THIS WEEK ABROAD
While many countries are tightening rules for expats, New Zealand is rolling out a “luxury housing loophole” for multimillion-dollar investors. Plus, U.S. military veterans are finding affordable overseas retirement options from the Philippines to Panama.
We have everything you need to know in this week’s newsletter.👇
Must-Know News
🌍NEW ZEALAND CHANGES THE INVESTOR VISA GAME
While many countries in the West are slamming shut doors for expats, New Zealand has quietly relaxed some restrictions.
Last month, the government updated its Active Investor Plus (AIP) Visa program to allow visa holders to buy or build one residential property worth at least $5 million NZD, or about $2.9 million USD.
Previously, all foreign investors were barred from owning residential real estate, even if they were bringing millions into the economy. The new rule, dubbed the “luxury housing loophole,” is designed to attract ultra-wealthy investors while keeping the general housing market closed to most outsiders.
How the Active Investor Plus Visa Works
To qualify for the AIP visa, applicants must invest at least NZ$5 million in approved New Zealand assets such as local businesses, managed funds, or philanthropic projects. They must also spend a minimum of 117 days in the country over a four-year period. Successful applicants gain a pathway to permanent residency, and eventually, full citizenship.
Why It Matters for U.S. Expats
As a remote island nation, New Zealand is located far from potential conflict sites and nuclear fallout zones. The country also offers political stability, strong property rights, and an English-speaking environment, making it a popular choice for wealthy Americans seeking a “Plan B” destination.
While New Zealand does not have a general capital gains tax, it does have other wealth-style levies and strict rules for reporting foreign income. The government has made it clear that the AIP update is meant to attract committed investors, not speculative buyers.
Video of the Week
🪖WHERE MILITARY VETERANS ARE RETIRING IN 2025
After years of service, many veterans find that living stateside just doesn’t add up. Even with military pensions and VA benefits, the cost of living in the U.S. is going nowhere but up. Today, many are choosing to leave the country altogether.
Veterans are used to adapting, moving, and building community wherever they land, so it’s no surprise that expat life comes naturally. Across the globe, entire veteran networks have formed in countries that welcome U.S. retirees with open arms — lower price tags.
Where Veterans Are Choosing to Live
According to the VA’s Foreign Medical Program, over 71,000 American veterans currently live overseas.
The Philippines tops the list as the most popular destination, thanks to its low cost of living, English-friendly culture, and strong veteran presence. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment can be as low as $200 a month outside major cities.
Mexico comes in close second. It’s affordable, close to home, and hosts thriving expat communities in locales such as Lake Chapala, San Miguel de Allende, and Puerto Vallarta.
Further south, Panama offers the famous Pensionado Visa, one of the easiest retiree programs in the world. The U.S. military had a major presence in Panama until the late-1990s, and it remains a popular retirement destination for servicemembers and civilians alike
Thailand is another favorite for veterans looking to live well on a modest budget. The weather, food, and culture need little introduction, and a thriving veteran community has taken root in cities like Chiang Mai and Pattaya.
And for those drawn to Europe, Portugal, Spain, and Germany collectively stand out. They’re pricier, but many veterans return to the regions where they once served, reconnecting with familiar communities and bases.
➡️FYI: Even when retiring abroad, U.S. veterans still face federal tax rules. That’s why many choose to establish a Florida address - a state with no income tax - to simplify finances and maintain a U.S. base.
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