Mr. Barley
Ecuadorian looking for information about Colombia
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219
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About me
Ecuadorian
Registration: 12 May 2023
Does a 401k need to be reported as a foreign asset by uknwn0424
For those of y'all that have filed a "declaracion de renta before", do y'all report your 401k as an asset in formulario 160. I'm not retired, so I don't get payouts and don't have access to my 401k without having to pay penalties, so was curious ...
@Mr. BarleyApparently Sura has a program that is not Medicina Prepagada , you can get without a cedula or visa,fits the bill as far as Visa application is concerned, and can be cancelled if you dont get the visa.If they do, they don't advertise it, ... Read More
Evolution of banking services in Ecuador by Cheryl
Hello everyone, With rapid technological advancements, banking services are digitizing at lightning speed. Expats are thus propelled into a new era of options and payment methods, disrupting the traditional banking services of local ...
I saw signs everywhere in Cuenca for payment apps offered by Banco Pichincha (Deuna) and the cooperative JEP (JEPfast). I have Deuna on my phone and used it to pay a hotel recently. I scanned the QR code of the hotel employee's phone. I tried to ... Read More
Does a 401k need to be reported as a foreign asset by uknwn0424
For those of y'all that have filed a "declaracion de renta before", do y'all report your 401k as an asset in formulario 160. I'm not retired, so I don't get payouts and don't have access to my 401k without having to pay penalties, so was curious ...
@nico peligroHe said, to be 100% sure , dont mention EPS or Medicina prepagada , and just get the fancy health Insurance.I am not taking this news from Alan and Christoph as necessarily bad news.Before my assumption was that after the initial visa ... Read More
Does a 401k need to be reported as a foreign asset by uknwn0424
For those of y'all that have filed a "declaracion de renta before", do y'all report your 401k as an asset in formulario 160. I'm not retired, so I don't get payouts and don't have access to my 401k without having to pay penalties, so was curious ...
Per the cancilleria website for a variety of M visas:Demonstrate that you have health coverage in Colombia OR travel insurance (to put it succintly)Demostrar que cuenta con cubrimiento de salud en Colombia, o con póliza de salud con cobertura ... Read More
Power of attorney and marriage visa request letters by Lpdiver
Does anyone have and be willing to post a copy of the above mentioned letters required for a marriage visa (with personal details redacted of course)? Although I am perfectly capable of composing such letters I am hoping to avoid any issues with not ...
@nico peligroI have never seen any Colombia visa facilitator or blogger specifically address the issue. On the other hand, I have seen it addressed with respect to Ecuador. For example from the thevisaproject,As per Ecuador visa requirements, the ... Read More
Power of attorney and marriage visa request letters by Lpdiver
Does anyone have and be willing to post a copy of the above mentioned letters required for a marriage visa (with personal details redacted of course)? Although I am perfectly capable of composing such letters I am hoping to avoid any issues with not ...
I honestly dont know why you are trying so hard for a visa since you dont plan to stay inside the country for more than 6 months a yearAren't M visas multiple-entry while tourist stamps aren't ? If so, that would be a reason. Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
@nico peligroDo you want Argentina to dollarize if you move there? Read More
Colombia visa application wont change status by Wale Taiwo
I applied for colombia visa online and uploaded all document and paid for application study. and got application confirmation email. almost over a month now the application status has not. changed . I check application. it shows application study ...
It makes sense to me that one's Colombian spouse can bury you in Colombia.However, I have read a few anecdotes on this site of the canciller asking for things that aren't listed.In the case of the Mercosur M visa, insurance is not listed I don't ... Read More
Colombia visa application wont change status by Wale Taiwo
I applied for colombia visa online and uploaded all document and paid for application study. and got application confirmation email. almost over a month now the application status has not. changed . I check application. it shows application study ...
@mtbe I'm with an EPS (on my wife's plan), but also pay complimentary as well. Does that "complementary" provide repatriation to your home country? Read More
Colombia Visa Hell, 2023 by Mr. Barley
Alejandra, associate of star visa facilitator James L., has a pair of new blog posts, including one offering tips for visa applications in 2023.Here is an excerpt:Some persons are having to pursue visas for up to 6 months. We have seen many people ...
Just as cheap as Colombia on the" blue" dollar and a lot higher quality of life in my opinión and good healthcare system.Just for kicks I was my looking for rooms in Buenos Aires on Airbnb. Seemed pricey at first glance. I guess blue dollar ... Read More
Trouble On the Coast and Mafia Carnage by cccmedia
Off-shore and airstrip drug activity along the Ecuador Coast is so bad in Manabí Province that radar may be installed shortly on private property.By presidential decree, property owners in parts of the province will be subject to the ...
I think I read in the comments that Don has already ruled out Uruguay and is taking a look at Argentina. Read More
Colombia Visa Hell, 2023 by Mr. Barley
Alejandra, associate of star visa facilitator James L., has a pair of new blog posts, including one offering tips for visa applications in 2023.Here is an excerpt:Some persons are having to pursue visas for up to 6 months. We have seen many people ...
Influencer "First book of Jym" finally gave us an update. He has abandoned his pensioner's visa application. He is currently in Colombia on a tourist's visa and will be returning to Canada in December. From there he will apply for a work visa for a ... Read More
"Repatriation only" insurance? No travel, no medical. by rf2023
Haven't been able to find such a policy anywhere.I heard that SURA sells one, but it's a rumor unless I can confirm it (with them , eventually).Just wondering if anyone has knowledge of the existence of such a policy offered by either a Colombian ...
The folks at Medellin Advisor are on the ball apparently:"Another difficulty is that normally the insurance companies and providers of these services can only offer you coverage for 1 year, renewable, so if your visa application is for more than one ... Read More
Taxes in Colombia by Allankwnyc
Hi guys, I have been living in Barranquilla for a few months now and have been reading a few posts here about tax law in Colombia. I am a US citizen that pays taxes there. If I I reside in Colombia more than 180 days, I can be completely taxed ...
I have "shopped" several Medellin "accountants" and my problem is that I can eventually find one who will tell me what I want to hear..@LpdiverThe director of the DIAN has a message for those seeking an ... Read More
Are Colombia expats underpaying their EPS obligation? by Mr. Barley
intentionally or not, I have routinely seen expats stating they are paying the minimum required by law for independents, which is $1,160,000 x 12.5% = 145,,000 pesos. 145,000 pesos at conversion rate of 4,100 to 1$ = 35 U.S. dollars.Not ...
I saw a comment from an expat today:Well according to the person I had reviewing my Visa application at the Cancilleria, us expats arennt paying near enough for EPS. Read More
Accuracy of the youtube Gran Colombia channel- Colombia over Ecuador by lunamick
This was my first time watching.He was not to positive on Ecuador.This is a long term opinion.Colombia less coruption?I thought it was an interesting comparison butnot sure if it is accurate, but i really dont know
This was my first time watching.He was not to positive on Ecuador.This is a long term opinion.Colombia less coruption?I thought it was an interesting comparison butnot sure if it is accurate, but i really dont know -@lunamickWell, Colombia is rated ... Read More
CCC or others ..stamping of passport between Colombia and Ecuador by nico peligro
CCC..you make the land Journey between Colombia and Ecuador a lot I understand.My question to you or anyone else, is it mandatory to get your passport stamped crossing the border between Ecuador and Colombia? Or to put it another way is it easy to ...
What I would like to see incorporated in the Pasto option, is a way to live those 6 months on cash-only basis. Of course, this could be relatively easy if someone is married to someone with legal status and their own bank account. Of course, ... Read More
CCC or others ..stamping of passport between Colombia and Ecuador by nico peligro
CCC..you make the land Journey between Colombia and Ecuador a lot I understand.My question to you or anyone else, is it mandatory to get your passport stamped crossing the border between Ecuador and Colombia? Or to put it another way is it easy to ...
What I would like to see incorporated in the Pasto option, is a way to live those 6 months on cash-only basis. Of course, this could be relatively easy if someone is married to someone with legal status and their own bank account. Of course, even ... Read More
CCC or others ..stamping of passport between Colombia and Ecuador by nico peligro
CCC..you make the land Journey between Colombia and Ecuador a lot I understand.My question to you or anyone else, is it mandatory to get your passport stamped crossing the border between Ecuador and Colombia? Or to put it another way is it easy to ...
A shame Pasto only has direct flights to Bogota and Cali. Of course, I would probably fly Quito to Medellin in case I want to talk to Christoph, James, Diana, or Alan, before making my way to Armenia Read More
Trouble On the Coast and Mafia Carnage by cccmedia
Off-shore and airstrip drug activity along the Ecuador Coast is so bad in Manabí Province that radar may be installed shortly on private property.By presidential decree, property owners in parts of the province will be subject to the ...
I wonder what the Conaie have in store for us post-election, depending on who wins. Read More
CCC or others ..stamping of passport between Colombia and Ecuador by nico peligro
CCC..you make the land Journey between Colombia and Ecuador a lot I understand.My question to you or anyone else, is it mandatory to get your passport stamped crossing the border between Ecuador and Colombia? Or to put it another way is it easy to ...
first of.all I always fllyCan you fly internally with an expired cédula or with a passport with an expired visa? Read More
CCC or others ..stamping of passport between Colombia and Ecuador by nico peligro
CCC..you make the land Journey between Colombia and Ecuador a lot I understand.My question to you or anyone else, is it mandatory to get your passport stamped crossing the border between Ecuador and Colombia? Or to put it another way is it easy to ...
@lunamick I googled it and found a excursions that took 10 hours, which includes about 2 hours of travel each way.A site called Chip Viajero talks about how to arrive to the cemetery of Tulcan from Colombia. He says from Ipiales, (which I assume ... Read More
BancoColombia Cardif Integral Insurance scam by nico peligro
I recently saw a couple charges on my BancoColombia account I wasnt familiar with.2 charges for 27,140 to Cardif Protecion Integral.After talking to my branch, it turned out it is a "Partner" of BancoColombia, that enrolled me without my previous ...
@nico peligro There was a stink raised a couple years ago about a bank in Ecuador I think owned by Lasso, charging clients accounts for something, possibly as a result of a cold call by a call center.They passed a law to restrict such ... Read More
CCC or others ..stamping of passport between Colombia and Ecuador by nico peligro
CCC..you make the land Journey between Colombia and Ecuador a lot I understand.My question to you or anyone else, is it mandatory to get your passport stamped crossing the border between Ecuador and Colombia? Or to put it another way is it easy to ...
@nico peligro I made a tourist trip from Pasto to Tulcan by mini bus and there was no showing of passports or interaction with migraciones of either country there or back.Out of curiosity, was the reservation for this mini bus made at the bus ... Read More
I was saddening to learn what happened yesterday in Quito. by lunamick
I am delaying my trip to Ecuador and see how things pan out.Hopefully this is a turning point for the country.I am curious to hear expats opinions that are living in Ecuador.
Turning point? I think Ecuador will convert into a narco-state controlled by the mafias, depending on the election results of 2024 and 2025. Read More
"Repatriation only" insurance? No travel, no medical. by rf2023
Haven't been able to find such a policy anywhere.I heard that SURA sells one, but it's a rumor unless I can confirm it (with them , eventually).Just wondering if anyone has knowledge of the existence of such a policy offered by either a Colombian ...
Foreign Insurance and 1 year premiums will probably get a maximum time on a visa for 1 year. So who in Colombia offers a health policy with monthly premiums and the required coverage that can be used for a visa? Read More
"Repatriation only" insurance? No travel, no medical. by rf2023
Haven't been able to find such a policy anywhere.I heard that SURA sells one, but it's a rumor unless I can confirm it (with them , eventually).Just wondering if anyone has knowledge of the existence of such a policy offered by either a Colombian ...
@rf2023 I like his website and content, and it seems well-optimized for search engine searches. I can't really speak to his competency at processing visas, so I would say he is well-known and popular. Read More
Visa Agency by mbalducci1990
Good morning,I'm looking for a reliable visa agency. I paid $275 to expat group in Medellín, but it's been 2 weeks and they operate extremely slow. They only reply to bad reviews on Google. I need the Visa V for digital nomads.
@rf2023 I am thinking you should be applying for that blogging job with James.However: there is case law in Colombia concerning applicants who did not receive the desired result from the Cancilleria, and who then brought the matter to a Court/Judge ... Read More
"Repatriation only" insurance? No travel, no medical. by rf2023
Haven't been able to find such a policy anywhere.I heard that SURA sells one, but it's a rumor unless I can confirm it (with them , eventually).Just wondering if anyone has knowledge of the existence of such a policy offered by either a Colombian ...
@rf2023Star visa facilitator James says on his website:Travel insurance duration of coverage will be the maximum time of the visa. Foreign Insurance and 1 year premiums will probably get a maximum time on a visa for 1 year. EPS insurance will not ... Read More
Visa Agency by mbalducci1990
Good morning,I'm looking for a reliable visa agency. I paid $275 to expat group in Medellín, but it's been 2 weeks and they operate extremely slow. They only reply to bad reviews on Google. I need the Visa V for digital nomads.
@nico peligro It seems MTBE was better off doing his application solo, as he has done in the past.P.S.I am going to start referring to Langon as "Alan's firm". Read More
Visa Agency by mbalducci1990
Good morning,I'm looking for a reliable visa agency. I paid $275 to expat group in Medellín, but it's been 2 weeks and they operate extremely slow. They only reply to bad reviews on Google. I need the Visa V for digital nomads.
@mtbe Did they audit your income for purposes of EPS? Read More
"Repatriation only" insurance? No travel, no medical. by rf2023
Haven't been able to find such a policy anywhere.I heard that SURA sells one, but it's a rumor unless I can confirm it (with them , eventually).Just wondering if anyone has knowledge of the existence of such a policy offered by either a Colombian ...
As far as I have seen and heard, repatriation benefits cover whoever the policy is under, regardless of nationality. -@ChineduOparaI would imagine you have read the clause of your Sura policy concerning repatriation. Read More
"Repatriation only" insurance? No travel, no medical. by rf2023
Haven't been able to find such a policy anywhere.I heard that SURA sells one, but it's a rumor unless I can confirm it (with them , eventually).Just wondering if anyone has knowledge of the existence of such a policy offered by either a Colombian ...
If you need health insurance anyway, buy the highest level of SURA which includes repatriationSo SURA will repatriate you dead or alive to the U.S. or Nigeria? I would have assumed their repatriation benefit would have been for Colombians ... Read More
alternatives to Western Union for collecting cash? by emerald788
Hi, I need to send myself some money from a bank account overseas, but heard that Western Union fees/exchange rates are exorbitant. What's a good alternative? I'm in the Coffee Zone.
Funny guy. Read More
Colombia Visa Hell, 2023 by Mr. Barley
Alejandra, associate of star visa facilitator James L., has a pair of new blog posts, including one offering tips for visa applications in 2023.Here is an excerpt:Some persons are having to pursue visas for up to 6 months. We have seen many people ...
@Mr. Barley I think you would be a good one, appreciate all the info -@lunamickThanks lunamick. However, I have to remain skeptical, since I think I am being trolled by somebody who likes to use avatars of black people or claim they are from ... Read More
Colombia Visa Hell, 2023 by Mr. Barley
Alejandra, associate of star visa facilitator James L., has a pair of new blog posts, including one offering tips for visa applications in 2023.Here is an excerpt:Some persons are having to pursue visas for up to 6 months. We have seen many people ...
I can't edit that prior comment on my cheap android phone since the submit button disappears. So hear is the edit:@Mr. Barley that plan is an expensive option, There are cheaper ones out there. I am not sure what plan you are referring, or where I ... Read More
Colombia Visa Hell, 2023 by Mr. Barley
Alejandra, associate of star visa facilitator James L., has a pair of new blog posts, including one offering tips for visa applications in 2023.Here is an excerpt:Some persons are having to pursue visas for up to 6 months. We have seen many people ...
@nico peligro @Mr. Barley that plan is an expensive option, There are cheaper ones out there. Read More
Colombia Visa Hell, 2023 by Mr. Barley
Alejandra, associate of star visa facilitator James L., has a pair of new blog posts, including one offering tips for visa applications in 2023.Here is an excerpt:Some persons are having to pursue visas for up to 6 months. We have seen many people ...
@nico peligro It seeems they are sticking it to people during the Visa renewal, more than the new applicants.Which leads me to another question. If you indeed give the visa process another shot, wouldn't you be doing so as a tourist without a ... Read More
Wealth tax and 401k by Cristy1977
Hello. Does anybody know if 401k and IRA balances count for the wealth tax calcularion? Thanks
Since you will be reporting your distributions on your 1040, there is an audit trail back to your IRA/401K.I am not necessarily disagreeing with Peligro, but James has mentioned on his website that during a visa renewal, they could ask for your 1040 ... Read More
alternatives to Western Union for collecting cash? by emerald788
Hi, I need to send myself some money from a bank account overseas, but heard that Western Union fees/exchange rates are exorbitant. What's a good alternative? I'm in the Coffee Zone.
@Mr. Barley Just a regular checking account. -@ChineduOparaI am skeptical:Will I pay a fee for using an ATM overseas or in a foreign country? Yes, there is an international transaction fee of up to 1% when using an ATM located outside of the U.S. ... Read More
alternatives to Western Union for collecting cash? by emerald788
Hi, I need to send myself some money from a bank account overseas, but heard that Western Union fees/exchange rates are exorbitant. What's a good alternative? I'm in the Coffee Zone.
For ATM withdrawals:Charles Schwab or Ally Bank Account 👉 Davivienda ATM 👉 Decline Conversion Rate(Both my banks refund ATM fees at the end of billing cycle)-@ChineduOparaDoes Ally Bank refund ATM fees? Do you need a brokerage ... Read More
The reason I stay in Paraguay by Yerkes Neakle
I am a native Paraguayan. Friends who are interested in immigrating to Paraguay, do not hesitate because Paraguay is a wonderful and harmonious country that welcomes people of all classes and backgrounds.Housing resources in Paraguay are now ...
Nice. That is good to hear. I keep telling @nico peligro that Paraguay should be on his list. Read More
Colombia Visa Hell, 2023 by Mr. Barley
Alejandra, associate of star visa facilitator James L., has a pair of new blog posts, including one offering tips for visa applications in 2023.Here is an excerpt:Some persons are having to pursue visas for up to 6 months. We have seen many people ...
@Mr. BarleyIm Canadian, I use “Salud Total” for 50$ CDN per month. I Also have a Cedula and Colombia vise. Recently married my Colombian honey. -@Yvan HuberdeauCongratulations. So you pay the minimum it sounds like. I am still waiting to ... Read More
Rentista Residency Inquiry by Alexandre1504
My wife and I are planning on moving to Argentina at the end of the year. From our research, it seems like we're eligible to apply for the rentista temporary residency. However, we have a few questions before we begin the application process.Is ...
-@nico peligroNow that we are in August, you should be visiting shortly, or are already there. I recommend that you check out Encarnacion Paraguay as well. If you lived there, Argentina would be a short flight away, I think. There might be 3 months ... Read More
Colombia Visa Hell, 2023 by Mr. Barley
Alejandra, associate of star visa facilitator James L., has a pair of new blog posts, including one offering tips for visa applications in 2023.Here is an excerpt:Some persons are having to pursue visas for up to 6 months. We have seen many people ...
I am going to have to mull this article over. Mostly of interest to those who have their resident visas (R) or who are on pathway to get one.The article cites some new lawyers/facilitators , other than four or so we always ... Read More
Are Colombia Expats underpaying their income & wealth tax? by Mr. Barley
I will be researching that question further, but in the meantime, there is a new blog post by the law firm of Langon titled "Filing Personal Taxes in Colombia: A Comprehensive Guide 2023".No link to be provided.
I actually found the introductory paragraph of the email by Medellin Advisors more interesting than the actual article. Where are the cohorts to confirm they have received these inquiries?If you own a property or a business in Medellin, it is very ... Read More
Are Colombia Expats underpaying their income & wealth tax? by Mr. Barley
I will be researching that question further, but in the meantime, there is a new blog post by the law firm of Langon titled "Filing Personal Taxes in Colombia: A Comprehensive Guide 2023".No link to be provided.
i haven't read the latest article yet from Medellin Advisor, but probably will.Last July 31, 2023, was the deadline given by the Dirección de Impuestos y Aduanas Nacionales (DIAN) to report the Registro Único de Beneficiarios Finales ... Read More
Are Colombia Expats underpaying their income & wealth tax? by Mr. Barley
I will be researching that question further, but in the meantime, there is a new blog post by the law firm of Langon titled "Filing Personal Taxes in Colombia: A Comprehensive Guide 2023".No link to be provided.
My concern for some expats applying as rentistas would be that they do so using bond interest income when yields are around, say 3%. If we say that they project 30,000 of income to the cancillería, then they are effectively announcing to ... Read More
Are Colombia Expats underpaying their income & wealth tax? by Mr. Barley
I will be researching that question further, but in the meantime, there is a new blog post by the law firm of Langon titled "Filing Personal Taxes in Colombia: A Comprehensive Guide 2023".No link to be provided.
I was looking at the renewed Medellin Guru website. I guess expats who are required to file income taxes, will be doing so soon using Form 210 if they are tax residents.The filing dates in Colombia for income taxes and foreign asset tax for ... Read More
Stampless in Colombia: Boom or Bust by Mr. Barley
This thread is intended to document my journey in trying to become a migrant (M), followed by a resident (R). Although I am still in Ecuador, I intend to enter Colombia in the coming months, on the way to Medellín, to talk to Colombia's top ...
@Javier03824 Hello Javier,You mentioned on this thread that you have the Mercosur visa. By chance, do you remember if your visa faciliator gave you guidelines regarding what income or minimum bank balance you needed to show to qualify? Clearly, it ... Read More
Any restrictions on flying with estupefacientes from to/from Colombia? by Mr. Barley
I looked for a thread on this question, but didn't find one. Of course, I am referring to the medication prescribed by Ecuadorian doctors on special government authorized blue pads to poor sleepers among others.
I read an article in 2022 about the drug scene in Medellín where my medicine was mentioned. It probably increases my chances of dementia some day, but so does lack of sleep I have read Twenty-four hours a day, vendors call out the names of ... Read More
Any restrictions on flying with estupefacientes from to/from Colombia? by Mr. Barley
I looked for a thread on this question, but didn't find one. Of course, I am referring to the medication prescribed by Ecuadorian doctors on special government authorized blue pads to poor sleepers among others.
Clonazepam. While I will have a doctor's note with me to aid me in obtaining a subscription in Colombia, I thought I would bring on the flight 15 2mg tablets which would last me 30 nights. Read More
An expat social media influencer said what? by Mr. Barley
When an influencer says something interesting that needs to be documented, and possibly rebutted, this thread serves that purpose, at least for me. Of course, I only follow a handful of Youtube channels at this time, although that may need to change ...
Live Streamer Loren recommends to "go chill" between 1 and 3 p.m. in order to deal with the current heat wave in Armenia. He did not elaborate on possible options. Read More
Assessing Colombia for retirement by brettfairweather
HiI am from Ontario Canada have been researching Colombia for a few years now but just recently retired (covidless victim of covid) so now on a very low Canadian pension 2025 a month I was looking at Colombia a beautiful country I've learned and ...
I am heading to Colombia in the coming months. I am planning to take out a one year multiple-trip travel policy with a company that rhymes with Jax. Not so much for a visa application, which I am not ready for, but because I don't think I can ... Read More
Any restrictions on flying with estupefacientes from to/from Colombia? by Mr. Barley
I looked for a thread on this question, but didn't find one. Of course, I am referring to the medication prescribed by Ecuadorian doctors on special government authorized blue pads to poor sleepers among others.
I guess not, although they recommend that you have your prescription with you.https://ayuda.avianca.com/hc/es/articles/13090608395931--Qu%C3%A9-debo-hacer-el-d%C3%ADa-de-mi-viaje-si-tengo-una-condici%C3%B3n-m%C3%A9dica-especial- Read More
Any restrictions on flying with estupefacientes from to/from Colombia? by Mr. Barley
I looked for a thread on this question, but didn't find one. Of course, I am referring to the medication prescribed by Ecuadorian doctors on special government authorized blue pads to poor sleepers among others.
sorry about the extra "from" in the title. I was up against the 70 character limit. Read More
Any restrictions on flying with estupefacientes from to/from Colombia?
I looked for a thread on this question, but didn't find one. Of course, I am referring to the medication prescribed by Ecuadorian doctors on special government authorized blue pads to poor sleepers among others. Read More
What language are you folks in Paraguay learning?
I can't imagine trying to learn two new languages. Just curious what expats who are starting from scratch are studying, if at all. Read More
An expat social media influencer said what? by Mr. Barley
When an influencer says something interesting that needs to be documented, and possibly rebutted, this thread serves that purpose, at least for me. Of course, I only follow a handful of Youtube channels at this time, although that may need to change ...
Hey, Where's Wes says he likes not being starred at for a change in Thailand .Livestreamer Loren said something similar once about being Armenia. Of course, he has brown eyes and hair. Read More
Getting permanent residency by KL7AR
I have temporary (2) year PR and a Cedula...how do I get to full permanent residency at the end of 2 years...intention is to live permanently in Paraguay. I have purchased a condo property for $130K USD.Mike
Ok thanks. What you say is logical and what I would expect. I just thought I heard someone say that. Read More
Getting permanent residency by KL7AR
I have temporary (2) year PR and a Cedula...how do I get to full permanent residency at the end of 2 years...intention is to live permanently in Paraguay. I have purchased a condo property for $130K USD.Mike
No, they don't require you to prove economic solvency for the TEMPORARY residence visa.Nevertheless, if you own a house, or have a college degree, you are able to provide one of those documents (property title or university title) to immigration as ... Read More
Getting permanent residency by KL7AR
I have temporary (2) year PR and a Cedula...how do I get to full permanent residency at the end of 2 years...intention is to live permanently in Paraguay. I have purchased a condo property for $130K USD.Mike
Do people need to demonstrate an income or a means to support themselves for the temporary residency? I never heard Caleb Jones mention it when he was promoting this on his YouTube channel? Read More
Stampless in Colombia: Boom or Bust by Mr. Barley
This thread is intended to document my journey in trying to become a migrant (M), followed by a resident (R). Although I am still in Ecuador, I intend to enter Colombia in the coming months, on the way to Medellín, to talk to Colombia's top ...
@Mr. Barley Dear Moderator:Can you reclassify this to the Colombia forum? Thanks. Read More
Stampless in Colombia: Boom or Bust
This thread is intended to document my journey in trying to become a migrant (M), followed by a resident (R). Although I am still in Ecuador, I intend to enter Colombia in the coming months, on the way to Medellín, to talk to Colombia's top ... Read More
Preparing to Take the EC Drivers Test by cccmedia
That would be the [i]Examen Teórico[/i] required of all new Gringo drivers in [i]La República.[/i]It's a 20-question multiple-choice test offered up by ANT, La Agencia Nacional de Tránsito, the Ecuador DMV. The questions ...
I was in this situation on Hauyna Cápac recently. I crossed to the middle of the street when it turned green; waited until the cars turning left finished; and then ran on the red. Read More
What to do when your U.S. bank tosses you to the curb. by Mr. Barley
I received the following letter from **** bank in my mailbox in Houston, Texas last month. I have been a client for around 7-8 years and have used the same address during all that time. The letter was slightly edited to protect the privacy of ...
I have started to think about submitting travel notices in preparation of migrating north for any of my financial institutions which issue debit cards. Bank of America did away with travel notices for their credit cards a few years ago, since they ... Read More
An expat social media influencer said what? by Mr. Barley
When an influencer says something interesting that needs to be documented, and possibly rebutted, this thread serves that purpose, at least for me. Of course, I only follow a handful of Youtube channels at this time, although that may need to change ...
@Mr. Barley Question: why'd you marry her in the first place? -@ChineduOparaStupidity, I suppose. However, if it were not for my health issues, we would probably be still together. Read More
An expat social media influencer said what? by Mr. Barley
When an influencer says something interesting that needs to be documented, and possibly rebutted, this thread serves that purpose, at least for me. Of course, I only follow a handful of Youtube channels at this time, although that may need to change ...
@Mr. Barley i have done and continue to do what some people think are stupid things with women in Colombia and general, but more from a soft heart and obsesiveness, -@nico peligroOne of the stupid things I did in Ecuador was to buy a crappy ... Read More
An expat social media influencer said what? by Mr. Barley
When an influencer says something interesting that needs to be documented, and possibly rebutted, this thread serves that purpose, at least for me. Of course, I only follow a handful of Youtube channels at this time, although that may need to change ...
Live Streamer Loren interviewed a Guy named Turtle this past Sunday who lived in Guayaquil for five years before moving on to Colombia. Guayaquil is the last place in Ecuador a gringo would normally go to unless it is for work or woman. Of course, I ... Read More
An expat social media influencer said what? by Mr. Barley
When an influencer says something interesting that needs to be documented, and possibly rebutted, this thread serves that purpose, at least for me. Of course, I only follow a handful of Youtube channels at this time, although that may need to change ...
@Mr. Barley Yeah but who wants to risk being in that 1%., you know? -@ChineduOparaTrue. He seemed to contrast his situation where he had a physical location for his business with digital nomads who work from home or at sheik coffee shops and live in ... Read More
An expat social media influencer said what? by Mr. Barley
When an influencer says something interesting that needs to be documented, and possibly rebutted, this thread serves that purpose, at least for me. Of course, I only follow a handful of Youtube channels at this time, although that may need to change ...
Another thing Caleb said was that death threats are cultural and that Colombians will carry them out less than 1% of the time. (his figure might have been smaller than 1%) Read More
An expat social media influencer said what? by Mr. Barley
When an influencer says something interesting that needs to be documented, and possibly rebutted, this thread serves that purpose, at least for me. Of course, I only follow a handful of Youtube channels at this time, although that may need to change ...
Influencer Caleb McMartin is leaving Colombia. Apparently, he is about to close on 50 acres in the U.S. He is ambitious and has plans He gave a host of things he didn't like about Medellin includingNoise PollutionTrafficAssassins for hire, that for ... Read More
Are Colombia Expats underpaying their income & wealth tax? by Mr. Barley
I will be researching that question further, but in the meantime, there is a new blog post by the law firm of Langon titled "Filing Personal Taxes in Colombia: A Comprehensive Guide 2023".No link to be provided.
@nico peligro If I qualify for a rentista visa someday, I will never pay no more than 5% (12.5% x .40) for EPS. I will also pay EPS for a given month based on the passive income I earned and deposited into my brokerage account during the prior ... Read More
Are Colombia Expats underpaying their income & wealth tax? by Mr. Barley
I will be researching that question further, but in the meantime, there is a new blog post by the law firm of Langon titled "Filing Personal Taxes in Colombia: A Comprehensive Guide 2023".No link to be provided.
Following up on prior thought.In a real life example, a U.S. expat in Paraguay explains what he wasn't willing to do, in order to retire in Colombia:https://youtu.be/YoCdFiLIZ6s?t=317 Read More
FBI BACKGROUND CHECK by Remo Zimbaldi
Hi folks. My name is Ken. After nearly 18 months of researching anything and everything about becoming an expat in Colombia,and getting nothing but a barrage of conflicting and/or outdated information, I decided early in 2023 that my best approach ...
Also, I have read that you can't download the form, but need the stiff cards. I remember buying them off eBay many years ago and had them shipped to Ecuador. Read More
Health insurance[B]M Barley deleted profile + new profile OT by Guest7953
@Tortoise Unbroken We are in Mexico at the moment wondering if our dream of living in Colombia is over due to the insurance requirement.You are in Mexico, but have nothing to say on that forum. Go away.
@USAmariowhat a brutal comment. Dang!!!Yes, but I assure you he was a swell guy. Read More
Getting access to PayPal money in Colombia - in cash by Kiwiprofesor
Hey, Guys, get ready, this is complicated. I'm a kiwi from NZ, living in Colombia. I've recently started earning dollars abroad and getting paid into my Paypal account. I'm finding it impossible to access this money as cash, however, ...
@louis_e XOOM ....a PayPal company has been working for me for several years now. Distibution of sent funds can be picked up in numerous location...Carulla...EXITO...Bancolombia....Davivienda... etc. and it usually arrives in less than an hour ... Read More
FBI BACKGROUND CHECK by Remo Zimbaldi
Hi folks. My name is Ken. After nearly 18 months of researching anything and everything about becoming an expat in Colombia,and getting nothing but a barrage of conflicting and/or outdated information, I decided early in 2023 that my best approach ...
If you have ever been fingerprinted for example a government job etc. then your should have your prints already available in the USA to the FBI. ??? -@USAmarioLogical that there is a database already with your fingerprints, but nothing I have seen ... Read More
An expat social media influencer said what? by Mr. Barley
When an influencer says something interesting that needs to be documented, and possibly rebutted, this thread serves that purpose, at least for me. Of course, I only follow a handful of Youtube channels at this time, although that may need to change ...
@nico peligro I don't have enough fingers and toes to count the stupid things I have done in my life. Did something stupid in 2022, which I think at the minimum will result in an inquiry letter by the I.R.S. Read More
Are Colombia Expats underpaying their income & wealth tax?[B] by cccmedia
There's no need to keep wondering aboutthe answer to this question, which is theapproximate title of this thread....Are some expats underpaying their taxes?The correct answer is...Some are. Some aren't.
[Post under review] Read More
Are Colombia Expats underpaying their income & wealth tax?[B] by cccmedia
There's no need to keep wondering aboutthe answer to this question, which is theapproximate title of this thread....Are some expats underpaying their taxes?The correct answer is...Some are. Some aren't.
I discovered a new English/Spanish blog today for a law firm called Nexo based out of Medellin. I need to do more analysis on this statement, but Nexo sources the following statement to DIAN. Here is a clickable link for the web page of DIAN that ... Read More
An expat social media influencer said what? by Mr. Barley
When an influencer says something interesting that needs to be documented, and possibly rebutted, this thread serves that purpose, at least for me. Of course, I only follow a handful of Youtube channels at this time, although that may need to change ...
Influencer "Where's Wes?" latest video is titled "Why I left Colombia".Some of the reasonsHis wife and church are trying to get his visa cancelled.Mounting paranoia about death threatsHe is headed to Thailand and probably Vietnam, to discover his ... Read More
An expat social media influencer said what? by Mr. Barley
When an influencer says something interesting that needs to be documented, and possibly rebutted, this thread serves that purpose, at least for me. Of course, I only follow a handful of Youtube channels at this time, although that may need to change ...
While the video was from months ago, it popped into my head, since I recently bought new shorts from Amazon(size 30) to replace my other shorts (size 33).Specifically, influencer "Life with David" recommends expats to not wear shorts in Medellin, so ... Read More
Are Colombia Expats underpaying their income & wealth tax?[B] by cccmedia
There's no need to keep wondering aboutthe answer to this question, which is theapproximate title of this thread....Are some expats underpaying their taxes?The correct answer is...Some are. Some aren't.
There's no need to keep wondering aboutthe answer to this question, which is theapproximate title of this thread....Are some expats underpaying their taxes?The correct answer is...Some are. Some aren't. -@cccmediaYour getting off-topic, but explain ... Read More
Are Colombia Expats underpaying their income & wealth tax? by Mr. Barley
I will be researching that question further, but in the meantime, there is a new blog post by the law firm of Langon titled "Filing Personal Taxes in Colombia: A Comprehensive Guide 2023".No link to be provided.
I was reading blog posts on a couple sites I haven't been to before today.One pattern I have seen in reading these blogs, is all the lawyers or facilitators claim world wide income for taxes. It seems as if the accountants/lawyers who don't agree ... Read More
Air Travel Expanding as Ecuador Exits the Covid Era by cccmedia
Starting in July, LatAm airlines will offer five flights a week between Cuenca and Guayaquil, two of Ecuador's three largest cities.Previous efforts to launch the direct route have failed, apparently due to low demand during The Situation.More ...
Anyone ever fly Quito to Bogota on Wingo? I will probably do a "Pasto option" of my own making to Armenia, but I thought i would ask. (Delete the comment if the Spanish is upsetting which is incidental to the $ figures)For the "premium" flight ... Read More
An expat social media influencer said what? by Mr. Barley
When an influencer says something interesting that needs to be documented, and possibly rebutted, this thread serves that purpose, at least for me. Of course, I only follow a handful of Youtube channels at this time, although that may need to change ...
I was about to watch Where's Wes apartment tour, but decided to read the comments instead:@ohno-zx4if 1 day agoSave your money on the visa lawyer the visa in Colombia have become extremely difficult. I'm stating to believe the Colombian president ... Read More
An expat social media influencer said what? by Mr. Barley
When an influencer says something interesting that needs to be documented, and possibly rebutted, this thread serves that purpose, at least for me. Of course, I only follow a handful of Youtube channels at this time, although that may need to change ...
Wlliam Harrison in promoting his sister company for Salento, says Salento is in the mid 70s during the day and can drop down to mid 50s at night. It is a small tourist town that gets busy on the weekends.Of course, contrast that with Armenia and ... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
@Mr. Barley Hah! But honestly, give him a day or 2 more, then ping him. I have found that Latin America folks are TERRIBLE at timely communication... even when they have the opportunity to make money! -@ChineduOparaThat is true, but this guy is a ... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
@futuroexpat Oh yeah I'll surely have to store my stuff in a storage unit here in Barranquilla... even after I sell or donate a few items like my poorly-designed couch I got from HomeCenter, I'll still have my fridge, washer+dryer, office desk, etc. ... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
@Mr. Barley Well if I cannot renew my Digital Nomad Visa by February, then I'll just leave and come back on a Tourist Visa and stay 6 months. Then, for the remainder of 2024 I'll probably go to Thailand. Been meaning to check it out.The main ... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
@Mr. Barley I certainly hope you're right! -@ChineduOparaMe too, since I plan to visit Colombia in 2024. Also, I have a casual interest in owning an apartment in Colombia, so I would have a place to keep my stuff, when I have to return to Ecuador ... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
COP at 4596 on May 11, 2023.COP at 4259 on June 6, 2023 at 3:44 PM UTCIn one month the USD has shown a straight-line decline of 337, declining in value day after day after day, which I think is USD losing about 8% of its value in just one ... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
Now it's below 4,000FFFFFFFFFUUUUUUUU.... -@ChineduOparaIf it makes you feel better, live streamer Loren Lowe in Armenia said recently that anything above $3,800 was gravy for expats.Also, influencer William Harrison of Armenia frequently has said ... Read More
Are you a Medellin Guru? by Guest7953
Has anyone noticed that the Medellin Guru website has been offline for it seems a couple of months. I was looking for a comment from an expat I recall reading saying he was audited 2 years after buying an apartment and that it is very common ...
As expected, the Medellin Guru has been renewed. Read More
Pereira or Armenia? Where to retire to! by J L Barrera10
Good morning, Y'all! I'm a U.S. citizen! Born and raised in south Texas but have lived and worked almost all of my adult life in Houston Tx. Married my Colombian sweetheart (from Cali) last year after bringing her to the U.S. in 2021. I'm now less ...
Both Armenia and Pereira have a Bodytech gym franchise which Peligro recommends. Read More
Pereira or Armenia? Where to retire to! by J L Barrera10
Good morning, Y'all! I'm a U.S. citizen! Born and raised in south Texas but have lived and worked almost all of my adult life in Houston Tx. Married my Colombian sweetheart (from Cali) last year after bringing her to the U.S. in 2021. I'm now less ...
I hope to stay somewhere on Avenida Centenario in Armenia in 2024 and have lunch at Bianco.Of course, I have heard Pereira has the famous big box PriceSmart chain store along with franchises not found in Armenia. They are also a big enough city ... Read More
How do I get mail from the US? by khobbs40
I was just filling out my foreign medical program paperwork for the VA and they ask for a mailing address which makes me wonder about the mail system in Colombia and how I will get my mail reliably from the United States. Things like social security ...
@lunamick Good point. And I will do just that with my most recent letters from Capital One telling me probably, that my account was closed. Read More
What to do when your U.S. bank tosses you to the curb. by Mr. Barley
I received the following letter from **** bank in my mailbox in Houston, Texas last month. I have been a client for around 7-8 years and have used the same address during all that time. The letter was slightly edited to protect the privacy of ...
I heard live streamer Loren Lowe recently say that in Colombia, his utility bills are in the landlord's name except for his internet bill. So, besides Ecuador, we have Colombia and Paraguay confirmed as countries where your name and address won't ... Read More
What to do when your U.S. bank tosses you to the curb. by Mr. Barley
I received the following letter from **** bank in my mailbox in Houston, Texas last month. I have been a client for around 7-8 years and have used the same address during all that time. The letter was slightly edited to protect the privacy of ...
Someone elsewhere in Colombia, claims to have called Chase bank and was told it would be no problem for a non-resident to open a bank account with them. Here is what Chase's "How to open a U.S. bank account for non-residents" web page says:Proof of ... Read More