November Digest: MM2H Rebound, Gulf Visa Shifts & New Investor Opportunities
Global mobility & residency-by-investment updates, from Malaysia and Kuwait to UK proposals, New Zealand delays, and Italy’s push for digital-nomad tax incentives.
November saw several pivotal developments across continents: established programs reopening with reforms, Gulf states competing for capital, European countries rethinking residency value, and new proposals for modern investors. Below are five key updates that could reshape investor strategies heading into 2026.
1. Malaysia Approves Nearly 6,000 MM2H Passes Under Fresh Reforms
Malaysia’s revitalized Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program has just granted long-term residency visas to 5,972 foreign nationals as of August 31, 2025, including 2,134 principal pass holders and 3,838 dependents.
The updated program, restructured in June 2024, now features tiered entry through property investment, stricter due diligence, and tighter processing oversight. Authorities have mandated background checks, intelligence screening, and mandatory use of registered agents, marking a significant shift in standards and transparency.
Investor Insight:
MM2H is no longer a casual residency scheme, it’s become a more credible, compliance-driven pathway. For investors seeking long-stay flexibility with family inclusion and access to Southeast Asia, this reboot could offer excellent value before thresholds potentially rise again.
2. Kuwait Launches 10–15 Year Investor Residency Track
In an unexpected move, Kuwait rolled out a long-term residency programme granting eligible foreign investors permits of up to 10 or 15 years, a rare offering in the Gulf region.
Under the new scheme, residency duration is linked to investment size or property ownership. This revised framework aims to draw long-term capital and business activity to Kuwait, positioning the country as a competitive alternative to Dubai or Abu Dhabi for investors seeking stability and long-term residency options.
Investor Insight:
For investors wanting exposure to Gulf markets without annual visa renewals, Kuwait’s new residency track could be an increasingly attractive stepping stone, especially as regional competition for residencies intensifies.
3. UK Lawmakers Propose £2.5 Million Investor Visa, Aiming Higher for Residency
In the UK, lawmakers are advancing a proposal for a new investment-based visa requiring £2.5 million investment, aimed at attracting high-net-worth individuals and business investors to sustain capital inflows and stimulate growth. Though still in the legislative phase, if enacted, this would mark a shift toward premium-level investor visas in the UK.
Investor Insight:
This signals a broader trend in established Western markets, moving away from low-entry residency and toward premium, high-investment visas. Investors should act soon if they aim to secure residency under current thresholds before requirements rise.
4. New Zealand Delays Real Estate Access for Foreign Buyers Until 2026
New Zealand initially considered relaxing its Golden Visa and foreign-buyer restrictions, but the government has now confirmed a delay, foreign property purchases remain closed until at least 2026. This postponement affects investors eyeing real estate residency or long-term residency tied to property ownership.
Investor Insight:
The delay underscores risk: regulatory unpredictability remains a real threat even in stable Western jurisdictions. Investors focused on migration must maintain flexibility, and consider jurisdictions with clearer, more stable rules.
5. Italy Proposes Dedicated Tax Incentives for Digital Nomads & Remote Professionals
Italy is reportedly drafting legislation to offer favorable tax incentives for digital nomads, remote workers, and foreign professionals relocating to the country. While not strictly a residency-by-investment programme, this move could position Italy as a hybrid destination combining lifestyle, EU access, and modern remote-work tax benefits.
Investor Insight:
For entrepreneurs, remote professionals, and global families, Italy’s proposed incentives could offer a unique blend, EU residency benefits without the need for heavy capital investment. Worth watching as Italy seeks to diversify its talent pool.
Summary
November’s developments reinforce a broader narrative:
- Asia and the Gulf are reopening or enhancing residency pathways with renewed compliance and longer-term visas.
- Western and developed countries continue to re-evaluate, and often raise, the bar for investor access.
- Flexibility, timing, and regulatory awareness are now more critical than ever for global mobility planning.
For investors, the lesson is clear: act early, stay diversified, and balance ambition with due diligence.
Secure Your Next Move
At DMC Global, we monitor every global shift, new regulations, opening windows, tightening rules. We help visionary families and entrepreneurs choose the right residency or citizenship path, tailored to your lifestyle, business goals, and long-term legacy.
📩 Contact us today for a private consultation and explore the best global mobility opportunities before the next wave of changes.
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