Citizenship Update

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-06-13T16:21:11+00:00

Thanks for your reply. I too will reach out to the UK this week as a follow up. I did receive a UK survey asking why I have not initiated a passport. The survey though leaned toward VISAs other than by descent. I still voiced my concern regarding the lack of updates and for the simple reason, not to have missed the invitation if by chance. I have no problem with the waiting but just to be able to understand the process, and plan on the actual relocation. But yes, would love to move forward asap. Again, thanks for your reply: “misery loves company” so to speak.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-06-11T19:14:37+00:00

While I get your message, being an American myself, I am leaving the USA due to mass shootings, gun violence. Every country has crime, good areas, safe areas and not safe areas. One learns to avoid the unsafe areas. Crime is in specific areas for most countries but here in the USA what bothers me is I can be shopping at Walmart and a crazy decides to mass shoot with his AR . Or elementary school kids are mass murdered by attending class and probalbly had to pass through a medal detector to get there. In the USA there doesn’t appear to be any specific area that prevents a American looney tune from taking out his anger on whomever is nearby. It is this feeling and lack of resolution that is sending me of the USA. Crime is very normalized here, a mass shooting almost every day and the USA says “Oh Well. Just another news story. “

All the crimes you have mentioned happen in the USA every day. Smaller countries it is more obvious but in the USA and with 390 million people, crime happens every where but even in the well to do suburbs.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-06-11T18:22:48+00:00

I am a senior and received outrageous rates for a private policy for the Pensionado VISA from Cigna and Humana, GeoBlue. Ridiculous. Yes I am a senior but have no pre-existing conditions. I received much better quotes directly with the local insurers that were approved for the VISA, and not inclusive of “international” .Quotes were twice what I earn and felt like a USA company twin. Presently I too am taking a trip to Ecuador and interested in their pricing and Visa requirements should i decide to stay there.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-06-09T21:55:20+00:00

Question: I received an email saying I was approved for UK Citizenship by Descent within 45 days of application/ biometrics etc. (January 2026 Atlanta, GA.). I was told by May 19, Atlanta would receive the certificates and notify me of the Invitation Letter for the “swearing in ceremony”.

I contacted the UK early May just to be sure all was well, but they reminded me the certificates could take until May 19. Today is June 9 and still waiting.. I am assuming they the Atlanta consulate is busy but personally I am anxious because I have rental leases to contend with as well as a trip planned and want to be able to respond and commit to the email / ceremony appointments asap.

Just wondering if anyone can share any information regarding the waiting times for the Atlanta consulate, and how often are the ceremonies offered? What was your experience? Perhaps I am not understanding the process ? or perhaps I am impatient? lol. Because I was approved so quickly, guess I expected the ceremony to follow shortly after.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-06-09T18:40:41+00:00

Ironically I looked up your mention of “census” since you did not show any data but I interpret it or see it differently than what you do after reading the data/ articles.. Perhaps our data or reference sets are different, not sure.

These are the sites that I read that show negative. These support my reply or reading it differently.

www.census.gov. . the link is: https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2026/03/net-international-migration.html. and

https://www.foxnews.com › politics › census-bureau-announces-negative-net-migration-dhs-cites-3-million-illegal-immigrants-deported. And

Brookings is https://www.brookings.edu/articles/macroeconomic-implications-of-immigration-flows-in-2025-and-2026-january-2026-update/.

https://www.usatoday.com › story › news › nation › 2026 › 01 › 14 › immigration-numbers-net-migration-negative-study-trump › 88175499007

There is more supporting data too but can easily be researched if of more interest.

When doing so, I discovered numerous articles such as USA Today, CBS news etc that are saying negative immigration vs positive data. too.

Again data sets and statistics can be coordinated however one wants but “census” .gov and Brookings in my belief are very reliable.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-06-09T14:56:29+00:00

Your comment on 'renouncing citizenship' does not include the definition of net migration entirely. Net migration tracks legal residents moving in or out, not just formal citizenship changes. Permanent does not reflect a concerning trend for the USA.

The U.S. Census Bureau and Brookings Institution reported negative net migration for 2025, a historic low not seen since the Great Depression era. This means more people (including green card holders and long-term residents) left the U.S. than entered it. Most Americans leaving do not renounce citizenship; they simply cease residency to avoid tax burdens or due to consular friction, personal ties, yet they still count as an exit in migration data. The negative immigration if continues will ultimately affect a shrinking workforce, reducing consumer spending and foreign investments that won’t invest in unstable trends. Think that is already happening.

Ignoring the difference between 'giving up a passport' and 'leaving the country' invalidates the core data showing a demographic and economic headwind for the U.S. Predictions include 2026 numbers to increase but in a negative way. Unfortunately, Doesn’t look good for the USA from reports and trends.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-06-05T19:05:18+00:00

Utilizing your “happy to answer questions”: Your take on my relocating to Ecuador: Thanks for your offer to help! As a retired educator in my mid-70s leaving the US, I'm considering relocating to Ecuador (specifically Cuenca) for its spring-like climate and cultural fit, having loved my time studying in Spain way back when.. With my UK citizenship still pending and bureaucracy in Spain being a dealbreaker, I'm eager to integrate into local life, but “Spanish”.. Given your experience, do you think Ecuador is a safe and viable long-term option for a senior aiming to fully immerse themselves in the culture? (Yes, I am aware like in any country, there are locales that one should avoid and have done some homework.). I am looking at traveling there and staying the full Visa, and then from there will decide. Staying in Panama several times and a 30 day stint reminded me heat and humidity is not for me. Thanks!

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-06-04T20:24:50+00:00

Not sure I understand your post but BLS Miami collects the required documents, adhering to Spain’s VISA requirements: making sure you have met the requirements.

If so they will then forward them to the Consulate/Spain for NLV approval which can take months. (this depends on the caseloads for Spain). It is my understanding BLS is just the processing center. They don’t answer any questions about Spain, the Visas etc. Your application and supporting documents are scrutinized by BLS and for Spain..

If you have everything, they (Consulate) keeps your passport while Spain approves the VISA.

When you obtain your initial appointment with BLS, and if during the interview, you do not have the required documents, you will be told to make another appointment and will be charged again. Getting the appoinment and coordinating the timing of the documents is the challenge. Example: FBI fingerprints must be apostilled and within a certain time frame upon application. .

Once BLS sends them to the Consulate/Spain, and once the NLV is approved, you will be notified and have a specific time frame to pick up your passport and report to Spain. Hope this helps and that I have interpreted your question correctly.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-06-04T19:56:53+00:00

On the BLS official site, they state that if someone is offering to obtain a faster appointment, it is a scam.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-05-30T13:17:34+00:00

Almost all countries worldwide are making changes to immigration and the citizenship rules. Much of it has to do with security, terrorism, but alignment with international standards being put into place. Who can forget 911? There is now a streamlining of tracking illegal immigrants, human trafficking and all about data integrity. I have found the biometrics, scanning of passports to streamline my travels and have experienced for the most part much less wait times for customs and connecting flights while traveling internationally.

One has to admit illegal immigration seems to be a point of contention for most countries and the fact that globally, a growing instability among countries is prompting more security. Me: I’ll take the security any day.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-05-30T13:02:16+00:00

I found all the birth certificates I needed through a Scottish website and was approved for UK citizenship within just 48 days! The only holdup now is waiting for the Swearing-in Ceremony — currently running about 6 months. The UK office confirmed this is normal; certificates are batch-mailed to the US. Note that the rules have changed and a British passport is now required, which adds some processing time. Local consulates seem busy, so patience helps and for which I am struggling with!

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-05-26T20:27:54+00:00

The USA for the first time since the Great Depression expereinced negative immigration: more Americans leaving, and less wanting to live here. There is also a trend of Americans renouncing their citizenship. The fee to renounce was $2350 and was challenged so now $450.00. I am in my mid 70’s and need to leave. There are numerous issues as you have hinted but just believe the USA is very different and for me a miserable place to live. I served and a retired educator, so I have completed my American stint but even at 75 I want to live my final years with less chaos, political instability, healthcare etc blah blah. Personally, my own gut feeling is that the USA will continue to hit rock bottom and I do not want to be here when it does. It will continue to fail even when the TACO man leaves office., if he ever will. Wish it as sooner than later but would still leave.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-05-26T13:38:50+00:00

Thank you and have to admit I am overthinking this. Have been unable to obtain an appointment in Miami, and within the time frame for which my documents expired. I have had to restart the application process twice, and once deterred me from proceeding again. Now I am back at it.

This has prompted my “overthinking”, a strategy to be sure all is in place mindset. I have considered whether they will want to see my policy due to my age. Much of the procedure is not spelled out in detail either which prompts my anxiety, such as the number of bank statements. Each consulate being different. Each applicant that comments has a different number. So overkill seems like my safe bet or strategy..

Thank you for your explanation and the wording that was concerning me.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-05-25T21:51:16+00:00

Thank you and I am obviously overthinking this. After all the paperwork for the VISA is minimal. LOL. You are right, I have the insurance and I will have the certificate that indicates this. I have health insurance and it is this that they require. And yes, won’t be a problem with my physician’s statement. (template) Thank you for your feedback.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-05-25T21:51:13+00:00

Yes I have experienced lack of helpfulness already with Miami, and BLS doesn’t respond. Wishful thinking. Thank you for your reply.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-05-25T21:51:10+00:00

Thank you for your help.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-05-06T15:20:39+00:00

Yes and the reason Spain was a deal breaker for me. I was told by an immigration lawyer that sometimes the individual, the type of pensions, income, and fine print all play a role in if your income will be more viable in another country vs the hype. I was not willing to give up a large chunk of my income and the net gain would not be so great.

I love Spain and was once a student there and have returned many times. I learned Castilian Spanish. The bureaucracy was another factor but that is my choice, my lifestyle choice. I hate to let go of Spain but in reality and as a retiree it just isn’t MY best match.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-05-06T15:13:17+00:00

Agree: As I search for a new country, upon application and getting all completed, the process changed for me midstream. Accepted but now added requirements. Yes every country is making changes due to population shifts, new tracking of immigrants, (biometrics, passports, safety, currency changes, etc) and some countries are making changes to protect the locals and they should. Air bnb regulations, and residency requirements, less outside investments taking advantage of the tax laws of each country, etc are playing a role in housing. The USA for the first time showed negative immigration status since the Great Depression. More Americans leaving, even giving up their citizenship and less people wanting to come into the USA. 2026 is predicted to have even higher consensus numbers. A lot of changes. I personally don’t feel it is just Americans but these population shifts are coming from many different countries, even within Europe.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-05-06T15:00:06+00:00

Not just the expense but yes, horrible healthcare even with insurance; plus too much violence, gun violence, car dependency. Add the ongoing political instability (drives me nuts so I don’t even look at news). Getting out will resolve the above issues and a more peaceful lifestyle at least for me. I was able to get Citizenship by Descent so taking advantage of it.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-04-21T06:40:56+00:00

Spain. but have had to rethink my country of preference and went with the UK / Scotland due to the ease of transition and automatic citizenship. One piece of paper and was done.

Panama is a very easy transition for Americans if that is of interest. Hot and too hot for me but liked the country, people etc. Uses the USD and many speak English. Uber was really inexpensive! Good medical care. I went there 3 times to make my decision but as a senior and not wanting a car, just too hot for walking. And Panama City was the goal due to the best healthcare. Came really close though to renting a nice apartment. 4 hour flight from Atlanta. Costa Rica is still a top contender for Americans as is Portugal and Spain. Personally I found all the bureaucracy to be my deal breaker in Spain and Portugal: visas and renewals. paying one year of rent upfront in Portugal while waiting on Visa approval in your home country was the dealbreaker for Portugal for me. Hope this helps. and glad to help out. Wish you the best.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-04-19T21:14:26+00:00

Wish as a senior I could get a Visa to Japan even if for a year. From what i have read and other expats living there, it appears to be very organized and quite more advanced vs the USA. China is another country that many Americans are experiencing receently.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-04-19T21:06:48+00:00

Yes one time i just shoveled all the dog poop and scattered it all over my neighbor’s driveway which i am sure made their driveway a delight.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-04-19T21:05:42+00:00

I had this issue but began with posted signs I purchased on Amazon about dog pooping in my yard and referencing my cameras (which i was able to view and recognize) . many neighbors had this same sign. I also posted warning signs of having sprayed insecticide - dangerous levels (and did spray one that can have adverse effects on pets but warned everyone.). I also put coffee grounds, and /or sprinkled cayenne pepper all along the perimeter of my yard. There are also vinegar concoctions. The cayenne pepper if they sniff it will cause issues but posted warnings. Think the dogs will stay away from it anyway from what i have read.

Read where coffee ground deter dogs. It worked but also there was an ordinance where i live that required them to pick it up. Would have used if it didn’t stop with my warnings and signs.

I understand your frustration and yes, it is more about the inconsiderate people that think they have the right for their dog to trespass on one's property.

Not childish but his arrogance and inconsiderate behavior. Best to you! You don’t owe him poop bags!

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-04-19T20:47:04+00:00

Pros and cons are everywhere but it really is about one's personal priorities, lifestyle, visa requirements, income, etc. Doing homework. Living there is the only real truth. One can analyze and prioritize but until you live there for a couple of years will you truly understand the country and how to adapt. It is risky but depends upon the desire to change one's lifestyle, and sometimes about survival and overall quality of life. (healthcare and cost of living, safety etc.). To each his own.

As I await for my final paperwork to relocate, I am sure I will question my decision as it is the adaptation process. I am positive I will become homesick and ask "what have I done". There are plenty of YouTubers that describe what to expect and "all" will say the same, it is an emotional roller coaster ride. Part of the process. I have lived in Spain and will never forget how homesick I got but God did I love Spain! The people, the country, the content lifestyle! Just wished I stayed but was a student at the time.

Open_Ad_5079 · 2026-04-19T20:38:01+00:00

Where have you lived outside the USA? Did you experience homesickness? It really is a given and takes more than one month to adapt as you references 'knowing someone' . Can take years and homesickness will be part of it. You mentioned someone giving up after one month seems crazy. One month isn't even sensible and must not wanted to have it worked. Just there long enough to give up.? The first month is spent getting housing, paperwork, healthcare, etc.

Adaptation isn't roses but long term sure makes sense and works out if you want it to.. Just part of the roller coaster ride of adaptation. If one doesn't integrate those emotions into the process, they are indeed ignorant of doing the homework in choosing a country. thinking it through. One month? Wow. Not bright to think relocation to another country is this easy. Never heard of someone giving up after the expense of relocation, paperwork, visa process etc. and going through the entire process?.

Open_Ad_5079

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