How to Move to Roatan – The 7th Heaven Properties Guide
There’s nothing better in life than loving where you live. If sun, sea, sand and some of the best diving and snorkeling in the Caribbean are what you look for in a destination, look no further than the island of Roatan. With its tropical climate, pristine beaches and reefs teeming with all kinds of colorful marine life, this idyllic tropical island in the Bay Islands off the coast of Honduras is the stuff dreams are made of. Wondering how you can adopt this paradise as your new home and make a move to Roatan?
There are many things to consider when planning a permanent move abroad and this tiny island in the Bay Islands is no exception. Here, we will take you through the practicalities of moving to Roatan, as well as covering some of the island’s highlights. From the best areas to live to how to apply for residency, this is how to realize the dream.
Find out how to move to Roatan in our relocation guide
Contents
Relocating – Is Roatan a Good Place to Live?
Visas & Residency – Can I Move to Roatan?
Finding a Place to Live in Roatan – Where are the Best Places to Buy Property?
Find Out More About Moving to Roatan
Relocating – Is Roatan a Good Place to Live?
If you’re talking about practicalities, there are a lot of positive reasons for choosing to become resident in Roatan. For one, the cost of living is among the lowest in the world. If you’re moving from a more costly place, which is likely, your savings are bound to go a lot further here. The same applies to real estate too. Property prices compare very favorably to other destinations in the Caribbean. And what can you get for your money? Well, on Roatan a home offering everything you need to enjoy the very best of laid back island living, postcard-perfect views and proximity to the beach is a real possibility.
However, it is not just the fact that money goes further here. The lifestyle in Roatan is as relaxing as the setting is blissful. That’s not to say that nothing is going on though. Adventure awaits all over the island, from the bars, restaurants and cafes of West End to the magnificent beaches and colorful reefs. Whatever your passion or age, you are sure to find activities to enjoy and a like minded community of people among the large international community. Alternatively, if relaxation is the order of the day, the island offers a plentiful choice of sandy beaches to stretch out on and beautiful walking trails to explore.
Regarding considerations such as healthcare, we would recommend taking up private health insurance before you make your move. There are several hospitals and medical clinics on the island, and, with private medical insurance, you would have access to the best care available whether for routine care or even medical evacuation in case of an unforeseen emergency.
Visas & Residency – Can I Move to Roatan?
You will need to apply for residency in Roatan to make a permanent move to the island. The good news is that it is a fairly simple process. There are a few different ways to apply, depending on whether you are a retiree, an investor or if you have family links to Honduras.
Let’s take a look at what the process entails in the case of retirees.
To get your Retirement Residency Card you will need to meet certain requirements and provide various documents to support your application. Applicants must supply their passport, health certificate and a photograph as proof of identity as a basic requirement. Different supporting forms of additional documentation are then required depending on what kind of residency you are applying for, but, as a retiree, you will also need to show that you have income of at least $2,500 per month from a source outside of Honduras or receive at least $1,500 per month from a private or government institution.
To find out more and to see the latest info on applying for residency in Roatan as a retiree, head to our guide to retiring in Roatan.
Another route to securing residency in Roatan is by making an investment in the island. In this case, you will need to apply for an Investor Residency Permit. The process is largely the same as for retirees, and all other residency routes for that matter, but, in this case, you will need to provide proof of your investment. The government asks that you demonstrate that you have invested at least $50,000 in a business or enterprise on the island and submit evidence along with other required documentation.
Finding a Place to Live in Roatan – Where are the Best Places to Buy Property?
One of the best things about Roatan is the landscape. From its perfect white sand beaches to the rolling green hills and the views of turquoise waters and reefs off shore, it is truly one of the most beautiful places to live in the Caribbean.
There is no single best place for buying property in Roatan. Where is best to buy depends on what you are looking for in a neighborhood.
One of the most popular areas is West Bay which is best known for its picture postcard-worthy white sand beach.
If you want to be in the heart of the action, with restaurants, bars and dive shops practically on your doorstep, take a look at the buzzy West End area.
If you like the idea of enjoying the resort lifestyle, Lawson Rock in the Sandy Bay area or the serene residential beach community of Palmetto Bay near French Harbour could also be ideal choices.
Each of these beautiful areas offers idyllic houses and condos with sweeping views of either the sea or the lush green hills, and easy access to amenities such as shops, cafes, restaurants and bars.
Find Out More About Moving to Roatan
Would you like to find out more about moving to Roatan? Would you like to browse property for sale which would be ideal for living in this tropical island paradise?
We would be delighted to help. To get started on your property search, explore Roatan real estate on our website.
Alternatively, contact 7th Heaven Properties, the Luxury Caribbean Property Specialist, to discuss your options in more detail.