Digital Nomad Visa in Colombia: Everything You Need to Know in 2025 -

Picture this: you’re sipping coffee in a cozy Bogotá café, the Andes mountains just outside the window, while working on your laptop. Dreamy, right? This could be your reality if you’re considering moving to Colombia as a digital nomad. I’ve dug deep into the process of getting a digital nomad visa for Colombia in 2025 and here’s everything you need to know! From the eligibility requirements to how to apply, I’ll guide you through the whole process step by step. Ready? Let’s jump in!

What Is the Digital Nomad Visa for Colombia?

Colombia has quickly become one of the top destinations for remote workers, and the introduction of the Digital Nomad Visa has made it even easier for digital nomads to live and work in this beautiful country. Whether you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, or remote employee, this visa is specifically tailored to make your stay in Colombia hassle-free while continuing to work for clients or companies outside the country.

A Relatively New Visa with Growing Popularity

Launched in 2022, the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa was created to cater to the growing number of remote workers and entrepreneurs who want to live in Colombia without the complexities of traditional work visas. Since its introduction, this visa has gained significant attention, especially as more and more people realize the benefits of working remotely and living in a country with a great climate, vibrant culture, and an affordable cost of living. It’s also important to note that, because this visa is relatively new, there might be occasional updates or changes in the application process. It’s always a good idea to stay in the loop with the latest requirements.

Why Choose Colombia as Your Base for Remote Work?

Colombia has become an increasingly popular choice for remote workers and digital nomads for several reasons. The country offers a low cost of living compared to many other places in the world, which means your money can go much further. Whether you’re renting an apartment in Medellín, enjoying a coffee in Bogotá, or exploring the beaches of Cartagena, Colombia allows you to live comfortably without breaking the bank.

The weather is another big draw. Colombia is located near the equator, meaning it enjoys pleasant, warm temperatures year-round. You can escape the harsh winters or scorching summers that many other parts of the world experience, and enjoy consistently mild and comfortable conditions. In cities like Medellín, often referred to as the “City of Eternal Spring,” the climate is perfect for year-round outdoor activities.

Of course, we can’t forget the vibrant culture that Colombia has to offer. The country is rich in history, music, and dance, and it’s known for its incredibly friendly locals. As a digital nomad, you’ll have countless opportunities to immerse yourself in local culture and make meaningful connections with fellow expats and Colombians alike.

What Makes the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa Unique?

One of the most unique aspects of the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is the flexibility it offers. The visa allows you to live in Colombia for up to 2 years, with the possibility of renewal, all while working for companies or clients located outside the country. This is especially appealing to digital nomads who want to experience life in a new country without the restrictions that come with other types of work visas.

Unlike many traditional work visas, this one doesn’t require you to pay Colombian taxes as long as your income is derived from foreign sources. That means you can focus on your work and enjoy life in Colombia without worrying about complex tax regulations. However, it’s important to always double-check with an expert or local advisor to ensure you’re staying compliant with all regulations, just to be on the safe side.

For freelancers, remote workers, and entrepreneurs, this visa is an incredible opportunity to establish a base in Colombia without the need for a long-term commitment or the complexities of dealing with local employers. If you’re running a business abroad, freelancing for international clients, or working remotely for a company outside of Colombia, the Digital Nomad Visa is an ideal option to enjoy the benefits of living in this vibrant country while continuing your professional journey.

How Does the Visa Benefit You as a Digital Nomad?

The ability to work remotely while living in a country like Colombia, with its affordable lifestyle and cultural richness, is a huge plus for digital nomads. The visa allows you to experience all the perks of Colombian life without worrying about finding local employment or paying unnecessary taxes.

This visa is particularly attractive to freelancers and entrepreneurs, who can continue to manage their projects from Colombia. Whether you’re designing websites, offering consulting services, or running an online business, the Digital Nomad Visa gives you the freedom to focus on your work without worrying about your visa status.

And for remote employees, it’s a game-changer. If your company allows you to work from anywhere, the Digital Nomad Visa allows you to settle into Colombia without needing to deal with complicated visa processes that could interfere with your job.

By obtaining this visa, you’re also choosing to base yourself in a country with high-speed internet, plenty of coworking spaces, and a growing community of like-minded digital nomads. Many cities in Colombia, especially Medellín, have become hubs for digital nomads, so you’ll have no trouble finding support, networking opportunities, and community events to keep you connected and inspired.

Whether you’re looking to work from a cozy café in Bogotá or a coworking space in Medellín, the Digital Nomad Visa offers the flexibility and ease you need to make the most of your remote work lifestyle. It’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting to build a balance between work and life in a destination that offers so much to explore.

In short, the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is an excellent option for remote workers looking for a new base. With its easy application process, affordable living, beautiful landscapes, and welcoming culture, it’s no wonder that so many digital nomads are choosing Colombia as their next destination.

Who Qualifies for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa?

One of the best things about the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is that it’s designed to be inclusive and accessible to a wide range of remote workers. Whether you’re freelancing, working for an international company, or running your own business from abroad, this visa could be a perfect fit for you. Let’s dive into the details of who exactly qualifies for this visa and what you need to do to ensure you’re eligible.

Remote Workers: A Perfect Fit for Those Working from Anywhere

If you’re a remote worker, you’re in luck! This visa was specifically designed with you in mind. As long as you work for a company that is based outside of Colombia, you’re eligible to apply for the Digital Nomad Visa. Whether you’re employed full-time, part-time, or even on a contract basis, as long as your work is remote and your employer or clients are outside Colombia, you’re good to go.

For example, if you’re working for a tech company based in the U.S. but your work can be done online, you can live and work in Colombia under this visa without any worries about local employment regulations. It gives you the flexibility to choose where you want to live while maintaining your job and responsibilities abroad.

Remote work is increasingly common in the modern world, and this visa embraces that shift. It’s perfect for software developers, content creators, digital marketers, and anyone else whose work can be done from a laptop with an internet connection.

Freelancers and Contractors: If You Earn Money from Foreign Clients, This Is for You

Freelancers and contractors are also prime candidates for the Digital Nomad Visa. If you work independently, managing your own clients and projects, and most of your income comes from outside Colombia, you’re eligible to apply.

Whether you’re a graphic designer, copywriter, consultant, or translator, as long as you’re earning from foreign clients, you can take advantage of this visa. The beauty of freelancing is that it often allows you to work from anywhere in the world, and this visa makes it even easier to do so in Colombia.

As a freelancer, you’re also likely used to managing multiple clients and juggling different projects. The Digital Nomad Visa gives you the flexibility to continue doing what you do best without needing to worry about complicated visa applications or local tax laws. Just make sure you keep track of your contracts and payments, as you’ll need to prove your foreign income when applying.

Entrepreneurs: Running a Business from Abroad? You’re All Set!

If you’re an entrepreneur with a business that operates from outside Colombia, you’re also eligible for the Digital Nomad Visa. Whether you own a startup, manage an online store, or run a consulting business from abroad, this visa lets you live and work in Colombia while continuing to manage your business remotely.

Colombia is known for its growing startup ecosystem, especially in cities like Medellín, which has become a popular destination for entrepreneurs and digital nomads alike. The visa supports those who are running their businesses from abroad and want to take advantage of Colombia’s affordable living, business-friendly environment, and growing network of entrepreneurs. If you’re someone who’s already managing a business and you’re looking for a new place to live, work, and network, Colombia could be your next perfect base.

The beauty of this visa for entrepreneurs is that you don’t have to be physically present in your home country to keep running your business. As long as you’re earning money from foreign sources, you can take your business to Colombia and enjoy all the benefits of living there while managing your company.

Income Requirements: Prove Your Financial Stability

While the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is relatively easy to qualify for, there are a few income requirements that you’ll need to meet. Specifically, you must show that you earn at least three times the minimum wage in Colombia. Currently, the minimum wage in Colombia is around COP 1,160,000 (about USD $250) per month, so you’ll need to prove that you’re making at least USD $750 to $1,000 per month, depending on the current exchange rate.

This income requirement is designed to ensure that digital nomads can support themselves while living in Colombia, and it’s not too difficult to meet for many remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs. If you’re working for an international company or managing a business that brings in a decent income, proving this shouldn’t be an issue.

You can easily show proof of income by submitting your bank statements, contracts, or payment receipts from your foreign clients or employer. Make sure that your income is consistent and verifiable to ensure a smooth application process.

In Short: If You’re Working for a Company or Freelancing Abroad, You’re Likely Eligible

To sum up, if you’re working remotely for a company outside of Colombia or freelancing online, you’re likely eligible for the Digital Nomad Visa. This visa is incredibly flexible, catering to a range of remote workers, freelancers, contractors, and entrepreneurs. As long as you can prove that your income comes from foreign sources and meets the required amount, you’re all set to apply!

The application process is relatively straightforward, but just remember to gather all the necessary documents, including proof of employment, contracts, and income, to ensure you meet all the qualifications. Whether you’re ready to escape the cold winters of your home country, experience a new culture, or simply enjoy the benefits of working remotely, the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa offers an excellent opportunity to live and work in a beautiful, affordable, and dynamic country.

How to Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa

Applying for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is a relatively straightforward process, but you’ll want to make sure you have all your documents in order before you start. While the visa itself is easy to qualify for, missing paperwork or small errors can slow things down. So, to help you avoid any headaches, here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to getting your application submitted and approved smoothly.

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

Before you start the application process, make sure you have all the required documents ready. This will save you time and ensure that you don’t run into any unnecessary delays.

Essential Documents for the Digital Nomad Visa

Proof of Employment or Freelance Contracts
You need to show that you work for a foreign company or have freelance clients outside of Colombia. This can be an employment contract, invoices, or a letter from your employer confirming your remote work status.
Bank Statements Showing Your Income
Colombia requires you to earn at least three times the minimum wage (around $750 to $1,000 USD per month). The best way to prove this is by submitting bank statements from the last three to six months. If you’re a freelancer, having consistent deposits from clients will help strengthen your case.
Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Colombia. Also, ensure you have empty pages for visa stamps if required.
Passport-Sized Photo
A recent passport-style photo (usually 3×4 cm) will be needed for your application. Some online services allow you to generate this at home if you don’t have one ready.
Proof of Health Insurance
You must have international health insurance that covers you for the entire duration of your stay. Plans typically cost between $50–$100 per month, and your insurance policy should specifically mention coverage in Colombia.
Letter of Intent (Recommended but Not Always Required)
Some applicants choose to submit a letter explaining why they want to live in Colombia, how they plan to support themselves, and how they meet the visa requirements. While this isn’t always necessary, it can help strengthen your application.

Step 2: Submit Your Application Online

Once you have all your documents, it’s time to apply!

Go to Colombia’s official immigration website (Migración Colombia).
Find the section for the Digital Nomad Visa (Visa Tipo V).
Fill out the online application form, providing your personal details and uploading the required documents.
Pay the application fee, which is usually between $50–$100 USD, depending on processing times.

Step 3: Wait for Approval (and Be Patient)

The approval process typically takes two weeks to a month, but this depends on how busy the system is. While you wait, here are a few things you should do:

Keep an eye on your email—Immigration may request additional documents.
Follow up if necessary—If you haven’t heard back after a few weeks, you can check your application status on the Colombian immigration website.
Consider hiring an immigration consultant—This is what I did, and it saved me time and stress. A local visa agent can make sure your paperwork is perfect and help you avoid unnecessary delays.

Step 4: Get Your Visa and Start Your Life in Colombia

Once your application is approved, you’re officially ready to live and work remotely in Colombia! You’ll receive a visa approval email, and depending on the process, you might need to pick up your visa from a Colombian consulate or have it stamped upon arrival in the country.

At this point, you’re all set! Grab your laptop, pack your bags, and get ready to experience Colombia’s amazing digital nomad lifestyle.

How Much Does It Cost to Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa?

When considering a move to Colombia, it’s important to know the costs involved in obtaining the Digital Nomad Visa. Luckily, the application process is fairly straightforward, but there are a few costs you’ll need to keep in mind. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand what you’re getting into, so there are no surprises along the way.

Application Fees for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa

The application fee for the Digital Nomad Visa typically ranges from $50 to $100 USD. The cost can vary based on the processing time you choose, as well as the type of visa you’re applying for. For example, some expedited options might cost a little more, but the standard process is usually pretty affordable. When applying online through Colombia’s immigration portal, you’ll pay this fee upfront, and it covers your visa processing.

Health Insurance Costs

One cost that might sneak up on you is health insurance. For most visa applications, you’ll need to provide proof of health insurance coverage while you’re in Colombia. This is a requirement for the Digital Nomad Visa, and the cost can vary depending on your provider and the level of coverage you select. Generally, you can expect to pay around $50 to $100 per month for a basic plan.

Now, I know that sounds like a recurring cost, but it’s an essential part of the process. It’s also important to note that the Colombian government requires you to have coverage during your stay, so this is something you definitely don’t want to overlook. I personally found it reassuring to know I had health coverage while living abroad, especially since you’re required to prove it when you apply.

The Cost of Working with a Visa Agent (Optional)

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the paperwork or the idea of navigating the immigration system in a foreign country, you might want to consider hiring a visa agent. This isn’t a mandatory expense, but if you’re like me and want peace of mind during the process, it can be worth the investment.

A visa agent typically helps with submitting your application, ensuring all the paperwork is in order, and guiding you through any tricky steps. Depending on the agent you choose, their services could cost anywhere from $100 to $300 USD. I personally worked with an agent to make sure I didn’t miss anything, and it made the process so much smoother. If you’re tech-savvy and comfortable with online forms, though, you might be able to save that cost by handling the application yourself.

Other Potential Costs to Consider

In addition to the primary fees, there are a couple of other costs to keep in mind when planning for your Digital Nomad Visa. While not all of them are mandatory, it’s smart to be prepared for a few extra expenses that might come up.

Translation Services: If any of your documents are not in Spanish, you may need to get them translated. Some visa applicants opt for professional translation services to ensure their documents are properly understood. This can cost anywhere from $20 to $50 per document, depending on what’s required.
Travel Costs: While this isn’t directly related to the visa itself, it’s important to factor in the cost of getting to Colombia. Flights can vary widely depending on your departure point and the time of year, so it’s a good idea to plan your travel budget ahead of time.

Final Takeaway

In total, you’re looking at around $200 to $500 USD in upfront costs to get the Digital Nomad Visa for Colombia, including application fees, health insurance, and optional agent fees. Of course, it’s always smart to budget a little extra in case of unforeseen expenses, but compared to other countries offering similar visas, Colombia remains one of the more affordable options for remote workers.

When I went through the process, I felt like the costs were reasonable, especially considering the lifestyle Colombia offers. With the stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and welcoming community, the investment felt more than worth it. Whether you’re working remotely or freelancing from a cozy café in Medellín or Bogotá, the visa gives you the flexibility to live and work in a beautiful country without the usual visa hassles.

Benefits of Living in Colombia as a Digital Nomad

Moving to Colombia as a digital nomad is an exciting opportunity. Whether you’re looking for affordable living, a vibrant culture, or fast WiFi, Colombia has something for everyone. The country has quickly become one of the top destinations for remote workers, thanks to its low cost of living, great weather, and growing expat community.

Here’s why Colombia is an amazing place to live as a digital nomad.

Affordable Cost of Living

One of the biggest advantages of living in Colombia is that you can enjoy a high quality of life at a fraction of the cost compared to North America or Europe.

Rent is cheap—You can find a fully furnished apartment in Medellín for as little as $500–$800 per month in trendy neighborhoods like El Poblado or Laureles.
Food is super affordable—You can eat out at a local restaurant for $3–$5 USD, or go for a nice dinner at a fancy place for $15–$25 USD.
Public transport is efficient and cheap—A metro ticket in Medellín costs less than $1 USD, and taxis or ride-hailing services like DiDi and Uber are very affordable.
Coworking spaces are budget-friendly—For around $100–$150 per month, you can get a spot at some of the best coworking spaces in Colombia.

Whether you’re earning in USD, EUR, or GBP, your money will go a long way here.

Amazing Weather Year-Round

Colombia’s geography is incredibly diverse, meaning you can pick the perfect climate for your lifestyle.

Medellín (the “City of Eternal Spring”)—If you love mild, spring-like weather all year round, this is the place for you.
Bogotá—If you prefer a cooler climate, Bogotá offers fresh, crisp air in a high-altitude setting.
Cartagena and Santa Marta—If you love beach life and tropical heat, these coastal cities will be perfect for you.

There’s no need to deal with harsh winters or crazy summer heat—just choose your ideal spot!

Strong Digital Nomad and Expat Community

Colombia has become a hotspot for remote workers, and cities like Medellín, Bogotá, and Cali have thriving digital nomad scenes.

Coworking spaces everywhere—You’ll find coworking spots like Selina, WeWork, and Atom House, where you can work and network with like-minded people.
Meetups and networking events—There are plenty of expat meetups, language exchanges, and tech/startup events happening all the time.
Lots of international influences—Because so many foreigners move here, you’ll find a great mix of cultures, from Americans and Europeans to Australians and Asians.

If you want to meet people, collaborate, or even start a business in Colombia, you’ll have no problem finding your tribe.

Great Food and Coffee

If you love good food and amazing coffee, Colombia will not disappoint.

Traditional Colombian food—Try bandeja paisa (hearty meat platter), arepas (corn cakes), empanadas, and sancocho (Colombian soup).
Tropical fruits everywhere—You’ll find mango, guanábana, maracuyá (passion fruit), and lulo at super cheap prices.
World-class coffee—Colombia is famous for its coffee culture, and you can visit coffee farms in places like Salento, Manizales, and Jardin to experience it firsthand.

Whether you’re grabbing a fresh juice on the street or sipping espresso in a hipster café, Colombia’s food and drink scene is a treat.

Easy and Cheap Travel Around the Country

Colombia is a huge and diverse country, and traveling domestically is both affordable and convenient.

Domestic flights are cheap—You can fly between major cities for $30–$60 USD with airlines like Viva Air and Avianca.
Buses are an adventure—If you’re up for a road trip, long-distance buses are an affordable way to explore places like Salento, Guatapé, or Tayrona National Park.
Plenty of weekend getaways—From the Amazon rainforest to the Caribbean beaches, there’s always a new destination to explore.

No matter where you base yourself, you’ll have tons of travel opportunities within Colombia.

Super-Friendly Locals and a Rich Culture

Colombians are incredibly warm and welcoming, and if you make an effort to learn some Spanish, you’ll have no trouble making friends.

Colombians love to socialize—You’ll get invited to family gatherings, BBQs, and salsa nights before you know it.
Salsa dancing is everywhere—If you love music and dancing, cities like Cali and Medellín have incredible nightlife and salsa culture.
Spanish immersion opportunities—If you want to learn or improve your Spanish, living in Colombia is the perfect opportunity.

Colombia’s culture is a mix of Afro-Caribbean, Indigenous, and European influences, making it one of the most vibrant and unique places in South America.

Reliable Internet and Great Workspaces

For digital nomads, fast and reliable WiFi is a must—and Colombia delivers.

Internet speeds are solid—Most cities offer fiber-optic connections, with speeds of 100 Mbps or more in major urban areas.
Affordable coworking spaces—For around $100–$150 USD per month, you can get a spot in a great coworking space with a strong internet connection.
Cafés with WiFi everywhere—You’ll always find a cozy café with good coffee and solid WiFi to work from.

Whether you’re taking Zoom calls, coding, writing, or managing a team remotely, Colombia has everything you need to stay productive.

A Laid-Back Lifestyle with a Low-Stress Vibe

One of the best things about Colombia is its easy-going, relaxed atmosphere.

People enjoy life—Colombians know how to balance work and play, and the stress levels are way lower than in most Western countries.
Work-life balance is better—With affordable living costs, you don’t have to hustle 24/7 just to make ends meet.
Outdoor lifestyle—Whether it’s hiking, swimming, or just chilling in a plaza, Colombians spend a lot of time outdoors.

If you’re tired of the fast-paced, high-stress lifestyle, Colombia is a great place to slow down and enjoy life while still being productive.

Is Colombia the Right Place for You?

If you’re looking for a beautiful, affordable, and exciting place to live and work remotely, Colombia should definitely be on your list. With its low cost of living, great weather, strong expat community, and digital nomad-friendly vibe, it’s easy to see why so many remote workers are choosing to make Colombia their home base.

Why Colombia Should Be Your Next Digital Nomad Destination

Choosing Colombia as your digital nomad base is more than just a travel decision—it’s a lifestyle upgrade. With its low cost of living, incredible landscapes, fast-growing remote work infrastructure, and warm, welcoming culture, this country is quickly becoming one of the best places for location-independent professionals.

If you’re looking for a destination that offers affordability, adventure, and a solid work-life balance, Colombia has it all.

A Simple Visa Process for a Life-Changing Move

Unlike some countries where visa applications can be complicated and restrictive, Colombia’s digital nomad visa is fairly straightforward. As long as you meet the income requirements and provide the right documentation, you can secure your visa and start your journey in one of the most exciting and diverse countries in Latin America.

No need for company sponsorship—If you’re a freelancer or remote worker for a foreign company, you qualify.
Minimal bureaucracy—Compared to many other visa programs, Colombia’s process is relatively quick and simple.
Renewable options—Once you’re in, you can explore opportunities to extend your stay or transition to a long-term visa.

The process isn’t overwhelming, but preparation is key. Many nomads (myself included) recommend working with a local immigration consultant to make sure everything is in order.

Colombia Is More Than Just a Place to Work

While remote work and good WiFi are important, Colombia offers so much more than just a practical base for digital nomads.

The lifestyle is unbeatable—From laid-back beach towns to bustling city life, you can choose an environment that suits your vibe.
The cost of living lets you live well—Instead of just scraping by in an overpriced city, you can afford a comfortable, enjoyable life here.
It’s easy to make friends and connections—Whether you’re into business networking, creative collaborations, or just having fun, you’ll never feel isolated.
Every day feels like an adventure—Hiking in the Andes, swimming in Caribbean waters, or sipping world-class coffee in the countryside—there’s no shortage of things to do.

Colombia is more than just a temporary stop for many digital nomads—it’s a place where people set down roots, start businesses, or even make it their long-term home.

Is Colombia Your Next Digital Nomad Destination?

If you’re searching for a place that combines adventure, affordability, and a strong digital nomad community, Colombia might be exactly what you need. The visa process is manageable, the cost of living is incredibly attractive, and the quality of life is hard to beat.

Have you been considering Colombia as your next digital nomad base? Or have you already made the move? If you’ve gone through the visa process, lived in Colombia, or have tips to share, I’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment below and let’s chat about the digital nomad experience in Colombia.