10 BEST Pensioner Visas (w/ LOW Income Requirements)

[@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

[@Patrick_Ross]

@@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.

[@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

[@Мухамадов1]

USA is one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

[@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.

[@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

[@rachelnavarro2897]

Just like Cuba, very sad.

[@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

[@jimmy999-z2j]

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

[@luciferjohnson8495]

Countries in south America are mostly poor. Learning Spanish yea it will help but it gives no opportunity. No jobs. No business Basically these visas are for people who are from rich countries and want to retire on there pensions

[@kashtellstruecrimes]

@@carlosespinoza2453 isnt the pension requirement fixed ? How can it be done in 400 ? Can you please guide?

[@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.

[@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.

[@MrsSheffield]

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

[@bettyb1581]

@@MrsSheffield colombia not columbia

[@freeshrugs63]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@kenswindle4860]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@Neosan1982]

LOL! Colombia has a health care system ranked above USA and Canada. Male life expectancy in Colombia exceeds USA. But then Colombia does not have millions of guns in private hands or hundreds of mass shootings a year in elementary schools, churches, movie theaters, music concerts, box stores, etc. like the USA does.@@saintpreferred9223

[@davidkyle2073]

Realize that Colombia does not have a taxation treaty with USA so you will pay double taxes for same income. Research it.

[@storytellingproductions9927]

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

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thank you!

[@dlwilliamson5644]

I agree!

[@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.

[@artees]

Thank you Michael. Very useful info there

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@lseguy]

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

[@wolcottwu756]

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

[@NewYorkerinLondon7]

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

[@Ana183]

​@@NewYorkerinLondon7Mexico 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).

[@lynetterosario5697]

Great video! Listen, I just watched another video that said the income requirement for Bulgaria is $1.300?? You guys said $400, I like yours better. I need to find out.

[@petrobull2560]

Thanks!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Muchas gracias! 🥳

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@stewartthomas970]

Thanks!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Just seeing this now. Thanks! 🥳

[@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:)

[@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? 😂😂😂

[@birdsinparadise3113]

@@Toobenator only there for a year tho 😂😆

[@rrobles9453]

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

[@earlgreco8636]

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

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks!

[@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)

[@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.

[@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

[@DaBooster]

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

[@kevinbailey2338]

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

[@williamfrost9910]

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

[@EnoughTimeTravel]

Concise & so helpful! Gracias!

[@francesfarmer736]

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

[@visevich]

I LOVE your videos, great and concise information. MANY THANKS!

[@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 😲😲😲

[@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.

[@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!

[@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).

[@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

[@jimjohnston5092]

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

[@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. 💕

[@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.

[@JohnEllisLearningConsultant]

Amelia and JP, very helpful, thank you.

[@donjohnsonsigns1]

Thank you so much guys for this valuable information

[@winyoutube]

for Venezuela you need 1200 US$ / month to get the Retirement Visa

[@devildoge9623]

Why TF would anyone want to retire in Venezuela right now?

[@winyoutube]

@@devildoge9623 The Venezuela dictatorial system is very similar to Nicaragua and Nicaragua is in the list of this video. Venezuela is a beautiful country you almost pay nothing for electricity gas water and the home renting is the very very cheap. If you are trying to save money Venezuela is the cheapest country to live in latin america

[@fernandoherranz4095]

I would not recommend Venezuela. There’s a huge refugee crisis throughout the Americas and a many of them are Venezuelan. They are leaving en masse and going to Colombia, Ecuador, Chile, etc. Due to the terrible economic situation for most people there.

[@Ana183]

​@@devildoge9623wf would anyone want to live in America right now? Americans ignorance is painful. Everything is relative 👀🙄

[@Toobenator]

I lived in Venezuela years ago and can attest to the fact that it’s a beautiful country, with beaches, jungles, deserts and more. The food is delicious, the music is great, it has a rich cultural heritage, the people are friendly, and the dictatorial government is no worse than that of Nicaragua, which is on this list. I cherish the friends I made there, and I keep in touch. That said, I would not go to Venezuela now for the same reason I would not go to Nicaragua. You will save money, but you will feel the effects of living under a corrupt and incompetent dictatorship in your daily life. You will feel it during power outages, when you go to the supermarket, if you have any contact with the government of police, or if you get ill. Is it worth it? Only you can decide, but go with your eyes open.

[@petrobull2560]

So glad I found your channel. Thank you!👍

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Gracias 😊

[@robertshannon4547]

Excellent information, well done 👍🏻, thank you.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Glad it was helpful!

[@williamhayes8391]

Great video guys, thanks, stay safe.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thank you!

[@GeorgePetrou-vz4gy]

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

[@adamstheguy1619]

What about Health Insurance in all these countries? #1 worry for an expat..

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Most private insurance is incredibly affordable compared to the US. Or free if you go on the public plan.

[@Jan-fx2ny]

I'm a Canadian woman semi-retired. I cannot afford to live in Canada now, also very little housing and 1 in 4 have no physician. Our food is 350 a month per person. I am considering moving to a new country.

[@chanavogel6098]

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

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Glad you think so! Gracias!

[@vickirio]

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

[@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?

[@dcooner5969]

Bravo .. great vid

[@benguenther1162]

I see you have been traveling alot lately. How do you deal with the 2FA when moving money to the country you are staying in? Thanks so much for your videos, I find them both informative and helpful.

[@cachecow]

Can you do another "Cheap countries to retire" but with countries that require a "small" bank deposit ?

[@artees]

Grreeat content n very helpful 🎉 thank you 🙏

[@christinestrider6406]

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

[@mariacarmen-xn4cw]

There was political assassinations in Ecuador. There are shootouts in the streets with different gangs. Also there is terrorism as criminals are now using car bombs. Home theft is also a big thing in Ecuador, pocket robberies I also a thing.

[@birdsinparadise3113]

There was the after math of a civil war, frequent bus robberies or stopping vehicles en route to rob them, and an actual coup in Guatemala when I lived there around 1990. Meanwhile the alleged expat friendly Costa Rica had muggings and home robberies frequently at the same time. Every place has something yet we survive. The mass shooters in USA are already well documented and a great reason to leave it

[@Ana183]

They maybe mimicking the United States. The United States is a dangerous country to live Maybe the state department should tell visitors to enter the United States at your own risk. We live in a gun culture in America, Americans are scared of people's races, and their neighbors. Please, give me a break. I am an American.

[@daisyapontehavenmemoriestr8552]

Exactly

[@welintomgabriel5546]

Better than bringing your kid to school and get shoot in 🇺🇸,Ecuador is great

[@MariaPerez-fj9cl]

That's not new news.

[@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.

[@NoGoingBack2024]

Wonderful information. Thank you.

[@cocktailswithdavecwd280]

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

[@markbernhardt6281]

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

[@theodorearaujo971]

You guys are Great!

[@dovoso5685]

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

[@cindyk3076]

Interesting list, I was surprised by Bulgaria!

[@morgan97475]

Very helpful!👍

[@Lisa-oy9ts]

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

[@monicadzisiak7291]

Your both lookin great! THANK YOU!

[@TheRealRaygor]

I didn't know that about Bulgaria, I was planning on getting a visa through my Bulgarian wife when we hopefully retire there.

[@SoftwareManiacLSM]

Nice video and synopsis.

[@LoisTheresa]

Thank you! I love you guys!

[@rickd6880]

Very informative…Thanks…

[@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 :(

[@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.

[@dfsdfdsfdsffsdfsdfds3313]

Lived in Asuncion as a diplomat. HOrrible time there, horrible weather, people are strange and the summers are insufferable. Almost no homes with central air. Highly discourage anyone from going there.

[@kevinjoseph517]

never heard of it..what nation

[@chasca23]

Even the desperate Argentinians won't immigrate there. Why not Uruguay, a marvelous country, right next door.

[@egjohnson7939]

​@@kevinjoseph517😅

[@blsomp2543]

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

[@rainerweishaupl1103]

best advice. Thanks. I am stuck in Bali and prices and immigration are trying to get retired expats out

[@craftcolors]

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

[@freedakaye6720]

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

[@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

[@johnrencher442]

Fantastic video….

[@donfighter5]

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

[@grahamthompson2594]

I have been in Cambodia since 2019. No one asked for anything other than a valid passport. I use a travel agent who sends my passport to the visa office.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Great! Thanks for sharing 👍

[@rainerweishaupl1103]

That is good to know. Thanks! I can't seem to get my Birth certificate because I was born in Canada but they require you live there to get a new B-certifcate and have apostille from that. So my choices are limited because they require more than a passport

[@grahamthompson2594]

@@rainerweishaupl1103 only if you go to the visa office in Phnom Penh. The travel/visa agents don't ask for birth certificate.

[@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.

[@akimaki127]

i wish you had mentioned the income source for all the countries. Some people may have early retirement and their income source may be their savings.

[@paelementally9016]

There has been some recent negative news stories on political and criminal issues. Do these concern you of have they had any impact on you?

[@jennib9953]

There are not any lol...just kidding but probably very few

[@chrisj8764]

You seem to be diversifying your videos from Ecuador, given the recent violence there, and looking for a new home maybe?

[@RandomJane104]

Who has pensions these days? Do withdrawals from IRA or 401K count or do you have to be drawing Social Security?

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Most require social security or a pension. Portugal is more flexible.

[@BureaucracyWorld]

Thailand 🇹🇭 is the best. Low cost of living. Good low cost medical care. Beautiful beaches. Top tourist destinations Krabi, Phuket, HuaHin, ChiangMai, Bangkok. Fee, no visa for 60 days then Retirement visa. Good low cost housing. Very safe country, it's Travel hub for Asia.

[@drholidayinn5810]

I've found several websites that indicate no age requirement for the bulgarian retirement visa. Could you plz show us where you got this age requirement?

[@Amanda_downunder]

Thank you.. I wish to retire away from Australia in about 5 or 6 yrs time .. I'll need low cost. 😊

[@PierrePlogoff]

Thank you.

[@rickymead5282]

This is awesome

[@CFMarinaro]

Does you include the Socoal Security check as income or “pension” income as you say?

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Social Security is considered income.

[@J0HN_3_16]

How about citizenship?

[@Captain_Tiger]

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

[@tidalcreeku2b]

Countries requiring pensions be deposited in a bank in that country -- would this include Social Security check?