With Donald Trump reclaiming the Oval Office as the 47th President of the United States, Americans are facing a new political reality. For some, Trump’s victory in 2024 signals a return to conservative values and pro-business policies, while for others, it raises concerns over shifts in social policies, foreign relations, and personal freedoms. The election results have prompted many Americans to consider their future options, with an increasing number exploring second citizenships or alternative residencies as a “Plan B” for financial and personal security.
This trend isn’t entirely new.
According to Forbes, between 2005 to 2009, less than 2,500 Americans gave up their citizenship while data from the U.S. Treasury (via the Federal Register) shows the number was a staggering 33,000 from 2016 to 2023.
What may have influenced such a big number of renunciations from 2016:
- Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) which was introduced by Obama in 2010 but fully implemented during this time 2016-2023;
- During the Trump administration (2017–2021), strict immigration policies, including travel bans targeting several predominantly Muslim countries and increased difficulties for dual citizens, created significant challenges;
- Alongside these immigration policies, the COVID-19 outbreak (2019–2021) further exacerbated issues, making global mobility a major source of frustration
- And, of course, changes in tax laws and increased global reporting obligations made maintaining U.S. citizenship more complex and burdensome for those living abroad.
And now the 2024 US election has intensified the interest of many Americans seeking ways to protect their financial stability, mobility, and personal freedoms amid a deeply polarized political climate.
In this article, issues driving Americans search for second citizenship and residency options and why securing a “Plan B” has become essential for those looking to safeguard their future.
Key Issues Shaping Americans Interest in a “Plan B”
The outcome of this election has heightened focus on five core issues: the economy, immigration, personal freedoms, foreign policy, and the state of democracy itself. These issues are no longer just political topics; they directly impact the quality of life and financial security of Americans considering residency options abroad.
1. Economy
Trump’s administration is expected to focus on pro-business, low-tax policies, which may benefit certain industries and investors. However, his plans for tariffs on imports and potential immigration restrictions could also lead to higher costs for everyday goods and contribute to inflation. For some, this economic landscape has sparked interest in establishing secondary residencies in tax-friendly countries as a hedge against rising costs and possible financial instability.
2. Immigration
Under Trump, immigration control will be a major focus, with proposed policies to curb undocumented immigration and increase border security. While some Americans support these measures, others are more concerned with securing their own freedom to move and live abroad if they choose. The idea of a second citizenship has gained appeal as a means of preserving personal choice and ensuring mobility in a world where borders and policies may become more restrictive.
3. Women’s Reproductive Rights
Trump’s stance on reproductive rights is expected to reinforce conservative policies, leaving individual states potentially enacting their own laws on the matter. This fragmented approach may lead some Americans to seek options where personal freedoms, including reproductive rights, are protected. The ability to choose where to live based on alignment with personal values has become a key factor in the decision-making process for many.
4. Foreign Policy
Trump’s America First doctrine emphasizes prioritizing domestic issues over international involvement. While this approach may resonate with those focused on national interests, it could also lead to heightened global tensions. Americans who prioritize a global outlook or have ties abroad may seek the stability that comes from holding multiple residencies or citizenships, providing a safeguard in case international relations take unexpected turns.
5. Democracy and Division
Perhaps the most profound issue is the sharp division within the U.S. Trump’s return to the presidency has deepened the polarization in the country, with political differences no longer just about policies but a reflection of fundamentally opposed views on what the country should be. This environment has led some Americans to explore a “Plan B,” ensuring they have the flexibility to make life choices independent of the political landscape.
A Surge in Interest for Second Residencies and Citizenships
The 2024 election has intensified Americans interest in second citizenship and residency options. As more individuals prioritize stability, Savory & Partners has seen a 10x increase in inquiries from Americans for secondary residencies and citizenships. Many Americans are now redefining the American Dream to include a global perspective and personal security that extends beyond the U.S. borders.
For some, the decision to explore these options is less about abandoning the American Dream and more about redefining it to include a global perspective and a sense of personal security that isn’t tethered to a single nation’s policies. High-net-worth individuals, business owners, and families are looking for ways to mitigate risks and ensure they have choices that align with their values.
A Changing Landscape of Global Mobility
The concept of global mobility has shifted from a luxury to a practical necessity for many individuals. Holding a second citizenship or residency offers not only financial and lifestyle benefits but also the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have options, regardless of political changes at home. Countries across Europe, the Caribbean, and parts of Asia and the Middle East have tailored programs to attract investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals seeking stable, business-friendly environments.
As our CEO Jeremy Savory puts it, “Political leaders often focus on staying in power rather than serving individual well-being. That’s why more people are securing second residencies—as a safeguard, a form of control over their own futures.” This sentiment has become especially relevant for Americans who are increasingly considering what it means to be resilient and prepared in a world of political and economic uncertainty.
Looking Ahead: Freedom, Security, and Choice
The recent U.S. election outcome has served as a wake-up call for many Americans, who are now actively considering options for securing their personal and financial futures. The rise in demand for secondary residencies and citizenships reflects a growing awareness that, in a world where political and economic landscapes are in constant flux, having a “Plan B” can be a wise and empowering choice.
As we enter a new era, the message is clear: for many, securing a future with flexibility, autonomy, and security isn’t just a matter of wealth—it’s about taking control over one’s destiny, regardless of where that future may lead.
