India’s rapid economic growth has led to a sharp rise in the number of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), but it has also sparked a growing trend of wealthy Indians seeking new homes abroad. According to the Henley Private Wealth Migration Report, India is expected to lose about 3,500 millionaires in 2025 alone, with their combined net worth reaching around $26 billion. This ranked list explores the top destinations for Indian HNWIs, explaining why these countries are so attractive, what their immigration programs require, and how each option compares. The ranking is based on the number of Indian millionaires migrating, the appeal of each country’s visa and tax policies, and the overall benefits for wealthy newcomers.
Ranking Criteria and Methodology
This list ranks the most popular countries for Indian HNWIs based on:
– Number of Indian millionaires migrating, as reported by the Henley Private Wealth Migration Report
– Attractiveness of visa and residency programs for investors
– Tax benefits and lifestyle advantages
– Ease of process, costs, and flexibility for new residents
Each country is covered in detail, including requirements, benefits, and practical steps for Indian HNWIs considering migration.
1. United Arab Emirates (Dubai)
Dubai stands out as the top destination for India’s high-net-worth individuals. The UAE is expected to attract nearly 9,800 millionaires in 2025, more than any other country. Several factors make Dubai especially appealing:
- Zero Tax Regime: The UAE does not levy income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax. This allows wealthy individuals to preserve and grow their assets without heavy tax burdens.
- Golden Visa Program: The UAE offers long-term residency (5 or 10 years) for investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals. To qualify, investors typically need to invest at least AED 2 million (about ₹4.5 crore) in property or business. The process is straightforward, with clear documentation and fast processing times. More details can be found on the UAE Government Portal.
- Proximity and Safety: Dubai is close to India, making travel easy for business and family visits. The city is known for its safety, luxury, and high standard of living.
- Lifestyle: Dubai offers world-class healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Its cosmopolitan environment attracts families seeking a better quality of life.
Costs: The main cost is the investment amount (AED 2 million or more), plus government processing fees.
Benefits: Fast-track residency, tax-free environment, and a safe, modern lifestyle.
2. United States 🇺🇸
The United States remains a favorite for Indian HNWIs, especially those looking for business opportunities and long-term security. The US is projected to attract about 7,500 millionaires in 2025.
- EB-5 Investor Visa: This program grants permanent residency (Green Card) to those who invest $800,000 in a government-approved project and create at least 10 full-time jobs for US workers. The process involves filing Form I-526 and showing proof of investment and job creation.
- Golden Visa Program: Introduced during President Trump’s administration, this program requires a $5 million investment and offers an alternative path to residency. Nearly 70,000 online applications have been submitted so far.
- Business Environment: The US offers a stable economy, strong legal protections, and a wide range of business and investment opportunities.
- Education and Healthcare: Access to top universities and hospitals is a major draw for families.
Costs: $800,000 for EB-5 or $5 million for the Golden Visa, plus legal and processing fees.
Benefits: Path to permanent residency, access to the world’s largest economy, and strong legal rights.
3. Portugal
Portugal’s Golden Visa program has become increasingly popular with Indian investors, thanks to its flexibility and low residency requirements.
- Golden Visa Program: To qualify, investors must put at least €500,000 (about ₹5 crore) into real estate or other approved investments. Applicants only need to spend seven days per year in Portugal to maintain residency, making it ideal for global entrepreneurs.
- Path to Citizenship: After five years, residents can apply for permanent residency or citizenship, provided they meet language and other requirements.
- Lifestyle: Portugal offers a relaxed lifestyle, good healthcare, and access to the European Union’s Schengen Area, allowing free travel across much of Europe.
Costs: Minimum €500,000 investment, plus government and legal fees.
Benefits: Flexible residency, access to the EU, and a clear path to citizenship.
4. New Zealand
New Zealand is gaining attention among Indian HNWIs for its investor-friendly visa policies and high quality of life.
- Growth Investor Visa: Requires an investment of NZD 5 million (about ₹25 crore) in approved assets such as shares, bonds, or real estate.
- Balanced Category Visa: For those willing to invest NZD 10 million, this visa offers even more flexibility.
- Application Process: Applicants must show proof of funds, a clean background, and a commitment to invest for at least three years.
- Lifestyle: New Zealand is known for its natural beauty, safety, and excellent education and healthcare systems.
Costs: NZD 5-10 million investment, plus application fees.
Benefits: Safe environment, high living standards, and a welcoming society.
5. Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is emerging as a new magnet for wealthy individuals, with 2,400 new millionaires expected to move there in 2025.
- Investor Residency Program: Saudi Arabia offers residency to investors and skilled professionals. The program is designed to attract foreign capital and expertise.
- Business Opportunities: The country is investing heavily in new industries and infrastructure, creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors.
- Lifestyle: While more conservative than Dubai, Saudi Arabia is modernizing rapidly, with new entertainment, tourism, and business zones.
Costs: Investment requirements vary by program, but are generally competitive with other Gulf countries.
Benefits: Growing economy, new business opportunities, and a strategic location in the Middle East.
How to Choose the Best Option
Indian high-net-worth individuals should consider several factors when deciding where to migrate:
- Tax Implications: Compare the tax regimes of each country, including income, capital gains, and inheritance taxes.
- Investment Requirements: Assess how much you need to invest and whether the investment aligns with your financial goals.
- Residency and Citizenship Pathways: Some countries offer faster or more flexible routes to permanent residency or citizenship.
- Lifestyle and Family Needs: Consider education, healthcare, safety, and cultural fit for your family.
- Legal and Compliance Issues: Understand the legal requirements, including exit taxes from India and ongoing compliance in the new country.
It’s wise to consult with immigration and financial advisors to ensure you meet all requirements and make the best choice for your situation.
Conclusion
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the migration of India’s high-net-worth individuals is driven by a mix of tax advantages, lifestyle improvements, and regulatory factors. Dubai leads as the top choice, followed by the United States, Portugal, New Zealand, and Saudi Arabia. Each country offers unique benefits and challenges, so it’s important for Indian millionaires to carefully evaluate their options. For official information on investor visas and residency programs, readers can visit the UAE Government Portal or the official sites of each destination country. By weighing the requirements, costs, and long-term benefits, India’s wealthy can make informed decisions about their future abroad.
Learn Today
High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs) → People with significant investable assets, usually exceeding one million US dollars.
Golden Visa Program → A residency visa granted to investors committing substantial capital in a country’s economy.
Henley Private Wealth Migration Report → An annual study tracking global migration patterns of wealthy individuals.
EB-5 Investor Visa → US visa granting permanent residency for investing $800,000 in job-creating projects.
Residency → Legal permission to live in a country, often linked to visa or citizenship pathways.
This Article in a Nutshell
India’s wealthy are migrating globally due to tax benefits, lifestyle, and visa options. Dubai leads with zero tax and long-term residency programs, while the US and Portugal offer investor visas. This migration reflects strategic choices for wealth preservation and family security amid growing global opportunities.
— By VisaVerge.com
