Legal Residency Options by Country (Best for U.S., U.K., and Canadian Citizens)
If you’ve been dreaming about moving abroad and actually staying long enough to unpack your suitcase, you’re probably wondering: How do I get legal residency somewhere without marrying a local or dropping $500,000 on a golden visa?
Good news — there are plenty of legal residency options that are accessible, affordable, and realistic for citizens of the U.S., U.K., and Canada. You don’t need a legal degree or a mountain of paperwork to figure it out. You just need to know where to look.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the best countries offering residency pathways that are friendly to North Americans and Brits.
🇲🇽 Mexico – Temporary Residency (Up to 4 Years)
Why it’s great: No income tax on foreign-earned income, close to home, affordable, and well-developed expat communities.
How to qualify: Financial solvency OR buy property in Mexico worth a certain amount.
Bonus: After four years, you can apply for permanent residency. You don’t have to live in Mexico full time.
🇵🇾 Paraguay – Permanent Residency by Deposit
Why it’s great: One of the easiest residencies in the world, low cost of living, and relaxed lifestyle.
How to qualify: Clean police record from where you live, also need your apostilled birth certificate.
Bonus: No minimum stay requirements. Recommended to visit once every 3 years. Dual citizenship is allowed.
🇵🇹 Portugal – D7 Visa (Passive Income Residency)
Why it’s great: EU access, beautiful scenery, healthcare, and safety. Portugal is a favorite for retirees and remote workers.
How to qualify: Show proof of passive income and live in the country at least part-time.
Bonus: Can lead to permanent residency or citizenship in 5 years.
🇬🇪 Georgia (the Country) – No Visa Needed + Easy Residency
Why it’s great: Americans, Brits, and Canadians can stay visa-free for up to a year. Startup and entrepreneur visas are easy.
How to qualify: Apply for residency if you want to stay longer. Once a year border runs are super easy. Business ownership, investment, or work contracts can all qualify.
Bonus: Super low taxes, fast-growing digital nomad scene, and a unique blend of Europe and Asia.
🇲🇾 Malaysia – MM2H & Digital Nomad Visa
Why it’s great: Urban life meets tropical beaches. Very affordable and incredibly expat-friendly.
How to qualify: MM2H program requires proof of income and/or savings. The DE Rantau Nomad Visa is newer and more accessible for remote workers.
Bonus: English is widely spoken, and healthcare is excellent.
🇺🇾 Uruguay – Residency by Arrival
Why it’s great: Super chill. You can apply for residency as soon as you arrive—no visa needed beforehand.
How to qualify: Proof of income (like a remote job, pension, or rental income). No huge financial barriers.
Bonus: One of the most stable and progressive countries in Latin America.
🇮🇹 Italy – Elective Residency Visa (If You’re Not Working There)
Why it’s great: Um... it’s Italy. Pasta, wine, history, and incredible landscapes.
How to qualify: Must prove sufficient passive income (pension, rental, investments—no remote work allowed).
Bonus: If you’ve got Italian ancestry, you may qualify for citizenship jure sanguinis (by bloodline).
🛫 Final Thoughts: Choose Your Residency Strategy
Some countries want investors. Others want pensioners, remote workers, or simply friendly new residents who meet a few income requirements.
You don’t have to be rich. You just need a plan. ✍️
Think about:
Your lifestyle and climate preferences
Tax implications
Visa timelines and long-term goals (citizenship? second passport?)
And remember—you can always start with one country and move later. You’re not locked in.
