Interest in golden visas has risen significantly in recent months, and the timing is no coincidence. With the UK moving ever-closer to its highly-anticipated Autumn Budget, millions around the country are worrying about how new tax laws might affect their income, investments and businesses.
However, now more than ever, another option exists. The rise in popularity of golden visas means high-net-worth individuals no longer have to stay in their country of citizenship, but can buy a ticket to live life (and pay taxes) abroad.
Golden Visa Interest Is Up 300%
And unsurprisingly, the idea is catching on. New analysis from Astons reveals that interest in the term ‘Investment Visa’ has grown by 377.8% in the past year (Oct 24-Oct 25). This has been driven by a growth of 324.2% in the past three months alone.
‘Residency by Investment’ has also seen a 238.3% uptick in search interest over the past 12 months, while ‘Citizenship by Investment’ has seen growth of 206.4%.
Meanwhile, interest in ‘Golden Visa’ has increased by 93.5%.
Italy And Greece Are Most Desirable
When it comes to specific golden visas that are the most popular, Italy has seen the biggest annual increase of 388.9%, helped by a 181% average increase in the past three months.
However, the biggest three-month increase is the ‘Greece Golden Visa’, rising by an incredible 304.7%, contributing to overall annual growth of 257.1%.
Interest also remains strong for ‘Portugal Golden Visa’ which has boomed by 189.8% in the past 12 months.
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Why Golden Visas Are Becoming So Desirable
The popularity of golden visas has risen as a result of tax uncertainty, lifestyle and economic factors.
For entrepreneurs that aren’t tied down to a specific place, golden visas provide a way for them to tap into new economies, access more favourable tax laws and even live in different countries.
And for many, a golden visa allows them to eventually access long-term residency or citizenship, which gives them even more flexibility and movement.
And when it comes to the countries in Europe leading the way, Greece is currently the standout. With minimum investment levels from around €250,000 and a non-dom tax regime that caps global income tax at €100,000 per year, it has become a popular route for those looking to access EU markets and benefit from generous tax breaks.
Why The UK Budget Is Fuelling The Growth
Ahead of the Autumn Budget, unsurprisingly, interest in golden visas is booming. There has been a lot of speculation around what the budget might bring, but some recent speculation includes:
- Income threshold freezes
- Adjustments to Inheritance Tax gifting
- New national insurance payments on investment or rental income
- Capital gains tax adjustments
- Property taxes
And even without all of these, the effect of threshold freezes, smaller allowances and increased national insurance mean that many are worried about the increased tax burden.
And business owners aren’t taking it lightly. Recent research shows that over 40% of UK business owners would consider moving their company abroad if capital gains tax rises. The UK has already seen an exodus of millionaires, so there’s no surprise that the pending budget is causing anxiety across the country.
Suzanna Uzakova, Senior Consultant for Residency and Citizenship Programmes at Astons, commented:
“When the world’s leading economies are facing such uncertainty, Golden Visas are increasingly recognised as powerful avenues towards securing financial and societal freedom, stability, and opportunity.
“With the UK preparing for another Autumn Budget that is likely to see additional taxes for the wealthiest people, we fully expect more and more HNWIs to start exploring emigration options, looking for new places to settle that are more empathetic to their aspirations and ambitions.”
Is This The Start Of A Wealth Migration?
The increase in golden visa interest isn’t just a reaction to the budget, it’s about how high-net-worth-individuals are looking for flexible ways to store their wealth long-term.
For some, that means tapping into other economies. For others, it’s about diversifying where they store their money.
What’s clear to see is that 2025 is set to be a big year for wealth migrations. And as the budget approaches, it will be interesting to see which economies become the most desirable – we will wait and see.
