Jeffrey Henseler, CEO, and Jose Charo, Managing Partner – Levant at Passport Legacy, run a globally trusted residence and citizenship-by-investment firm recognized for delivering bespoke, high-value immigration investment solutions. Passport Legacy is dedicated to providing a wide array of services specifically designed to streamline and simplify the often complex and daunting process of acquiring citizenship while simultaneously enhancing global mobility.
Helping Clients Acquire Citizenship While Enhancing Global Mobility
Founded in 2018, Passport Legacy is a Swiss-owned and managed advisory operating through six global offices, and the preferred partner for thousands of international investors who benefit from their unparalleled expertise and personalized approach to addressing their needs. They work hand-in-hand with governments worldwide to provide seamless access to top-tier residence and citizenship-by-investment programs offering life-changing benefits.
With their proven track record and impressive 99.9 percent approval rate, Passport Legacy takes great pride in being the trusted provider of choice for tailored residence and citizenship-by-investment solutions in the international market. Their reputation is built on the trust and confidence of thousands of investors worldwide, who rely on them to deliver customized solutions that meet their unique needs and goals.
As an established government-authorized advisory, Passport Legacy’s international team of immigration investment experts works with clients every step of the way to secure extraordinary results. With their comprehensive offerings, they guide individuals through the intricate procedures involved in citizenship-by-investment programs offered by different countries, empowering them to secure alternative citizenship, expand their international opportunities, and ultimately, find a sense of security and tranquility.
Passport Legacy’s team of experts is committed to delivering top-notch advice and support at every step, ensuring compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements. In addition, they go the extra mile by assisting clients in exploring investment prospects, evaluating real estate options, and providing relocation services. They understand that each individual has unique circumstances and aspirations, and tailor their approach to meet their needs.
Passport Legacy takes pride in upholding the highest global standards, recalibrating service excellence benchmarks within every market they operate in and being the provider of choice for bespoke residence and citizenship-by-investment solutions trusted by thousands of investors around the world. Guided by a strict code of conduct, they operate with an unwavering commitment to their core values of integrity, professionalism, quality, and service excellence to deliver outstanding value to clients ensuring their utmost satisfaction throughout their journey.
“In 2018, I founded Passport Legacy with the vision of providing a comprehensive and personalized approach to immigration investment. As a Swiss-owned and managed residence and citizenship-by-investment firm, we take pride in our in-depth industry expertise and ability to understand and meet the unique needs of every one of our clients.” – Jeffrey Henseler
The Profound Impact of Supporting People in Their Citizenship Journey
Jeffrey’s decision to pursue a career in the investment migration sector resulted from a personal, impactful experience. When he was 19 years old, he did an internship in the investment migration sector in the UAE and travelled to Bahrain to meet a Syrian family and assist them in obtaining their Antigua and Barbuda passports. Witnessing their sheer joy and gratitude when they received their new passport was an unforgettable moment for him.
“At that moment, I realized the profound impact I could make in people’s lives by supporting them in their investment and citizenship journey. This transformative encounter was a pivotal moment that ignited my passion for helping individuals achieve their dreams of global mobility, security, and new beginnings. It motivated me to dive deeper into the investment industry, exploring avenues to empower others in unlocking life-changing opportunities through strategic investments,” he recalls.
From that point forward, Jeffrey dedicated himself to gaining expertise in the field and working alongside industry professionals from around the globe. He immersed himself in the complexities of investment programs, global citizenship, and the ever-evolving landscape of international regulations. With unwavering commitment and a drive to make a difference, he embarked on his journey in the investment sector, driven by the belief that everyone deserves the chance to build a brighter future.
“Today, I’m privileged to be part of a team that empowers individuals and families to realize their aspirations and create a lasting impact through investment opportunities,” says Jeffrey. “That single encounter in Bahrain became the foundation of my career, shaping my path and driving me to excel in the investment sector. It reaffirms my purpose each day, reminding me of the profound impact we can make when we combine our expertise, dedication, and the power of investment to transform lives.”
Hard Work Is an Essential Component of Success
For Jeffrey, leading by example is crucial to success. As a leader, he believes that it’s essential to set the right example through integrity, transparency, and a strong work ethic. By demonstrating these qualities, he aims to inspire his team to follow suit, fostering a culture of excellence and integrity within the organization.
He also insists that hard work is an essential component of success and that there are no shortcuts to achieving one’s goals. Putting in the effort, going the extra mile, and persevering through challenges is vital for realizing personal and organizational objectives.
Additionally, Jeffrey notes that prioritizing the personal development of employees is important, as success is not just about individual accomplishments but also about nurturing a supportive and growth-oriented environment for the entire team. By investing in their professional growth, providing opportunities for learning and development, and recognizing their contributions, he helps create a motivated, engaged, and empowered workforce to achieve work goals within different departments.
Finally, Jeffrey notes that success is about making a positive impact on the lives of others. Beyond financial gains, true success lies in creating opportunities for others, driving societal progress, and leaving a positive legacy that will last for generations to come. He believes that aligning business objectives with a greater purpose can help raise the quality of life within their communities and make a meaningful difference in the world.
Jose also believes that success is the result of consistency and hard work and that it’s not an overnight achievement, but rather the outcome of effort and dedication over a prolonged period. Success requires setting clear goals, developing a plan, and consistently working towards those goals, even in the face of challenges and setbacks.
Jose notes that success is being transparent to the client and is underlined by exceeding client expectations. Transparency helps them maintain open lines of communication, provide accurate and honest information, and deliver on their promises.
“When clients can rely on us and feel confident in our transparency, it leads to long-term success for both parties involved,” he states. “We always want to overdeliver. Never over-promise and under-deliver. It’s not enough to simply meet the agreed-upon terms — success lies in going above and beyond what is expected. By consistently delivering more value and exceeding client expectations, we build a reputation for excellence and establish long-lasting relationships.”
Embodying The True Essence of Leadership by Helping Others Create a Better Life
As a leader, Jeffrey considers bearing witness to the positive transformation and improvement in people’s lives as the best part of his career. However, outside of the many milestones that Passport Legacy achieved over the years, the establishment of an orphanage in Mozambique is closest to his heart and he considers this personal project his greatest accomplishment.
“I’m delighted to say this initiative has provided a nurturing haven for 40 orphaned children, offering them a ray of hope for a better future,” he reveals. “Initiating this orphanage’s development has allowed me to contribute to the well-being of these vulnerable children, granting them stability, care, and a pathway to success. Observing their resilience and witnessing their personal growth has been an incredibly humbling experience. Through this endeavour, we’ve provided them access to essential resources such as education, healthcare, and emotional support, empowering them to break free from the cycle of poverty and adversity and forge a new path for themselves.”
For Jeffrey, this accomplishment surpasses mere business achievements, embodying the true essence of leadership. It showcases the potential that leaders possess to utilize their resources, influence, and compassion to effect meaningful change in the lives of others. “This orphanage stands as a constant reminder of the profound impact we can have by striving to make a positive difference in our communities and contributing to the overall betterment of society,” he remarks.
Jose considers one of his most significant accomplishments as a business leader as helping his fellow Lebanese citizens find an alternative path for a better life through citizenship-by-investment programs, and given the challenges faced by Lebanon, he’s honored to help its people and beyond increase their global mobility, expand their options, and secure a better future.
“I’m proud to be part of their journey and to know I made a positive impact on the lives of my fellow Lebanese. Helping them overcome obstacles brings me a deep sense of fulfillment and motivates me to continue my work,” Jose maintains noting that this benefits not only the individual but also their family, even potentially generations to come.
Embracing Challenges as Opportunities for Growth and Learning
Jeffrey firmly believes that challenges are not obstacles to avoid but opportunities for growth and personal development as they have the power to make us stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to navigate the complexities of life.
“Throughout my journey, I’ve encountered various roadblocks that taught me invaluable lessons. One crucial lesson I’ve learned is that not everyone is good for you. Along the way, I’ve encountered individuals who may not have had my best interests at heart or did not align with my values. These encounters taught me the importance of discernment, surrounding myself with a supportive and trustworthy network, and being mindful of the people I allow into my inner circle,” he observes.
Another fact Jeffrey realized is that not everyone is genuinely happy about his success. This taught him the significance of staying focused on his goals, maintaining a positive mindset, and celebrating his achievements without allowing external judgments to deter his progress.
He points out that the key to coming out on top in the face of challenges is to remain steadfast in one’s purpose, maintain a robust support system, and cultivate self-awareness. “By embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, surrounding ourselves with positive influences, and staying true to our aspirations, we can transform adversity into a catalyst for personal and professional advancement,” he affirms.
Jose agrees that challenges are indeed a catalyst for personal growth and development, and notes that throughout his journey, he’s encountered various roadblocks that taught him valuable lessons and strengthened his capabilities as a business leader.
One significant challenge he faced was in dealing with the diverse mentalities of the Lebanese diaspora residing in different countries. Each Lebanese community has its own unique mindset and expectations, requiring him to be adaptable and flexible in his approach. Understanding and addressing their needs and concerns became crucial in providing effective services.
For instance, when engaging with the Lebanese community in the GCC region, Jose learned that they perceived alternative citizenship as a form of security and reassurance against potential sanctions that could be imposed on Lebanese citizens. As a result, they often sought to switch their residence permits from their Lebanese passports to their newly acquired passports.
On the other hand, when working with the Lebanese community in Africa, Jose discovered that their primary motivation for obtaining a second passport was to enhance their business opportunities and global mobility. Understanding their entrepreneurial mindset, he was able to assist them in utilizing their second passports effectively for expanding their business ventures and exploring international opportunities.
“These challenges have taught me the importance of adaptability, open-mindedness, and cultural sensitivity. Embracing these challenges and understanding the diverse mentalities of the Lebanese diaspora allowed me to enhance my leadership skills, broaden my perspective, and deliver exceptional services that address the unique requirements of each audience,” says Jose.
Supporting Equal Opportunities and a More Inclusive, Equitable Society
Jeffrey aspires to influence a change in the generation by instilling in them the unwavering belief that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. He hopes to inspire them to chase their dreams fearlessly, reminding them that no goal is too big or too far out of reach. Through leading by example, he aims to teach the value of perseverance, hard work, and the importance of taking calculated risks.
Jeffrey is also passionate about imparting the knowledge of early investing to future generations, starting with educating his kids and empowering them with financial literacy from a young age, helping them understand the power of investing and the impact it can have on their lives in the long run.
“By teaching them about smart financial decisions, saving, and the benefits of starting early, I plan to set them up for a future of financial stability and independence,” he explains. “Through these efforts, I aim to inspire a mindset of ambition, resilience, and financial intelligence in the next generation. By fostering these qualities, we can create a positive ripple effect that transcends individual lives and contributes to a generation empowered to make a lasting impact on the world.”
Jose believes that equal access to global travel opportunities is a powerful catalyst for fostering growth and understanding, and firmly advocates for the idea that people should be able to travel wherever they want, regardless of their nationality or background. He observes that by breaking down barriers to travel and promoting cultural exchange, we can inspire a generation that values diversity, embraces different perspectives, and develops a global mindset.
“Through my role at Passport Legacy, I strive to empower individuals with the necessary tools and information to navigate the complexities of international travel, whether it’s through assisting them in obtaining alternative citizenship or providing guidance on visa processes. By enabling individuals to explore the world and experience different cultures, we can create a generation that values open-mindedness, tolerance, and appreciation for the richness of global diversity,” he elaborates.
Jose strongly believes in advocating for equal opportunities for all, irrespective of one’s nationality or origin, because in today’s interconnected world, it is essential to challenge the barriers that limit individuals’ potential based on their nationality alone.
“Whether someone is American, Lebanese, or from any other part of the world, they should be offered the same opportunities to succeed and thrive,” he insists. “By advocating for equal opportunities and dismantling systemic barriers, we can empower individuals to pursue their aspirations and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society. My message to aspiring leaders is to champion the values of equality and fairness and to actively work towards creating a world where everyone has an equal chance to succeed and make a positive impact.”
A Leading Light in Citizenship Acquisition and Global Mobility
As the CEO of Passport Legacy, Jeffrey’s responsibilities encompass various strategic and operational duties to steer the company toward growth and success in the ever-evolving field of residence and citizenship by investment. He sets the overall direction and vision, formulates business strategies, and ensures the highest level of service and satisfaction for their valued clients. As a deeply self-driven leader, he engages with various teams within the organization, collaborating on key initiatives, and providing guidance and support to drive their collective goals forward.
“I believe in leading by example and nurturing a culture of self-driven individuals passionate about their work. This word encapsulates my unwavering commitment to personal growth, innovation, and continuous improvement. Inspired by the renowned entrepreneur, Tony Elumelu, and his philosophy of the three Cs – Curiosity, Confidence, and Creativity – I strive to cultivate a mindset of exploration, unwavering belief, and innovative thinking within our team. These qualities enable us to stay at the forefront of the industry, embrace new opportunities, and deliver exceptional solutions that exceed our client’s expectations,” he elaborates.
As the Managing Partner for Passport Legacy Levant, Jose’s responsibilities encompass a range of strategic and operational tasks, including exploring new markets, identifying emerging opportunities, and driving the growth of our business. A typical day at work for him involves overseeing the operations of their Beirut office and leading a dedicated team of professionals.
A persistent leader, Jose is also responsible for managing and guiding their team members, ensuring they have the support and resources needed to excel in their roles. His role also involves strategic decision-making, collaborating with clients, and ensuring the delivery of exceptional services that meet their client’s unique needs and objectives. Additionally, he actively seeks out new market prospects, conducts market research, and fosters relationships with key stakeholders.
By staying informed about industry trends and identifying potential avenues for expansion, Jose aims to position Passport Legacy as a leader in citizenship acquisition and global mobility. Through persistence, determination, and a focus on continuous improvement, he strives to drive the success of Passport Legacy and make a lasting impact in the industry.
A Shared Passion for Padel Tennis and Family Time
While Jeffrey is committed to driving the success of the company, he also prioritizes his personal well-being and spending quality time with his family as balancing work, family, and personal interests is key to his overall fulfillment and success. Outside work, he’s passionate about padel tennis and enjoys trying new things. Networking is another strength as he believes in the power of building connections. Even during vacation, he finds joy in staying active and continuing to work on projects that excite him.
When it comes to business, Jeffrey believes in leading by example and cultivating a positive work culture. He regularly communicates the company’s vision and goals, ensuring each team member understands their critical role in their collective success, as recognizing and appreciating individual and team achievements plays a significant role in keeping the team motivated.
Jose insists that maintaining a balance between his personal and professional life is of utmost importance to him, and to achieve this balance, compartmentalization is key. Regardless of how his day unfolds, he consciously leaves work behind when he comes home, so he can fully immerse himself in his personal life, spending quality time with his loved ones and pursuing activities that bring him joy and relaxation.
Jose also prioritizes healthy living as a means to maintain a balanced lifestyle, as taking care of his physical and mental well-being is essential for sustaining his energy and focus in both his personal and professional spheres. He makes it a point to engage in regular exercise, whether it’s hitting the gym or participating in sports such as padel tennis, which he also enjoys. These activities promote physical fitness and provide him with stress relief and rejuvenation.
Expanding Globally to Serve Clients Worldwide
Jeffrey has ambitious plans for the future of Passport Legacy, one of which is to expand globally and establish it as a leader in the residence and citizenship-by-investment industry by further enhancing its reputation for delivering bespoke, high-value immigration investment solutions to clients worldwide.
He reveals that Passport Legacy has recently expanded to launch Property Legacy, a premier real estate company, positioning it as a one-stop destination for prime real estate listings across the UAE and beyond. By offering a comprehensive range of investment options, he aims to provide clients with a seamless experience and maximize their investment potential.
On a personal level, Jeffrey’s goal as a business leader is to continuously inspire and empower his team to achieve their full potential. He believes in fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and personal growth to create an environment where individuals can thrive and make a meaningful impact, so they can collectively drive the success of the organization and exceed their client’s expectations.
Jose notes that one of Passport Legacy’s key goals is to expand its global presence by establishing more offices in strategic locations, enabling them to serve clients better and meet their needs in diverse regions. As a business leader, his personal goals align with the organization’s long-term success, and he’s committed to maintaining and further enhancing its good reputation by consistently delivering exceptional services and upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
Take Risks and Never Stop Learning and Growing
Jeffrey’s message to aspiring leaders, is to dream big and embrace challenges, as success comes from taking risks, learning from failures, and constantly seeking growth opportunities. “Surround yourself with talented individuals, nurture strong relationships, and never stop expanding your knowledge and skills. Remember, leadership is about inspiring others, staying adaptable in a changing world, and always striving for excellence,” he advises.
Jose’s message to aspiring leaders is simple: “Never stop learning and never limit your dreams. Embrace a mindset of continuous growth and improvement. Invest in your personal and professional development, stay curious, and be open to new opportunities and perspectives. Remember that your potential knows no bounds, so be resilient and determined to pursue your goals. Create your own circumstances by taking ownership of your journey and having the courage to turn your vision into reality.”
