Planning To Retire In Ecuador: Here Are Some Things You Should Know
Posted on: 10 March 2015
Moving out of the country is a trend in the senior community, but which one offers the most for retirees? At the top of the list, according to Forbes, are mostly countries in Central and South America, including number one Ecuador. What is it about this little nation, bordered on one side by Colombia and on the other the Pacific Ocean, that attracts seniors? Low cost of living and strong real estate values are what brings them in. If you are considering retiring in Ecuador, there are a few things you should know.
How to Apply for a Visa?
You have a couple options when it comes to establishing residence in Ecuador, explains International Living. With a tourist entry, or T-3 tourist stamp, you can stay in the country for up to 90 days. This will give you a chance to get the lay of the land and decide if this is really the right choice before you contact a custom relocation service.
After the 90 days are up, you must apply for a visa.
- 12-IX Visa – This continues your status as a tourist and allows you to stay in Ecuador for up to 180 days a year. It is the first step to obtaining permanent residency in the country.
- Pensioner Visa – This visa is designed with retirees in mind, specifically ones living on a pension. Your income must come from a stable source and must be at least 800 dollars a month.
- Work Visa – This is available only if you intend to work in the country, even if it is just part-time. You must have a job with an Ecuadorian company or an indefinite work contract to qualify.
There are also visas for those looking to invest in real estate, those with a professional degree or anyone dependant on a spouse or relative. All visas are available via the Ecuador consulate in your home country.
Planning your Move
International moving requires the special planning available from a custom relocation service. The moving company will advise you on regulations for taking your personal property into Ecuador, including how to take advantage of the country's tax-free shipping policy. The tax-free option is only available once you get a residency visa, so your first step will be to store some of your property to move later.
It is going to take time to get ready for the move, so start packing at least three months in advance. Keep in mind that customs will require you to itemize everything in detail. Custom relocation services will have the documentation you need for customs, so get that before you start and fill out forms as you go.
What Not to Bring
Liquidate as much as possible. Things to avoid bringing include:
- Sundries
- Furniture unless it is an heirloom
- Winter clothing
This is stuff you won't need or that is readily available from Ecuador stores.
What You Should Pack
Focus instead on things that are tough to find in Ecuador.
- Good quality lamps
- Kitchen gadgets
- Pots and pans
- Brand name clothing like Gucci or Ralph Lauren
- Staple spices
- English literature
- Videos
It may be difficult to find quality electronics in Ecuador, too, according to Pro-Ecuador.com. What they do offer is priced as much as 30 percent higher than goods in the U.S. A custom relocation service will be able to pack them safely for the transfer and help get them through customs.
Planning your move will probably be the hardest part about relocating to Ecuador. Take the time to find a custom relocation service with experience in dealing with Ecuadorian customs, so things go smoother. You can start your search by contacting a moving company like Humboldt Storage & Moving Company.
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