Why This Under-the-Radar Country Is Becoming America’s New Escape

Stuart Nash, Founder

An estimated 128,000 HNWIs are expected to seek alternative residency or citizenship in the next year. With countries rolling out new “Golden Visa” programs to attract them, demand for safe haven destinations is skyrocketing – especially among US residents.

One example: New Zealand reports that 70% of inquiries for the country's recently revamped Active Investor Plus Visa are coming from the U.S. And Nash Kelly Global, a concierge relocation firm led by former New Zealand government minister Stuart Nash, is seeing a notable uptick in interest from high-net-worth Americans looking to make the move. A few eye-catching trends:

• Traffic from the U.S. to Immigration NZ’s site spiked from 691 to over 18,600 in just two days after the last presidential election

• Visits to New Zealand’s visa information pages are up 400%

• The new visa eliminates the language test, eases residency requirements, and broadens acceptable investments—making it far more accessible than Europe’s traditional “Golden Visa” programs

Nash Kelly Global specializes in guiding these individuals and their families through the complex process of securing New Zealand’s coveted Golden Visa. The company provides expert consultancy services covering everything from visa applications, tax and financial advisory, and real estate support, to offering exclusive access to a network of business, philanthropic, and investment opportunities. These services ensure that clients not only gain residency, but also truly integrate into New Zealand’s thriving communities and feel at home.

New Zealand’s appeal goes beyond paperwork. It offers a high-trust society (ranked #3 globally for transparency), strong education, low crime, and a way of life that includes everything from legendary Pinot Noirs to 400+ golf courses and world-class hiking trails.

Nash Kelly Global's deep networks across New Zealand's political, financial, and social landscapes help make what could be a daunting relocation process more manageable for HNW families. In fact, reports show that 86% of individuals who relocated to New Zealand wish they had a support network to help with the transition—something Nash Kelly Global provides in spades.