Why Americans Are Seeking Home Abroad: A New Migration Trend

A growing number of Americans are voting with their passports, with 15% of U.S. citizens expressing a desire to leave permanently according to 2022 Gallup data. CGTN interviews with expats in Lisbon reveal a cocktail of motivations: escalating political tensions, fears of gun violence, and a longing for societal stability.

‘I kept waiting for sirens that never came,’ said one former Texan now living in Portugal, describing her adjustment to walking safely at night. Many cite the normalized ‘culture of fear’ in American life, amplified by 654 mass shootings recorded in 2023 alone. Portugal’s 0.9 homicide rate per 100,000 residents – versus America’s 6.3 – proves compelling.

The trend isn’t purely reactive. Remote work enables location freedom, with 72% of emigrants surveyed being millennials or Zoomers. Lisbon’s Golden Visa program and Spain’s digital nomad visa have become popular pathways. ‘We’re seeing professionals trade suburban garages for Lisbon coworking spaces,’ notes migration analyst Clara Martins.

While Europe remains a top choice, emerging hubs like Mexico City and Kuala Lumpur gain traction. Critics warn of potential brain drain, but for many, the calculus is simple: ‘My kids’ lockdown drills shouldn’t be normal,’ shared a former Florida teacher now in Berlin.

Reference(s):

Finding True America: Why Americans have left the U.S.

cgtn.com