In recent years Uruguay has developed a special attraction for people who hail from different countries. It isn't just seniors with retirement dreams who are making the move, but this new influx of residents includes families, graduate students and others who are choosing Uruguay as the place where they will put down new roots. What is it about Uruguay that is causing people to move to this small South American nation?

There are a number of positive features to consider that make Uruguay a very appealing choice. Here are some of the top reasons that the population of immigrants and expatriates continues to grow so rapidly.

Uruguay makes it easy for people to apply for residency. This feature alone is attractive to numerous individuals who do not wish to suffer through a prolonged and drawn out residency process. There are no unreasonable bureaucratic hoops to jump over and no uncertainty about the final decision. There is, of course, some necessary paperwork but other than this it is easy to establish residency.

Uruguay only has a $500 per month requirement for a new resident's income. This is a reasonable amount that most people can afford and will allow them to live a comfortable, if simple, lifestyle.

If you move to Uruguay and need to hire someone to help in your business or home you will find the cost of labor to be extremely affordable. The work ethic is very strong in this country and you will be delighted by the dependability, honesty and production from your new workers.

Unlike many other countries, Uruguay welcomes the purchase of real estate and other property by new residents. Some countries have a number of barriers that make it almost impossible for a foreign resident to purchase real estate which is offsetting to many who are looking for a new country in which to settle.

The Uruguay taxation system does not charge any taxes on international income which means that a foreign resident can enjoy the full benefit of any pension plans or income that originates from their native country.

People who wish to adopt a lifestyle that is simple and straightforward will appreciate the opportunity to do so in Uruguay. The pace is slower in most cities and there is a relaxing, unhurried atmosphere that lets you live in the moment and enjoy what you have.

Fresh foods are widely available in Uruguay at reasonable prices especially when you shop at the ferias, or street markets. The beef and poultry that the country produces do not contain high levels of chemicals, antibiotics and hormones. There are many varieties of fresh fruits that can be easily grown and Uruguay is known for having many bakeries where spectacular breads and pastries are prepared and sold daily.

The low rate for violent crimes and the stability of the government are additional features that are attracting new residents to the country.

There are some negative drawbacks that must also be considered if you are thinking about making the transition to become a resident of Uruguay.

The cheap cost of living in this country is debatable. While some things may cost less money than it does in other countries other items are more expensive which means that it all may balance out and you might not get the "low cost of living" bargain that you had hoped for.

The country of Uruguay is basically agricultural in nature which means that many goods must be imported and there are heavy import fees and taxes that are imposed. In addition to this you will be charged a 22% sales tax to purchase these imported goods. The result is much higher prices for common items such as clothes, electronics, appliances and household goods. Many people are startled to find that they are paying phenomenally high prices for needed items that are often of inferior quality.

While property may initially be purchased at lower prices compared to Europe or the US you need to remember that the homes in Uruguay are not generally up to the same quality or standards of either of these countries. Wiring, insulation, plumbing and roofing involves the use of lesser quality materials and they will develop problems in a shorter amount of time and have to be replace sooner than most people anticipate.