Living in Uruguay

Thinking of moving to Uruguay? How to buy real estate in Uruguay, apply for residency, set up a business and find reputable English-speaking relocation experts.

Living in Uruguay

Thinking of moving to Uruguay? How to buy real estate in Uruguay, apply for residency, set up a business and find reputable English-speaking relocation experts.

Trusted local service providers

Personal recommendations are essential to getting good service in Uruguay. Think of Guru’Guay as a friend sharing her favourite contacts. We only recommend people and companies we know personally and professionally and have vetted.

Why live in Uruguay 

Uruguay is becoming a more and more attractive place to live. Especially in an increasingly unstable world. Uruguay has a notable history and society. It’s been an outlier in South America—for mostly  good reasons—for centuries. Learn all about the country—history, culture and society, as well as the beaches and wine—plus the pros and the cons. Also a risk assessment by a US expert. 

Cost of living

Uruguay is a developed country and quite expensive by Latin American standards.  Most people are considered middle class, however the majority cannot afford a car or to consider buying a home until they are well into their thirties.

How to become a Uruguay resident

Uruguay is probably one of the easiest countries in the world to immigrate to and obtain residency. You need a clean criminal record and be able to prove a monthly income of around 1500 USD per person. Learn about requirements, documentation, applying as a retiree, vaccines and more. 

Retiring to Uruguay

All the burning questions you have about retiring to Uruguay and other important stuff regarding wills and the rights of a surviving spouse that you will never have expected if you don’t come from this part of the world. 

Buying real estate 

Property requirements, taxes, the buying process, investing in farmland, what’s it like buying a new build and our recommendations for reliable realtors. 

Health care

Uruguay has a very affordable public-private healthcare system. Anyone can buy membership in Uruguay’s forty or so health institutions—the majority of which are known as ‘mutualistas’. Find out the coverage available and how to join the afforable ‘mutualista’ system as a tax-payer or employee.

Starting a business

Learn about what’s involved in setting up a business in Uruguay (from freelance to corporation), taxation as it effects foreigners living in Uruguay and also insurance.

Taxes 

The point at which a foreigner needs to start paying tax, tax obligations when you live in Uruguay but work for a company abroad, taxes on royalties and tax breaks for business owners. 

Podcasts about moving to Uruguay

Guru’Guay creator Karen A Higgs is a frequent guest in the media and podcasts to talk about Uruguay as a place to live, work and travel. If you like this, check out her other media appearances.

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4 Responses

  1. Hello Karen
    I am from India , how I can get residency or temporary residency visa ? I have a well established business in India . i am doctor of eye care .
    thanks

    1. Hi Yatish, you will need to apply for a visa and residency. Do write to our relocation specialists listed at the top of the page. They will be able to help/advise you. Good luck! Karen

  2. Hi Karen, I was born in Uruguay, but living in USA for years, I’m planning to visit in April, my question is which American bank is there o you recommend if I decide to stay longer or maybe retire ?? Thanks. I’m already subscribed.

    1. Hi Roberto, any bank here is unaffiliated to the US. I’m not sure I understand your last question. Best wishes — Karen

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