Relocation to another country given the results of our election
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We are considering moving to France however, given the results of our election will people from the United States be welcomed in other countries seeking to obtain residency or immigrate?
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It seems like almost every developed nation is now struggling with immigration issues. I think, though, if you are seeking to retire overseas or work as a digital nomad and you have the funds to do those...and you don't plan to overburden public resources intended for citizens, you will be welcomed. Definitely working on speaking French and integrating into the culture being an active part of the community will help.
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It has been our experience traveling in other countries that most people can draw a distinction between the government and the citizens of your country. Like Suzan says, as long as you treat others with respect (and don't try to start a political debate), you should have no problems.
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It is funny, but in my opinion it is no different here in Italy than anywhere else. The EU community is excited (some) and not excited (others) by our latest election. I have had people want to move to Italy because Portugal and/or Spain was raising its/their taxes. I will tell you the same thing I told them.
The very last reasons to move to a foriegn country, to change languages, to up end all of your cultural norms, and to adjust to completely differing ways of thinking, are tax, money, religion or politics.
You were already thinking of moveing to France. Despite it not being Italy it is a great country with a great deal to offer and a wonderful way of life. Don't let your perception of an election color what others may or may not think. The French just like the Italians are very accepting of Americans, and are very interested in their poinrt of view, ideas, and reasons for moving overseas from their (your) homeland.
I doubt very seriously that many French people are as passionate about US politics as we are. Move to France! Don't let any perception, real or imagined hold you back! I wish you well in your move!
Chip Stites International Living Italian Correspondent. -
It probably wouldn't hurt for some of us to eat a little humble pie. My experience in foreign countries, even 50 years ago, was that a lot of people seemed to feel that people from the United States were rather arrogant, even though we are trying to be friendly. Calling ourselves American can really bother people from Mexico, Canada, Central or South America. The people in Argentina called me Estado Unidense (United Statesian) or Yankee. With the Argentine accent, that sounded to me like they were calling my "junkie". Needless to say, I didn't like the sound of that. So breaking the ice wasn't easy. I eventually made life long friends with them, but it wasn't a great way to start.
As far as people from other countries hating our government, especially places like Panama, Canada and Greenland, I can only think to comiserate with them, and let them know that is one of the reasons I'm coming to their country now.