New York: The resurgence of Donald Trump’s presidency has sparked a wave of emigration considerations among some Americans, with many citing concerns over civil liberties, LGBTQ+ rights, and racial equality. This trend is supported by data showing a significant increase in applications for European passports and a surge in inquiries to relocation firms specialising in international moves.
The concerns are exemplified by Doris Davis and Susie Bartlett, an interracial lesbian couple from New York City, who are actively pursuing relocation to Europe. Their decision, they state, stems directly from their apprehension about the rollback of policies aimed at promoting racial equity and protecting LGBTQ+ rights under Trump’s administration. This sentiment resonates with many others, who feel that their personal freedoms and values are increasingly under threat.
Government data backs up the anecdotal evidence. US applications for Irish passports reached a ten-year high in early 2025, while UK passport applications hit a two-decade record in the final quarter of 2024. While some relocation firms noted an initial interest from Republicans following Joe Biden’s 2020 win, the majority report a much larger increase in inquiries since Trump’s return.
However, the situation is not straightforward. The rise of right-wing populist parties across Europe presents a complication. In Italy and Germany, for example, right-wing parties are gaining political ground. This poses a challenge for those seeking a haven abroad, as their chosen destination may not be entirely immune to similar ideological shifts. Chrison Wright, founder of BlackExit, an organisation assisting Black Americans with relocation, reports a significant increase in website traffic since the election, highlighting the complexities involved.
Furthermore, practical obstacles remain. Relocation platform ‘relocate.me’ highlights difficulties in securing employment abroad, restrictions on remote work, lower salaries in some European countries, and the complexities of the US tax system as significant barriers to entry. Existing social and economic challenges within Europe, including mass tourism and housing shortages, are also adding to the anxieties.
