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With all the conflicts happening around the world, we're getting this question more than ever: What's the number 1 country people want to move to?
For decades, the United States held the top spot as the world's most desired immigration destination. Since 1965, over 70 million immigrants have made their way to the U.S., establishing it as the global leader in international migration. These immigrants have come from nearly every corner of the globe, with the largest numbers from Mexico, India, China, and the Philippines, according to the Pew Research Center.
However, the world looks quite different in 2025. Political tensions, domestic unrest, the threat of conflict, immigration crackdowns, and tighter border policies have all chipped away at America's status as the go-to destination for people seeking a new life. When experts at 1st Move International dug into Google search data, they found Canada has now emerged as the most searched country for immigration, with over 1.5 million searches. It's a shift that makes sense for many, when you consider Canada's reputation for stability, openness, and genuine opportunity.
At the same time, a noteworthy trend is emerging within the U.S. itself: more and more Americans are seriously considering packing up and moving abroad. The very things that are keeping people from coming to the U.S. are now pushing Americans to look elsewhere. Where are they looking? Like many others worldwide, U.S. citizens are also considering Canada as a top choice, while Europe continues to catch the interest of a large number of those seeking new horizons overseas.
Portugal, in particular, is experiencing renewed interest. After enthusiasm waned when the country removed real estate from its investor visa program, momentum appears to be building again. We've received a significant boost in Portugal inquiries from our readers in the last few weeks. This resurgence may be partly driven by Spain's recent policy changes, including the suspension of its Golden Visa program, the proposal of a potential 100% tax on foreign property buyers, and growing anti-tourism sentiment in main cities like Barcelona.
Thinking of making a move? Our Global Mobility Experts are here to guide U.S. citizens through the evolving migration landscape, helping you evaluate the best-fit destinations for your lifestyle and investment goals. Reach out to our team to find the right pathway.
But do these search statistics tell the whole story? Are these truly the best destinations for both international migrants and Americans looking to relocate?
In 2025, several countries stand out as excellent options for relocation, each with unique strengths. Switzerland consistently ranks high due to its strong economy, high earning potential, and quality of life. Finland has been recognized for its happiness and social stability. However, immigration policies can make it difficult to stay permanently in these countries.
This is precisely why countries like Portugal and Canada remain attractive options for many prospective emigrants, even as their immigration policies become increasingly selective.
Canada's popularity is rooted in its long-standing commitment to multiculturalism, economic opportunity, and inclusive policies. It consistently ranks high in global indexes for quality of life, education, safety, and healthcare. Moreover, Canada offers a clear and structured pathway to citizenship, particularly through its Start-Up Visa Program, which provides direct permanent residency for qualified applicants.
The Start-Up Visa Program offers:
- Immediate permanent residency status upon arrival
- Eligibility for citizenship after 3 years of residence
- Inclusion of spouse and dependent children under 22
- Universal healthcare and access to free public education for children
- Optional work permit while PR application is processed
The Start-Up visa offers exceptional flexibility: applicants can land as permanent residents and later fulfill the physical presence requirements for citizenship, or they can arrive earlier on a work permit and await their PR decision while already establishing their business with their families by their side. This structure allows entrepreneurs to build their businesses while preparing for life in Canada.
Canada is widely recognized as one of the most attractive countries in the world to live in, particularly for those seeking permanent residency. It is the only G7 country currently offering a direct pathway for newcomers to obtain permanent resident status upon arrival, and citizenship within only 3 years of physical presence. But while the opportunities are significant, it’s important to weigh them against practical realities.
Apart from the Start-up Visa program, which isn't suitable for everyone since it requires an entrepreneurial background, substantial investment, and meeting specific criteria, other immigration routes are becoming increasingly competitive. The Express Entry system and Provincial Nominee Programs now have higher requirements and longer processing times. In addition, many people who receive temporary permits find themselves struggling to convert to permanent residency, often getting caught in processing delays or changing requirements.
Additionally, like Ireland and Australia, Canada is grappling with a housing affordability crisis that presents real challenges for newcomers arriving without a solid financial plan or housing strategy in place.
All in all, Canada remains a country with significant opportunities even in today's challenging global climate, but we strongly recommend seeking advice and having a well-thought-out plan before applying.
If you are looking for professional advice, form a team that cares about your needs and goals, contac us to find the right pathway.
Portugal offers a different but equally attractive proposition. While it does not provide direct PR initially, it allows for a relatively easy path to EU citizenship through its Golden Visa and other residence permit programs. The country scores exceptionally well in terms of safety, healthcare, climate, and cost of living. In fact, Portugal has become a top destination for remote workers, retirees, and investors.
Highlights of Portugal's appeal:
- Temporary residency through investment, with PR or citizenship eligibility***
- Low physical stay requirements (just 35 days total in 5 years)
- Family reunification under the same application
- Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area
- EU citizenship eligibility, with a powerful passport granting access to 191 countries
- Programs tailored for digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled professionals
***On June 23rd, the Portuguese government confirmed that it will double the years to naturalization from 5 to 10 years amongst other measures. For more details read the full article here or contact our team***
The main Visa requirements for Portugal Golden Visa:
Minimum investment starts at €250,000 for contributions to arts and cultural heritage preservation; however, the most popular route remains a €500,000 investment in approved, non-real-estate investment funds.
Applicants must demonstrate a clean criminal record, valid health insurance coverage, and a history of legal compliance in previous countries of residence.
For those that may not have the means to invest, Portugal also offers alternative programs:
- D2 Visa (Entrepreneur): For those who wish to start a business, invest in an existing business, or work as independent professionals in Portugal.
- D8 Visa (Digital Nomad): For remote workers with foreign income sources
- HQA Visa (Highly Qualified Activity): For professionals with significant professional achievements, educational qualifications, or entrepreneurial backgrounds, particularly in fields like technology, science, and finance.
Need help navigating Portugal's new visa rules? Ingwe’s experts can walk you through the latest options and recommend tailored alternatives. Click here to start.
As more individuals seek mobility solutions in an unpredictable world, Canada and Portugal stand out as great alternatives in immigration innovation. Canada offers a robust, long-term relocation solution through direct PR and a fast track to citizenship. Other current pathways have become more complex as regulations have become more stringent, so if you are an entrepreneur or business enthusiast, Canada may be right for you.
Countries like Portugal, meanwhile, provide more flexible schemes for all pockets. The Golden Visa offers a direct path to EU residency, while the D2, D8, and HQA programs offer low-barrier entry for professionals, freelancers, and digital nomads. Each pathway opens the door to long-term EU citizenship and a lifestyle enriched by safety, affordability, and cultural access.
In the end, you can read thousands of "Top 10 countries to relocate" articles, but the best option depends entirely on your personal goals. Whether you're focused on business expansion, remote work, or family migration, Ingwe Global Mobility Experts can help you evaluate your best-fit options and move forward with confidence.
With investment migration shaping the future of cross-border freedom, there has never been a better time to plan your move.
Let Ingwe support you every step of the way.
Book you strategy call with our team and find the best pathway for you and your family.
