Uruguay is known for its welcoming policy towards expats and retirees, offering a straightforward process for obtaining residency. The most popular visas for expats are the Rentista Visa, for individuals with a steady income from outside Uruguay, and the Pensionado Visa, for retirees with a pension. Digital nomads often opt for Uruguay’s Temporary Residence Visa, which allows them to live in the country for up to two years, with the possibility of extension or applying for permanent residency. To begin the residency visa process in Uruguay, expats must first enter the country on a tourist visa. Once in Uruguay, the individual must apply for residency through the Dirección Nacional de Migración (National Migration Directorate). The application requires various documents, including a birth certificate, proof of income, and a certificate of good conduct from the applicant's country of origin. All documents from abroad must be apostilled or legalized and translated into Spanish. The Rentista Visa requires proof of a monthly income of at least USD 1,500 from a stable source, such as investments, properties, or businesses outside of Uruguay. The Pensionado Visa, on the other hand, requires proof of receiving a pension, with a minimum amount that is periodically adjusted for inflation. Once the application is submitted, the expat must undergo a health check in Uruguay. After the health check and submission of all required documents, the expat will receive a temporary resident ID, known as a cédula, which allows them to live and work legally in Uruguay while their residency application is being processed. The process is generally considered easy compared to other countries, especially for those from the Mercosur countries, who benefit from a simplified process. However, it can take several months to a year for the residency to be approved. Once approved, the expat can apply for permanent residency, which can be granted after two years of temporary residency. Permanent residents are eligible to apply for Uruguayan citizenship after five years of residence in the country.