Can Foreigners Really Buy Real Estate in Medellín? 2025 Guide to Ownership, Taxes, Financing & Legal Myths

If you’re a foreigner wondering whether it’s safe, legal, or even possible to own property in Colombia — this page is for you. Let’s clear up the biggest myths and answer the most common questions.

🔹 Myth #1 — Foreigners Can’t Own Property in Colombia

  • ❌ False. Foreigners have full ownership rights.
  • ✅ No citizenship or residency required
  • ✅ You can own in your name or via a legal entity

🔹 Myth #2 — You Need a Colombian Spouse or Partner

  • ❌ Not true. Solo foreign ownership is 100% legal
  • 💡 Many foreigners purchase independently or with international partners

🔹Myth #3 — Your Property Can Be Seized or Challenged

  • ✅ Property ownership is protected by Colombian law
  • 🛡️ Registering your title at the Oficina de Registro guarantees ownership
  • ✅ Using Form 4 when bringing funds into Colombia strengthens protection

🔹 Common Questions (with Answers)

Can foreigners get a mortgage in Colombia?

  • 🏦 It’s possible but rare. Most banks require local income and residency
  • 💡 Most foreigners buy in cash or finance abroad

Do I need a visa to own property?

  • 🛂 No — owning property does not require a visa
  • But investing $90,000+ may make you eligible for a Migrant Investor Visa

Do I pay extra taxes as a foreign buyer?

  • 💸 No foreigner-specific tax
  • ✅ Property tax (predial) applies to all owners — typically <1% per year

Can I rent the property out as a foreigner?

  • ✅ Yes. You can lease short- or long-term
  • Note: Short-term rentals (Airbnb) require certain zoning and building rules

🔹 Best Practices for Foreign Buyers

  • 📄 Always work with a bilingual real estate lawyer
  • 📈 Use Form 4 to register foreign capital
  • 🔍 Get a title check (estudio de títulos)
  • 💰 Use escrow or certified funds when possible
  • 🧾 Verify all documentation through a notary

📩 Call to Action

🧠 Still have questions?
Our team specializes in helping foreign buyers understand legal, tax, and ownership rules.
Book a 1:1 Consultation to avoid costly mistakes.



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