Lump-sum taxation in Switzerland, Italy, Greece and Poland – Potential effects on Finnish tax revenues
Edman, Mikael (2025)
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025121838071
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025121838071
Tiivistelmä
This thesis explores whether Finland could benefit from implementing a lump-sum taxation regime designed for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs). It addresses two central questions: to what extent taxation influences the relocation decisions of globally mobile wealth, and whether introducing such a regime could positively affect Finnish tax revenues.
The study draws on comparative evidence from Switzerland, Italy, Greece, and Poland; countries currently employing preferential tax regimes for wealthy foreign residents. Methodologically, the research includes a literature review, comparative policy analysis, and fiscal scenario modelling for Finland’s current tax framework.
Findings indicate that tax incentives significantly affect the migration behaviour of ultra-wealthy individuals, and jurisdictions with lump-sum regimes often capture meaningful tax revenue despite fewer participants. In contrast, Finland’s existing tax structure which is characterised by high taxation of both capital and earned income offers limited attraction to international HNWIs.
The results suggest that a well-designed lump-sum regime, targeted at new residents who would not otherwise locate to Finland, could yield net fiscal gains.
The study draws on comparative evidence from Switzerland, Italy, Greece, and Poland; countries currently employing preferential tax regimes for wealthy foreign residents. Methodologically, the research includes a literature review, comparative policy analysis, and fiscal scenario modelling for Finland’s current tax framework.
Findings indicate that tax incentives significantly affect the migration behaviour of ultra-wealthy individuals, and jurisdictions with lump-sum regimes often capture meaningful tax revenue despite fewer participants. In contrast, Finland’s existing tax structure which is characterised by high taxation of both capital and earned income offers limited attraction to international HNWIs.
The results suggest that a well-designed lump-sum regime, targeted at new residents who would not otherwise locate to Finland, could yield net fiscal gains.