Following Donald Trump’s victory in the US presidential election, we’re witnessing a significant increase in Americans interested in relocating to Europe. This trend is creating a specific dynamic in real estate markets, job opportunities, and investment possibilities that’s important to monitor for understanding the future development of the European economy.
Tightening Rules for European Citizenship
While American interest in European citizenship grows, many countries are restricting or canceling their programs:
- Italy has tightened its ancestry-based citizenship rules – now only possible if you have Italian parents or grandparents (previously one could trace ancestors back to 1861)
- Ireland recorded a record 32,000 citizenship applications from Americans last year, with numbers continuing to rise this year
- The UK has increased income thresholds for visas and extended the time needed to obtain permanent residency
- Spain has completely abolished its “golden visas” for investors
- The EU legally declared Malta’s golden passport program illegal
Creative Alternatives for Moving to Europe
With traditional paths to European citizenship becoming restricted, Americans are seeking other methods:
- Digital nomad visas – established during the pandemic – are now experiencing a renaissance
- Retirement visas for those who can demonstrate sufficient monthly income
- Work visas, especially in science and research, where European institutions are actively attracting American talent
Growing Interest in UK Employment
Britain is becoming an attractive destination for American professionals:
- Nearly 10% of foreign clicks on British job listings come from the US (highest share since Q2 2023)
- Year-on-year increase in American interest in British positions by 2.4 percentage points – the largest of any country
- Primary interest is in positions in scientific research, development, and management
Causes and Motivations
The American-European migration trend is driven by several factors:
- Concerns about political developments in the US under the Trump administration
- Significant cuts in federal funding for research, education, and infrastructure
- Reduced academic freedom and instability in the scientific environment
- Concerns about growing far-right group activity in some American cities
Europe as a New Opportunity
European countries recognize the potential of this situation:
- Several EU countries (including France, Germany, and others) have called on Innovation Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva to actively attract American talent
- Universities and research institutions across Europe are opening positions for American scientists
- Data from Deel shows a 16% increase in the number of Americans employed by European companies between January and April
Investment Perspective
This demographic shift presents an interesting investment perspective:
- Growing demand for real estate in popular European locations
- Increased interest in advisory services (tax, legal, relocation)
- Opportunities for companies offering services related to relocation and adaptation
- Potential for growth in sectors that can benefit from the influx of skilled workers
Although this trend is just beginning, its long-term impacts could significantly influence the European economy and create new opportunities for informed investors who can recognize the potential of developing areas early enough.
