I’ve been researching Ukraine for about two years. For some reason it’s outside our federal government’s sphere of influence. Even a small SS check goes a long way there. The women are legendary. Family is still of the utmost importance. The bureaucraic nuances can be managed with applications of cash.
Permanent residency requires jumping through lots of hoops or a single payment of $100,000 to, euphimisticaly speaking, improve the country when paid to the appropriate governmen ministry official.
I plan on doing some on the ground looking within the next few months.
Ukrainian banks even pay a far better interest rate than available there. Like anything else, let the buyer beware. I’m still in bewaring mode.
Being wary is the wisest thing to do. Everything I’ve read or heard, from old family history and lore or via more formal literature says that to be notably different in times of major trouble puts a target on your back.
You’re better off with people who know you, family, friends, neighbors of long standing. Barring that, among people who are at least like you. Tribalism sets in, the impulse to blame outsiders is a strong one.
Make sure you’re in no position to become a scapegoat.
“...I’ve been researching Ukraine for about two years. For some reason it’s outside our federal government’s sphere of influence....”
I know some ex-pats that work there. What you posted here is similar to what I heard from them. Hard to believe that the USA has digressed to the point where the Ukraine appears to be a better place to live.
That is a lot of money to go live in a country where the bureaucracy is pretty much on the take... I would not trust paying such a fee to the Ukraine govt. On the other hand in Thailand - you can get a retirement VISA to stay forever by just having $30,000 in a Thai bank (your account) for 60 days while applying. Cost of living is low - A nice 2br.,2bth.,town home in a Bangkok runs about $425/month. Many Thais speak English and the Thai language is not too difficult to learn. And the women are wonderful.