Famous Celebrities With Golden Visas
Many A-listers are quietly joining the ranks of international investors opting for Golden Visas or second citizenships. Seeking more freedom, flexibility, and security, here are a few big names you might not expect to find navigating the world of investment migration.
Golden Visa Celebrities – Who’s Securing Global Access and How
Madonna – Portugal Golden Visa
Madonna’s move to Lisbon made headlines back in 2017, when she gain Portuguese residency through the purchase of her historic mansion in Sintra. At that time, it was possible to qualify under Portugal’s Golden Visa program by purchasing real estate for a minimum of €500,000. Since then the golden visa legislation has changed, but Portugal remains a top destination for the affluent to purchase second homes.
A-List Property Owners in Portugal – Possible Golden Visa Beneficiaries
While their official visa statuses remains unknown, these high-profile individuals have all purchased high-value property in Portugal during the window when real estate qualified for the Golden Visa in Portugal. Given the values and timing of these purchases, it’s quite possible that several leveraged them for EU residency.
- Scarlett Johansson
- Nicole Kidman
- Christian Louboutin
- Wayne Rooney
- Sharon Stone
- Eric Cantona
- Bonnie Tyler
Portugal has long attracted affluent investors and global celebrities alike, thanks to its temperate climate, exceptional quality of life, luxury real estate, rich culture, world-class cuisine, and diverse leisure opportunities.
UAE Golden Visa – A Global Magnet for Talent and Influence
The UAE Golden Visa program – particularly its Exceptional Talent category – has become a go-to for celebrities, athletes, and industry leaders looking to live or spend extended periods of time in Dubai – a highly-desirable city amongst the ultra rich and famous. Unlike traditional investment routes, this long-term visa category recognises achievement over capital, granting 5 -10 year renewable residency with no income tax and full business/property ownership rights.
Notable UAE Golden Visa holders:
- Cristiano Ronaldo – Recognised for global sports achievement
- Giorgio Armani – Fashion industry pioneer
- Will Smith – Global cultural influence and entertainment legacy
- Priyanka Chopra Jonas – Celebrated for cultural and philanthropic impact
- Sanjay Dutt & Shah Rukh Khan – Bollywood stars with deep UAE ties
Celebrities with Second Citizenship
Eric Schmidt – Cyprus Citizenship by Investment
The former Google CEO reportedly applied for the Cyprus citizenship-by-investment program back in 2020. Though now closed, Cyprus offered one of the fastest EU citizenship paths through significant real estate and bond investments at the time.
Robert De Niro – Antigua & Barbuda “Economic Envoy”
De Niro was granted a unique citizenship status in Antigua and Barbuda for his ongoing investment and promotion of the island, including his investment in a Nobu restaurant and his plans for the Paradise Found Resort. While not a formal CBI recipient, his economic impact echoes the objectives of traditional investment-based programs.
Zhang Yiming – Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services
The founder of ByteDance (TikTok) reportedly acquired Malta Citizenship by Investment under its high-level naturalisation program. The route, which includes a combination of significant government donations and property commitments, grants Maltese citizenship and a passport – typically within 12–36 months.
Peter Thiel – New Zealand Citizenship via Investment & Contribution
PayPal co-founder and billionaire investor, Peter Thiel was granted New Zealand citizenship in 2011. His application cited “exceptional circumstances,” including major investments and his strategic value to the country. While the New Zealand Golden Visa did not exist at that time they now offer investment routes to residency through the Active Investor Plus Visa program.
Are Golden Visas Only For the Rich and Famous?
Absolutely not. Whilst, high-profile individuals often make headlines for securing second residencies or citizenships, the reality is that most applicants are everyday investors—entrepreneurs, professionals, and families – simply planning ahead. Whether it’s for mobility, security, or peace of mind, Golden Visas and Citizenship by Investment programs are accessible to far more people than you might think. With options starting from just over $100,000, securing your global future could be closer than you realise.
At La Vida, we help clients access these same programs – with expert advice, clear guidance, and full compliance. Contact us to learn more.
