Forget yachts and private jets. The new status symbol in today’s world is a second passport, or at least a second residency abroad. For wealthier individuals in countries with limited visa-free travel options, it offers far more freedom to travel, live, and earn more abroad.
Consider this: my friends from South Africa can visit only 100 countries without a visa, whereas I can visit 185 as an American. Furthermore, they earn roughly half the paycheck my wife did for the same job with the same employer there.
Why Get a Second Passport?
While Americans may not need a second passport for visa reasons, many are attracted to the idea of living in Europe or elsewhere abroad. A second passport or residency can provide a gateway to new cultures, professional opportunities, and a higher quality of life.
For instance, you can live overseas with a work visa sponsored by an employer. That’s how my wife and I lived in Abu Dhabi for four years and how we currently live in Brazil. By securing a second residency, we’ve been able to embrace a lifestyle rich in experiences and professional growth.
In the current global landscape, where mobility and flexibility are increasingly valued, having a second passport is more than just a status symbol—it’s a strategic asset.
