Moving from Seattle to the Caribbean in 2020

Moving to the Caribbean sounds like a dream until one tries to do it. Or at least begins the research. It would make perfect sense if someone from Seattle, in the North Pacific, would want to move to the sunny and warm Southeast. But relocation to this region even from the U.S. mainland is not simple and fast, especially in 2020. While wishful thinking alone is not enough, every big step begins with a dream. Complemented with thorough analysis, organization, and considerable savings, everything is possible. The article ahead will provide much-needed insight into the matter to all aspiring Caribbeans.

You’re moving to the Caribbean – but where exactly?

The Caribbean region stretches over 1 million square miles and encompasses over 700 islands, just if you have wondered how big the area is. Knowing where you wish to live is the first and foremost point to consider. Variety and diversity make this region unique and so magically attractive and at the same time difficult to explore in a short while.

Constituent kingdoms, republics, constitutional monarchies, territories, all organized into sovereign states or dependencies, have different rules and policies. Laws considering immigration, residency, work permits, and real estate will be one of the eliminating factors in the search.

Geography and climate, languages spoken in the area, and an acceptable level of development are the other factors. And these are only a few of the reasons why buying your first home in the Caribbean needs to be an educated decision. There is a vast number of locations in the region that would be a perfect choice for an enthusiastic Seattle transplant, a choice depending on the preferences and pocket size.

What does it mean to move overseas, long-distance, in 2020?

Half of 2020 has already passed and we’re still not sure how it’s going to continue. Relocation within a single city is not easy, let alone going through an overseas move in this uncertain time. Those who are determined to conduct a long-distance relocation this year need to start their preparation well in advance. And be ready for delays in almost every phase of the process. This means that the preparations should have already started.

The only safe way to transport belongings overseas is to hire a reputable experienced and licensed moving company. They will handle the necessary paperwork and remind you of things you might not have considered. This specifically relates to shipping terms and conditions. Numerous important decisions rely on the possibility to ship something to the Caribbean. Local laws may affect the import of cars and involve quarantine for pets.

Is moving to and living in the Caribbean affordable?

Affordability greatly depends on the country. GDP per capita of the countries in the Caribbean varies greatly, from ~800 USD in Haiti to ~80 thousand USD in the Cayman Islands, and everything in between. The differences are most evident in the state of infrastructure, job availability, real estate prices, and annual income disparity.

The best sources of reliable information necessary for accurate budgeting are local government websites and real estate agencies. Finding a place to live involves looking for the right property. Whether you decide to rent or buy real estate, contact a licensed local real estate agent. They have sufficient knowledge of the property markets in the Caribbean to help you out in your search. It also means that you would need to travel to the desired location and see the properties for yourself. You should account for the travel and lodging expenses, at least for a month or two.

Contacting government institutions directly will also give you an insight into the amount of all the necessary (and sometimes upfront) fees and real estate investment amounts, both required to achieve residency. If you’re moving with a family, you would need to prove that you can support the dependants.

Finally, there is a matter of the moving budget. As you’re moving from Seattle, the best option is to hire Seattle movers such as hansenbros.com who can take care of the relocation from the first step. Before you do hire your movers, take a very good look at your belongings and decide what is worth relocating. Bear in mind that the price of the move depends on the distance, amount, and weight of your belongings (among other things) and that you’re moving to the Caribbean, across the continent and overseas. Also, you would have to include the price of plane tickets for you and your family members into your budget.

A few additional thoughts

All summed up, moving successfully from Seattle to the Caribbean is based on several important premises. Most importantly, you have 

• conducted thorough online research first
• traveled and lived in the desired location in the Caribbean long enough to change your perspective from tourist’s to resident’s
• created and triple-checked your budget, accounting for possible delays
• hired only licensed, reputable, experienced, and local, movers, real estate agents, and other professionals to assist you in the process of relocation.

Bear in mind that each country in the Caribbean has its own rules and regulation but they still have one thing in common. Their strict policies on immigration serve to protect their residents and expect you to contribute to the local community. If not by your profession which is in high demand, then with your financial investments in property.

Well paid jobs are difficult to find, especially in the poorer countries, where locals have an advantage over foreigners. Ideally, you’d be on a fixed income with considerable savings, enough to ensure you a Certificate of Permanent Residence for Persons of Independent Means, on the Caymans, or its counterpart in other locations.

If you’re intent on moving, the best things you can do for yourself and your family is to play it safe in 2020. Plan for the worst and hope for the best!