Visa Archives - Foreign policy

10 Tips For Planning a Trip To Cambodia in 2020

Published on November 5, 2020

For many of us, this has not been our year. Many people certainly had plans for traveling that have fallen through due to Covid-19. But not every country is equally affected by the pandemic, and traveling to Cambodia is still a viable and safe option. Some may think that Cambodia is not a usual tourist destination. But the truth is that natural beauties, cultural sites, and people themselves have made Cambodia a very popular destination for anyone with an adventurous spirit. So if you have a desire to experience something new and different from an ordinary touristic trip, Cambodia is a good choice for everybody. However, while being something new and distinctive is their main selling point, it is also a reason why some preparation is necessary before traveling. Their culture and the country itself may have rules that are not the same as from where you are coming. But worry not, here are ten tips for you if you decide to go on this journey.

1. Concerning the Visa

So first thing first, the initial issue that concerns tourists is the visa. There will be a need for a passport size picture and around 40 dollars. The picture doesn’t even need to be a recent one, although it is a good idea. A bit more expensive would be to apply and pay online right away. But that would be less than 10 dollars more expensive, so don’t worry. When landing at their airport, just go to the right queue, and the process will be uncomplicated and productive. If your choice was to apply over the internet, the best idea is to go over their principal website and to do it a week before going. It is always a good idea to check every single information possible when this topic is concerned, so maybe check out cambodiaonlinevisa.com to be sure about every single detail.

2. Dollars will be more useful than Riels

When it comes to currencies they use, there are two of them. The official one would be Cambodian riel (KHR), but because the country is becoming such a tourist hotspot, the US dollar ($USD) is maybe even more dominant. So it would be best to plan accordingly to that and exchange most of your money for dollars and some for riels. To be honest, the locals will prefer the dollars, but it would not hurt to have a few riels as well, maybe to keep them as a souvenir if nothing else.

3. Angkor Wat

The Angkor Wat temple complex is an absolute must if you are visiting Cambodia. There is more to a vacation than drinking beer and relaxing on a warm beach. And while that is something you can and should do while visiting, visiting their most famous cultural site should be a priority as well. Nevertheless, it is impossible to underestimate the size of the Angkor Wat temple complex. There are over 20 temples in an area of around 250 square miles.

4. The time

Traveling around this beautiful country will require a lot of public transport, and too many of us, there could be something different about it. The main difference we are talking about is time. When visiting Cambodia, there are things you can expect from buses, boats, trains, etc. They will not arrive on time. They will not leave on time. The time listed as their travel time is an estimate. So make sure not to make plans that are too precise. There will be a need for “space” between your connection times. In short, the Cambodian transportation system is not a well-oiled machine. It is an adventure.

5. Tuk-tuk drivers

As in any big tourist destination, caution is crucial. Be aware of potential scams, and whatever you do, don’t pay tuk-tuk drivers in advance. They might ask that you do, they might insist, but don’t. It will be quite likely they will only take you a part of the way, or they even might simply leave. They could also ask for more money once reaching the final destination. That is why it is best to pay once you arrived.

6. The children on the streets

When it comes to scams, children are often involved in them. Naturally, we don’t blame them, but it is an unfortunate fact that adults are using them for their gains. It is only reasonable to want to help the poor children, but when buying their postcards, or even food, you will not help anyone. There is a cycle of crime and poverty that is repeating itself here, so if you can’t be a part of the solution, don’t be part of the problem.

7. Respect their religion

The vast majority of the country is Buddhist, and they have certain customs regarding clothes, especially for women. So while visiting their home, there is no need to insult them by wearing revealing outfits. It could cause a few problems and glances, but we are mostly doing that from respect. If they are good hosts, we should be equally fine guests.

8. Avoid tap water

Some people already have this custom from their country, but in Cambodia, it is much better to buy bottled water. A filtering water bottle is also an option, but whatever is the choice, don’t drink tap water. Amount of problems that are an option if you do is not small and is not pleasant to discuss. It will not be too serious, but it could ruin the vacation.

9. The weather

In Cambodia, the weather can be quite hot, sunny, and humid. Therefore, be conscious of that when packing luggage. Sunscreen is vital – pack a lot of it. When you finish with sunscreen, pack more of it, it will be essential. Other than that, a bandana or a light scarf to cover the shoulders is also a good idea. Remember, we have to cover ourselves, even in that weather.

10. Raining seasons

When it comes to the weather, everyone is afraid of rainy seasons. To be honest, there is no need for that, since the rains only last a short period, and then there is a clear day. For some, that might be even a better option, since the crowds will be much smaller. In the end, it really comes down to individual preferences, so make a decision yourself.

There are many more tips that could help a tourist in the amazing adventure that is visiting Cambodia. But part of the experience is discovering them by yourself. What we can vouch for is that the country has so much to offer to the world, and it is never too late to go and find out what makes Cambodia unique.

8 Important Things to Know Before Traveling to Sri Lanka

Published on November 5, 2020

Travel

If you want to have a once-in-a-lifetime vacation experience, Sri Lanka may be the best choice for you, especially if you prefer visiting distant places, and discover a lot of new things you didn’t know before. This country offers beautiful and exotic places, no matter what type of vacation you want – parties all day and all night, or having a nice and calm time with your partner or close friends. But, is there anything you need to know before traveling there? Do you need special documents, or a visa to enter the country? You can click here to inform yourself about what you need to go to Sri Lanka and check if your country has a visa regime with it.

Your personal and travel documents are the first thing you need to have with you when you go to another country. Check the validity of your passport, book the flight, and of course, the accommodation there, and also if you have your payment cards with you because you don’t want to get lost in some foreign country where you don’t know anyone.

But, once you arrive in Sri Lanka, you will see great and highly developed cities, but also some pieces of their beautiful nature, you will catch the sunny days, live together with the locals, and be a part of their culture and tradition. Also, there are just a few things you should be careful about, and you will have a great vacation there. These are just a few of them:

1. It’s more affordable compared to the popular destinations

Sri Lanka offers beautiful sandy beaches, bars, great restaurants, and everything there is exactly what you need, so you can have the time of your life. If you compare it to some similar-looking destinations, you will realize that it’s more affordable than Thailand or Maldives for example, but it still offers breathtaking landscapes and crystal clear sea.

2. People there are very friendly, but…

Locals enjoy that new tourists come every year. They are very generous and polite, but at the same time, you need to be careful and try not to fall for street scammers, especially those who are getting physically very close to you or even touch you, no matter how friendly approach they have. Also, it’s always better to take your suitcase by yourself, and not let anyone take photos with your camera. There are really nice and kind locals, who will do everything to make your stay there more comfortable, but scammers are present in almost every commercial destination, and you must be careful with them.

3. Don’t mention politics when you talk to some of the locals

Sri Lanka had a difficult past when it comes to war and politics. That was one of the reasons that stopped the country from developing fast enough, so there are still parts of it that should be developed. Locals absolutely want to talk about their job, the kids, and everyday problems, but politics is still a topic that is better to be avoided when it comes to conversation.

4. All the places around are easy to reach

Sri Lanka is not just a beautiful coastline and sandy beaches. You can also travel around the country by train or bus, and reach some of the popular natural beauties, tea fields, and breathtaking views. You can always find a way to travel around, but we recommend you to use the train because the railway passes through really beautiful spots everyone should see them at least once in a lifetime.

5. Exchange the money for their local currency

People there are using rupees, even though they are not the main currency there. Also, Sri Lanka rupees are different than Indian and Pakistani, and you will need to exchange them at the border. It’s better to use American dollars and get the rupees when you get inside the country, because of the exchange offices odder better rates. Don’t give your money to street strangers who say they want to give you a better rate – they are again, probably the same street scammers we already talked about.

6. Don’t forget to try tea

You’ve maybe heard about Ceylon tea and cinnamon. Do you know that the previous name of Sri Lanka was Ceylon? Once you arrive there, you are in the center of the most beautiful tea in the world. People there still refer to most of their home products as Ceylon, and while you are there, you can enjoy the authentic taste of their traditional tea.

7. Local food is very delicious

If you want to try special and exotic recipes and combine unusual ingredients, local cuisine is what you need. You will rarely find pizza and burgers there, so be ready to try new things, especially if you are a fan of fish and seafood. Also, be aware that most of the population is Hindu, and you won’t find beef there, and it’s even better not to ask or order anything that contains this ingredient.

8. It develops very fast

As we already said, this country has a painful past because of the civil war that ended not so long ago. Tourists still find it as a risk to travel there, but the truth is that right at this moment, there is no risk for them to choose it as their next vacation destination. Since the country is developing and getting better as time goes by, it will become more expensive, and less affordable than it’s right now – so you need to travel there the sooner you can.

Just like every popular destination, Sri Lanka was also affected by the current pandemic, and the situation with tourism is very bad right now. But, there is always hope that things will be better soon, and we will be able to travel again, and plan our next summer vacation, starting from now. This country is worth visiting, and you need to put it on your planning map right now.

Relocating for Work in China? Expat’s First Steps

Published on October 15, 2020October 28, 2020

China

China has been attracting people from all over the world, so it’s not surprising some consider moving there. The country is famous for transforming itself from a developing area with millions of poor citizens into a powerful and technologized machine that now produces over half of the overall world’s goods.

So, what do you need when relocating to China for work? What is the cost of living there for a year? Are there any guidelines you should follow during the transition? If you’re an expat and planning to move overseas for a new position, this article will provide you with essential info you should know.

Most westerners moving to China have claimed that getting a job is easier than they expected. The most straightforward job for expats is within the English teaching sector because organizations and educational facilities are always searching for native speakers. You don’t even need to speak Chinese to apply for an English teacher position. But if you’re applying for a manager or engineer position, you need to speak some Chinese to communicate with your co-workers easily.

Without much ado, here are the steps you should follow when you plan a relocation to China.

Visa regulation when moving to China

You need a visa when you plan to move to China for work. Chinese authorities have adopted a new law according to which your visa history impacts the counselor’s decision to issue or renew your visa. You can apply for one of four types of visas when you plan to immigrate to China.

– Chinese working visa. To obtain it, your employer must provide you with a work permit. When you arrive in China, you need to register with the police station in your area and get a residence permit.

– Business visa. Apply for this visa if you are traveling overseas to engage in commercial activities or start a business.

– Chinese study visa. You can choose from two types of visas X1 and X2. Both are created solely for students, so you cannot apply for one and gave up school when you arrive. The X2 visa provides a single-entry to the country, and you can use it for less than 6 months. The X1 allows you to enter the country multiple times and stay longer (during your bachelor’s or master’s program with a local university).

– Chinese tourist visa. To get a tourist visa, you need to prove your hotel reservation and vacation plan and documents to prove you have enough funds in your bank account to visit the country.

Visa regulations are frustrating, and the process can be lengthy (it can take up to 2 months), so it’s best to hire a consultant to guide you through the process.

Find accommodation

As everywhere around the world, the rental and housing prices fluctuate throughout China. If you’re relocating alone, a one-bedroom apartment is more than enough, and it can cost around $300 monthly. But if you’re moving to China with your family, expect to pay somewhere between $800 and $1000 per month for a three-bedroom apartment. The average price per square meter to buy property in China is $7000 (in city centers).

Most rentals provide TV and Internet access, but to ensure you browse the Internet securely and the Government doesn’t surveil your activities, get a VPN. Visit this page to check the top of the best VPN services in China. As an expat you may want to use websites like Facebook, Instagram, or Netflix, but China restricts its residents’ access to specific websites, so you need a VPN to remove geographical restrictions on content.

The cost of living in china isn’t high, and the average salary for an expat is from $1700-2500. Relocating to China for work can be an opportunity to save money. Most foreigners prefer living in big cities like Tianjin, Shanghai, Guangzhou, or Shenzhen.

Apply for a job

As you already know, China is the world leader in manufacturing, having the highest number of factories worldwide. As an expat, you can easily find a decent job in any industry, from agriculture to healthcare, IT, mining, and textile. Even if most Chinese are qualified in their profession, the country is actively attracting foreigners looking for a well-paid job in sales, finance, marketing, or teaching. As stated before, most expats occupy English teaching positions in China, and if this is the career path you want to follow, you need a TEOFL certificate in advance to meet educational institutions’ criteria.

If you’re an entrepreneur who wants to start a business in China, you’d be happy to find that the country is rich in talented professionals.

Even though the country provides expats with many job opportunities, knowing how to find the right position for you is essential. To get a job in the principal cities, you need at least two years of experience after obtaining your university degree or PhD. If you lack experience, relocate to a smaller city where the job requirements are less strict. You can also apply for an internship with an international company to gain experience.

Healthcare

China’s national healthcare system operates under the state social insurance plan, but it’s not free. This means you can obtain basic insurance coverage without too much hassle if you’re willing to pay. In general, health insurance covers most medical issues and procedures, but it’s recommended always to ask the medical expert you visit if you must reimburse the procedures.

Suppose you’re suffering from a chronic condition. In that case, you may not find the Chinese healthcare system suitable to treat your medical problem because the public system isn’t as developed as the ones from European countries, the USA, or Canada. Chinese people still appreciate the benefits of traditional rituals and healing practices. So, if you use a specific treatment scheme to alleviate your symptoms, check ahead if you can stick to it once relocating to China because the local doctors may not be able to prescribe you the same drugs because they lack from their healthcare system.

Check with your employer if they offer any type of health insurance, and what conditions it covers because you may need to purchase an additional policy.

Is It Safe to Travel to Saudi Arabia?

Published on September 11, 2020

Travel

People hardly care where they go, when the travel bug bites them. The urge to travel is the only feeling that makes sense then. Saudi Arabia welcomes millions of tourists flocking here on a yearly basis.

If you want to travel to Saudi Arabia, you will need to a visa and passport. Click here to find out how to get a visa to travel to the country of Saudi Arabia.

Generally, Saudi Arabia is safe for tourists. However, they need to keep certain rules and social customs in mind. The local residents of Saudi Arabia are particular about certain social customs and religious rituals. Tourists are safe as long as they do not violate the norms. Many ardent travellers are curious to know whether it is safe to travel to this country because of the strict rules and policies present here. Let us find that out. The points which all the travellers need to follow during their trip to Saudi Arab are as follows:

Coffee and Incense: The citizens of Saudi Arabia serve coffee, when the meeting is about to end. So, the visitors should take the hint when they are served a steaming mug of It is a signal that they should enjoy the coffee and end the meeting. It is an indirect way of saying goodbye. The hosts may even light up an incense stick to signal the end of a business-related conversation. That will be your cue to get up and leave.
Adhere to the dress code: Men should be cautious to keep their legs and shoulders fully covered. It implies that vests and shorts are banned in public. The dress code for ladies is even more stringent. A popular proverb says, “When you are in Rome, do as the Romans do.” Tourists need to follow the proverb as long as they stay in Saudi Arabia. Female tourists are expected to wear an abaya over their normal attire, when they visit any religious place. People can wear any type of shoes. However, it is mandatory to remove the shoes, before you enter any religious place, like a mosque.

Women are free to wear jewellery of any design, but the design should not include any religious symbol. They are also allowed to put on makeup, only if it is not too loud or bright. Tight clothes or skinny jeans are frowned upon. Men need to avoid wearing multiple rings or bracelets. Any dark coloured suit and a tie may be worn over a dress, when they go to work. Only wristwatches and wedding rings are considered to be appropriate ornaments for men. Headgear or scarves are not compulsory for ladies. Tourists may get severely punished for violating the dress code. Female tourists may not walk around public places in shorts.

Cultural Norms: The Arabic community is hospitable by nature. They are curious about the tourists. As a result, they extend tokens of hospitality to the tourists. A tourist will be considered rude if he or she declines an offer. It is quite normal for an Arab person to share a mug of coffee with a tourist. However, the tourists should be careful and always eat with their right hands.

The Arab community considers it an insult to their native culture, if the visitors eat with their left hand. They even need to hold the coffee mug with their right hands. The Arabs may even offer a small gift to a tourist. The visitors should accept the gift, so that they do not hurt the sentiments of the hosts. The natives of Saudi Arab encourage questions about their culture and country. However, it is best to steer clear of political or religious topics.

All the stores and commercial departments like cafes close five times every day, at the time of Namaz. The visitors need to plan the trip accordingly. They cannot follow their religious rituals in public. Most of the public places will have separate entrance and exit for men and women. The visitors need to follow the rules.

Affectionate gestures to the partner, in public are frowned upon. The visitors may follow their religious norms, but practising any religion other than Islam in public is strictly banned. The visitors are not even allowed to propagate their religion in social media, from Saudi Arabia. Many Christian visitors wear a cross as a bracelet. Many Hindu visitors wear earrings or necklaces carrying the symbol of “Om.” They need to take such religious ornaments off, when they visit Saudi Arabia. Otherwise, the natives may interpret such ornaments as preaching their own religion.

Social norms: The tourists must remove their shoes at the entrance, when they are invited to a typical Saudi home. The concept is that shoes defile the house. Hence. they are best left outside the house. There is no danger of the shoes getting stolen because theft is a criminal offence in all Middle-Eastern countries. A male tourist should never initiate a handshake with a female member of a Saudi Arabian family.

The tourists may be welcomed into a traditional sitting room, with cushions littering the floors. It signifies that the tourists need to sit on the floor. They are not allowed to buy, sell or consume alcohol within the country. It is mandatory to seek the permission of locals while photographing them. Otherwise, the natives may take offence.

Mind what you say: The visitors may be punished for passing derogatory comments against the king or prince of Saudi Arabia. Disrespecting the national flag of the country is also a punishable offence. A tourist may be subjected to a public flogging even for a slip of tongue about the country on any social media platform. In some cases, the visitors may be deported too.
Gender bias: Any homosexual relationship is banned in Saudi Arabia. Hence, visitors should be careful about their sexual preferences in the country.
Narcotics: Consumption or trading in drugs involves death penalty. A local form of alcohol named alcohol is strong, but illegal.
Personal identification: Visitors need to carry their identification proof with them as long as they are in Saudi Arab. The government reserves the authority to get the id proof checked at a moment’s notice. Lack of an identity proof may entail severe consequences.

Conclusion: The tourists may feel free to contact their local embassy for any confusion or trouble. However, the general perception is that the natives of Saudi Arab go to any extent to cooperate with tourists.

Everything You Need to Know About Green Card

Published on September 9, 2020

Business

The green card is a crucial factor in having a permanent residence in the U.S. It would allow people outside the U.S to gain high wages and live bountifully in the country and become a citizen after three to five years. If you are an immigrant who is at least 18 years old, you must bring a green card all the time. However, you don’t have the same duties and privileges as the natural-born or naturalized citizens of the United States.

You have distinct ways of exercising your freedom within which are ineligible to vote and hold public office. To know more, the stated facts below are further information about the green card.

Facts about Green Card

The green card is called a legitimate residence permit, but in appearance, they’re green in color; that is why they put the term green. This kind of card is also authorized government records, and they are called I-551 Form on paper. Click here to know more about this information.

Here are the seven essential facts you also want to understand:

The Green Card is a great privilege. It means that while you live in the United States, you must uphold a high standard of moral character and conduct. Moreover, it is withdrawable, and you, as the holder, can also be subject to deportation with certain offenses committed under the Immigration Law.
As a Card Holder, you should maintain a primary residence in the country.
It doesn’t allow you to travel in and out of the United States unlimitedly.
You have to submit a U.S. Income Tax as part of the conditions of being a Green Card Holder.
Undocumented immigrants are usually ineligible for a Green Card due to their immigration status. However, some undocumented immigrants may allow a Provisional Waiver of Inadmissibility to detach the disqualification if they can prove that being separated from their U.S. citizen spouse or parent will inflict severe difficulty.
Whether you are under 18 or mentally and physically impaired, you don’t need to sign your green card. The green card will appear, “Waived signature,” you are eligible for this exemption if you fulfill any of those requirements.
After ten years, Green Cards will expire. When you fail to reauthorize its validity, you may face legal consequences.

The methods of obtaining a green card often undergo updates and adjustments. It is best to determine first which kind of green card you want and then examine the criteria for that Form. The following stated below are the different types of Green Cards.

Different types of Green Cards

Employment-Based Cards

To have an employment-based green card, you must have an employer from the United States citizen who will support your application. This way goes through a phase of labor certification, though exceptions may occur in some cases.

The following lists the subcategories of employment and the forms of work falling under them:

EB-1 Priority Workers

People who have an excellent ability in the arts, sciences, education, business, and athletics.
Outstanding researchers or professors
Multinational Executives and Managers

EB 2 Professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities

Positions which require a Master’s degree
Those people with exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business.
Those qualified people who are physicians will practice medicine in the U.S., particularly those underserved areas.

EB-3 Skilled, unskilled and professional workers

Skilled workers that require a minimum of two years’ of practice and expertise
Unskilled workers need less than two years’ of preparation or knowledge.
Professional workers require a baccalaureate degree from a U.S. university or other schools outside the U.S equivalent of this degree.

EB 4 Special Workers

Employees who served the U.S. government abroad
Religious workers
Media Professionals

EB 5 Investors

Those non-U.S. nationals invested $ 1 million in a new U.S. company to build jobs for at least ten employees.

Family-Based Eligibility

If you have a family in the U.S, you can be sponsored by such relatives to have a permanent residency. Members of the family who may act as sponsors include parents, relatives, children, or spouses. If your sponsor is a holder of the card and not a resident, they must be the applicant’s child or spouse.

Moreover, widows and widowers married to a resident of the United States when the citizens died are also part of this classification. The spouses of living U.S. citizens and existing green card holders applying based on marriage, widows, and widowers need to show that their marriage was valid.

Marriage-Based Green Cards

If you marry a resident of the United States or a Holder of the card, you are eligible for permanent residency dependent on this marriage. It extends to both traditional couples and same-sex partnerships as same-sex marriage was acceptable in the lens of a civil right by the Supreme Court. This procedure includes Form I-130, Form I-485, or some variation after filing for a K-1 visa to enter the country and get married.

Diversity (DV) Lottery Green Card

The U.S. government provides 50,000 diversity visas per year to applicants from various nations that send limited numbers of immigrants to the United States. If you are interested in applying, you may begin in October of the year before the lottery and start searching for eligibility online in May following. If accepted, you are going through an interview process and showing your ability. It is necessary to act abruptly, because more applicants are qualified than visas, and issued after the lottery on a first-come, first-served basis.

To live and work in another country, engrossed with different cultures, and acquainted with new faces can be a great experience. Some people come to the U.S. usually for educational purposes, but many of them want to find a job. If you wish to apply for permanent work and get a green card, it will take much effort and a sponsor to be accepted. Fortunately, you can own the card through your outstanding ability, and it will surely help you achieve your desire to become a permanent resident.

Undeniably, the United States is a great country. There are myriad opportunities to offer for their people, and many of us would render the risk in exchange for a better living. The country is reliable for great opportunities, but it also has many tourist sites that you will surely love to visit. If you are keen enough to live in the United States permanently, you should make sure to know everything about Green Card and your rights and responsibilities as a holder.

Stretch Your Dollar By Retiring In Mexico: Here’s How

Published on September 9, 2020

Life

People are living much longer these days so retiring in your 60s means that your retirement savings may need to last a lot longer than in the past. Are you sure that you have enough money to live a comfortable lifestyle on your limited income?

This is a challenge many Americans are facing these days as the cost of living is rising all the time. Either you have to go very frugal and really tighten the belt, or you try to find a place where the cost of living is low.

While there are many places within the US where you can go and enjoy a lifestyle that suits you, if it is a low cost of living area, then chances are it isn’t as nice a place to live as you would want.

Which is why Mexico should be on your radar. You can retire there and enjoy excellent weather, delicious food and a laid back lifestyle for a fraction of what it would cost to do so in Florida, for example.

In this article, I will give you some of the things you need to know to be able to retire in Mexico.

1. Know your expenses

The cost of living is lower than in the US, but it does highly depend on where you plan to live, what your lifestyle is like and some other factors.

Do research to find the right area that is going to be cheap, safe and have the infrastructure that you need to live a good life there. You may find an area that is very economical, but the health care services are lacking or it isn’t safe to live.

There are websites that can give you the breakdown of the cost of everything you need in a particular city. This is a good starting point to understand if it is going to be within your budget.

Then, write down all of your expenses. Make sure you include health insurance as you will be paying out of pocket for health insurance in Mexico. You can shop around for the best prices on sites like Internationalinsurance.com, but it’s up to you to find a plan. Also, any expenses you will be bringing with you from abroad need to be accounted for. These items include subscriptions for things like Netflix or loans that are still open from the US like student loans.

2. Get a visa

Luckily, for retirees, Mexico makes it easy to come and live without having to jump through too many bureaucratic hoops. There are different visas, though, so you need to know the right one.

If you are planning to come down to do a sort of dry run to see if you would like living there, then a tourist visa is for you. It allows you to stay up to six months which is enough time to judge whether Mexico is actually the right fit or not.

If you do decide to live there, then you will need a temporary resident visa which lasts four years. Before you leave the US you should go to your local consulate to apply as there are some requirements to qualify. For instance, you will need to show a certain amount of income that comes from outside of Mexico. This can be income from a retirement fund or if you work remotely and have a steady income from that.

Once you have been there for four years, you can then apply for a permanent visa so you don’t have to keep reapplying for a temporary one every four years. Once again, you will need to show that you have a minimum amount of money coming in and a certain amount of savings to qualify. If you get accepted then you will have the right to work in Mexico so you can add to your income locally if you can find a job.

3. Learn the language

Though you technically can get by with only knowing English, your life will be much easier if you learn at least some basic Spanish. Relying on locals to speak English can cause some problems especially when you are dealing with paperwork. And hiring a translator can be costly.

If you can speak some Spanish then you can navigate much easier and even integrate in Mexico instead of only having ex-pat friends.

It can also be something that gives you something to do. Learning another language is something that keeps your mind sharp so you are less likely to have a deterioration of your facilities as you age. Learning keeps us young so there is an extra incentive to learn the language as a retirement challenge.

Get a side hustle

This is one that may be in a grey area when it comes to your visa. Make sure that you are allowed to work without any issues as some visas are strict about you not taking a job from a local.

Since you are now a local, you can do things like help tourists that are visiting the region. As you speak English and have insider knowledge, then you could find yourself doing well working a few hours per week leading some food tours or something similar.

If you are not allowed to do that, then you can always do it online. Start a Youtube channel that focuses on this area and have it link to your own website. Then sell e-books as guides for the area. Or, similarly, you can also charge for itineraries that can be downloaded and printed out by the visitor to your site.

Take advantage of living someplace that people want to visit and give them an experience like a local.

Conclusion

There are going to be challenges to retiring in a foreign country, but luckily, Mexico has a lot of American retirees so the path has already been forged for you. If you’re up to some challenges, the rewards are much greater than if you chose to stay back home.

What Is a Visa Type R?

Published on June 3, 2020June 3, 2020

Travel

Are you researching the different types of visas that you may be able to apply for in order to come to the United States? There are a variety of different paths that someone can take in order to get legal authorization to enter the country, remain for a set period of time, and perform specific tasks related to the nature of the visa. In some instances, this means that the bearer may be entitled to work, but in others, they may be only authorized to attend schooling or another specific duty.

Type R visas are awarded to religious workers that come to the United States. This type of visa falls into the category of non-immigrant visas. To qualify for it, you must establish that you meet the requirements that it calls for. The US embassy or consular office that receives your application will inform you if the USCIS has determined you are eligible to receive it.

As with all United States visa applications, the process is long and complicated. Fortunately, applying for a non-immigrant visa does come with less work than an immigrant visa, since you will not be requesting dispensation for a long-term stay in the country. For this visa, you will need to have the support and authorization of the religious organization that you work for in order to submit a final application.

Realistically, the best way to do this is to work with an immigration and visa lawyer in the United States who has been through this process. The good news is that there are law firms like the Florida Immigration Law Counsel who have years of experience helping all sorts of people apply for visas, asylum, green cards, and many other different tools that people can legally use in order to enter the United States. Be warned: you will quickly find this process to be overwhelming and exhausting when taking it on by yourself.

What Requirements Must You Meet To Qualify For a Type R Visa?

The following is a list of the basic requirements you must meet in order to qualify for an R visa, but keep in mind that each person is specific and there will likely be additional questions that you will need to answer before determining for certain that you are choosing then right visa. Consult with your immigration lawyer to make sure none of them have changed or been added to at the precise moment when you apply, as American immigration policy is continuously changing:

You must be a member of a religious denomination and perform a religious occupation for them
You must be coming to the United States to work at least 20 hours a week
The religious organization you are a member of must be a bona fide non-profit organization in the United States
The religious organization you belong to must be an authorized group tax exemption holder or a non-profit affiliated with a religious denomination
You must have been a member of your religious organization for at least two years before filing the petition

How Is a Religious Occupation Defined?

There are many different capacities in a religious organization that can qualify the participant as having a religious occupation. So many, in fact, that it is far easier for the United States government to list criteria instead of an extensive list of specific roles. The basic factors that must be present for you to initially be considered as having a religious occupation are as follows:

Be primarily related to a traditional religious function
Be defined as a religious occupation within your religious group
Be mostly related to carrying out the religious beliefs of the religious organization you belong to

As described above, the definition of duties doesn’t refer to any administrative positions, maintenance employees, or janitors. It also doesn’t apply to people that engage in fundraising activities or solicit donations, as this is often considered to be a volunteer position and not an occupation. Another group that would not qualify for this type of visa are those who engage in religious studies or training, although in this instance there may be an opportunity for a student visa. For more information check out fl-ilc.com,

What Process Must Be Followed To Receive an R Visa?

Your employer in the United States must file a petition for a non-immigrant worker through form I-129. The petition must provide the necessary evidence to prove the points outlined above. If the religious organization that is petitioning you believes that one of the above requirements places an undue burden on the organization’s ability to practice their religion, they may seek an exemption under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

Has the COVID-19 Pandemic Had An Impact On These Types Of Visas?

As you may have guessed, the process for applying for and receiving a Type R American Visa has been significantly impacted. As of March 20, 2020, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) declared the immediate suspension of all of these petitions because of the limitations imposed by the Coronavirus. Hopefully, this will only be a temporary suspension and they may resume as all government agencies reopen.

The situation is changing quickly in terms of the Coronavirus shutdowns and limitations in the United States, so working closely with an attorney is likely the best way that you can make sure that you are up to date on the newest policies and limitations.

Are You Looking To Apply For a Visa Type R?

The process required to secure a type R visa for you or a member of your religious organization carries definite difficulties that should not be tackled by someone with no legal experience. Having the support of a knowledgeable immigration lawyer will certainly lift some of the worries off your shoulders and point you towards the path you need to follow to get the R visa you desire.

As with all legal processes in the United States, prepare to deal with a lot of administrative work in order to ensure that your paperwork makes it through the bureaucracy and is returned in a timely manner (hopefully with approval). If the religious organization that you work with does not have a lawyer on retainer in order to help people like yourself with this process, we highly recommend finding someone to take your case today.

What to know when Moving to Qatar?

Published on April 2, 2020

Travel

Being the richest country in the world, Qatar is very appealing to expats from around the globe. With excellent living conditions and endless opportunities, it is no wonder so many people want to move there and provide a better life for their families. The stability the country offers is another appealing factor. The luxury and the magnificent architecture, high-quality healthcare, clean streets, and the possibility to prosper attract thousands of expats every year who come and work in amazing Qatar. However, before you go, you should be familiar with the basic rules of functioning and prepare yourself for all the requirements to be able to get a job and move to Qatar. Here are some things you should know about.

Visa Requirements

When it comes to visa requirements, your status will largely depend on the country you are coming from. Citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council do not need a visa to enter Qatar. These are as follows:

United Arab Emirates
Saudi Arabia
Oman
Kuwait
Bahrain

Citizens from the following countries do not need a visa for a stay shorter than 90 days:

Citizens of the European Union
Antigua and Barbuda
Argentina
Armenia
Bahamas
Brazil
Dominican Republic
Iceland
Liechtenstein
Malaysia
Norway
Russia
Serbia
Seychelles
Switzerland
Turkey
Ukraine

Expats coming from some countries do not need a visa for a stay shorter than 30 days, while others can obtain the visa once they enter Qatar. The best thing is to check your visa status before making any arrangements.

How to find work

There are a few ways to find a job in Qatar. The most popular method first is by getting a good reference. If some of your family members or friends are already working in Qatar, you can ask them to refer you to their boss because in most cases, employers ask their employees for referrals before they advertise a position. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you will get the job automatically, you will still need to pass the interview and meet the requirements when it comes to skills, education, and experience. However, in this case, it will be much easier for you to apply for the best jobs that are not publicly announced.

The other way is by applying for jobs on job portals. Many companies seek employees this way and in most cases, there is no fee to pay. However, you must be aware of potential scams. For example, be careful when applying to jobs for companies that you have never heard of. Make sure you first do your research about the company you plan to apply to. The reviews will tell you a lot about the overall reputation of the company and the previous experiences that the employees had with them.

Based on the reviews you can easily conclude which company can be trusted. Doing research online will make the whole process easier. Make sure you create an impeccable CV and include all the relevant information. Also, do your best to create a great cover letter that won’t be generic. Proofread both your CV and cover letter a few times before submitting it to make sure there are no grammatical errors or typos. Once you pass the application process, the employer will pay for the visa and travel expenses in case they want to hire you.

Healthcare

Healthcare in Qatar is known for offering quality care for all patients. The fact that it is among the top 5 healthcare systems in the world demonstrates the quality of service you can expect. Expats are eligible for healthcare in Qatar. The only thing you need to do to start using it is to apply for a health card; besides having a residence permit and a valid ID. You should know that most companies offer health insurance and include it in the employment package.

However, before you check health insurance off your to-do list, you must first check with your employer that you are covered with everything you will need. If not, you will need to arrange this. The health of children is a prime concern in Qatar and all clinics and hospitals provide the essential children’s healthcare services. For more information, visit Expatica where you will find all the crucial information you need.

Where to live

Some of the most popular expat neighborhoods in Qatar are Al Waab, Madinat Khalifa, Al Sadd, Abu Hamour, West Bay, The Pearl, and Al Wakrah. Each of these neighborhoods has something that attracts expats. People that move to Qatar soon realize that everything is directed towards convenience for the family, so schools and kindergartens are close by. Of course, one of the main factors when it comes to the neighborhood and a place to stay is the budget you have and the number of family members you will be living with. Also, it will largely depend on the location of the company you will work for.

The weather

The weather is very hot in Qatar and nothing can prepare you for this heat. People who come to live in Qatar find it difficult to adjust because the temperature can rise to 50 degrees Celsius. In fact, it is probably the hardest thing to get used to. However, every building has air conditioning which makes the temperature more bearable. During fall and winter, the temperature drops slightly which makes it more pleasant. One thing that cannot be avoided, however, is sand. It is everywhere and you must be prepared to have it even in your home because sandstorms are frequent and battling the sand is practically endless.

Once you go to Qatar, you will notice that the culture is progressive and modernized, but still traditional in many ways. Considering that the dominant population is Muslim, dressing modestly is crucial. Most men wear white or black thobes, while women’s clothing is predominantly black and abayas can be plain or decorated with Swarovski crystals. Women who come from other countries are expected to cover their skin and dress modestly, too.

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