Are you an American wondering how to gain a second passport for US citizens? In recent years, an increasing number of Americans have been seeking a “Plan B” through second passports and alternative citizenships. What once seemed like a niche pursuit for the ultra-wealthy has evolved into a broader trend embraced by people from varying backgrounds—high-net-worth individuals, middle-class professionals, and retirees alike.
We explore the driving factors behind this surge, the most popular destinations, and how this phenomenon reflects a changing mindset among US citizens.
The Political and Social Landscape
One of the biggest catalysts for this shift is the growing sense of political uncertainty and polarization in the United States. In a 2024 survey conducted by a global residency advisory firm, over 45% of American respondents cited “political instability and polarization” as a primary reason for exploring second citizenship options. While the US has long been viewed as a beacon of democracy and opportunity, recent elections, social unrest, and divisive political rhetoric have led many to consider backup plans.
Polarization and Civil Unrest
- Immediate reaction to elections: Searches for “How to get a second passport” spiked by 65% during the 2024 election week, compared to the same period in 2023.
- Heightened activism: People from both sides of the political spectrum worry about potential infringements on civil liberties—be it restrictions on voting, reproductive rights, or freedom of expression.
- Social tensions: Concerns about civil unrest and rising hate crimes have made some Americans want the security of knowing they could relocate quickly if needed.
Economic and Tax Considerations
Many Americans, particularly those with significant assets or businesses, are also motivated by economic reasons. The United States is one of the few countries that taxes its citizens on their worldwide income, regardless of where they live. For high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and even remote-working professionals, the complexities and costs of this tax system can be burdensome.
Asset Protection and Global Business Opportunities
- Hedging against volatility: A 2025 wealth report by Henley & Partners noted that 40% of high-net-worth American clients now list “asset protection” as a key incentive for securing a second passport.
- Business travel advantages: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted how possessing multiple citizenships can facilitate smoother international travel. When borders closed, some Americans with an EU or Caribbean passport faced fewer entry restrictions and travel bans.
- Tax benefits: Certain Citizenship-by-Investment (CBI) programs—especially in the Caribbean—offer low or zero personal income tax. This can be attractive to Americans looking to optimize their tax strategies without outright renouncing their US citizenship.
Who’s Driving the Trend?
While wealthy entrepreneurs and investors still lead the pack, second citizenship is no longer exclusive to millionaires. Citizenship advisory firms have noticed a diverse clientele inquiring about these opportunities:
- High-net-worth individuals: They often view second passports as part of a broader portfolio diversification strategy, alongside assets like real estate and stocks.
- Retirees: Rising healthcare costs and a higher cost of living in the US are encouraging retirees to look abroad for more affordable, stable settings to spend their golden years.
- Middle-class professionals: Increasingly, digital nomads and remote workers see a second residency or passport as a path to global mobility. A 2024 survey by Boundless Immigration found that 1 in 5 American professionals under the age of 40 are interested in obtaining a second passport within the next decade.
Top Destination Countries
Different countries cater to different motivations—some programs are popular for the ease of travel they provide, others for lifestyle or tax breaks. Below are some top choices:
Portugal: The “Golden Visa” Hotspot
Portugal has emerged as a favorite for Americans seeking EU residency, thanks to relatively low investment thresholds and a pathway to European Union citizenship after five years. According to the country’s official immigration data, the number of US applicants for Portugal’s Golden Visa more than tripled between 2021 and 2024, overtaking previously dominant nationalities such as China.
Malta: Direct EU Citizenship for Those Who Qualify
Malta offers one of the more premium routes to European citizenship. While the investment requirements are higher than Portugal’s, successful applicants gain direct access to a powerful EU passport in around a year. In 2024 alone, 25% of a leading advisory firm’s American clients chose Malta as their destination of choice, citing the allure of immediate EU citizenship.
Caribbean Nations: Fast and Cost-Effective
The Caribbean has long been a hub for citizenship-by-investment. Nations like St. Kitts & Nevis, Dominica, Antigua & Barbuda, and St. Lucia offer:
- Quick processing times—as fast as 3–6 months
- Comparatively lower investment thresholds (starting around $100,000–$150,000)
- Attractive tax regimes, often featuring little to no personal income tax
St. Kitts & Nevis, for example, has seen a 30% increase in American applicants for its CBI program since 2023.
The Human Factor: Balancing Security and Opportunity
This surge isn’t just about escaping perceived threats—it’s also about unlocking new possibilities. A second passport can mean freedom to move, to invest abroad, to retire in a warmer climate, or to provide children with European education options. For many Americans, it’s as much about future-proofing as it is about dissatisfaction with current conditions. They don’t necessarily plan to leave the United States permanently; rather, they want the peace of mind that comes with having alternatives.
Ready for Your Plan B? Contact Next Generation Equity
If you’re considering second citizenship or want to explore the world of residency-by-investment, Next Generation Equity (NGE) is here to guide you every step of the way. With expert insights across multiple jurisdictions, NGE can help you navigate legal requirements, find the right investment route, and secure a brighter, more flexible future.
Explore your options today at nextgenerationequity.com.
