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Moving to Venezuela | Expat Exchange
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Caracas, Venezuala

Moving to Venezuela

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on May 09, 2024

Summary: Expats and digital nomads move to Venezuela for its low cost of living, warm climate, and vibrant culture. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Venezuela are Caracas, Maracaibo, and Valencia. People looking for a place to live in Venezuela can search online for rental listings, contact real estate agents, or look for postings on expat forums. Additionally, many expats and digital nomads find housing through word of mouth from other expats and digital nomads already living in the country.

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What do I need to know before moving to Venezuela?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Venezuela, they said:

"My advice is to be patient. Even though there is an abundance of apartments out there, finding the right one for you takes time. There are huge variations in building maintenance, security, and amenities. It's best to come here with the expectation that it might take 3 months to find a permanent place," said one expat in Caracas.

"Venezuela is a country with a rich culture and history, but it is also a country with a complex political and economic situation. Expats should be aware of the current situation in the country and the potential risks associated with living there. It is important to research the local laws and regulations, as well as the safety and security situation in the area. Expats should also be aware of the cost of living in Venezuela, as it is significantly higher than in many other countries. Additionally, expats should be prepared to learn Spanish, as it is the official language of the country. Finally, expats should be aware of the visa requirements for entering and staying in Venezuela," said one expat who made the move to Venezuela.

"Always prefer your common sense over the realtors opinion. Try to look at houses with a local to get their opinion. ALWAYS choose houses with Air Conditioning, it tends to get very hot. (115 F)," explained one expat living in Maracaibo, Venezuela.

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How do I find a place to live in Venezuela?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"My family and I chose a HUGE house in the La Virginia neighborhood. The rent is expensive, but we spent nearly three months living in a hotel before finding anything we liked," remarked one expat who made the move to Maracaibo.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Venezuela?

"Expat homes and apartments in Venezuela tend to be modern and comfortable, with air conditioning, internet access, and other amenities. Many expats choose to live in gated communities, which offer a greater sense of security and privacy. Expat homes and apartments often come with a variety of amenities, such as swimming pools, gyms, and other recreational facilities. Expats also have access to a wide range of international restaurants, shops, and other services," replied a member in Venezuela.

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What is the average cost of housing in Venezuela?

If you are thinking about moving to Venezuela, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"In comparison to South Florida, housing prices are much more expensive. There are expats who pay 3,000 Euro for a 3 bedroom, two bathroom apartment. I would say the average cost for a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment is about $1,200," said one expat in Caracas.

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Should I buy or rent a home in Venezuela?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Venezuela, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Venezuela can be a great investment, as the country has a strong economy and real estate market. However, it is important to consider the current political and economic situation in the country before making a decision. Renting a home in Venezuela may be a more cost-effective option, as it allows you to avoid the costs associated with buying a home, such as closing costs, taxes, and maintenance. Additionally, renting a home can provide more flexibility, as you can move to a different location if needed. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Venezuela should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," said one expat in Venezuela.

What should I pack when moving to Venezuela?

We asked people living in Venezuela to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Venezuela, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Bring clothing that is lightweight and breathable, as well as items that will protect you from the sun. It is also important to bring items that will help you stay cool, such as a fan or air conditioning unit. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring items that will help you stay connected to your home country, such as a laptop or smartphone. Finally, it is important to bring any necessary medications and medical supplies," said one expat who made the move to Venezuela.

"I wish I brought my car, because cars are very expensive here. I wish I had left home all my winter clothes. Everything is HOT here," explained one expat living in Maracaibo, Venezuela.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Venezuela?

We asked people in Venezuela if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"Just your 'getting to know the language' screw-ups, but everyone I encountered was very undersatnding and helpful," said one expat who made the move to Porlamar.

"It is important to be aware of cultural norms when visiting Venezuela. It is considered rude to be late for appointments or social engagements, so it is important to be punctual. It is also important to dress modestly and conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites. It is also important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to avoid making negative comments about the country or its people. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking English or any other foreign language in public. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local currency and to avoid using US dollars or other foreign currencies," explained one expat living in Venezuela.

Why do people move to Venezuela?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Venezuela, they responded:

"Venezuela is an attractive destination for expats due to its diverse culture, vibrant cities, and stunning natural beauty. The country is home to a wide variety of climates, from the tropical Caribbean coast to the Andean highlands, making it a great place to explore and experience different cultures. Additionally, Venezuela has a low cost of living, making it an ideal place for expats to live and work. The country also offers a wide range of job opportunities, from oil and gas to tourism and hospitality. Finally, Venezuela is known for its friendly people and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to settle down and start a new life," remarked one expat in Venezuela.

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How are healthcare services Venezuela?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Venezuela, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Venezuela are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens. However, the quality of public healthcare is often inadequate due to a lack of resources and infrastructure. Foreign residents do not have access to the public healthcare system, but they can use private healthcare services. Expats in Venezuela typically use private healthcare services, as they are more reliable and offer better quality care," replied one expat when asked about moving to Venezuela.

What are medical services in Venezuela like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Venezuela, they replied:

"Medical services in Venezuela have been severely impacted by the country's economic crisis. Many hospitals lack basic medical supplies and equipment, and there is a shortage of qualified medical personnel. Additionally, the cost of medical care is often too expensive for many Venezuelans, making it difficult for them to access the care they need. Despite these challenges, the Venezuelan government has made efforts to improve access to healthcare, including providing free medical services to those in need," wrote one expat living in Venezuela.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Caracas, Venezuala
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