A growing number of Americans living outside the U.S. are choosing to give up their citizenship. Each year, nearly 5,000 to 6,000 individuals formally renounce their American citizenship. This trend reflects rising concerns among expatriates about taxes, politics, and the broader state of the nation. According to recent surveys, almost half of Americans living abroad are now considering giving up their citizenship. The Greenback Survey found that the share of overseas Americans contemplating renunciation jumped from 30 percent in 2004 to 49 percent in 2025. The survey, conducted among roughly 1,100 respondents, revealed that U.S. tax obligations and domestic political issues are the main reasons driving this decision. Taxes remain the top concern for many Americans living overseas. Sixty-one percent of respondents said that the requirement to file annual U.S. income tax returns, no matter where they reside, creates significant stress. Expatriates also cited heavy penalties for non-compliance as a major challenge. Many report that this tax burden makes it harder to live comfortably abroad. It adds extra paperwork, financial planning, and constant attention to U.S. tax law. For some, the combination of annual filings and strict penalties outweighs the benefits of holding onto citizenship. U.S. politics is another key factor influencing renunciation. A smaller but growing portion of expatriates pointed to frustration with domestic political polarization and governance issues. Experts say this sentiment intensified during and after the Trump presidency. Events such as the Capitol riots have also contributed to a sense of political disillusionment. Many Americans abroad feel that their home country is increasingly divided. Concerns about voting rights and the perceived erosion of democratic norms further motivate some to consider renunciation. Experts suggest that the rise in Americans giving up citizenship reflects a wider sense of discontent both domestically and internationally. Many expatriates believe the U.S. is losing influence globally, and that this decline could continue. For some, renouncing citizenship is a way to simplify life, reduce tax obligations, and distance themselves from political instability. While the decision to renounce citizenship is deeply personal, the data indicates that it is becoming more common. Financial and political factors, combined with concerns about social stability, have made the U.S. citizenship status less appealing for a growing segment of Americans living abroad. As the number of Americans renouncing citizenship continues to rise, policymakers and financial planners may need to address the concerns of expatriates more directly. Simplifying tax obligations or reassessing enforcement measures could influence future trends. Meanwhile, overseas Americans are making choices that reflect both practical considerations and their views on the state of U.S. governance.