How US Expats Move to Latin America: Residency & Citizenship Options in Central and South America

Why Consider Central and South America?

1. Natural Beauty and Rich History

First, Central and South America are full of breathtaking landscapes and rich history at every turn. Beautiful sandy beaches, lush jungles, high mountain peaks, arid deserts, rainforests the size of whole countries – Nature in the Western Hemisphere rivals any region in the world.

From Mexico City’s vibrant streets to the stunning landscapes of the Argentine Patagonia, most South American countries have the nature to make any nature lover blush.

While most South American countries are young and newly independent from European countries in the last two centuries, some cities still offer world-famous history, especially when you consider the native populations who were present before the appearance of Spanish and Portuguese empirical conquistadores and the subsequent revolutions.

2. Affordable Cost of Living

Second, the cost of living in these foreign countries, even in major cities, can be significantly lower than in American cities. Inflation has caused daily life in North America to skyrocket in costs. Everything from simple groceries have risen steeply in cost.

And because of this disparate cost of living, Latin countries have seen a huge wave of remote workers and retirees who want to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle at a fraction of what they’d spend back home.

Here’s something we always tell our clients: Your money goes significantly farther outside the United States. The lower cost of living in many South American countries means you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle or even better lifestyle at a far lower price. Whether you’re in big cities or coastal towns, you’ll find the cost of everything from housing to healthcare remarkably lower.

3. Strong Expat Communities

Third, and this is crucial – The investment and immigration policies in many Latin American countries are becoming increasingly welcoming to foreign investors and American expats. Unlike other European countries with complex immigration laws (or those that favor illegal migrants), several South American countries have streamlined their visa application process and made it easier for everyone from retirees to digital nomads to live in their jurisdictions.

And because of the rise of migration to Latin America, most urban centers in the region have thriving expat communities of which you can become a member. These groups make the transition smoother for newcomers, offering new relationships, support with the potential language barrier, and integration resources for expats.

4. Political and Economical Stability

Last, many countries in the region have made strides in creating a strong economy and lasting political stability. In the past few decades, nations like Mexico and Brazil have globalized, opened their economies, and become major players on the world stage.

As we’ve seen throughout the world, this strategy has led to conditions that contribute to a growing economy and that provided opportunities for both local and foreign investors.

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LGP Central & South America Residency Options

Lincoln Global Partners is a customer-centric international immigration consultancy specializing in residency and citizenship by investment programs in Europe, the Caribbean, and the Americas. We have helped clients in more than 25 countries acquire second residencies and citizenship globally.

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Argentina Residency Pathways

The first South American country on our list is Argentina: it offers one of the best combinations of European cultural influence and South American lifestyle you'll find anywhere in the world. With its rich history, unique architecture, breathtaking landscapes, excellent food and wine culture, and relaxed immigration policies, Argentina has become increasingly attractive for American expats wanting to move abroad.

By opening a local account and demonstrating a monthly income of about US$1,000, one can qualify for temporary residency in Argentina. Then, after just two years of residency in the country, they can naturalize as a citizen of Argentina – even before they qualify for permanent residence after year 3.

Another option would be the Argentina Digital Nomad Visa. Applicants from countries with visa-free access to Argentina are eligible to apply by proving a minimum income of at least U$ 2,500 per month, approximately. But attention! This digital nomad visa is only valid for 6 months and can only be extended for another 6 months.

Perhaps the best South American country for investment migration, Argentina has a strong passport and fast path to citizenship that other Latin American countries cannot match.Rentista VisaDigital Nomad VisaMinimum income requirement:

U$1,000 per month (rentista)

Minimum Stay in the country to be eligible for the renewal:

6 consecutive months per year

Processing time:

from 30 to 90 working days

Pathway to Citizenship:

After 2 years of legal residency in the country

Move to Latin America

Brazil Residency Pathways

Few countries can offer as diverse cultures as Brazil can. The country offers different residency solutions, allowing a relocation route for all types of budgets and investment goals. The first option leads diretly to Permanent Residency and it's known as the Investor Visa (VIPER). Although minimum investment requirements claim one can invest about US$25,000 in a local business and qualify for immediate permanent residence, successful cases have come from real estate investments of $120,000 or more. To maintain the visa and residency rights in Brazil, one must maintain their investment.

Earners of passive income are also eligible via the Retiree's Visa. To qualify for temporary residency in Brazil, an investor can show about US$2,000 in monthly income from pensions, dividends, passive income, or annuities. After holding the retiree's visa for two years, they can apply for permanent residence then naturalize as a Brazilian citizen after four more years.

One of the most popular options is the Brazil Digital Nomad Visa. If a remote worker wants to live in Brazil for a longer period than their tourist visa permits, the digital nomad visa may be an effective option. Applicants must show either US$1,500 in monthly income or at least US$18,000 in bank account statements. This visa does not give successful applicants access to the local job market but can be extended an additional year after the first year.Investor VisaDigital Nomad VisaMinimum income requirement:

U$ 1,500 per month or U$18,000 in savings (Digital Nomad).

Minimum Stay in the country to be eligible for the renewal:

At least 6 months in a year

Processing time:

from 30-90 working days

Pathway to Citizenship:

After 4 years of legal residency in the country

Move to Latin America

Colombia Residency Pathways

Another South American country enters into the list: Colombia, one of the best South American country options for American expats. Why?

Major cities offer world-famous affordable healthcare (medical tourism is popular in Colombia!). Colombia is just three hours south of the United States, which makes travel easy. And the affordable cost of living makes it attractive for those seeking to live abroad. For those moving abroad to Colombia, check out these options: The first option is the Investment Visa: If one wants a pathway to permanent residence and/or citizenship in Colombia, he or she can obtain temporary residency by investment of at least US$80,000 in local real estate or US$25,000 in a local business. After five years, they will qualify for permanent status provided they maintain their investment. And after ten years, they may naturalize as Colombianas citizens.

Now, for those who don't want to commit to an investment right away, we can recommend the Colombian Digital Nomad Visa. While the digital nomad visa does not lead to permanent status in the country, one can qualify for a one-year remote work visa by demonstrating a monthly income of just US$800 and health insurance coverage.
Investor VisaDigital Nomad VisaMinimum income requirement:

U$ 800,00 per month (digital nomad)

Minimum Stay in the country to be eligible for the renewal:

At least 6 months per year

Processing time:

from 30 to 90 working days

Pathway to Citizenship:

After 5 years of legal residency in the country

Move to Latin America

Costa Rica Residency Pathways

Costa Rica has made significant strides in becoming one of the best Latin American options for expats moving abroad. Today, it counts about 70,000 US citizens among its inhabitants. In the last decade, Costa Rica has leapt to the front of the conversation. With its stunning landscapes and lower cost of living, it's no wonder that expats are thriving here.
One of the first few visa options Costa Rica offers those interested in moving abroad is the Rentista Visa. By showing a monthly income of about US$2,500 or making a local bank account deposit of US$60,000, one may qualify for the Rentista Visa, which was designed for retirees. We've helped remote workers and digital nomads apply successfully for the program as well.

This should not be mistaken with the Pensionado (Retirement) Visa. The Pensionado Visa more strictly requires retirement income like pension payments or annuities totaling about US$1,000 monthly. Popular among retirees wanting a more relaxed lifestyle than in the United States or Canada, features of life in Costa Rica like community events and expat hubs make integration easy.
Finally, for the reomote workers looking foran adventure in paradise, the Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa might be the solution. While other countries typically design their digital nomad visas for temporary stays, Costa Rica's digital nomad visa allows remote workers to stay in the country for one year and to renew the visa for a whole other year. To obtain the temporary visa, applicants must prove a monthly income of US$3,000 (US$4,000 for families applying together) and an active health insurance policy.

What makes Costa Rica particularly appealing is their territorial tax system, which only taxes locally-sourced income. Foreign-sourced income is exempt from personal income taxes.

However, the path to citizenship in Costa Rica is long and difficult. One must reside in Costa Rica continuously for 7 years and learn the foreign language to qualify.Rentista & PensionadoDigital Nomad VisaMinimum income requirement:

U$1,000 monthly (Pensionado)

Minimum Stay in the country to be eligible for the renewal:

6 months per year

Processing time:

30-90 working days

Pathway to Citizenship:

at least 7 years of legal residency in the country

Move to Latin America

Mexico Residency Pathways

Mexico's growing economy and diverse natural environment (snowy peaks, dry deserts, lush jungles, and touristy beach towns) make it a top choice for those wanting to move abroad, especially for those wanting close proximity to their native country. Large cities like Mexico City and Guadalajara can offer all the modern amenities and international travel connectivity remote workers and North Americans require.

For retirees and those who want access to world-class health care and a low cost of living, Mexico checks those boxes as well – often for a fraction of the price you'd pay back home. The healthcare system offers both public and private insurance options.

Plus, Mexico has several visa options for those wanting to spend significant time in the country, such as the Temporary Resident Visa. To qualify for temporary residency in Mexico, you must meet either:

Monthly income: US$4,300+ (previous 6 months) OR;
Bank balance: US$73,000+ (past 12 months)

If you meet those qualifications, you can apply for temporary residency, which grants temporary stay for the duration of 1-4 years. After four years of holding temporary residency, one can apply for permanent status in Mexico.

Another route is to directly obtaining Permanent Residence in the country. If you want to qualify immediately for permanent residence instead of temporary residence, one must meet higher financial thresholds as detailed below:

Monthly income: US$7,300+ OR
Bank balance: US$290,000+
This is a permanent residence, so no renewal is needed going forward if the applicant initially qualifies and obtains the visa.

Additionally, Mexico offers a temporary residency visa and a pathway to permanent resident status for those who invest a minimum amount of US$586,000 in local real estate.

A couple attractive features of residency in Mexico are the low qualification requirements, the lack of need to invest in the country (just need to prove financial solvency according to the requirements), and pathway to citizenship. To qualify for citizenship, one must be present in the country for at least 180 days a year for five continuous years preceding their application.Independent Means ProgramInvestor VisaMinimum income requirement:

U$ 73,000 annual income requirement (independent means)

Minimum Stay in the country to be eligible for the renewal:

no minimum stay requirements

Processing time:

from 30 to 90 working days

Pathway to Citizenship:

4 years of legal residency

Move to Central America

Panama Residency Pathways

Did you know Panama is fully dollarized? Panama's strong economy and dollarized currency could make the transition smoother for many American expats. Alongside Chile, the country anchored by Panama City's international vibe and unique position between Central and South America has led the region in development in the past few decades.

The most common way to obtain your residency in Panama is through the Friendly Nations Visa.The famous Friendly Nations visa program has helped many investors integrate smoothly into local life. To qualify, one must be from one of 50 eligible countries and become an employee of a Panamanian company (work visas therefore included) or invest US$200,000 in local real estate.

Other routes are also available for global citizens seeking to enjoy the perks of the country. For example, the Qualified Investor Permanent Residency allows investors to buy local real estate worth at least US$300,000 and immediately qualify for permanent resident status in the country. Nevertheless,if making an investment is not your desired move, the Pensionado Visa allows those with stable monthly passive income to acquire residency in the country. One can obtain immediate residency by demonstrating US$1,000 in a monthly passive income source.

Finally, an option that has been gaining a popularity boost is the Panama Digital Nomad Visa. Remote workers can apply for a nine-month temporary stay visa in Panama if they have health insurance coverage and US$36,000 in annual income.

Citizenship is possible after five years of residency in the country. While Panama has not processed many naturalization cases in the past decade, naturalization is supposedly allowed under Panamanian immigration law. However, the process is unique: One's application for citizenship must be approved by several different parties, including the President's office.Digital Nomad VisaPensionado VisaInvestor VisaMinimum income requirement:

U$ 1,000 per month (retirement visa) or U$ 200,000 investment in real estate

Minimum Stay in the country to be eligible for the renewal:

At least 6 months in a year

Processing time:

30-90 working days

Pathway to Citizenship:

after 5 years of legal residency

Practical Considerations for You to Move to Latin America

So, which is the best country for you? Retirement, digital nomad, and investment visas can vary significantly from nation to nation, so you must identify your goals first. Then, you can decide the correct path forward in a foreign country.

Moving to a new country is not always easy. But with the right partners, you’ll transition smoothly from your native country. Here’s what we recommend paying particularly close attention to:

Legal Requirements

Immigration laws can be complex, and they change frequently. Plus, what’s done in practice may differ from what’s written in the law – especially in Latin American countries. Each country has its own visa application process and income requirement levels. The key is getting up to date information from reliable sources, so you can decide what you want to do with your next steps.

Lincoln Global Partners is made up of global citizens with roots in several South America countries.

Healthcare Planning

One of the first things you need to understand is the healthcare system in your chosen country. Many countries offer universal healthcare, but you might want to complement it with a private plan for better coverage and assurance (just in case). Additionally, as suggested by the booming medical tourism industry in the region, the private healthcare system in most Central and South American nations is superb.

Financial Considerations

One of the big advantages of these two countries (North and South America) is the lower cost of living. However, some items cost more here than they would in your native country. Make sure you understand your options and consider your budget before making any serious move to a new country.

Cultural Integration

Here’s the truth about living abroad that many won’t tell you: Language barriers can make or break your experience. We typically recommend that you learn the local language or at least develop language skills of your new country to make a smooth transition. Plus, if you have children, plan for private school and community and cultural events to integrate them as well. Better economic opportunities are typically a result.

Final Considerations When Relocating to Central & South America

As we’ve mentioned, Latin American countries offer diverse cultures, economic opportunities, and a relaxed lifestyle that many have already found irresistible. Whether you’re drawn to the big cities of Brazil, the isolated jungle of Costa Rica, or the growing economy of Colombia, there’s likely a perfect spot for you.

Remember, the key to a successful move abroad is thorough preparation and realistic expectations. As a team of global citizens with significant experience in Latin America, Lincoln Global Partners can help you navigate this world of visas and residency options so you put your best foot forward in your move abroad. Reach out for a consultation, and let’s explore your options together.

Why Choose Lincoln Global Partners? Residency & Citizenship Brought to you By Real Global Citizens

Our dedicated team, working remotely from various countries around the world, brings a wealth of firsthand experience and local expertise to the table. Founded by David Lincoln, who has been a digital nomad for 15 years, our company was born from a genuine passion for helping others embrace the freedom and opportunities of the global citizen lifestyle. Whether you're an individual or a business supporting remote employees, our consultancy services ensure a smooth and efficient visa application process, empowering you to work from anywhere with ease.Latin America Residency Specialist

Georgea Rios

With a background in International Relations from Brazil and International Business Administration from Austria, Georgea will be the first contact in your journey to become a global citizen with us. She will assist you throughout your decision-making process in selecting the best Latin America residency solutions.Book A ConsultationNews from the Global Citizens World

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