The Migration Watch report examines the global investment migration landscape in 2026, focusing on how high-net-worth individuals are reassessing their citizenship and residency strategies amid heightened geopolitical tensions and regulatory changes.
The report highlights a fundamental shift in investor priorities, with safety and security taking precedence over traditional considerations like travel convenience or tax optimisation, as wealthy families increasingly view Citizenship by Investment (CBI) and Residency by Investment (RBI) programmes as essential tools for comprehensive wealth protection and multigenerational planning.
Comprehensive analysis of global investment migration trends, regulatory changes, and opportunities
In-depth analysis of regulatory changes affecting CBI and RBI programmes in 2026
Emerging trends in HNWI preferences and destination popularity across regions
Complete rankings of CBI and RBI programmes based on the World Citizenship Index
Download your free copy of Investment Migration Watch 2026 and navigate the evolving global citizenship landscape with confidence.
Download your free copy of Investment Migration Watch 2026 and navigate the evolving global citizenship landscape with confidence.
Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Mayfair, London, CS Global Partners is a distinguished consultancy specialising in bespoke citizenship and residency solutions. The firm partners with governments worldwide to design and implement successful Citizenship by Investment and Residency by Investment programmes that attract responsible foreign investment and drive sustainable economic development.
Thank you for exploring the Investment Migration Watch report with us.
Investment Migration Watch 2026 is CS Global Partners’ comprehensive annual report monitoring how Residency by Investment (RBI) and Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programmes are adapting to regulatory changes, market pressures, and shifting investor priorities. The report draws on data from the World Citizenship Report and provides insights into key factors like mobility, security, economic opportunity, and quality of life across investment migration destinations.
Citizenship by Investment (CBI) grants full citizenship and passport rights, often within months and without requiring prior residence in the country. Citizens enjoy complete rights, including voting, political participation, and the ability to pass citizenship to children, typically for life with no ongoing requirements.
Residency by Investment (RBI) provides the right to live and work in a country for a specified period, requiring ongoing physical presence to maintain status. After several years, RBI holders may apply for citizenship through naturalisation, which involves additional requirements like language tests. Most RBI programmes are offered by European Union countries as “Golden Visa” schemes.
The World Citizenship Index (WCI), published annually by CS Global Partners, evaluates citizenship across 188 countries using five key motivators that drive high-net-worth individual decision-making: Safety and Security (25%), Quality of Life (25%), Economic Opportunity (20%), Global Mobility (15%), and Financial Freedom (15%). The framework uses sophisticated quantitative and qualitative research to provide comprehensive evaluations beyond simple visa-free access rankings.
Regulatory changes implemented across Europe in 2025 signalled a decisive move away from purely transactional models. Countries offering RBI schemes must now demonstrate enhanced anti-money laundering frameworks, strengthened security checks, and closer alignment with international standards. This increased scrutiny has accelerated the adoption of stronger governance and more robust oversight throughout the sector, benefiting serious investors seeking reliable, reputable programmes.
Explore the World Citizenship Report (WCR), a comprehensive analysis that delves into the key factors that influence high-net-worth-individuals (HNWIs) towards Citizenship by Investment.
The report uniquely categorises countries based on five motivators, offering a holistic view beyond travel privileges. Discover the top citizenships globally, evaluated on a range of factors highly valued by the international community.
