Can You Really Move Abroad? Here’s What I Found
I’ll admit it: I’ve daydreamed more than once about leaving it all behind to move somewhere new. A little cottage in Portugal’s Douro Valley where mornings begin with a quiet walk through vineyards. A villa perched above Dominica’s wild coastline, with waves crashing just beyond the balcony. Or a light-filled flat in Istanbul, tucked between spice markets and centuries-old mosques. These aren’t just Pinterest boards or passing fantasies; they’re real, possible dreams, especially now.
In 2025, more and more countries are opening their doors to global citizens through straightforward, well-structured pathways to citizenship. Some offer Golden Visas or fast-tracked programs tied to real estate investment, while others invite entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, or anyone willing to contribute to the local economy.
Whether you’re looking for a Plan B in uncertain times, aiming for a stronger passport, or simply craving a different pace of life, there are options out there. I spent hours reading fine print, comparing timelines, and digging into what each program really offers so you don’t have to. Here are 7 countries that make moving abroad a whole lot more attainable.
1. Portugal: Europe’s Golden Gateway
Portugal’s Golden Visa program continues to top the list for those dreaming of EU citizenship with flexibility. By investing €250,000–€500,000 in sectors such as cultural heritage, scientific research, or venture capital funds, you can gain residency and apply for citizenship after five years. What sets Portugal apart is that you don’t need to uproot your life; you only need to spend an average of seven days per year in the country.
For many expats, that means working remotely from Portugal when it suits them, while inching closer to an EU passport that unlocks travel and work opportunities across the Schengen Zone. Real estate used to be a common investment path, but as of recent updates, property investment is no longer eligible for the Golden Visa so look toward alternative options like funding Portuguese culture or tech innovation.
Why I love it: Portugal feels like the best of Europe without the overwhelm. Lisbon is cosmopolitan yet relaxed, Porto is creative and affordable, and the Algarve offers sun-soaked escapes all year. It’s a lifestyle upgrade, not just a legal process.
2. Dominica: A Caribbean Shortcut to Citizenship
Dominica has become a go-to for those seeking second citizenship without the complexities. For a one-time investment of $200,000 in a government-approved real estate project, you can begin your application almost immediately no need to relocate, take language tests, or wait for years.
Secret Bay, one of the island’s most luxurious eco-resorts, offers whole or fractional ownership that qualifies for the program. The government conducts due diligence, but the timeline is often as fast as 3–6 months.
Why it works: Dominica has no wealth, gift, inheritance, foreign income, or capital gains tax, making it a smart option for investors or retirees. Plus, you’ll gain visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including the Schengen Area and the UK.
Perk: No physical presence or residency requirement makes this one of the most hands-off programs in the world.
3. St. Kitts & Nevis: Island Life with a Strong Passport
Known as the birthplace of modern citizenship-by-investment programs, St. Kitts and Nevis offers a fast, flexible path to becoming a Caribbean citizen. You can donate $250,000 to the Sustainable Island State Contribution or opt for real estate investment either $325,000 in a government-approved development or $400,000+ in a private home.
Processing times are typically under six months, and unlike other countries, the program includes dependent family members in a single application.
Why consider it: St. Kitts & Nevis has a slightly more robust passport than Dominica, with visa-free access to over 150 countries. Its infrastructure, while still island-paced, includes international schools, upscale resorts, and a well-connected airport hub.
4. Vanuatu: Fastest (and Most Remote) Option
Located in the South Pacific near Australia and Fiji, Vanuatu is a small island nation known for its untouched natural beauty and unique approach to second citizenship. What makes it stand out in 2025 is the incredible speed of its Citizenship by Investment program. With a minimum donation of $130,000 to the government’s Development Support Program, applicants can receive their citizenship approval in as little as 60 to 90 days.
There’s no language test, no residency requirement, and no need to even visit the country during the application process. Vanuatu also has no income, inheritance, or capital gains tax, making it especially appealing to high-net-worth individuals and location-independent entrepreneurs.
Visa benefits: Vanuatu citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 100 countries, including the UK, Russia, and most Commonwealth nations.
Bonus: The islands are breathtaking think hidden blue lagoons, ancient volcanoes, black-sand beaches, and some of the world’s best scuba diving.
Heads up: It’s remote and lacks large-scale infrastructure. But if you value privacy and nature, Vanuatu delivers.
5. Turkey: Real Estate Meets Rich Culture
Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment program is straightforward and relatively fast. By purchasing property worth at least $400,000 and agreeing not to resell it for three years you can qualify for citizenship in just four to six months. The process is flexible, and you can include your spouse and children under 18 in the same application.
Popular cities for property purchases include Istanbul, with its cosmopolitan energy and thriving expat scene; Antalya, known for its beaches and resorts; and Fethiye, a laid-back coastal town that’s become a favorite among European retirees.
Why it’s attractive: Turkey straddles both Europe and Asia, offering an appealing lifestyle with excellent healthcare, vibrant markets, historical landmarks, and affordable living costs. Citizens can travel visa-free to over 110 countries, and dual citizenship is allowed.
Insider tip: Work with an experienced real estate agent who specializes in citizenship-qualifying properties to ensure compliance with the program.
6. United Arab Emirates: Golden Visa With Flexibility
The UAE’s long-term residency program has made it easier than ever for foreign investors and skilled professionals to plant roots in the Middle East. While full citizenship is still rare and highly selective, the 5- and 10-year renewable Golden Visas provide a secure, long-term alternative.
To qualify through investment, individuals must contribute around 2 million AED (~$544,000) into accredited real estate or investment funds. Additional routes are available for entrepreneurs, researchers, and those with exceptional talent in areas like medicine, AI, or the arts.
What makes it different: There’s no need for a local sponsor, and Golden Visa holders enjoy privileges such as sponsoring family members, opening businesses, and staying outside the UAE for extended periods without losing residency.
Economic advantage: The UAE has no income tax, and Dubai in particular offers a global lifestyle with luxury living, cutting-edge infrastructure, and strategic geographic positioning.
7. Greece: Mediterranean Living Through Investment
Greece’s Golden Visa program has become one of the most popular in Europe for those seeking a balance of affordability, residency rights, and lifestyle appeal. With a minimum real estate investment of €250,000, applicants receive a five-year renewable residency permit that allows them to live in Greece and travel throughout the Schengen Area.
While citizenship requires seven years of residency, there’s no minimum stay requirement to maintain your permit, making it perfect for part-time expats and holiday homeowners.
Where to invest: Athens offers a thriving startup scene and urban lifestyle, while the islands (like Santorini, Crete, or Corfu) provide postcard-perfect living by the sea.
Why it’s appealing: Greece combines access to European travel with a rich cultural heritage, Mediterranean climate, and low cost of living compared to other EU nations.
Pro tip: Purchasing property in up-and-coming neighborhoods or tourist-friendly areas can also be a savvy long-term investment.
What to Know Before You Apply
- Hire a lawyer. These programs are complex and require due diligence.
- Know the taxes. Some countries have favorable tax systems; others may not.
- Check for scams. Always go through government-approved channels.
Final Thoughts
Second citizenship isn’t just for the ultra-wealthy or influencers anymore. If you have the means to invest and the dream to move abroad, 2025 is offering more open doors than ever before.
Would I take the plunge? Maybe. But now, at least, I know where I’d start.
