Budget Retirement Options

For years, the United States has dominated the headlines when it comes to illegal immigration and deportations. Now, another major nation appears to be taking an increasingly aggressive approach to enforcing its immigration laws.

Saudi Arabia has announced that it deported **more than 11,000 illegal residents in just one week** following nationwide security operations targeting violations of residency, labor, and border security laws. According to the Saudi Ministry of Interior, authorities arrested more than **15,200 people** during inspections conducted across the Kingdom between June 18 and June 24. Of those detained, **11,297 people were deported**, while thousands of others remain in legal proceedings or are awaiting travel documentation. ([Gulf News][1])

The campaign also targeted those attempting to enter Saudi Arabia illegally. Authorities reported arresting **1,763 individuals** trying to cross the border unlawfully, along with dozens of people accused of transporting, sheltering, or employing undocumented migrants. Saudi officials warned that anyone assisting illegal immigration could face prison sentences of up to **15 years**, fines reaching **SR1 million**, and confiscation of vehicles or property used in the offenses. ([Gulf News][1])

### Is Saudi Arabia Following the U.S. Example?

Some observers see similarities between Saudi Arabia's recent crackdown and the tougher immigration enforcement policies that have gained momentum in the United States. Both countries argue that enforcing immigration laws helps protect national security, preserve jobs for citizens, and maintain the integrity of their legal immigration systems.

Supporters of stricter enforcement say nations have both the right and the responsibility to control who enters and remains within their borders. They argue that allowing large numbers of undocumented immigrants to remain indefinitely places pressure on public services, housing, healthcare, and employment opportunities.

Critics, however, warn that aggressive enforcement campaigns can create humanitarian concerns, particularly when large numbers of migrant workers are involved. Human rights organizations have long urged governments to ensure deportations follow due process and that detainees are treated fairly throughout the legal process.

### A Global Trend?

Saudi Arabia's actions may reflect a broader international trend rather than an isolated policy shift. Around the world, governments are tightening border controls, increasing visa enforcement, and taking stronger action against individuals who overstay visas or work without legal authorization.

As economic uncertainty, labor shortages, and migration pressures continue to affect many nations, immigration policy is becoming one of the defining political issues of the decade.

Whether one agrees or disagrees with these policies, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: governments across the globe are placing greater emphasis on enforcing existing immigration laws.

Time will tell whether this tougher approach becomes the new international standard—or whether countries eventually seek a different balance between border security, economic needs, and humanitarian concerns.

The article is based on Saudi Arabia's reported enforcement actions and avoids asserting that Saudi policy was directly inspired by the United States. While the title uses "Monkey See, Monkey Do?" as commentary, the body presents the comparison as an observation rather than a factual claim. The reported figures come from Saudi authorities as summarized in recent reporting. ([Gulf News][1])

[1]: gulfnews.com/world/gulf/saudi/saudi-arabia-deports… "Saudi Arabia deports more than 11,000 illegal residents in one week"

2 weeks ago | [YT] | 1

Budget Retirement Options

Impact-Site-Verification: 56b571b1-6361-42c1-9ef9-9c0a53284bbd

1 month ago | [YT] | 0

Budget Retirement Options

Looks like the travel industry will be okay: Read the entire article: www.msn.com/en-us/health/other/world-first-vaccine…

1 month ago | [YT] | 0

Budget Retirement Options

This is ONE of the reasons we warn Americans on this channel about turning their backs on America. There is "talk" about 50% ownership by the public in artificial intelligence! Read the entire article here: Donald Trump, Bernie Sanders and Sam Altman are all talking about public ownership in AI www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/donald-trump-berni…

1 month ago | [YT] | 0

Budget Retirement Options

Sri Lanka is making a major move to attract more visitors by eliminating tourist visa fees for travelers from 40 countries, including the United States. The new policy allows Americans and other eligible visitors to receive a 30-day Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) without paying the usual visa fee, helping to reduce travel costs and make the island nation more accessible. While the visa itself is now free, travelers must still complete the online ETA application before arriving in the country.



Tourism officials hope the change will encourage a new wave of international visitors as Sri Lanka continues rebuilding and expanding its tourism industry. Known for its stunning beaches, ancient temples, tea plantations, wildlife parks, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Sri Lanka has long been considered one of Asia’s most beautiful destinations. By removing visa fees, the government is sending a clear message that the country is open for business and eager to welcome tourists from around the world.



For American travelers, the savings may seem modest, but the symbolic impact is significant. The visa waiver simplifies the travel process, lowers entry costs, and makes Sri Lanka more competitive with other popular destinations in Southeast Asia. The free ETA is generally valid for 30 days and includes a double-entry provision, allowing visitors some flexibility during their stay. However, anyone planning to remain longer than 30 days must apply for an extension and pay the applicable fees. ([IAG][2])



The decision reflects a growing global trend among countries that rely heavily on tourism revenue. Instead of collecting relatively small visa fees, governments are focusing on attracting larger numbers of visitors who will spend money on hotels, restaurants, transportation, entertainment, and local businesses. Sri Lanka appears to be betting that increased tourism spending will more than offset the loss of visa revenue. ([VisasNews][3])



For retirees, slow travelers, digital nomads, and budget-conscious Americans looking for an affordable overseas experience, this policy change could make Sri Lanka an even more attractive destination. From tropical coastlines and safari adventures to historic cities and mountain retreats, the country is positioning itself as one of the most accessible and affordable travel opportunities in Asia for 2026.

SIR LANKA IMMIGRATION
www.srilankaimmigration.org/check-requirements/uni…

DOCUMENTATION LINKS:

([euronews][1])

[1]: www.euronews.com/travel/2026/05/26/sri-lanka-waive… "Sri Lanka has waived visa fees for tourists from these countries"
[2]: asgam.com/2026/05/27/sri-lanka-introduces-fee-free… "Sri Lanka introduces fee-free visas for tourists from 40 countries"
[3]: visasnews.com/en/sri-lanka-parliament-approves-fre… "Sri Lanka: Parliament approves free visas for 40 countries, but ETA remains mandatory"

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1 month ago | [YT] | 0

Budget Retirement Options

Dear Expat: What If Other Countries Begin Acting Like the United States?



Today, I want to ask you a serious question.



What if other countries begin treating Americans the same way the United States is now treating foreigners and non-citizens?



What if countries around the world decide to tighten immigration laws, increase financial checks, monitor bank accounts, limit visas, and make life harder for foreigners living abroad?



For years, many Americans believed moving overseas meant freedom, lower costs, less stress, and a better quality of life.



But now, many expats are asking a new question.

Are we really as safe as we think?



Recent executive actions in the United States are creating concern among immigrants, visa holders, and even legal residents. Reports say new policies could require some green card applicants to leave the United States and apply again from their home countries. ([New York Post]



Other reports say banks may now face pressure to pay closer attention to customers' citizenship status. ([Reuters)



Now stop and think about this for a moment.



What happens if other countries decide to copy these same ideas?



Imagine living peacefully in another country for five or ten years.



You rent an apartment.



You spend money in local businesses.



You follow the rules.



Then suddenly, the government changes.



A new political party takes control.



New laws are introduced.



And foreigners are no longer welcomed the same way.



Your visa could become harder to renew. (This is already happening)



Your bank account could face restrictions.



Property ownership laws could change.



Taxes on foreigners could increase.



Healthcare access could become limited.



And overnight, you may go from “welcome guest” to “economic burden.”



This is not fear-mongering.



This is reality.



Governments around the world watch each other closely.



When one powerful country changes policy, others often follow.

We saw this during COVID.



Countries copied border restrictions.



Travel rules changed overnight.





And many expats suddenly discovered they were not as protected as they believed.



Now, let me be clear.



Not every country is anti-expat.



Many nations still welcome foreigners because retirees, digital nomads, and investors bring money into local economies.



Countries like Georgia, Mexico, Thailand, Malaysia, Panama, and Portugal have benefited greatly from foreign residents spending money locally.



But politics can change quickly.



Economic pressure changes governments.



And rising housing costs sometimes create anger toward foreigners.



In some countries, local citizens already complain that expats are driving up rent prices and changing neighborhoods.



Sound familiar?



That same argument is playing out in the United States right now.



So here is the lesson.



Expats should never become overconfident.



Do not assume you are untouchable because you left America.



Do not assume your retirement visa will last forever.



And do not assume foreign governments will always remain friendly.



Smart expats prepare for change before change happens.



That means:

Always keep emergency savings.

Keep valid travel documents updated.

Have access to more than one bank account.

Avoid depending completely on one country.

Learn local laws.

Respect local culture.

And most importantly, never forget that you are a guest in another nation.



Now here is the good news.



Most countries still value respectful foreigners who contribute positively to the economy and community.



The goal is not panic.



The goal is awareness.



Because the world is changing.



Governments are changing.



Immigration systems are changing.



And Americans living overseas should pay attention.



What happens in the United States today could become policy somewhere else tomorrow.



This is Sandy Ingram.
Publisher of the Budget Retirement Options YouTube Channel
youtube.com/@BudgetRetirementOptions



Please subscribe, share this video, and stay informed.



Because smart expats prepare before problems arrive.



[1]: nypost.com/2026/05/22/us-news/trump-admin-announce… "Trump admin announces green card applicants must leave US and apply from home country"


[2]: www.reuters.com/world/trump-backs-down-requiring-b… "Non-citizens face more scrutiny on bank activities after Trump order"

1 month ago (edited) | [YT] | 7

Budget Retirement Options

What if I told you… over 54 million Americans don’t have access to a 401(k)?
That means no easy way to save for retirement… and no clear place to start.
Now here’s the big move.
President Donald Trump just signed an executive order to change that.
It creates a new government-backed website—TrumpIRA.gov—where Americans can compare and open retirement accounts… all in one place.
This is designed for people who work part-time, change jobs often, or work for small businesses with no benefits.
And here’s what makes it powerful.
The platform will offer low-cost, simple investment options, similar to the federal government’s Thrift Savings Plan—known for keeping fees low and investing easy.
This builds on a policy from Joe Biden, which offered up to $1,000 in matching contributions for low-income savers.
But this new plan focuses on something even bigger…
Access.
Because the real problem isn’t just money…
It’s that millions of people don’t know where to start.
A single, trusted platform could remove confusion, lower fees, and finally make retirement saving simple.
And if that happens…
This could be one of the biggest shifts in how Americans prepare for retirement in years.
Follow for more updates on retirement, investing, and building income anywhere in the world.

2 months ago | [YT] | 3

Budget Retirement Options

IMPORTANT INFO for U.S. Expats in Mexico - Mexico refuses to designate Iran's proxies as terrorist groups. There is no doubt that terrorist cells are relocating from the Middle East to Mexico. This is not a secret in the intelligence community. More than likely, they are trying to get closer to the U.S. The problem is that Mexico refuses to label certain groups from the Middle East as terrorist groups, and because of this, members of the groups can enter Mexico with little effort, but so can you, I, or many people from different countries.

2 months ago | [YT] | 5

Budget Retirement Options

🛳️ How to Cruise FREE Without Gambling!
Cruise lines reward "group bookings"
The reward is usually:
1 free berth (1 person’s fare)

You still pay taxes, port fees, gratuities
It’s based on number of cabins or passengers booked

🧾 Major Cruise Lines (Typical Ratios)
1. Royal Caribbean
Rule: 1 free berth for every 8 cabins (≈16 people)
Instead of a full free room, you get a credit equal to one person’s fare
Can be:
Used by group leader
OR split across the group

👉 Example:

8 cabins (16 people) → 1 person cruises free
16 cabins → 2 people free
2. Carnival Cruise Line
Rule: 1 free berth for about 15–16 paying passengers

👉 Example:

16 people → 1 free fare
32 people → 2 free fares
3. Princess Cruises
Typical:
Around 1 free berth per 8–10 cabins

👉 Example:

10 cabins → 1 person free
Larger groups → more free fares
4. General Industry Standard (Applies to MOST Lines)

Across cruise companies, the most common formula is:

8 cabins (16 people) → 1 free berth

Sometimes:
5 cabins (premium/long cruises)
10 cabins (higher-end lines)

⚠️ Important Details (Most People Miss This)
“Free cabin” = usually ONLY 1 person’s cruise fare
You STILL pay:
Taxes
Port charges
Gratuities

The free fare is usually:
Based on the cheapest cabin type booked
You may need:

All cabins paid in full before receiving credit

💡 Bonus: Kids Sail Free (Different Deal)

For example, Royal Caribbean sometimes offers:

Kids under 12 sail free (in same cabin with adults)

👉 This is NOT a group perk — it’s a promotion.

📊 Quick Comparison
Cruise Line Typical Requirement What You Get
Royal Caribbean 8 cabins (16 people) 1 free person (credit)
Carnival 15–16 people 1 free person
Princess 8–10 cabins 1 free person
Industry Average 8 cabins / 16 people 1 free person

You can either sell these cruise spots and earn a profit, or you can lower the cost for each guest. If and when you do this for weddings, family reunions or business meetings that's when you can earn BIG Bucks each year.

At this point you may want to sign up for and train as a work from home cruise agent and earn even more commissions on each booking. You Travel Host Company will split the commission with you, but many home travel agents can create a six-figure income from doing what they love. Subscribe. We offer more tips on living well on less while retired.

2 months ago | [YT] | 5

Budget Retirement Options

In 2026, Medicare costs are going up, and that means many retirees will feel more pressure on their monthly budgets. The biggest change is the increase in the Medicare Part B premium, which covers doctor visits and outpatient care. Most retirees will now pay about $202.90 per month, up from $185 in 2025. That may not sound like a huge jump, but over a year, it adds up—and it comes straight out of your Social Security check.

At the same time, the deductible—the amount you must pay before Medicare starts covering your care—is also rising. In 2026, the Part B deductible increases to $283, and the hospital deductible under Part A goes up to $1,736. This means if you get sick or need treatment, you’ll pay more out of pocket before coverage kicks in.

So why is this happening? The main reason is simple: healthcare costs are rising. More people are using medical services, and treatments are getting more expensive. Medicare adjusts its prices each year to keep up with these costs, and unfortunately, retirees end up paying more as a result.

Now here’s the part that really affects retirees: while Social Security benefits are increasing in 2026, the Medicare premium increase will take a noticeable chunk out of that raise. The average Social Security increase is about $56 per month, but a good portion of that will go toward higher Medicare costs—leaving less money in your pocket for everyday living expenses.

There’s another issue many retirees don’t realize. If your income goes up—even slightly—you could be pushed into a higher income bracket and pay even more for Medicare. This is called IRMAA, and it can significantly increase your monthly premiums. Even things like selling a home, taking a large withdrawal from retirement accounts, or doing a Roth conversion can trigger higher costs.

The bottom line is this: Medicare is becoming more expensive, and retirees need to plan for higher healthcare costs going forward. Even though benefits are increasing slightly, rising premiums and deductibles are eating into those gains. That’s why it’s more important than ever to budget carefully, review your Medicare plan each year, and be aware of how your income can affect what you pay.

See 20 Unique Ways to Save BIG for Retirees: https://youtu.be/j5IJhb2MvB8

3 months ago | [YT] | 4