Latest news with #NomadCapitalist
The Star
15 hours ago
- Health
- The Star
M'sia leads medical tourism charge
PETALING JAYA: From the Maldives to mainland China, foreigners are drawn to the world-class healthcare offered by private hospitals in the country, says Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia president Datuk Dr Kuljit Singh (pic). Apart from being cost-effective, these foreign patients were keen on the transparent healthcare plans offered by Malaysian private hospitals, he said. Another plus factor for them was the ease of communication as English is widely spoken, he said in an interview. Last Wednesday, the Health Ministry announced that Malaysia has been ranked as the top destination for medical tourism based on quality, infrastructure, cost-effectiveness and ease of access by Nomad Capitalist, a Dubai-based wealth consultancy firm. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said in a Facebook post that Malaysia's medical tourism sector generated about RM2bil in revenue in 2023, with 1.3 million foreigners seeking treatment in the country. Dr Kuljit told The Star that foreign nationalities who sought treatment are mainly from Indonesia, China, Bangladesh and the Maldives. The rest are from Europe and the United States. 'We are way more affordable compared to our neighbouring countries and far cheaper than western countries,' he said, estimating that foreign patients seeking treatment in Malaysia would be paying 20% to 50% lower than elsewhere. 'For those from the US, the savings could be up to 70% compared to what they would need to fork out in their own country.' He said foreign patients seek a variety of treatments ranging from simple health screening to sophisticated interventions. Dr Kuljit said that being a predominantly Muslim country was also advantageous as it was a plus point for Muslim patients. 'Another factor that has earned the trust and confidence of international patients are Malaysia's strict healthcare standards and accreditation with global medical bodies. 'They are treated with care and only discharged when they are fit to leave the facility,' he added. However, while medical care is seamlessly rendered, Dr Kuljit acknowledged that the biggest challenge private hospitals face is inadequate capacity for inpatients. 'A shortage of manpower such as nurses is an issue,' he said. Furthermore, he said restrictions and conditions imposed on private hospitals that curtail healthcare costs can prove to be a hindrance to the growth of medical tourism. But in the long term, he said Malaysia's future as a medical tourism hub remains bright as the projected number of patients exceeds targets annually. 'I am confident that Malaysia's reputation as one of the leading medical tourism destinations in the world will only continue to grow in leaps and bounds as private hospitals in Malaysia remain committed to delivering reliable, world-class care to Malaysians first and foremost and to the rest of the world,' he added. Dr Kuljit said Malaysians no longer need to travel abroad in search of premium healthcare. 'However, these advantages are sometimes overlooked by Malaysians and lead to a misunderstanding of the role of private hospitals. There is a mistaken notion that the services offered are medical tourism-oriented and solely driven by profit,' he said. He explained that private hospitals strive to improve continuously to meet world-class standards that benefit both the local population and medical tourists. Asked if private hospitals would extend their services to low-income Malaysians as part of their corporate social responsibility since they have earned revenue from medical tourism, he said such initiatives will be further enhanced if private hospitals managed to increase capacity. 'We are happy to work with the public healthcare system and conduct such programmes but we need to have greater capacity and manpower,' he said.
Forbes
3 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
Argentina To Launch New Citizenship Program: Here's What You Need To Know
Overlooking the Buenos Aires skyline at sunset. Argentina is preparing to launch a new citizenship-by-investment program, drawing interest from expats and global investors. getty More and more Americans are dreaming of moving abroad. Whether it's to escape the current political situation, for better work-life balance or just the thrill of a new adventure, there's a booming demand for second passports and long-term visas. While some countries offer citizenship after years of residency, a handful will give you a passport in exchange for investment. Now, Argentina—one of the most affordable countries to live—is getting in on the action. The South American country is rolling out a new citizenship-by-investment (CBI) program that will help make it easier for foreigners to get citizenship there. According to Isabela Schrotke, research team lead at Nomad Capitalist, the program will require a minimum investment of $500,000 in sectors like technology, agribusiness, energy or tourism. It is expected to launch by the end of 2025 or early 2026. 'The focus is on job-generating contributions—not real estate or donations,' Schrotke told me in an interview. 'Two executive decrees are being drafted to create a solid legal and administrative structure that avoids future court challenges.' Unlike Argentina's traditional path to naturalization—which requires two years of permanent residency—the new citizenship-by-investment route would offer investors a direct line to citizenship. And there's real value to being an Argentinian citizen: 'The lifestyle is culturally rich, affordable and has a strong European feel, especially in cities like Buenos Aires,' says Schrotke. A street scene in Palermo Hollywood, one of Buenos Aires' trendiest neighborhoods—known for its café culture and buzzing nightlife. getty Thanks to its café culture, walkability, thriving arts scene and European-style architecture, Buenos Aires often tops lists of the best cities in Latin America for expats. Outside the capital, regions like Mendoza and Bariloche also offer expat appeal. Another perk: 'Argentine citizenship gives you visa-free access to 172 destinations and the right to live and work in all Mercosur countries,' says Schrotke. The Mercosur countries include Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Bolivia. Plus, there are several other associated countries including Chile, Colombia and more. The launch of the program coincides with a broader economic transformation under President Javier Milei, who was elected in December 2023. In just over a year, Milei has lifted currency and capital controls, cut inflation and posted a budget surplus. "Argentina's past is turbulent, but current reforms are aimed at stability,' says Schrotke. 'Inflation is down, investor sentiment is improving and the program is part of a broader economic repositioning.' International Living correspondent David Hammond is enthusiastic about the new opportunity. 'So many times I've heard people say, if Argentina ever got its political and economic act together, it could rank among the best places in the world to live and invest,' Hammond wrote in a recent article. 'With reforms in place, financial barriers removed and international backing secured, this could be the most accessible and potentially profitable time to explore Argentina in decades.' Not everyone agrees. Jen Barnett, founder of Expatsi—which helps Americans find places to live abroad—is skeptical. 'I don't think Argentina is a safe choice in its current political climate that includes a recent incident where lesbians were set on fire, not to mention out-of-control inflation,' Barnett told me in an interview. 'We recommend Uruguay instead, which is a stable democracy that eliminated laws against homosexuality in 1934.' Taking in the natural beauty of Patagonia, one of Argentina's most awe-inspiring regions. With the soon-to-launch citizenship-by-investment program, the country is drawing new interest from nature lovers and investors alike. getty And Ted Baumann, chief of global diversification at International Living, calls Argentina's new approach a sharp pivot. 'Whereas before Argentina was relatively open to immigrants up and down the economic spectrum, now it appears to be narrowing those opportunities in favor of those with wealth and skills,' Baumann told me in an interview. Baumann says that Argentina will need to work hard to attract high-net-worth individuals, given its remote location and political unpredictability. 'There are numerous opportunities for people with half a million dollars to invest, and Argentina will have to compete hard to find its place in the CBI world,' he says. 'The country has great natural beauty and a European cultural flare. But it has two drawbacks from an international migration perspective. First, it's a long way from the centers of action. In terms of time zones, it's accessible to the U.S. East Coast, but anybody who needs to travel for business is going to have to get used to long haul flights if they settle there.' The political issue is much more consequential. 'Argentina has a history of significant sociopolitical and economic instability,'says Baumann. 'If the world goes into a global recession, Argentina could be hit hard.' And there are other issues to consider: 'Dual citizenship is allowed in Argentina without major restrictions. However, once naturalized, you are legally considered fully Argentine within the country, and the citizenship is permanent and cannot be renounced,' says Schrotke. 'This could carry legal or tax implications depending on your other nationality.' Whether this new program becomes a true game changer remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: For anyone dreaming of a new life abroad, Argentina is a country to watch. Golden hour in Mendoza's wine country—just one of the many regions that make Argentina a compelling destination for expats and investors. getty When will the program launch? Late 2025 is the earliest expected timeline, with early 2026 also a possibility depending on implementation. How much do I need to invest? A minimum of $500,000 in approved sectors such as technology, agribusiness, energy or tourism. Can I invest in real estate? No. The government has specifically excluded real estate and donations from qualifying investments. Do I need to live in Argentina? No residency is required under this program. That's one of the major differences from Argentina's traditional two-year path to citizenship. Does Argentina allow dual citizenship? Yes, but once you are naturalized, you are considered fully Argentine in the eyes of the law, and citizenship cannot be renounced. What are the risks? The country has longstanding oolitical and economic volatility, plus potential shifts in policy. And there are legal and tax implications tied to permanent citizenship status. Who is this program best for? Entrepreneurs and active investors looking to engage with Argentina's economy. It is not intended for remote workers or passive citizens.
Daily Mirror
18-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
Beautiful Spanish seaside town named best place for expats to live
A city in the Costa del Sol has been named the top destination for expats considering a move to Spain, highlighting its easy-going lifestyle and excellent weather A new ranking has named this seaside town the best place for expats to settle down in Spain. Beating out cities like Barcelona and Madrid, this destination topped Nomad Capitalist's ranking thanks to its convenient access to the sea and the 'relaxed lifestyle' of residents. Malaga sits in the heart of Spain's popular Costa del Sol, which has been a hub for holidaying Brits for years. The beaches are the biggest draw of the region, with miles and miles of sandy shores - many of which are dog-friendly - and pristine waters. The city centre of Malaga is "lively and a cultural hub" according to Nomad Capitalist, but the if you're looking for something a bit quieter, the villages east of the capital might be a better fit. Villages in the province of Malaga like Frigiliana are tranquil and filled with whitewashed houses in the classic Andalusian style. The weather and superior transport in Malaga compared to other Spanish destinations are other factors that contributed to its top ranking. Though Malaga did experience a freak hail storm this past March, the result of Storm Martinho. While the merits of Malaga are certainly bountiful, it's important to note that housing shortages and the impacts of over-tourism have caused tensions to grow between locals, foreigners and city councillors. In April 2025, mass demonstrations overtook 42 cities across Spain including Malaga to draw attention to soaring rental prices and housing shortages. The clear and defiant message seems to have resonated with the Malaga City Council, which reportedly cancelled plans to build 1,300 tourist homes in the city. The new city strategy will veer away from property sales to non-Spaniards, considering a ' total ban ' altogether. Malaga City Council has already worked to introduce new measures to curb the construction and acquisition of tourist housing after growing animosity from locals in recent years. But after recent protests and the projected plans for a summer of tourist disruption, Mayor De La Torre said 'a global moratorium' is under consideration. Despite the growing tensions, Malaga remains one of Spain's top tourist destinations, attracting around 14 million visitors last year. And while it tops Nomad Capital's list of the best expat destinations in Spain, they emphasise that there is no one single Spanish city ideal for all expats. While Malaga may be best for sunbathers, Barcelona is ideal for foodies and Granada has proved to be an excellent based for winter sports enthusiasts. You can find the full ranking of the Top 11 Spanish expat destinations below. The top 11 Spanish destinations for expats Malaga Sotogrande Madrid Barcelona Seville Valencia San Sebastian Granada Bilbao Ibiza Zaragoza
Forbes
09-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
New Nomad Index Sheds New Light On World's Most Powerful Passports
Ranking almost anything is always subjective, but when it's something on the scope and scale of the world's most powerful passports, it's hard to invest fully in only one source. Such is the case here, where consulting firm Nomad Capitalist creates its annual Nomad Passport Index (NPI) of the world's 199 citizenships based on five different factors looking through the eyes of global investors and entrepreneurs. Is the world your oyster? It depends on your passport… The 2025 NPI ranking is its ninth. The five factors it employs that define its methodology use aggregated data from nearly 20 sources and are weighted slightly differently: Using government data from 199 passport-issuing countries and territories, combined with real-time intelligence and proprietary research. This factor includes a MobilityScore measuring ease of travel, which focuses on visa-free travel, visa on arrival, and eTA and eVisa (if issued within three days). Based on data from Nomad Capitalist's network of tax vendors, news sources and tax authorities. They assigned the lowest score of 10 to countries that tax citizens no matter where they live (e.g. U.S.); scored 20 or 30 to countries that allow citizens to relocate to avoid tax (e.g. Finland); scored 40 for those that don't tax foreign incomes of resident citizens (e.g. Panama); and scored 50 for countries with zero tax (e.g. Vanuatu). Based on the World Happiness Report, the Human Development Index and subjective factors from the Nomad Capitalist network's experiences to determine how each country's citizens are received and recognized. Using embassy data and their network experiences to assess the ability to hold dual citizenship ranging from a score of 10 for strictly forbidden (e.g. China) to a score of 50 for freely allowed (e.g. Canada). Based on data and news reports about mandatory military service, government surveillance, press freedom and other factors to determine the personal freedom of citizens, travellers and expats, with scores ranging from 10 for least freedom to 50 for most. While some of these factors are undoubtedly interpretive and based on experience as much as data, this approach, claims the report, takes it beyond rankings that focus solely on visa-free travel: 'While most indices – and most people – think of a passport only in terms of travel privileges, we understand that citizens of different countries deal with very different requirements to pay tax, live freely, comply with regulations and avoid scrutiny when travelling. In that regard, the number of countries a passport holder may visit does not tell the whole story. The Nomad Passport Index speaks to those seeking personal freedom and financial prosperity in a changing world, offering a deeper analysis of the true value of each passport.' Tax friendly, freedom to live and travel across Europe, and views for days. Why wouldn't you move to Ireland? While the 2025 Henley Index points to Singapore as 2025's most powerful passport, the NPI instead places Ireland firmly atop the global ranking. Looking back over previous NPI rankings it's clear to see Ireland has been in a long rivalry with Switzerland for the top spot. These two neutral nations have often dominated the rankings with consistent top marks for perception, dual citizenship and freedom while also ranking very highly for visa-free travel and taxation. This year a slight boost in Ireland's mobility score coupled with a slight dip in Switzerland's saw them swap places from their 2024 standings. Ireland has certain unique advantages that also add to its appeal. Entrepreneur-friendly tax policies, ease of travel, and fast-track citizenship options are great, but the right to live and work across the EU as well as the UK places it in a truly unique position post Brexit. Greece has made big moves up the NPI rankings. Sunsets like this are just the icing on the cake. Occupying second spot alongside Switzerland is Greece, which has leapt four places from last year's ranking. The NPI attributes this to its 'rising prominence in EU migration, investment and tax discussions, along with the expansion and streamlining of its tax incentive programs [introduced in late 2024],' that have, 'significantly enhanced its appeal among global citizens over the last 12 months.' Greece's jump up the rankings has bumped Portugal down to fourth, even though this sun-drenched slice of Iberia has actually improved its overall score. Beyond its glorious weather, Portugal remains a global favourite with visa-free access to destinations like South Africa and one of Europe's most expat-friendly tax regimes. As the report states, 'For many, it's still the EU's ultimate lifestyle passport.' Taking the fifth spot is Malta, racing up from 14th place last year. This is down to a big jump in its tax score, the result of renewed interest in its non-dom tax regime. This aided by English being its official language, great international connections and the unarguable appeal of the Mediterranean lifestyle make it a smart European base without the added tax burden. Malta making its case as a new base for HNWIs. Rounding out the top five alongside Malta is Italy, climbing thanks to the government's decision to expand the flat tax regime and widen access for high net worth individuals (HNWIs) and retirees looking for simpler tax rules. And it would be remiss to overlook Italy's many, many other qualities, from relatively low cost of living compared to much of Europe to its deep cultural well, quality of life and, of course, the food! Further down the list we come to the United Arab Emirates in 10th place, a significant drop from its position at the top of the list just two years previous. While its score is unchanged over that time, it hasn't improved like myriad other countries around it. In particular the NPI notes that 'the decline stems primarily from recently introduced taxes, signalling a clear shift in attractiveness to global entrepreneurs and raising questions about the UAE's future appeal.' Welcome to miniscule San Marino, whose passport now holds equal power to the mighty U.S. according to the NPI ranking. Elsewhere, Germany has dropped out of the top ten to 13th yet remains eight places clear of the U.K. in 21st. The U.S. meanwhile languishes in a lowly 45th position alongside San Marino, hampered by strict taxation, reduced mobility and a significant drop in personal freedoms and global perception. One area where the NPI does align with the Henley Index is at the bottom of the rankings, where once again we find Afghanistan. With lowest available scores for perception, freedom, dual citizenship and taxation, its citizens enjoy far fewer freedoms than almost any other passport holder. Indeed, only Syria, five places above it in the list, has a lower travel score. Said Nomad Capitalist research associate Javier Correa, 'While there were many winners and some losers, the key takeaway from our new research is that, in today's turbulent times, holding multiple citizenships is no longer a luxury; it is a vital strategy for navigating the modern world. This is the age of global mobility, and the most successful global citizens need to go where they are treated best, with the most comprehensive, up-to-date research at their disposal.' For a comprehensive list and look at the methodology behind this ranking of the world's most powerful passports, read and download the 2025 Nomad Passport Index.
Daily Mail
07-05-2025
- Daily Mail
The best places to live in Spain revealed - as underrated seaside destination takes the crown
From golden beaches to cheap tapas and sunny weather, it's no surprise that Spain is one of the world's top destinations for British expats. But where are the country's best places to live? A new ranking from the expat experts at Nomad Capitalist has revealed the best places to live in Spain. From holiday islands to seaside cities, here's the company's ranking of Spain's best destinations for expats... 11. Zaragoza It might not be one of Spain's most well-known destinations but Zaragoza is actually the country's fifth largest city. Situated in northern Spain, Zaragoza is the capital of the Aragon region and has cobbled streets which 'offer a journey back in time' says Nomad Capitalist. It's one of Spain's oldest cities and has a long history that dates back to the Roman Empire. As it's an inland city, Zaragoza is a 'world away from the sunny Spain depicted on postcards' so a good idea for expats who prefer the city life. 10. Ibiza Famed for its legendary parties, Ibiza is the top-rated Balearic island in the ranking. Nomad Capitalist recommends exploring the island's 'relaxed and mystical interior' which is a world away from its party-loving coast. The island tends to be busy during the spring and summer months but expats will find it much quieter in the winter season. The expat experts add: 'Despite its small size - Ibiza supports diverse and unique ecosystems, earning it UNESCO World Heritage status in 1999.' 9. Bilbao The largest city in Spain's northern Basque region, Bilbao offers easy access to the north coast's unspoiled and wild beaches. Nomad Capitalist explains that the 'mid-sized' city feels 'more manageable' than a large, crowded spot like Madrid or Barcelona. However, expats are warned that Bilbao is one of Spain's 'more expensive' cities with property prices generally higher than on the south coast. It's a great option for culture vultures as it's home to the Guggenheim art gallery, one of Spain's most iconic art destinations. 8. Granada Home to the iconic Alhambra Palace, Granada has a 'smaller expat community' than other Spanish cities says Nomad Captialist. The company explains that this offers expats who do move there the chance to 'tap into authentic Spanish culture'. Although expats will face extremely high temperatures in summer, they will also have easy access to skiing in the Sierra Nevada mountains during winter. And the experts add: 'Eating out in Granada is more reasonable compared to other cities in Spain.' 7. San Sebastian Often considered to be the foodie capital of Spain, San Sebastian also has one of the country's 'most beloved urban beaches'. Seashell-shaped Playa de la Concha has previously been named one of the best beaches in the world. Nomad Capitalist says: 'Formerly the summer residence of the Spanish royal family, it remains a stylish resort.' It adds that nothing is 'further than a 15 minute walk from the station' and expats will enjoy a 'slower pace of life'. 6. Valencia Spain's third-largest city, Valencia has a 'lower cost of living compared to other large cities', according to Nomad Capitalist. It adds: 'As the urban heart of the Costa Blanca, Valencia offers easy access to beautiful sandy beaches, all within walking distance.' Despite the dish gaining popularity all across Spain, Valencia is the real home of paella. It's enjoyed at lunch rather than dinner by locals. Expats who live in Valencia will also have easy access to high-speed rail connections to other areas of Spain. 5. Seville Seville sits at the heart of Spain's Andalucian region in the south of the country. It's a popular tourist destination with 'plenty of al fresco entertainment'. Nomad Capitalist adds: 'One of the most celebrated events is the Feria de Abril (April Fair) which transforms 75,000 square metres of the city centre into a lively fairground.' However, Seville's popularity does mean that it tends to get a bit overcrowded in summer. Expats will also need to contend with hot temperatures with the heat sometimes soaring beyond 40 degrees in August. 4. Barcelona 'A favourite with digital nomads', Barcelona is Spain's second-largest city and has a 'diverse range of expats', says Nomad Captialist. It explains: 'You don't have to leave town to find a stretch of sand, with Sant Sebastia beach conveniently located in the central La Barceloneta neighbourhood.' However as a top tourist destination, Barcelona has higher 'food costs' than other Spanish cities, warn the experts. Despite this, the expat guide says the city is one of the best places in Spain to enjoy international cuisine. 3. Madrid Spain's capital city, Madrid is a fantastic destination for expats who want to frequently visit family at home. The city has a well-connected airport while its train station offers fast access to other major hubs in Spain. Nomad Capitalist says: 'More and more expats are relocating to Madrid for new job opportunities.' As the capital city, expats can expect to find higher prices in Madrid than in smaller cities in Spain. 2. Sotogrande According to Nomad Capitalist, 'luxury living is the name of the game' in sunny Sotogrande. The gated community in Andalucia offers easy access to golf courses while many residents also take part in equestrian activities. Nomad Capitalist says: 'Sotogrande is home to an international community who have made a new life abroad.' As might be expected in a luxury area, property prices are high in Sotogrande and it's not a destination for expats on a budget. 1. Malaga Residents 'enjoy a relaxed lifestyle' and the wider region has a 'thriving expat community', says Nomad Capitalist Top of the ranking is Malaga, the heart of Spain's sunny and popular Costa del Sol region. Residents 'enjoy a relaxed lifestyle' and the wider region has a 'thriving expat community', says Nomad Capitalist. While Malaga is primarily popular for its beaches, the city also has easy access to national parks. It's also well connected to the UK with plenty of budget direct flights on offer for expats who need to visit home.
