Good morning, global opportunists! 

Welcome to the 26th article from The Sovereign Atlas! Every Friday we publish quick updates that benefit your global sovereignty lifestyle. 

Here’s what we’ve got this week:

• A Closer Look at Armenia 🇦🇲

• Americans Renouncing Citizenship is in an Uptrend 🇺🇸

• Kazakhstan & Schengen Access 🇰🇿

• Portugal Sees Record Number of Foreigners Relocating 🇵🇹

Let’s go!

UPDATE

A Closer Look at Armenia

For just a few thousand dollars and no residency requirement, you can obtain Armenian citizenship in three years through their remote-friendly program.

Why Choose Armenian Citizenship?

Armenian citizenship offers visa-free travel to 69 countries, including Russia and China. Plus, Armenia's potential EU membership could further boost its value.

Minimal Investment, Maximum Benefits

Armenia’s permanent residency requires a simple investment, often just a few thousand dollars in a local business. The process is straightforward and can be done remotely.

Path to Citizenship

After three years of permanent residency, you can apply for citizenship without needing to live in Armenia. However, note that males aged 18-27 must fulfill military service requirements, though exemptions are available.

UPDATE

US Citizenship Renunciation Continues

An increasing number of Americans are giving up their citizenship due to financial and social reasons.

Tax Troubles

The primary reason is the US's unique citizenship-based taxation, which taxes citizens regardless of where they live. High-net-worth individuals face significant tax burdens and complex compliance requirements.

Political and Social Climate

Political polarization and social unrest are also driving factors. Many seek stability and safety abroad, away from the heightened tensions and frequent gun violence in the US.

The Process and Consequences

Renouncing citizenship involves paperwork, fees, and potential exit taxes. It also means losing access to US benefits and facing possible travel restrictions to the US.

UPDATE

Kazakhstan & EU Working on Streamlined Schengen Access

Kazakhstan and the European Union are negotiating to make Schengen visas more accessible for Kazakh citizens.

Diplomatic Discussions

Deputy Foreign Minister Roman Vasilenko highlighted the importance of easing visa requirements during talks with EU officials. The aim is to boost travel and trade between Kazakhstan and EU member states.

Trade and Cooperation

With the EU being a significant trade partner, accounting for 30% of Kazakhstan’s foreign trade, simplifying visa procedures could enhance economic ties and increase exports, especially agricultural products.

Environmental Collaboration

Both parties also agreed to collaborate on climate change initiatives, supporting Kazakhstan's goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2060.

SPONSORED BY LATAM PLAN

🌐Get Your Next Latin American Residency with LatAm Plan

Did you know Latin America has the easiest, fastest, most affordable, and most abundant options to obtain residency in the entire world?

While Latin America has so many simple and affordable options for a 2nd (or 3rd) residency, it can be hard to find a trusted partner to get these residencies without being overcharged by abogados or by getting outright scammed.

This is where LatAm Plan comes in. We provide a secure portal & dashboard, connecting you directly with vetted advisors and attorneys who value your time and trust. We’ve been through the same process of searching for the best of the best advisors/attorneys in Latin America.

LatAm Plan saves you time and money by providing experts from 15+ Latin American countries with a combined immigration experience of 47+ years along with AI to speed up your application timeline. Here’s some features we offer:

• Services in more than 15+ Latin American countries🌎

• Mix of brilliant advisors & attorneys ready to help🤝

• Secure portal & dashboard - E2EE privacy & security features🔐

• Bespoke planning for you & your family👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

• AI enabled checklist for quick application processing 🤖

• Discounts up to 30% on document prep & processing📃

• And more!

LatAm Plan is in the waitlist/beta stage currently. You can join the waitlist here. If you are ready to start your LatAm journey now, we can help you now. Email us at [email protected]

UPDATE

Portugal Still Top EU Choice

Portugal's resident migrant population has surged by 130%, surpassing one million in 2023.

Record Numbers

In 2023, Portugal recorded over one million resident migrants, a significant increase from 480,000 in 2018. This rise is driven by an influx from both EU and non-EU countries.

Economic Impact

Migrants contributed over €1 billion to Social Security in 2022, demonstrating their positive economic impact. However, they received €257 million in social benefits, resulting in a net gain for Portugal.

Stricter Regulations

Despite the benefits, Portugal plans to tighten migration regulations, requiring non-EU migrants to secure a job and contract before entry.

MARKET REVIEW OF THE WEEK

Ankara, Türkiye 🇹🇷

Market Growth and Trends

Ankara's real estate market has experienced notable growth, driven by its status as Turkey's administrative center and a hub for government employees and university students. The city has seen a substantial annual increase in housing prices and rental yields.

Average Rental Yields

Rental yields in Ankara are attractive for investors, with an average gross rental yield of around 7.12% as of early 2024​​. This yield is bolstered by high demand from the city’s large population of government officials, embassy staff, and students.

High-Demand Niches

Key niches in Ankara's real estate market include:

• Student Housing: Due to the presence of many universities.

• Luxury Apartments and Family Homes: Especially in Çankaya and Sincan.

• Commercial Properties: Given Ankara's role as the administrative capital​​.

Investment Opportunities

Lucrative opportunities exist in newly developed projects with modern amenities. Properties near universities and government offices are particularly attractive for stable rental income.

BOOK OF THE WEEK

Thick Face, Black Heart

Thick Face, Black Heart by Chin-Ning Chu is a profound exploration of Eastern philosophy and its application to achieving personal and professional success. The book delves into the concepts of "Thick Face" and "Black Heart," which represent the ability to shield oneself from criticism and judgment while pursuing one's goals with unwavering determination and sometimes ruthless efficiency. Chu combines historical anecdotes, Eastern wisdom, and practical advice to illustrate how these principles can help individuals navigate the complexities of life and business.

The first principle, "Thick Face," encourages developing a resilient mindset that deflects negative opinions and self-doubt, enabling one to stay focused on their objectives. The second principle, "Black Heart," involves strategic thinking and the willingness to make tough decisions that others might shy away from, without succumbing to moral rigidity. Through these teachings, the book provides readers with a unique framework for overcoming obstacles, maximizing potential, and achieving success while maintaining inner peace and integrity.

THAT’S ALL FOR THIS WEEK

Like what you see? Subscribe Now or share with family and friends.

If you’d like to get in contact with me, please reach out to me by sending a DM on Twitter: @sovereignatlas