What Is Colombia's Digital Nomad Visa?
Introduced in 2022, Colombia's Visa de Nómada Digital (DN) allows remote workers and freelancers to live legally in Colombia for up to 2 years. It does not permit local employment — you must earn income from clients or employers outside Colombia. There is no path from this visa to permanent residency, but it can be renewed and is one of the most accessible legal options for remote workers worldwide.
Step 1: Confirm You Qualify
You qualify if you:
- Work remotely for a company or clients based outside Colombia
- Earn at least 3x the Colombian monthly minimum wage (approximately $684 USD/month as of 2026 — verify current rate at cancilleria.gov.co)
- Hold a valid passport from any country
Freelancers qualify. Employees of foreign companies qualify. Colombian-registered businesses do not qualify for this visa category.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
Prepare the following before starting your application:
- Valid passport: At least 6 months validity beyond your intended stay
- Proof of income: Last 3 months of bank statements showing consistent income, plus employment contract or freelance contracts
- Employer letter: On company letterhead confirming remote work arrangement and salary (if employed)
- Passport photo: Recent, white background, digital format
Step 3: Get International Health Insurance
Colombia requires health insurance coverage valid in Colombia for the full duration of your visa. This is non-negotiable. Major providers accepted include SafetyWing, Cigna Global, Allianz, and AXA. Purchase your policy before applying — you will need the policy document and proof of coverage dates.
Step 4: Obtain a Criminal Background Check
You need an official criminal background check from your home country, apostilled (internationally certified). In the US this is the FBI Identity History Summary; in the UK it is the ACRO Police Certificate. Processing times vary — request early. The check must be issued within 90 days of your visa application.
Step 5: Apply Online
Submit your application at cancilleria.gov.co — Colombia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal. Select Visa DN (Nómada Digital). Upload all documents in PDF or JPG format. Pay the non-refundable application fee (approximately $52 USD). Processing time is typically 3–15 business days. You can apply from anywhere in the world — you do not need to be in Colombia.
Step 6: Pay the Visa Issuance Fee
Once approved, you receive a visa approval email. Pay the issuance fee (approximately $177 USD) through the portal. Your visa is then stamped into your passport or issued electronically, depending on your nationality and application method.
Step 7: Arrive and Register with Migración Colombia
Within 15 calendar days of arriving in Colombia, register with Migración Colombia and obtain your Cédula de Extranjería (foreigner ID card) if staying longer than 90 days. This card is required for opening bank accounts, signing leases, and other official purposes. Registration offices are located in Medellín at the Migración Colombia Centro Facilitador de Servicios.
Costs Summary
- Application fee: ~$52 USD (non-refundable)
- Visa issuance fee: ~$177 USD
- Health insurance: $40–$150 USD/month depending on provider and coverage
- Background check: $18–$50 USD depending on country
- Apostille: $20–$100 USD depending on state/country
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting too long on the background check: Apostilled checks from some countries take 4–8 weeks. Start immediately.
- Incorrect income documentation: Bank statements must clearly show regular deposits matching your claimed income. Inconsistent or cash-based income histories cause rejections.
- Health insurance gaps: Coverage must be continuous for the full visa duration. Policies with gaps or insufficient coverage limits are rejected.
- Missing the Migración registration deadline: The 15-day registration window after arrival is strict. Missing it creates complications with your legal status.
StellarView Realty works with digital nomads relocating to Medellín daily. Once your visa is sorted, contact us to find the right neighborhood and apartment for your lifestyle and budget.