Wealth alone no longer guarantees security. Political unrest, higher tax compliance, and climate risks, have made mobility an essential factor for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs). Today, global mobility offers ways of preserving wealth, protecting family, and accessing investment opportunities worldwide.
As the Global Citizen Solutions report on Global Wealth Mobility points out, there are various ways for HNWIs to secure their future, with a variety of residency and citizenship options to fit your needs.
The New Imperative: Wealth Mobility
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the vulnerability of even the ultra-wealthy, including travel bans and border closures, leaving millions stranded, unable to access assets, healthcare, or family. The pandemic made it apparent that tying one’s wealth to a single country came with big risks.
Additionally, geopolitical events, regulatory shifts, and trade wars, have pointed out many regulatory and political risks, which directly impact personal wealth. Couple this with banking restrictions and sanctions, and one begins to see the importance of holding alternative residencies or second citizenships.
But it’s not only for those from at-risk countries, HNWIs from stable countries are increasingly looking into global mobility to maintain financial freedom and diversify their portfolios.
Key Drivers Behind HNWIs Obtaining Other Residencies
01/ Geopolitical and compliance risks
Sanctions and global conflicts are two of the main drivers behind HNWIs looking into obtaining a second residency. From wars and restricted access to international banking, wealthy individuals are seeking stability in an ever-changing global landscape. Based on our Global Intelligence Unit’s briefing on Global Wealth Mobility:
- Banks often practice “compliance overreach,” rejecting accounts for clients from high-risk countries like Russia, Venezuela, and Hong Kong.
- Over €21.5 billion in Russian private assets have been frozen in the EU, with additional billions blocked globally.
By 2025, the global population of high-net-worth individuals is expected to surpass 25 million. However, between 7.5 and 10 million of them live in countries facing severe geopolitical and economic instability, including sanctions, capital controls, and restricted mobility. For example:
- Over 1.5 million HNWIs come from heavily sanctioned nations such as Russia, China, and Iran, where they face asset freezes, banking restrictions, and travel bans.
- Around 5 million more are based in countries with low visa mobility, such as Nigeria, India, and Pakistan, making them vulnerable to border closures and limited global access.
- A further 3-4 million reside in economically unstable regions like Argentina, Lebanon, and Venezuela, contending with currency collapse, property confiscation, and social unrest.
For these individuals, investment migration and offshore diversification are not merely strategies but essential means of protecting their wealth and freedom.
To navigate these challenges, seeking alternative residency and citizenship provides HNWIs with the ability to find legal pathways to access international markets, investment opportunities, and banking systems that may otherwise not have been available.
02/ Geographical asset diversification
HNWIs are always on the lookout to diversify their assets. Having assets across multiple locations reduces the risks and exposure to local political and economic volatility.
Some popular options for investors looking to diversify their portfolio include:
- Green bonds and buying property in Europe
- Private equity and tech in the US
- Venture capital in Southeast Asia
- Real estate and company formation in the UAE
Geographical diversification is not just an investment strategy, it’s security against volatility, regulatory uncertainty, and crises, as seen with the COVID-19 pandemic. It came without warning, bringing many industries to their knees. Global pandemics are rare, but when they happen, knowing your finances are secure in a variety of locations can bring peace of mind.
Laura Madrid-Intelligence Unit Research Lead at Global Citizen Solutions highlights the shift in global mobility:
Residency trends are reshaping global wealth mobility by driving a shift from single-destination relocation to multi-jurisdictional strategies (Geoarbitrage). High-net-worth individuals and families are no longer seeking just a second residence or passport, they are intentionally building mobility portfolios that combine tax optimization, legal protection, lifestyle advantages, and geopolitical flexibility.
03/ Tax optimization
Tax compliance is an ever-growing consideration for HNWIs, with strict reporting, high transparency standards, and evolving laws on the horizon each tax season. Finding a way to navigate one’s financial circumstances is a constant consideration.
That’s where residency and citizenship programs come in, with certain jurisdictions such as Malta, the UAE, and Monaco offering favorable tax infrastructures. These areas are becoming increasingly popular among HNWIs as the need for tax efficiency grows.
HNWIs often have structures including trusts, businesses, and annuities allowing them to grow their wealth. These structures are luckily able to cross borders efficiently, making a global tax structure obtainable.
Additionally, non-domicile programs and flat-tax regimes further enhance how HNWIs can navigate their taxes without breaking any tax compliance laws and regulations.
04/ Climate and environmental security
Climate change is a serious consideration with climate risks increasingly shaping decisions on where to obtain residency. From extreme weather, water scarcity, and rising sea levels, HNWIs are seeking stability and a high quality of life for themselves and future generations.
HNWIs are looking for areas with sustainable infrastructure and climate resilience to secure their future. Some popular areas offering this include Uruguay, New Zealand, and Scandinavia.
Additionally, the race towards a world run on renewable energy is on, with many HNWIs looking to invest in environmental security and renewable energy. Not only are these sectors in high demand, but they aid in reducing the pressure on the environment, positively impacting future generations.
05/ Lifestyle and family considerations
Mobility isn’t only about money; it’s about freedom and quality of life. Families prioritize access to:
- Global education systems
- High-quality healthcare
- Safer living environments
- Opportunities for children’s work or study abroad
Residency or citizenship programs provide legal pathways for relocation, enabling HNWIs to plan for multigenerational mobility and lifestyle flexibility. As João Pacheco Gonçalves – Head of Institutional Client Relations at Global Citizen Solutions highlights:
“For many of our clients, it’s also about future-proofing wealth. They want to make sure their children and grandchildren have the same opportunities they did, no matter how the world changes. Access is another motivator: access to new markets, better education, healthcare, or simply the ability to pivot if their home country stops offering those opportunities.”
Where HNWIs Are Moving
HNWIs target jurisdictions that combine political stability, favorable tax regimes, strong legal frameworks, and lifestyle benefits. Here are some of the most popular options.
Europe: Stability, access, and lifestyle appeal
Europe continues to be a top destination for HNWIs seeking a blend of political stability, robust legal systems, and a refined quality of life. Countries such as Portugal, Malta, Greece, and Italy have established themselves as premier hubs for residence and citizenship by investment (RCBI) programs.
These nations not only offer attractive tax incentives and investor-friendly regulations but also grant access to the European Union’s single market and the Schengen travel area, providing unmatched mobility and security.
Some of the most popular residency by investment options include:
The Portugal Golden Visa program offers residency to qualifying investors and their family members. Successful applicants can enjoy visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Area, a variety of investment opportunities, family inclusion on the application, and access to Portugal’s education and healthcare systems.
The Greece Golden Visa offers non-EU/EEA nationals and their family members permanent residency in Greece in exchange for a qualifying investment (minimum €250,000 in real estate). Applicants can benefit from access to excellent healthcare, visa-free travel in the Schengen Zone, the non-dom tax regime, high returns on investments, and no stay requirements.
The Italy Golden Visa offers non-EU citizens residency by investment in stunning Italy. Investors and their families can savor the fabulous culture, food, and people of Italy in
exchange for a qualifying investment into the country. Applicants have access to Italy’s strong education system, accessible healthcare, and a stable EU economy.
The MPRP is a permanent residency by investment program allowing non-EU nationals to obtain residency in Malta through making a qualifying investment. Key benefits include no minimum stay requirements, a favorable tax environment, access to high quality education and healthcare, and visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone.
Caribbean: Pioneers of citizenship by investment
As the first region to offer citizenship by investment, it is no surprise that the long-standing offerings of the Caribbean remain popular among HNWIs. From Dominica and St. Kitts and Nevis to Antigua and Barbuda and St Lucia, the Caribbean is a hub for the affluent. The Caribbean is known for its fast-track access to second citizenship (within 6-12months) and global mobility through extensive visa-free travel networks. Plus, when combined with greater international reach, legal flexibility, and high personal security, the Caribbean is a top wealth migration destination.
To help you find the best option for your needs, here is an insightful comparison of Caribbean Citizenship by Investment programs.
USA: Stability, opportunity, and innovation
The United States remains a top destination for HNWIs seeking a combination of political stability, strong legal protections, and world-class economic opportunities. The US offers a diverse economy, leading universities, and globally recognized healthcare systems. HNWI can access both a secure environment for wealth preservation and extensive avenues for business growth.
The introduction of the US Gold Card has presented an opportunity for HNWIs looking to obtain residency in the US. Set to replace the EB-5 Visa, the Gold Card is available for an investment of $1 million in the US economy. Another option is the Trump Platinum Card, available to those who invest a minimum of $5 million. Both options allow investors to reside in the US for 270 days a year without triggering US taxes on worldwide income.
Middle East: The UAE’s tax advantage
The United Arab Emirates stands out in the Middle East as a global wealth hub. There is zero personal income tax, strategically neutral regulations, and a strong financial sector, making the UAE a top choice among investors.
Investors from India, Russia, and Western nations are growing in the UAE. Not only for the financial incentives, but for the high quality of life on offer thanks to the world-class amenities and fantastic business opportunities.
The most popular area being Dubai, which offers fantastic international schooling, a high quality of life, and remains the leading center for wealth management and investment migration.
The Golden Visa UAE has made things a lot easier for HNWIs to invest in the country, offering residency by investment through options like real estate and business formation. There are also additional categories for those with exceptional talents that can further the country’s skills market.
The Oman Golden Visa is also becoming popular, with the program being updated in 2025 to attract foreign investors. One of the main benefits is the affordable entry point of OMR 250,000 (~USD 650,000) for the five-year residency program. Investment options include real estate, government bonds, or business investment.
The Saudi Premium Residency program was designed to attract foreign investors and skilled professionals. One of the key benefits is the long-term residency status, which provides greater flexibility for living, working, and investing in the Kingdom. Applicants can choose from investment options such as real estate, business ventures, or financial assets, making it an attractive option for those seeking a stable presence in Saudi Arabia.
Asia-Pacific: Stability and business opportunity
The Asia-Pacific regions of New Zealand, Singapore, and Australia are some of the most sought-after jurisdictions for HNWIs. Offering, transparent regulations, political stability, and above all, sustainable development.
Singapore’s reputation as a financial powerhouse with low corruption and a pro-business environment continues to attract entrepreneurs and investors alike. Meanwhile, Australia and New Zealand offer high living standards, climate resilience, and pathways to permanent residency for qualified investors, making them safe havens for wealth preservation and long-term family planning.
Emerging Markets: Find stability and sustainability
Emerging destinations like Panama, Argentina, Mauritius, Chile, and Uruguay are increasingly capturing the attention of globally mobile investors. Known for their political stability, environmental safety, and favorable investment climates, these countries offer a compelling mix of opportunity and resilience.
Mauritius has positioned itself as a financial gateway to Africa and Asia, while Chile and Uruguay stand out in Latin America for their strong institutions, transparent governance, and high standards of living. Panama attracts investors with its strategic location, modern infrastructure, and favorable tax policies, making it a hub for business and trade in the region. Argentina offers diverse opportunities in real estate, agriculture, and natural resources, alongside a growing focus on innovation and entrepreneurship.
For HNWIs seeking both diversification and long-term stability, these markets represent promising alternatives to traditional wealth hubs.
Recommendations for HNWIs
For HNWIs considering a second citizenship or residency, here are some helpful recommendations to get you started.
1. Diversify assets geographically: Spread holdings across politically stable, low-tax, and high-growth regions.
2. Evaluate alternative citizenship or residency programs: It’s important to compare the various citizenship and residency programs to see which fit your needs and wants. Working with a trusted global mobility partner like Global Citizen Solutions is highly recommended to ensure you find the best solution for your needs.
3. Factor climate resilience into decisions: Climate change should remain a consideration in your decision. As the environment changes, so do the risks with various investment opportunities. Choose jurisdictions with environmental stability and sustainable infrastructure.
4. Plan for regulatory and tax changes: While it’s impossible to predict what the future holds, it’s essential that you use compliant structures to optimize fiscal outcomes and preserve capital. Choosing a residency program that factors in tax considerations as well as choosing a country that has had long term tax efficiency is a good way to safeguard your wealth.
5. Integrate mobility into legacy planning: Planning ahead is important, whether it’s for business or family. You should consider your future generations when making your decision by ensuring the next generation has access to global education, work, and investment opportunities.
It’s important that potential investors start looking at opportunities as soon as possible to safeguard their assets.
As João Pacheco Gonçalves emphasizes:
“If things continue in this direction, wealth mobility will shift from being a luxury to almost a necessity. Even middle-high and high-net-worth individuals will see it as the only way to preserve their wealth. It’s already becoming the norm. Twenty or thirty years ago, clients held most of their assets in their own jurisdiction. That’s no longer the case, and the difference will just keep growing.”
The Future of Global Mobility
As global mobility becomes more popular among HNWIs, regulations and laws are changing rapidly to accommodate the change. Countries don’t want to be left behind.
As Laura Madrid points out:
Over the next few years, we believe global mobility will professionalize and scale even more. More countries will link investment-migration to development goals (infrastructure, climate resilience, debt reduction), while tightening governance. Small states already show how these programs can be fiscally meaningful. For example, Citizenship by Investment inflows near 10% of GDP in Dominica, so expect wider use with stronger safeguards and impact frameworks.
To Sum Up
Mobility is no longer a luxury, it’s an essential part of protecting wealth, family, and freedom. The ability to relocate, diversify, and invest across borders is now a defining pillar of modern wealth strategy.
Global disruptions highlight that where you hold assets and legal status are as important as what you hold. HNWIs embracing legal, geographic, and financial flexibility are better positioned not just to survive crises but to seize new opportunities and future-proof their legacy.