Are you thinking about leaving the United States for safety, stability, or a better quality of life? In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Dan Brotman, an American expat based in Montreal who specializes in investment migration—including Golden Visas, Digital Nomad Visas, and residency-by-investment options tailored to the LGBTQ+ community.
With an academic background in immigration policy, multiple citizenships, and years of frontline experience helping people relocate, Dan brings unmatched insight into how Americans can legally, safely, and strategically build a future outside the U.S. Follow Dan on Instagram: @danbrotman linktr.ee/danbrotman
🏡 IN THIS VIDEO, WE COVER:
🌍 Why Americans—Especially LGBTQ+ People—Are Exploring Life Abroad
We discuss political extremism, threats to civil rights, financial instability, and what it means to live somewhere your rights are not up for debate.
💶 Golden Visas & Migration Pathways
Dan explains the residency-by-investment programs opening doors across Europe, Latin America, and beyond—and why securing a visa before your “red line” is crossed is essential.
❤️🩹 Healthcare Without Fear
Real stories from Spain, Uruguay, and Canada:
€80/month private healthcare in Spain
A 5-day ICU stay for $19
An emergency room visit in Canada that cost $0
A U.S. insurance premium high enough to rent an apartment in Valencia
🧠 Financial Relief & Peace of Mind
We explore how predictable, low-cost healthcare abroad reduces anxiety for families who worry about a single medical emergency derailing their finances.
🎓 Education & Opportunity
Why families are sending their children to Europe—especially the Netherlands—for nearly free, world-class university education.
🏳️🌈 Rights, Safety & Community
Dan discusses LGBTQ+ rights, abortion access, universal healthcare, and gun laws in Canada—issues considered settled and not weaponized politically.
🚨 Red Lines & Safety Planning
We explore how LGBTQ+ people can assess danger, decide their personal boundaries, and obtain the documentation needed to leave quickly if the situation in the U.S. deteriorates.
This is an essential conversation for anyone considering relocation for safety, rights, opportunity, or long-term stability.
🔔 Subscribe for more guides on LGBTQ+ migration, Golden Visa pathways, and global relocation options.
Austin Willingham, 30, grew up in Decatur, Alabama, and knew from a very early age that he wanted to leave home as soon as he turned 18.
While studying abroad in Sweden during his junior year at Troy University, he visited the Netherlands for the first time. Now almost 10 years later, Willingham and his partner are living in Rotterdam with the hope that they can obtain permanent residency or EU citizenship.
It was a move that Willingham admits had been in the works since he returned from his semester abroad in Sweden.
“Once I came back from Sweden, I was just determined to move back to Europe and had reverse culture shock. I was asking my parents if I could transfer to a different university and complete my degree abroad,” he tells CNBC Make It.
“Me being the first-generation college student in my immediate family, my parents were really adamant about me just going ahead and finishing my degree.”
Prior to moving to Rotterdam, Willingham lived in Ireland, traveled through Southeast Asia and was in and out of Australia for five years.
“We thought that it would be a good break. It would be a good change and transition from life in Australia. We also thought it would not be as difficult a change because Rotterdam is still the second-largest city in the country. We’re definitely city people, so we thought that this would just be the best space for us,” he says. “As soon as we got here, the people were so warm and they immediately welcomed us in.”
An estimated 5.5 million Americans live abroad, according to the Association of Americans Resident Overseas (AARO). That number continues to rise with an estimated 1,285 U.S. citizens expatriated in the first quarter of 2025 alone — a 102% increase compared to the same period a year ago, according to a report from CS Global Partners, which analyzed statistics from the U.S. Federal Register.
Life in the Netherlands
Willingham made the official move to Rotterdam in June of this year, on a DAFT (Dutch-American Friendship Treaty) visa. That visa stipulates that he be self-employed or work as a freelancer only.
To satisfy the visa requirements, Willingham works as an event planner and does commercial modeling, but his ultimate goal is to grow his relocation services business, Willing World.
Willingham and his partner live in a two-bedroom apartment with a roommate. The couple splits 430 euros or USD $498 a month for rent — paying 215 euros or USD $249 each — according to documents reviewed by CNBC Make It.
Including rent, Willingham’s monthly expenses in Rotterdam total approximately $680, covering utilities, transportation, health insurance, groceries, and his mobile phone bill.
“I like the freedom. This is coming from a privileged place, but I truly feel like anywhere outside the United States, it’s about being able to breathe and have a work-life balance. That’s what I love most about living abroad, even though I’m working for myself, there is still this balance and there’s not this societal pressure of needing to prove myself all the time.”
Willingham started sharing his journey abroad on TikTok and says that since moving to Rotterdam, he’s enjoyed building a community both online and in real life. He’s excited to see what the future holds, he says, but moving back to the United States is just not in the cards for him right now.
“I would love to live. I would love to own. I would love to say yes at some point, but not in the current situation that we have. It would be way down the line when the United States finally gets some change,” he says.
“I want to be able to be there for my parents, so maybe I wouldn’t move back permanently, but I would spend an extended amount of time.”
Willingham says that leaving the U.S. has taught him that he is capable of anything.
“I’ve learned that I can do it even when I’m scared because it still has to get done,” he says. “When living abroad, especially on your own, you don’t have anybody to depend on, so you learn to depend on yourself and trust yourself with it.”
Conversions from euros to USD were done using the OANDA conversion rate of 1 euro to $1.16 USD on October 14, 2025. All amounts are rounded to the nearest dollar.
Over the last several years, the way we work has undergone a major transformation. More professionals and companies continue to embrace the flexibility of remote work, opening up new opportunities to live and work from anywhere in the world. In response, governments worldwide have rolled out digital nomad visa programs to attract remote workers, boost tourism, and support local economies.
HowThe shift to remote work accelerated dramatically in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, when millions were suddenly working from home. While some companies have since returned to hybrid or in-office models, remote work remains a permanent fixture of the modern workforce. In fact, many professionals are now actively seeking out remote-friendly roles specifically to support a more location-independent lifestyle.
As we move through 2025, remote work continues to evolve—not as a temporary solution, but as a long-term career path. With advancements in technology and global connectivity, the once-rigid boundary between work and travel is becoming more flexible than ever. In response, a growing number of countries are introducing or refining their digital nomad visa programs to welcome remote workers with open arms.
Whether you’re an experienced digital nomad looking for your next base or you’re considering making the leap into this lifestyle, we’ve compiled the most up-to-date list of countries currently offering digital nomad visas in 2025.
What Is a Digital Nomad Visa?
A digital nomad visa is a temporary permit that allows visitors to stay in a country while they work remotely. Multiple countries offer these sorts of visas, and most of them have a duration of 12 months, with the possibility to extend your stay.
While they may not be for everyone, a digital nomad visa allows many remote workers to travel the world while they work from the comfort of their computers. They also help the countries impulse their economy by having foreigners stay for extended periods.
These visas are usually granted to anyone that can prove they have sufficient funds to support themselves (and their families, if needed) while working for a company outside the one issuing the visa.
The digital nomad visa differs from a tourist visa because it allows the visitor to stay longer. Plus, you’re technically not allowed to work while visiting on a tourist visa. Plus, some countries will provide other benefits, like tax exceptions, with a digital nomad visa.
Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
Applying for a digital nomad visa may seem like a long and complicated process. Some countries will have a longer processing time or require more documents, while others will issue visas quickly and easily.
Generally, the application processes are very similar in each country. They will all ask you to gather the necessary documents, like copies of a valid passport, proof that you can work remotely, proof of income, accommodation confirmations, etc.
Most countries will allow you to apply online, while others require you to go to the closest Embassy or Consulate to fill out your application. Most of the time, you’ll need to attend an interview and wait a certain period before getting your visa approval.
If you wish to see the requirements for a specific country, check out our website! You’ll find information on all the countries that offer a digital nomad visa.
Digital Nomad Visa Taxes
The tax situation regarding a digital nomad visa is complicated, and it varies from country to country.
Some countries will expect you to pay full tax, while others will have special rates or tax reductions. Some countries will even have no taxes for digital nomads!
Why Should I Get a Digital Nomad Visa?
A digital nomad visa is perfect for you if you wish to work remotely and live in a different country.
Some digital nomads prefer to move around more, so a 12-month digital nomad visa might not be worth it. However, if you wish to stay longer and truly enjoy everything a country has to offer while you work remotely, these visas are the way to go.
Not only will you be able to stay for much longer than with a tourist visa, but you can also enjoy tax benefits, explore the many attractions a country can offer, and experience life as a local.
It’s the perfect opportunity to expand your horizons!
*Editor’s note: The following blog is purely informational and sourced by Savvy Nomad’s website itself. Flee Red States does not endorse any particular company, nor have we validated its claims. We suggest you always consult professionals such as a CPA or attorney before going through with changes such as these.We’re also aware they are suggesting a red state as your domicile.
For many modern professionals, location is no longer a limitation. The rise of remote work and the digital nomad lifestyle has made it possible to live anywhere in the world—yet many people still find themselves burdened by high state income taxes and complicated residency laws. This is where Savvy Nomad steps in. Designed for the globally minded U.S. citizen, Savvy Nomad offers a simple and fully legal way to minimize state taxes while maintaining compliance with federal requirements.
Understanding the Concept of Domicile
At the heart of Savvy Nomad’s service is the concept of changing your state of domicile. Your domicile determines where you’re subject to state taxes, where you vote, and even what estate laws apply to you. Many U.S. states impose significant income taxes, but others—such as Florida—do not. By establishing Florida as your legal domicile, you can eliminate your state income tax burden altogether while continuing to meet all federal obligations.
How Savvy Nomad Simplifies the Process
Traditionally, changing your domicile involves confusing forms, proof of residency requirements, and sometimes in-person bureaucracy. Savvy Nomad has streamlined this into a fast, online process. Their platform handles the legal documentation, registrations, and declarations needed to make your Florida domicile official. Users can even complete the process in about 15 minutes through the SavvyNomad app—something that could normally take weeks on your own.
To further simplify life, the service includes comprehensive mail forwarding, giving you a Florida address for official correspondence. This helps prove residency and ensures you receive important mail no matter where you’re traveling.
Financial and Lifestyle Benefits
The most obvious benefit is financial—no state income tax means keeping more of your hard-earned money. But there’s more than just savings. With extra disposable income and reduced administrative stress, users can fully embrace the flexibility of a nomadic lifestyle. Imagine running your business from a beach in Bali or a café in Lisbon—without worrying about state tax filings back home.
Savvy Nomad emphasizes compliance. Their team handles filings correctly and ensures users stay aligned with all relevant U.S. laws. For those with unique income or business structures, Savvy Nomad even connects users with certified CPAs who can identify additional tax credits and optimization opportunities.
Legality and Flexibility
Changing your domicile through Savvy Nomad is entirely legitimate. The company compares it to “snowbirds” who spend winters in Florida but remain residents there year-round for tax purposes. You’ll still file your federal taxes as usual; the only difference is that your state-level tax obligations will now be tied to Florida. And if you ever decide to move back to your original state, the transition is straightforward under state-specific guidelines.
The Bottom Line
Savvy Nomad provides more than a tax-saving strategy—it’s a lifestyle-enabling service. By taking the hassle out of domicile changes, it empowers remote workers to reclaim both their money and their freedom. In just minutes online, anyone can establish a Florida domicile, stay compliant with U.S. tax laws, and unlock a world of global flexibility.
Sex Field Requirements: Effective Oct. 14, 2025, CBP systems will only accept “M” (Male) or “F” (Female) in the sex field of APIS transmissions. Any other characters will result in an “X Response-Insufficient Information” error, requiring airlines to resubmit the passenger data with corrected information.
U.S. Passport Format Validation: Starting Oct. 6, 2025, CBP will implement stricter validation for U.S. passport numbers transmitted through APIS.
Implementation Timeline
Sept. 17, 2025: Testing environment (EDU) available for sex field validation changes.
Sept. 24, 2025: Testing environment available for U.S. passport format validation.
Oct. 6, 2025: U.S. passport format validation goes live in production.
Oct. 14, 2025: Sex field validation goes live in production.
U.S. Passport Number Format Requirements
Valid U.S. passport numbers must follow one of these formats:
Option 1: Numeric Format
Nine numeric digits
Must have a numerical value of 4XXXXXXXX or higher
Option 2: Alpha-Numeric Format
Nine characters total
First character must be A, X, Y, or Z
Followed by exactly eight numeric digits
The leading alpha characters indicate passport type:
A: Regular passport
X: Diplomatic passport
Y: Official passport
Z: Service passport
Impact on Business Travel
Employer Considerations:
Review travel policies and booking procedures with travel management companies;
Ensure corporate travel booking systems capture accurate passenger information;
Brief frequent business travelers on the importance of providing exact passport details; and
Consider potential delays if incorrect information requires resubmission.
Employees Considerations:
Double-check that passport information matches exactly what is on the physical document when booking travel;
Verify that airlines have the correct sex designation as listed on the passport;
Allow additional time for potential rebooking if passenger information errors occur; and
Ensure the U.S. passport number format is valid if traveling on a U.S. passport.
Carrier Responsibilities
Airlines remain responsible for comparing travel documents passengers present with the information transmitted to CBP. Airline carriers must ensure accuracy in all APIS data submissions, including traveler sex designation and passport number formatting.
Practical Considerations
Document Verification: Provide passport information exactly as it appears on travel documents.
Sex Designation Accuracy: Ensure the sex designation transmitted to CBP matches exactly what appears on passports, regardless of personal identification.
Passport Updates: Consider whether passport updates may be necessary to ensure smooth travel.
Early Booking: Complete travel bookings in advance to allow time for any necessary corrections.
Travel Management: Work with experienced travel agencies familiar with APIS requirements.
Communication: Ensure clear communication between travelers, booking agents, and airlines regarding exact document details.
Special Considerations
Document Inconsistencies: If travelers’ passports contains a sex designation that differs from their current identification, airlines must still transmit the information exactly as it appears on their passport documents. CBP systems will only accept the “M” or “F” designation that matches travel documents.
Non-Binary Passport Designations: Passports issued with “X” or other non-binary markers will be rejected by CBP systems, requiring resubmission with valid documentation showing “M” or “F” designation.
Passport Updates: Travelers experiencing documentation inconsistencies may wish to consult with the relevant passport issuing authority about available options for updating travel documents.
Takeaways
The implementation of these changes may cause initial adjustment periods. Business travelers and employers should work closely with their travel management companies to enhance compliance with these new requirements. Providing accurate and complete travel documentation remains essential for efficient international travel.
Philadelphia’s tourism agencies are planning to have a queer-friendly information center that will highlight LGBTQ+ events, restaurants and businesses to visitors coming to the city during a busy 2026.
The Philly Pride Visitor Center, operated by the Philadelphia Visitor Center and Visit Philadelphia, will open at 12th and Locust streets in the Gayborhood in January. Organizers said it will help travelers who are here for the World Cup, MLB All-Star Game and numerous celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The center will offer itinerary planning, ticketing, travel advice and souvenirs from queer-owned businesses. It will also feature exhibits on some of the city’s queer history, including the first LGBTQ+ sit-in at Dewey’s restaurant in 1965 and the Annual Reminders demonstrations outside Independence Hall from 1965 to 1969. The historical content was curated with community input in partnership with Mark Segal, founder of Philadelphia Gay News.
“Our city helped launch the fight for representation in media, shaped national policy, and created safe, visible spaces for our community,” Segal said in a statement. “Now, with the opening of the Philly Pride Visitor Center, Philadelphia proudly honors that legacy and reaffirms its commitment to those who call this community home.”
Visit Philadelphia said it was one of the first supporters for creating the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center in New York City, which was the first queer institution of its kind in the National Park System. Leaders said they’re eager to bring this support back home.
“For more than 20 years, Visit Philadelphia has worked to show LGBTQ+ travelers that they belong here,” said Angela Val, president and CEO of Visit Philadelphia. “This new center gives visitors and residents a place to connect with Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ history, discover affirming businesses and see how this city helped shape a national movement. It is both a resource hub and a testament to Philadelphia’s role in advancing LGBTQ+ rights.”
Visit Philadelphia and the Visitor Center said that the move is both an investment in its values and reflective of the strong support from queer tourists.
In July, St. Lucia’s courts struck down laws that criminalized consensual same-sex relations, mirroring similar 2022 rulings that eliminated discriminatory laws in Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados and St. Kitts and Nevis.
These developments represent major advances for English-speaking Caribbean islands, which have long carried some of the most discriminatory laws in the Western Hemisphere. It’s also good news for LGBTQ+ travelers, according to travel advisor Scott Wismont, founder of Rainbow Getaways.
“This evolution means we now have a much broader portfolio of destinations we can confidently recommend,” he said. “We can better guide clients to places where they will feel safe and celebrated.”
Reason to Celebrate
Resorts in St. Lucia were among the first in the tourism sector to praise the recent ruling.
“This year’s St. Lucia Pride carries such profound significance, marking the first since this historic shift toward equal rights for the LGBTQ community,” said Benjamin DiCosta, vice president of marketing and communication for Windjammer Landing Resort & Residences. “To witness the pride flag raised officially for the very first time in St. Lucia was a powerful and moving moment.”
Other St. Lucia hoteliers echoed positive sentiments.
“We have always welcomed LGBTQ+ travelers at both Anse Chastanet and Jade Mountain,” said Karolin Troubetzkoy, executive director of marketing and operations at both resorts. “We wholeheartedly welcome St. Lucia’s recent step to decriminalize same-sex relations. It’s a meaningful and long-overdue development that reinforces the message of inclusion and respect.”
A Region in Transition
Anti-LGBTQ+ laws are a holdout from the British colonial era, notes Thomas Julian, partner and head of Caribbean programs at Holborn Assets, a global financial services company with LGBTQ+ people among its clients.
“These laws, as are all the anti-LBGTQ laws in the Caribbean, are artifacts of the colonial era and are seldom, if ever, enforced,” he said. “However, the fact that they are still on the books is a travesty to justice, society and humanity. My hope is that now that these countries are moving forward and modernizing legislatively, they will do so policy-wise as well, and permit LGBTQ couples and families to apply together via their respective passport programs, which are what I sell.”
Mark Brantley, the premier of Nevis, is among the tourism leaders praising recent progress.
“The colonial-era laws criminalizing same-sex relationships were struck down by our courts as unconstitutional, a ruling that brings Nevis into alignment with both our values and our laws,” he said. “Across the English-speaking Caribbean, and particularly here in Nevis, there is a clear and prevailing sentiment of welcome for all travelers.” Dean Fenton, U.S. director of tourism for Antigua and Barbuda, strikes a similar tone.
“Antigua and Barbuda proudly welcomes all travelers, including those from the LGBTQ+ community,” he said. “While same-sex marriage is not yet legally recognized, symbolic ceremonies are celebrated on the island, and many of our hotels and resorts are well-versed in providing inclusive experiences.”
The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism, meanwhile, issued a statement confirming its goal of celebrating “diversity in all its forms” and its pride in being “a place where all visitors are welcome” — an attitude reflected in events such as Cayman Pride, which takes place every June, and the destination’s legal recognition of same-sex civil unions, which provide benefits similar to those of marriage.
Inclusivity as a Competitive Advantage
Decriminalization is an important step. But even after recent court rulings, Caribbean destinations still vary widely in terms of legal protections and rights for LGBTQ+ residents and visitors; not all recognize LGBTQ+ marriage or offer anti-discrimination protection, for example.
Some have a longer record of inclusivity than others, such as Puerto Rico, where same-sex marriage and same-sex adoption are legal and anti-discrimination legislation is in place. Discover Puerto Rico, the island’s destination marketing organization, even maintains a detailed LGBTQ+ travel section on its website.
“Puerto Rico has a vibrant LGBTQ+ culture that is not only visible but celebrated,” said José Arana, group marketing director for Discover Puerto Rico. “This is setting an example for the region, showing that when destinations embrace equality, they create an environment where all travelers feel welcome.”
Queer-friendly islands enjoy a distinct advantage in the tourism sector, he adds.
“Destinations that prioritize inclusivity have a clear competitive edge because they are opening their doors to a broader audience,” he explained. “Moreover, destinations that are safe and welcoming for LGBTQ+ travelers are often safe and welcoming for everyone, including women and solo travelers, making them more appealing across the board.”
May-Ling Chun, director of tourism for St. Maarten, agrees.
“Inclusive destinations certainly benefit from appealing to a wider potential customer base, and we recognize that being welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers is both a reflection of our values and a strength in today’s competitive tourism market,” she said. “While every nation in the Caribbean has its own cultural context, there is an increasing recognition that inclusivity is essential for both social and economic growth.”
Aruba, Curacao and St. Barts also rank high for inclusivity, with same-sex marriage among the legally protected rights. Hoteliers in those destinations showcase their welcoming attitudes in a variety of ways. Dreams Curaçao Resort, Spa & Casino, for example, is accredited with the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA).
“By embracing diversity and welcoming every guest, Aruba not only gains a distinctive advantage, but also reaffirms its promise to be a place where everyone feels at home,” said Jurgen van Schaijk, the hotel’s owner and managing director.
Acceptance of diversity is rooted in the public mindset in St. Barts, according to Alexandra Questel, president of the St. Barts Tourism Committee.
“St. Barts’ commitment to inclusivity isn’t just a policy; it’s part of our culture and way of life,” she said. “That openness resonates with visitors, whether they identify as LGBTQ+ or simply appreciate destinations that celebrate diversity.”
The Role of Travel Advisors
Travel advisors play a crucial role in guiding LGBTQ+ clients toward positive Caribbean vacation experiences, notes Wismont of Rainbow Getaways.
“Many clients view the Caribbean as a singular, homogenous destination, unaware of the vast differences in cultural norms, legal frameworks and local attitudes from one island to the next,” he said. “This is precisely where the expertise of an advisor becomes indispensable. We curate an experience that aligns with their need for safety and acceptance.”
Even in destinations such as Jamaica, where male same-sex intimacy is still illegal, it’s possible to find a welcoming, upscale experience, according to Wismont.
“The case of Jamaica is more complex,” he said. “While the country as a whole has a challenging reputation, we have seen an encouraging trend of resorts making an explicit commitment to being safe and affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ guests.”
Among the queer-friendliest hotels in Jamaica is Round Hill Hotel and Villas, according to Wismont. Josef Forstmayr, the hotel’s managing director, agrees about the island’s positive momentum, as evidenced by his involvement in local hotel associations and the Jamaica Tourist Board.
“That shows I’m not being marginalized just because I happen to be gay,” Forstmayr said. “It speaks volumes about the open-minded thinking of the political directorate — as long as you don’t put them on the spot when it comes to public opinion. That’s where we fail.”
The ability of hotels such as Round Hill to provide a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ travelers underscores the need for effective staff training. Forstmayr says diversity, non-discrimination and non-harassment is addressed early on with new hires.
Alaia Belize, an Autograph Collection property in Belize, takes a similar approach.
“We believe that true hospitality means creating a space where every traveler feels safe, celebrated and completely at home,” said Maria Novelo, marketing and communications manager for the hotel. “We are proud to carry forward a culture of inclusivity that welcomes LGBTQ+ guests with the same warmth and respect we extend to all.”
Your smartphone probably holds more personal information about you than any other device you own. So the last thing you’d want to do is hand over all that data to a stranger, especially when you’re traveling internationally.
The 4th Amendment of the US Constitution prevents “unreasonable searches and seizures” of personal property but the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has special authority to search devices crossing US borders via air, land, or sea. According to the CBP, in 2024, electronic device searches affected .01% of travelers at US ports of entry. Of those subjected to searches, more than 36,000 were not US citizens.
Today, phone searches at the US border are happening more often than they did last year. With that in mind, I’ll answer a few frequently asked questions about device searches and offer you a pre-travel device protection checklist.
Will US Customs Agents Search Your Phone?
Before I give advice to travelers, let’s talk about why border security searches happen. Here’s what CBP has to say: “Border searches of electronic devices are often integral to determining an individual’s intentions upon entry to the United States and thus provide additional information relevant to admissibility of foreign nationals under US immigration laws.”
The statement above is pretty non-specific and quite broad, right? That’s why it’s important to take these searches seriously. There aren’t hard rules for what constitutes benign or malicious intentions. It’s entirely up to the border protection officer.
Do You Have to Let US Customs Agents Search Your Phone?
To answer the question above: It depends. Are you a US citizen? US citizens must be let back into the country, so if you refuse a search, agents can let you go home while keeping your phone. Foreign travelers can be turned away at the border if they refuse to comply.
CBP says that if you are chosen for a device inspection and your phone is protected by a passcode or another form of security, “that device may be subject to exclusion, detention, or other appropriate action or disposition. Additionally, the traveler may face longer processing times to allow for CBP to access the contents of the device.”
What Are CBP Agents Looking for?
According to CBP, a “basic” electronic device search involves manually searching your phone. An agent can look through your device for just about any reason, but if they feel you or your data may be a “national security concern,” they’ll ramp up the search.
The next level calls for an “advanced” search, during which agents may connect other devices to your phone to view the data or make copies of it. You can read more about such investigations on the agency’s website.
Border security officers cannot access your live cloud data, so it’s smart to back up your devices to the cloud before crossing the border. More on that later.
If a CBP agent seizes your device, the EFF advises people to request Form 6051D, which is a custody receipt, to claim their device later. Again, US citizens do not have to comply with electronic device searches to enter the country, but foreign travelers do.
Assess Your Privacy Risks While Traveling
With a little preparation before you leave, you may be able to avoid hassle at the border. First, determine what you need to take with you. Do you really require multiple internet-connected devices on your trip? Depending on the nature of your travels, you may be able to get away with taking a burner phone with you instead of a smartphone packed with private data. A freshly wiped Chromebook or a tablet may also be a reasonable swap for a laptop in some circumstances.
Next, perform a personal risk assessment. Do you have a clean criminal record? Are you a US citizen? If you can answer yes to both questions, remember that the likelihood of a device search is pretty low. If you answered no to either of those queries, you may be picked for a search at the border, so be prepared.
Now that we’ve discussed who you are, let’s talk about what you do. Are you an activist, journalist, lawyer, politician, or anyone else who is at high risk for surveillance due to your job or online posts? If so, I highly recommend taking the steps listed below to secure your devices before you leave.
Before Crossing the Border, Do This
In the spirit of staying prepared, here are some suggestions for things to do to your devices before you travel into or out of the US:
Log Out of Your Accounts: If you plan to keep apps on your devices, log out of them first. Border officers may be able to search your devices, but they must be in airplane mode, as per the CBP’s rules. That means the agents can’t access your data stored in the cloud.
Back Up Your Computer and Phone: If you have a cloud storage account, back up your data to the cloud. That way, you have copies of everything you’re about to delete. It’s wise to make sure your device has the latest security updates, too, since those protections may make it harder for an officer to search the device thoroughly.
Deep Clean Your Devices: Remove any apps that you don’t want a border agent to ask you about. It’s a good idea to clear your browsing history, delete chat logs, and remove any sensitive contact information that you wouldn’t want someone else to find. Make sure to clear your Recently Deleted or Trash folders after you’ve removed the apps or files from your device.
Clear Your Messages: If you use a secure messaging app like Signal, remove yourself from group chats and turn on the disappearing texts feature.
Disguise Your Apps: Signal, WhatsApp, and other messaging services have very distinctive logos that may draw an officer’s attention. To combat this, you could change the look of the app’s logo on your devices’ home screens. For example, on my personal phone, Signal is represented by a picture of the Hamburglar. On iOS, the best way to change your icons is via the Shortcuts app. Android users will need to download an icon-changing app from the Google Play Store.
Disable Biometric Unlocks: Visit your phone’s Settings menu and disable face and fingerprint scanning, since officers can use those to force access to your device without much effort. This can be achieved by holding the phone up to a detainee’s face to open the device, or physically placing a person’s finger on the device reader to obtain a fingerprint scan. Keep in mind that though an officer cannot compel you to enter your passcode or PIN, if they seize your device, they have tools that may be able to eventually crack the lock.
Familiarize Yourself With Device Data Protection Modes: Android and iOS have built-in remote-wiping features, so it’s easy to disable or delete all data from a confiscated phone remotely. Get to know these features in your device’s Settings menu. Also, create a shortcut on your home screen to quickly wipe the device if necessary. This allows you to simply tap the shortcut and disable or completely wipe your device, depending on your preferences.You can find powerful data protection offerings on Android and iOS within your phone’s settings menu. Look for Advanced Protection mode on Android devices, and Advanced Data Protection mode within your iCloud settings on iOS devices. It’s a good idea to turn these modes on and keep them active throughout your trip (and maybe forever). These settings enable end-to-end encryption for your cloud accounts, so even Apple or Google cannot access most of the data stored there.
Tell Someone Where You’re Going: It’s a good idea to let family, friends, or even coworkers know that you’re traveling internationally. Make sure that someone will check to find out where you are if things go wrong during a border crossing. If you aren’t a US citizen, I recommend writing down contact information for an attorney who specializes in immigration or border security cases and keeping that information with you at all times.
Stay Safe While Traveling Overseas
A device search at the US border is not guaranteed, but we know it’s happening more often than it has in the past, so it’s always wise to take a few precautions to protect your privacy. Check out our other relevant guides, including how to prepare for a protest, turn off location services on your devices, and set up secret phone numbers. For more information about keeping your data to yourself, read our guide to completely disappearing online.
Uncover why Colombia is a must-visit for gay travelers. Explore destinations like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena, plus learn about Colombian culture, cuisine, and essential safety tips for gay travelers.
As a frequent traveler to Colombia who has explored the country’s iconic destinations and scouted out its gay scenes firsthand, I’ll share my experiences and insights to help you plan the perfect trip. Whether you’re curious about the bustling gay nightlife in Bogotá, the charming streets of Cartagena, or the colorful vibes of Medellín, I’ve got you covered. My guide will combine practical tips making it easier for you to discover Colombia’s inclusivity, charm, and adventure.
Please read then entire guide from Tim at Out In Mexico.
In a bid to attract high-value global investors and reduce its reliance on tourism, the Maldives has launched its first-ever investor visa program, allowing foreign nationals to secure long-term residency through investment in premium real estate.
The agreement to establish the program was signed with Henley & Partners during the Maldives–Singapore Business Forum 2025, held on Sentosa Island. It aligns with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s Vision 2040 strategy to build a resilient and diversified economy.
Real estate at the core of the new residency route
Under the new scheme, investors will be granted long-term residence in return for investment in approved real estate projects. The program will be backed by a strict due diligence process to ensure only reputable and eligible applicants are accepted, with final approvals resting with the Maldivian government.
Henley & Partners, which has designed similar programs globally, will advise the government on policy structure, compliance, and implementation. The firm has facilitated over USD 15 billion in foreign direct investment worldwide.
“The residence by investment program will provide state-of-the-art properties with the utmost privacy and exclusivity,” said Philippe Amarante, Managing Partner and Head of Government Advisory EMEA at Henley & Partners. “As a safe, stable, and peaceful island nation, the Maldives presents the ultimate hedge against geopolitical conflict or global pandemics.”
Government aims for long-term economic impact
Economic Development and Trade Minister Mohamed Saeed said the program aims to position the Maldives not only as a top-tier travel destination but also as a long-term investment hub.
“With this program, we aim to extend that legacy to discerning global investors who see value in our people, our potential, and our future,” said Saeed.
The government expects the initiative to stimulate growth in hospitality, services, and infrastructure, while supporting job creation and financial stability.
Henley & Partners will help finalise the policy framework and real estate listings. The program is expected to launch once regulatory approvals are in place.
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