What’s Stopping You from Moving Abroad? Here’s The Real Reason You’re Stuck

Move Abroad Now
Aug 3
3 min read

Let’s Be Honest: You Say You Want to Move Abroad…So Why Haven’t You?

It starts with a dream: cobblestone streets, a slower pace of life, maybe better coffee.

You’re researching countries. Watching YouTube videos. Scrolling expat hashtags late at night.

And yet…you’re still exactly where you started.

You’re not alone. Most people who say they want to move abroad never actually do it.

Not because it’s impossible. Because they stay stuck in a loop of “not yet” and “what if.”

Let’s break that down.

The Real Reason You’re Stuck? Excuses Masquerading as Logic.

We tell ourselves stories that sound responsible, reasonable—even mature.

“It’s just too expensive right now.”“I wouldn’t be able to find a job.”“I don’t think I could get a visa anyway.”

But here’s the truth: These aren’t facts. They’re fears dressed up as logistics. And they’re blocking your dream before it even has a chance.

Let’s debunk the biggest ones.

Excuse #1: “It’s Too Expensive”

Yes, moving abroad costs money. But guess what? So does staying put.

The U.S. has one of the highest costs of living in the developed world—especially for healthcare, housing, and education.

In countries like Portugal, Spain, and Mexico, many expats find they spend 30–60% less per month while living better.

Need proof?

In many parts of Portugal—including coastal towns—monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from €500 to €800, often much lower than comparable housing in the U.S.
Groceries in France or Spain: lower than most U.S. cities
Public healthcare: often included or minimal cost

Tip: Use websites like Numbeo or Expatistan to compare cost of living by city. You might be shocked.

Excuse #2: “I Couldn’t Work There”

True—some visas don’t let you work locally.But that doesn’t mean you can’t earn a living.

You’ve got options:

Remote work: Millions of jobs now support full-time remote work from anywhere
Freelancing or consulting: Turn your skills into income from a laptop
Start a business: Online courses, services, digital products, content creation—it’s all portable now

Resources to explore: FlexJobs for legit remote roles. We Work Remotely, Upwork, or Remote OK

Nomad-friendly business models like coaching, marketing, writing, or virtual assistance (Using your existing skillset!)

Excuse #3: “Visas Are Too Complicated”

Sure, visas can feel confusing. But there are more pathways than ever—and many don’t require citizenship, sponsorship, or retirement.

Just a few examples:

Digital Nomad Visas in countries like Spain, Portugal, Croatia, and Greece
Long-Stay Visitor Visas in France, Italy, and Mexico
Entrepreneur or Passive Income Visas in countries like Costa Rica or Panama
Residency through ancestry (Italy and Ireland are common)

Tip: You don’t need to figure it out alone. Immigration attorneys, visa consultants, and relocation coaches exist for a reason. You can DIY or hire help.

So… What’s Really Stopping You?

It’s not the money. It’s not the job. It’s not the visa.

It’s the inner voice whispering: “This is too risky. What if you mess it all up?”

And that is the real work—understanding what’s behind the hesitation and learning to move through it with more clarity and confidence.

Ready to Ditch the Excuses?

If you’ve been stuck in “someday” mode—thinking about moving abroad but never quite getting traction—this free guide is for you.

FROM STUCK TO READY: What’s Stopping You from Moving Abroad? Here’s The Real Reason You’re Stuck

From Stuck to Ready is a powerful guide that helps you uncover the real blocks holding you back (hint: it’s not money or visas), and gives you a simple 3-step plan to start moving forward.

Inside, you’ll learn: