Expat Community > Ecuador

UnclePa
Joined 2018
Posts: 6

Considering Ecuador

6 years ago

Greetings! After spending 14+ years in sub-Saharan Africa and returning to the States I realize that I really, really liked it better over there. Most Americans can't understand that, but I'm sure there are a few here that do. Unfortunately, the countries we were in were very restrictive on what we could do regarding owning property, it was practically impossible to get permanent residency, and I found I have a bit of a mental block when it comes to Bantu languages. I know very little Spanish but at least there are enough similarities that I have some idea of what is being said. So, we are seriously considering Central or South America and Ecuador is now at the top of my short list of places to settle after starting in #5. I'm seriously considering a recon trip in about 3 to 6 months from now to check it out. I have a few questions I'm hoping someone can help with.

1. If we do decide to move there, it looks like the Pensioner Visa may be possible. Although I'm not quite old enough for that yet, I do receive more than the required amount in royalties, but they come from a small family business and can vary a bit from month to month although usually increasing. Does anyone know if that might still qualify?

2. Should that fail, can anyone verify whether the old, "1) Get 90 day visa, 2) After 90 days apply for extension, 3) after 180 days, leave for 3 days, 4) repeat" works in Ecuador? I've heard some claim they do that but according to the government web site, it is 90 days in a year, max.

3. As for my recon visit, I'm leaning toward the Otavalo/Cotacachi area. What would be the best way to get there from the Quito airport for one who knows very little Spanish?

4. Most importantly, is there a good Stout available in Ecuador? :-)

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SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

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Expat Community > Ecuador

Considering Ecuador

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