I know it seems ridiculous to pay $30-50 each week to get to work, but the guys I have known that do it say that is chump change compared to the lifestyle they can afford on FO pay in some of these places. (Yes you read that right, FIRST OFFICER 'PAY' at a REGIONAL).

I could see it getting a little spendy when you start throwing some ZEDs or ID90s in your back pocket for a rainy day, but that sounds like it would really be a once in a while backup plan.

I'm sure it's possible, I know an AAL pilot with one family in Texas and another family in Columbia!

Thanks guys. My fiancee is from Colombia and will likely find it easier to get a job there straight out of engineering school. We think about a year of experience there will be the key to landing a permanent job in the petroleum industry in the US. At that point we will be able to set up shop in Houston (base) and there will be no more commuting and QOL will improve a lot. It will likely only be for about a one year. I'll check our Global Entry tomorrow. Anything to make the process more doable will be welcomed. I also agree that the better cost of living will make any immigration fees almost a non issue. We'll see...

Immigration isn't going to care one iota. There are business travelers that come and go several times a month.

As for Global Entry, it's one of the best deals going. Definitely do it.

Do you know what the departure tax is. I was there in March but forget what I paid. I wonder if there is any way around paying every time.

More than a few FDX guys commute from Mem To central and South America.

It's doable but it really depends most on what the schedules are like at your company.

Colombia departure tax
 

Departure tax out of Colombia is $38, unless your stay has been less than 60 days. In that case you have to go make a huge line in an office where they stamp your passport with the exemption. (it was about 40 minutes long the last time I was there).

Which carriers are these, I'd like to know for future reference.

Yup, I remember now. No tax under 60 days. I'd never be there for that long at a time so it looks like I'll not pay a tax. However, I do wonder how long it will take before they start seeing me as more than a tourist. I might call the embassy and ask a few questions.

Gents,
ALPA provides a pretty good JS guide on the website that you can download. When it comes to the particulars of international travel, my suggestion is to start with your own carriers Travel Department, followed by a phone call/email to your union's JS rep.

As for taxes, plan on swiping a credit card (or paying cash if that is the protocol, as it is in some places).

Hope that helps...