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Surge in American Interest for European Residency Amid Political Uncertainty

KVIA•Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 9:19 AM•Stacker

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AI Summary

A significant increase in inquiries from wealthy Americans seeking residency in Europe has been noted, with a 183% rise reported between Q1 2024 and Q1 2025. The trend, termed the 'Plan B passport,' reflects a growing urgency as traditional pathways to residency close, notably with Spain's Golden Visa program ending in April 2025. Portugal has become a primary destination, attracting over 30% of investment migration applications from U.S. nationals, a dramatic increase from 5% five years ago. The shift includes a diverse demographic of applicants, including tech founders and families, driven by desires for security and better healthcare. As changes to Portuguese nationality laws loom, interested parties are urged to act quickly to secure their residency.

Key Details: • Inquiries for European residency from Americans rose 183% in one year. • Portugal's Golden Visa program now requires a minimum investment of €500,000. • Applications from U.S. nationals accounted for over 30% of all investment migration applications in 2025. • The residency requirement for citizenship in Portugal may extend from five to ten years by late 2025. • Spain's Golden Visa program closed to new applications in April 2025.

immigration investment citizenship portugal residency

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