Why Golden Visas Are the New “It” Investment for Affluent Americans
I’d like to think I’ve travelled more than the average fellow. It’s been a major priority for me; to get out, see the world, meet new people, understand different cultures, eat different food and experience more and more every year. 30+ countries, averaged a flight a month for over a decade and having lived in numerous different countries now, with residency in two of them.
(🇦🇺 | 🇺🇸 | 🏴 | 🇨🇦 | 🇯🇵 | to name a few)
When I was younger, my travels were fuelled by where I could find the highest peak to climb, the country with the deepest snow, the beaches with the best surf breaks, the pubs with the best beer and the places with the most beautiful women.
Nowadays, it’s fuelled by life design.
- Security
- Flexibility
- Where do I pay the least taxes?
- Where do I have the highest quality of life?
- The ability to pivot in an unpredictable world.
Through all this, I’ve had the privilege of meeting an incredible amount of affluent individuals who called multiple countries home. The more I work with, and am surrounded by people of this status, the more I understand, not only why it’s growing so fast, but also how shockingly easy it is to obtain compared to what you might think.
Golden Visas are no longer just a “nice-to-have” luxury; they’ve become a strategic move for affluent people looking to diversify their portfolios and secure a foothold in global markets. And it’s not just about owning a villa with a great view (though, that’s a nice perk). Golden Visas are offering something much more.
Let’s unpack why investors are eyeing these golden opportunities and how to capitalize on the trend.
What’s a Golden Visa, Anyway?
In simple terms, a Golden Visa is a residency (and sometimes citizenship) program offered by countries in exchange for investment. That investment could be real estate, a business, or government bonds. It’s an investment that goes beyond returns — it’s access.
Example: If you invest $150,000 into a real estate deal or business in Costa Rica, You can become a permanent resident of the country.
With a Golden Visa, your clients can:
- Live abroad (even if it’s just for part of the year).
- Access global markets for business or investment.
- Secure tax advantages depending on the country.
- Provide educational opportunities for their families in top-tier schools.
It’s also a hedge against uncertainty. In a world where political and economic shifts feel more volatile than ever.
“A second residency or passport is like having an insurance policy for your lifestyle”
Why Golden Visas Are Trending with Affluent Americans
1. Political Shifts and Economic Uncertainty
Through MY experience, America is the MOST politically charged country I have ever been to in my life. And second place is not even in the same race. No matter the year, the person in office or current spot in a cycle, The US is the wild ,wild west of political drama and political extremists.
Many affluent Americans are looking for a Plan B for if/when it really hits the fan. Whether it’s concerns over taxes, regulations, or even social changes, a Golden Visa offers clients the flexibility to explore life beyond U.S. borders.
And they’re not alone. According to a recent study, applications for residency-by-investment programs increased by 30% in 2023. Countries like Costa Rica, Portugal, Spain, and Greece are topping the list for their favorable investment terms and lifestyle perks.
2. Diversifying Beyond Borders
Golden Visas are also a smart portfolio play. Real estate in high-growth markets like Costa Rica or Portugal isn’t just a lifestyle upgrade — it’s an asset with appreciation potential.
Did You Know? Property values in Portugal’s Golden Visa regions have risen by an average of 12% annually and 15% in Costa Rica since the program’s inception.
For clients with cash tied up in U.S. markets, international real estate offers diversification and a hedge against domestic volatility.
3. The Ultimate Status Symbol
Wealthy clients don’t just want returns; they want experiences. A Golden Visa isn’t just an investment; it’s a conversation starter, a status symbol, a story, a “Look at me and the level I’m on”.
It’s the same as having your friends over for dinner and your bright red Ferrari is sitting in the drive.
Except when you all sit down for that dinner, you get to casually mention you villa in Portugal or their beachfront property in Costa Rica. It’s not just about the property — it’s about the story, the lifestyle, and the exclusivity.
At Nova Haus, we see this firsthand every day. These investments aren’t just profitable — they’re personal, giving people a tangible connection to their wealth.
How to Position Golden Visas to Your Clients
As an advisor, your role is understanding your clients’ goals and offering solutions they didn’t know existed.
Here’s how to make Golden Visas a standout part of your value proposition with a concept I call the BFL!
1. Benefits
Explain how a Golden Visa aligns with their personal and financial goals. It’s not an expense — it’s an investment in their freedom, lifestyle, portfolio and legacy.
2. Flexibility
Golden Visas often require minimal time spent in the country, so they’re perfect for clients who want options without uprooting their lives.
3. Legacy
For families, a Golden Visa can be a game-changer. It opens doors to international education, business opportunities, and long-term financial security.
Final Thoughts
Golden Visas aren’t a trend — they’re a movement. As an advisor, this is your chance to offer clients something unique, forward-thinking, and impactful.
At Nova Haus, we’re here to help you make that happen. From identifying the right markets to guiding clients through the investment process, we provide the expertise and tools you need to succeed.
“Wealth is about creating a life, not just a portfolio.”
As Always, Be Great!
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