Remote work changed the way we travel and live. But, for the digital nomad looking for a fun, cheap, and different place, Colombia has one thing no other place can offer: the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa.
Really, this is a way for remote workers and self-employed workers to stay in Colombia. But how do you apply it, and what makes it so attractive? Let’s find out.
What is the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa?
The Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is for remote workers. It lets them live and work in Colombia without a local employer. Mainly, they created it to attract talent to the country. Also, it would let self-employed workers, remote workers, and business owners enjoy Colombia. It would also help the country’s money system. This is a very important visa that offers:
- The ability to work legally remotely for companies outside Colombia.
- Access to a quite low cost of living in Colombia, combined with decent basic services.
- Chances for meeting people with other digital nomads and people living in another country.
Eligibility Requirements for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa
Before applying, make sure that you meet the needs that the officials have laid down. So, the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is for many remote workers. But, it has some needs.
Remote Work or Freelance Employment
People who apply must show they work for a company outside Colombia or have contracts with foreign clients. Really, proof of work from a distance is very important.
Minimum Income
Clearly, the amount against the income is also very steady. People who apply must prove earnings of at least three times the Colombian lowest wage or US$ 900 per month.
Health Insurance
You will need current international health insurance to cover you during your stay in Colombia. Most importantly, this covers you for health emergencies.
Valid Passport
Your passport should be current for at least six months from the date of your expected stay.
No Criminal Record
You must have a clean criminal record. This can be shown by requesting a background check from the Colombian authorities.
Proof of Remote Work
You must provide documents to show your remote work. These include employment contracts, bank statements, or a letter from your employer.
Application Fee
During the steps, one also has to pay a visa form fee that you can’t get back. In many cases, fees may be different, but they are usually cheaper than other countries’ digital nomad visas.
Required Documents for Your Colombia Digital Nomad Visa Application
Having the right documents ready is very important for a smooth visa form process. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Current Passport: A scanned copy of the photo page of your passport.
- Proof of Income: Recent bank statements or pay slips that show you meet the lowest level for income.
- Proof of Employment or Self-employed Work: Copy of an employment contract or agreements with clients.
- Health Insurance Policy: A policy is a document that explains your coverage.
- Criminal Record Certificate: A police check or background check from your home country.
- Visa Form for Visa: This is normally done online, via the border control website of Colombia.
- Visa Form Fee Payment Proof of payment: Proof of payment that you have made regarding the visa form fee.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa
Going through the visa form process is simple if you follow these steps:
- Gather Your Documents: Make sure all your documents are ready and, if needed, translated into Spanish.
- Apply Online: Use the Colombian border control office’s website to apply.
- Pay the Visa Form Fee: You can do this online or at a Colombian embassy office.
- Wait for Checking: The average checking times go from 10 to 30 days.
- Get Your Visa: Once they accept your visa form, you’ll get a digital visa to travel and start your Colombian adventure.
Application Process Timeline: What to Expect
Visa checking times are quite fast, considering most countries in the world. On average:
- Initial Review: This takes about 5 to 10 business days.
- Additional Document Requests: This can add up to a week in the time plan.
- Last Approval: It is usually done within 30 days.
Cost Breakdown: Fees and Expenses for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa
Knowing the costs is important for money planning. Here’s a detail:
- Visa Form Fee: About USD 100.
- Health Insurance: $50–100 per month, depending on your plan.
- Living Costs: In Colombia, the average monthly costs are about USD 1,000–1,500, covering rent, food, and transportation.
Cost of Living in Colombia for Digital Nomads
Colombia is the top dream destination. Really, it has a low cost of living and a fun lifestyle. Top Cities in Colombia for Digital Nomads
- Medellín: You will find it commonly referred to as the City of Eternal Spring since it is quite affordable. So, you can expect excellent weather along with a large number of people living in another country.
- Bogotá: The capital offers a mix of cultural, shared office spaces, and urban charm.
- Cartagena: A coastal gem with beautiful beaches and colonial architecture.
- Cali: It is a city that provides the perfect atmosphere for relaxed people and salsa dancing culture.
Colombia has good internet, mainly in major cities. Also, there are plenty of coworking spaces including:
- WeWork Medellín: More popular among professionals.
- Selina Bogotá: It combines coworking and social areas.
- HubBOG: Coworking space with high technology in Bogotá.
Additionally, you can also enjoy a stable connection in this beautiful country through the use of eSIMs such as those offered by Yoho Mobile.
Extending Your Stay: How to Renew the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa
If you fall in love with Colombia, as many do, it’s quite easy to make longer your stay. The Colombia Digital Nomad Visa will usually not go over two years. Extensions are possible if one meets the needs.
To extend your visa, you will need updated versions of the original visa form documents, including:
- Proof of income, showing a continued stable money situation.
- A newly made health insurance policy will be current for the extended time of your stay.
- Proof of continued remote work: The employment letter, contracts, and business registration are good examples.
Renewal Process Tips to Consider:
- Apply Before End Date: You should begin to extend your visa form at least 30 days before the expiry of the currently held visa.
- New Visa Form: You must send your extension request to the same website where you uploaded your visa form. Also, include the required documents.
- Pay the Renewal Fee: We will apply a checking fee, just as we did when you first applied.
- Wait for Approval: Extension checking generally takes less time and usually takes 10–15 business days.
You can easily make longer your time in Colombia. So, just stay organized and be ready early. This won’t interrupt your work or lifestyle.
Benefits of Choosing Colombia as Your Digital Nomad Destination
Colombia is the top destination for remote workers. It offers a special mix of low cost, culture, and good basic services. Here’s what makes it great:
Affordable Cost of Living
The cost of living in Colombia is a far cry from that of North America or Europe. In fact, you can have good medical care, dining, and travel at low cost. They can keep you comfortable without breaking your wallet.
Vibrant Expat and Digital Nomad Communities
Cities like Medellín and Bogotá have lively expat communities. They’re social, with many meetups, workshops, and events. Through these networks, friendships and the sharing of work-related ideas become easily possible.
Good Internet Connectivity
Colombia’s money put into phone and internet services means you can stay connected anywhere. Fiber-optic internet and a growing coworking culture make working from a distance easy.
Warm Climate and Beautiful Landscapes
From the sun-drenched beaches of Cartagena to the green hills of the Coffee Triangle, Colombia has something for everyone. Its climate and scenery are perfect for all tastes. During their free time, people who like being outside visitors can enjoy hiking, diving, and many other activities.
Cultural and Social Diversity
Colombia’s mix of native, European, and African roots creates a fun cultural mix. Whether it’s music, dance, or food, you’ll find something exciting to explore every day.
Easy Visa Process for Remote Workers
Colombia’s digital nomad visa process is simple and cheap. So, it’s open to many people who apply.
Well-Connected Transport System
Colombia’s major cities have a very large bus network and frequent flights. So, this makes it easy to explore the country.
Tax Benefits for Foreign Income
The digital nomad visa does not charge foreign income from Colombian tax. So, this is a big financial benefit.
Rich Social Life and Entertainment Options
Nightlife, festivals, and food are nothing but awesome in Colombia. Be it salsa dancing in Cali or dining at a world-class restaurant in Bogotá, there’s always something to do.
Safety Improvements
Though Colombia’s past what people thought for safety kept many away, it has improved over the last 10 years. Tourist-heavy cities have safe areas and a friendly vibe for foreigners.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them as a Digital Nomad in Colombia
While Colombia offers a lot of good things, moving to a new country is not always easy. So, here are some common problems and plans for solving them:
Languages Barriers
Colombia’s main language is Spanish. Most people in big cities speak basic English. Still, knowing Spanish would help while you’re there. Consider taking language classes or using language apps like Duolingo to build your skills.
Official Rules
Some steps in the government of Colombia can be very complicated at times. So, a locally trusted visa advisor or lawyer would make the steps of applying easier and less hard.
Safety Issues
Colombia is much safer than it was. Still, be alert in unfamiliar areas. So, stay in well-known neighborhoods and use either Uber or main taxis.
Getting Used to the Local Lifestyle
Colombians are warm and friendly. But, it may take time to get used to their culture. Things like different times of day may be a problem. Just be patient and enjoy the local way of life. Let these wrinkles be part of the adventure. This will prepare you for any problems. So, you will easily settle into life in Colombia and make the most of your digital nomad experience.
