The "Hidden" Immigrant "Problem"

Over 264,000 high net worth individuals (HNWIs) globally, have obtained a second nationality since 2000.

According to New World Wealth's annual review of the migration patterns of worldwide millionaires, the United Kingdom is the most popular top migration destination for millionaires seeking a second passport. 

Between 2000 and 2014, the UK granted citizenship to more than 125,000 foreign millionaires, more than twice the number granted citizenship by the US, which was second on the list.

The UK is a popular choice because of the ease with which UK passport holders can travel within the European Union. The UK is also attractive because of the many higher level academic institutions, and the ease of buying property and transferring capital.

The UK is especially popular with Russian HNWIs. In the first half of 2014, Russian HNWIs purchased approximately 20% of London homes valued up to $15 million. Russian millionaires are re-locating due to the country’s worsening economic and political troubles.

China has had a net outflow of 91,000 millionaires over the past 14 years, making it the world’s top source of migrant millionaires, ahead of India and France. Four of the five BRICS countries – China, India, Russia, and South Africa – are among the top eight countries with the most outflows of millionaires.