Colombia digital nomad visa: Everything you need to know

A growing wave of digital nomads is discovering that Colombia offers a dynamic environment for remote work. From the bustling streets of Bogotá to the entrepreneurial vibes of Medellín and the scenic charm of coastal towns like Cartagena, Colombia offers many prime destinations for foreign expats seeking adventure, culture, and cost-effective living. Even better, it offers an official digital nomad visa designed specifically for foreigners who want to work remotely in the country.

Whether you’re a seasoned digital nomad or someone exploring a new place to set up your laptop, the Colombian government’s program might be exactly what you need to enjoy all the unique experiences this fascinating country has to offer—without quitting your day job.

In this article, you’ll learn what the Colombia digital nomad visa entails, who’s eligible, how to start the visa application process, and the specific documents you’ll need to submit to immigration authorities. We’ll also cover the benefits of living as a digital nomad in Colombia, the main differences between this visa and a tourist visa, and answer some common questions about taxes, and more.

Does Colombia offer a digital nomad visa?

Yes. Colombia offers a special digital nomad visa for foreign professionals, remote workers, and freelancers who want to work remotely in the country without seeking local employment. The primary objective is to attract digital nomads and entrepreneurs who can bring economic activity to Colombia and contribute to its thriving international community of expats.

This Colombian visa differs from a traditional work permit because it specifically targets individuals who earn their income from foreign sources. Instead of requiring a local employment contract, the digital nomad visa permits you to continue working for your clients or employers abroad while you enjoy everything Colombia has to offer. For many digital nomads, this is a more convenient route than something like an investment visa, as it aligns better with their remote working lifestyle and does not necessarily require large amounts of capital.

4 benefits of a Colombia digital nomad visa

1. Extended stay

With a Colombia digital nomad visa, foreigners can stay in Colombia for a longer duration than typically allowed by a tourist visa. This means you can settle into a favorite neighborhood in Medellín or Bogotá—perhaps El Poblado, a popular choice for young expats in Colombia—where you can build connections and fully experience the daily life that makes this country so appealing to international expats.

2. Work legally

Unlike a tourist visa, a digital nomad visa in Colombia offers the legal framework to carry out remote work for foreign clients or companies. This is a significant advantage over the typical restrictions you might face if you simply visited Colombia on a tourist visa, which wouldn’t allow you to engage in work of any kind.

3. Cost-effective living

Many international digital nomads find Colombia to be an affordable destination. Daily expenses, from rent to dining, can be significantly lower than in other countries, making it easier to thrive on modest incomes. Whether you prefer the energetic vibe of Bogotá or the laid-back lifestyle of Caribbean coastal towns, you’ll likely find a range of budget-friendly options.

4. Networking opportunities

The influx of foreign remote workers and freelancers to Colombia has resulted in a rapidly expanding tech and coworking scene. Whether in Medellin or Bogota, you’ll discover numerous coworking spaces, regular meetups, and conferences that are perfect for forging new professional connections. It’s easy to meet like-minded digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and expats who can help you explore innovative ideas or collaborate on new projects.

Advantages of living in Colombia as a digital nomad

There are many reasons why digital nomads are choosing Colombia as a work destination. Here are a few of the most common ones:

• Affordable cost of living: From groceries to rent, many major cities in Colombia can be easier on your wallet than comparable destinations in other countries.
• Warm climate and natural beauty: Whether you love the spring-like weather of Medellín, the cosmopolitan charm of Bogotá, or the coastal allure of Cartagena, there’s a climate and scenic backdrop for just about everyone.
• Accessible travel options: Traveling to Colombia has become simpler thanks to multiple international flights and well-connected domestic airlines. It’s also a great jumping-off point for visiting neighboring countries in Latin America.
• Fast-growing digital nomad community: The trend of the Medellin digital nomad is real—the expat community in Colombia is thriving. You’ll encounter coworking hubs and cafés bustling with remote workers from all over the world.

Colombia digital nomad visa eligibility

To qualify for a Colombia digital nomad visa, the applicant must have a valid passport from a country exempt from needing a short-stay visa in Colombia. Those countries include (but are not limited to):

• United States
• Germany
• Australia
• Canada
• Spain
• Indonesia
• Portugal

Applicants also typically need to fit into one of the following categories:

• Remote workers or freelancers working with foreign companies or clients.
• Entrepreneurs with digital-focused businesses who want to operate in Colombia but do not plan to engage in local employment.

In many cases, immigration authorities will want to confirm that your source of income comes from abroad rather than from a Colombian employer.

Colombia digital nomad visa requirements

If you’re gearing up for a Colombia digital nomad visa, here are some main requirements to keep in mind:

• Proof of remote work or freelancing for at least six months: This may include client contracts, reference letters, or an official letter in Spanish or English describing your remote work arrangement. If you’re an entrepreneur, you can submit a motivational letter explaining your work and how it will support your lifestyle in Colombia.
• A valid passport: Make sure your passport is current for the duration of your planned stay.
• Passport style photo with a white background.
• Minimum income: The threshold is at least $900 USD per month. You’ll likely need documents such as bank statements or invoices to prove this monthly income.
• Health insurance covering Colombia: Your coverage should include medical expenses within the country, as well as repatriation to your home country if necessary.
• Proof of your relationship to any dependents, if applicable.

Visa requirements can change, so always double-check the latest details from the Colombian consulate or the country’s official immigration website to make sure you have the most up-to-date information.

Colombia digital nomad visa application

Below is a step-by-step look at how to begin your visa application for the Colombia digital nomad visa. Generally, you’ll have to submit all required documents through an online portal or at a Colombian consulate abroad.

Step 1: Check eligibility

Before you invest time in collecting documents, verify that you meet the basic criteria: Are you a digital nomad working with foreign clients or companies? Can you demonstrate the required income?

Step 2: Prepare the required documents

Compile your passport, bank statements, insurance policy details (including repatriation coverage), and proof of remote work. You might need a formal letter in Spanish explaining your remote work arrangement and how you meet the minimum income of $900 USD per month.

Step 3: Submit your application

Start your online visa application, which can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ online portal. Alternatively, you can visit your nearest Colombian consulate to apply. Be meticulous about uploading the correct documents. Missing even a single required file can delay the process.

Step 4: Pay the application fee

A visa application fee is required to move your application forward. The exact amount can vary, depending on the exchange rate between Colombian pesos and USD at the time you apply, but it’s generally around $50 USD. Keep in mind there may be additional charges if you’re submitting from a consulate abroad.

Step 5: Wait for approval 

Processing times can range from a few days to a couple of weeks. The immigration authorities in Bogotá will review your visa application and notify you of any additional documents needed.

Step 6: Receive your visa and pay visa fees

Once approved, you’ll need to pay the visa fee before receiving your visa, which can range between $170-230 USD, depending on exchange rates at the time. Once you’ve paid, you’ll get your Colombia digital nomad visa electronically or via a stamp in your passport. Make sure you know whether you must go to Bogota or a local consulate to finalize your visa. Then, you’re permitted to live and work remotely in Colombia under the specific terms outlined by the visa.

Colombia digital nomad visa restrictions

While Colombia’s digital nomad visa offers flexibility to remote workers, there are some key restrictions:

Employment restrictions

You cannot take up local employment with a Colombian company, as the digital nomad visa is designed for foreign remote workers who provide services to clients abroad.

Length of stay

The digital nomad visa allows stays of up to two years. Keep in mind, though, that exceeding the allowed time may lead to penalties or future immigration complications.

Income requirements

You’ll have to maintain the minimum income threshold ($900 USD/month) throughout your stay. Falling below the threshold could jeopardize your visa status.

Travel restrictions

While traveling to Colombia is relatively simple, repeatedly leaving and re-entering the country can raise flags if immigration authorities suspect you’re abusing the visa. Check the latest official guidelines to ensure you understand how many times you can exit and re-enter on a digital nomad visa.

Compliance and obligations

Maintaining valid health insurance, continuing to meet the income requirements, and avoiding unauthorized activities (like taking on local jobs) are part of your obligations as a digital nomad under this visa. You’re responsible for consistent adherence to avoid legal issues.

Colombia digital nomad visa vs. tourist visa

While both a tourist visa and a digital nomad visa allow foreigners to stay in Colombia, each serves a distinct purpose and there are key differences between them:

• Duration of stay: A tourist visa generally offers a shorter duration—generally up to 180 days—while the digital nomad visa can allow you to stay for up to two years.
• Activities permitted: On a tourist visa, you’re typically not legally allowed to work remotely for extended periods. The digital nomad visa, on the other hand, explicitly permits you to engage in remote work for foreign entities.
• Income verification: A tourist visa does not require you to prove a monthly income, whereas the digital nomad visa does.

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Colombia digital nomad visa FAQs

Do digital nomads pay tax in Colombia?

Tax rules can be complex. Digital nomads who spend more than half of the tax year in Colombia may be considered tax residents, depending on specific income and immigration factors. Consult a local tax professional to make sure you’re fully compliant.

How long does it take to get a digital nomad visa in Colombia?

Processing times vary, but most applicants can expect a timeframe of one to three weeks once they’ve submitted all proper documents and paid the necessary application fee and visa fee.

What is the easiest country to get a digital nomad visa?

It can differ based on your personal situation and income level. Besides Colombia, many other countries in Latin America, Europe, and Asia also provide digital nomad visas—and these types of visas are becoming more and more common as countries strive to attract remote workers who can stimulate their economies without taking away local jobs. There are pros and cons in each country, however, and your preference might depend on factors like cost of living, community, climate, and how smoothly the local authorities handle visa applications.

This blog is based on information available to Rippling as of January 15, 2025.

Disclaimer: Rippling and its affiliates do not provide tax, accounting, or legal advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide or be relied on for tax, accounting, or legal advice. You should consult your own tax, accounting, and legal advisors before engaging in any related activities or transactions.