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A New Life in Guatemala

By Jane Goodwin | September 26, 2007

You don’t have to be a resident to begin your new life in Guatemala. The Pensionado plan here is fantastic. Most foreigners get 90 days as a tourist, and you’d be eligible for another 90 days before you have to decide if you’re staying or returning to the States. I’m betting that you’ll be staying, because Guatemala can offer you a much better life than can the States, for much less money.

To receive your Pensionado status (also known as Resident Retired Citizen status, or Investor Resident Status) you will have to prove pension and/or investment income of at least a thousand dollars per month, plus an addition $200/month for each dependent.

If, after your 90 or 180 days of ‘decision-making,’ you decide to stay in Guatemala (Told you so!) you will need, in addition to the proof of income, your marriage certificate, a certificate from your local police department stating that you have no criminal background or outstanding warrants, a certified photocopy of your passport AND a letter from your embassy validating your passport, translated into Spanish.

A middle-class retirement, which won’t purchase much of a lifestyle back home in the States, will go a long way in Guatemala. You will be able to maintain a great lifestyle, with plenty left over to support your activities. You can attain a much higher standard of living on your social security, investments and retirement income.

Besides, speaking globally, Guatemala isn’t all that far away from the States. It seems even closer now that Guatemala has direct air flights to the U.S., with connections to Canada. You do not need to isolate yourself from your family and friends; you’ll be able to afford to see them whenever you want.

Come on down to Guatemala and give us a try. I think you’ll end up, like most people who come as tourists to ’see how it is,’ staying for the rest of your life. And loving every minute of it.

Sphere It

Topics: Language, Passport, Pensionado, Guatemala, Government Incentives, Friends and Family, Destinations, Money and Taxes, Lifestyle, Travel / Relocation, Retirement Overseas |

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