In this episode, we explore how U.S. investors are using Self-Directed IRAs (SDIRAs) to participate in Golden Visa programs across Europe — particularly in Portugal, Greece, and Hungary. While these structures offer exciting possibilities for diversification and residency planning, they also introduce significant IRS compliance risks and potential UBIT/UBTI exposure that many investors overlook.

We unpack the intersection between U.S. retirement law and foreign investment migration programs, highlighting what advisors and investors need to know before funding a Golden Visa through a retirement vehicle.

🧩 Key Topics Covered

• 
  
• 
  
• What Is a Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA)?
• 
  
• How these accounts expand investment options beyond traditional stocks and bonds.
• 
  
• 
  
• 
  
• Golden Visa Funds Explained:
• 
  
• Investment funds that meet government criteria to qualify for residency programs in Europe.
• 
  
• 
  
• 
  
• Typical Investment Sectors:
• 
  
• • Venture capital
• 
  
• • Private equity
• 
  
• • Technology companies
• 
  
• • Cultural projects
• 
  
• 
  
• 
  
• Minimum Investment Thresholds:
• 
  
• Vary by country, with each program setting its own capital and regulatory standards.
• 
  
• 
  
• 
  
• Key Investor Considerations:
• 
  
• • Due Diligence: Vet fund managers, governance, and underlying assets.
• 
  
• • Risk: Recognize volatility and liquidity constraints.
• 
  
• • Compliance: Ensure fund eligibility aligns with the host country’s Golden Visa rules.
• 
  
• 
  
• 
  
• UBIT & UBTI Concerns:
• 
  
• Understand how Unrelated Business Income Tax (UBIT) and Unrelated Business Taxable Income (UBTI) can apply to IRA-held investments in active business ventures or leveraged structures.
• 
  
• 
  

💡 Key Takeaways

• 
  
• 
  
• Golden Visa funds can be powerful diversification tools but must be handled with expert guidance.
• 
  
• 
  
• 
  
• UBIT/UBTI exposure can negate much of the tax deferral benefit of an IRA if improperly structured.
• 
  
• 
  
• 
  
• Investor due diligence and compliance reviews are essential to avoid disqualification or unexpected taxation.
• 
  
• 
  
• 
  
• Always consult qualified tax and legal advisers before investing through an SDIRA abroad.