Chile
Chile’s four-season climate is perfect for wine production and for exploring the country’s miles of coastline and beautiful mountain in your retirement. City lovers will enjoy the diverse and modern Santiago, while those looking for more of a relaxed scene might enjoy the shores of La Serena or Valparaiso. You could retire in Chile on around $1,500 a month, which would be easy to cover if you’re getting Social Security or a pension. Chile has cheaper groceries – especially fresh produce. A nice three-course meal for two can cost around $40-45, and a one-bedroom apartment rent for around $400 outside of Santiago or under $300 in the outskirts of Valparaiso.
How to retire in Chile
If you’re interested in retiring in Chile, you need to enter the country on a regular tourist visa first, and then apply to upgrade to a retirement or income visa while you’re already there. Once you’re approved for a temporary visa, you’ll need to apply for a Rol Único Tributario (RUT) number which is similar to a Social Security number. This ID number is needed to open a bank account, sign up for phone and internet services, and more. While the government doesn’t specify an income requirement, you’ll typically need an income of at least $1,000 per person to get by in the first year or two as you settle in. To get permanent residency, you’d need to live in Chile for 180 days per year.