Almost Nobody Lives in These 5 Countries (But Retirees Love Them!)

These are five countries almost nobody These are five countries almost nobody lives in but retirees love. And there's lives in but retirees love. And there's lives in but retirees love. And there's a country in this list where the a country in this list where the a country in this list where the government doesn't ask you for a minimum government doesn't ask you for a minimum government doesn't ask you for a minimum income, doesn't ask you to buy property, income, doesn't ask you to buy property, income, doesn't ask you to buy property, doesn't ask you to pass a language test, doesn't ask you to pass a language test, doesn't ask you to pass a language test, and straight up does not tax a single and straight up does not tax a single and straight up does not tax a single dollar of your foreign money. I'm not dollar of your foreign money. I'm not dollar of your foreign money. I'm not going to tell you to move there. I don't going to tell you to move there. I don't going to tell you to move there. I don't live there myself, though, of course, I live there myself, though, of course, I live there myself, though, of course, I do live abroad. I'm a retired early in do live abroad. I'm a retired early in do live abroad. I'm a retired early in Vietnam. But there's something that Vietnam. But there's something that Vietnam. But there's something that bothers me about the whole empty country bothers me about the whole empty country bothers me about the whole empty country pitch in general, right? Empty sounds pitch in general, right? Empty sounds pitch in general, right? Empty sounds like space. Empty sounds like cheap. In like space. Empty sounds like cheap. In like space. Empty sounds like cheap. In practice, empty usually means one practice, empty usually means one practice, empty usually means one crowded capital, a 28-hour flight home, crowded capital, a 28-hour flight home, crowded capital, a 28-hour flight home, a hospital that puts you on a plane to a a hospital that puts you on a plane to a a hospital that puts you on a plane to a different country when something different country when something different country when something actually goes wrong, and basically dog actually goes wrong, and basically dog actually goes wrong, and basically dog infrastructure. Empty sounds a bit infrastructure. Empty sounds a bit infrastructure. Empty sounds a bit too much like northern Canada. And too much like northern Canada. And too much like northern Canada. And there's a good reason. No one lives in there's a good reason. No one lives in there's a good reason. No one lives in the Arctic. But I pulled the density the Arctic. But I pulled the density the Arctic. But I pulled the density numbers, the visa rules, and the Numo numbers, the visa rules, and the Numo numbers, the visa rules, and the Numo cost of living table for all five cost of living table for all five cost of living table for all five countries. I got to the bottom of all countries. I got to the bottom of all countries. I got to the bottom of all this data this week, and four of them this data this week, and four of them this data this week, and four of them are close to unoccupied. The fifth is are close to unoccupied. The fifth is are close to unoccupied. The fifth is one of the most crowded countries on the one of the most crowded countries on the one of the most crowded countries on the planet, but it's emptying out faster planet, but it's emptying out faster planet, but it's emptying out faster than the other four, and it ended up than the other four, and it ended up than the other four, and it ended up being the most useful thing on the list being the most useful thing on the list being the most useful thing on the list as a solid counterpoint. Let me give you as a solid counterpoint. Let me give you as a solid counterpoint. Let me give you the scale first because the word empty the scale first because the word empty the scale first because the word empty means nothing without a reference point.

means nothing without a reference point. means nothing without a reference point. Vietnam outside where I live runs about Vietnam outside where I live runs about Vietnam outside where I live runs about 320 people per square kilometer. The UK 320 people per square kilometer. The UK 320 people per square kilometer. The UK is 280. Canada, where I grew up, has is 280. Canada, where I grew up, has is 280. Canada, where I grew up, has about four. It's literally empty land about four. It's literally empty land about four. It's literally empty land and forests in the north all the way up and forests in the north all the way up and forests in the north all the way up to Santa Claus. So now you have a to Santa Claus. So now you have a to Santa Claus. So now you have a reference. Hold those three numbers. reference. Hold those three numbers. reference. Hold those three numbers. Let's start the count and actually dig Let's start the count and actually dig Let's start the count and actually dig into these places and get to the bottom into these places and get to the bottom into these places and get to the bottom of what I think is a little bit of a BS of what I think is a little bit of a BS of what I think is a little bit of a BS trend. Number five, next door to trend. Number five, next door to trend. Number five, next door to Vietnam, Cambodia. right on the hype Vietnam, Cambodia. right on the hype Vietnam, Cambodia. right on the hype train. About 99 people per square train. About 99 people per square train. About 99 people per square kilometer, which doesn't sound that kilometer, which doesn't sound that kilometer, which doesn't sound that small. It's actually three times denser small. It's actually three times denser small. It's actually three times denser the United States. But I'm starting here the United States. But I'm starting here the United States. But I'm starting here on purpose because Cambodia is the one on purpose because Cambodia is the one on purpose because Cambodia is the one that everybody puts on these lists and that everybody puts on these lists and that everybody puts on these lists and almost nobody actually checks out. almost nobody actually checks out. almost nobody actually checks out. Cambodia is not an empty country on Cambodia is not an empty country on Cambodia is not an empty country on paper. It's just smaller and less dense paper. It's just smaller and less dense paper. It's just smaller and less dense than Vietnam. It has roughly 17 million than Vietnam. It has roughly 17 million than Vietnam. It has roughly 17 million people in a space the size of Missouri. people in a space the size of Missouri. people in a space the size of Missouri. But what it has instead is an emptiness But what it has instead is an emptiness But what it has instead is an emptiness of a different kind. Roughly 2 million of a different kind. Roughly 2 million of a different kind. Roughly 2 million of those people live in Nonpen and of those people live in Nonpen and of those people live in Nonpen and outside the capital on Sanreap. The road outside the capital on Sanreap. The road outside the capital on Sanreap. The road network thins out fast and you can drive network thins out fast and you can drive network thins out fast and you can drive for an hour through Kong Tom or all the for an hour through Kong Tom or all the for an hour through Kong Tom or all the way down to Campot and barely pass way down to Campot and barely pass way down to Campot and barely pass another vehicle. The reason Cambodia another vehicle. The reason Cambodia another vehicle. The reason Cambodia keeps showing up on retirement lists is keeps showing up on retirement lists is keeps showing up on retirement lists is the easy visa for American retirees. The the easy visa for American retirees. The the easy visa for American retirees. The visa really is the easiest turn style visa really is the easiest turn style visa really is the easiest turn style into Southeast Asia. An ER extension, 55 into Southeast Asia. An ER extension, 55 into Southeast Asia. An ER extension, 55 years old, that's the only hard years old, that's the only hard years old, that's the only hard requirement. government fee of $290, requirement. government fee of $290, requirement. government fee of $290, $300 a year and allin for your first

$300 a year and allin for your first $300 a year and allin for your first year with an agent fee or paperwork, you year with an agent fee or paperwork, you year with an agent fee or paperwork, you might be spending $400 to retire abroad. might be spending $400 to retire abroad. might be spending $400 to retire abroad. You compare that to Thailand where the You compare that to Thailand where the You compare that to Thailand where the privilege bronze is 650,000 bot and privilege bronze is 650,000 bot and privilege bronze is 650,000 bot and frankly it's about to shut down at the frankly it's about to shut down at the frankly it's about to shut down at the end of September and the gold is 900,000 end of September and the gold is 900,000 end of September and the gold is 900,000 bot which means the minimum entry is bot which means the minimum entry is bot which means the minimum entry is about 25,000 US. It's a jump of almost about 25,000 US. It's a jump of almost about 25,000 US. It's a jump of almost $8,000 this year and it's happening in 4 $8,000 this year and it's happening in 4 $8,000 this year and it's happening in 4 weeks. The part that I got wrong when I weeks. The part that I got wrong when I weeks. The part that I got wrong when I was thinking about this video, but was thinking about this video, but was thinking about this video, but before I actually looked up the numbers, before I actually looked up the numbers, before I actually looked up the numbers, basically every article you're going to basically every article you're going to basically every article you're going to see is going to tell you Cambodia see is going to tell you Cambodia see is going to tell you Cambodia requires 800 to a,000 US cost of living requires 800 to a,000 US cost of living requires 800 to a,000 US cost of living a month. I had that number written down, a month. I had that number written down, a month. I had that number written down, but it's not a legal requirement. It's but it's not a legal requirement. It's but it's not a legal requirement. It's not codified anywhere. It is basically not codified anywhere. It is basically not codified anywhere. It is basically just officer discretion that's been just officer discretion that's been just officer discretion that's been repeated so many times it's become an ad repeated so many times it's become an ad repeated so many times it's become an ad hoc rule of thumb which sounds like good hoc rule of thumb which sounds like good hoc rule of thumb which sounds like good news but it's not because a requirement news but it's not because a requirement news but it's not because a requirement that lives in an officer's judgment can that lives in an officer's judgment can that lives in an officer's judgment can be standardized into a real rule by be standardized into a real rule by be standardized into a real rule by ministerial circular on a Tuesday with ministerial circular on a Tuesday with ministerial circular on a Tuesday with no warning and no grandfathering and no warning and no grandfathering and no warning and no grandfathering and that's exactly what keeps happening in a that's exactly what keeps happening in a that's exactly what keeps happening in a place like Thailand where expats are place like Thailand where expats are place like Thailand where expats are losing their nominee houses and visa losing their nominee houses and visa losing their nominee houses and visa runs are being cut off and everything is runs are being cut off and everything is runs are being cut off and everything is changing constantly possibly because it changing constantly possibly because it changing constantly possibly because it is the best country to live in in is the best country to live in in is the best country to live in in Southeast Asia. But Numo has an at 620 Southeast Asia. But Numo has an at 620 Southeast Asia. But Numo has an at 620 bucks a month cost of living for a bucks a month cost of living for a bucks a month cost of living for a single person minus rent. A one-bedroom single person minus rent. A one-bedroom single person minus rent. A one-bedroom goes for about $600 in the center or 350 goes for about $600 in the center or 350 goes for about $600 in the center or 350 outside. Let's call it 12250 in the outside. Let's call it 12250 in the outside. Let's call it 12250 in the middle of town or 1,000 bucks just under middle of town or 1,000 bucks just under middle of town or 1,000 bucks just under outside of town. Overstay on your visa, outside of town. Overstay on your visa, outside of town. Overstay on your visa, it's poulry 10 bucks a day with no grace it's poulry 10 bucks a day with no grace it's poulry 10 bucks a day with no grace period. So if you fall off the renewal period. So if you fall off the renewal period. So if you fall off the renewal cycle, it's just going to compound from

cycle, it's just going to compound from cycle, it's just going to compound from day one. Is there a catch? Of course, day one. Is there a catch? Of course, day one. Is there a catch? Of course, there always is. Cambodia is a there always is. Cambodia is a there always is. Cambodia is a dollarized economy, which means your dollarized economy, which means your dollarized economy, which means your money buys what it buys in dollars, and money buys what it buys in dollars, and money buys what it buys in dollars, and there's no currency cushion protecting there's no currency cushion protecting there's no currency cushion protecting you in price moves. No geo arbitrage. you in price moves. No geo arbitrage. you in price moves. No geo arbitrage. Medical care above the routine level Medical care above the routine level Medical care above the routine level means a flight to Bangkok. And the ER means a flight to Bangkok. And the ER means a flight to Bangkok. And the ER visa is an extension of stay renewed visa is an extension of stay renewed visa is an extension of stay renewed annually granted at an officer's annually granted at an officer's annually granted at an officer's discretion. The point being, don't get discretion. The point being, don't get discretion. The point being, don't get that confused with residency. You don't that confused with residency. You don't that confused with residency. You don't acrue anything. You don't collect acrue anything. You don't collect acrue anything. You don't collect anything. You can be there 10 years, 15 anything. You can be there 10 years, 15 anything. You can be there 10 years, 15 years, and have the exact same standing years, and have the exact same standing years, and have the exact same standing you had on day one. run the 10-year you had on day one. run the 10-year you had on day one. run the 10-year number on that and $500 a year, let's number on that and $500 a year, let's number on that and $500 a year, let's call it $5,000 over a decade, but call it $5,000 over a decade, but call it $5,000 over a decade, but ultimately you own nothing, have nothing ultimately you own nothing, have nothing ultimately you own nothing, have nothing at the end of that. You compare that to at the end of that. You compare that to at the end of that. You compare that to somewhere like Uruguay where one somewhere like Uruguay where one somewhere like Uruguay where one application at roughly 2500 bucks in application at roughly 2500 bucks in application at roughly 2500 bucks in fees and legal work can buy you fees and legal work can buy you fees and legal work can buy you permanent residency that never needs permanent residency that never needs permanent residency that never needs renewing. Cambodia is cheaper, it's renewing. Cambodia is cheaper, it's renewing. Cambodia is cheaper, it's easier, but it's a short-term fix, easier, but it's a short-term fix, easier, but it's a short-term fix, right? There's no real legal standing right? There's no real legal standing right? There's no real legal standing there. Next up, let's get into number there. Next up, let's get into number there. Next up, let's get into number four. Right next door, somewhere that four. Right next door, somewhere that four. Right next door, somewhere that I've pined for, dreamed of, and has some I've pined for, dreamed of, and has some I've pined for, dreamed of, and has some beautiful places to visit. That's Laos.

beautiful places to visit. That's Laos. beautiful places to visit. That's Laos. About 34 people per square kilometer, About 34 people per square kilometer, About 34 people per square kilometer, under 8 million people in a country the under 8 million people in a country the under 8 million people in a country the size of the UK. And unlike Cambodia, size of the UK. And unlike Cambodia, size of the UK. And unlike Cambodia, this one is actually legitimately empty. this one is actually legitimately empty. this one is actually legitimately empty. If you desire peace, quiet, solitude, If you desire peace, quiet, solitude, If you desire peace, quiet, solitude, you'll find yourself in the middle of you'll find yourself in the middle of you'll find yourself in the middle of mountains and rivers and green verdant mountains and rivers and green verdant mountains and rivers and green verdant hills, the Meong, the villages that hills, the Meong, the villages that hills, the Meong, the villages that really haven't changed shape in many, really haven't changed shape in many, really haven't changed shape in many, many years. People who live in Laos love many years. People who live in Laos love many years. People who live in Laos love it in a way that is hard to pretend. it in a way that is hard to pretend. it in a way that is hard to pretend. It's quiet, it's slow, it's gorgeous. It's quiet, it's slow, it's gorgeous. It's quiet, it's slow, it's gorgeous. Lang Pbang is one of the loveliest small Lang Pbang is one of the loveliest small Lang Pbang is one of the loveliest small cities in Asia, and honestly, I've never cities in Asia, and honestly, I've never cities in Asia, and honestly, I've never met anyone who's visited there and just met anyone who's visited there and just met anyone who's visited there and just sort of shrugged or not been impressed sort of shrugged or not been impressed sort of shrugged or not been impressed by it. It's a stunning place. But to by it. It's a stunning place. But to by it. It's a stunning place. But to live long-term, Laos does not have a live long-term, Laos does not have a live long-term, Laos does not have a retirement visa. You know, not a retirement visa. You know, not a retirement visa. You know, not a difficult one, not an expensive one. difficult one, not an expensive one. difficult one, not an expensive one. There's just no such thing. It's the There's just no such thing. It's the There's just no such thing. It's the same as Vietnam, right? If you're 60 and same as Vietnam, right? If you're 60 and same as Vietnam, right? If you're 60 and you have a pension, just like if you're you have a pension, just like if you're you have a pension, just like if you're living here in Daang or Saigon, there's living here in Daang or Saigon, there's living here in Daang or Saigon, there's no box on a form that describes what no box on a form that describes what no box on a form that describes what you're doing. What exists instead is a you're doing. What exists instead is a you're doing. What exists instead is a set of roots built for other people. The set of roots built for other people. The set of roots built for other people. The LA B2 for foreign workers in Laos LA B2 for foreign workers in Laos LA B2 for foreign workers in Laos sponsoring an employer. The NIB2 for sponsoring an employer. The NIB2 for sponsoring an employer. The NIB2 for investors. The B3 if you marry a investors. The B3 if you marry a investors. The B3 if you marry a citizen. The IB3 for a general longstay citizen. The IB3 for a general longstay citizen. The IB3 for a general longstay permit with financial requirement of permit with financial requirement of permit with financial requirement of $20,000 $20,000 $20,000 or $40,000 for a year. That figure comes or $40,000 for a year. That figure comes or $40,000 for a year. That figure comes from one aggregator, not from the from one aggregator, not from the from one aggregator, not from the government page. So treat it as a government page. So treat it as a government page. So treat it as a starting point and not a promise. I'm starting point and not a promise. I'm starting point and not a promise. I'm ultimately just doing the same research ultimately just doing the same research ultimately just doing the same research as you. The everyday numbers are small as you. The everyday numbers are small as you. The everyday numbers are small though, and the friction is not. An e though, and the friction is not. An e though, and the friction is not. An e visa is $30 to $50 for a month.

visa is $30 to $50 for a month. visa is $30 to $50 for a month. Extensions run $2 a day for another Extensions run $2 a day for another Extensions run $2 a day for another month, so $60 maximum for two months. month, so $60 maximum for two months. month, so $60 maximum for two months. And you can only file them at the And you can only file them at the And you can only file them at the immigration department in BNC, not in immigration department in BNC, not in immigration department in BNC, not in Langbang. So if you're living in the Langbang. So if you're living in the Langbang. So if you're living in the north, every extension is a big round north, every extension is a big round north, every extension is a big round trip. Plenty of people are just going to trip. Plenty of people are just going to trip. Plenty of people are just going to cross the friendship bridge, re-enter, cross the friendship bridge, re-enter, cross the friendship bridge, re-enter, which takes a half day, and is basically which takes a half day, and is basically which takes a half day, and is basically just another name for a visa run. just another name for a visa run. just another name for a visa run. Ultimately, what most long-term Ultimately, what most long-term Ultimately, what most long-term foreigners and expats in Laos actually foreigners and expats in Laos actually foreigners and expats in Laos actually do is pay an agency to arrange a do is pay an agency to arrange a do is pay an agency to arrange a business visa through a sponsoring Lao business visa through a sponsoring Lao business visa through a sponsoring Lao company, which works, which is normal, company, which works, which is normal, company, which works, which is normal, which is a stack of paper, which is which is a stack of paper, which is which is a stack of paper, which is costly, which ultimately is still a gray costly, which ultimately is still a gray costly, which ultimately is still a gray area in someone else's discretion. And area in someone else's discretion. And area in someone else's discretion. And this kind of gray area sponsorship visa, this kind of gray area sponsorship visa, this kind of gray area sponsorship visa, for those of you who don't know, is for those of you who don't know, is for those of you who don't know, is still incredibly common here in Asia. still incredibly common here in Asia. still incredibly common here in Asia. But it's also a great way to get the rug But it's also a great way to get the rug But it's also a great way to get the rug pulled out from under your comfy life at pulled out from under your comfy life at pulled out from under your comfy life at any single moment. Let's talk about any single moment. Let's talk about any single moment. Let's talk about money first, though, because this is the money first, though, because this is the money first, though, because this is the part that I think will honestly surprise part that I think will honestly surprise part that I think will honestly surprise a lot of you. It surprised me a bit. You a lot of you. It surprised me a bit. You a lot of you. It surprised me a bit. You might assume that Laos is the cheapest might assume that Laos is the cheapest might assume that Laos is the cheapest country on the list, right? It's sort of country on the list, right? It's sort of country on the list, right? It's sort of the most far out there. It's not.

the most far out there. It's not. the most far out there. It's not. Numeo's data on BNC is super thin. It's Numeo's data on BNC is super thin. It's Numeo's data on BNC is super thin. It's very hard to find an aggregated amount. very hard to find an aggregated amount. very hard to find an aggregated amount. 96 price entries in 12 months by 11 96 price entries in 12 months by 11 96 price entries in 12 months by 11 contrib contributors. So, you know, contrib contributors. So, you know, contrib contributors. So, you know, you're basically just sort of you're basically just sort of you're basically just sort of crowdsourcing a couple guesses here. You crowdsourcing a couple guesses here. You crowdsourcing a couple guesses here. You know, someone like Monte Vido has know, someone like Monte Vido has know, someone like Monte Vido has thousands of entries. Here in Ho Chi thousands of entries. Here in Ho Chi thousands of entries. Here in Ho Chi Min, likewise, the numbers that are put Min, likewise, the numbers that are put Min, likewise, the numbers that are put put up though, a one-bedroom in Vianchan put up though, a one-bedroom in Vianchan put up though, a one-bedroom in Vianchan is about 650 a month. Outside the is about 650 a month. Outside the is about 650 a month. Outside the center, it's about 400 a month. When you center, it's about 400 a month. When you center, it's about 400 a month. When you run Numioong City comparison, Vianshin run Numioong City comparison, Vianshin run Numioong City comparison, Vianshin comes out as more expensive than here in comes out as more expensive than here in comes out as more expensive than here in Ho Chi Min City, a city of 10 million Ho Chi Min City, a city of 10 million Ho Chi Min City, a city of 10 million Viet, one of the fastest growing Viet, one of the fastest growing Viet, one of the fastest growing economies in Asia. And I'm paying the economies in Asia. And I'm paying the economies in Asia. And I'm paying the same price as some far-flung hippie same price as some far-flung hippie same price as some far-flung hippie relaxing in Vian Chin. It's a bit odd. relaxing in Vian Chin. It's a bit odd. relaxing in Vian Chin. It's a bit odd. You can read it again. You can listen You can read it again. You can listen You can read it again. You can listen again. But the quiet mountain country again. But the quiet mountain country again. But the quiet mountain country with 8 million people costs the same or with 8 million people costs the same or with 8 million people costs the same or more than living in this Asian mega city more than living in this Asian mega city more than living in this Asian mega city which has literally everything you can which has literally everything you can which has literally everything you can imagine. Numeo's national figure for LA imagine. Numeo's national figure for LA imagine. Numeo's national figure for LA is a little under $600 a month for a is a little under $600 a month for a is a little under $600 a month for a single person minus rent. Again, it's single person minus rent. Again, it's single person minus rent. Again, it's built from under 100 entries of people built from under 100 entries of people built from under 100 entries of people who actually live there, which means I who actually live there, which means I who actually live there, which means I don't really believe any of it because don't really believe any of it because don't really believe any of it because ultimately a dozen guys is not data.

ultimately a dozen guys is not data. ultimately a dozen guys is not data. It's just a rumor and some decimal It's just a rumor and some decimal It's just a rumor and some decimal places and honestly is less data points places and honestly is less data points places and honestly is less data points than like a Facebook forum from than like a Facebook forum from than like a Facebook forum from Daang. But I can't show you a better one Daang. But I can't show you a better one Daang. But I can't show you a better one and neither can anybody else making a and neither can anybody else making a and neither can anybody else making a video about how cheap Laos is because video about how cheap Laos is because video about how cheap Laos is because frankly nobody lives there. Sorry, I had frankly nobody lives there. Sorry, I had frankly nobody lives there. Sorry, I had to say it. Come on. Okay, but that to say it. Come on. Okay, but that to say it. Come on. Okay, but that Cambodian income requirement, right? The Cambodian income requirement, right? The Cambodian income requirement, right? The $800,000 month you see sitting online $800,000 month you see sitting online $800,000 month you see sitting online and I had my outline. I took it out of and I had my outline. I took it out of and I had my outline. I took it out of the outline because ultimately there is the outline because ultimately there is the outline because ultimately there is no statute, right? If I'd shot this in no statute, right? If I'd shot this in no statute, right? If I'd shot this in July and you hear me say it in August, July and you hear me say it in August, July and you hear me say it in August, it could be totally changed and my it could be totally changed and my it could be totally changed and my confidence will be shot. That is what it confidence will be shot. That is what it confidence will be shot. That is what it is, right? A video like this is just a is, right? A video like this is just a is, right? A video like this is just a moment stuck in time. Whereas your moment stuck in time. Whereas your moment stuck in time. Whereas your situation is live. It's moving. Your situation is live. It's moving. Your situation is live. It's moving. Your target's moving. And if it moves in a target's moving. And if it moves in a target's moving. And if it moves in a way no fixed data point or single way no fixed data point or single way no fixed data point or single variable can show you, you're probably variable can show you, you're probably variable can show you, you're probably going to need help. And ultimately, if going to need help. And ultimately, if going to need help. And ultimately, if you want my real personal help, you got you want my real personal help, you got you want my real personal help, you got to use the link below to get an actual to use the link below to get an actual to use the link below to get an actual call with me through my website, call with me through my website, call with me through my website, costtooflivingabroad.com, costtooflivingabroad.com, costtooflivingabroad.com, and we can build you a real location and we can build you a real location and we can build you a real location plan. You know, you bring your real plan. You know, you bring your real plan. You know, you bring your real income, your real timeline, the actual income, your real timeline, the actual income, your real timeline, the actual country and city you're dreaming of, and country and city you're dreaming of, and country and city you're dreaming of, and I'll tell you what is currently true for I'll tell you what is currently true for I'll tell you what is currently true for your numbers and the situation on the your numbers and the situation on the your numbers and the situation on the ground. If you just want the ground. If you just want the ground. If you just want the spreadsheets, the breakdowns, you want spreadsheets, the breakdowns, you want spreadsheets, the breakdowns, you want to work through it all yourself DIY to work through it all yourself DIY to work through it all yourself DIY style, that's fine. You can access my style, that's fine. You can access my style, that's fine. You can access my membership with all of my courses, my membership with all of my courses, my membership with all of my courses, my downloadable guides, and dozens of past downloadable guides, and dozens of past downloadable guides, and dozens of past consultations and monthly Q&As's through consultations and monthly Q&As's through consultations and monthly Q&As's through the links below. Let's jump back into the links below. Let's jump back into the links below. Let's jump back into this list and our number three country.

this list and our number three country. this list and our number three country. We're going to go all the way around to We're going to go all the way around to We're going to go all the way around to the other side of the world. Now, I the other side of the world. Now, I the other side of the world. Now, I mentioned it earlier. It's a dreamy mentioned it earlier. It's a dreamy mentioned it earlier. It's a dreamy place for me, Uruguay. And not just for place for me, Uruguay. And not just for place for me, Uruguay. And not just for the footballers. About 19 people per the footballers. About 19 people per the footballers. About 19 people per square kilometer here. talking about square kilometer here. talking about square kilometer here. talking about three and a half million people total three and a half million people total three and a half million people total and almost half of them live in the and almost half of them live in the and almost half of them live in the capital Monteido which means the rest of capital Monteido which means the rest of capital Monteido which means the rest of the country is legitimately farmland, the country is legitimately farmland, the country is legitimately farmland, cattle and coastline. Some of it is cattle and coastline. Some of it is cattle and coastline. Some of it is irresistibly beautiful. The kind of irresistibly beautiful. The kind of irresistibly beautiful. The kind of rugged Latin romance landscape that made rugged Latin romance landscape that made rugged Latin romance landscape that made so many Europeans settle here. It so many Europeans settle here. It so many Europeans settle here. It arguably feels more Italian and German arguably feels more Italian and German arguably feels more Italian and German than anywhere in the old world. Like a than anywhere in the old world. Like a than anywhere in the old world. Like a postcard from European decades past, postcard from European decades past, postcard from European decades past, Uruguay has more cows than people by a Uruguay has more cows than people by a Uruguay has more cows than people by a factor of three. And ultimately, this is factor of three. And ultimately, this is factor of three. And ultimately, this is the stable one. This is an uninterrupted the stable one. This is an uninterrupted the stable one. This is an uninterrupted democracy with functioning courts, low democracy with functioning courts, low democracy with functioning courts, low corruptions, and a small welfare state corruptions, and a small welfare state corruptions, and a small welfare state that mostly works. If you're afraid of that mostly works. If you're afraid of that mostly works. If you're afraid of retiring abroad in the country that will retiring abroad in the country that will retiring abroad in the country that will change this laws and a culture and change this laws and a culture and change this laws and a culture and economy that might shift under you in economy that might shift under you in economy that might shift under you in the coming decade, Uruguay is the the coming decade, Uruguay is the the coming decade, Uruguay is the strongest answer on this list. On top of strongest answer on this list. On top of strongest answer on this list. On top of that, the residency path is clean and that, the residency path is clean and that, the residency path is clean and straightforward, if not exactly easy.

straightforward, if not exactly easy. straightforward, if not exactly easy. There's no legal fixed minimum income. There's no legal fixed minimum income. There's no legal fixed minimum income. In practice, immigration wants to see In practice, immigration wants to see In practice, immigration wants to see about 1,500 US a month or around 2500 about 1,500 US a month or around 2500 about 1,500 US a month or around 2500 for a couple and it has to be passive. A for a couple and it has to be passive. A for a couple and it has to be passive. A pension, social security, dividends, pension, social security, dividends, pension, social security, dividends, annuities, rent from a property you own annuities, rent from a property you own annuities, rent from a property you own back home. A remote salary or freelance back home. A remote salary or freelance back home. A remote salary or freelance income generally will not qualify you, income generally will not qualify you, income generally will not qualify you, right? You can't reframe this. It's not right? You can't reframe this. It's not right? You can't reframe this. It's not a digital nomad option for better or a digital nomad option for better or a digital nomad option for better or worse. But that means it won't become worse. But that means it won't become worse. But that means it won't become the next Bali. The unusual part is what the next Bali. The unusual part is what the next Bali. The unusual part is what you actually get in Uruguay. permanent you actually get in Uruguay. permanent you actually get in Uruguay. permanent residency on first application. No residency on first application. No residency on first application. No temporary phase, no annual renewal temporary phase, no annual renewal temporary phase, no annual renewal treadmill, no lawyers bill every 18 treadmill, no lawyers bill every 18 treadmill, no lawyers bill every 18 months. And that is rare and it is worth months. And that is rare and it is worth months. And that is rare and it is worth real money and real time. And right now real money and real time. And right now real money and real time. And right now you can qualify on the average social you can qualify on the average social you can qualify on the average social security check which is a big deal. Is security check which is a big deal. Is security check which is a big deal. Is there a hard part? Of course. The thing there a hard part? Of course. The thing there a hard part? Of course. The thing that's going to turn off a bunch of you that's going to turn off a bunch of you that's going to turn off a bunch of you drooling penny pinchers. Urgue is the drooling penny pinchers. Urgue is the drooling penny pinchers. Urgue is the most expensive city in Latin America. most expensive city in Latin America. most expensive city in Latin America. That is by hard data according to Numo's That is by hard data according to Numo's That is by hard data according to Numo's own 2026 cost of living index. And it own 2026 cost of living index. And it own 2026 cost of living index. And it isn't even really close. Monte Vido isn't even really close. Monte Vido isn't even really close. Monte Vido scores 55.8 against New York at 100. So scores 55.8 against New York at 100. So scores 55.8 against New York at 100. So it's still half the cost of the US, but it's still half the cost of the US, but it's still half the cost of the US, but an hour on way in Asencium, which you'll an hour on way in Asencium, which you'll an hour on way in Asencium, which you'll talk about later, it's a 28. So it's talk about later, it's a 28. So it's talk about later, it's a 28. So it's almost double the cost of its neighbor.

almost double the cost of its neighbor. almost double the cost of its neighbor. A single person can get by on about A single person can get by on about A single person can get by on about a,000 a month excluding rent. And a a,000 a month excluding rent. And a a,000 a month excluding rent. And a one-bedroom is going to cost about 750 one-bedroom is going to cost about 750 one-bedroom is going to cost about 750 in the center. Outside the center about in the center. Outside the center about in the center. Outside the center about 600. So you're at roughly $16 to $1,800. 600. So you're at roughly $16 to $1,800. 600. So you're at roughly $16 to $1,800. And that's before your healthc care And that's before your healthc care And that's before your healthc care coverage uh just for your basic housing, coverage uh just for your basic housing, coverage uh just for your basic housing, transport, and food type costs. One transport, and food type costs. One transport, and food type costs. One thing to separate out, there is a thing to separate out, there is a thing to separate out, there is a pension benefit in Uruguayan law. The pension benefit in Uruguayan law. The pension benefit in Uruguayan law. The duty-free import package, which is not duty-free import package, which is not duty-free import package, which is not free, requires a $100,000 investment free, requires a $100,000 investment free, requires a $100,000 investment held for 10 years. Either Urguan home held for 10 years. Either Urguan home held for 10 years. Either Urguan home you live in that can't be sold or you live in that can't be sold or you live in that can't be sold or transferred for a decade or just 100 transferred for a decade or just 100 transferred for a decade or just 100 grand nominal in government bonds held grand nominal in government bonds held grand nominal in government bonds held in custody. You can switch [snorts] in custody. You can switch [snorts] in custody. You can switch [snorts] between the two during the 10 years. between the two during the 10 years. between the two during the 10 years. That's a separate decision from legal That's a separate decision from legal That's a separate decision from legal residency, but your pension already buys residency, but your pension already buys residency, but your pension already buys and most retirees ultimately do not need and most retirees ultimately do not need and most retirees ultimately do not need that further step unless they're buying that further step unless they're buying that further step unless they're buying a property. Healthcare cover is what's a property. Healthcare cover is what's a property. Healthcare cover is what's known as a mutualista, a private known as a mutualista, a private known as a mutualista, a private nonprofit co-op. If you're living on a nonprofit co-op. If you're living on a nonprofit co-op. If you're living on a foreign passive income, you're not foreign passive income, you're not foreign passive income, you're not automatically enrolled in the national automatically enrolled in the national automatically enrolled in the national fund. So, you're going to have to budget fund. So, you're going to have to budget fund. So, you're going to have to budget maybe $75 to $250 a month depending on maybe $75 to $250 a month depending on maybe $75 to $250 a month depending on your age and health. Be aware tax rules your age and health. Be aware tax rules your age and health. Be aware tax rules have also changed in Uruguay. The have also changed in Uruguay. The have also changed in Uruguay. The property route in Urgue's foreign income property route in Urgue's foreign income property route in Urgue's foreign income national tax holiday from around 590,000 national tax holiday from around 590,000 national tax holiday from around 590,000 up to 2 million is effective as of last up to 2 million is effective as of last up to 2 million is effective as of last January, and it killed the 60-day January, and it killed the 60-day January, and it killed the 60-day presence route. In other words, foreign presence route. In other words, foreign presence route. In other words, foreign source capital income now faces a 12% source capital income now faces a 12% source capital income now faces a 12% income tax for residents who do not income tax for residents who do not income tax for residents who do not hold. If you qualify under those old hold. If you qualify under those old hold. If you qualify under those old rules, you keep what you had. If you're rules, you keep what you had. If you're rules, you keep what you had. If you're arriving now, you're arriving into a

arriving now, you're arriving into a arriving now, you're arriving into a different country tax-wise than the one different country tax-wise than the one different country tax-wise than the one from 2023. That said, are you going in from 2023. That said, are you going in from 2023. That said, are you going in with 2 million bucks? Is it your with 2 million bucks? Is it your with 2 million bucks? Is it your problem? You know, so maybe you're not problem? You know, so maybe you're not problem? You know, so maybe you're not Anthony or Noane and Uruguay isn't for Anthony or Noane and Uruguay isn't for Anthony or Noane and Uruguay isn't for you. What's number two? Next door, just you. What's number two? Next door, just you. What's number two? Next door, just mentioned Paraguay, a country that I mentioned Paraguay, a country that I mentioned Paraguay, a country that I honestly didn't know much about till I honestly didn't know much about till I honestly didn't know much about till I started doing all this cost of living started doing all this cost of living started doing all this cost of living and move abroad research a couple years and move abroad research a couple years and move abroad research a couple years ago. There's about 17 people per square ago. There's about 17 people per square ago. There's about 17 people per square kilometer, including a couple YouTubers kilometer, including a couple YouTubers kilometer, including a couple YouTubers who I love. The emptiest country on this who I love. The emptiest country on this who I love. The emptiest country on this list by a clear margin, and a place that list by a clear margin, and a place that list by a clear margin, and a place that seemingly just gets more and more and seemingly just gets more and more and seemingly just gets more and more and more attractive to foreigners looking more attractive to foreigners looking more attractive to foreigners looking for an affordable entry point into South for an affordable entry point into South for an affordable entry point into South America. and a Latin retirement. America. and a Latin retirement. America. and a Latin retirement. Paraguay is landlocked. It's hot and Paraguay is landlocked. It's hot and Paraguay is landlocked. It's hot and frankly until recently mostly ignored. frankly until recently mostly ignored. frankly until recently mostly ignored. The Choco, which is more than half the The Choco, which is more than half the The Choco, which is more than half the national territory, holds something like national territory, holds something like national territory, holds something like 2% of the population. It is the least 2% of the population. It is the least 2% of the population. It is the least visited country in South America, which visited country in South America, which visited country in South America, which is exactly why it is not on anyone's is exactly why it is not on anyone's is exactly why it is not on anyone's radar unless you're actually looking for radar unless you're actually looking for radar unless you're actually looking for it. But it doesn't appear to mind that it. But it doesn't appear to mind that it. But it doesn't appear to mind that it's being left alone to do its own it's being left alone to do its own it's being left alone to do its own thing. The residency and this is why it thing. The residency and this is why it thing. The residency and this is why it keeps coming up. Since 2022, general keeps coming up. Since 2022, general keeps coming up. Since 2022, general temper residency has no fixed minimum temper residency has no fixed minimum temper residency has no fixed minimum income, no bank deposit for the standard income, no bank deposit for the standard income, no bank deposit for the standard route, no property purchase, no language route, no property purchase, no language route, no property purchase, no language exam. You file a sworn declaration of exam. You file a sworn declaration of exam. You file a sworn declaration of your profession or economic activity and your profession or economic activity and your profession or economic activity and that is the entire financial bar.

that is the entire financial bar. that is the entire financial bar. Extremely appealing. Paraguay issued Extremely appealing. Paraguay issued Extremely appealing. Paraguay issued more than 40,000 residency permits last more than 40,000 residency permits last more than 40,000 residency permits last year and is projecting around 80,000 for year and is projecting around 80,000 for year and is projecting around 80,000 for this year. So in a real sense, the this year. So in a real sense, the this year. So in a real sense, the country is trending. It is getting twice country is trending. It is getting twice country is trending. It is getting twice as popular every year. The number of as popular every year. The number of as popular every year. The number of foreigners entering and applying doubled foreigners entering and applying doubled foreigners entering and applying doubled in a single calendar year. Honestly, in a single calendar year. Honestly, in a single calendar year. Honestly, think about that for a minute. There's a think about that for a minute. There's a think about that for a minute. There's a big reason why. Of course, though the big reason why. Of course, though the big reason why. Of course, though the tax system is strictly territorial, tax system is strictly territorial, tax system is strictly territorial, foreign sourced income is not taxed. foreign sourced income is not taxed. foreign sourced income is not taxed. pensions, dividends, rental income, pensions, dividends, rental income, pensions, dividends, rental income, business profits earned abroad, zero. No business profits earned abroad, zero. No business profits earned abroad, zero. No wealth tax, no inheritance tax, no gift wealth tax, no inheritance tax, no gift wealth tax, no inheritance tax, no gift tax, no exit tax. And there's also an tax, no exit tax. And there's also an tax, no exit tax. And there's also an investment door that was just opened investment door that was just opened investment door that was just opened this year. It's called the investor this year. It's called the investor this year. It's called the investor pass. Just launched in April, and it pass. Just launched in April, and it pass. Just launched in April, and it grants direct permanent residency and grants direct permanent residency and grants direct permanent residency and skips the 2-year temporary phase skips the 2-year temporary phase skips the 2-year temporary phase entirely. cost about 70,000 on a entirely. cost about 70,000 on a entirely. cost about 70,000 on a productive business tract or 150,000 for productive business tract or 150,000 for productive business tract or 150,000 for tourism projects, 200,000 for the real tourism projects, 200,000 for the real tourism projects, 200,000 for the real estate or financial options. And it's estate or financial options. And it's estate or financial options. And it's worth knowing about because the only worth knowing about because the only worth knowing about because the only route on this list that hands you route on this list that hands you route on this list that hands you permanence on day one for money rather permanence on day one for money rather permanence on day one for money rather than time and that for some of us is than time and that for some of us is than time and that for some of us is worth the cost. Citizenship runs roughly worth the cost. Citizenship runs roughly worth the cost. Citizenship runs roughly 5 years allin in Paraguay. There's a 5 years allin in Paraguay. There's a 5 years allin in Paraguay. There's a temporary phase plus permanent phase and temporary phase plus permanent phase and temporary phase plus permanent phase and the naturalization itself goes through the naturalization itself goes through the naturalization itself goes through the same Supreme Court. It is very the same Supreme Court. It is very the same Supreme Court. It is very affordable. Some might say cheap. The affordable. Some might say cheap. The affordable. Some might say cheap. The hard facts back this up. Paraguay cost hard facts back this up. Paraguay cost hard facts back this up. Paraguay cost of living offers you great value, of living offers you great value, of living offers you great value, especially with geo arbitrage. Numeo has especially with geo arbitrage. Numeo has especially with geo arbitrage. Numeo has a single person in Asian at about 600 a

a single person in Asian at about 600 a a single person in Asian at about 600 a month minus rent. One bedroom in the month minus rent. One bedroom in the month minus rent. One bedroom in the center is going to be about another center is going to be about another center is going to be about another $600. And outside the center, it's going $600. And outside the center, it's going $600. And outside the center, it's going to be about $375 or 400. Let's call it to be about $375 or 400. Let's call it to be about $375 or 400. Let's call it frankly in the $1,200 to $1,000 range to frankly in the $1,200 to $1,000 range to frankly in the $1,200 to $1,000 range to live in Asunian, one of the three most live in Asunian, one of the three most live in Asunian, one of the three most affordable capitals in Latin America. affordable capitals in Latin America. affordable capitals in Latin America. So, why am I not telling you to go on So, why am I not telling you to go on So, why am I not telling you to go on the next flight you can book? Well, the next flight you can book? Well, the next flight you can book? Well, let's just pump the brakes for a second let's just pump the brakes for a second let's just pump the brakes for a second here, hold our courses, because there's here, hold our courses, because there's here, hold our courses, because there's at least three real reasons you at least three real reasons you at least three real reasons you shouldn't hightail it for Paraguay after shouldn't hightail it for Paraguay after shouldn't hightail it for Paraguay after watching one YouTube video. And none of watching one YouTube video. And none of watching one YouTube video. And none of them are the ones you're going to read them are the ones you're going to read them are the ones you're going to read on the residency agency blogs. Frankly, on the residency agency blogs. Frankly, on the residency agency blogs. Frankly, the permanent residency conversion got a the permanent residency conversion got a the permanent residency conversion got a lot harder this year. It makes sense, of lot harder this year. It makes sense, of lot harder this year. It makes sense, of course, with so many more people course, with so many more people course, with so many more people applying to filings. They've redefined applying to filings. They've redefined applying to filings. They've redefined what counts as proof of economic what counts as proof of economic what counts as proof of economic solveny. So, a bank balance on its own solveny. So, a bank balance on its own solveny. So, a bank balance on its own may not be enough. Now, immigration may not be enough. Now, immigration may not be enough. Now, immigration wants evidence that matches your actual wants evidence that matches your actual wants evidence that matches your actual declared situation, which means more declared situation, which means more declared situation, which means more income records, contracts, apostile income records, contracts, apostile income records, contracts, apostile documents. Basically, the temporary door documents. Basically, the temporary door documents. Basically, the temporary door is wide open, but the permanent door is wide open, but the permanent door is wide open, but the permanent door narrowed a bit, and it's going to take a narrowed a bit, and it's going to take a narrowed a bit, and it's going to take a little bit more paperwork as of last little bit more paperwork as of last little bit more paperwork as of last month. Second, banking. You cannot open month. Second, banking. You cannot open month. Second, banking. You cannot open a Paraguayan bank account without a a Paraguayan bank account without a a Paraguayan bank account without a sedula and you cannot get a sedula sedula and you cannot get a sedula sedula and you cannot get a sedula without approved residency. So even once without approved residency. So even once without approved residency. So even once you have one, initial accounts are you have one, initial accounts are you have one, initial accounts are typically capped around $1,000 in the typically capped around $1,000 in the typically capped around $1,000 in the local currency. Uh full functionality, local currency. Uh full functionality, local currency. Uh full functionality, meaning US dollar to accounts and meaning US dollar to accounts and meaning US dollar to accounts and international transfers, requires a tax international transfers, requires a tax international transfers, requires a tax ID and roughly 6 months of declared

ID and roughly 6 months of declared ID and roughly 6 months of declared activity. So, even if your foreign activity. So, even if your foreign activity. So, even if your foreign income is entirely untacked and your income is entirely untacked and your income is entirely untacked and your declared amount is zero, you still have declared amount is zero, you still have declared amount is zero, you still have to do this to be able to bank. Third, to do this to be able to bank. Third, to do this to be able to bank. Third, and to check this one before you build a and to check this one before you build a and to check this one before you build a plan on it, Paraguay's constitution plan on it, Paraguay's constitution plan on it, Paraguay's constitution permits dual nationality only with permits dual nationality only with permits dual nationality only with countries that have a reciprocity countries that have a reciprocity countries that have a reciprocity agreement. Uh, and that basically just agreement. Uh, and that basically just agreement. Uh, and that basically just means Spain and Italy. So, for an means Spain and Italy. So, for an means Spain and Italy. So, for an American, a Canadian who naturalizes, in American, a Canadian who naturalizes, in American, a Canadian who naturalizes, in theory, you could be asked to renounce. theory, you could be asked to renounce. theory, you could be asked to renounce. In practice, it is rarely enforced, but In practice, it is rarely enforced, but In practice, it is rarely enforced, but in theory, it's in the constitution, in theory, it's in the constitution, in theory, it's in the constitution, right? It is law. So, Paraguay is the right? It is law. So, Paraguay is the right? It is law. So, Paraguay is the best pure numbers cost of living play to best pure numbers cost of living play to best pure numbers cost of living play to live in a less dangerous country on this live in a less dangerous country on this live in a less dangerous country on this entire list, but it might actually be entire list, but it might actually be entire list, but it might actually be the hardest place on this list to the hardest place on this list to the hardest place on this list to actually live. Both things are true. actually live. Both things are true. actually live. Both things are true. It's a paradox. It is what it is. Next It's a paradox. It is what it is. Next It's a paradox. It is what it is. Next up on the list is what I think of as a up on the list is what I think of as a up on the list is what I think of as a real enigma, and we're coming back to real enigma, and we're coming back to real enigma, and we're coming back to Asia for number one on the countries Asia for number one on the countries Asia for number one on the countries nobody lives in, but retirees love to nobody lives in, but retirees love to nobody lives in, but retirees love to dream of. Japan. Okay, you think I'm dream of. Japan. Okay, you think I'm dream of. Japan. Okay, you think I'm crazy. There's 340 people per square crazy. There's 340 people per square crazy. There's 340 people per square kilometer. Tons of people live there, kilometer. Tons of people live there, kilometer. Tons of people live there, right? The bar graph is running off the right? The bar graph is running off the right? The bar graph is running off the page. Japan is denser than Vietnam.

page. Japan is denser than Vietnam. page. Japan is denser than Vietnam. Japan is nine times denser than the Japan is nine times denser than the Japan is nine times denser than the United States. On the metric this entire United States. On the metric this entire United States. On the metric this entire video is built around, Japan does not video is built around, Japan does not video is built around, Japan does not belong anywhere near this list of belong anywhere near this list of belong anywhere near this list of countries where almost nobody lives. And countries where almost nobody lives. And countries where almost nobody lives. And I'm full of it. So, am I lying to you? I'm full of it. So, am I lying to you? I'm full of it. So, am I lying to you? Well, sometimes the stats need actual Well, sometimes the stats need actual Well, sometimes the stats need actual analysis. So, let's break down the analysis. So, let's break down the analysis. So, let's break down the actual numbers and see what's going on actual numbers and see what's going on actual numbers and see what's going on in Japan. Because Japan is emptying out in Japan. Because Japan is emptying out in Japan. Because Japan is emptying out faster than any of the other four faster than any of the other four faster than any of the other four countries. Faster in fact than just countries. Faster in fact than just countries. Faster in fact than just about anywhere on Earth. There are about anywhere on Earth. There are about anywhere on Earth. There are roughly 9 million vacant homes in Japan. roughly 9 million vacant homes in Japan. roughly 9 million vacant homes in Japan. I'm sure you've seen these videos. The I'm sure you've seen these videos. The I'm sure you've seen these videos. The AKA, this is about 14% of the entire AKA, this is about 14% of the entire AKA, this is about 14% of the entire national housing stock. And in five pre national housing stock. And in five pre national housing stock. And in five pre prefectures, the vacancy rate is over prefectures, the vacancy rate is over prefectures, the vacancy rate is over 20%. Okay. Wakia, Tokoshima, Kagoshima, 20%. Okay. Wakia, Tokoshima, Kagoshima, 20%. Okay. Wakia, Tokoshima, Kagoshima, Kochi. We're talking one in five houses Kochi. We're talking one in five houses Kochi. We're talking one in five houses is empty. And the population is getting is empty. And the population is getting is empty. And the population is getting old fast. So there's no one to buy them old fast. So there's no one to buy them old fast. So there's no one to buy them up. And the concentration of empty up. And the concentration of empty up. And the concentration of empty houses is probably not where you would houses is probably not where you would houses is probably not where you would guess. Tokyo actually has the largest guess. Tokyo actually has the largest guess. Tokyo actually has the largest raw count of vacant homes in the country raw count of vacant homes in the country raw count of vacant homes in the country at almost a million, 968,000 of them.

at almost a million, 968,000 of them. at almost a million, 968,000 of them. But it's 10% of the stock, which is But it's 10% of the stock, which is But it's 10% of the stock, which is below the average, right? That's why you below the average, right? That's why you below the average, right? That's why you don't hear about it. But ultimately, the don't hear about it. But ultimately, the don't hear about it. But ultimately, the volume problem is everywhere. This is an volume problem is everywhere. This is an volume problem is everywhere. This is an issue that has been building for nearly issue that has been building for nearly issue that has been building for nearly 40 years as traditional Japan struggles 40 years as traditional Japan struggles 40 years as traditional Japan struggles with immigration and anti-forigner with immigration and anti-forigner with immigration and anti-forigner beliefs and sentiments that have kept beliefs and sentiments that have kept beliefs and sentiments that have kept the island isolated, but also unique and the island isolated, but also unique and the island isolated, but also unique and lovely for hundreds of years. Empty lovely for hundreds of years. Empty lovely for hundreds of years. Empty homes went from 3.9 million in the 80s homes went from 3.9 million in the 80s homes went from 3.9 million in the 80s to 8.4 million in the 2010s to roughly to 8.4 million in the 2010s to roughly to 8.4 million in the 2010s to roughly 10 million now and projected to reach 23 10 million now and projected to reach 23 10 million now and projected to reach 23 million by 2040. These are not ruins in million by 2040. These are not ruins in million by 2040. These are not ruins in the middle of nowhere. Yes, some of them the middle of nowhere. Yes, some of them the middle of nowhere. Yes, some of them are, and those are the ones in viral are, and those are the ones in viral are, and those are the ones in viral videos selling for the price of a used videos selling for the price of a used videos selling for the price of a used motorbike or like a oneo house in Italy. motorbike or like a oneo house in Italy. motorbike or like a oneo house in Italy. But the real pattern reflects entire But the real pattern reflects entire But the real pattern reflects entire neighborhoods, including urban areas, neighborhoods, including urban areas, neighborhoods, including urban areas, hollowing out as elderly owners die and hollowing out as elderly owners die and hollowing out as elderly owners die and heirs who moved to Osako 40 years ago or heirs who moved to Osako 40 years ago or heirs who moved to Osako 40 years ago or just left Japan don't want to return. just left Japan don't want to return. just left Japan don't want to return. Most of Japan's municipalities now run Most of Japan's municipalities now run Most of Japan's municipalities now run an IKEA bank, which is a local an IKEA bank, which is a local an IKEA bank, which is a local government listing site for empty government listing site for empty government listing site for empty houses. And they run them straight up houses. And they run them straight up houses. And they run them straight up because they're desperate for residents.

because they're desperate for residents. because they're desperate for residents. So, the country with 340 people per So, the country with 340 people per So, the country with 340 people per square kilometer has more empty houses square kilometer has more empty houses square kilometer has more empty houses than Paraguay has people. Literally than Paraguay has people. Literally than Paraguay has people. Literally twice over. Now, that is a serious twice over. Now, that is a serious twice over. Now, that is a serious paradox and a real legitimate problem. paradox and a real legitimate problem. paradox and a real legitimate problem. So, here's why I put it at number one. So, here's why I put it at number one. So, here's why I put it at number one. And it's not just the viral empty houses And it's not just the viral empty houses And it's not just the viral empty houses thing in Japan. It's not just that it's thing in Japan. It's not just that it's thing in Japan. It's not just that it's a place I personally would love to a place I personally would love to a place I personally would love to retire cuz Japan has no retirement visa. retire cuz Japan has no retirement visa. retire cuz Japan has no retirement visa. None. What it has is a designated None. What it has is a designated None. What it has is a designated activity status and the long stay for activity status and the long stay for activity status and the long stay for sightseeing and recreation. And the sightseeing and recreation. And the sightseeing and recreation. And the English language internet calls it English language internet calls it English language internet calls it Japan's retirement visa because it's the Japan's retirement visa because it's the Japan's retirement visa because it's the closest thing available to them. It's closest thing available to them. It's closest thing available to them. It's the best fix they have. The bar is 30 the best fix they have. The bar is 30 the best fix they have. The bar is 30 million yen in liquid savings, which is million yen in liquid savings, which is million yen in liquid savings, which is roughly $200,000. roughly $200,000. roughly $200,000. It has to be cash in a bank, not net It has to be cash in a bank, not net It has to be cash in a bank, not net worth, not a brokerage. And if your worth, not a brokerage. And if your worth, not a brokerage. And if your spouse travels separately on the same spouse travels separately on the same spouse travels separately on the same scheme, you need 60 million. So you must scheme, you need 60 million. So you must scheme, you need 60 million. So you must be a national of a visa waiver country be a national of a visa waiver country be a national of a visa waiver country in the first place. You have to carry a in the first place. You have to carry a in the first place. You have to carry a private medical insurance for your whole private medical insurance for your whole private medical insurance for your whole stay. And you're explicitly barred from stay. And you're explicitly barred from stay. And you're explicitly barred from enrolling in Japan's national health enrolling in Japan's national health enrolling in Japan's national health insurance. You can't work paid or insurance. You can't work paid or insurance. You can't work paid or unpaid. This is not a route to residency unpaid. This is not a route to residency unpaid. This is not a route to residency and the stay is ultimately capped. That and the stay is ultimately capped. That and the stay is ultimately capped. That is the whole thing, right? $200,000 in is the whole thing, right? $200,000 in is the whole thing, right? $200,000 in cash sitting still. It's going to buy cash sitting still. It's going to buy cash sitting still. It's going to buy you about 12 months of legal residency you about 12 months of legal residency you about 12 months of legal residency that leads to nowhere. It's not a that leads to nowhere. It's not a that leads to nowhere. It's not a permanent residency. Yes, there's also a permanent residency. Yes, there's also a permanent residency. Yes, there's also a digital nomad visa, but when you end or digital nomad visa, but when you end or digital nomad visa, but when you end or when it ends, you leave. And then, of when it ends, you leave. And then, of when it ends, you leave. And then, of course, there's the property trap. And course, there's the property trap. And course, there's the property trap. And this is the single most common mistake this is the single most common mistake this is the single most common mistake foreign buyers are going to make with foreign buyers are going to make with foreign buyers are going to make with Japan. Buying a house in Japan gives you

Japan. Buying a house in Japan gives you Japan. Buying a house in Japan gives you no immigration status. None. Zero. You no immigration status. None. Zero. You no immigration status. None. Zero. You can buy a beautiful 500,000 yen can buy a beautiful 500,000 yen can buy a beautiful 500,000 yen farmhouse and you'll still be standing farmhouse and you'll still be standing farmhouse and you'll still be standing at immigration with a 90-day tourist at immigration with a 90-day tourist at immigration with a 90-day tourist stamp like everyone else or less if the stamp like everyone else or less if the stamp like everyone else or less if the laws change. And the paperwork has laws change. And the paperwork has laws change. And the paperwork has tightened this year. Since April, every tightened this year. Since April, every tightened this year. Since April, every buyer, Japanese and foreign, must buyer, Japanese and foreign, must buyer, Japanese and foreign, must declare nationality when registering a declare nationality when registering a declare nationality when registering a transfer at the Legal Affairs Bureau. transfer at the Legal Affairs Bureau. transfer at the Legal Affairs Bureau. And the exemption to let non-residents And the exemption to let non-residents And the exemption to let non-residents skip foreign exchange reporting on a skip foreign exchange reporting on a skip foreign exchange reporting on a personal residence purchase was removed personal residence purchase was removed personal residence purchase was removed on the same day. So non-resident on the same day. So non-resident on the same day. So non-resident acquisitions now require a form filing acquisitions now require a form filing acquisitions now require a form filing within 20 days regardless of what the within 20 days regardless of what the within 20 days regardless of what the property is for, i.e. Airbnb. Neither of property is for, i.e. Airbnb. Neither of property is for, i.e. Airbnb. Neither of those stops you from buying, but both of those stops you from buying, but both of those stops you from buying, but both of them mean the file on foreign ownership them mean the file on foreign ownership them mean the file on foreign ownership is being built and expect further is being built and expect further is being built and expect further legislation coming. Ultimately, it legislation coming. Ultimately, it legislation coming. Ultimately, it always is. But before we throw out Japan always is. But before we throw out Japan always is. But before we throw out Japan or stuff it under the bus or any of or stuff it under the bus or any of or stuff it under the bus or any of these other nearly empty or emptying out these other nearly empty or emptying out these other nearly empty or emptying out countries, let's talk about why density, countries, let's talk about why density, countries, let's talk about why density, in my opinion, is a bad metric to choose in my opinion, is a bad metric to choose in my opinion, is a bad metric to choose your potential home. Even though I've your potential home. Even though I've your potential home. Even though I've been using it for the entire video and been using it for the entire video and been using it for the entire video and the internet seems obsessed with it.

the internet seems obsessed with it. the internet seems obsessed with it. Almost nobody lives in empty parts of Almost nobody lives in empty parts of Almost nobody lives in empty parts of any country and you frankly will not be any country and you frankly will not be any country and you frankly will not be any different. We're very social beings any different. We're very social beings any different. We're very social beings and community, especially with other and community, especially with other and community, especially with other expats until you become fluent in the expats until you become fluent in the expats until you become fluent in the local language, is probably the greatest local language, is probably the greatest local language, is probably the greatest signifier of success for someone moving signifier of success for someone moving signifier of success for someone moving abroad. And yes, obviously, Uruguayans abroad. And yes, obviously, Uruguayans abroad. And yes, obviously, Uruguayans live in Monteido. Paraguayans live in live in Monteido. Paraguayans live in live in Monteido. Paraguayans live in Esson. Cambodians live in Nonen. Esson. Cambodians live in Nonen. Esson. Cambodians live in Nonen. Japanese live in Tokyo for a reason, Japanese live in Tokyo for a reason, Japanese live in Tokyo for a reason, right? I live in Ho Chi Min City with 10 right? I live in Ho Chi Min City with 10 right? I live in Ho Chi Min City with 10 million other people because there are million other people because there are million other people because there are massive benefits that you just won't massive benefits that you just won't massive benefits that you just won't experience with somewhere like 10 people experience with somewhere like 10 people experience with somewhere like 10 people per square kilometer. What density per square kilometer. What density per square kilometer. What density actually predicts is not space. It is actually predicts is not space. It is actually predicts is not space. It is thin infrastructure. Fewer specialists, thin infrastructure. Fewer specialists, thin infrastructure. Fewer specialists, fewer flights, fewer people who speak fewer flights, fewer people who speak fewer flights, fewer people who speak your language when something goes wrong your language when something goes wrong your language when something goes wrong at 2 in the morning. That, my friend, is at 2 in the morning. That, my friend, is at 2 in the morning. That, my friend, is the real product you're buying. And for the real product you're buying. And for the real product you're buying. And for some people, it's the right product if some people, it's the right product if some people, it's the right product if you legitimately know how to get by you legitimately know how to get by you legitimately know how to get by alone on a big empty piece of land. But alone on a big empty piece of land. But alone on a big empty piece of land. But let's be real. For most of us, that is a let's be real. For most of us, that is a let's be real. For most of us, that is a total pipe dream or a vacation to clear total pipe dream or a vacation to clear total pipe dream or a vacation to clear off our mind for a week or so. And so, off our mind for a week or so. And so, off our mind for a week or so. And so, yes, I will defend Japan being on this yes, I will defend Japan being on this yes, I will defend Japan being on this list. Someone will say it is a cheat. It list. Someone will say it is a cheat. It list. Someone will say it is a cheat. It is not. And the reason matters. Every is not. And the reason matters. Every is not. And the reason matters. Every other list in this niche measures how other list in this niche measures how other list in this niche measures how few people live somewhere. Japan is few people live somewhere. Japan is few people live somewhere. Japan is measured by something more useful, which measured by something more useful, which measured by something more useful, which is how fast a place is losing people.

is how fast a place is losing people. is how fast a place is losing people. Wakyama at 21% vacancy is telling you Wakyama at 21% vacancy is telling you Wakyama at 21% vacancy is telling you about the next 20 years. Paraguay's 17 about the next 20 years. Paraguay's 17 about the next 20 years. Paraguay's 17 people per square meter or square people per square meter or square people per square meter or square kilometer is telling you about a map and kilometer is telling you about a map and kilometer is telling you about a map and historical data point but leaving out historical data point but leaving out historical data point but leaving out the fact that residency applications the fact that residency applications the fact that residency applications have doubled. Did their infrastructure have doubled. Did their infrastructure have doubled. Did their infrastructure double? Are they prepared? You know, double? Are they prepared? You know, double? Are they prepared? You know, Daang can't build housing fast enough to Daang can't build housing fast enough to Daang can't build housing fast enough to keep up with rising popularity. But will keep up with rising popularity. But will keep up with rising popularity. But will it still be trending by the time all it still be trending by the time all it still be trending by the time all these 10,000 new condos and resorts come these 10,000 new condos and resorts come these 10,000 new condos and resorts come online and are constructed? One more online and are constructed? One more online and are constructed? One more reason you should pause before flying reason you should pause before flying reason you should pause before flying out to the great outdoors. Okay, two of out to the great outdoors. Okay, two of out to the great outdoors. Okay, two of the five countries here have no the five countries here have no the five countries here have no retirement visa at all, and the other retirement visa at all, and the other retirement visa at all, and the other three are all discretionary in some three are all discretionary in some three are all discretionary in some form. Cambodia's is an officer's form. Cambodia's is an officer's form. Cambodia's is an officer's decision. Uruguay's income floor is a decision. Uruguay's income floor is a decision. Uruguay's income floor is a case-byase solveny test with no number. case-byase solveny test with no number. case-byase solveny test with no number. Paraguay's permanent conversion just got Paraguay's permanent conversion just got Paraguay's permanent conversion just got redefined by a resolution nobody voted redefined by a resolution nobody voted redefined by a resolution nobody voted on. There's no contract anywhere on this on. There's no contract anywhere on this on. There's no contract anywhere on this list that's forever. There ultimately list that's forever. There ultimately list that's forever. There ultimately never is. You're always going to be never is. You're always going to be never is. You're always going to be taking a risk when you move abroad, when taking a risk when you move abroad, when taking a risk when you move abroad, when you decide to retire outside of your you decide to retire outside of your you decide to retire outside of your home country. But ultimately, I think home country. But ultimately, I think home country. But ultimately, I think it's worth it. So, here's the whole it's worth it. So, here's the whole it's worth it. So, here's the whole thing. Five countries where almost thing. Five countries where almost thing. Five countries where almost nobody lives and why retirees love them.

nobody lives and why retirees love them. nobody lives and why retirees love them. Five, Cambodia with 99 people per square Five, Cambodia with 99 people per square Five, Cambodia with 99 people per square kilometer and about $620 a month kilometer and about $620 a month kilometer and about $620 a month excluding rent. Easiest visa in Asia, excluding rent. Easiest visa in Asia, excluding rent. Easiest visa in Asia, but no residency at the end of it. Four, but no residency at the end of it. Four, but no residency at the end of it. Four, Laos, 34 people per kilometer, no Laos, 34 people per kilometer, no Laos, 34 people per kilometer, no retirement visas, and a capital that retirement visas, and a capital that retirement visas, and a capital that actually costs more than Saigon. Three, actually costs more than Saigon. Three, actually costs more than Saigon. Three, Uruguay with 19 people per kilometer, Uruguay with 19 people per kilometer, Uruguay with 19 people per kilometer, permanent residency on day one, but the permanent residency on day one, but the permanent residency on day one, but the most expensive city in Latin America. most expensive city in Latin America. most expensive city in Latin America. Two, Paraguay with 17 people, no income Two, Paraguay with 17 people, no income Two, Paraguay with 17 people, no income requirement, zero tax on foreign money, requirement, zero tax on foreign money, requirement, zero tax on foreign money, but a banking system that will take you but a banking system that will take you but a banking system that will take you 6 months to unlock. And number one, my 6 months to unlock. And number one, my 6 months to unlock. And number one, my vote, Japan. Oddly, 340 people per vote, Japan. Oddly, 340 people per vote, Japan. Oddly, 340 people per kilometer, but 9 million empty houses. kilometer, but 9 million empty houses. kilometer, but 9 million empty houses. You just need 200k to unlock access. So, You just need 200k to unlock access. So, You just need 200k to unlock access. So, if you made me pick one, I would spend 3 if you made me pick one, I would spend 3 if you made me pick one, I would spend 3 months in a sunsium before I signed months in a sunsium before I signed months in a sunsium before I signed anything because the numbers are the anything because the numbers are the anything because the numbers are the best on the list and daily life is the best on the list and daily life is the best on the list and daily life is the least tested. I would go to Uruguay if least tested. I would go to Uruguay if least tested. I would go to Uruguay if what I actually wanted was to stop what I actually wanted was to stop what I actually wanted was to stop worrying and to just have a beautiful worrying and to just have a beautiful worrying and to just have a beautiful retirement that really resembles Europe retirement that really resembles Europe retirement that really resembles Europe and costs $700 a month. I would pretend and costs $700 a month. I would pretend and costs $700 a month. I would pretend to be Anthony Bourdain living my Italian to be Anthony Bourdain living my Italian to be Anthony Bourdain living my Italian dream on that rugged coastline drinking dream on that rugged coastline drinking dream on that rugged coastline drinking wine. All of this is just my opinion at wine. All of this is just my opinion at wine. All of this is just my opinion at the end of the day, guys, gals. I'm not the end of the day, guys, gals. I'm not the end of the day, guys, gals. I'm not a financial adviser. I'm not an a financial adviser. I'm not an a financial adviser. I'm not an immigration lawyer. I'm a guy living in immigration lawyer. I'm a guy living in immigration lawyer. I'm a guy living in Vietnam who retired early and has done Vietnam who retired early and has done Vietnam who retired early and has done this and lived abroad for 18 years on this and lived abroad for 18 years on this and lived abroad for 18 years on just about every continent. And I know just about every continent. And I know just about every continent. And I know that the visa rules in every country that the visa rules in every country that the visa rules in every country change fast enough that you often have change fast enough that you often have change fast enough that you often have to check them twice before you book a to check them twice before you book a to check them twice before you book a single ticket. So, if you want the single ticket. So, if you want the single ticket. So, if you want the latest up-to-date info on cost of living

latest up-to-date info on cost of living latest up-to-date info on cost of living abroad and how to move abroad and retire abroad and how to move abroad and retire abroad and how to move abroad and retire early, just comment the word news below early, just comment the word news below early, just comment the word news below and I'll send you my newsletter every and I'll send you my newsletter every and I'll send you my newsletter every week. If you want my actual help week. If you want my actual help week. If you want my actual help building a relocation plan, use the building a relocation plan, use the building a relocation plan, use the links below to book a call through my links below to book a call through my links below to book a call through my website or just watch this video for website or just watch this video for website or just watch this video for free where I count down the five free where I count down the five free where I count down the five countries I think my parents should move countries I think my parents should move countries I think my parents should move or why ultimately I think you should or why ultimately I think you should or why ultimately I think you should quit now and retire to Vietnam cuz quit now and retire to Vietnam cuz quit now and retire to Vietnam cuz you're probably rich F.