Thailand seeks bigger role as global wealth migration reaches record high

Thailand is positioning for a larger role in global wealth migration as 142,000 high-net-worth individuals are expected to relocate worldwide in 2025, according to Henley & Partners. The trend is drawing attention to rising foreign demand for residential property in Bangkok and Phuket, along with stronger interest in Thailand’s Long-Term Resident visa programme.

The 2025 estimate compares with about 110,000 annual relocations before the pandemic, pointing to what the source described as a structural shift rather than a temporary change. It also reflects intensifying competition among countries seeking to attract both private capital and internationally mobile talent.

UAE, Singapore and Australia lead competition for mobile wealth

The source identified the United Arab Emirates, Singapore and Australia as leading destinations for relocating wealthy individuals. It said those countries have advanced not because they are without risk, but because they offer policy continuity, regulatory clarity and long-term stability.

That mix has become increasingly important as wealth migration expands beyond home purchases or residency planning. The movement now reflects how investors assess confidence in a country’s rules and whether those rules are likely to remain consistent.

Thailand gains visibility but long-term pull remains uncertain

Over the past two to three years, Thailand has appeared more prominently on the global map for mobile wealth, supported by property demand and visa interest. The source said the country has attracted tens of thousands of applicants to its LTR visa programme.

It also drew a distinction between people who relocate permanently and those who divide their lives and work across several countries. Thailand appears to be benefiting more from the second group, suggesting it is seen more as a flexible base than a fully anchored long-term destination.

The source added that data from the World Bank and Bank of Thailand show much capital entering developing economies still arrives as short-term portfolio flows rather than long-term foreign direct investment.

Source: https://www.bangkokpost.com/opinion/opinion/3246745/new-role-in-age-of-wealth-migration