Isolation or Paradise? New Zealand is famous for its stunning landscapes and has a reputation for a very high quality of life. However, for those considering a move, their residency through investment program is one of the most expensive--almost three million (US) dollars. So, when it comes down to it, what does one get for that price? Is everything that expensive? Does the remoteness get lonely for new immigrants, or is it a sanctuary from the chaos around the world? Still connected, but at a safe distance!

Mona and Rebecca are out to find the truth! Native New Zealander Mischa Mannix joins to discuss the pros and cons of the Kiwi lifestyle.

"Denied" Part 1:

As the Trump Administration takes a firm hold of all immigration, this is a word that is becoming all too common. Sadly, it's becoming a more common story. A person applies for EB-5. They listen to their lawyer, they follow all the rules, and they patiently wait for their conditional green card. Then, years pass. They get a job, buy a home, and build a life. They pay their taxes and become part of their community. However, at the final stage of the process, despite doing everything right, they get a denial. Worse, they get a notice to appear before an immigration judge. Why? And what can they do?

Unfortunately, more and more people are asking those questions. Why is USCIS issuing more Notices to Appear? How worried should people be? Has there been any success fighting these? Mona and Rebecca sit down with John Pratt to tackle the complicated thorny topic of denials in the final stretch of the EB-5 process.

Funding a Portugal Golden Visa

Portugal has jumped in popularity. The European nation has inarguably been one of the most popular golden visa programs to pursue. While buying a house no longer gets one residency, thousands are still choosing to make the country their home.

For folk from the United States, there is an opportunity to use 401K and Retirement funds to actually fund a Golden Visa to Portugal. What are the options or alternatives to using retirement funds for folk from other countries? Are there any tax benefits?

Mona and Rebecca sit down with Tiago Gali Macdeo to discuss funding options as well as to why Portugal continues to draw so many applicants from the United States and around the world. What challenges can one expect to face? And does the country really live up to all that hype?

Are you considering immigration to the US through an investment? Investing via Trump’s Gold Card over an EB-5 Investment? This podcast episode is for you. This podcast episode offers a focused discussion on the Gold Card and EB-5 investment options, highlighting key differences and considerations for potential investors. Hosts Mona and Rebecca are joined by Radhika Chopra, an experienced advisor from InvestAmerica, a firm with a strong track record in EB-5 project selection, having assisted over 700 families and raised over $400 million in capital.

While the podcast revolves around the fundamental differences between the two tracks, as the Gold Card involves a non-refundable donation, EB-5 investments offer the potential for a return of capital, along with interest. However, this potential return comes with a greater need for thorough due diligence, the importance of enlisting qualified financial advisors and specialized due diligence firms to assess project viability. Radhika discusses and highlights the complexities involved in evaluating EB-5 projects, from understanding market dynamics to navigating regulatory hurdles.

Beyond the financial aspects, the discussion addresses the challenges investors face in understanding the U.S. landscape, navigating cultural differences, and establishing direct lines of communication with developers. The episode underscores the importance of looking beyond regional centers and engaging directly with developers to gain a comprehensive understanding of the project's potential and risks.

This episode serves as a valuable resource for anyone considering investment as a pathway to US immigration, providing insights into the key factors that can lead to a successful and informed investment decision.

A Realistic Look at Trump’s Latest Proclamation on the Gold Card

It’s alive–almost! After over six months of relative silence, Trump’s proposed “gold card” has finally started to show some movement. However, the executive order issued on September 19, 2025, has raised even more questions. What’s the difference between a gold card and a platinum card? How would you apply? Is the 90-day deadline even feasible to get it off the ground? And what does the Gold Card mean for EB-5? Mona and Rebecca break down what we know so far, including how the card competes with existing USCIS programs, how it compares to golden visas in other nations, and what we can expect to see in the next few months.

Is Russia on your radar for investment or relocation? Prepare to have your perceptions challenged! This podcast dives deep into the often-misunderstood landscape of Russia, moving beyond the headlines to explore the lifestyle, culture, and surprising economic opportunities it presents.

Join us as we welcome Ilja Belobragin, a seasoned expert with over 20 years of international experience. Ilja sheds light on why Russia remains an intriguing option, offering actionable advice for those seriously considering a move.

This episode tackles head-on the initial doubts and concerns surrounding Russia, providing honest answers to the questions listeners are likely thinking. We delve into political climate, sanctions, and the overall economic situation.

Discover niche industries and sectors in Russia that are particularly attractive to foreign investors and professionals right now. Explore the aspects of Russian culture and lifestyle that appeal to newcomers.

How does the cost of living in major Russian cities compare to other popular expat destinations? And what are the requirements for visas and residency?

We dispel common misconceptions about Russia, offering insights into cultural nuances that newcomers should be aware of to integrate successfully.

Russia isn't for everyone, but it offers unique opportunities and a different perspective. Tune in for this fresh perspective.

Are you a recent citizen of a CBI nation eyeing the U.S. or considering investment opportunities in the Caribbean? Then you need to tune in! The US has launched a pilot program requiring certain visa applicants to post bonds of up to $15,000, signaling that citizens of CBI nations may be the next target under the Trump administration’s expanding immigration policies.

Mona and Rebecca, along with their guest, Patrick Peters from the Montreal based CBI company ClientReferrals dissect the latest barrier to traveling into the US for certain folk. Is the recent pilot program requiring visa applicants to post bonds up to $15,000 a targeted hurdle, or simply a sign of a broader shift? We'll unpack the details, the concerns, and the implications for those seeking to enter the U.S.

But that's not all! The conversation shifts to the sunny shores of St. Kitts & Nevis, where innovative strategies are underway to boost the island's economy. Mona, Rebecca and Patrick take an exclusive look at the Public Benefit Option (PBO) under the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. Discover how a $250,000 contribution can unlock citizenship while fueling economic growth and supporting vital projects like affordable housing.

Patrick illuminates how the Government of St. Kitts & Nevis, through the National Housing Corporation, is leveraging these funds to create housing solutions for its citizens. Is the PBO a win-win, offering investors a path to citizenship while driving positive change in the Caribbean? Or are there hidden complexities to consider?

From steering potential travel barriers to exploring impactful investment opportunities, this episode of Global Investment Voice delivers the insights you need to stay informed and make savvy decisions. Don't miss out – listen now!

In this episode, Mona and Rebecca tackle the tough and unpleasant topic of bankruptcy within EB-5 investment projects, sparked by recent news of a high-profile EB-5 project bankruptcy in Utah. The hosts discuss the inherent risks of EB-5 investments, address common misconceptions about bankruptcy (including the differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 11), and explore how bankruptcy can impact EB-5 investors at various stages of the process. Real-world examples—including the South Dakota Meat Market project—highlight both the challenges and the potential paths forward for investors. The episode also offers practical advice on what investors can do if their project faces bankruptcy, the importance of due diligence, and why bankruptcy isn’t always the end of the road for EB-5 participants.