Millionaires on the Move: Tracking Wealth Migration Trends for 2025
In 2025, a significant shift in global wealth distribution is underway as an estimated 142,000 millionaires plan to relocate internationally, with numbers expected to rise to 165,000 by 2026. These high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), defined by assets exceeding $1 million in liquid form, are reshaping the landscape of economic hubs worldwide.
UAE Emerges as the Ultimate Wealth Magnet
The United Arab Emirates continues to dominate as the leading destination for wealthy migrants, projected to attract a record net influx of 9,800 millionaires this year—surpassing last year’s figure of 6,700. Key factors contributing to the UAE’s allure include its zero income tax policy, ultra-modern infrastructure, political stability, and the advantageous Golden Visa program, offering long-term residence for up to 10 years.
Other Top Destinations for Affluent Migrants
- United States: Expected to draw about 7,500 millionaires, largely fueled by the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program that has funneled over $50 billion into the economy and generated hundreds of thousands of jobs.
- Italy: Continues to be a preferred choice, ranking third for millionaire inflow.
- Switzerland: Maintains its reputation as a stable wealth haven, securing fourth place.
- Saudi Arabia: Notably on the rise, gearing up to receive over 2,400 millionaires in 2025—an eightfold increase from the previous year.
Countries Facing Wealth Outflows
While some nations are gaining affluent individuals, others are experiencing notable declines:
- United Kingdom: Top of the list for net millionaire losses with an estimated 16,500 HNWIs projected to move elsewhere in 2025.
- China: Witnesses a net outflow of approximately 7,800 millionaires.
- South Korea and India: Expect to lose around 2,400 and 3,500 millionaires respectively.
- European nations: France (-800), Spain (-500), Germany (-400), along with Ireland, Norway, and Sweden, are also seeing declines in their wealthy populations.
Understanding the Impact of Wealth Migration
This movement isn’t just about personal preference—it represents a seismic shift in global economic influence. As countries compete to attract affluence alongside talent, the stakes have never been higher.
The UAE, with an estimated collective investable wealth influx of around $63 billion, has transformed from a regional player into a global wealth powerhouse, thanks largely to innovative policies and strategic positioning.
Interestingly, the UK’s current outflow contrasts with past trends before 2016, when it actually attracted more millionaires than it lost.
The Realities Behind 'Migration'
Experts caution that the term 'migration' may be misleading. For many millionaires, obtaining residency or citizenship abroad often serves as a contingency plan rather than an immediate relocation. Paperwork may be acquired in multiple countries without a physical move taking place.
How Millionaires Secure Residency
Only about 30% of high-net-worth individuals use formal investment migration programs. The majority find residency through alternative routes such as:
- Work visas
- Ancestry and family visas
- Retirement visas
- Birthright citizenship and second passports
What Makes the UAE and USA Stand Out?
The UAE’s welcoming immigration policies paired with appealing lifestyle factors and the absence of personal income tax make it a magnet for the wealthy. The Golden Visa program, introduced in 2019 and expanded in 2022, offers convenient long-term residence, attracting an increasing number of high-net-worth individuals.
Meanwhile, the United States continues to draw millionaires through structured investment schemes like the EB-5 program, which not only benefits investors but also boosts the domestic economy through job creation and capital inflow.
As global wealth patterns continue to shift, these trends offer valuable insight into the evolving priorities and strategies of the world’s richest individuals, reflecting broader changes in economic, political, and lifestyle landscapes.
