More American families are considering relocation abroad - not merely as an adventure, but for access to better healthcare, lower living costs, safer communities, and improved work-life balance. This trend is particularly strong among younger parents, who often cite economic uncertainty and social disconnection as major motivators.
According to recent Gallup data, 17% of Americans reported wanting to move permanently to another country in 2023, matching a record high, and this has risen further to around 21% by mid‑2024. This marks a significant increase from approximately 10% in 2011. At the same time, a survey found that only 66% of American adults feel at least somewhat close to people in their own country, well below the median of 83% in a group of 24 nations. Similarly, just 54% feel connected to their local community, compared to a global median of 78%.
However, moving abroad as a family involves far more than a change of scenery. You must consider everything: local education systems and school enrollment, healthcare accessibility, visa options and residency rules, cross-border tax implications, and emotional adjustments for children. In this comprehensive guide, we explore all the key questions American families should ask—helping you evaluate lifestyle preferences, legal requirements, financial preparation, and practical steps for relocating abroad with confidence.
For many American families, the decision to move abroad is not sudden—it's the result of mounting concerns around quality of life, cost of living, safety, and broader social values. In recent years, inflation, housing affordability, healthcare expenses, political polarization, and concerns around gun violence and education have become increasingly influential in pushing families to explore life outside the United States.
A detailed Harvard Business Review article from July 2023 notes a rise in Americans, especially younger professionals with families, moving abroad to find more stability and fulfillment. The article explains that many are seeking countries with stronger social support systems, more accessible education and healthcare, and a more predictable cost of living. This trend has only increased over the past several years, as remote work and dual citizenship options have made this more attainable than ever.
One of the most cited motivations is healthcare. The U.S. consistently ranks among the most expensive healthcare systems in the world. In contrast, countries like Portugal, Spain, and Germany offer high-quality, universal healthcare at significantly lower costs. This is particularly important for families with young children or elderly parents.
Looking to understand how rising U.S. healthcare costs are influencing Americans to move abroad? Read our blog on Escaping Healthcare Inflation: How Investment Migration and Geoarbitrage Can Lower Medical Costs for Americans to see why affordable global healthcare is a major driver for relocation.
Education is another factor driving relocation. Many American families are drawn to countries that provide multilingual, globally-oriented education systems with lower tuition fees or strong public options. For example, the IB (International Baccalaureate) system is available in numerous countries and offers a globally recognized curriculum.
Then there's work-life balance. Countries across Europe and parts of Asia offer generous parental leave, shorter workweeks, and a stronger focus on personal well-being. These benefits appeal to parents who feel overstretched by the American "always-on" work culture.
That said, families should be prepared for a host of lifestyle changes. Moving abroad often involves adjusting to a different pace of life, new languages, unfamiliar healthcare systems, and unique school enrollment processes. While these changes can be enriching and even transformative, they require planning and adaptability, especially when relocating with children.
There are also emotional shifts to anticipate. Many families report stronger bonding after relocating, citing more time spent together and shared experiences in navigating new cultures. But they also acknowledge the challenges of homesickness, cultural adjustment, and navigating bureaucracies in foreign languages.
Relocation is both a logistical undertaking and a profound life shift. For families who prioritize values like safety, healthcare, education, and a healthier lifestyle balance, moving abroad may be the right answer but it requires both clarity and commitment.
Relocating internationally is more than a logistical project. It's an emotional transition that touches every member of the family in deeply personal ways. While organizing paperwork, housing, and finances is essential, preparing emotionally is just as critical to a successful move.
According to Allianz Care, one of the biggest hurdles for expat families is adapting to cultural change and the emotional disconnection that can come with leaving familiar surroundings. Children, in particular, may struggle with the loss of friendships, school transitions, or anxiety about language barriers. Emotional preparation should begin early. Open conversations about the move, involving children in decisions where possible, and helping them research the new country can foster a sense of inclusion and reduce fear of the unknown.
In parallel, parents must also prepare themselves. Feelings of isolation, culture shock, or career uncertainty in a new environment are not uncommon. Reportedly, adults often downplay their own emotions during a move, focusing instead on logistics or their children's well-being. However, acknowledging and addressing your own emotional needs—through mental health support, connecting with expat communities, or building a structured daily routine—can improve the entire family’s transition.
Logistically, families should begin planning several months in advance. This includes not just securing housing and schools, but also creating continuity such as transferring medical records, identifying new doctors, researching school curricula, and ensuring financial systems are in place. Some families even create farewell rituals, such as hosting a goodbye gathering, creating memory boxes, or documenting your favorite local experiences. This can provide emotional closure before the departure.
A successful international relocation, therefore, rests on a dual foundation: careful logistical preparation and empathetic emotional readiness. Families who treat both aspects with equal seriousness often report a smoother transition and a more fulfilling experience abroad.
Relocating internationally is a major shift, not just for adults but especially for children. A new country often means a new language, unfamiliar customs, different educational systems, and a whole new social environment. These transitions, if not handled with care and empathy, can deeply impact a child’s emotional well-being and academic performance. Here's how parents can actively support their children through each stage of the adjustment process.
Children need to feel involved, not sidelined. Start early conversations about the move by framing it positively while also creating space for concerns. Involving children in the moving process like letting them help pack or research the new country, gives them a sense of agency and reduces feelings of helplessness.
Encourage your child to express their emotions, even the negative ones. Make it clear that it’s okay to feel sad or worried, and that these emotions are valid and temporary. Younger kids may need help naming their feelings, while teenagers may require more private, reflective space and reassurance about friendships and education.
Maintaining continuity through familiar routines, such as bedtime rituals, family meals, or weekend traditions can provide a comforting sense of normalcy amid change. Creating a "transition plan" is also recommended by Equity Languages, which suggests doing school drop-ins, neighborhood tours, or playdates in the new city before the official move, if possible. This soft exposure reduces anxiety and helps children visualize their new daily life.
It’s also wise to keep expectations realistic. Most children go through a version of the culture shock cycle, starting with excitement (the “honeymoon phase”), followed by disorientation, and eventually moving toward adjustment and acceptance. Understanding this emotional arc allows parents to respond with more patience and perspective.
The educational system may differ significantly from what your child is used to in terms of curriculum, language of instruction, teaching methods, or class size. Some schools are more structured; others encourage independence and creativity. To bridge the gap:
According to Esti School, children thrive academically when parents act as advocates, communicating with teachers, tracking assignments, and ensuring emotional support is available when academic struggles arise. Asking for orientation sessions, buddy systems, or counseling support at the new school can also help.
One of the hardest parts of relocating is leaving behind friendships. But building new ones is critical to a child’s emotional recovery. Encourage participation in group activities like sports, art classes, or hobby clubs. These provide both structure and opportunity for social connection in a low-pressure setting.
Parents can also arrange informal playdates or join local expat parenting groups to help both themselves and their kids find new friends. Making friends across cultures teaches children empathy, openness, and curiosity skills that will benefit them for a lifetime.
If your child struggles to connect, consider peer mentoring programs or culturally sensitive therapists who specialize in working with third-culture kids.
If your child doesn’t speak the local language, they may feel isolated initially. However, immersion through school, media, and community is usually the fastest and most effective route to learning. Many schools offer EAL (English as an Additional Language) or native-language bridging support.
Encourage your child to learn the language by watching local TV shows, reading children’s books, or using apps like Duolingo. But don’t push too hard, language learning should feel empowering, not overwhelming.
Cultural differences such as classroom behavior, holiday customs, or how children address elders can also be confusing at first. Help them navigate this by talking openly about local traditions and modeling respectful curiosity yourself.
Even with the best preparation, some children may develop signs of emotional stress such as withdrawal, anger, loss of appetite, or regression in younger children. These may be normal adjustment symptoms, but if they persist, seeking professional help is important.
The Taylor Irby Coaching blog offers advice on fostering emotional resilience through connectedness, predictability, and self-awareness. Practicing gratitude rituals, keeping a journal, or simply talking openly can help children process their feelings in a healthy way.
Don’t forget to acknowledge and celebrate progress, no matter how small. Whether it’s ordering food in a new language, making a friend, or getting through a tough week at school, these are moments that deserve recognition.
Create space for positive reflection. Ask your child regularly what they enjoyed or discovered recently. This builds a growth mindset and shifts focus from what they’ve lost to what they’re gaining.
Adapting to a new country isn’t just about logistics, it’s about identity, belonging, and emotional safety. Children who are supported with empathy, structure, and encouragement often emerge from the experience more adaptable, open-minded, and globally aware. With the right tools and attention, the move can become one of the most enriching experiences of their lives and yours.
While the cost of living is often the first thing families consider when planning an international move, there’s much more to financial readiness than comparing rent or grocery prices. For American families relocating abroad, a successful transition depends on understanding the hidden financial layers that go well beyond daily expenses. From banking logistics to long-term retirement planning, the following key areas are critical to address before taking the leap.
When your income is in one currency and your expenses are in another, exchange rate fluctuations can make a big difference to your real-world spending power. A strong dollar might help initially, but currencies can swing dramatically due to political instability or inflation in your new country. Consider using multi-currency accounts or tools like currency hedging to protect your finances. The Schwab guide on moving abroad emphasizes evaluating how long-term shifts in purchasing power may affect your savings strategy and retirement security.
Opening a local bank account might seem simple, but in many countries it can take weeks and require residency proof, tax ID numbers, or job contracts. Additionally, U.S. citizens face restrictions under FATCA (Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act), which can make some foreign banks hesitant to onboard American clients. As suggested by Worth.com, many expats choose to maintain U.S.-based bank accounts for investment purposes while using local banks for everyday spending. Wise families often establish financial access in both countries to avoid being cut off in emergencies or regulatory delays.
Even when living abroad, U.S. citizens are still required to file federal taxes annually. Depending on income levels, you may also need to file IRS Form 8938 for foreign assets and FBAR (Foreign Bank Account Report) if you have more than $10,000 in overseas accounts. Fortunately, the U.S. has tax treaties with many countries to avoid double taxation, and tools like the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) can reduce your taxable income. However, as Abacus Wealth warns, the complexity of international tax filings requires expert help, ideally from a CPA with expat experience.
Your current insurance plan may not cover medical costs abroad, so it’s important to explore global health insurance or local private insurance options in your new country. Also consider coverage for dental, vision, medical evacuation, and pre-existing conditions. Life insurance policies issued in the U.S. may not be valid or easy to claim from abroad. Review property and liability insurance if you're shipping household goods or renting property overseas. It's also wise to prepare for out-of-pocket expenses during the transition period when you may not be covered by either system.
If you’re moving with children, your choice of school -public, private, or international , will dramatically affect your family’s budget. Some expat families may need to pay tuition, uniforms, transportation, or language tutoring fees. Don’t forget the cost of after-school programs, which may not be subsidized abroad. In many cases, families must prepay for a full year of schooling, which requires advance budgeting.
Will your retirement savings continue to grow and remain accessible from abroad? U.S. citizens must consider whether their 401(k), IRA, or Roth IRA will be taxed when withdrawn internationally. You also need to evaluate if your time abroad will count toward Social Security eligibility and whether you can collect benefits while living outside the U.S. The Schwab article underscores that families must revisit their retirement timelines and ensure their long-term income strategies are compatible with cross-border living.
Will you rent out your U.S. home or sell it before moving? What are the capital gains implications? Will you buy a home abroad or lease? Real estate transactions involve not only taxes and legal fees but also property management challenges from afar. For those keeping property in the U.S., hiring a trustworthy property manager or using rental platforms may be necessary and it all adds up.
Relocation is full of surprises, from visa delays and job transitions to family health emergencies. Before moving, set aside 6–12 months’ worth of living expenses in an accessible account. This buffer gives your family room to adapt without financial pressure. Some expats also keep emergency funds in both currencies to avoid timing issues with exchange rates or transfer delays.
By addressing these less visible financial considerations ahead of time, families can reduce stress, avoid costly mistakes, and feel more confident stepping into their new life abroad. If you’re still unsure about where to begin, working with a fee-only financial advisor who specializes in cross-border planning can be a game-changer.
Moving abroad as a family is exciting, but it also comes with complex decisions that go far beyond choosing a new house or school. For many Americans, the idea of starting fresh in a foreign country can quickly shift from thrilling to overwhelming when unexpected issues arise. Below are some of the most common pitfalls families face and how to avoid them with careful planning and realistic expectations.
Many families fall into the trap of viewing their new country through the lens of a tourist. While short visits may be filled with sunshine, beautiful landscapes, and charming restaurants, daily life abroad includes grocery runs, utility bills, commutes, school schedules, and language barriers. This contrast can be jarring if you’re unprepared.
Avoid it: Before relocating, spend time understanding what everyday life looks like in your chosen destination. Connect with expat families on platforms like Internations or Facebook expat groups to ask about the real, day-to-day experience.
Many families underestimate how expensive it can be to settle abroad. Between visa processing, international school fees, health insurance, security deposits, and furnishing a new home, costs can spiral quickly. Currency fluctuations and unfamiliar tax systems also catch many newcomers off guard.
Avoid it: Create a detailed post-move budget. Include hidden costs like temporary accommodation, school enrollment fees, or healthcare waiting periods. The IRS also requires American citizens to report global income, so speak with a cross-border tax advisor to understand your obligations.
While English is widely spoken in many parts of the world, assuming it will be sufficient for daily life is a mistake. Public offices, medical services, and local schools may operate primarily in the local language especially outside major cities.
Avoid it: Learn the basics of the native language before moving. Even simple phrases can help with integration and reduce feelings of dependency or isolation. Encourage your children to learn too, younger ones often adapt fastest and can help the whole family integrate.
Parents often focus on logistics and legalities, forgetting that relocation can be emotionally turbulent for children. Uprooting them from familiar surroundings, friends, and routines can trigger anxiety, especially if they're not included in the process.
Avoid it: Involve kids early. Let them help research schools or neighborhoods, and talk openly about the move. Once settled, prioritize social activities like sports or clubs where they can build friendships. According to Smoozitive, this kind of early emotional preparation can ease the transition dramatically. The article highlights how including kids in decisions like researching schools or choosing neighborhoods gives them a sense of control and helps reduce feelings of uncertainty. It also emphasizes the importance of emotional preparations such as openly discussing the move, validating their concerns, and giving them time to say goodbye. This proactive approach can significantly smoothen the adjustment period once the family settles in the new country. By creating a sense of ownership and emotional security, children are better equipped to embrace the changes ahead.
Many families try to recreate their U.S. home abroad — shipping furniture, appliances, and kitchen gadgets they may not even need. Not only is international shipping expensive, but many items won’t fit local voltage standards, sizes, or lifestyles.
Avoid it: Focus on essentials and sentimental items. Research what’s easily available in your new country. You’ll likely find high-quality local alternatives — and decluttering before your move can actually make the experience feel lighter and more freeing.
From visa renewals to residency registration, school documentation to local health insurance missing even one deadline can cause major disruptions. Many Americans assume once their visa is approved, the hard part is over.
Avoid it: Make a document timeline for each family member. Keep digital and physical copies of all applications, ID cards, and translations. Rules vary by country, and failing to register with local authorities on time can lead to fines or even deportation. Some families find it helpful to work with a local immigration consultant or relocation agency for this step.
Moving abroad can feel lonely, especially in the early months. Without extended family or longtime friends nearby, it’s easy to feel isolated, especially for the parent who isn’t working full-time or who takes on most of the family’s adjustment duties.
Avoid it: Proactively join local communities whether through expat groups, school parent associations, or hobby clubs. Many cities host events for newcomers. Even volunteering or signing up for a language exchange can create organic social connections that help a new place feel like home.
Immigration rules are complex, and what works for a single digital nomad may not be suitable for a family with two school-age kids. Misinterpreting visa timelines, residency rights, or work authorizations can lead to serious problems later.
Avoid it: Choose the right visa based on your long-term goals. Whether it’s a family reunification visa, a digital nomad visa, or an investor residency permit, make sure it allows for school enrollment, healthcare access, and spousal employment. Immigration Diligence offers tailored support for Americans exploring citizenship by investment or ancestry-based immigration routes. We provide personalized guidance for Americans pursuing citizenship by investment or ancestry-based immigration to ensure every step aligns with your family’s future.
Get in touch today to explore the best-fit pathway for your move abroad.
Relocating abroad with your family is not just a change of scenery — it’s a change in systems, habits, expectations, and mindset. The process can feel overwhelming, but most of the major mistakes are avoidable with the right information, a support network, and clear, long-term thinking.
Instead of aiming for a perfect transition, aim for a flexible and informed one. That’s what builds not just a successful move, but a truly meaningful new life abroad.
Relocating as a family is more than a logistical move — it’s a major life decision that requires careful planning, legal clarity, and a long-term vision. The right visa or residency pathway can open doors to quality education, healthcare, career opportunities, and a safer, more fulfilling life abroad.
For American families seeking smoother transitions and long-term stability, Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs offer a secure and strategic route. Countries like Greece, Portugal, and Italy allow you to invest in real estate or government funds in exchange for residency or citizenship with benefits that extend to your spouse and dependent children.
Many Americans are unaware they may already qualify for citizenship abroad through their ancestry. If you have parents, grandparents, or sometimes great-grandparents born in countries like Italy, Ireland, Poland, Portugal or Greece, you might be eligible to apply for citizenship by descent.
Immigration Diligence offers full support in tracing your lineage, preparing your documentation, and liaising with foreign embassies, making the process efficient and stress-free.
At Immigration Diligence, we don’t just process applications, we create tailored immigration plans for American families ready to thrive abroad. From document gathering to legal submissions and embassy coordination, we take care of the entire process so you can focus on your future.
Ready to find out which pathway suits your family best?
Speak with an expert today and take the first step toward building a new life overseas with confidence.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. You should consult with a qualified professional before making decisions based on this information