Calling All American Millionaires: New Zealand's Golden Invitation Awaits!
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Prosperous US Americans Seeking Refuge in New Zealand to Escape Trump Presidency - Wealthy Americans seeking to escape Trump's administration are increasingly choosing New Zealand as their destination.
Jumping the pond from the USA to New Zealand may seem far-fetched, with a jaunt from NYC to Auckland spanning over 17 hours. But for some savvy and wealthy Americans, this lengthy voyage is becoming an appealing adventure - one they're ready to embark on, without looking back.
They're aiming for long-term residency in the island nation. Luckily for them, New Zealand is casting a wide net for financially strong immigrants, recently loosening the reins on their visa rules. Known for its strict immigration policies, New Zealand has stepped up its game, making it easier for investors to park their cash Down Under.
New Zealand: The Land of Opportunity for Investors
A million bucks, give or take, is the price of admission. With a minumum investment of $3 million USD in New Zealand for at least three years, high rollers can now skip living there for three months every year and instead spend a mere 21 days annually. The condition of proving English proficiency has also been waived, despite the tongue-twisting Kiwi accent.
These changes were given the green light by the New Zealand parliament in February and went into effect in April. With the government of Prime Minister Chris Luxon pushing a growth strategy, foreign capital is welcome with open arms. "For too long, New Zealand has shut its doors to investors. We've been slow to see the benefits of foreign investment, despite there being billions of dollars in cash just waiting for a home," Luxon elucidated.
The Trump Factor: A Catalyst for Change?
Intriguingly, a significant number of these investors hail from the USA. According to immigration data, nearly half of the applications come from the States. It seems that the political climate in the country is driving these millionaires to up sticks and start afresh.
"Nearly every American applying for the Golden Visa is doing so because of the changes they've experienced under the Trump administration," says former minister Stuart Nash, who now provides guidance to investors looking to migrate to New Zealand with his consultancy firm.
The Golden Visa program has also been successful in attracting investors from other nations. Since the policy updates in April, there have been 189 applications, compared to just 115 over the past 2.5 years. The overwhelming majority come from the USA, with 16 applications from Germany.
Sources: Guardian, RNZ, New Zealand Immigration (1), New Zealand Immigration (2)
- New Zealand
- Golden Visa
- USA
- Chris Luxon
- Trump Administration
The Commission has also been consulted on the new draft directive regarding the Golden Visa program in New Zealand, as the country opens its doors to foreign investors, particularly from the USA. This shift in policy politics could be informed by the lifestyle changes some Americans are seeking, perhaps driven by their experiences under the Trump administration.
