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Also thinking of moving to Ecuador

9 years ago
Hello everyone, I am new to the site. I'm a UK citizen and have been living on an island in Thailand for the best part of a decade running a bar/hostel and djing.
I have grown weary of the racism against the farang here and the ridiculous and archaic visa rules and laws.
I have heard good things and a number of island residents already have land and businesses there. (Canoa)
I am well used to living abroad and all the unpleasantries that can occur in other peoples countries.
Has anyone else also lived in Thailand that can give a comparison?

What are the visa regulations like in Ecuador? They can't be any worse than Thailand (border runs every 90 days even with a legitimate business visa and work permit).
How much does a business visa cost? Do you need to start a company to obtain one? How much is tax?

I'm also a skilled arborist, is there any ban against foreign workers doing certain trades like in Thailand?

The police also victimize the local expat community here, is this something that is common there?

I won't be arriving a broke backpacker, I will be able to prove my funds etc. Would $30k USD for example be enough to buy land and build a house out in the countryside?
I am used to living in pretty meagre conditions in Thailand and living a pretty basic lifestyle so a fancy house is not important. We plan to grow most of our food.

I'm also used to earning peanuts here in Thailand so I don't have high expectations to income.

If for example one opened a bar and it became a successful night spot would this then be a liable target for local mafia/police to extort?

Is a UK drivers license acceptable or will I have to pass a local test?

Any information/advice will be greatly appreciated :)

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