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Latin American Countries With Territorial Tax Systems

Updated: January 17, 2026

Wealth Protection

Latin America is one of the best regions in the world to build a solid Plan-B. It sits far from major geopolitical flashpoints, is largely insulated from large-scale conflict, and offers a level of geographic safety that many people underestimate. If the world ever slides into something bigger, having options in a region that’s removed from the center of global tension isn’t paranoia; it’s simply smart positioning.

It’s not just about security. Several Latin American countries make it surprisingly easy to establish residency, often with straightforward requirements, reasonable timelines, and far less friction than what you’ll find in Europe or North America.

But that’s not the whole story.

Beyond lifestyle and residency access, Latin America also offers a major financial advantage that most people miss. Some countries in the region operate under a territorial tax system, meaning they don’t tax foreign-sourced income. For expats, investors, retirees and digital nomads, that can completely change the equation.

In this article, I’ll explain how territorial taxation works in Latin America and break down the key countries that allow expats to live tax-free on foreign-sourced income, while still offering lifestyle, stability, and long-term viability.

Some Latin American countries operate under a territorial tax system, meaning foreign-earned income is generally not taxed locally.

Some Latin American countries operate under a territorial tax system, meaning foreign-earned income is generally not taxed locally

WHAT TERRITORIAL TAXATION REALLY MEANS

Territorial taxation is simple in theory and powerful in practice. If your income is earned outside the country, it generally isn’t taxed locally. Unlike worldwide tax systems that claim a right to everything you earn globally, territorial systems stop at their borders.

For entrepreneurs, digital nomads, investors, and retirees living on foreign income, this distinction changes everything. It reduces tax exposure, simplifies compliance, and restores control over your financial life.

Latin America stands out because territorial taxation is often paired with low living costs, straightforward residency programs, and cultures that are welcoming rather than hostile to foreigners.

In these Latin American countries, establishing legal and tax residency is straightforward, allowing expats to fully benefit from territorial taxation.

In these Latin American countries, establishing legal and tax residency is straightforward, allowing expats to fully benefit from territorial taxation

LATIN AMERICAN COUNTRIES WITH TERRITORIAL TAX SYSTEMS

To benefit from territorial taxation, you must establish tax residency. Below are the most practical Latin American countries where territorial taxation is clearly established and usable for expats today.

NICARAGUA

Nicaragua is one of the most popular expat destinations in Latin America. Foreign income is not taxed, and the cost of living is generally very affordable. Healthcare, housing, and daily expenses are accessible, making Nicaragua particularly appealing to retirees and expats living on fixed or foreign incomes.

The country also offers multiple residency options. Whether you are looking to invest, live on passive income such as a pension or private earnings, or relocate through marriage to a Nicaraguan citizen, there are clear pathways for long-term residence, including routes to permanent residency through relatively small investments. After meeting the required residency period, you may also be eligible to apply for citizenship.

With its lakes, volcanoes, beaches, and colonial cities, Nicaragua provides natural beauty alongside simplicity for those prioritizing affordability and tax efficiency.

Related content: 7 Best Cities For Expats In Nicaragua

BELIZE

Belize combines territorial taxation with English-speaking convenience and Caribbean lifestyle appeal. Foreign income is not taxed, and the country operates as an offshore financial center.

Belize attracts expats looking for a relaxed pace of life, warm weather, and minimal bureaucracy. Real estate remains affordable compared to North America, especially outside tourist hotspots, and residency options are accessible.

The blend of territorial taxation, language accessibility, and island lifestyle makes Belize especially appealing to North American expats seeking an easy transition.

COSTA RICA

Costa Rica has operated under a territorial tax system since 1946. The country attracts expats with political stability, strict rule of law, excellent private healthcare, and a well-developed expat infrastructure. Costa Rica is especially popular with families, retirees, and remote workers who value safety and predictability.

While the cost of living is higher than in some neighbouring countries, Costa Rica compensates with lifestyle quality, environmental beauty, and ease of integration. Residency options such as Pensionado, Rentista, and Investor visas are clear and accessible.

Related content: 4 Best Cities In Costa Rica

PARAGUAY

Paraguay is one of the most underrated territorial tax countries. Foreign income is tax-free, the cost of living is extremely low, and government interference is minimal.

The country is self-sufficient in food and energy, housing is affordable by Western standards, and daily expenses are among the lowest in South America. Paraguay is particularly attractive to expats seeking peace, simplicity, and long-term stability without constant rule changes.

Residency is straightforward, and permanent residency can be obtained easily. Cities like Asunción offer modern conveniences, while the countryside provides space, privacy, and agricultural opportunities.

From a tax-efficiency and lifestyle-cost perspective, Paraguay is one of the cleanest setups available.

PANAMA

Panama is one of the most complete territorial tax jurisdictions in the world. Foreign-earned income is not taxed, and the rules are clear and well established.

Beyond taxes, Panama offers modern infrastructure, strong private healthcare, reliable banking, and excellent global connectivity. Panama City offers a polished, urban experience, with high-rises, modern neighbourhoods, and strong infrastructure, while places like Boquete, Coronado, and Bocas del Toro offer quieter lifestyles surrounded by nature.

Panama has one of the best residency programs in Latin America, the Qualified Investor Visa, which recently had a major upgrade. You don’t need to live in Panama full-time to maintain residency, making it ideal for globally mobile individuals.

A well-chosen territorial-tax residency can be more than a tax move; it’s a long-term Plan-B that expands your options, protects your flexibility, and keeps doors open for the future

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, territorial tax systems can allow expats like you to keep foreign-sourced income outside the local tax net, as long as it’s earned beyond the country’s borders and you follow the local rules. By choosing one of the jurisdictions covered in this article, you can potentially reduce your overall tax burden and simplify your setup, while also positioning yourself for a lower cost of living if and when you decide to spend time there.

Just as importantly, a residency is not always the same thing as relocation. In many cases, you can build a Plan-B residency that gives you legal status, future options, and a workable “exit door” without needing to live in the country year-round. Whether you want a tranquil Latin American base or a foothold in a faster-moving region elsewhere, the right territorial-tax jurisdiction can increase your financial flexibility and expand your choices over time.

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Written by Mikkel Thorup

Mikkel Thorup is the world’s most sought-after expat consultant. He focuses on helping high-net-worth private clients to legally mitigate tax liabilities, obtain a second residency and citizenship, and assemble a portfolio of foreign investments including international real estate, timber plantations, agricultural land and other hard-money tangible assets. Mikkel is the Founder and CEO at Expat Money®, a private consulting firm started in 2017. He hosts the popular weekly podcast, the Expat Money Show, and wrote the definitive #1-Best Selling book Expat Secrets - How To Pay Zero Taxes, Live Overseas And Make Giant Piles Of Money, and his second book: Expats Guide On Moving To Mexico.