Moving to Uruguay in 2026: Temporary vs. Permanent Residency

Uruguay keeps showing up on lists of the easiest, most welcoming countries in South America to relocate to — stable, safe, and relatively straightforward on paper. The country's immigration authority updated its official residency guidance on July 29, 2026, so here's a plain-English breakdown of your two main options.

Temporary Residency

For foreigners settling in Uruguay for work, study, or another approved reason. It's valid for 6 months to 2 years and can be renewed — a good option if you want to live there before committing long-term.

Permanent Residency

For foreigners who intend to make Uruguay their permanent home. Current government fees:

• 557.30 UI for the general permanent residency application

• + 55.70 UI for the migratory certificate needed to get your cédula (Uruguay's national ID)

UI (Unidades Indexadas) is an inflation-adjusted unit Uruguay uses for official fees, so the dollar equivalent shifts over time — check the current conversion before you budget.

While You Wait

If you need to leave and re-enter Uruguay while your application is processing, the re-entry permit costs 225.60 UI.

One Extra Step for U.S.-Born Applicants

Official guidance specifically notes that applicants born in the U.S. can go to Interpol's office in Montevideo to get fingerprinted and request the FBI background check the application requires. It's worth scheduling early — this step tends to add time to the process.

Ready to see what's available? Browse Uruguay listings on KasaFinder →

Fees and requirements reflect Uruguay's official guidance as updated July 29, 2026, and are subject to change. This article is general information, not legal or immigration advice — confirm current requirements with Uruguay's Dirección Nacional de Migración or a licensed immigration attorney before starting your application.