Which Jurisdictions Offer Best Tax Optimization for UHNWIs?

Compare top global jurisdictions for tax efficiency. From Singapore to Switzerland, find the best fit for your family office's tax strategy.

DeWealthy ~ International Tax Planning for Family Offices

In 2025, the global landscape for Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals (UHNWIs) has pivoted from simple tax avoidance to "Substance-Driven Optimization." With the dismantling of traditional regimes like the UK's non-dom status and the rise of G7-aligned transparency, the choice of a jurisdiction is now a balance between a fiscal shield and an institutional reputation.

This guide provides the 2025-2026 data required to navigate the world’s top wealth hubs. To ensure these residency moves are backed by a bulletproof legal framework, refer to our pillar article on how to build a robust asset protection strategy.

Italy: 

The Neo-Resident Premium Choice

Italy has solidified its position as the #1 destination for European wealth migration. By replacing progressive tax brackets (up to 43%) with a single annual fee, Italy offers unparalleled predictability.

The 2026 Price Increase

As of December 2025, prospective residents are facing a critical deadline.

• The 2025 Entry: Establish residency before December 31, 2025, to lock in the €200,000 annual flat tax.

• The 2026 Entry: New applicants starting January 1, 2026, will be subject to a €300,000 annual fee under the new Budget Law.

• Grandfathering: Existing residents are protected; those entering in 2025 keep the €200k rate for the full 15-year duration.

Singapore: 

The Asia-Pacific Family Office Hub

Singapore remains the gold standard for institutional wealth, but 2025 updates to the Section 13O and 13U schemes emphasize local economic impact.

• Minimum AUM: Section 13O now requires S$20M at the point of application.

• Staffing Mandate: Section 13U requires at least three investment professionals, ensuring the family office is a genuine business entity.

• Local Spending: Annual local business spending must reach S$200k to S$500k, depending on the AUM tier.

Switzerland: 

Stability After the 50% Tax Referendum

In November 2025, Swiss voters decisively rejected a federal proposal to introduce a 50% inheritance tax on estates over CHF 50M. This result has reaffirmed Switzerland as the world’s most stable private wealth sanctuary.

• Lump-Sum Taxation: The Forfait system remains the most discreet and predictable model for those not seeking gainful employment in Switzerland.

• Wealth Tax: While most cantons levy a small wealth tax (0.1%–0.5%), the absence of federal inheritance and gift taxes for direct descendants keeps Switzerland highly competitive.

2025 Data: 

Jurisdictional Performance Table

Feature	Italy	Singapore	Switzerland	UAE
Annual Fee/Tax	€200k (2025)	17% (on non-exempt)	Negotiated	0% (Personal)
Inheritance Tax	0% (Foreign)	0%	0% (Direct)	0%
Wealth Tax	Exempt	0%	0.1% - 0.5%	0%
Reporting (CRS)	Exempt (RW Form)	Full Disclosure	Full Disclosure	High Compliance

How-To: 

4 Steps to Choosing Your Jurisdiction

Step 1: 

Define Your "Tax Base"

Are you seeking to shield global investment income (Italy) or active business profits (UAE/Singapore)? Italy is superior for passive earners, while the UAE favors entrepreneurs.

Step 2: 

Establish "Mind and Management"

In 2025, "Paper Residency" is dead. You must spend 183+ days in your chosen jurisdiction and hold your corporate/trust board meetings physically on-site.

Step 3: 

Layer with Asset Protection

Residency is only the fiscal layer. You must pair your move with asset protection strategies for wealthy individuals to ensure that litigation in your home country cannot reach your new host country assets.

Step 4: 

Execute the "Clean Break"

Formally notify your previous tax authority (e.g., UK’s HMRC or the US IRS) of your departure. Retaining a "lifestyle tie" to your old country can lead to dual-taxation audits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I move to Italy and still keep my UK business?

• Yes, but dividends sent to you in Italy will be covered by the €200k flat tax. 

• However, ensure the "Mind and Management" of the UK business stays in the UK to avoid Italian corporate tax.

Is the UAE still tax-free in 2025?

• For individuals, yes. 

• For businesses, a 9% corporate tax now applies to profits over AED 375,000, though many Free Zone entities remain exempt.

Does Switzerland share my bank data with my home country?

• Yes. Switzerland participates fully in the Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI). 

• Privacy now comes from legal structures, not bank secrecy.

Conclusion

The "entry price" for fiscal security is rising. Whether it is Italy’s 50% rate hike or Singapore’s increased staffing mandates, the window for 2025 entry is closing. 

Investors who act now lock in lower costs and provide their families with a decade of legal and fiscal certainty.

Reference

• Italian Revenue Agency (2025): Update on Art. 24-bis Substitute Tax thresholds.

• Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS): 2025 Family Office Grant & Section 13O/U Guidelines.

• Swiss Federal Council: Official Results of the November 2025 Inheritance Tax Referendum.