Ecuador
North American retirees have become very fond of Ecuador thanks to its temperate climate and gorgeous landscape of sandy beaches and mountains, metropolitan cities, and the famous Galapagos Islands. The U.S. dollar is used as the official currency, and seniors 65 and older qualify for half-price public and private transportation services. Not to mention discounts on utilities, entertainment, and even flights. Ecuador also has one of the most peaceful political climates in South America. In central Quito, a one-bedroom apartment could cost about $430 a month. To top it off, Ecuador also offers high-quality private health care options.
How to retire in Ecuador
Seeing as visitors can only stay in the country for 90 days, it’s a good idea to apply for the country’s 9-I pensioner visa at an Ecuadorian consulate in the U.S. The visa requires proof that you’ll have a monthly pension income of $800 or more. Your social security check can qualify as proof of income. The whole process costs $500 plus $50 for an application fee. Once you get accepted, you need to sign up for public or private health insurance. Another option is to buy real estate costing $25,000 or more (plus $500 per dependent) under the 9-II visa for investors in real estate and securities.