Uruguay Residency by Investment

Uruguay, also known as the “Switzerland of South America”, offers a straightforward and welcoming pathway to long-term residency. Through real estate purchase, business investment, or proof of stable foreign income, applicants can secure residency rights for themselves and their families.

Uruguay is renowned for:

• Political stability and one of the highest democracy rankings worldwide
• European-style lifestyle with beachfront living and ranch estates
• A favorable tax regime designed for international residents and retirees
• A clear legal path from temporary residency to permanent residency and eventually citizenship

• Entrepreneurs and Investors: seeking business opportunities in a safe, stable jurisdiction
• Relocating families: looking for a secure environment with excellent healthcare and education
• Digital Nomads: benefiting from territorial tax rules and the 11-year tax holiday
• Retirees: attracted by low taxes on pensions, peaceful living, and affordable healthcare
• Global Citizens: those who value a short pathway to citizenship and multiple nationality options

• Must be 18 years or older
• Hold a valid passport
• Provide clean criminal record from country of origin and recent residence
• Show proof of stable income or qualifying investment
• Pass a medical examination in Uruguay
• Be physically present in Uruguay for application and required stay period
• Eligible to include spouse, children, and dependent parents

Uruguay Residency by Investment Program Document Checklist

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents for the Uruguay Residency by Investment program. All documents must be apostilled or legalized, and translated into Spanish where required.

• Valid passport: for the main applicant and all included family members
• Birth certificate: for the applicant and dependents
• Marriage certificate: if applicable
• Police clearance certificates: from the country of origin and any country of residence in the last 5 years
• Proof of financial means or investment: income statements, property purchase agreement, securities contract, or business incorporation documents
• Medical certificate: obtained in Uruguay during the application process
• Proof of residence in Uruguay: rental agreement or property ownership documents
• Recent passport-sized photographs: biometric format for each applicant
• Application forms: completed as required by the National Migration Office

What NTL Trust Handles for You

• Certified Spanish translations of all required documents
• Local medical examination arrangements
• Appointment scheduling and accompaniment in Montevideo
• All on-the-ground submissions and follow-up with the National Migration Office
• Ongoing renewals, updates, and permanent residency applications

Obtaining Uruguayan citizenship through naturalization is the ultimate step after residency. While the Residency by Investment program begins with a temporary Cedula and transitions into permanent residency, successful applicants can move toward full naturalization and a Uruguayan passport.

Key Pathway:

• Hold temporary residency and transition into permanent residency within 6–12 months
• Maintain continuous residency and presence for 3 years (married applicants or families) or 5 years (single applicants) → apply for citizenship by naturalization
• Dual and multiple citizenships are permitted, Uruguay does not require renunciation of your original nationality

Requirements for Naturalization:

• Valid permanent residence in Uruguay
• Continuous physical presence (183 days per year, or alternative stay/ties criteria)
• Clean criminal record and compliance with Uruguayan laws
• Basic fluency in Spanish
• Demonstrated integration and ties to Uruguay (property, bank account, business activity, or family life)

Benefits of Portuguese Citizenship:

• Uruguayan passport with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to more than 150 destinations, including the EU Schengen Area, UK, Japan, and South America
• Ability to maintain dual or multiple citizenships
• Fast-track citizenship compared to most countries (3–5 years)
• Secure long-term status in one of the world’s most democratic and stable nations
• Right to live, work, and study in Uruguay permanently without renewal obligations
• Ability to pass citizenship and all its benefits to future generations

Living in Uruguay as an Expat – Cost of Living, Healthcare & Quality of Life

Uruguay offers one of the highest qualities of life in Latin America, influenced by European culture. Montevideo, consistently ranked the region’s top city for quality of life, combines vibrant arts, dining, and waterfront living with the friendliness of close-knit neighborhoods. Along the 14-mile rambla promenade, residents enjoy walking, cycling, and socializing against the backdrop of the Rio de la Plata.

Beyond the capital, Uruguay offers choice: the cosmopolitan energy of Punta del Este, South America’s premier beach resort, the tranquility of small coastal towns like Atlántida and Piriápolis, or the wide-open spaces of fertile farmland and ranch estates. The country is safe, politically stable, and free of natural disasters, giving families and retirees peace of mind.

The climate is mild year-round, with warm summers averaging 29°C (84°F) and mild winters averaging 14°C (57°F). Outdoor living is part of the culture, from weekend asados (barbecues) to sharing mate with friends, and Uruguay’s inclusive, progressive society makes newcomers feel welcome.

Healthcare is high-quality and affordable, with most expats joining a mutualista plan: a private membership system costing around US$60 per month, with minimal copays. Combined with affordable housing, strong internet connectivity, and efficient public services, Uruguay balances modern conveniences with a slower pace of life.

Cost of Living: Living expenses are moderate compared to North America or Europe. A couple can live comfortably in Montevideo for around US$2,000–2,500 per month, including rent, utilities, groceries, and entertainment. Outside the capital, costs drop significantly, with smaller towns offering long-term rentals starting around US$500 per month.

Internet & Connectivity: Uruguay has one of the fastest and most reliable internet networks in Latin America. Fiber-optic connections in Montevideo and major cities regularly reach speeds of 200–300 Mbps, making the country attractive for digital nomads and remote professionals.

Education Options: Families relocating with children will find both public and private schooling. Public schools are free but taught entirely in Spanish, while private schools—including bilingual and international programs—offer English or French curricula, with tuition ranging between US$4,000–10,000 per year. International schools in Montevideo follow U.S., British, or IB systems, providing globally recognized qualifications.

Whether you prefer the bustle of Montevideo, the sophistication of Punta del Este, or the calm of Uruguay’s countryside, the lifestyle is about balance: security, community, and space to enjoy life.

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. While NTL Trust strives to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information, laws and regulations regarding immigration, residency, and taxation are subject to change without notice and may vary by individual circumstances.

NTL Trust is not a law firm and does not provide legal representation. All residency and investment services are conducted in compliance with applicable Gambian laws and in coordination with licensed local professionals and government-authorized partners.

Residency approval is at the discretion of the Uruguayan immigration authorities and cannot be guaranteed. Applicants are solely responsible for ensuring the accuracy and authenticity of the documents submitted as part of their application.

We recommend that prospective applicants seek independent legal and financial advice tailored to their individual situation before making any decisions regarding immigration, investment, or relocation.

NTL Trust disclaims any liability for actions taken based on the information provided herein.