10 BEST Pensioner Visas (from $400/month income requirements)

All of these countries have visa income requirements that are $1350/mo or less (one is $400!) and NONE require a large deposit into a local bank.
Following our last video about countries where you can live for less than $1,000/month cost of living, several of you pointed out that some of those countries have retirement visa income requirements that are much higher than $1K/mo.
Even though that video wasn't about retirement visas and all of those countries have non-pensioner visa options with lower or no income requirements, we wanted to share this list with you in case you're a retiree on a tight budget.
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[@AmeliaAndJP]

This is the Patreon July Member’s Choice Video, which means we recorded and shared it with our patrons weeks ago before the recent events in Ecuador. We still live in Ecuador and we plan to stay unless things get dramatically worse. Depending on where you’re moving from, Ecuador may seem too dangerous to you. For others, it may still seem safer than where you live now. We feature 10 countries in this video that have retirement visas with low income requirements so if Ecuador is out, consider one of the other 9. They’re all good options depending on what’s important to you. For timely updates about Ecuador and other expat news, sign-up for our free newsletter: ameliaandjp.com/newsletter/

[@patriciaflaherty]

It still seems like much of Ecuador isn't dangerous for the average expat, despite recent events. Here in the USA most of my time is spent working from home and doing very normal things like getting groceries or going out to lunch with a friend. Could there be a drive by shooting in my neighborhood that could cause me to be hit by a stray bullet? Yes, but that's never happened and it's not something I worry about. Do you think Ecuador is on a track to become unsafe for people just living in a modest house, outside a large city, keeping to themselves, just living a boring life? I know of one deadly home invasion where an expat was killed, but I have some suspicions about that whole incident.

[@nala3038]

@@patriciaflaherty tell me more about that incident

[@grabowskycountry]

Thank you for pinning this. Stay safe and live life fully, Cheers

[@pkerber]

@@patriciaflaherty - as you’ve seen over the past few days, the situation in Ecuador has deteriorated rapidly.

[@HomoEconomicus-tn2wt]

Hi A&J, I found your videos very interesting, one thing I'm a bit foggy on in the income requirements that I've read is... Will they accept an investment account as proof of income ( 401k/IRA ) ?. Hypothetically, 1 Million dollars. I prefer to keep my money in the stock market and so I would not be interested in purchasing an annuity or fixed income investments, I am looking for somewhere to live cheaply and watch my investments continue to grow. I will not receive social security for another 15 years.

[@sandrabedard7848]

We retired in Costa Rica and love our lives here. We definitely live cheaper here than USA. We shop at our local Farmers market and support the Locals. We live away from tourism and Expat communities and live among our local people. We don't eat at restaurant chains and don't shop at Expat stores. We live simple, comfortable and healthy lives here. It all comes down to a person's WANTS versus NEEDS. Some Expats move here with the same attitude and wants as where they came from and have to have the expensive everything and bring that here and then complain that its expensive. Yes things have gone up like everywhere in the world however Costa Rica is still cheaper for many of us that choose simpler lifestyle without all the glam and material things. We immersed ourselves into the People, culture, history, language and food and we are happy 😊. All our friends are local people and our friendships are priceless!! Thanks for Sharing Amelia and JP. Pura Vida. Love your haircut Amelia 😍

[@Lisa-oy9ts]

I lived in Costa Rica as well, in the mountains of the Central Valley, a Village of 200 locals. I did enjoy some American comforts, built an American style home, otherwise, lived the tico lifestyle and loved it. I plan to move back, or somewhere in another foreign Country in a few more years.

[@jcrivera24]

What you mention about expats (usually Americans) keeping their "best of the best" (thus expensive) things and lifestyle, that's what eventually causes prices to be rocketed (supply vs demand). So if they complain later, in part it's their fault.

[@sandrabedard7848]

@@Lisa-oy9ts that's awesome, We live in Central Valley also up in the mountains of Heredia

[@tech9iner]

THANKS for #SHARINGitFORWARD heroes!

[@pathkris2984]

Can you get by with English? When you say cheaper than USA, can you please clarify the average monthly spending for a simple lifestyle?

[@Donnie-Lee-Gringo]

I have researched Albania. Only $875 a month required. It is right next to the ocean across from Italy, and borders Greece, Plus US American passport holders may stay up to 1 year without a visa before committing to the retirement decision there.

[@EvaOwen]

It looks like it is $1000 a month for Albania (by Googling it just now).

[@frankkluz9787]

I've heard several good things about Albania & '''if''' I remember correctly several speak some English and many are friendly to US citizens. -?-

[@AmeliaAndJP]

It's great that you can go for a year without truly committing!

[@jduplease2002]

I was in Albania last year beautiful place and they love Americans (seriously). Currently I’m in Cuenca Ecuador, love it here but Albania is cheaper for the most part

[@Donnie-Lee-Gringo]

Thanks for the response. Nice to know, I researched Cuenca first a few years ago. But ended up here in Brazil. Last year, I learned about Albania, so may go there. @@jduplease2002

[@Stef-wz7rl]

Thanks for mentioning Bulgaria. Some more info: In addition to a government pension that pays monthly (Social Security or similar), you'll need to have a Bulgarian bank account with at least US $1200 in it. You'll need to prove that you have somewhere to live in Bulgaria, such as a notarized lease or deed to a home. Taxes are low: No tax on Social Security or similar pension, 5% on dividends, 10% on non-EU capital gains. What you get: mountains, sea, 4 seasons, mellow people, rich traditions, an older way of life if you want it, good access to the rest of Europe.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks for the info!

[@viajandomundo421]

Can you get by with the locals in English only? Do you need German/French other language?

[@Stef-wz7rl]

@viajandomundo421 English speakers seem to do well enough in cities like Sofia and Plovdiv and in resort areas like Bansko. There are doctors, etc. who speak English, and it's pretty common among young people. However, even in those areas you'll have a fuller life if you learn at least some Bulgarian.

[@sweetsimpleslowlife2709]

We are currently visiting Sofia and I got a chance to explore the city and have some interaction with the locals. Beautiful landmarks and streets, the people seem to get more friendly the more you talk with them . I happen to be fluent in English and Russian so I understand some of the words similar to Bulgarian and get the gist , but definitely not enough to carry a full conversation. Some switch to English shortly after I tell them that it’s one of the languages I understand, but that’s rare. Overall, it’s a fascinating experience and I wouldn’t mind coming back to explore more of the country and culture.

[@sunmand6136]

If they charge 10% on non-eu capital gains. Then I think Portugal would be a much better option. With the NHR there are no taxes on cap gains for 10 years. But then Portugal is getting expensive with too many moving in.

[@carlosespinoza2453]

Thanks for including Peru . Learning spanish open the doors to several countries. Peru is asking $1K , but could be done for $700 in urban areas and Rural areas can be done for as low as $400 , I mean living in the countryside or any of the hundreds of towns in the Coast , Andes or Jungle.

[@alexcidjavillonar7973]

Peru 🇵🇪 mwah 😘 I like 👍 Lima Peru. I’m going to retire at Peru someday

[@jimmyglen]

I lived in lima and drove all over Peru - no thanks - lima is the pits and even Peruvians don’t want to go go back to Lima - the traffic and crime will do you in

[@jb-qi8fz]

Just a note on Bulgaria. I've driven through and around Bulgaria a number of times on my way to other destinations, most recently about 3 months ago. To be honest , I find Bulgaria on the bottom of the list of places I like to go. My wife calls it the Soviet Union as it has not progressed much since the Soviet days. The country is for the most part , dirty and run down and roads are simply awful to drive on. Interestingly, Romania, which borders Bulgaria, is fantastic. Up to date, clean, neat, very reasonably prices, and a joy to visit.

[@sweetsimpleslowlife2709]

Fascinating! We are currently in Sofia and while the center of the city is beautiful, I do understand what you mean. In June we visited Bucharest and my daughter loved it so much , she even said she would live there.

[@Sunshine-uz4cx]

Bulgaria is Soviet Union)) that’s why Russians goes there , buying properties and feel as home.. they feel no difference ..

[@GeorgePetrou-vz4gy]

​@@sweetsimpleslowlife2709Each year Bucharest is voted the ugliest EU capital.

[@castlequay2327]

Bulgarians look down on Albanians as being uncivilised

[@isabellaschopper8988]

Please don’t move to Europe Ami stay at home it’s Beter for all

[@renegodoy8406]

I enjoy your videos since your experience in Ecuador is very informative for people who for varied reasons want to move abroad mainly for the cost of living. I am retired and I bought a nice condo in Guatemala which my wife and I enjoy a great part of the year, I want to add something very important that this place (condo) will be very lonesome place and our activites will be limited if we did not speak Spanish. Most people worry about the crime (remember crime is everywhere), we are cautious and don't leave our common sense at home. One important advice if you have medicare think very carefully about moving to these low cost countries, in all honesty I can not compare the quality of average medical care in Guatemala to the ones in the US. There are very good hospitals in Guatemala and $1200 a month will not go very far at all. As a latino I can not leave out the common denominator of most of the countries: Political instability and corruption. Lets take Ecuador, in the last 5 years the country has become the corridor from Colombian, Peruvian and Mexican drug cartels to ship drugs to the biggest consumer market the US and Europe. The mayor of Manta was assassinated one presidential candidate and other candidate were also assassinated. Although I don't think that this violence will affect the expats living in Cuenca, I do think it will definitely affect the average Ecuadorian in their behavior and expectations. Thanks for sharing this space/

[@wmk6325]

You raise a good point about the cost of medical in these low cost countries. There is a lot of talk from people encouraging others to move overseas about the cost of visiting a doc. That is only a small piece. You also have to take into account what is the out of pocket costs of say you break a hip or need cancer surgery? Can you get into their government system? Is the government system any good? Some countries make it easy to buy private medical. Some don't. It is good to see what the local middle class does. If they don't use the government med, you probably should not plan on using it too.

[@siouxrose7766]

Thank you for stirring my sense of adventure. Life in the U.S is getting scary due to politics, heat waves/fires/floods, and a lot of uncertainty. You give me hope that I can start over for my likely last chapter.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

You can do it 🥳

[@christinabayma119]

Check the weather in the countries that Interest you as heat waves,fires, floods and other natural disasters happen outside the US too

[@freeshrugs63]

I knew you guys would give me the straight skinny with little fanfare. Very informative. Thank you.

[@chanavogel6098]

Great video, you two. Production is looking sharp and info is super helpful.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Glad you think so! Gracias!

[@kenswindle4860]

I was wondering about you guys. Good to see that you are safe.

[@slypup1]

Good video folks, I found it helpful. Also Amelia you are looking younger and it reflects on JP. Looking forward to your next video.

[@marytica123]

WE WERE DISAPPOINTED when we checked on Costa Rica's residency application requirements ! Having lived there during 2004-2009, we were shocked that their "improved" requirements were actually WORSE than during our tenure there. The most burdensome requirement is you have to secure HEALTH INSURANCE thru their "CAJA" - which is quite expensive, and does NOT cover treatments by private doctors outside of the "CAJA". Also, home prices are VERY high, and cost-of-living is just below the USA's.

[@celestial516]

I agree with what you are saying here

[@pathkris2984]

@@misterniceguy67 Is that 450 per person or a couple / family?

[@saintpreferred9223]

CR is full of gangs, drugs, and its not safe if you have money. Don't go there, in fact, LEAVE.

[@Blueskies7775]

@@saintpreferred9223you could say the same for parts of Mexico, Columbia, Panama, etc… Not all of Costa Rica is the same.

[@bettyb1581]

@@Blueskies7775 colombia not columbia

[@EnoughTimeTravel]

Concise & so helpful! Gracias!

[@petrobull2560]

So glad I found your channel. Thank you!👍

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Gracias 😊

[@JohnEllisLearningConsultant]

Amelia and JP, very helpful, thank you.

[@jimjohnston5092]

Good info. Thank you. And, JP, your Spanish accent is getting much better.

[@louis20122]

The most important factor is safety.

[@as-1982]

Yes, absolutely. Costa Rica and Guatemala are not good places to spend your retirement. There have been plenty of bad news coming from those countries for years. There are a lot of Guatemalans who tries to migrate to the US illegally in recent years because of the harsh conditions in their home country.

[@alrent2992]

​@@as-1982don't go to the ghetto! I'm fine here 10+ years. Peaceful paradise.

[@theodorearaujo971]

You guys are Great!

[@vickirio]

Great video packed with useful info!! Muchas gracias!!

[@francesfarmer736]

I missed this video….! I qualify for any of the retirement visas you named, yay! As always great video!

[@monicadzisiak7291]

Your both lookin great! THANK YOU!

[@user-mu8ff1hl4z]

Great video guys! Lots of options to consider. Muchas Gracias!

[@morgan97475]

Very helpful!👍

[@earlgreco8636]

Your information is very valuable. Your willingness to share your knowledge is much appreciated.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks!

[@donjohnsonsigns1]

Thank you so much guys for this valuable information

[@kevinbailey2338]

Thank you for this video. Good info. Also, my wife and I love your new hairdo Amelia.

[@christinestrider6406]

Very beneficial knowledge… Bulgaria interests me quite a bit. I could not figure out how to link to find out more though.

[@williamhayes8391]

Great video guys, thanks, stay safe.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thank you!

[@timisaac8121]

Really perfect video!!! I love your accents anyway and enjoy just hearing your words.... but you really delivered: Bulgaria!!!??? Who would have thunk it? Apparently not too many or I don't get out much: No video on this topic EVER brought up Bulgaria!! I have to admit, I know very little about the country- Would you consider, since it did make number one, and no other KZbinr even mentions it, making a vid JUST on Bulgaria? Keep up the great work. I'm happy to know you are safe and doing well.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thank you!

[@timisaac8121]

@@AmeliaAndJP YW!! You are such a cute and close couple!! Maybe it is those Chicago accents I find so enjoyable!! So--- Bulgaria video on the way!~??? hehehehe

[@williamfrost9910]

Didn't know about the Bulgarian pensioner d visa. Thanks!

[@Lisa-oy9ts]

Great video, really interesting info, thank you. Love you new hair Amelia!!! You look FABULOUS!!!

[@robertshannon4547]

Excellent information, well done 👍🏻, thank you.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Glad it was helpful!

[@LoisTheresa]

Thank you! I love you guys!

[@christinedailey9254]

I haven’t watched yet but your thumbnail is hilarious! 😂 can’t wait to watch this one. Great subject. 😊

[@christinestrider6406]

Just learning stuff… What do you say thumbnail? And how does one link to something offered below?

[@cindyk3076]

Interesting list, I was surprised by Bulgaria!

[@storytellingproductions9927]

Amelia & JP Thank you for the immense value your videos provide! Love your authenticity!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thank you!

[@dlwilliamson5644]

I agree!

[@robert-zg8or]

I'm living in Cambodia at this moment. I've been here for years, now why anyone would want citizenship eludes me . Upon arrival you can get a 30 day visa for about 30usd. During that 30 day period simply go to a tour guide and give your passport to them along with 295 usd and in less than a week you can get a 1 year multi entry/ exit visa that you can renew each year. Now each country has different rules with every other country, so what I just wrote applies to US citizens over 55. The only benefit for citizenship is that they are part of the Asiane pack, so many countries to visit without the standard visa hassle or expense, including ecuador ( yeah that one stunned me too). FYI, there are few English speakers here, so relax they do their best.

[@pathkris2984]

Cambodia taxes worldwide income of all residents, do you file taxes in Cambodia for your foreign income? Trying to see how you manage this, thanks for your inputs.

[@robert-zg8or]

@pathkris2984 Hello. No, US citizens do not have to file income tax in Cambodia. But I still do have to pay US taxes. I'm saying this from the perspective of a retired 67 year old US citizen . This may not be accurate for foreigners with different citizenship. I don't have any income from Cambodia, so on that, I believe you would have to pay taxes on any income made here.

[@robert-zg8or]

I just get the annual , multi entry / exit tourist visa. I know foreigners that have lived in Cambodia for over a decade and not 1 of them has ever paid Cambodia taxes.

[@pathkris2984]

@@robert-zg8or As per their law, taxation is by residency and not by citizenship. You become a resident automatically after staying there for more than 182 days in a year, regardless of which country you are from. And residents are subject to taxation on worldwide income even if they don't have any local Cambodian income. Looks like this is not followed by anyone as I found out from another thread as well. I am just concerned about the consequences if they took any action. I appreciate your input, have a great day.

[@robert-zg8or]

@pathkris2984 I never knew that. Thanks. Apparently they don't enforcement it.

[@Mikey-bg9zf]

Amelia and JP- Love your videos. Been following you for a couple years now. Question- Being that youre very well versed in expat'ing in Ecuador, do you have recommendations on individuals in your field but specific to other popular expat countries, i.e. Portugal, Spain, Mexico, etc? Youre very good at what you do. Just wondering if there are other "Amelias and JPs" on youtube outside of Ecuador? Thank you

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Check out Expats Everywhere for Portugal. There are several channels in Mexico. Not sure about Spain.

[@cherrydragon2024]

Wonderful information. Thank you.

[@SoftwareManiacLSM]

Nice video and synopsis.

[@celestial516]

I know this video is about affordable visa's but I have to say that the the crime in Costa Rica is getting worse. Lots of things happening that are not on the national news or any' gringo' news. We just ourselves , were victims of a home invasion, armed robbery. Tied up, face down at gunpoint, while the house was emptied, put stuff in our car and stole that too..not cool. and even with a simple life, it's very expensive. I can't really recommend it, anymore.

[@belle42]

I'm so sorry! What a very traumatic thing to have happen! I hope that you have a good support system there and will heal emotionally. Something like that is often hard to come back from.

[@celestial516]

@@belle42 thank you for the kind comment, it's much appreciated. I seemed to be okay after a few days, but who knows , definitely traumatic.

[@derbywinner6316]

Agreed. I lived in San Jose, very expensive

[@rickd6880]

Very informative…Thanks…

[@cocktailswithdavecwd280]

Colombia 9/16/2023 Social security or Pension amount for the pension visa is now $890 visa Lawyer information.

[@robertgillies9382]

I have lived in Panama for the past 24 years. A good choice I think. I am not sure of the present requirements. I became a citizen 10 years ago.

[@birdsinparadise3113]

Guatemala is an exceptional country. Even if you don't retire there, you should visit at least once. I lived there a couple decades ago. Just the one coup 😮😮

[@AmeliaAndJP]

We want to visit but we don't have a trip planned yet.

[@garydavisguatemala6185]

@@AmeliaAndJP reach out to me when you decide to go to Guatemala! i have a home in antigua & I will let you stay for free (just give me a shout out mentioning my place in your video!) I travelled for over 20 years in LATAM with my job & Ecuador was on my list (Cuenca specifically). But when you make it to Guatemala, Antigua specifically, you will see why I chose here:) and it's only a 2.5 hour flight to the USA for any emergency. I can send you a link of it offline (I don't want to self-promote on your channel:)

[@belle42]

I have an aquaintance in Guatemala. She says it can be pretty dangerous but she moved back to be close to family.

[@birdsinparadise3113]

@@garydavisguatemala6185 I used to live on 2nd avenida Norte. I don't have the house number memorized, but it used to be called Casa del Sol. Near las capuchinas, across the road if I remember correctly

[@Toobenator]

Just the one coup, eh? 😂😂😂

[@ibelieveinjesuschrist8911]

thank you!!

[@Traveler-po3oe]

I looked into Colombia, last year. Although a beautiful country, Colombia taxes your worldwide income if you are in the country 183 days per year. At least that's the information I was given last year, by an attorney that handles retirement visas in Colombia.

[@belle42]

I wonder if Columbia has the resources or the reciprocal relationship with the US to find and tax your worldwide income? I find that most of these countries the left hand doesn't know what the right hand is doing.

[@belle42]

@@Andy-vw7ok good information! Thanks!

[@pathkris2984]

@@Andy-vw7ok Thanks for this information. If there is a combined pension and capital gains/dividends from US, how does that work in 2024?

[@saintpreferred9223]

Unstable country, drugs, gangs, crime....

[@pathkris2984]

@@Andy-vw7ok Thank you for the clarification.

[@lindadorman2869]

Thanks for doing this video! I've been looking for a super low-cost country to make my home base while I still travel around Europe. Bulgaria might be a good fit and I'll have to look into it...

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Glad it is helpful!

[@Basman59]

While I respect your efforts always, many countries tax worldwide income and based on your criteria for example, Cambodia that’s 15%, Bulgaria 10%. Excluding those on the list and add to that those requiring deposits like Thailand, Philippines, those with crazy inflation Argentina who changed its income thresholds and Turkey the once lengthy list is dwindling. I won’t broach political instability or uncertainty like Ecuador cos it’s one of the few where I wouldn’t melt. Frankly, I can’t see paying tax on foreign income when we would be contributing so much already. The choices are getting slimmer by the year! Great work guys!

[@pathkris2984]

That's the same concern I have. Do you have a list you have narrowed it down to, after applying the tax filters? The ones that don't tax worldwide income?

[@luisfilipe534]

Yes... dont pau taxes. Locals have high salaries so they can pay for you

[@garyking4032]

South Africa's also a good option (Cape Town is stunning). The pension visa works by giving you a month for every 36,000ZAR (about $2k) you have in your pension pot.

[@stewartthomas970]

Thanks!

[@genes5937]

I'm moving to Chile as soon as I retire from the military - working towards the dream! Canada is not worth the cost anymore.

[@greencraig8570]

I am enjoying your channel. Could you tell me what you think are the 3 best cities/towns for expats in Ecuador? I speak Spanish and am familiar with the expat lifestyle.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Here’s a review of the best cities in Ecuador for expats: ameliaandjp.com/best-cities-to-live-in-ecuador-for-expats/

[@greencraig8570]

@@AmeliaAndJP Gracias! Muy amable!

[@greencraig8570]

@@AmeliaAndJP I have spent a lot of time looking at your videos. Ecuador looks very interesting. After I join your Patreon Id like to ask you a few more questions if I could. Thanks.

[@elvdell5582]

Something that is NEVER discussed, you always talk about people that retire early, BUT that also means it is usually self-funded as you can't us things like 401k or IRA until 55 and higher. So, if you have tons of money sitting in the bank, and basically pay yourself a stipend monthly, I'm curious to know about how these visas accept that.

[@michaelmcshane6280]

Hello Amelia and JP, Nice video. I am in Cambodia and I have the retirement visa. When you come to Cambodia, you must get the E visa or also known as the ordinary visa not the tourist visa. That is good for 30 days. Then you can apply for the 12 month visa for the retirement visa, which is good for 3, 6 or 12 months. There is no requirements other than your passport. Tourist agencies all around the country. If you go to Phnom Penh and go to immigration there at the capital it’s $180 if you do it through an agency like I did I am in Siem Reap, it cost me $290. Of course I did not have to go by bus or some other form of transportation to the capital and deal with that as immigration. It was all handled for me so to me it is a good value. I will repeat again as of the end of June when I got my visa, there was no income requirements and as far as I know that has not changed. So really, Cambodia is the easiest visa for retirees to get probably in the world. Also, the people are very friendly great and helpful. Very close to Thailand if you want to visit Thailand or Vietnam, Malaysia, and many other countries in Southeast Asia.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks for sharing the details! 👍

[@HR_8035_YEA]

Good info. Thanks for posting.

[@markwoods6684]

My exact experience in November 2023. It is the least expensive country I have ever visited. Cheaper than Ecuador when I visited 10 years ago.

[@cigar401]

@@markwoods6684 Yes, except for the cost of food Which is a little higher than neighboring countries such as Vietnam, Thailand and Lao. But none the less it is my favorite all of them. Will be retiring there in june of 2024.

[@PierrePlogoff]

Thank you.

[@dennispack4119]

Nice video 👍🏽 I once heard a statement that has stuck with me. A man was asked where he planned to live when he retired. He stated something like, "I don't think about where I'm going to 'live'. I prefer to think about where I'm going to visit next." Since many countries now give you at least a 90 day visa when you arrive, and you are allowed to do that at least once a year, 4 countries can be easily visited each year ... and many offer visa extensions if you want to stay longer. Of course, that means I might have to give up the ingrained "I need a house of my own and a place for all my 'stuff' " syndrome 😊 Also, since i don't know how to contact you outside of here ... a possible branch of your videos might be to include how to integrate into a culture. Most of your videos now are about how to migrate, but I remember the videos you made in Olon during the covid restrictions where you were heavily involved with the local community gardening, etc. I think this really helped you settle into the Ecuadorian culture. I see volunteering as a good way to give to a community and learn about and be accepted into a culture. The orphanage in Olon, for example ... or an eco-centre somewhere near Cotacachi (I think) where local students spend time and earn bus fare to high school in a neighbouring town. I'd just like to see more about how I can give, rather than just about what I can receive. 💕

[@belle42]

Travel is exciting and I don't value "stuff" as much any more. But I do like the sense that I have a place to call home waiting for me as well. Would be nice to have both!

[@danspencer4235]

@@belle42 That should be easy enough. I got rid of 99% of my stuff and lived a while in Nicaragua and then moved to Colombia. We currently have a 3-bedroom apartment with A/C, which is unusual here, but I could easily find a smaller, less luxurious place for $200 USD per month. If the building has decent locks and you put some kind of alarm system in your apartment, you could use that as a "home base" and travel wherever you like.

[@egjohnson7939]

Hello, thanks for the video. Question: Where are you seeing the age requirements for the discounts associated with the Panama pensionado visa? I'm 48, I have the pensionado visa, and I routinely receive the discounts.

[@jj.1412]

I got excited when I looked it up & there is no age restriction- but of course one needs to provide legal government documentation that you have a private pension- which I assume you have. Myself, being the same age, I regret not choosing a career that had a good pension in my country- like teaching. Or at least knowing to make investments early, learning a trade instead of paying bloated Uni tuition fees :(

[@craftcolors]

Love you two and all of your beautiful videos!! (please get rid of the popping sound with the Text 🙂)

[@johnrencher442]

Fantastic video….

[@DaBooster]

The lady looks 20 years younger without the grey hair. Well done

[@lseguy]

Great video as usual. (But Amelia…miss the grey/black hair…looked SO cool on you. You REALLY rocked that look)

[@belle42]

I thought it was very becoming as well! But this is probably closer to her original color and what she's used to.

[@diannehull9748]

Can you do something on the best, least restrictive, least expensive non-eu countries with good transportation and internet near europe please.

[@Neosan1982]

There is an error at 7:55 in this video. You state COP$1.160.000 is USD$900. That one million one hundred sixty thousand was the 2023 minimum wage, which was about USD$290. The minimum wage for 2024 is COP$1.300.000 (a 12% increase, which exceeds inflation in Colombia) which at today's exchange rate is USD$333.33, so the visa requirement of three times minimum wage for 2024 is now about $1000. That is still a good proposition as Colombia is a beautiful country with beautiful people (in cities and in towns). Smaller cites in the coffee growing area are safer than the three largest cities (Bogotá, Cali, and Medellín).

[@rrobles9453]

Amelia... You colored your hair again! 😲. Cool 💃

[@deecee9479]

One more question; does the “bank account deposit” need to be in place permanently or for a limited time?

[@fdm2155]

That probably varies. I'd expect you need to maintain a minimum balance ie have at least $1200 in the account at all times, not just an initial deposit of $1200

[@freedakaye6720]

Would love a video on the most affordable places to get second citizenship.

[@dovoso5685]

Bulgaria sounds good, Portugal sounds interesting. What about any other East European countries ? Poland ? Slovakia ? North Macedonia ? Montenegro ?

[@LoisTheresa]

Thank you! Love you guys!❤❤❤

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thank you!

[@noted1546]

I looked into a few countries not on this list. First Argentina with a lot to offer and very, very low income requirements.....30000 Argentinian Pesos...what with the inflation there does not come to much. Secondly Serbia with no retirement visa but temporary stay visa with opening a company/buying propery with no minimum requirement. Both countries are great, a lot to see and experience, not expensive at all, no taxes on outside income. Worth researching.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Argentina just increased the retiree visa income requirement to $1800/month.

[@GeorgePetrou-vz4gy]

Georgia has no visa requirements at all. Everybody gets a 365 day visa. The cost of living is very low.

[@raymondlowon7799]

Hi enjoy your videos immensely . Were planning to retire in Thailand . Retirement visa says i need to have B800000 in the bank or $2000.00 a month income . Are those numbers for individual or if my spouse comes, does it double . Thank you

[@kitty_s23456]

Hi. I have some expat friends in TH. To my knowledge, the income requirement for retirement visa is per person. So if you're a couple, then the amount doubles. That's unless your wife is a Thai citizen, then you can be eligible for a visa as a spouse. Some expats who are on retirement visa circumvent the income requirement by using an agency. The agency "lends" them the money. If you intend to retire in TH, I suggest that you go there first to try it and also visit neighboring countries.

[@markbernhardt6281]

All of these countries really should do what Thailand does. You need the monthly income OR 25,000 in a Thai bank.

[@jeffaardrup5051]

Getting back to safety, I think the assassination deserves a video.

[@TEEDUBBS0000]

Totally agree. The elephant in the room grows larger..

[@AmeliaAndJP]

We have a live stream later today. We don’t do news videos anymore.

[@DiscovertourshawaiiLLC]

Ecuador and panama use usd .( panama has 2 .tgeirs is tied to the dollar, ugh) Trying to stay away from then digiral control. Guessing they will have to submit?? Or not??

[@larrypicard8802]

Amelia is that a new do? You look great.

[@wolcottwu756]

I struggle to contemplate moving to places from which people en mass risk life and limb to escape from.

[@r-cdmx]

And yet, millions of Americans are enjoying life all over beautiful Mexico.

[@Ana183]

​@@r-cdmxMexico is phenomenal. I live in Illinois, and would risk everything to live in Mexico. I just received my permanent visa. The financial requirement was over $250,000. I was glad to produce my 12 months bank statements, in order to be qualified. I would risk life and limbs to get to the best country in the world. My opinion, of course. The United States of Mexico. I love and adore the Mexican people's culture, lifestyle, and humanity. Viva Mexico. 👀🙏🏿.

[@cigar401]

Well, you have the option of staying home.

[@ruqayyahcurtis7504]

@robertgillies9382 Those people are making @3$ per hour in places like Mexico and Guatemala. They can work at McDonald's and make 15$-20$ in the US. There are jobs in USA that degreed professional people won't take. So they come (legal or illegal).

[@Captain_Tiger]

Do monthly annuity payments for life count as pension for such schemes provided age matches as required?

[@JaySmith-pv2mw]

I'm trying to figure out how I can live in retirement on $3,000 a month here in America. This video gives me some alternatives.

[@piotrwojtowicz9299]

You can live in Canada for that money easy ,no need to travel far away !

[@markwysierski8903]

Maybe, maybe as a single person living in a car or some remote location? My mortgage payment is half local rent. I work overtime always and wife has a high paying job. Admittedly I have 2 teenagers but I don't have toys, or go out, or have car payments/repairs, or do retail therapy or do anything but look for a way out. We earn over 150,000 with NO savings and on the edge all the time. It's like a hamster wheel and groundhog day in one. Desperately looking for a way out though I love my country and location (Kelowna)

[@mj137jm]

You say the Peruvian visa is "indefinite". Do you mean that if you follow the rules it is permanent? If not, what do you mean. And thanks for all of the excellent videos you make.

[@nightking2478]

it is my dream to live outside of america I can't wait

[@KB3TLE]

It would be nice to know all the expenses for moving including visa fees and all other costs not mentioned surely adds up ? The hidden costs where we need this need that need another + 3 or 4 other needed things adding up to a lot of money ! + TRAVEL & 3 months rent/deposits after an expensive month in an air b&b while looking for a more permanent place ? If unfurnished more $ for essentials while living out of a suitcase ? Several thousands perhaps just to try & settle somewhere cheap ? --- I see a lot of money needed for any such adventure.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Here’s an article about the cost of moving to Ecuador. Other countries will have similar costs. ameliaandjp.com/cost-of-moving-to-ecuador/

[@AugieBenDougie-wk9pr]

What if you don't have a friend or family member to use as a physical address in the US as a domicile to keep a driver license and bank accounts? I have heard that Virtual mailboxes with a physical address will not work and banks to not accept and you cannot use this address on a state driver license. Fulltime RVers have this same issue.

[@chasca23]

You have to get a permanent PO Box for some things, and use the actual street Address as your physical Address. My bank accepted that a while back. DL will Not Work that way, however.

[@jtns2845]

@@chasca23 not true. im good with a firm in fl that caters to rv, live aboard boat, etc folks. just do an internet search.

[@Bravo21]

Will be requiring this year and have been looking at the Philippines but also Argentina... I thought Argentina's income requirement was very low.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

They just raised the retirement visa income requirement to $1800/mo.

[@albertomelendez9848]

If you google 2023 Nicaragua retirement visa it says you need AT LEAST $600/month income to be eligible

[@EvralTatum-Mcfield-ov2mi]

Yes, is less than a 1000 dollars a month, equally, my country, Honduras is $1000 a month!

[@viajandomundo421]

Nicaragua is great. Love Granada. San Juan del Sur is awesome... Downside? The Ortegas.

[@albertomelendez9848]

@@viajandomundo421 if you don’t mess with them they won’t mess with you dude. It’s that simple

[@viajandomundo421]

@albertomelendez9848 True.... maybe... The government just confiscated the Jesuit run Catholic University Properties. One does not retire in a country to meddle in local politics... and yet can't be completely oblivious to the local dictator abuses because it is not good for local harmony. IMHO.

[@albertomelendez9848]

@@EvralTatum-Mcfield-ov2mi Honduras is more expensive than Nicaragua. And more violent too 😲😲😲

[@taterkaze9428]

Got a surprise at #1. Definitely on my list.

[@BK-tx2vw]

Love your new hair color Amelia! You guys are fun to watch, thank you both! JP your head looks great! LOL

[@blsomp2543]

Costa Rica is too expensive. I'll pick Colombia, 2nd choice Peru. Thanks!

[@vijerodelmundo]

From what source did you get the information about Nicaragua?

[@AmeliaAndJP]

An immigration attorney. You can google it.

[@deanlewis8083]

I'm almost 57. grew up as Air Force brat with moms side family in germany , and now retired Navy. I'd love to leave the US and try living abroad (i miss the travel) but my only second language is german and I doubt I'll ever convince the wife. oh well

[@carlosespinoza2453]

In Peru try a bilingual / touristic city as Cusco , or the region in Oxapampa Pozuzo. Some people still speaks german over there

[@birdsinparadise3113]

You don't need to speak the language before you go, it helps, but with translation features and tour guide types, you can get there. Not everyone does a complete move. I meet a lot here in Ecuadors coast who are only here for three to six months. Just the tourist visa plus extension if they stay longer. There are several countries with 90 days on arrival. The cost of travel can be offset by the lower costs once in the country Yes I forgot there are south American countries with people who left Germany .

[@jackdeniston59]

Mate, English is fine around the world. Just look for someone under 30. And cash. Travel without the wife.

[@michealjoseph9943]

A lot of Germans have moved and are still moving to Paraguay if you’re interested. Sounds like a great country in many ways, except that there are no higher elevation cities with year round temperate climates like there are in many other LATAM countries.

[@taunyawren8020]

Awesome thanks. I seriously would like to know how to be able to live in England, Scotland, France or Ireland. I’ve seen some things about being allowed to go for 6 months but then what? It also says that after 5 years you can apply to stay. I’m wondering how to be from the 6 months to 5 years? Well in the UK. My husband and I are early retirees in our 50’s. We have social security and his military disability retirement. We could buy a house but apparently they don’t do loans in France I’ve heard. Not sure about England. There use to be a retirement program for England but it was dissolved. Not sure if it will come back? Not sure if Scotland is the same as England? Ireland use to be a option but now we wouldn’t fit the investment requirements. France looks doable but difficult, and we don’t speak French. I do speak Spanish, perhaps Spain? I’ve heard Spain use to be a good option. But I’d rather be in France or England. Any help?

[@AmeliaAndJP]

I’m trying to convince Amelia to spend next summer in England and Ireland. We’ll know more if we do 👍

[@taunyawren8020]

@@AmeliaAndJP Oh great. It’s so confusing. Looks like if you work or go to school or have a relative non of which apply for us. And I have to go back like 5-7 generations to find relatives even though it’s like 94% my dna. Back when I was watching how to be in England. At one point I thought I could rent or buy a house and it seemed like you just have to leave every 6 months to get your passport stamped and then start again. And you do this for 5 years then you can apply for a citizenship. But I am not comfortable moving across the world with my pets and stuff if it’s not for sure. What if I’m not allowed back in? What about my pets, belongings, and potentially a mortgage? I don’t think there’s any easy answers but let me know if you get any information.

[@michealjoseph9943]

I am also wanting to move to Ireland or possibly the UK which includes England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. I just wrote to the Conselet in Ireland this morning. I have ancestry from Ireland and a potential business start up plan. I hope you can find a way for this to work for you! My backup alternatives would be Cuenca Ecuador or possibly Mexico, but I’d rather have my best option, Ireland.

[@taunyawren8020]

@@michealjoseph9943 Well that’s great. Let us know how it works.

[@wa7john]

So i only heard 1 country that said could not use dividends so do the others that were mentioned allow dividend income? Does Ecuador? Thanks

[@AmeliaAndJP]

That was about the Peru Rentista visa, which functions more like a retirement visa than a passive income visa. Most countries require a pension or social security check with consistent monthly payments to qualify for a retirement visa, including Ecuador. You might want to look into the Portugal D7 Passive Income visa.

[@wa7john]

@AmeliaAndJP thanks. I had briefly looked at the investment visa but still trying to figure some things out. Your info has been very helpful. Keep up the good work.

[@LouisHansell]

Retirees have a greater need for healthcare than the general population. What is the healthcare status in these countries?

[@AmeliaAndJP]

It varies. You can use this list to do some research.

[@Ahuntsicspotter]

Bulgaria 🇧🇬 is about to join the Shengen zone.

[@ryszardsawicki5353]

You did not mention the average temperature in Asuncion... or Managua... or Panama...

[@hamdanshaikh9067]

If someone get work permit of euproue it mean trc or I have to apply for trc pls give me reply thanking you

[@darkmattersproject2951]

Good information. I am a little surprised. You left off the cheapest and best countries. Was that on purpose?

[@AmeliaAndJP]

This video isn’t about the lowest cost of living. It’s about visas with the lowest income requirements and no large bank deposit.

[@darkmattersproject2951]

@@AmeliaAndJP Argentina & Portugal are lower then what you posted

[@as-1982]

@@darkmattersproject2951 I don't know about Argentina, but you need to put 10 thousand euros (or dollars, I forget which one) in the local bank in Portugal.

[@darkmattersproject2951]

@@as-1982 negative

[@people60plus]

That's really afffordable

[@geoff1971]

I'm assuming all figures are in US dollars.