Yes, this is a big problem, for most people you need a pension, marry a Colombiana, or buy a $200K piece of real estate. You can stay 180 days per calendar year on a tourist visa, that is max, can't fix this with visa border runs.Emigration [to Colombia] might be more difficult if you do not have a pension/SS/annuity.
Hi Ed,kramer,
Your posts are always interesting to me.
Perhaps my question should be in a separate thread, but where would you suggest going to study Spanish? I have in mind for us an extended stay somewhere, living with a family and using a language school.
Thanks.
(This sounds familiar. Have I asked this question before?)
Hi Ed,
The number one place I would recommend is Baden-Powell school in Morelia, Mexico. Great destination and great school.
Other popular locations are Antigua, Guatemala (never been there) and Quito, Ecuador. Both Guatemala and Quito are cheaper than Mexico, although your flights will probably be more. Morelia is safer than both, especially Quito. Although for a couple week visit, I don't place safety as high on the list. It is long term expats that really need to study the safety issue. Quito, which I would place in the same category as Rio, is bad enough though that even going out of the house at night is a bit of an adventure.
I have a friend who was able to stay a year by getting some 19 y/o to apply for a fiance visa. Most people have enough income to qualify but those that don't get a study visa or come to Lima for six months and enjoy the summer until the clock in Colombia starts running again.Yes, this is a big problem, for most people you need a pension, marry a Colombiana, or buy a $200K piece of real estate. You can stay 180 days per calendar year on a tourist visa, that is max, can't fix this with visa border runs.
Sorry, I have not been to Argentina, when are we leaving There are a lot of tourists going there so I am sure you will have plenty to choose from.Kramer,
I am considering going to Argentina for a few months later this year. Do you have any experience with Language schools in and around Buenos Aires?
Yes, I found cases of Americans who had entered into what might be called "Green Card Marriages" in order to get residency there. Because without a pension it is difficult. There is no way I can qualify, even if I show them a million dollars in the bank. There is an investor's visa, but requires moving something like $100K into Colombian banks and you must submit an investment plan for approval. I did consider doing that some day, and just investing in Colombian government bonds, but have no idea if that would have been approved.I have a friend who was able to stay a year by getting some 19 y/o to apply for a fiance visa. Most people have enough income to qualify but those that don't get a study visa or come to Lima for six months and enjoy the summer until the clock in Colombia starts running again.
Thanks again, kramer! Very valuable advice.Hi Ed,
The number one place I would recommend is Baden-Powell school in Morelia, Mexico. Great destination and great school.
Other popular locations are Antigua, Guatemala (never been there) and Quito, Ecuador. Both Guatemala and Quito are cheaper than Mexico, although your flights will probably be more. Morelia is safer than both, especially Quito. Although for a couple week visit, I don't place safety as high on the list. It is long term expats that really need to study the safety issue. Quito, which I would place in the same category as Rio, is bad enough though that even going out of the house at night is a bit of an adventure.
This is a very important statement! There is a big difference between visiting and residing. The travel writers never address this. Another reason why I hang on your words.It is long term expats that really need to study the safety issue.
It is long term expats that really need to study the safety issue.
That's what happened in other countries as well. It was a gradual process but began with police not doing, or told to not do, their jobs. Or petty crime not being prosecuted, leading police to not pursue delinquents. But it always gets much worse. Mobility is no answer for society but it works for the individual.Wow! I checked out that blog and found this! Case in point!
I have read that one of the issues with Ecuador is that the government is not energetically anti-crime, especially petty crime, and that the mugs are getting bolder.
A good argument for staying mobile.