As the possibility of another Donald Trump presidency looms, many American Democrats are looking to Europe for potential escape routes. Interest in “golden visas”—programs that allow individuals to gain citizenship or residency through substantial investments—has surged since the recent election, with high-net-worth individuals seeking alternatives to remaining in the US.
Golden visas, which often involve investments in real estate, government bonds, or startups, are attracting more American interest, according to migration consultants. Henley & Partners, a leading firm in the field, reported a nearly 400% increase in inquiries from US nationals during the election week, compared to the previous week.
However, most of these individuals are not planning to permanently relocate. “The main appeal is having an option, like an insurance policy,” explained Dominic Volek, head of private clients at Henley & Partners.
Arton Capital, another migration consultancy, also saw a significant spike in interest. The firm received more than 100 inquiries on the day after Trump’s victory was declared, five times their usual daily average. CEO Armand Arton noted that while few of these individuals will move abroad, most want the option as a backup. “We will definitely be very busy with the US market over the next six months,” he said.
In response to the growing demand, the Italian village of Ollolai, on the island of Sardinia, has launched an online campaign offering low-cost homes in hopes of attracting Americans seeking refuge abroad.
Rising Demand from Wealthy Americans
Golden visa programs have typically drawn individuals from emerging markets like Nigeria, China, and India, where political instability and economic challenges are common. However, the trend has shifted in recent years, with Americans increasingly turning to these options. According to Volek, the pandemic played a role, as COVID-19 travel restrictions highlighted the limitations many wealthy Americans faced despite owning homes in Europe or having private jets.
Since then, demand for golden visas has been climbing. A report from Henley & Partners noted that since 2020, US nationals have become the largest group of applicants for investment migration programs. The firm reported a 33% increase in inquiries from Americans this year, compared to the same period in 2023, with European countries being the top destinations.
Portugal’s Golden Residence Permit Program is particularly popular due to its relatively low investment threshold of €250,000 ($265,000), which supports cultural or artistic initiatives. This program also offers a path to European Union citizenship after five years—faster than programs in countries like Greece, Spain, and Italy, which require longer stays.
The ultra-wealthy—those with $50 million or more—tend to favor Malta and Austria, which offer more direct paths to citizenship, though at a much higher price. Malta’s program, for example, requires a non-refundable payment of €600,000 ($636,000) to the government, along with additional investments in real estate and charitable donations. Austria’s program demands a substantial economic contribution, usually starting at €3.5 million ($3.7 million).
David Lesperance, a specialist in immigration and tax advisory, said that in the past two weeks, he has seen an unprecedented surge in Americans seeking consultations. “I’m averaging three to four American clients per day who are serious about relocating,” he noted.
Golden Visas Beyond the Wealthy
While golden visas are out of reach for many ordinary Americans, interest in living abroad has surged on social media platforms. A recent YouTube video titled “Countries for Americans Who Want to Leave the US” has garnered over half a million views and thousands of comments, with many Americans seeking options for relocation. On Reddit, discussions about emigrating after the US election have attracted over 1,300 comments in less than two weeks.
Many of these individuals are not necessarily wealthy, but instead are motivated by concerns about their safety and livelihoods. Flannery Foster, an American living in Spain who helps others relocate, has heard from many people—particularly women, Black Americans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and parents of transgender children—who feel that their lives could be at risk under a second Trump presidency. Foster, who is currently pursuing Spanish citizenship, said inquiries have skyrocketed since the election, with approximately 50 people reaching out to her about moving abroad.
Unlike those seeking golden visas, these individuals are not looking to renounce their US citizenship. “They want to leave because they feel they have no other choice, but they still want their vote to count,” Foster explained.
The wave of interest in moving abroad highlights the growing political and social divides in the US and the increasing appeal of alternative citizenship options for Americans seeking safety and stability in uncertain times.
Related topics:
- Tony Gonzales and Chip Roy Battle Over Mass Deportation Plans
- Industries Most Vulnerable to Trump’s Immigration Crackdown
- Los Angeles Approves ‘Sanctuary City’ Law to Safeguard Migrants
