Can American citizen live in Europe?
Andrew Mclaughlin
Published Mar 25, 2026
Can Americans Really Move to Europe? The simple answer is yes! U.S. citizens can travel to most European countries for up to 90 days (within 180 days) as a tourist. However, for those who want to live there, acquiring a long-term visa and/or residency permit is your ticket to calling Europe home.
Where can a US citizen live in Europe?
Cheapest Places to Live in Europe: In Western Europe, Spain and Portugal are two of the most affordable countries to live in. Your next best bet is to head east: Poland, Bulgaria and Georgia are great for expats and very budget-friendly.
Where can a U.S. citizen live in Europe?
How long can a U.S. citizen live in EU?
90 days
How Long Can a US Citizen Stay in Europe Without a Visa? Americans can stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days within a 180 day period. Please keep in mind that: The date of entry is considered as the first day of stay.
Is a U.S. citizen a EU resident?
If you are a U.S. citizen and wish to move to Europe, you may qualify for an EU residence permit, however, you will need to make sure that you meet eligibility requirements first. U.S. citizens can currently travel to the Schengen Area without the need of applying for a visa.
Is living in Europe better than the US?
Overall, Europe has a lower cost of living due to lower healthcare expenses, a weakening euro currency, and low inflation. Europeans, however, tend to pay more of their income to taxes, and average wages tend to be lower than in America.
What happens if I stay in Europe for more than 90 days?
The Schengen law states that you can’t stay in the Area more than 90 days. If you do, you’re subject to a fine and deportation. How that rule is enforced, though, varies greatly from one country to another. If you overstay by a few days or even a week, you’ll probably be OK.
What country can I move to as an American?
So, here’s our list of the top 10 best countries for Americans to move to in 2020:
- New Zealand. Cost of living: Similar or slightly more than the U.S. (think Seattle level prices for city living)
- Germany.
- Mexico.
- Australia.
- The Czech Republic (Czechia)
- Canada.
- Thailand.
- Singapore.
Where do I Live Now as an American in Europe?
More than 10 years later, I still live in Europe. There have been a lot of changes in that decade. I got married, had a daughter, and moved around, first to Amsterdam, then back to London, then to my husband’s native Cyprus where we’ve been for the last seven years.
How long can an US citizen live abroad?
The situation can be frustrating to U.S. citizens that live abroad for more than 3 months but less than 330 days.
Is there an amnesty for US citizens living abroad?
US citizens living abroad who are three or more years behind with their US tax filing can catch up under an IRS amnesty program called the Streamlined Procedure.
How is life in Europe compared to America?
Europe is a big place, and it would be impossible to make sweeping statements about a whole continent. But here’s what shocked me most about readjusting to American life. Sure, there are massive supermarkets in Europe, but without a car, I rarely made it to one and instead stuck to shopping in smaller shops near my house.