If you are an American who is thinking about moving to the EU, finding the right country to call a new home can be stressful. Job opportunities, language barriers and many other factors could impact your decision to move.
To make the choice easier, Schengen Visa Info has ranked the best Schengen countries to move to from the US, in which Switzerland has emerged as the top destination, offering the ultimate conditions for American citizens to settle.
Schengen member states have been evaluated for several aspects that make a country ideal to move to, including English language proficiency and friendliness toward America, as two important factors for integration.
People move to other countries for a better life, and Schengen countries have a reputation for better work-life balance and many job opportunities. However, it is important for those who come to the EU to feel welcomed and accepted in the new environment. Speaking the same language can really help foreigners to feel included.
Scandinavian Countries Among Top Destinations for Americans
Norway is the second-best destination for Americans to move to, standing out for its healthcare and English proficiency, while Denmark ranks third, with a remarkable score for financial flexibility – which represents the surplus money after necessary expenses.
Iceland and Sweden rank fourth and fifth, respectively, due to a combination of English proficiency and a stable healthcare system. Finland ranks eighth, falling behind the Netherlands and Austria, but standing out for the higher score in friendliness toward Americans.
Scandinavian countries and Finland have the highest scores on this ranking due to their healthcare system – something that Americans appreciate. On top of that, Scandinavians and Finns are often fluent in English, which is a plus for the friendly Americans.
Germany Ranks as 10th Best, Mainly Due to Scoring Low for Friendliness Toward America
While Germany has one of the highest scores for language proficiency and the healthcare system, it has scored the lowest for friendliness. The ‘cold’ attitude that characterises Germans can be a problem for Americans who, despite being on a search for a better life, really do appreciate a friendly and warm environment.
Luxembourg, which is positioned ninth in this ranking, also scored high for its healthcare options and financial flexibility, but like Germany, the low score for friendliness and English proficiency, on top of that, ranked the country at the bottom of this list.
Netherlands and Iceland scored the highest for English proficiency, while Switzerland and Norway collected the most points for healthcare.
