Americans Abroad
Estimates of the number of American citizens living abroad range from 4-10 million -- numbers that exceed the population of many states in the US. While the exact number may be elusive, what is clear is that on a daily basis Americans overseas are involved in de facto public diplomacy and represent America in myriad and many settings all over the world.
Americans Abroad Twitter
Thoughts from an American Abroad
AARO - Association of Americans Resident Overseas
Discover the New AARO Website!
AARO is happy to announce that our redesigned and upgraded website is now up and running. Click on www.aaro.org and explore its many new features and functionalities: clearer graphics, useful background on major problems, faster access to AARO position papers and past newsletter issues, and a brand-new forum page for members' input. The site provides a wealth of practical information on vital issues, and makes renewing your dues easier than ever.
The new website also opens up new chances for members all over the world to participate in and discuss AARO activities:
Website opportunities
* Forum moderators and discussion stimulators are needed for:
* General discussions
* AARO issues
* Country-specific discussions
* Bloggers for cities, regions, countries on issues pertinent to Americans
* Writers to contribute to our Perspectives from Abroad section
* Issue trackers to search and provide links to online articles and legislative activity
* Skills: Net savvy, good judgment, blogging or forum management experience
desired (but not necessary). Able to allocate the time necessary to be reliable
and current for the forum and issue tracking jobs.
* For more information, please contact AARO at aaro@aaro.org.
Meetup Organizers
* Location: Anywhere outside the U.S.
* Description: Start a Meetup group to introduce AARO to the
American community in your city. By organizing regular, informal
events (usually monthly), you'll get a chance to meet new people
and help build our membership base in a relaxed, friendly environment.
Visit AARO's Paris Meetup site to get a sense of how it works:
http://american.meetup.com/197/about/
* Skills: Outgoing, organized persons who are comfortable meeting new people.
Knowledge of AARO's issues, history, and accomplishments. You must be a
member of AARO to start an authorized AARO Meetup.
* For more information, please contact AARO at aaro@aaro.org.
Tax seminar also on the AARO website
Those who were not able to attend the 2009 tax seminar the entire presentation was recorded and the video can be viewed by clicking on About AARO, then Events, then Event Videos. Members must log in to view this and other member-only content.
If you haven't already registered for the site you won't be able to log in, so we encourage you to register!
The new website also opens up new chances for members all over the world to participate in and discuss AARO activities:
Website opportunities
* Forum moderators and discussion stimulators are needed for:
* General discussions
* AARO issues
* Country-specific discussions
* Bloggers for cities, regions, countries on issues pertinent to Americans
* Writers to contribute to our Perspectives from Abroad section
* Issue trackers to search and provide links to online articles and legislative activity
* Skills: Net savvy, good judgment, blogging or forum management experience
desired (but not necessary). Able to allocate the time necessary to be reliable
and current for the forum and issue tracking jobs.
* For more information, please contact AARO at aaro@aaro.org.
Meetup Organizers
* Location: Anywhere outside the U.S.
* Description: Start a Meetup group to introduce AARO to the
American community in your city. By organizing regular, informal
events (usually monthly), you'll get a chance to meet new people
and help build our membership base in a relaxed, friendly environment.
Visit AARO's Paris Meetup site to get a sense of how it works:
http://american.meetup.com/197/about/
* Skills: Outgoing, organized persons who are comfortable meeting new people.
Knowledge of AARO's issues, history, and accomplishments. You must be a
member of AARO to start an authorized AARO Meetup.
* For more information, please contact AARO at aaro@aaro.org.
Tax seminar also on the AARO website
Those who were not able to attend the 2009 tax seminar the entire presentation was recorded and the video can be viewed by clicking on About AARO, then Events, then Event Videos. Members must log in to view this and other member-only content.
If you haven't already registered for the site you won't be able to log in, so we encourage you to register!
2008 Post Election Survey
Results of the Overseas Vote Foundation ("OVF") 2008 Post Election Survey are available. Here's the link:
https://www.overseasvotefoundation.org/files/OVF_2009_PostElectionSurvey_Report.pdf
https://www.overseasvotefoundation.org/files/OVF_2009_PostElectionSurvey_Report.pdf
U.S. Congress' Americans Abroad Caucus
In February 2007, Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) and Congressman Joe Wilson (R-SC) formed the "Americans Abroad Caucus" to focus on issues impacting American citizens living and working abroad.
Please support the effort and ask your Representative and Senators to join!
Please support the effort and ask your Representative and Senators to join!
- Support the Americans Abroad Caucus
- Write to your Representative and Senators and ask them to join the effort.
Champions for Americans Abroad
- Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney
- Co-Chair of House of Representatives Americans Abroad Caucus
- Congressman Joe Wilson
- Co-Chair of House of Representatives Americans Abroad Caucus
- Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide (AAFSW).
- Community resource for U.S. diplomatic families. A private, non-profit organization advocating for U.S. Foreign Service officers, spouses, and other family members. Information for State Department families about life overseas, spouse employment, unaccompanied tours, and living in Washington DC. Updated news about the American diplomatic community.
- FAWCO - U.S. Liaison
- The Federation of American Women's Clubs Overseas, Inc. ("FAWCO") is an international organization of more than 75 member clubs and associations with a combined membership of approximately 18,000 in 35 countries. FAWCO's U.S. Liaison promotes the rights of U.S. citizens living abroad, dealing with problems they encounter, helping them to be informed and responsible citizens.
- Beyond Borders
- "Beyond Borders: Portraits of American Women from around the World celebrates seemingly ordinary American women living abroad, who have assimilated into the culture of their host nations and achieved something meaningful in their chosen path... In the present environment of international discontent with the US, these women shed light on the positive side of the American spirit and culture."
- Inside a U.S. Embassy
- THE book on "How the Foreign Service Works for America". A helpful guide for anyone who may come into contact with U.S. embassy personnel overseas, true champions for Americans abroad, and for anyone interested in America's role in the world.
Overseas Americans Week
A Week in Washington, DC
- Overseas Americans Week - A Week In Washington DC
- An annual program that embodies the commitment of overseas Americans organizations to maintaining an ongoing and current dialogue with legislators and agencies who directly affect the lives of Americans living abroad.
- Mr. Coyne Goes to Washington
- The Association of Americans Resident Overseas (AARO) is hosting "Mr. Coyne Goes to Washington" this week to blog Overseas Americans Week (OAW) 2008 between now and its conclusion on April 18, 2008. OAW is the annual lobbying visit to Washington by AARO, American Citizens Abroad (ACA) and the Federation of American Women's Clubs Overseas (FAWCO).
Burning Questions
- Harnessing the power of Americans abroad - Way Beyond the Beltway
- How should the United States government utilize this invaluable community and engage it continuous dialog so that we might act and interact more effectively in our respective host countries, i.e. with the respective governments, interest groups, organizations, and individuals, and thereby enhance America's world standing and trade opportunities while modeling American ideals?
Voting from Abroad
Registration, Abenstee Ballots and Information about Candidates and Issues
- How to vote in U.S. elections
- The Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions the Overseas Vote Foundation receives from voters.
- Overseas Vote Foundation
- OVF provides secure, non-partisan Internet-based voter registration services and support for U.S. overseas and military voters.
- Project Vote Smart - American Government, Elections, Candidates and Voting
- A collaborative project of thousands of citizens (conservative and liberal) working together, researching the backgrounds and records of political candidates and elected officials to discover their voting records, campaign contributions, public statements, biographical data and evaluations of them generated by over 100 competing special interest groups.
- canivote.org
- If you don't know where to go to cast your ballot on Election Day, or... If you're not sure if you are registered to vote in your home state...
You can find out here. - VOTE411.org
- All the election information you need from the League of Women Voters
- One in 5 overseas Americans unable to vote in elections - International Herald Tribune
- One in five Americans overseas who sought to vote in the midterm elections in November was unable to do so, often because the ballot arrived late, or not at all, according to a survey.
- RULES OF THE GAME: Enfranchising Overseas Voters
- National Journal sums up the the obstacles to voting from abroad, the solutions being offered by the Overseas Vote Foundation, and legislative efforts to craft a uniform approach to overseas voting.
- Operation Bravo
- The Operation BRAVO Foundation exists to help disenfranchised U.S. overseas civilian and military voters effectively exercise their right to reliably cast a secure and private ballot.
- Overseas Vote Foundation's YouTube Channel
- Overseas Vote Foundation has posted video from the Second Annual UOCAVA Summit on its YouTube channel. You can see most of the speeches and remarks here. http://www.youtube.com/user/OverseasVote
- State Voter Registration Verification Websites
- The Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP)has complied links to the states and territories that allow you to check your voter registration status online.
Express Your Vote - FedEx your Ballot Home in Time
All overseas voters should know about the Express Your Vote ballot return program which is underway now. The program is provided by Overseas Vote Foundation and supported by FedEx in 89 countries. It was well researched with all states prior to launch, and voters can see on the front page www.overseasvotefoundation.org/expressyourvote the list of states that are participating is extensive. (The only state that does not accept express mail ballots is Alabama.)
With Express Your Vote, voters are instructed to staple one copy of the Air Waybill to the ballot envelope - it functions as the postmark. This is known and accepted by all participating states. The program offers highly-discounted rates from Canada, Latin American, Europe and the Middle East. Free shipping is available from 14 Asian countries, Australia and New Zealand.
These services at these rates, including in many countries, at-your-doorstep-pick-up are not usually available to individuals overseas.
Voters can track their ballots through Express Your Vote and will receive an automatic confirmation of delivery.
Please note: It is very important that all overseas Americans groups support and communicate about Express Your Vote to their member voters. Interest and use of the program will send a very strong message to all express courier companies that this is a good thing to do - to support U.S. overseas voters! Lack of use will send the message that is not needed or appreciated and will affect future willingness on the part of FedEx and other courier companies to invest in similar actions in future elections.
With Express Your Vote, voters are instructed to staple one copy of the Air Waybill to the ballot envelope - it functions as the postmark. This is known and accepted by all participating states. The program offers highly-discounted rates from Canada, Latin American, Europe and the Middle East. Free shipping is available from 14 Asian countries, Australia and New Zealand.
These services at these rates, including in many countries, at-your-doorstep-pick-up are not usually available to individuals overseas.
Voters can track their ballots through Express Your Vote and will receive an automatic confirmation of delivery.
Please note: It is very important that all overseas Americans groups support and communicate about Express Your Vote to their member voters. Interest and use of the program will send a very strong message to all express courier companies that this is a good thing to do - to support U.S. overseas voters! Lack of use will send the message that is not needed or appreciated and will affect future willingness on the part of FedEx and other courier companies to invest in similar actions in future elections.
Way Beyond the Beltway
A blog for and about Americans abroad
U.S. Government and Public Policy
Useful U.S. government sites as well as sites and organizations working to shape public policy -- particularly policies which impact Americans living overseas.
IRS Local Offices - International
The IRS has full-time permanent staff in 4 U.S. embassies and consulates. These offices have tax forms and publications, can help you with account problems, and answer your questions about notices and bills.1 point
USA.gov: The U.S. Government's Official Web Portal
The U.S. Government's Official Web Portal for all government transactions, services and information. It provides direct online access to federal, state, local and tribal governments.1 point
Democrats Abroad
The Democratic Party organization for more than seven million U.S. citizens living overseas.1 point
Travel.State.Gov
Information for U.S Citizens Traveling abroad as well as information for foreign Citizens trying to obtain a Visa to enter the U.S1 point
THOMAS - The Library of Congress
The Library of Congress THOMAS site is the source for federal legislative information.1 point
Counting Americans Abroad
- Americans Overseas in U.S. Censuses
- This report documents the treatment of Americans living overseas in the decennial censuses, particularly those conducted in the 20th century.
Debate
- Meanwhile: Who lives better? - International Herald Tribune
- A thoughtful and humorous OpEd on whether life is better in America or Italy...
- No taxation without representation - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
- "No taxation without representation" was a slogan in the period 1763-1775 that summarized a primary grievance of the American colonists in the Thirteen colonies. Today it's used by Washington, D.C. as part of the campaign for a vote in Congress. The phrase also appears on D.C. license plates. Should Americans abroad adopt this slogan?
Organizations for Americans Abroad
Women of the Harvest
Dedicated to serving and encouraging women in cros more...1 point
AOMDA - American Overseas Memorial Day Association
Founded in 1920 for the decoration, on Memorial Da more...1 point
Overseas Americans Week
A Week In Washington DC - Overseas Americans Week more...1 point
Federation of American Women's Clubs Overseas (FAWCO)
The Federation of American Women's Clubs Overseas, more...1 point
The Association of Americans Resident Overseas (AARO)
An organization representing the interests of Amer more...1 point
ACA American Citizens Abroad
The voice of Americans overseas. Serving and defen more...1 point
Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide: Information, resources, and community for U.S. diplomatic families.
Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwi more...0 points
American Overseas Network
0 points
Support Organizations for Americans Abroad
Support organizations for Americans abroad as comp more...0 points
Expatriates Website
meet expatriates in Dubai, Canada, Australia, as well more...0 points
Resources and Tools
OANDA - The Currency Site
Currency and foreign exchange rates.1 point
AnAmericanAbroad.com
AnAmericanAbroad.com is a hub for expats. Members more...1 point
Expatriate Communities
Worldwide directory of more than 100 countries wit more...1 point
International Country Calling Codes and World Time Zones
Find the international dialing code or time zone f more...1 point
Live, Study, Retire, Volunteer or Work Abroad
Global connections, newsletter for those seeking i more...1 point
Resources
Resources, tools, forums, etc. for expats
- Expat Focus
- News Information and Community for Expats
- Interexpat, your local expatriate community
- Interexpat, your local expatriate community
- Congress.org
- E-mail, call or write the President, Congress or state and local government based on your ZIP code. Find groups' Take Action alerts or create your own.
Registration with the Department of State
- Register with the U.S. State Department
- A free service provided by the U.S. Government to U.S. citizens who are traveling to, or living in, a foreign country. Registration allows you to record information about your residence or trip abroad that the Department of State can use to assist you in case of an emergency. Americans residing abroad can also get routine information from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Help
- American Domestic Violence Crisis Line
- A national non-profit organization with an international outreach that gives hope and provides resources to abused American women and children living overseas. Our goal is to empower these women by helping them make independent decisions to take whatever
- The Sunlight Foundation
- The Sunlight Foundation's goal is to use technology to enable citizens to learn more about what their elected representatives are doing, to help reduce corruption, ensure greater transparency and accountability by government, and foster public trust in the vital institutions of democracy.
- Official Tourism Site of Washington, DC
- Official visitor information for Washington, DC
- GovTrack.us: Tracking the U.S. Congress
- Track the issues in the United States Congress that interest you; with email updates and RSS feeds. Research legislation, voting records, etc.; Find your representative.
- The Green Papers: United States General Election 2008
- Facts, figures, and tidbits about the General Election, Primaries, Caucuses, Delegate selection plan, State and National Political Conventions, and Candidates.
Tips
- Tips for Americans Abroad
- The Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs publication for Americans considering residence abroad as well as for the millions of U.S. citizens
who are currently residing in a foreign country. - Meteoalarm
- Extreme weather alerts for Europe
- Americans Traveling Abroad
- The State Department's guide for traveling abroad including a link to "Foreign Entry Requirements".
Country Specific Sites
- AARO Prague - Current Events
- Founded in 1973, AARO's purpose is to secure, protect, and improve basic American rights for U.S. citizens overseas. The Prague chapter was started in 1992 soon after he Velvet Revolution and the end of communism. We are a not-for-profit, non-partisan, public service group with members active in industry, government service, education, law, the arts as well as retired persons.
- Expats in Sweden
- This lens is for fellow expatriates in Sweden, and for those interested in Sweden.
- The American Club of Sweden
- The Club's objective is to strengthen bonds between the United States and Sweden through networking, and the interchange of knowledge, customs and ideals. It plays an important role as an informal point of contact between various elements of the Swedish-American community, and provides frequent opportunities for interaction through its varied social programs.
- SIRAP - Stockholm International Researchers Association
- Democrats Abroad Sweden - Voting is easy
News
- Americans go abroad for new reality show
- "ABC is teaming with the Hell's Kitchen producer for a new unscripted show that has Americans head to foreign countries to compete in challenges that require them to adapt to a different culture. The show has been circulating under the title Big in Japan, though that might change as producers are considering other countries as well. ABC has given a series order for an unspecified number of episodes. (Hollywood Reporter)"
NPR - Top Stories
PBS - NewsHour Headlines
Washington Post
Latest News
New York Times
Latest News
Guestbook
Comments, suggestions, feedback...
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Donnette
Jul 2, 2011 @ 11:29 pm | delete
- Thank you for sharing your experiences and information on this lens. I have featured it on Ex Pats Right to Vote
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luckycharms Feb 8, 2011 @ 3:09 pm | delete
- Great lens, You cover a lot of resources on Americans living abroad. There are a lot of Americans living abroad. I didn't realize it was as high as 8 million. Does that include military?
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peterdahlen
Feb 9, 2011 @ 4:04 am | delete
- As I understand it, the number includes Americans serving in both the military and foreign service -- and their families as well, if they are with them.
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Mikayla Jul 13, 2009 @ 4:10 pm | delete
- For all of you who have relatives living abroad - I suggest using Zenofon VoIP services for dirt cheap calls directly from your cell phone - no downloads, no calling cards and no PINs needed. Plus you get a commission from all your referrals - and all their referrals for up to 1000 generations! Check their site for unbeatable rates to all popular destinations!
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annetteghallowell
Aug 2, 2008 @ 8:25 pm | delete
- As a new Ex expat, I appreciate all the information you provided. I used to be on the board for www. talesmage.com. I added their link. They offer what they call Real Post Reports which are written by expats themselves and a great realistic viewpoint to use as a resource before a move. 5* and a new favorite!
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Blogs
- ThinkProgress
- An excellent blog from the Center for American Progress Action Fund which "seeks to provide a forum that advances progressive ideas and policies."
by peterdahlen
As a United States Senate Judiciary Committee Counsel, Peter provided legal and legislative advice on a wide range of subjects. He has an insider's understanding... more »
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