Doris Davis and Susie Bartlett, an interracial lesbian couple from New York, are ready to leave the U.S. for Portugal. Donald Trump’s return to power, with policies targeting racial equity, same-sex marriage, and women’s rights, has made staying feel untenable. “This isn’t the country we love anymore,” Doris, 69, told Reuters. They’re among a growing number of Americans tapping Europe’s visa programs for a safer, more stable future.

What’s Behind the Move?

Trump’s second term has intensified America’s political divides. A 2024 NBC News poll found 66% of Americans see the nation on the “wrong track,” with many citing threats to personal rights. For Doris and Susie, 52 and retired, the rollback of LGBTQ+ protections hits hard. “We can’t keep hoping things will change,” Doris said. Data reflects the unrest: Ireland reported a 60% surge in U.S. passport applications in early 2025, reaching 4,300 monthly. France saw long-stay visa requests rise from 1,980 in 2024 to 2,383 in Q1 2025.

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Visas Pave the Way

Europe’s visa options are drawing Americans in. Portugal’s D7 retirement visa, requiring $900 a month in passive income, and Spain’s digital nomad visa are popular choices. A 2025 Henley & Partners report noted a 400% spike in U.S. inquiries for golden visas post-election, with Portugal’s €250,000 cultural investment option standing out. “It’s a straightforward path to residency,” advisor Marco Permunian said. Wendy Newman, who moved to London in 2022, is now helping her daughter secure a UK student visa. “Europe feels like a fresh start,” she said.

Community Across Borders

In Lisbon, Chrishan Wright’s Blaxit platform is guiding Black Americans abroad, seeing a 50% traffic jump post-election. Her $16.99-a-month Global Passport program, up 20% in subscribers, offers visa advice and community support. “We’re building a new home together,” Chrishan said. A 2024 Global Sustainable Investment Alliance study found relocation programs boost social integration by 15%. English-friendly cities like Lisbon and Dublin ease the shift.

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Overcoming Obstacles

Relocating isn’t simple. Lower European salaries, U.S. global taxes, and housing shortages pose challenges. Portugal and Spain ended golden visa real estate options in 2025, tightening the market. Still, digital nomad visas allow remote U.S. jobs, and ancestry programs, like Ireland’s citizenship by descent, offer alternatives. “It’s tough, but people are adapting,” said Thea Duncan of Milan’s Doing Italy, reporting a 300% rise in U.S. visa inquiries.

Why It Matters

This wave of migration reflects a search for alignment with personal values. A 2024 PwC survey showed 83% of Americans want to live where their identities are respected. The UN predicts open migration could create 5 million jobs by 2030, boosting economies like Portugal’s. “We’re choosing peace,” Susie said. Their story underscores a broader truth: for many, the American dream is finding new roots abroad.

Taking the Leap

The EU’s 2024-2025 Schengen report highlights spiking U.S. interest in residency programs. Doris and Susie are working with an immigration lawyer to secure Portugal’s digital nomad or retirement visa. “It’s scary, but it’s right,” Doris said. For others considering the move, experts suggest starting with visa research or expat networks. As Trump’s policies reshape the U.S., Europe’s doors are open, offering a chance to rebuild.

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