Subject: Re: Best “escape” country for a US citizen
<< Are you pursuing citizenship in Portugal? With my English only language
issues I don’t think I could ever pass a citizenship test anywhere it’s not
done in English. >>

Yes, I can apply for Portuguese citizenship after living here for 5 years.

Regarding the language itself, I don't think you're giving yourself enough
credit. The level of proficiency is pretty basic. Thousands of immigrants,
including those who work as laborers, pass the government exams each
year. You have the option of signing up for the CIPLE exam whenever
you feel ready during your five year temporary residency -or- enrolling
in a government language class. I opted for the latter because it was
more fun and I made some new friends. After completing the A1/A2 level
(required for citizenship), I then applied and was accepted into the B1/B2
program, which I'll complete this month. In both courses I was the only
American student and enjoyed myself immensely.

<< Malta is 88% English speakers supposedly? I thought that would make
setting up banking much easier as forms seem to be in English also?
How was it for you setting up banking in Portugal? >>

Again, it's not the language barrier that's a problem for an American
setting up a bank account in Europe -- it's the draconian US regulations
that make bank officials reluctant to accept American clients.

I was able to handle all of this via a Zoom meeting with an attorney
and had everything set up before I arrived in Portugal.

-Rubic