Hi Michael,

American expats living in Australia must register bank accounts, loans, and large purchases with the US government and pay taxes to both countries.

Eligibility for stimulus checks (there's been, one?) required working/living in the US during that financial year.

I left the US in search of a better quality of life, not because I preferred the culture elsewhere. However, I love Colombia and see where you're coming from.

I did not think I'd stay overseas, but an Australian company sponsored me, offering a permanent residence visa. I'd be foolish to leave the social benefits like universal healthcare, 4 weeks paid vacation, ten + sick/personal days, long-service, political stability, etc.

Australia isn't perfect, but working or retiring in the US aren't ideal. Crazy.

Disfruta Colombia!