South America has gained international notoriety to find exile for fugitives.

The reality of legally living in South America is quite different today. Unlike countries in Central America, most South American countries do not actively lure foreign residents with attractive easy immigration laws. But there are still several ways for foreign citizens to obtain residency in South America, it has been in the past.

Unique culture

For expatriates, the main difference between South American countries is the varying cost of the local culture. Each South American country has a unique culture that sets it apart from its neighbors. 

Argentina and Chile have a strong European cultural influence due to many immigrants from Europe, whereas, in Ecuador, and Bolivia, the culture of the native people is dominant. Brazil, on the other hand, is a fascinating African cultural influence. Some countries such as Ecuador and Uruguay are known to be great destinations for expatriates

For residing in South America

Foreign visitors to South America are allowed to stay from three to six months per year. If you want to stay longer you need to apply for a visa either as an employee, or an investor. With the exception of a residency visa who is a citizen of that country, are temporary and need to be renewed regularly. 

To work or study in South America

Before applying for a work visa you need a job offer signed by your prospective employer. If you visit a South American country, you may not be able to apply for a work permit and change your status while you are in the country.

Visas are also for foreigners, who intend to study at a high school. Students need to prove that they have been accepted at a university and that they have sufficient financial support. In common you are not allowed to work while they attend school. Student visas are usually granted for one year but can be extended.

Having a temporary residency visa does not mean that you can work. To be able to work you need either a work visa or permanent residency. The most common way for foreigners to residency is by buying property for a business. Such an investment temporary residency visa needs to be renewed every two years.

For Permanent residency 

For Permanent residing status, you will be granted if someone is married to a citizen of that country legally resided there for a number of years with a temporary residency visa. If you have legally worked in South America or have had temporary residency as a retiree or investor, you are usually eligible to apply for permanent residency. Once you obtain permanent residency status you will be able to apply for citizenship in South America. 

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