Moving to Uruguay

 Expats moving to Uruguay will discover a country blessed with soft rolling plains and low hills, as well as beautiful coastal areas made up of fertile lowlands. The second-smallest country in South America, Uruguay borders Argentina, Brazil and the South Atlantic Ocean.The country has a population of just under 3.5 million, most of whom live in the capital, Montevideo.

Uruguay’s high-income status and low poverty rates mean you won’t encounter some of the severe economic inequalities of its neighbouring Latin American countries. The country’s economy has also shown significant growth in recent years, which has increased job opportunities for both locals and expats.

Living in Uruguay as an expat

Although Spanish is the official national language of the country, Uruguayan Spanish has quite a few differences owing to the considerable influence of Italian immigrants over the years. Even expats who are able to speak Spanish may take a while to adjust to the dialect. Most Uruguayans understand English well enough, but don’t expect fluent conversations in every corner shop. Expats should attempt to learn at least some Spanish, particularly if planning to do business in Uruguay.

While some expats are able to secure work in Montevideo’s agricultural and construction sectors, plus aviation, most expats working in Uruguay are employed in the diplomatic or financial services. Coastal towns such as Punta del Este also offer employment opportunities in the services and tourism sectors, and a number of expats also move to Uruguay to teach English.

Despite ranking highly in South America in global peace indexes, street crimes are still common in Uruguay, particularly in Montevideo. That said, as long as expats keep a watchful eye on their valuables when walking or using public transport, they should be just fine.

Cost of living in Uruguay

Favourable tax laws and world-class healthcare, paired with genuine quality of life, have attracted many European and North American expats to Uruguay, particularly to the Punta del Este and Costa de Oro coasts.

Expats should budget carefully, though, as the cost of living in Uruguay is rising. Accommodation will likely be an expat’s biggest expense. The cost is largely dependent on where expats choose to settle in Uruguay – the capital city will naturally be the most expensive, while the other cities, rural areas, and suburbs will be more affordable.

Public transport is largely accessible and reasonably priced thanks to the country’s compact nature. Eating out will set expats back quite a bit, but fortunately, other entertainment activities are fairly cheap throughout the country.

Expat families and children

Uruguay has a highly regarded education system, with public schools offering free education from kindergarten to tertiary level. School is compulsory for students aged 6 to 14, and all classes are taught in Spanish. Expats generally prefer to send their children to one of a number of international schools, which are predominantly located in Montevideo.

Healthcare in Uruguay is of a high standard and reported to be among the best in Latin America. Everyone is entitled to medical care via the national healthcare system, including foreigners, but given the fact that private hospitals in Uruguay offer a highly affordable private hospital plan, known as a mutualista, most expats go this route.

Climate in Uruguay

Uruguay has a temperate climate, with mild and humid winters and hot summers. The climate is influenced by its location in the Southern Hemisphere, proximity to the South Atlantic Ocean, and the prevailing winds.

In the summer months of December to February, the temperatures can reach up to 86°F (30°C) in the daytime, and often stay warm at night. Humidity is also high during this period, particularly in coastal areas. Rainfall is scarce in the summer, although occasional thunderstorms may occur.

In the winter months of June to August, temperatures usually range from 41°F to 59°F (5°C to 15°C), with colder temperatures at night. Rainfall is more frequent during this season, particularly in the south of the country.

Expats moving to Uruguay who make an effort to learn the language and build a life in the country will find it a beautiful and hospitable home.

Fast facts

Population: 3.4 million

Capital city: Montevideo (also the largest city)

Other cities: Salto, Paysandú, Las Piedras, Rivera

Neighbouring countries: Argentina borders Uruguay to the west of the country. Brazil borders Uruguay to the north and east.

Geography: Uruguay features gently rolling plains broken by low plateaus and fertile coastal lowlands. The coastline is characterised by beaches and rocky headlands, with swamps and lagoons dotting the eastern coast. Three river systems drain the land: westward to the Río Uruguay, eastward to the Atlantic, and south to the Río de la Plata.

Political system: Presidential republic

Major religions: Christianity (Catholicism)

Main language: Spanish (official). Most Uruguayans understand English but may not speak it fluently.

Money: The Uruguayan Peso (UYU) is divided into 100 centésimos. Foreign nationals can typically open a bank account within one day with an identity card, local address, and reference letter. Non-resident account fees can be quite high.

Tipping: Restaurant tipping is customary at around 10 percent for good service. Hotel porters expect about 20 pesos. Taxi drivers are not typically tipped.

Time: GMT-3 throughout the year

Electricity: 220 volts, 50 Hz

Internet domain: .uy

International dialling code: +598

Emergency contacts: 911 (Police), 105 (Ambulance), 104 (Fire)

Transport and driving: Cars drive on the right-hand side of the road. Public transport in Montevideo includes some modern electric buses. The system is efficient and reasonably priced.