Zurich:United States nationals make up nearly a quarter of the clientele for Henley and Partners, a firm specializing in residence and citizenship advisory services. This trend emerges as demand for alternative residence and citizenship options rises among citizens from affluent democracies, in anticipation of the company's upcoming 20th Global Citizenship Conference in Zurich.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the United Kingdom ranks sixth while Germany is ninth among Henley and Partners' client nationalities by applications. France has seen significant movement, climbing to 14th from 36th place. Australia and Canada are also listed among the top 15 countries, with India leading in inquiries.
Over the past ten months, Henley and Partners has collaborated with clients from more than 100 nationalities across 50 residence and citizenship programs. Of these, 36% of applicants are already residing outside their country of origin. Dr. Juerg Steffen, CEO of Henley and Partners, stated that this trend indicates a strategic approach to managing long-term uncertainty instead of a desire to emigrate or a lack of confidence in their home countries.
The Global Citizenship Conference, taking place from November 23 to 25 at The Dolder Grand, will gather over 400 participants, including government representatives, economists, international investors, and global mobility specialists. Dr. Christian H. Kälin, Chairman of Henley and Partners, highlighted the convergence of two significant forces families seeking greater freedom in choosing their residence, work, and investment locations, and governments aiming to attract talent and capital essential for their future.
Discussions at the conference will cover how governments can balance public concerns over immigration with the need to attract investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers. Other topics include the shifting geography of global wealth, changes in the global tax landscape, statelessness, and digital identity. The event will also feature the Global Citizen Award Gala Dinner on November 24, in collaboration with the Swiss-based non-profit Andan Foundation, which supports refugees and displaced people.