A recent article published by Forbes on April 26 explores how the United States is facing a new wave of migration, as a growing number of U.S. residents feel disappointed by Donald Trump’s promises and policies increasingly out of step with the country’s social landscape. Latest figures show that 17% of Americans are expected to leave the States by 2030, with 5% already defying a detailed escape plan. Surely a risky plan, especially given President Trump’s threats to bar re-entry for certain U.S. residents (from immigrants to students). Yet that hasn’t stopped many to find smart ways to quickly leave the country, whether it’s through job opportunities or visa programs.

So, what’s the consequence? Australia, Canada, and Mexico are experiencing a rise in citizenship requests, with Europe at the top of the list. This trend is a reflection of Americans’ courage to move and take back their freedom, whether it’s economical or personal. Kim Englehart, founder of the Italian immigration agency Finding La Dolce Vita, supports this perspective and confirms that after Donald Trump’s re-election “more and more people started inquiring”. This is the living proof the U.S is nothing but a cluster of public discontent, frustration, and a sense of incompatibility with what once was the American system.

Also, the article makes the audience understand that American students appear to be the most determined to leave the country. Indeed, a November 2024 report recorded a 48% spike in the number of academics leaving the States, hoping for a better future and more cultural immersion. 

Immigration experts and consultants speaks about the situation:

• Amanda Klukowski von Koppenfels notes a surge in applications to European colleges, which is a clear sign that many U.S. residents view education as the key to embrace a broader social shift.
• Jana Sanchez notes a growing number of parents (especially in the queer community) are helping their children apply for student visas abroad. In particular, these Americans are seeking countries that are more welcoming to digital nomads and support LGBTQ families. Moreover, she suggests Americans to check if the student visa allows them to get a long-term permit.

The article emphasizes  that this phenomenon can become a reality but only if making this choice goes hand in hand with affordability. As Public education and private schools in Europe (especially in France and Italy) become more accessible, a growing number of U.S. citizens are seeing this move as a launchpad to a new life.

The feature includes key factors to check when planning studying abroad:

• Student Visa: Research into visa requirements is essential to get the best permit.
• Legitimacy: It’s important to maintain a valid student visa and get accepted into an official academic institution.
• Budget: Proving financial self-sufficiency is a prerequisite to access tuition scholarships.
• Communication: You don’t need to be fluent in the country’s language, as English is widely spoken.

Statistics reveal a list of countries that stand out as particularly accessible for American students seeking visas.

• Italy: Top public universities include La Sapienza University of Rome, University of Bologna, and University of Padua, which offer a wide range of courses.
• France: Known for its affordable tuition and long-term residency for international students, France stands out for the Université Paris-Saclay, Université de Montpellier, and Université de Paris.
• Portugal: A mirage for its budget-friendly cost of living and multiculturalism, this destination stands out for the University of Lisbon and the University of Coimbra.
• Spain: A great choice for non-EU students, as the country releases post-graduation permits with top universities like the University of Barcelona or the University of Madrid.
• Germany: With tuition free universities, Germany stands out for the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Heidelberg University, and Technical University of Munich.