Applying for expat retirement visa

Member since 22 July 2024

karenboehlerNew member21 November 2024 05:06:11

Hello, and sorry to re-ask what I'm sure has been asked many times before, but I need the most current info so I can leave as soon as my house sells. (And whether on this forum or the internet in general, info really seems to vary.)

Because of the US political situation, I am moving to Ecuador permanently ASAP. I know I should have started with the paperwork a LONG time ago, but I really did not want to believe what happened would happen.

So, a few questions: IS the retirement amount required TODAY $1,275/month? And if it's just a little over that, will it be accepted? (I will have some money from the sale of my house before I leave as well as my social security.)

I THINK I found all the paperwork needed, but can I do this myself or is it better to have help? If so, can anyone recommend anyone/any company? I sent a query to one site, but got no answer back.

Will I need to visit a consulate in the US if I do it myself or can I start the process, come over on a three-month visit and finish it in Ecuador?

That's just a start, but if I can get those questions answered by one or two of you, I would really appreciate it.

Thank you. Karen

OsageArcher Colombia Expert

Member since 11 February 2015

OsageArcherColombia Expert21 November 2024 14:17:03

1602

Have you been to Ecuador before, for any length of time? Can you speak Spanish at least at an intermediate level?

A "no" answer to those questions does not bar you from being successful in Ecuador but it sure will make it more difficult. Hey, it's a different culture! Things don't work there like you expect, for the most part. They don't cater to expats - the government doesn't even cater to their own people, at least not like in the USA.

Before you make irrevocable decisions, you should learn more about Ecuador by putting your "boots on the ground" for at least several extended visits.

To get the most correct information straight from the horse's mouth instead of from an internet forum you should contact your nearest Ecuadorian consulate or the embassy in Washington, D.C. here in the USA. Coincidentally that will probably give you a hint of what to expect in Ecuador. Here is a list of contacts:

https://embassy-finder.com/ecuador_in_usa

https://www.cancilleria.gob.ec/newjersey/

https://www.cancilleria.gob.ec/map_maps/estados-unidos/

karenboehler New member

Member since 22 July 2024

karenboehlerNew member21 November 2024 18:07:00

Sí, hablo un poco de Español y como estudié durante siete años, espero hablar con fluidez en seis meses. (which is one of the many reasons I chose Ecuador.)

And I have been traveling my entire life, so going to a new place sight unseen is no problem for me. The last time this person was president, I went to India for four years because of nothing more than the recommendation of an acquaintance. And I had a great time exploring not only India, but a half-dozen SE Asian countries. (And spoke none of the languages.)

So I'm not worried about going to a country I've never been to. I've been researching for almost a year. But I will click on those links — thank you very much — and since I posted I have found a place to help me apply.