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Uruguay, the host nation of the first football World Cup in 1930, is located in South America between Argentina and Brazil. With the size of 176’215 sqm (about half the size of Germany) and a population of 3 million people, its population density is low. Welcoming foreign immigrants is a stated policy. Uruguayans are of predominantly European origin and the local culture is heavily influenced by Europe, giving the country a more Mediterranean than Latin American vibe.
The Portuguese were the first Europeans to enter the country in 1512, and the Spanish founded the capital city of Montevideo as a military stronghold in the early 18th century because of the competing claims over the region. Uruguay won its independence between 1811 and 1828. It is today a democratic constitutional republic, with a president who serves as both head of state and head of government.
Uruguay has a high-income economy dominated by agriculture and tourism, and is ranked first in Latin America in democracy, peace, and e-government; and last in corruption. It is also the first in South America when it comes to press freedom, size of the middle class, and prosperity. It ranks second in the continent on economic freedom, income equality, per-capita income, and inflows of FDI.
Uruguay is a founding member of the United Nations (UN), OAS, and MERCOSUR which provides free movement to other member states (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay).
Foreigners can apply for permanent residence (PR), and will initially be issued temporary residence which converts to permanent after a few months. Once PR is granted one may reside in the country indefinitely.
Candidates may apply for Uruguayan citizenship after 3 years of residence. Those receiving it have full citizens’ rights and the passport is valid for a period of 10 years (renewable upon expiry).
Citizens enjoy visa-free travel to 153 countries, incl. UK, Schengen, Singapore, Hong Kong, Russia, New Zealand and Japan.
Citizens enjoy visa-free travel to 153 countries, incl. UK, Schengen, Singapore, Hong Kong, Russia, New Zealand and Japan.
Permanent residents and citizens do not need a passport to travel to most South American countries (a Uruguayan ID card is sufficient).
Permanent residents and citizens do not need a passport to travel to most South American countries (a Uruguayan ID card is sufficient).
No minimum physical presence required to maintain permanent residence.
Direct flights from Europe, North America, Sao Paulo, Buenos Aires, Panama etc.
Direct flights from Europe, North America, Sao Paulo, Buenos Aires, Panama etc.
Montevideo
Spanish, Uruguayan Portuguese
3,518,552
176,215 km2
The Hon. Philippe A. May is the Swiss-Singaporean founder and CEO of EC Holdings with headquarters in Singapore. He is a qualified Associate Financial Planner (AFP™) and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (BBA) and an Executive Diploma in International Diplomatic Law for Honorary Consuls from UNITAR, Geneva. Philippe has extensive experience in International Relations, Private Banking, Insurance and Residence & Citizenship Planning.
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