Global Millionaire Migration: Top Destinations & Major Outflows

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By Oliver “The Data Decoder”

The global landscape of wealth distribution is undergoing a significant transformation, characterized by substantial international millionaire migration trends. A provisional report from investment consulting firm Henley & Partners projects that approximately 142,000 millionaires will relocate internationally in 2025. This underscores a dynamic re-allocation of global capital and talent, holding profound economic implications for both host and origin nations. Some countries are emerging as clear magnets for high-net-worth individuals, while others face considerable outflows of financial resources.

Attracting millionaire migrants offers compelling economic advantages for recipient nations. These high-net-worth individuals are observed to contribute significantly to foreign exchange reserves, frequently establish new businesses, stimulate local stock markets, and bolster the middle class. Their substantial spending power also indirectly generates employment, thereby creating a positive multiplier effect on overall wealth growth within the host economy.

Leading Destinations for Wealth

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to solidify its position as a premier destination for global wealth. It is projected to attract approximately 9,800 millionaires this year, bringing an estimated $63 billion in capital. This anticipated influx represents a remarkable 98% increase in its millionaire population over the last decade (2014-2024). The UAE’s appeal is deeply rooted in its welcoming immigration policies, a zero-income tax regime, robust infrastructure, and a stable political environment, which collectively create a highly attractive ecosystem for affluent individuals.

The United States ranks second globally, anticipated to welcome approximately 7,500 foreign millionaires and their estimated $43.7 billion in wealth. The U.S. has experienced a substantial 78% rise in its millionaire count over the past ten years. Key drivers for this trend include the long-established EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, which has channeled over $50 billion in foreign direct investment since 1990, alongside an unparalleled entrepreneurial ecosystem recognized for fostering transformative growth potential.

Other notable destinations attracting significant millionaire inflows include Italy, Switzerland, and Saudi Arabia. These countries benefit from a combination of favorable policies, economic stability, and lifestyle attractions that draw in wealthy individuals. The following table summarizes the projected net inflows:

Country Projected Net Inflow (2025) Estimated Wealth Inflow Millionaire Growth (2014-2024)
UAE 9,800 $63 billion +98%
United States 7,500 $43.7 billion +78%
Italy 3,600 $20.7 billion +20%
Switzerland 3,000 $16.8 billion +28%
Saudi Arabia 2,400 $18.4 billion +55%

Nations Experiencing Wealth Outflows

Conversely, several nations are experiencing a net outflow of millionaires, indicating shifting economic, political, or social landscapes that are prompting wealth relocation. The United Kingdom is projected to face the most significant exodus, with an estimated 16,500 millionaires departing, taking approximately $91.8 billion in wealth. This projected figure reflects a 9% decrease in the UK’s millionaire population over the past decade.

China is anticipated to lose 7,800 millionaires, representing $55.9 billion in wealth. This occurs despite a 74% increase in its overall millionaire count between 2014 and 2024, suggesting a disparity between wealth creation and retention. India is projected to see an outflow of 3,500 millionaires ($26.2 billion), while South Korea and Russia are also experiencing notable wealth migration. The following table details the projected net outflows:

Country Projected Net Outflow (2025) Estimated Wealth Outflow Millionaire Growth/Decline (2014-2024)
United Kingdom 16,500 $91.8 billion -9%
China 7,800 $55.9 billion +74%
India 3,500 $26.2 billion +72%
South Korea 2,400 $15.2 billion +17%
Russia 1,500 $14.7 billion -25%

The patterns of millionaire migration underscore a global competition for capital and talent. Nations that offer stable political environments, favorable tax regimes, robust infrastructure, and dynamic economic opportunities are increasingly positioning themselves as preferred destinations for the world’s wealthy, thereby influencing the trajectory of global economic development.

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