Ever visited a place that made you stop in your tracks? That was Alicante for me. I decided to move abroad to Spain (Barcelona) last year, Sept. 2024. Even though I was already living in Spain, I recently took a recent trip there. The moment I saw that postcard-perfect turquoise water and wandered through the charming old town, I felt like I had stepped into a whole new country. I have read on a lot of blogs and heard from a lot of locals that Alicante is “ugly”. IMO, this is farrrr from the truth. I LOVED Alicante, I think its highly underrated. I would move here no doubt.
That’s one of the lesser-talked about gifts of moving abroad: even a two-hour train ride can drop you into a completely different culture, with different architecture, food, cultural festivals and events, lifestyle…the list goes on. Literally, every month or weekend when you have the opportunity to travel – even within the country you settled – holds the possibility of discovering somewhere that takes your breath away.
And guess what? This kind of life isn’t just for the lucky few anymore. More U.S. citizens than ever are choosing to move abroad-to work remotely, accept jobs overseas, or just take a break from the typical grind. Whether you want a digital nomad visa, a remote work-from-anywhere role so that you can digital nomad around the globe, or a chance to start fresh somewhere inspiring, this guide provides tips to help you get there.
Why, More and More, U.S. Citizens Are Choosing to Work Abroad
In recent years, we’ve seen a massive shift in how Americans think about work and lifestyle. Remote work has gone from a fringe perk to a mainstream norm. Suddenly, your job might not care where you’re working from – as long as the Wi-Fi is strong and deadlines are met.
Another factor? Political tension and uncertainty. Many Americans are feeling frustrated by the current administration and the decay of democracy, which to me personally is shocking and downright frightening. I know many fellow U.S. citizens share this sentiment. The political climate is pushing more people to consider a fresh start elsewhere – where they can feel safer, more aligned with their values, and hopeful about the future.
Other common reasons U.S. citizens are moving abroad:
- Digital nomad visas are opening new doors
- Cost of living is often lower overseas
- A chance to prioritize quality of life, adventure, and purpose
Today, people in the States and elsewhere, are rethinking what success looks like – and realizing that it doesn’t have to mean staying in the same place or even the same country.
Best Visas to Move Abroad and Work Remotely
One of the most common questions I get as a Work Abroad Specialist is: How do I legally live and work abroad as a U.S. Citizen? Great news – you have options.
Digital Nomad Visas for U.S. Citizens
Digital nomad visas allow U.S. Citizens to live abroad while working remotely for a foreign company. You’ll typically need proof of income, criminal record check, and a few – or many – supporting documents.
Popular options include:
- Spain: With gorgeous cities like Alicante and Valencia, this visa is great for non-EU remote workers.
- Portugal: Affordable and warm, with a strong expat community and EU access.
- Costa Rica: Year-long renewable visa with minimal red tape (can apply online).
- Croatia: Budget-friendly and beautiful, especially for solo nomads. Can also apply online.
- Mexico: The Temporary Residence Visa isn’t a nomad visa per se, but it’s a top choice for foreigners wanting to stay 1-4 years, with the possibility of gaining permanent residency. But heads up: the minimum income requirement is higher than other destinations.
Pro Tip: Visa rules change often – check official government sites or speak with an immigration lawyer before you apply.
How to Work Abroad as a U.S. citizen: Career Paths That Work
There’s no one-size-fits-all way to move abroad and work. Here are some of the most common (and realistic) routes U.S. citizens take:
1. Keep Your Remote Job and Move
Already working remotely? Perfect. The easiest move abroad path is to simply take that job overseas.
What you’ll need:
- Confirm your employer allows work from abroad
- Apply for a digital nomad visa
- Handle taxes and logistics (pro tip: work with someone who’s done it before)
Best for: Tech workers, marketers, consultants, designers, writers
Check out trusted remote job boards like We Work Remotely to find new roles. Search for keywords such as “remote jobs” on LinkedIn under posts to find literally TONS of resources and remote job boards – but you will have to sift through the weeds to find what is legit / which sites fit your career the best.
2. Find a Local Job Abroad
If you want deeper cultural immersion, a local job might be your best bet. Think: international companies, teaching English, hospitality, or NGOs. Sometimes, large companies allow international transfers once you have worked for the company for at least 1-2 years (I have done this!)
Great for: Americans open to relocation and cultural exchange
Some countries even offer job seeker visas (like Germany and the Netherlands) to help you search in person.
3. Freelance or Start a Business Abroad
Self-employed? You can build a location-independent business and apply for self-employment visas in countries such as those previously listed.
Best for: Coaches, creatives, consultants who can freelance, and digital product sellers
4. Study-to-Work Route
I personally think this route is highly underrated. It is not as intimidating or resource-intensive as people often think. You can choose a cheap master’s degree in a country you’d like to live in – such as Spain. In Spain, you can get a job search authorization that allows you to stay in the country up to 24 MONTHS, you can learn the language for studying (essential to find a local job in Spain), and work 30 hours a week to support yourself. Many other countries have similar options.
Move Abroad With Confidence: The Emotional Prep Matters Too
Here’s the part most blogs skip: moving abroad isn’t just paperwork. It’s a mindset shift.
You’ll probably face questions like:
- Will I be lonely?
- What if I pick the wrong country?
- Can I actually afford this?
I get it. I’ve been there. I help my clients navigate not just the visa and job hunt, but the emotions of starting over. Because once you start moving forward, it gets easier.
Ready to Start Your Move Abroad Journey?
If your dream is to move abroad and work remotely or land a job overseas, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
I’m Megan, a Work Abroad Specialist and longtime working nomad. I help people like you clarify career goals, choose the right country, prepare your CV and LinkedIn, network internationally, and emotionally prep for the big move. Whether you’re ready to relocate or just want to explore the idea – I’d love to help you make it real. I work with clients in a bespoke manner, tailoring my coaching to each individual’s personal situation, needs, preferences.
Book a free 1:1 Work Abroad Exploration Call: Let’s chat about your goals and map out your personalized plan. Schedule your call.
You can learn more about me here.
Let’s build your dream life abroad, one step at a time 😊😊😊