Are you ready for a change of scenery that lasts a bit longer than typical vacation? You aren’t alone. Many people are choosing to live abroad for longer periods of time now. Some are choosing the digital nomad lifestyle, while others want to spend more time in dream destinations during their retirement.
There are several ways to accomplish this. The most common is to get the appropriate visa to live in your country of choice. But this is easier said than done. Visa approvals can take a long time, and they don’t always give you the flexibility to travel when you wish.
Another option is visa-free travel. Citizens and nationals of countries like the United States, Australia, Canada, and South Korea can visit many countries around the globe with no visa at all for up to a specific amount of time.
The trouble with this is that the specified time limit is usually three months or less. For instance, the Schengen area of Europe allows Americans and many others to visit for up to 90 days without a visa. But if you want to stay longer, a visa is required.
However, there are some countries that allow for longer stays without a visa, and they can be excellent options for those looking to live abroad long term while maintaining the flexibility to travel other places on a whim.
For the purposes of this article we will look at destinations that offer long term visa-free entry options to American citizens, but others may be available depending on where you’re from.
Long-Term Visa-Free Destinations for Americans
Indefinite Stay
- The Marshall Islands – This archipelago in the Pacific Ocean was a US territory until the 1970s, and still uses the US dollar today. It’s starting to become a popular tropical vacation destination, but is still affordable. Americans can visit and stay as long as they wish, no visa required.
Up to One Year
- Albania – This gorgeous European country is fast becoming popular with digital nomads, and it’s easy to see why. The outstanding mountain scenery, friendly people, and low cost of living combined with the ease of entry make it a perfect spot to stay long term.
Up to 6 Months
- Barbados – The jewel of the Caribbean has a bit of something for everyone, from romantic beaches to wild watersports.
- Bermuda – A British colony, Bermuda is perfect for those who enjoy beach resorts and every amenity surrounded by the beauty of the Caribbean.
- Canada – It should come as no surprise that the United States' neighbor to the north allows Americans to visit for up to six months without a visa.
- Dominica – This tiny Caribbean nation is a beach lover’s dream, with lush rainforests and quaint villages.
- Jamaica – You may have vacationed here before, but you can actually stay for up to half a year without a visa in one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful places.
- Mauritius – This small nation off the coast of Africa is picturesque, affordable, and peaceful. Nature lovers are likely to want to spend the full six months here.
- Mexico – Long a hub for expats from the US, Mexico remains popular due to its low cost and variety of destinations.
- St. Lucia – Gorgeous Caribbean beach views, volcanic scenery, and charming towns define St. Lucia, making it a perfect place to live for up to six months.
- United Kingdom – One of the world’s top tourist destinations can be your home for half the year. Though London isn’t cheap, many other parts of the country can be quite affordable.
Up to 4 Months
- Fiji – Want to take an extended vacation or work abroad for a while? You might as well do it one of the most beautiful places on earth. Fiji is the definition of an idyllic tropical paradise.
- Tunisia – Tunisia gives you the opportunity to live for a short time on the Mediterranean coast without the costs (and visa) of Europe. Four months is plenty of time to explore and get some work done.
Insurance Options for Longer Stays
When traveling or living abroad for a longer period of time, it’s incredibly important that you have appropriate medical insurance to cover you in case of any health emergencies.
For many international travelers going abroad for a year or less, travel medical insurance can be an excellent option. It can provide coverage for emergency medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, return of mortal remains, and even trip interruption.
For those staying abroad longer, a better option may be expatriate health insurance. This is annually renewable major medical insurance for people residing outside their home country, typically for a year or longer. It can provide a high medical policy maximum and many of the benefits of travel medical insurance, as well as optional benefits that can include preexisting conditions, dental, maternity, life insurance and more depending on the plan.
The right coverage for your longer trip will depend on a variety of factors such as where you’re going, how long your trip will be, and what requirements the destination country may have for health insurance coverage. In any case, be sure to take the time to do some research, and don’t hesitate to contact us for guidance.