Immigration to Canada: All the best countries to move to from the US
Tired of watching sh^& burn across the great United States? When things get too hot to handle, having an escape plan makes it a little easier to breathe. If you’re looking for some nice alternatives to the United States of America, here’s a list of great countries worth moving to.
Paraguay
Found in the heart of South America, this land-locked gem has been gaining popularity as a destination for retirees looking to stretch their pension dollars. Beautiful Paraguay is not just for pensioners though. Its beautiful hillsides and low plains provide plenty of space for adventures, not to mention all the shops and nightlife found in its capital, Asuncion.
To obtain a permanent residence here, you need to open a local bank account and deposit $5000 USD. After living in Paraguay for three years, you can apply to be a permanent resident and enjoy the low-cost lifestyle without ever having to go back to the United States of America.
With this application you must demonstrate that you have sufficient ties to Paraguay such as the ownership of land, marriage in the country, or a local job. Spanish is Paraguay’s official language, so it would also be good to brush up before considering the move.
Argentina
Right on the coast of the Pacific Ocean and littered with beautiful mountain scenery, Argentina is a wonderful place to life. This country has something for everyone: whether you’re an outdoorsy adventurer or an aficionado of Jorge Luis Borges, Argentina will awe you with its powerful beauty and profound culture.
The requirements for getting a permanent residency in Argentina include having a minimum income of $2000 USD and living in the country for at least two years before submitting an application. You will also want to know Spanish if deciding to move here, since most Argentinians lack English skills outside Buenos Aires.
Costa Rica
As a giant tourist destination, we wouldn’t be surprised if you’ve already visited this Central American paradise. Costa Rica has an amazing climate, a beautiful geography, and a plethora of exotic, delicious food. This destination has been a hotspot for American tourists, but an ever growing number of people are choosing to take up residence and enjoy the bounty this place has to offer.
To get permanent residency in Costa Rica, you need proof you’re making at least $2500 USD a month, and must visit Costa Rica at least once a year. You can have your own company as a resident, but you’re not allowed to work as an employee of a local business. An added benefit of moving here is that most Costa Ricans speak English and you can get by relatively fine without Spanish.
Czechia
Who wouldn’t want to live in the heart of Kafka country? The Czech Republic, found in the center of Europe, is full of mystical forests, mountains, rivers, and a diverse climate. Not only does the Czech Republic have an amazing environment, but it’s a cultural powerhouse that has given birth to countless great artists and continues to produce contemporary visionaries like Jan Svankmajer.
The process for applying to be a permanent resident takes a little longer here, and applications will be considered after five years of uninterrupted living in the Czech Republic. The cost of living is pretty low when compared to other European countries; the amount needed for a comfortable life is comparatively modest. Showing that you have an income around $900 USD is fine in most cases.
Malaysia
Boasting one of the world’s largest Muslim populations, Malaysia is a culturally rich and ecologically breathtaking country. Luckily, no one has been brainwashed to assassinate any Prime Ministers a la Zoolander, and the country has enjoyed relative stability in a part of the world that has seen its share of tension.
This modern and very livable country requires you to prove you’re making $2300 USD a month before you apply for permanent residency. As a permanent resident you can own and operate your own business or seek employment freely in Malaysia. With walkable cities that are perfect for riding your electric bike too, you’ll be spoilt for choice where to live.
Namibia
Found on the southern coast of Africa, this large and diverse country offers opportunities to live along its vast ocean shoreline or its captivating deserts. English is one of its official languages and the capital Windhoek was voted one of the cheapest places to live in the world.
To apply for residency in Namibia, you need to complete medical tests, provide employment history, and provide certified copies of your training or experience in your field. Once you’re granted a work visa it will last for two years before you need to renew it – and if you change employers while living there you will need to submit a new application.
Canada
The Great White North: most have heard of it, but too few have come to sip its sacred beers and sniff the beaver sacs of freedom. (They smell amazing, seriously.) This country is vast and varied, from oceans to mountains and everything in between. There’s always something to do in this eclectic country that’s been dubbed America’s hat – and the cost of living is not outrageous outside big cities.
Depending on your skillset, the path to becoming a permanent resident in Canada varies. It’s best to reach out to immigration lawyers so they can help you out with the process. There’s a point system for immigration to Canada that includes whether you have a degree or work experience, as well as your age and language abilities. After the application, you must stay in the country for 720 days in a five-year period to maintain your status.
Where else?
Although this is a short list of great places to live, it’s by no means exhaustive. A quick search for expat communities or where to live as a freelancer returns countless other countries that are open & welcoming to productive new residents. Don’t be shy to look around; you might just find the perfect fit for you.
