Introduction
Colombia has quickly become one of the most attractive digital nomad destinations in Latin America. Known for its vibrant cities, rich culture, stunning landscapes, and affordable cost of living, it has drawn thousands of remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs from around the world.
To meet the growing demand, Colombia launched its Digital Nomad Visa in October 2022, making it easier than ever for remote professionals to legally live and work from Colombia while serving clients or employers abroad.
Unlike traditional tourist visas that limit stays to just 90 days (extendable to 180), the Digital Nomad Visa allows foreigners to enjoy the Colombian lifestyle for up to two years—with fewer restrictions and more benefits.
This guide will give you a complete breakdown of the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa, from eligibility and application steps to living costs, taxes, and family rules.
What Is the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa?
The Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is a temporary visa created specifically for remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs. Officially, it is issued under the Visa Type V (Visitor) category.
Key Features at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Name | Colombia Digital Nomad Visa (Type V) |
| Purpose | For remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs serving foreign clients/employers |
| Duration | Up to 2 years |
| Application Fee | Around $50–$100 USD depending on nationality (non-refundable) |
| Visa Issuance Fee | Around $200–$300 USD if approved |
| Minimum Income Requirement | Around $900 USD per month (3x Colombia’s minimum wage) |
| Eligible Applicants | Remote employees, freelancers, business owners |
| Health Insurance | Mandatory for the full duration of stay |
| Family Members | Spouse and dependents can be included |
| Processing Time | Typically 30 days |
| Work Rules | Remote work for foreign employers only; local employment not allowed |
Why Colombia Introduced the Digital Nomad Visa
Colombia already had a strong reputation among digital nomads due to its:
- Affordable lifestyle
- Friendly visa policies
- Strong internet and coworking scene in major cities
By launching this visa, Colombia aimed to:
- Boost its tourism sector by encouraging longer stays.
- Attract global talent to contribute indirectly to the economy.
- Position itself as a digital hub in Latin America.
- Provide an accessible residency option for remote professionals.
Why Choose Colombia as a Digital Nomad Destination?
Colombia isn’t just affordable—it’s a dynamic and exciting place to live.
- 🌎 Cultural Diversity – A mix of modern cities, coffee regions, Caribbean beaches, and Amazon jungles.
- 💸 Low Cost of Living – Enjoy high quality of life at a fraction of the cost of North America or Europe.
- 💻 Great Connectivity – Fast internet, coworking hubs, and strong nomad communities.
- 🏖 Variety of Lifestyles – Choose between bustling Bogotá, trendy Medellín, or relaxed coastal towns like Cartagena.
- 🛡 Legal Security – A clear visa pathway instead of relying on tourist visas.
- 🏦 Business Opportunities – A growing economy and startup scene for entrepreneurs.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must meet the following conditions:
1. Income Requirement
- You must earn at least 3 times the Colombian minimum wage (about $900 USD per month in 2025).
- Income must come from foreign clients or employers.
2. Work Requirement
You must be one of the following:
- Remote employee of a foreign company.
- Freelancer or consultant with international clients.
- Entrepreneur/business owner managing a company abroad.
📌 Important: You cannot take formal employment with Colombian companies on this visa.
3. Health Insurance
- You must hold valid health insurance that covers your entire stay in Colombia.
4. Clean Background
- Applicants must not have a criminal record or past immigration violations.
5. Nationality
- Open to most nationalities.
- Some countries may have stricter entry requirements or higher visa fees.
Required Documents
Here’s the typical document checklist for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa:
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | Must be valid for at least 6 months |
| Passport Photos | Recent, biometric style |
| Completed Visa Application Form | Available online |
| Proof of Income | Bank statements or payslips showing $900+ monthly income |
| Proof of Employment or Freelance Work | Employment contract, client agreements, or company registration abroad |
| Health Insurance Certificate | Showing full coverage in Colombia |
| Criminal Record Certificate | Police clearance from your home country (apostilled or legalized if required) |
| Flight Details | Sometimes requested for entry proof |
| Accommodation Proof | Hotel booking, Airbnb, or rental contract |
| Family Documents (if applying with dependents) | Marriage certificate, children’s birth certificates |
📌 Tip: Many documents must be translated into Spanish and apostilled/legalized.
Application Process
The Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is fully digital and can be completed online.
Step 1: Gather Documents
- Collect all required documents.
- Translate and apostille them if necessary.
Step 2: Submit Online Application
- Apply through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs online platform.
- Upload documents in PDF format.
- Pay the application fee (approx. $50–$100, non-refundable).
Step 3: Wait for Review
- Authorities review your application and may request additional information.
- Processing usually takes up to 30 business days.
Step 4: Visa Approval
- If approved, you’ll receive a notification and must pay the visa issuance fee (approx. $200–$300).
- The visa is issued electronically.
Step 5: Entry to Colombia
- Present your visa at immigration upon arrival.
- You’ll receive a residence stamp for your stay.
Application Timeline
| Stage | Estimated Duration |
|---|---|
| Document Preparation | 1–3 weeks |
| Online Submission | Same day |
| Government Processing | 15–30 business days |
| Visa Issuance | 1 week |
Total time: Around 4–6 weeks from start to finish.
Family Members
The Colombia Digital Nomad Visa allows you to bring your spouse and dependent children.
- You must show additional income to support dependents (amount determined case by case).
- Each dependent must have health insurance.
- Family documents (marriage, birth certificates) must be apostilled and translated into Spanish.
Cost Summary
| Expense | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $50–$100 |
| Visa Issuance Fee | $200–$300 |
| Apostilles & Translations | $100–$300 (varies by country) |
| Health Insurance | $50–$100 per month |
Benefits of the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa
The Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is one of the most accessible and affordable nomad visas in the world.
1. Long-Term Stay
- Stay for up to 2 years, much longer than the 90–180 days allowed on a tourist visa.
2. Low Income Requirement
- Requires only around $900/month income, making it one of the most affordable digital nomad visas globally.
3. Affordable Government Fees
- Application and issuance fees combined are around $250–$400, far cheaper than many other countries.
4. Family Friendly
- Spouses and dependent children can be included in your application.
5. Tax-Friendly Potential
- Colombia only taxes residents who spend 183+ days per year in the country.
- Many nomads can enjoy their stay without becoming tax residents (details in Part 4).
6. Vibrant Lifestyle Options
- From bustling cities to Caribbean beaches and coffee regions, Colombia offers something for every digital nomad.
7. Growing Nomad Community
- Medellín and Bogotá in particular have thriving digital nomad hubs with coworking spaces and international meetups.
Cost of Living in Colombia
Colombia is widely known as one of the most affordable digital nomad destinations in Latin America. Costs vary by city, but overall, remote workers enjoy high quality of life at low prices.
Housing
- Bogotá & Medellín (central areas): $500–$1,000/month for a 1-bedroom apartment.
- Smaller cities (Cali, Bucaramanga): $300–$600/month.
- Beach towns (Cartagena, Santa Marta): $600–$1,200/month depending on location.
Food
- Street food: $2–$5 per meal.
- Mid-range restaurant: $15–$30 for two people.
- Monthly groceries: $200–$400.
Transportation
- Public transport (metro, bus): $0.70–$1.00 per ride.
- Taxi or rideshare: $3–$6 short trips.
- Domestic flights: $40–$100 between major cities.
Internet & Utilities
- High-speed internet: $25–$50/month.
- Utilities (electricity, water, gas): $50–$100/month.
Coworking Spaces
- Medellín/Bogotá: $100–$200/month for memberships.
- Smaller towns: Fewer coworking hubs, but cafés often have strong Wi-Fi.
Estimated Monthly Budget
| Lifestyle | Solo Nomad | Couple | Family (3–4) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | $900–$1,200 | $1,500–$2,000 | $2,000–$2,800 |
| Mid-Range | $1,500–$2,500 | $2,500–$3,800 | $3,500–$4,800 |
| Luxury | $3,000+ | $4,500+ | $6,000+ |
Best Cities for Digital Nomads in Colombia
Colombia is diverse, and each region offers a different lifestyle.
1. Medellín – The Digital Nomad Capital of Colombia
- 🌤 Nicknamed the “City of Eternal Spring” for its perfect weather.
- Thriving digital nomad scene with coworking spaces like Selina and WeWork.
- Affordable living with modern infrastructure.
2. Bogotá – The Bustling Capital
- 🏙 Cultural and economic center with endless dining, nightlife, and networking opportunities.
- Best for nomads who enjoy big-city living.
- Cooler climate due to high altitude.
3. Cartagena – The Caribbean Gem
- 🏖 Colonial charm mixed with Caribbean beaches.
- Growing expat and digital nomad community.
- Higher cost of living compared to Medellín but unmatched for beach life.
4. Cali – The Salsa Capital
- 🎶 Known for its vibrant nightlife and salsa dancing culture.
- Lower cost of living than Bogotá or Cartagena.
- Warm climate year-round.
5. Santa Marta & Taganga – For Beach & Adventure Lovers
- 🐠 Close to Tayrona National Park, diving spots, and beautiful beaches.
- Great for nomads who love nature and the ocean.
6. Bucaramanga – An Underrated Gem
- 🌳 Known as the “City of Parks.”
- Affordable, safe, and less touristy than other Colombian cities.
Quick Comparison Table
| City | Lifestyle | Cost | Internet | Expat Scene |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medellín | Modern, balanced | $$ | Excellent | Large |
| Bogotá | Big city, cultural | $$$ | Excellent | Large |
| Cartagena | Coastal, historic | $$$ | Good | Medium |
| Cali | Vibrant, local | $–$$ | Good | Small |
| Santa Marta | Beach, adventure | $–$$ | Fair | Small |
| Bucaramanga | Quiet, affordable | $ | Good | Small |
Taxes for Digital Nomads in Colombia
One of the most important considerations for nomads is taxation.
1. Tax Residency Rules
- You become a tax resident in Colombia if you spend 183 days or more in a 12-month period in the country.
- Tax residency is based on physical presence, not just visa status.
2. Foreign Income Rules
- Tax residents are subject to tax on worldwide income.
- Non-residents are taxed only on Colombian-sourced income.
3. Tax Rates
- Colombia has a progressive income tax system:
- 0% on lower income brackets.
- Up to around 39% for high-income earners.
4. Double Taxation Treaties
- Colombia has treaties with several countries to avoid double taxation.
- Digital nomads should confirm whether their home country has an agreement in place.
📌 Tip: If you plan to stay under 183 days per year, you generally won’t become a Colombian tax resident.
Family Rules
The Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is family-friendly.
Who Can Join You?
- Spouse or partner
- Dependent children
Requirements for Dependents
- Additional income proof may be required to show financial ability.
- Each dependent must be covered by health insurance valid in Colombia.
- Civil documents (marriage or birth certificates) must be apostilled and translated into Spanish.
Family Life in Colombia
- Major cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena offer international schools, private healthcare, and strong expat networks.
- Families can enjoy Colombia’s rich culture, natural attractions, and relatively affordable lifestyle.
Renewal of the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa
Initial Duration
- The visa can be granted for up to 2 years, depending on your application.
Renewal Options
- You may apply for renewal if you wish to extend beyond the original visa term.
- Must continue to meet income and insurance requirements.
- Renewal requires submitting updated documents (bank statements, contracts, insurance).
Transition to Long-Term Residency
- The Digital Nomad Visa does not directly lead to permanent residency.
- However, after several years of holding other types of visas (such as work, investor, or marriage visas), foreigners can apply for residency permits.
Legal Considerations
✔️ Remote Work Only – You cannot take employment with Colombian companies.
✔️ Document Translations – Most official documents must be translated into Spanish and apostilled.
✔️ Visa Compliance – Stay within visa validity; overstays may result in fines or entry bans.
✔️ Business Opportunities – While you can’t work locally, you can network, attend conferences, or explore investment opportunities.
✔️ Healthcare Access – Private healthcare is affordable; ensure your insurance plan covers treatment in Colombia.
Quick Checklist for Compliance
Before Arrival:
- ✅ Passport valid for at least 6 months.
- ✅ Apostilled and translated income, employment, and civil documents.
- ✅ Valid health insurance.
While in Colombia:
- ✅ Track your days to avoid unintended tax residency.
- ✅ Maintain proof of ongoing income.
- ✅ Keep dependent documents updated.
- ✅ Apply for renewal before your visa expires.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long is the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa valid?
The visa is valid for up to 2 years depending on your application approval.
2. What is the minimum income requirement?
You must show proof of at least $900 USD per month (around 3x Colombia’s minimum wage).
3. Can I work for a Colombian company with this visa?
No. The visa only allows you to work remotely for foreign employers or clients.
4. How much does the visa cost?
- Application fee: Around $50–$100 (non-refundable).
- Visa issuance fee: Around $200–$300 if approved.
5. Do I need a lawyer to apply?
Not required, but many applicants choose to work with an immigration attorney to avoid mistakes.
6. Can I bring my family with me?
Yes. Spouses and dependent children can be included, but you must provide additional income proof and health insurance coverage.
7. Will I become a tax resident in Colombia?
Only if you stay for 183+ days per year. Otherwise, you won’t be considered a Colombian tax resident.
8. Does this visa lead to permanent residency?
Not directly. However, it can serve as a pathway to longer-term visas (such as marriage, investor, or work visas), which may eventually lead to permanent residency.
9. How long does the application take?
Typically 2–6 weeks, depending on document preparation and government processing.
10. Do I need to speak Spanish to live in Colombia?
Not required, but highly recommended. While English is spoken in coworking hubs and tourist areas, Spanish will make daily life easier.
Conclusion
The Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is one of the most accessible and affordable nomad visas in the world. With its low income threshold, reasonable fees, and duration of up to 2 years, it provides digital nomads with a legal way to enjoy Colombia’s unique mix of culture, lifestyle, affordability, and connectivity.
From Medellín’s digital hub and eternal spring weather, to Bogotá’s cosmopolitan energy, and Cartagena’s Caribbean charm, Colombia offers endless lifestyle choices for remote workers. Families can also benefit from affordable schooling, private healthcare, and vibrant expat communities.
While the visa does not directly lead to permanent residency, it is a stepping stone for those looking to establish longer-term ties in Colombia. With careful planning around taxes, health insurance, and compliance, digital nomads can make the most of this opportunity.
For those seeking an affordable, exciting, and culturally rich base in Latin America, the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is a fantastic option.
Final Checklist for Applicants
- ✅ Valid passport (6+ months)
- ✅ Proof of $900+ monthly income
- ✅ Remote job, freelance contracts, or business ownership abroad
- ✅ Health insurance covering Colombia
- ✅ Apostilled & Spanish-translated documents (criminal record, civil docs)
- ✅ Apply online via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal
- ✅ Track your days in-country for tax purposes
