13 Countries That Allow Stays of Six Months or More

ByRachna Chandira

Save This Article

WANT TO SAVE THIS ARTICLE?

Enter your email below & I'll send it straight to your inbox!

And each week, I'll send you new tips to plan your next romantic couples trip! If you decide it's not for you, unsubscribing is always just a click away.

Buenos Aires skyline with river and tall buildings at sunset
Deensel, CC BY 2.0/Wikimedia Commons

Dreaming of a longer escape? These 13 countries welcome travelers with visa-free or extended stays of six months or more. Whether you’re craving tropical beaches, cultural adventures, or a peaceful retreat, these destinations make it easy to slow down and enjoy life at your own pace. Perfect for remote workers, long-term travelers, or anyone needing a change of scenery, this list will help you plan your next extended journey with ease.

Antigua and Barbuda

Colorful coastal homes in Antigua and Barbuda with ocean views under a dramatic cloudy sky
CROIX, CC BY-SA 4.0/Wikimedia Commons

Antigua and Barbuda offers visa-free stays of up to six months for eligible travelers, making it a top destination for extended visits. Known for its 365 beaches, charming coastal villages, and relaxed Caribbean lifestyle, it’s ideal for anyone craving sun, sea, and simplicity. You can spend your days swimming in turquoise waters, sailing between the islands, or exploring historical sites like Nelson’s Dockyard. With friendly locals and a warm climate, this peaceful escape invites you to settle in and truly unwind.

Argentina

Crowded street market in Argentina with colorful stalls and old buildings
Rafael Guimarães/Pexels

Argentina allows most travelers to stay up to 90 days, with the option to extend for another 90, giving you half a year to enjoy one of South America’s most vibrant countries. From the colorful streets of Buenos Aires to the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia, there’s no shortage of adventure. Enjoy world-class wines in Mendoza, dance to tango rhythms, or hike through glaciers in the south. With a rich culture, diverse scenery, and welcoming people, Argentina is perfect for travelers who like to take their time.

Costa Rica

Sunbeams breaking through clouds over Costa Rica’s lush mountains and valleys
Luis Quintero/Pexels

Costa Rica welcomes many visitors with an initial 90-day stay and the option to extend, making long-term visits easy and popular. Known for its “pura vida” lifestyle, the country is a paradise of lush rainforests, active volcanoes, and peaceful beaches. Whether you’re ziplining through jungle canopies, watching sloths in the wild, or surfing warm Pacific waves, there’s always something new to explore. With friendly locals, healthy living, and eco-conscious culture, Costa Rica is perfect for a slow, adventurous escape.

Morocco

A serene reflection of Morocco’s ancient architecture and desert landscape
Moussa Idrissi/Pexels

Travelers from select countries, including those eligible under programs like Canada’s eTA, can stay in Morocco for up to six months. With its mix of ancient traditions and modern comforts, Morocco offers a colorful and exciting place to explore slowly. Wander through the busy souks of Marrakech, sip mint tea in blue-painted Chefchaouen, or ride camels across the Sahara. Morocco’s warm hospitality, rich cuisine, and stunning scenery—from coastlines to mountains—make it a unique spot for a long, enriching stay.

Panama

A coastal cityscape in Panama, where lush greenery meets the Pacific horizon
Luis Quintero/Pexels

Panama offers visa-free stays of up to six months for many nationalities, making it one of the most flexible destinations in Central America. It’s a country of contrast—modern skyscrapers in Panama City stand next to rainforest trails and quiet mountain towns. You can visit the famous Panama Canal, relax on Caribbean and Pacific beaches, or explore indigenous cultures. With a growing community of expats, affordable living, and year-round warmth, Panama is a fantastic place to live, work, or simply stay awhile.

Philippines

A dramatic Manila Bay sunset bathes the Philippine skyline in vibrant hues
Pixabay/Pexels

The Philippines allows travelers to stay up to 30 days, but with regular extensions, many visitors stay up to six months or even longer. This tropical archipelago of over 7,000 islands offers endless beauty—white-sand beaches, friendly locals, and a laid-back vibe. Whether you’re diving in crystal-clear waters, hiking through rice terraces, or exploring lively markets, the Philippines is full of charm and adventure. With low costs and easygoing culture, it’s an ideal place for slow travel or long stays.

St. Kitts and Nevis

Colorful boats dock in a lively marina, backed by lush mountains in St. Kitts and Nevis
Julia Volk/Pexels

St. Kitts and Nevis offers visa-free stays of up to six months for eligible visitors, making it a perfect long-term destination for those seeking peace and beauty. These twin islands are known for their uncrowded beaches, green hills, and relaxed island life. You can tour old sugar plantations, hike dormant volcanoes, or simply spend days soaking up the sun. It’s a quiet and safe place with welcoming people and stunning views—ideal for anyone who wants to slow down and enjoy a slice of Caribbean paradise.

St. Lucia

Aerial view of St. Lucia’s coastline with turquoise waters, boats, and beachside resorts nestled near lush green hills
Lii, Public Domain/Wikimedia Commons

St. Lucia grants visa-free stays of up to six months to travelers from various countries, giving you plenty of time to enjoy this lush island. With its twin Piton peaks, volcanic beaches, and tropical forests, it’s a nature lover’s dream. Explore waterfalls, take mud baths in natural hot springs, or snorkel along coral reefs. Local culture is rich with music, food, and warm smiles. Whether you’re traveling solo or as a couple, St. Lucia is a beautiful, welcoming place to unwind for months at a time.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Lush green hills of St. Vincent and the Grenadines meet the deep blue sea under a partly cloudy sky
P.khiao, CC BY-SA 4.0/Wikimedia Commons

This Caribbean nation allows visitors to stay for up to six months without a visa, offering a peaceful and scenic setting for extended travel. With dozens of small islands and quiet beaches, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is perfect for those looking to escape busy tourist spots. Sail from island to island, explore colorful reefs, or simply enjoy the slow rhythm of island life. The calm, friendly atmosphere and natural beauty make it a hidden gem for long-term stays and total relaxation.

Seychelles

Panoramic view of Seychelles' lush hills and coastal city blending into turquoise island waters
Kevin Gepford, CC BY-SA 4.0/Wikimedia Commons

Seychelles offers travelers an initial stay of three months, with possible extensions allowing for up to 12 months in total. This island nation in the Indian Ocean is known for its white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and rare wildlife. You can hike through lush forests, snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons, or unwind on quiet shores. The peaceful pace of life and low tourist crowds make it ideal for long, relaxing visits. If you’re looking for beauty, serenity, and time to enjoy it all, Seychelles is a top choice.

Thailand

Colorful boats float off Thailand’s white-sand beach, backed by lush greenery and lively seaside buildings
Tirachard Kumtanom/Pexels

Thailand provides a six-month multiple-entry tourist visa for eligible travelers, allowing longer stays with flexible entries. Known for its friendly people, affordable lifestyle, and mix of city life and nature, it’s a top pick for extended travel. You can visit temples in Chiang Mai, relax on islands like Phuket, or explore the busy streets of Bangkok. From food to culture to scenery, Thailand offers endless experiences—and it’s all wrapped in the famous Thai hospitality that keeps visitors coming back.

Trinidad and Tobago

Colorful homes blanket the hills of Trinidad and Tobago, nestled beneath lush, tropical mountains
Kenrick Baksh/Pexels

Trinidad and Tobago welcomes eligible travelers with visa-free stays of up to six months. The twin-island nation is known for its lively culture, colorful festivals like Carnival, and mix of beach and rainforest landscapes. In Trinidad, enjoy music, food, and vibrant city life, while Tobago offers quiet beauty and calm waters. With friendly locals and a rich blend of cultures, it’s a great place to explore at your own pace. Whether you want fun or peace, six months here can fly by in the best way.

Uruguay

The grand neoclassical Palacio Legislativo in Montevideo, Uruguay, stands tall under a clear blue sky
AC070580, CC BY-SA 3.0/Wikimedia Commons

Uruguay allows many visitors to stay for 90 days with an option to extend up to six months. It’s a peaceful, safe country with charming cities, calm beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle. Explore Montevideo’s old town, unwind in coastal towns like Punta del Este, or sip mate with locals in a park. Uruguay offers a European feel in South America, with good infrastructure and friendly people. For those seeking a slower, more thoughtful travel experience, Uruguay is a welcoming place to stay longer.

Rachna Chandira is a travel writer and communications professional known for her culturally rich and emotionally resonant storytelling.
With a background in development journalism, she brings a nuanced perspective to her writing, focusing on people, place, and purpose. Her work spans India, Southeast Asia, and Europe, often exploring slow travel, solo adventures, and underrepresented local narratives.
From crafting immersive city guides to curating thoughtful itineraries, Rachna combines journalistic depth with a storyteller’s heart. She views travel as a way to connect cultures, inspire empathy, and leave a meaningful impression on readers seeking more than just destinations.