Armand Arton, the 47-year-old CEO, founded the financial consulting company Arton Capital in 2006 to help various governments attract wealthy individuals to their countries through investment residency programs. He also assists affluent families in obtaining golden visas and passports. According to a report by Business Insider, Arton shared the top five countries that his clients are most interested in immigrating through investment: Hungary, Greece, Italy, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Antigua and Barbuda.
Over the past twenty years, there has been a surge in migration trends. Clients from all over the world seek to relocate due to various reasons, including security concerns and the desire for global mobility.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many American investors were unable to enter Europe, leading them to explore residency programs in European countries. Following the recent elections in France and the UK, millionaires from these countries are seeking to relocate. Here are the five countries that Arton’s clients are interested in for investment migration:
Hungary initiated a program in 2013 that allows investment in government bonds in exchange for citizenship, with the funds being repaid after five years. This year, the program has been revamped to focus on real estate investment, offering a residency card that can be renewed after ten years.
Hungary offers a European lifestyle with a high level of safety. The relatively affordable real estate market in Hungary presents significant investment opportunities. The political environment in Hungary is more stable compared to countries like Greece or Italy.
After residing continuously in Hungary for eight years and passing a local language test, individuals have the option to apply for citizenship.
Greece has seen an increase in investments recently. The investment program in Greece requires a minimum real estate investment of 250,000 euros, which was raised to 400,000 euros in early September.
The demand for Greek visas has surged, with applicants rushing to submit their requests before the price hike. The opportunity to easily enjoy Greece’s historic cities, beaches, and culture remains enticing regardless of the costs.
Greece is a popular tourist destination, and clients can generate income by renting out the properties they purchase.
The golden visa in Greece does not automatically grant work rights. Investors are not required to be employed by others, allowing them to establish and own their own businesses, creating job opportunities and benefiting Greek citizens.
Individuals who obtain residency through investment have rights similar to citizens. To obtain Greek citizenship, one must reside in the country for seven years and pass language and cultural knowledge tests.
Italy’s investment program has been lesser-known for a long time. The program requires direct investment in the economy, such as the stock market, rather than real estate, making it less popular.
However, since the instability caused by Brexit in Europe, Italy has become a more popular destination for super wealthy individuals. This is attributed to its surprising tax schemes for those seeking to become permanent residents.
Until August 2024, foreign income for applicants seeking Italian tax residency is taxed at a flat rate of 100,000 euros annually for 15 years, with certain exceptions.
The cap has now doubled to tax overseas global income of 200,000 euros annually. Wealthy individuals from other European countries such as the UK, France, and Germany are also interested in this 15-year program, eager to benefit from it.
The UAE has rapidly emerged as a country attracting wealthy individuals and investors.
Options for obtaining the golden visa in the UAE include investing at least 2 million dirhams in banks, investment funds, or real estate. The government can also nominate applicants to receive the golden visa.
Residency is valid for ten years, after which it must be renewed. The UAE has granted citizenship to some of the biggest investors. Arton’s company has collaborated with investors with significant economic contributions, earning them UAE passports as a reward.
The investment citizenship program in the UAE is not open to the general public, adding to its exclusivity and attractiveness. As of now, less than a hundred passports have been issued.
Having a UAE passport brings economic benefits, as foreign nationals typically can only purchase properties in designated areas. With a UAE passport, these restrictions no longer apply.
In the Caribbean islands, Antigua and Barbuda have attracted most of Arton’s company’s clients this year.
Ultra-high net worth individuals seek a unique program, which is why they are drawn to this destination. Antigua has also experienced remarkable economic growth, attracting brands and the tourism industry, with a focus on the development of luxury hotels.