How to Transfer Your Email to a Non-USA Email Account

Introduction

In today’s digital age, email is a crucial part of our online identity. Many users rely on popular email services like Gmail, Yahoo Mail, or Outlook, which are based in the United States. However, due to privacy concerns, government regulations, or personal preferences, some users may wish to transfer their email accounts to a non-USA-based provider. This guide will walk you through the steps of transitioning from a USA email account to a non-USA email provider, providing practical examples and a list of European email services to consider.

Why Transfer to a Non-USA Email Provider?

1. Privacy and Data Protection

• The USA is subject to the CLOUD Act, which allows government agencies to access stored data from US-based service providers.
• The European Union enforces GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation), which provides stricter privacy protections for user data.

2. Avoiding Data Tracking

• Many US-based email providers track user activity to serve targeted ads.
• European email providers often focus on privacy and do not rely on advertising revenue.

3. Better Security Practices

• Some non-US email providers offer end-to-end encryption and better security features.

4. Geopolitical Considerations

• Some users may prefer to use a provider that is not subject to US government surveillance policies.

Choosing a Non-USA Email Provider

Here are some secure and reliable non-USA email providers, primarily based in the European Union:

1. ProtonMail (Switzerland)

• End-to-end encryption.
• Based in Switzerland, outside of US and EU jurisdiction.
• Offers both free and paid plans.

2. Tutanota (Germany)

• Encrypted emails with a zero-knowledge architecture.
• Fully GDPR-compliant.
• Open-source and independent.

3. Mailbox.org (Germany)

• Privacy-focused with strong encryption.
• No ads, no tracking.
• Business-friendly with custom domains.

4. Posteo (Germany)

• Completely anonymous sign-up and payment options.
• Strong privacy policies.
• Affordable pricing.

5. StartMail (Netherlands)

• Created by the team behind Startpage, a privacy-focused search engine.
• Offers disposable email aliases for extra security.

6. Mailfence (Belgium)

• Includes PGP encryption for secure emails.
• Supports two-factor authentication (2FA).
• GDPR-compliant and no third-party tracking.

7. Runbox (Norway)

• Secure and environmentally friendly email service.
• Hosted in Norway, with strong privacy protections.
• Supports custom domains and business plans.

Steps to Transfer Your Email Account

Step 1: Create an Account with a New Provider

• Choose a non-USA email provider from the list above.
• Register for a new email account.
• Enable security features such as two-factor authentication (2FA).

Step 2: Backup Your Current Emails

• If using Gmail, go to Google Takeout to export your emails.
• For Outlook, use the Outlook PST export feature.
• Save important attachments separately.

Step 3: Forward Incoming Emails

• Set up email forwarding from your USA-based email account to your new non-USA account.
• In Gmail: Go to Settings > Forwarding and POP/IMAP > Add a forwarding address.
• In Outlook: Go to Settings > Mail > Forwarding.

Step 4: Notify Contacts of Your New Email Address

• Send an email to important contacts informing them about the transition.
• Update your email address on websites and services you use.

Step 5: Update Online Accounts

• Change your email on critical accounts such as banking, social media, and subscriptions.
• Use a password manager to track updated credentials.

Step 6: Import Old Emails

• Many email services allow importing old emails via IMAP or manual upload.
• ProtonMail and Tutanota have migration tools for easier transfer.

Step 7: Close or Maintain the Old Account

• Decide whether to keep your old email for reference or delete it.
• If deleting, ensure all critical data has been migrated.

Conclusion

Transferring your email from a USA-based provider to a non-USA service can improve privacy, security, and data protection. European email providers offer strong encryption and GDPR compliance, making them excellent choices for users looking for greater digital privacy. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully transition to a secure and reliable non-USA email provider with minimal disruption.