LONDON - Marylandian -- The sharp uptick in demand, recorded in Q1 2025, reflects ongoing momentum in the global investment migration industry – a trend that has accelerated since the UK's departure from the European Union. While initial interest in golden visa programmes stemmed largely from the desire for flexible European travel rights, today's enquiries are increasingly driven by long-term relocation strategies and wealth preservation in low-tax jurisdictions.

"We're seeing a clear shift in motivation," said Paul Williams, CEO of La Vida. "For many UK entrepreneurs and high earners, tax policy has reached a tipping point. The direction of travel is clear – taxes are increasing, and investors are responding by seeking greater control over their financial and personal futures through alternative residence options."

UK Tax Burden Exceeds European Norms

La Vida's internal analysis, drawing on data from the OECD, reveals that UK-based business owners now face a marginal combined tax rate of 54.5% – comprising 25% corporation tax and 39.35% dividend tax. This places the UK among the most heavily taxed jurisdictions in Europe, surpassed only by Ireland and Denmark. By comparison, the average combined tax burden across Europe for business owners stands at 41.0%, highlighting a 13.5% gap that continues to widen.

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Tax on business owners rose significantly when corporation tax climbed from 19% to 25% in April 2023. The increase in National Insurance rates in April 2025 will further tighten the fiscal environment for business and wealth generators.

"The British government seems unaware of the agility of today's businesses," Williams added. "The companies choosing to leave the UK are often digital, mobile, and scalable. These are exactly the kinds of enterprises the UK should be nurturing – not driving away."

Investment Migration: A Global Wealth Strategy

La Vida offers access to 18 major investment visa programmes, partnering with governments across Europe, the Americas, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Collectively, these programmes generate over $20 billion annually in foreign direct investment and provide individuals and families with secure residency or citizenship status in exchange for passive investments.

Among the most popular golden visa options for low taxation are:

• Portugal – where a €500,000 investment in regulated private equity funds grants full EU residency and Schengen access.
• United Arab Emirates (Dubai) – where investing AED 2,000,000 (~£420,000 / USD $540,000) secures long-term residency with zero personal income tax.
• Caribbean nations such as Grenada or Antigua, offering full citizenship from as little as $230,000, with no tax on overseas earnings.

In parallel, the rise of Digital Nomad Visas has enabled businesses to relocate UK-based employees to more favourable tax jurisdictions. Over 60 countries now offer digital nomad pathways, including Spain, Portugal, Barbados, and Antigua, allowing individuals to live and work remotely while legally avoiding many domestic tax obligations.

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High Earners and Employees Alike Affected

High-income employees in the UK are also under pressure, with a 47.0% marginal tax rate including social security – slightly above the European average of 45.0%. Additionally, employers face a rising cost of employment, with National Insurance contributions increasing from 13.8% to 15% in April 2025.

"Owner-run businesses in the UK are seen as low-hanging fruit for increasing tax demands," Williams noted. "But these are highly mobile, digitally focused, high growth businesses. Many feel they were the goose that kept laying the golden egg for too long. They've been pushed too far and are now turning to golden visas. Governments around the world are eager to welcome them."

A Win for Host Countries

While the UK and other high-tax nations may be losing some of their most dynamic business creators, host countries are benefiting enormously. Investment migration provides critical funding for housing, infrastructure, innovation, and economic diversification. Programmes are increasingly professionalised, regulated, and transparent – a testament to their strategic value and long-term sustainability.

And now the United States may be joining the race to attract wealthy entrepreneurs. Former President Donald Trump recently announced plans for a Trump Gold Card residency initiative, designed to attract high-net-worth individuals with a proposed $5 million investment threshold and zero tax on overseas income. A potential game-changer for many countries competing for global wealth.

About La Vida Golden Visas

La Vida is a leading advisory firm specialising in residency and citizenship by investment (RCBI). With clients in over 150 countries, La Vida has successfully assisted thousands of investors and their families in securing second residency or citizenship through its global network of government-approved programmes.

For more information, visit www.goldenvisas.com.