How to Move to Another Country from America: A Step-by-Step Guide

Thinking about leaving the U.S. and starting fresh in a new country — but not sure where to begin?
You’re not alone. Thousands of Americans dream of moving abroad, but the logistics can feel overwhelming. This post walks you through how to move to another country from America — step by step — even if you’re starting from scratch.

Step 1: Decide you’re actually going to move abroad and clarify your ‘why’

Most people talk about moving abroad for years. But if you want it to happen, you have to decide you’re really doing it. It may sound silly, but our mindset on moving abroad matters. I said I was going to move abroad to London for a couple years, but I didn’t decide I was actually going to do it until 2 years after I kept saying it. I had to get to the point where I was determined to make it happen and KNEW it was something I was going to do, not just something where the possibility of it made me excited. Consciously making the decision that you’re actually going to move abroad matters.

You also need to get clear on why you’re moving abroad as it will help you stay focused along the way. Is it for the adventure, a career opportunity, better education, political reasons, etc.

It will also be important to get clear on:

• Why am I moving? (Lifestyle, career, burnout, cost of living?)
• Do I want to go short-term or long-term?
• Am I working, studying, freelancing, retiring?
• Am I going solo, with a partner, or with family?

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Step 2: Choose a country

You don’t need to pick your “forever country.” You just need a good first country.

Start by listing what matters to you:

• Language
• Weather
• Cost of living
• Work opportunities
• Expat community
• Visa options

Start broad (e.g. Western Europe), then narrow it down to a few countries. Use tools like:

• Numbeo
• Reddit (/r/IWantOut)
• Expat YouTubers and blogs

You can also take my free quiz to help figure out which city in Europe matches what you are looking for:
👉 jordangiberson.com/quiz

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Step 3: Choose a visa path

You can’t just move — you need a visa. Your visa defines what you can do and how long you can stay.

Common visas for Americans include:

• Student visas (for degree programs)
• Work visas (job required first)
• Freelance/self-employment visas (e.g. Spain, Portugal, Germany)
• Digital nomad visas (e.g. Portugal, Croatia)
• Passive income/retirement visas
• Family reunification visas

Check official government websites for current rules. Don’t wait until you feel ready — start researching early.

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Step 4: Create a timeline

Moving abroad takes time. Planning ahead keeps things manageable.

Here’s an example of a 6–12 month timeline:

• 6–9 months out: Choose country + research visas
• 5–7 months out: Create a budget + network
• 4–6 months out: Apply for visa, downsize
• 3–5 months out: Look at housing + logistics
• 2–4 months out: Finalize flights + finances
• 1–2 months out: Pack + prepare to go

You don’t have to move fast — you just need a plan of when you accomplish what so you can actually move abroad when you want to.

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Step 5: Budget and plan finances

You don’t need to be rich, but you do need a plan.

Budget for:

• Visa fees
• Flights
• Rent + deposit
• Health insurance
• Emergency fund (3–6 months of expenses)
• Optional: Language classes or local transportation

Start saving now in a dedicated “move abroad” account.
Check cost-of-living estimates using Numbeo.

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Step 6: Gather documents

Visas require paperwork — and some documents take weeks to get.

Prepare early:

• Passport (valid for at least 6–12 months)
• Birth certificate
• Background check
• Diplomas and degrees (translated if needed)
• Proof of income/funds
• Health insurance (if needed for the visa you are getting)

Organize digital and physical copies in one place. A Google Drive folder works great to keep copies.

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Step 7: Find housing

Start with a temporary rental like Airbnb or a short-term furnished flat. Once you’re on the ground, you can find a long-term place that actually fits your needs.

Use local rental sites or expat Facebook groups. Don’t commit to long-term housing before you arrive unless you really know the area.

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Step 8: Book the move

Once your visa is approved, book your flight. From there:

• Ship essentials or pack light
• Set up international phone coverage
• Notify your bank and credit card companies
• Say goodbye to friends and family
• Join expat Facebook groups for your destination so you can connect with people once you get there

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Step 9: Settle in and adjust

Once you arrive:

• Register with local authorities (if required)
• Open a bank account
• Get a SIM card or local phone plan
• Take language classes
• Find community through coworking spaces, events, meetups, networking events, Facebook groups, etc.

Make sure to keep track of your visa’s expiration and look into renewal or long-term residency options if you plan to stay.

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Final thoughts

You don’t need to be fluent in another language or have everything figured out.
You just need a plan and the determination to follow through.

So there you have it! This is how to move to another country from America — step by step.

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Curious about life abroad? Don’t miss these related posts:

How to Deal With People Who Aren’t Supportive of Your Move Abroad

How to Move to Another Country Permanently