Uruguay Country Guide
Your Complete Guide to Moving, Living & Working in Uruguay

Important: This guide provides essential relocation information for individuals and families moving to Uruguay. Known for its political stability, strong institutions, modern social policies and high quality of life, Uruguay is a popular choice for those seeking a safe, relaxed environment in South America. Visa rules and residency requirements can change — always check the latest information from official Uruguayan and Canadian government sources.

Home To Home Relocations supports clients relocating to Uruguay from Canada and worldwide, offering professional export packing, ocean and air freight, customs coordination and final delivery to key destinations including Montevideo, Punta del Este, Maldonado, Colonia del Sacramento, Salto and Paysandú.

1. Before You Move to Uruguay

1.1 Visa Types & Residency Options

Uruguay offers a range of residency and visa options for newcomers. Common categories include:

Temporary Residence – for employment, study, family ties or specific activities
Permanent Residence – for long-term residents who meet specific criteria
Work-related residence – linked to a local job offer or contract
Family-based residence – for spouses, partners and dependants of residents
Retiree / independent income paths – for those with stable income from abroad
Visitor/tourist entry – for short stays without employment

Residency applications are processed through Uruguay’s National Department of Migration (Dirección Nacional de Migración) and related government portals.

Tip: Many applicants begin their residency process online via Uruguay’s official government platform (GUB.UY) and then complete the procedure in person after arrival.

1.2 Working in Uruguay

Uruguay’s economy is service-oriented and relatively diversified. Key sectors include:

Banking, finance and professional services
Logistics, warehousing and port services (Montevideo is a regional hub)
Information technology, software and fintech
Agriculture, livestock and food exports
Forestry and renewable energy
Tourism and hospitality, especially coastal resorts
Education and language services

1.3 Housing & Accommodation

Most expatriates settle in Montevideo or along the coast. Popular areas include:

Montevideo: Pocitos, Punta Carretas, Carrasco, Parque Rodó, Centro/Ciudad Vieja
Punta del Este & Maldonado: Beachfront living and second homes
Colonia del Sacramento: Historic town with growing expat community

Typical rental requirements:

One to two months’ rent as a security deposit
Proof of income or work contract
Identification (passport, and later local ID when available)
Lease agreements usually in Spanish

1.4 Banking & Finances

Currency: Uruguayan Peso (UYU). Uruguay has a well-regarded banking system. To open a bank account, foreigners are often asked for:

Passport and immigration/residency documentation
Local tax or identification number, when applicable
Proof of address in Uruguay
Evidence of income or employment for certain products

1.5 Healthcare & Insurance

Uruguay has a strong healthcare system with both public and private coverage:

National Integrated Health System (SNIS) with public providers
Private “mutualista” plans and private hospitals
International and local private health insurance options

Important: Many expatriates join a private “mutualista” or take out private health insurance to access a wide network of clinics and hospitals with shorter wait times.

1.6 Key Documents to Prepare Before Moving

Passport with sufficient validity
Birth and marriage certificates (apostilled)
Recent criminal background checks (apostilled)
Employment contract or proof of income
Medical and vaccination records
International Driving Permit (useful for the first months)

2. Your First Weeks in Uruguay

2.1 Immigration Registration & Local ID

Newcomers staying long-term will complete residency steps with the National Department of Migration and eventually obtain a Uruguayan identity card (cédula de identidad), which is essential for many services.

2.2 Everyday Setup

Get a local SIM card (Antel, Movistar, Claro)
Open a bank account once you have the required ID documents
Finalize housing contracts and utilities (electricity, internet, water)
Enroll in a health plan (public or private)
Register children in local, bilingual or international schools

Tip: Many families choose neighbourhoods close to the Rambla (waterfront) in Montevideo for easy access to parks, cycling paths and outdoor activities.

3. Uruguay at a Glance

3.1 Geography & Regions

Uruguay is a small, compact country located between Argentina and Brazil, with:

Southern coastal zone: Montevideo, Canelones, Maldonado, Rocha
Western river region: Colonia, Paysandú, Salto along the Río de la Plata and Uruguay River
Interior: Agricultural and ranching areas

3.2 Politics & Economy

Uruguay is a stable democracy with a strong rule of law and transparent institutions. Key economic sectors include:

Services, finance and logistics
Agriculture, livestock and dairy
Forestry and pulp production
Renewable energy (notably wind and solar)
Information technology and startups
Tourism and hospitality

3.3 Climate & Weather

Uruguay has a temperate climate with four seasons:

Mild winters (can be damp and windy, especially on the coast)
Warm to hot summers, popular for beach tourism
Moderate rainfall distributed throughout the year

4. Why Many Newcomers Choose Uruguay

Stable political and social environment
High levels of safety and personal freedom
Modern infrastructure and reliable public services
Relaxed coastal lifestyle with outdoor activities
Access to good healthcare and education
Strategic location between Argentina and Brazil

5. Housing, Cost of Living & Daily Life

Uruguay’s cost of living is moderate by South American standards. Montevideo and Punta del Este are the most expensive areas, while smaller cities and inland towns are more affordable.

Typical monthly expenses include:

Rent or mortgage costs
Utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet)
Groceries and dining (imported goods can be more expensive)
Public transport or vehicle costs
Healthcare and insurance premiums
School fees (for private or international schools)

Tip: Social life often revolves around the “mate” culture (sharing yerba mate), the Rambla, football matches and weekend trips to the coast or countryside.

6. Transportation & Getting Around

6.1 Public Transport

Transport options include:

City buses within Montevideo and other urban areas
Intercity bus networks connecting all major towns
Taxis and app-based ride services in larger cities

6.2 Driving in Uruguay

Uruguay drives on the right-hand side. Roads are generally in good condition in and around major cities and along main routes. Foreign driver’s licences are accepted for a period, after which some residents may choose to obtain a local licence.

6.3 Domestic & International Travel

Uruguay’s main international gateway is Carrasco International Airport in Montevideo, with additional regional airports and frequent ferry connections between Montevideo/Colonia and Buenos Aires.

7. Culture, Lifestyle & Places to Visit

7.1 Everyday Culture

Spanish is the official language; some residents also speak Portuguese near the Brazilian border.
Uruguayans value family, community and a balanced work–life rhythm.
Food culture features asado (barbecue), empanadas, seafood and Italian influences.
Football is a major part of national identity.

7.2 Popular Cities & Attractions

Montevideo: Rambla waterfront, Ciudad Vieja, markets and cultural life
Punta del Este: Beach resorts, marinas and nightlife
Colonia del Sacramento: UNESCO-listed historic quarter
Rocha Coast: More rustic beaches and eco-tourism
Inland estancias: Ranch stays and rural experiences

Uruguay Country GuideYour Complete Guide to Moving, Living & Working in Uruguay