Looking for a place to relocate? Let’s consider two Latin American countries, Uruguay and Paraguay. If we look at the rest of the world, it will be clear that these are the destinations where you will find peace and quiet. Both countries offer attractive relocation programs, and you will not have to go through complicated procedures or invest a lot of money to qualify. Uruguay and Paraguay are self-sufficient when it comes to natural resources, and they are located outside any conflict zones. If you want to know more, you can visit a portal to find detailed information for prospective citizens of Paraguay and Uruguay and get free professional assistance.
How to Acquire Citizenship in Paraguay
The immigration program offered by Paraguay is quite transparent and does not set exorbitant demands. Here are the two ways of obtaining legal residence (and then citizenship) in Paraguay:
- Receiving a Cedula (a national identification document).
- Using the SUACE program.
As for Cedula, this is an easy way as you will only need to prove that you intend to do one of the following things:
- Work in Paraguay in your area of specialization
- Set up a company in Paraguay
- Relocate to the country as a financially independent person who has enough money to live and will not be a burden to the state budget.
If you are approved, you will get a two-year residence permit. However, you are not required to live in the country during this period of time to keep the document valid. Keep in mind, though, that you should pay frequent visits to Paraguay or spend a considerable share of time there in these two years if you intend to obtain citizenship later on.
Your chance to become a local citizen increases if you establish “close ties” with the country, which means doing one of the following things:
- Membership in a Paraguayan club
- Set up a business in Paraguay in your name
- Join a Spanish language course
- Rent or buy real estate that will be your residential address in the country
As soon as two years are over, you can acquire the status of a permanent resident by submitting a relevant application. Keep in mind, though, that you should demonstrate a real need for a permanent residence permit – for instance, by showing close ties with the country. This document will give you the right to live, work, and study in Paraguay.
You will not need to incur any extra costs for relocation to the country (the fee payable for Cedula issuance is negligible). The cost of living in Paraguay is low if we compare it with the USA, for instance.
The second possible route for relocation to Paraguay is the SUACE program. It will give you an opportunity to obtain a residence permit that is valid for 10 years, but you will need to invest USD 70,000 in Paraguayan business.
This is an excellent option for entrepreneurs who want to expand their business activities and enter the markets of Paraguay and South America. And if you just want to have a “spare” residence permit – well, just in case – this may not be the best option available.
The investment of USD 70,000 in the local business is not the only requirement to be met: you will also need to create 5 new jobs in Paraguay. It means that you have to do some kind of serious business in the country.
Why pay more if Cedula brings the same advantages?
Well, there are some considerations here. First of all, the SUACE program is a faster path to citizenship in Paraguay as you can apply for it after living in the country for just 3 years. Keep in mind, though, that you will have to spend at least 6 years in Paraguay every year and be a fiscal resident of the country to apply for its passport. The Cedula option gives an opportunity to apply for citizenship in 5 years: you have to live for two years on a residence permit, and then become a permanent resident and live in this status for three years.
Uruguay: Legal Residence
Uruguay, a neighbor of Paraguay, also offers attractive conditions for potential immigrants. You will not have to comply with many requirements:
- First, you declare your intention to live in the country.
- Then you prove that you have enough funds for that
And that is all!
At the start, you will receive a 2-year residence permit. This period of time can be used to complete the procedure of permanent residence acquisition in Uruguay which usually takes from 6 to 12 months.
You are required to stay in Uruguay for 6 months before you qualify for permanent residence. Married people can submit an application for a local passport after being in the status of a permanent resident for 3 years. If you are single, you can apply for citizenship in 5 years. In both cases, you are required to spend at least 6 months in the country a year to be its fiscal resident.
The program offered by Uruguay is especially popular with US citizens and Spanish-speaking people at large. The living standards in the country are substantially higher if we compare it with Paraguay. The destination is an ideal choice for those who enjoy a slow-paced countryside-style life.
Uruguay boasts a growing economy, political stability, and numerous natural wonders, making it an attractive place to live in. The simplicity of becoming a resident adds to its appeal.
Attractiveness of the Latin American Region
Here are the main reasons why the popularity of the Latin American immigration programs is growing:
- Geopolitics. This is a neutral region located far from any military conflicts whose number is currently on the increase.
- Freedom of movement across the continent. South America has its own “EU” called MERCOSUR, and Paraguay and Uruguay are its members. Their passports make it possible for you to move freely across the continent.
- Lifestyle. Both countries are absolutely safe, and they offer interesting business opportunities. You will be charmed by their stunning natural landscapes and laid-back lifestyle.
Interested in becoming a citizen of a peaceful country without too much hassle? Please follow the above link to read more or talk to an expert who will answer all your questions.