Singapore and Italy lead global wealth migration in 2026 report
The Henley Private Wealth Migration Report 2026 reveals Singapore, Italy, and Switzerland as top wealth destinations, while the UK and Germany face pressures. A new framework assesses competitiveness, with the US and UAE showing paradoxical migration trends.
*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
Singapore, Italy, Switzerland, Greece, Hong Kong, and New Zealand have emerged as the most attractive destinations for internationally mobile wealth in 2026, according to the Henley Private Wealth Migration Report 2026. Conversely, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Norway, and South Korea face growing competitiveness pressures due to tax reforms, fiscal uncertainty, and policy shifts. The report highlights a shift toward 'sovereign portfolios,' where high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) diversify residence rights, citizenships, and investments across multiple jurisdictions.
The report introduces the Global Wealth Mobility Framework, a new analytical model evaluating countries based on taxation, investor migration pathways, quality of life, rule of law, and geopolitical stability. This framework generates a Wealth Mobility Competitiveness Score for each market. Singapore leads with a score of 79.5, followed by New Zealand at 75.8. Other strong performers include the Cayman Islands (74.3), Cyprus (73.5), and the Netherlands (72.8).
Key Wealth Mobility Scores
| Jurisdiction | Score |
|---|---|
| Singapore | 79.5 |
| New Zealand | 75.8 |
| Cayman Islands | 74.3 |
| Cyprus | 73.5 |
| Netherlands | 72.8 |
| Portugal | 72.5 |
| Italy | 72.3 |
| Bermuda | 72.0 |
Jurisdictions classified as 'Competitive Under Pressure' include Germany (69.7), Norway (69.0), the UK (68.3), South Korea (66.2), and France (65.7). The report also notes persistent structural challenges in Brazil (64.2), China (60.5), Russia (58.7), and India (56.5).
US and UAE Paradoxes
The US, with a score of 62.3, remains the largest wealth creator but also the top source market for outbound migration. Applications from US nationals doubled in 2025 compared to the previous year, with 93% originating from residents rather than expatriates. The UAE achieved a high score of 85.3 but saw a 41% increase in enquiries from UAE-based individuals and a 29% rise in applications for alternative residence or citizenship between Q4 2025 and Q1 2026.
Dr. Juerg Steffen, CEO at Henley & Partners, emphasized that governments can no longer treat wealthy residents as a fixed asset. Jurisdictions are now competing for entrepreneurs, investors, and skilled individuals who drive economic growth. The report underscores the trend of HNWIs structuring their lives across multiple jurisdictions to mitigate risks.
How will the UK and Germany adjust their tax and immigration policies to reverse the trend of outbound wealth migration?
What impact will the surge in US and UAE outbound applications have on the real estate markets and investment sectors of top destination countries?
Will the 'sovereign portfolio' trend force nations to introduce more flexible dual-residence or digital nomad regulations to retain talent?
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