Colombia Digital Nomad Visa

Snapshot of the Digital Nomad Visa

• 1. The Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is available to individuals of any age, provided they earn a minimum monthly income of $3,900,000 COP from a source outside Colombia.
• 2. Applicants must submit a motivational letter outlining their professional plans and how they intend to contribute while living in Colombia.
• 3. Certain documents need to be apostilled and legalized before submitting the application, ensuring compliance with Colombian immigration requirements.
• 4. You can apply for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa while in the country on a tourist visa or from abroad in your home country or another location.

At Colombia Law Connection, we simplify the visa process by guiding you through every step, from document preparation to submission, ensuring a seamless application experience.

Colombia Digital Nomad Visa: Live and Work Remotely

The Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is designed for individuals who work remotely for companies or clients located outside of Colombia. This visa provides a legal pathway to reside in Colombia while maintaining international professional activities. As part of Colombia's strategy to attract global talent, this initiative supports economic growth by encouraging longer stays and increased local spending.

To qualify for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must demonstrate a stable income from foreign sources and maintain valid health insurance coverage in Colombia. The visa is typically granted for up to two years and may be renewable under certain conditions. This program reflects Colombia's commitment to embracing the rise of remote work and fostering a dynamic international community of professionals.

Why Choose the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa Over Other Destinations?

Colombia stands out as a premier destination for remote workers, offering a unique combination of affordability, vibrant culture, and a supportive digital nomad community. Here's why the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is a top choice compared to other countries:

• Affordable Cost of Living: Enjoy a high quality of life on a moderate budget. Housing, food, transportation, and entertainment are significantly cheaper than in many Western countries and other popular nomad destinations.
• Rich Culture & Dynamic Lifestyle: Experience Colombia's diverse landscapes and lively cities. Whether it's the bustling energy of Bogotá and Medellín or the coastal charm of Cartagena and Santa Marta, the country offers endless cultural activities, festivals, and natural beauty.
• Thriving Digital Nomad Community: Connect with fellow remote workers and entrepreneurs in cities like Medellín, where coworking spaces, networking events, and meetups provide opportunities for both professional and social growth.
• Ideal Climate Options: Choose from a variety of climates based on your preference, from the cool Andean regions to the tropical Caribbean coast.
• Flexible Visa & Stability: The Colombia Digital Nomad Visa grants up to 2 years of residency, allowing remote workers to immerse themselves in the culture without worrying about constant visa renewals.
• Time Zone Advantage: Operating on GMT-5, Colombia's time zone aligns well with North American business hours, making it easier for remote workers to coordinate with U.S. and Canadian clients or employers.
• Spanish Immersion & Language Growth: Living in Colombia provides a natural environment to learn or improve Spanish, an invaluable skill for personal and professional growth.
• Reliable Connectivity & Workspaces: Major cities have high-speed internet and modern coworking spaces, ensuring a productive remote work environment tailored to digital nomads.
• High-Quality & Affordable Healthcare: Colombia boasts world-class healthcare at a fraction of the cost compared to many Western nations, making it an attractive option for long-term stays.
• Strategic Travel Hub: Located centrally in South America, Colombia serves as a gateway to explore the continent, with affordable flights and easy access to neighboring countries.

With these unparalleled benefits, Colombia is rapidly becoming a top choice for digital nomads looking for adventure, affordability, and professional growth.

Best Cities in Colombia for Digital Nomads to Live and Work

Colombia offers a variety of incredible destinations for remote workers. While many pueblos and smaller towns attract digital nomads, the following six cities are the most popular among our clients at Colombia Law Connection. These locations provide modern infrastructure, vibrant communities, and an ideal balance of work and lifestyle for digital nomads seeking the best of Colombia.

Medellín

Known as the "City of Eternal Spring", Medellín offers a year-round pleasant climate, stunning mountain views, and a thriving digital nomad scene. It has become one of the most popular remote work destinations in Latin America due to its affordable cost of living, modern infrastructure, and strong expat community.

• Excellent coworking spaces & cafes with reliable Wi-Fi (Selina, WeWork, Tinkko).
• Safe and modern neighborhoods like El Poblado and Laureles, offering top-notch amenities.
• Affordable apartments with great views and access to a vibrant social life.
• Efficient metro system and easy transportation around the city.

Bogotá

As Colombia's capital and largest city, Bogotá is a bustling urban center with a mix of modern skyscrapers, colonial architecture, and a rich cultural scene. While the altitude makes for a cooler climate, Bogotá is the country's economic and entrepreneurial powerhouse, attracting remote professionals looking for networking and career growth opportunities.

• Largest number of coworking spaces in Colombia (WeWork, Impact Hub, Spaces).
• Diverse cultural experiences, including museums, theaters, and music festivals.
• World-class restaurants and coffee shops in neighborhoods like Zona G and Chapinero.
• Convenient travel hub with domestic and international flight connections.

Cartagena

Cartagena is a coastal paradise with a rich colonial history, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches. This UNESCO World Heritage City attracts digital nomads seeking a mix of culture and relaxation. While the cost of living is higher than other Colombian cities, the warm climate, Caribbean ambiance, and beachside lifestyle make it an appealing choice.

• Stunning colonial architecture and a lively atmosphere.
• Beachside living with easy access to the Caribbean Sea.
• Growing coworking scene, with spaces like Selina offering networking opportunities.
• Proximity to islands and natural parks for weekend getaways.

Santa Marta

For digital nomads who love nature, Santa Marta offers the perfect mix of beaches, mountains, and national parks. Located near Tayrona National Park and the Sierra Nevada mountains, Santa Marta is a laid-back yet adventurous destination for those looking to escape the city's hustle.

• More affordable than Cartagena but with the same Caribbean charm.
• Close proximity to world-class nature spots like Tayrona and Minca.
• Relaxed pace of life, perfect for those seeking work-life balance.
• Emerging coworking spaces catering to the digital nomad community.

Cali

Known as the "Salsa Capital of the World," Cali is a vibrant city in southwestern Colombia, famous for its dance culture, warm climate, and affordability. While it's not as developed in terms of coworking infrastructure, it offers a welcoming local community and a relaxed lifestyle.

• One of the most affordable major cities in Colombia.
• Warm climate and friendly local culture.
• Active nightlife and dance scene for social nomads.
• Slower pace of life, ideal for those seeking a less hectic work environment.

Pereira

Located in the heart of Colombia's Coffee Triangle, Pereira is a mid-sized city surrounded by stunning landscapes. It's an ideal destination for digital nomads looking for peace, nature, and affordability while still having access to necessary amenities.

• Low cost of living with excellent quality of life.
• Surrounded by coffee farms, hot springs, and mountains.
• Smaller, laid-back city atmosphere with essential amenities.
• Growing number of coworking spaces for remote professionals.

These locations offer a variety of lifestyles and experiences, catering to different preferences and making Colombia a diverse and appealing destination for digital nomads.

Whether you seek urban energy, coastal relaxation, or peaceful nature retreats, Colombia has a diverse selection of cities to fit your remote work lifestyle. With the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa, you can legally live and work remotely in a country that offers affordability, modern amenities, and a vibrant expat community.

At Colombia Law Connection, we help remote workers navigate the visa process smoothly, so you can focus on enjoying your new life in one of Latin America's most exciting digital nomad destinations.

Do I need to pay taxes in Colombia if I am on the Digital Nomad Visa?

There is no simple one answer suits all to this question, as each persons circumstances are different. However, foreigners in Colombia on the Digital Nomad Visa may be subject to local taxes depending on their duration of stay and their income sources. Here are some key points to consider:

• Tax Residency: In Colombia, an individual becomes a tax resident if they spend more than 183 days in the country during a calendar year or in any 365-day period. Tax residents are required to pay taxes on their worldwide income.
• Non-Resident Taxation: If a digital nomad stays in Colombia for less than 183 days and is not considered a tax resident, they are typically only subject to taxes on their Colombian-sourced income. Income earned from foreign sources is generally not taxed for non-residents.
• Double Taxation Agreements: Colombia has double taxation treaties with several countries to prevent double taxation on the same income. These agreements can provide tax relief or exemptions, depending on the specific treaty provisions.
• Social Security Contributions: Foreigners working remotely for non-Colombian companies might not need to pay Colombian social security contributions. However, this can vary based on individual circumstances and agreements between countries.

Given the complexity of tax regulations, it is advisable for digital nomads to consult with a tax professional or legal expert such as Colombia Law Connection to understand your specific tax obligations.

What Restrictions Apply to Digital Nomads in Colombia?

As a digital nomad Colombia, holding a Digital Nomad Visa comes with specific restrictions and guidelines to ensure compliance with local laws. Here's what you need to know:

• Work Restrictions: You are permitted to work remotely for companies or clients outside of Colombia, but you cannot engage in local employment or provide services to Colombian-based businesses.
• Duration of Stay: The Digital Nomad Visa typically allows you to stay in Colombia for up to 2 years. If you plan to stay longer, ensure you apply for an extension before your visa expires.
• Tax Obligations: While the visa itself does not automatically impose tax obligations, you may become a tax resident if you stay in Colombia for more than 183 days in a calendar year. This means you could be required to pay Colombian taxes on worldwide income. Consulting a tax professional is recommended to clarify your situation.
• Business Operations: Under the Digital Nomad Visa, you are not allowed to start or operate a business in Colombia. If you wish to establish a company, you will need to apply for a different type of visa that permits business activities.
• Health Insurance Requirement: To comply with visa regulations, you may be required to have health insurance that covers your stay in Colombia. Ensure your coverage meets the necessary visa requirements to avoid any issues.

These restrictions are in place to ensure that digital nomads in Colombia use the visa for its intended purpose, working remotely for foreign companies, while respecting Colombian laws and regulations.

At Colombia Law Connection, we help remote workers understand their legal rights, visa limitations, and compliance requirements to ensure a hassle-free stay in Colombia.

What are the requirements for applying for the Digital Nomad Visa?

To apply for the Colombian digital nomad visa, here are the primary requirements you'll need to meet:

• Proof of Income: You must demonstrate a monthly income of at least three times the Colombian minimum wage, roughly COP3,900,000 or equivalent, which can be verified through bank statements.
• Valid Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the period you plan to stay in Colombia.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage for accidents, illnesses, hospitalization, and repatriation for the entire duration of your stay is mandatory.
• Application Documents: Essential documents include a passport-style photo, a motivational letter if you're an entrepreneur, and a letter from your foreign employer detailing the remote work arrangement. If already in Colombia, you might need to show the last entry stamp in your passport.

These requirements ensure that digital nomads have sufficient financial resources and health coverage during their stay in Colombia.

Who Typically Applies for the Digital Nomad Visa in Colombia?

A wide range of remote professionals apply for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa, allowing them to legally live and work in the country while maintaining their global careers. These individuals are not dependent on the local economy and can perform their work remotely. Here are some of the most common profiles of those who choose digital nomad Colombia as their base:

• Freelancers: Professionals offering services such as writing, graphic design, digital marketing, web development, and programming, working on projects for international clients.
• Remote Employees: Full-time employees of companies based outside of Colombia, working in fields like tech, finance, customer support, and consulting, with the flexibility to work from anywhere.
• Entrepreneurs & Business Owners: Founders of online businesses, startups, and e-commerce ventures who manage operations remotely while enjoying Colombia's affordable cost of living and digital nomad-friendly infrastructure.
• Consultants: Experts in management, education, engineering, healthcare, and business strategy who provide specialized advice to global clients and require the freedom to move between locations.
• Creative Professionals: Artists, musicians, writers, and content creators who thrive in Colombia's vibrant cultural scene while producing their work remotely.

Many digital nomads in Colombia choose this visa to experience a new culture, a lower cost of living, and a high quality of life, all while continuing their remote careers. The visa allows them to explore different parts of the country without disrupting their professional commitments.

Steps to Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa Colombia

Applying for the Colombian digital nomad visa involves several steps and detailed documentation. Here's a comprehensive overview of the application process:

• Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all the necessary criteria, including proof of remote work for a foreign company, a minimum income of COP3,900,000 per month, and valid international health insurance. A valid passport and a clean criminal record are also typically required.
• Gather Required Documents: Before starting your application, you should prepare and digitize all necessary documents. These usually include your passport, a recent passport-style photo, proof of income (such as bank statements for the last three months), proof of health insurance, and a letter from your employer or, if self-employed, a description of your business and income sources.
• Submit Online Application: The application must be submitted through the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs' online portal. Click here to visit the site. You'll need to fill out the digital form, upload your documents, and pay the application fee, which is around $52 USD.
• Wait for Processing: The processing time can vary but is generally around 30 days. During this time, you can check the status of your application online. If additional documents or corrections are needed, you'll be notified.
• Pay Visa Fee and Receive Your Visa: Upon approval, you'll need to pay a visa issuance fee, which ranges from $170 to $230 USD depending on various factors, such as whether you're applying with family members. After the fee is paid, the visa will be delivered electronically, usually within ten days.

This visa offers up to two years of residency with the possibility of renewal, allowing for a significant period of remote work within Colombia. During your stay, you're not required to pay taxes on foreign-earned income unless you spend more than 183 days in the country within a year, potentially making you a tax resident.

Why Choose Colombia Law Connection for Your Digital Nomad Visa Application?

At Colombia Law Connection, we specialize in assisting digital nomads in Colombia with their visa applications and legal needs. Navigating the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa process can be complex, but with our expertise, you can ensure a smooth, hassle-free experience. Here's why we are the best choice for handling your application:

• Expert Legal Guidance: Our team of immigration law specialists stays up to date with the latest Colombia Digital Nomad Visa regulations. We ensure that your application is accurate, compliant, and well-prepared, reducing the risk of delays or rejections.
• Native English-Speaking Team: Clear communication is key when handling legal matters. Our English-speaking attorneys eliminate language barriers, ensuring you fully understand every step of your visa application process.
• Fast & Efficient Processing: We know that time is valuable for a digital nomad in Colombia. Our in-depth knowledge of Colombian immigration procedures allows us to efficiently navigate the system and streamline your application, helping you get approved faster.
• Personalized Assistance: Every digital nomad's situation is unique. We offer tailored legal solutions that address your specific needs, challenges, and concerns, ensuring your visa application is handled with care and precision.
• Problem-Solving & Ongoing Support: If any issues arise during your application, our experienced legal team is ready to troubleshoot and resolve them quickly. We provide continuous support, keeping you informed and stress-free throughout the process.
• Peace of Mind & Stress-Free Process: Handling legal paperwork in a foreign country can be overwhelming. By choosing Colombia Law Connection, you can focus on your work and relocation, while we take care of the legal complexities of your Colombia Digital Nomad Visa.

With Colombia Law Connection, you're not just hiring a service, you're partnering with a trusted legal team that will guide you every step of the way, ensuring a successful visa application and a seamless transition into your new life in Colombia.

Start Your Journey with the Digital Nomad Visa Colombia!

Navigating the Digital Nomad Visa Colombia process doesn't have to be complicated. At Colombia Law Connection, we provide expert legal guidance to ensure a smooth and stress-free application. Whether you're a freelancer, remote worker, or entrepreneur, our team is here to help you secure your visa and start your new adventure in Colombia.