How Some Americans Have Found A Clever New Way To Move Abroad

Forbes

26-04-2025

Americans are finding a new way to move abroad—by studying in a historic European city while paving a path to long-term residency.
Americans aren't just dreaming about moving abroad—they're making it happen. A recent survey found that 17% of Americans plan to move overseas within the next five years, with another 5% actively working on their relocation. There are many ways to live overseas, from golden visa programs (which give residency by investment) to citizenship by ancestry. But some Americans have found a clever new way to move abroad—by becoming a student. And here's the trick: It's not just for students.
As founder of Finding La Dolce Vita—an Italy-based agency that helps Americans and other foreigners move to Europe—Kim Englehart is used to assisting families with student visas, primarily for young adults looking to study abroad, particularly in Europe.
But last year, a middle-aged client approached the company with a different request: Could Finding La Dolce Vita obtain a student visa for the client to take classes abroad herself? 'At first, I thought it was just a one-off,' Englehart told me in an interview. 'But then, more and more people started inquiring.'
Fast forward—the number of American students studying abroad is on the rise. According to a November 2024 report, it increased by 49% in 2022-23 over the previous year (the most recent data available). And according to Englehart, the number of clients age 40s and up who are seeking student visas has soared.
The reasons vary: Some clients want to immerse themselves in a new culture, while others are drawn to the well-documented cognitive effects of lifelong learning. But for many, the ultimate goal is something bigger—using education as a stepping stone to long-term residency and, in some cases, a second passport.
Amanda Klekowski von Koppenfels—a relocation consultant and career coach who also mentors Americans applying to graduate programs abroad—says she's seeing a similar trend. 'I am seeing increased interest in applying to graduate school in Europe,' she told me in an interview. 'But I also see that these are genuine applications. They are applying to programs they are qualified for, interested in and excited about.'
According to Klekowski von Koppenfels, many clients had already intended to pursue graduate studies—but recent events have prompted them to act sooner rather than later. 'Most of them had planned to apply to graduate school at some point, and now seemed to be a good moment to do so,' she says.
The study-abroad strategy is also gaining traction among families, according to Jana Sanchez, cofounder of GTFO Tours, a new Netherlands-based relocation company that helps Americans settle overseas. 'This is a thing,' Sanchez told me in an interview. She is seeing it mainly with 'adult children of Americans who are coming to Europe on passive income visas or even entrepreneur visas or for countries, like the UK, that don't have digital nomad or passive income visas.'
And for many families, the goal isn't just education—it's creating a safe, long-term future abroad for their children. 'In almost every country you can bring children up to age 18, but a lot of parents, especially those of LGBTQ adult children, are trying specifically to get their children out, so they take them with them on a student visa.'
Another perk to studying abroad: Many Americans find that tuition at foreign institutions is significantly lower than in the U.S., making this an appealing option for people looking to further their education without the American price tag. Plus: 'Higher education in Europe is not only more affordable, but of a higher academic level,' says Englehart.
In countries like France and Italy, international students can pay as little as $2,100 a year for a bachelor's degree at public universities. Even private universities (which tend to be more expensive) offer programs ranging from $2,100 to $21,000 a year.
'Another point: Getting a PhD in Europe is very inexpensive, so if people really do want to study, there's no better time,' says Sanchez.
Another thing going for this plan: health care. According to Englehart, international students in places like France and Italy can tap into high-quality health care at a fraction of U.S. costs.
Best of all, it could be a stepping stone to building a new life in Europe—the life you've always dreamed of.
For people who want to consider this route, here are some key points to keep in mind:
Residency and Citizenship Pathways Differ: Be careful to check the rules for each country. Sanchez points out that while student visas can be an excellent tool for jump-starting a new life abroad, it's important to think long-term, since in some countries 'student visa time spent doesn't count towards permanent residency or second passports.' That said: While a student visa won't immediately grant residency, it can be a stepping stone, as some countries allow students to transition to work visas or residency permits after their studies.
Student Visa Requirements Vary by Country: Some nations have age restrictions or proof-of-funds requirements, so research is key.
Enrollment Must Be Legitimate: You'll need to be accepted into a recognized university or educational institution, and in many cases, maintain a full course load.
Financial Considerations: Tuition in many European countries is affordable, but you'll need to prove financial self-sufficiency to qualify for a visa.
Language: You don't need to speak the language; many universities across Europe offer courses in English.
Some countries are particularly attractive, thanks to student-friendly visa policies and accessible paths to residency.
Italy: Italy offers student visas that can lead to long-term residency, and the country's public universities 'offer affordable education,' says Englehart, whose company specializes principally in France and Italy. 'Tuition fees vary depending on the institution, program and the student's family income.' Englehart recommends a mix of public and private institutions, including University of Bologna (founded in 1088, it is Europe's oldest university in continuous operation), Sapienza University of Rome (one of Europe's largest universities), University of Padua (established in 1222 and offering courses in agriculture, engineering, medicine and science), Bocconi University (a private university located in Milan, renowned for its programs in economics, management, finance and law), Politecnico di Milano (specializing in engineering, architecture and design).
France: 'French public universities are known for their affordable tuition fees, even for international students,' says Englehart, who recommends spots like Université Paris-Saclay (located near Paris), Université d'Orléans (in the historic city of Orléans), Aix-Marseille Université (in the south of France), Université de Montpellier (one of the world's oldest universities) and Université de Paris (which combines centuries of academic tradition with modern offerings). Another perk: France grants long-term residency to students who meet specific criteria, including job placement after graduation.
Portugal: Known for its affordable cost of living and welcoming expat community, Portugal offers residency options for students who later transition to work visas. Top universities include the University of Lisbon (Portugal's largest university, with strong programs in humanities, sciences and technology) and the University of Coimbra (known for law, medicine and liberal arts).
Spain: Allows non-EU students to apply for post-study work permits, making it easier to stay beyond their education. Popular choices include University of Barcelona (a top-ranked university offering an array of English-taught programs) and Autonomous University of Madrid (highly regarded for law, sciences and humanities).
Germany: With tuition-free education at public universities, Germany is a budget-friendly option for people looking to study and stay. Standout institutions include Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (with a broad range of programs), Heidelberg University (renowned for medicine and natural sciences) and Technical University of Munich (a top choice for engineering, technology and applied sciences).