Paying Taxes from Abroad

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Paying Taxes from Abroad

November 26th, 2008 | Guatemala - Relocation | No Comments »

One of the biggest topics of discussion, and sometimes heated debate, among expats is how to handle taxes. Many would like to move out of the United States and just forget about any tax responsibilities they may have. The IRS, however, feels a little differently about the subject.

As an expat living abroad in several countries for over 5 years now, and traveling for many more prior to that, I am proud to say that I file my taxes yearly. A wise man once said, “Pay Caesar’s things to Caesar,” and I have found that a good motto to live by.

Does that mean you should expect to get hit hard by taxes? Not necessarily. Many foreigners Read more

Guatemalan Labor Laws and Worker's Rights

October 31st, 2008 | Guatemala - Business, Guatemala - Relocation | No Comments »

As a foreigner employee a team of Guatemalan workers to care for your house, there are important things you need to know about Guatemalan workers rights.

Work Week: The work week is 5 ½ days longs. Eight hours Monday to Friday and a half day on Saturday; 44 hours total.
Minimum wage: Domestic employees are not subject to prevailing wage regulations, however a minimum of $100/month should be paid, plus benefits.
Paid Holidays (Feriados): Jan 1; Thursday, Friday & Saturday of Easter Week; May 1 (Labor Day); June 30 (Army Day and anniversary of 1871 revolution); September 15 (Independence Day); October 20 (anniversary of 1944 revolution); November 1 (All Saints Day); December 25; December 24 and 31 (half day).

Guatemala is the Place to Escape the United States Recession

October 8th, 2008 | Guatemala - Business, Guatemala - Relocation, The Best of Guatemala | No Comments »

As the US economy continues to decline Americans are being forced to change the way they handle their dollars as they slide in value against the British pound and the Euro. As businesses buckle down to face the brunt of a world recession many are left wondering how the US is going to weather the storm and if, when the dark clouds of decline finally rise, the economy will be able to recover.

Many businesses have already taken steps to recession-proof themselves by trying to draw in foreign sales. In recent article from Business Week it was stated that “the strongest U.S. companies may be the ones with the biggest footprint abroad.” By having their fingers in multiple Read more

Buying Real Estate in Guatemala

August 21st, 2008 | Guatemala - Business, Guatemala - News, Guatemala - Relocation, Guatemala - Travel Tips | 1 Comment »

Looking for real estate in Guatemala? Let’s face it, with prices being as low as $50 per square foot to build your custom home, why wouldn’t you think about settling in this beautiful Central American country?

Currently Guatemala is seeing its urban areas built up by apartment complexes and condos that are perfect for a vacation home or a place to retire. If you want to go with the known company you can check out the Guatemalan division of RE/MAX to help you with your real estate needs.

Other websites where you can browse Guatemalan real estate include RealEstateGuat.com and Casa Nova Real Estate.

No doubt you’ll be happy with Read more

Residency in Guatemala

August 5th, 2008 | Guatemala - Relocation, Guatemala - Travel Tips | No Comments »

Relocation to Guatemala can be done in a number of ways. If you only plan to spend the winter months in Guatemala, then you can probably do so with a simple tourist visa. Upon entrance to Guatemala you are given a 90 day tourist visa, which can be renewed once, for a total period of 180 days.

For those who are looking at doing business in Guatemala, or living there year round, it is much more practical to get some form of residency. Temporary residence is offered for one year and is renewable, while permanent residence covers five years and is renewable. Any offshore income is not taxed by Guatemala, so getting your residency doesn’t have any negative Read more