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How Do I Know If Guatemala Is Right For Me?

By Jane Goodwin | September 6, 2007

First of all, we believe that before anyone makes a commitment to move to another country for the rest of his/her life, that person should give it a trial run before deciding.

We think you’ll love Guatemala, but only YOU can decide.

Here’s what you should do:

Don’t apply for permanent residency until you’ve lived in Guatemala for at least 90 days. If you’re still not sure, apply for an additional 90 days.

After 180 days, you should know. After 180 days, it will be time to make another application. After 180 days, you will have three options for staying:

Your three options are:
#1. Temporary Residence: One year. Renewable. Fee Q500 ($65).
#2. Permanent Residency: Five years, Renewable. Fee: Q3,000 ($350).
#3. Permanent Pensionado/Rentista Status for life. No Fee.

Go ahead and get something temporary if you think you still need some time to think. If you’re ready to commit, however, here’s how to do it:

Be prepared to show proof of pension or investment income of $1000 per month, with an additional $200 per month for each dependant, along with a marriage certificate (if applicable), a police record issued by and signed by your local police department (they’ll know what it is; don’t worry about it unless you’re a convicted felon) a certified photocopy of your passport, and a letter of validity of your passport issued by your embassy. These documents must be in Spanish; this is very important! Don’t bring your English documentation and expect it to be certifiable in another country! Please remember at all times that you are applying to live in a foreign country and must abide by their ways.

If you are in doubt about any of this, it’s best to make an appointment with the nearest Guatemalan consulate. It is even possible to live in Guatamala for 90 days or more as a tourist before you even consider applying for any kind of residency.

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Topics: Prices, Laws, Pensionado, Guatemala, Culture, Passport, Destinations, Money and Taxes, Travel / Relocation, Friends and Family, Retirement Overseas |

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