A growing number of wealthy Californians are seeking residency abroad through so-called "golden visa" programmes, the Los Angeles Times reports.

Golden visas are residence-by-investment schemes offered by a range of countries. In exchange for a qualifying investment — commonly in real estate, government bonds, business creation, or a direct contribution to a state fund — applicants receive temporary or permanent residency rights, often with a path to citizenship and, in many programmes, favourable tax treatment.

According to the report, affluent residents of California are exploring these routes as a way to diversify their residency options. The interest reflects broader trends among high-net-worth individuals in the United States, who have increasingly looked at second residency or citizenship as a tool for lifestyle flexibility, tax planning, and geographic mobility.

Residence-by-investment programmes vary widely by country. Popular destinations for American applicants have historically included European Union member states and Caribbean nations, each with its own investment thresholds, processing times, renewal conditions, and physical-presence requirements. Eligibility rules, dependent-inclusion policies, and deadlines change frequently, and several European programmes have faced tightening scrutiny from regulators in recent years.

Anyone considering such a route should verify current programme terms directly with the official government authority administering the relevant scheme. Investment amounts, qualifying asset classes, and residency obligations differ from country to country and are subject to change without notice.

This development follows a wider pattern of demand for alternative residency options among wealthy Americans. Immigration professionals report that interest in second residency has moved from a niche strategy to a mainstream consideration for high-net-worth households, particularly in states with high tax burdens such as California.

The Los Angeles Times report did not specify which individual programmes the Californians profiled are pursuing. Readers should consult official government sources for each country's programme before making any decisions, as eligibility criteria and investment requirements are set by national authorities and enforced through formal application procedures.

Passport File will continue to track changes to residence-by-investment programmes worldwide as governments amend their rules.