Growing Interest in ‘Golden’ Visas Among America’s Elite

Wealthy Americans are increasingly turning to ‘golden’ visa programs, seeking new opportunities in attractive locations. This trend is particularly evident in the Caribbean, where countries like Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia have become popular destinations. These islands offer citizenship-by-investment (CBI) programs, often referred to as “golden passports,” which allow individuals to obtain citizenship through financial investment.

Investment Options for Citizenship

The CBI programs in these Caribbean nations provide two primary investment routes for obtaining citizenship. The first option involves a direct contribution to the government, known as the Economic Diversification Fund route, with a minimum investment of $200,000 for a single applicant. The second option requires the purchase of pre-approved real estate at a minimum value of $200,000. These programs are attractive due to the absence of wealth, gift, inheritance, foreign income, or capital gains taxes in many of these islands.

Visa-Free Travel and Dual Citizenship Benefits

One of the significant advantages of these ‘golden’ visas is the ability to retain existing citizenship while gaining visa-free entry to numerous countries worldwide. This dual citizenship option is particularly appealing to high-net-worth individuals seeking greater global mobility and security.

Surge in Demand from U.S. Buyers

According to Nadia Dyson of Luxury Locations Real Estate in Antigua, there has been a notable increase in demand for properties linked to citizenship. She reports that up to 70% of current buyers are seeking citizenship, with most coming from the United States. This shift from lifestyle buyers to those interested in CBI reflects a broader trend among affluent Americans.

New Zealand’s Attractive Visa Options

In addition to the Caribbean, New Zealand has also seen a rise in interest from American investors. The country’s “Active Investor Plus” visa has become more accessible following recent changes that removed language requirements and reduced residency time obligations. In just three months, New Zealand received 189 golden visa applications, nearly half of which were from U.S. citizens.

Global Uncertainty Drives Demand for Safe Havens

Former New Zealand Minister for Economic Development Stuart Nash highlights the growing appeal of these visas amid global uncertainty. Factors such as geopolitical tensions and changes in U.S. administration contribute to this trend as individuals seek safe havens for themselves and their families.