Living Beyond Borders: Navigating Life as a U.S. Citizen Abroad

More Americans are asking a new kind of question: “How can I most easily move outside of the U.S., part-time or full-time?”

Whether it’s about securing a second passport, expanding international opportunities for future generations or simply creating more options, more U.S. citizens are thinking globally and planning accordingly.

At Aspiriant, we work with individuals and families who already have or are beginning to build international footprints through business, careers, family, lifestyle or legacy. From exploring second citizenship to coordinating cross-border tax and estate strategies, our team helps bring clarity to a complex and evolving landscape.

We also collaborate with trusted global partners to ensure every aspect of your life—financial, legal and personal—is considered with care.

Because it’s not about fitting your life into a financial plan. It’s about creating a financial plan that fits the life you want across borders, generations and whatever comes next.

Why more Americans are thinking globally

We’re seeing a steady rise in interest around global mobility, especially among people with cross-border families, international business interests or a desire to future-proof their lifestyle. Some of the most common motivations include:

• Cultural or family connections to another country
• Access to international education, careers, healthcare and opportunity
• A desire for more flexibility amid political or economic uncertainty

For many, it’s not about making a permanent move. It’s about opening doors and creating possibilities.

Understanding citizenship and residency by investment

The term “investment migration” may not come up in everyday conversation, but the idea is simple: Some other countries allow you to acquire legal residency — or even citizenship —by making a qualifying financial investment.

That could include:

• Purchasing real estate
• Contributing to a national development or government fund
• Starting or investing in a local business

Residency by investment typically gives you the right to live, work or study in a country and may provide access to public services. Some residency programs offer a path to citizenship over time.

Citizenship by investment grants full legal rights — often for life — and can usually be passed on to future generations. It may also offer greater visa-free travel and international flexibility.

What U.S. citizens should know about dual citizenship

The United States allows dual citizenship. This means you can hold a second passport in addition to your U.S. passport. Many Americans qualify through ancestry. Others explore citizenship through residency or investment.

But each country has its own policies. Some may require you to spend a minimum number of days there each year. Others may trigger new tax obligations or renewal requirements.

Before you pursue a second citizenship, ask:

• Will my U.S. citizenship be affected? (In most cases, it won’t.)
• Will I become a tax resident in the new country?
• How will this impact my estate plan or future inheritance I’ve planned for loved ones?

These are the types of questions we help clients tee-up for trusted legal or tax advisors to help answer with clarity and care.

Financial planning for life abroad

Even if you don’t plan to relocate outside of the U.S. full-time, global mobility brings new layers to your financial life, including the following considerations:

• U.S. citizens are taxed on worldwide income, no matter where they live and may be subject to certain U.S. filings when holding cash or investments overseas
• Banking and foreign currency exchange to manage your spending outside of the U.S.
• How to organize your U.S. investments and real estate property while you’re abroad
• Cross-border estate plans require careful structuring to avoid confusion or costly outcomes

While these issues can seem complex, they’re navigable with thoughtful planning and the right team.

Learn more about how we support clients through comprehensive tax services tailored to your unique needs.

Healthcare, Medicare and Social Security abroad

Healthcare is often one of the biggest questions people have when exploring life outside the U.S. Here are a few important facts:

• Medicare doesn’t typically cover care outside the U.S.
• Many expats and globally mobile families purchase international health insurance that provides coverage across borders
• If you’ve already started receiving Social Security payments, you may be able to continue collecting them while living abroad. The Social Security Administration’s Payments Abroad Screening Tool can help you determine eligibility based on your destination country.
• If you’re planning to retire abroad or split time between countries, knowing your options and limitations can help you prepare with confidence. A wealth advisor can help you evaluate trade-offs, avoid blind spots and create a plan that supports your lifestyle, wherever life takes you.

An example global plan in action

Practical tips for a globally mobile life

Even if you’re just starting to think about the possibility of living abroad one day, these early steps can make a meaningful difference:

• Renew your passport early, especially for children
• Keep a U.S.-based mailing address and bank account, when possible
• Strengthen your cybersecurity practices, especially for online banking or investing while overseas
• If you’re planning a move with family, research local schools, healthcare systems, housing markets and legal requirements well in advance

Moving abroad or even just spending more time outside the U.S. requires more than logistics. It touches every part of your life. Preparing early gives you time to plan intentionally and adjust smoothly.

How Aspiriant helps globally minded families

At Aspiriant, we work with individuals and families who are expanding their horizons, geographically and financially.

Whether you’re considering dual citizenship, exploring international investment options or simply want to think more globally about your future, we help align your plan with your values and goals.

Our approach is thoughtful, comprehensive and deeply personal — designed to support you across borders, generations and life transitions.

Considering your next step?

Whether you’re seriously exploring a move outside of the U.S. or just curious what global planning could look like for your life, talk with us. We’re here to help. Because this isn’t about leaving anything behind, it’s about opening the door to what’s ahead.