Everything You Need to Know About the Colombia Remote Work Visa

Imagine working remotely from a country with a rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking views. Sounds appealing, right? The Colombia Remote Work Visa, also known as the digital nomad visa, allows you to do just that. Let’s dive into the benefits, eligibility criteria, and application process for this exciting opportunity.

Short Summary

• Colombia Remote Work Visa offered for up to 2 years.
• Eligibility criteria include minimum income requirements, valid passport with health insurance & appropriate employment status.
• Colombia is an attractive destination for digital nomads due to its remote work culture, low cost of living, and reliable healthcare system.
• In order to apply for the Digital Nomad Visa you must belong to a free transit country (who already receive 180 days of visa free travel to Colombia)

Benefits of the Colombia Remote Work Visa

The Colombia Remote Work Visa offers many benefits that make it an attractive option for digital nomads. With this visa, you can stay in the country for up to two years (Though most visas are being granted for 1 year) giving you ample time to explore its vibrant cities, lush countryside, and pristine beaches. Not only that, but your spouse and dependents can also be included in your application, making it an ideal option for families as well.

Moreover, the Colombian Digital Nomad Visa isn’t just about enjoying the country’s beautiful scenery and pleasant climate. It also provides a pathway to immigration and citizenship, opening up the door to a new life in this captivating South American nation. With the opportunity to work remotely for foreign companies or start a digital technology business in Colombia, the possibilities are endless with the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa. In fact, digital nomad visas like this one are becoming increasingly popular around the world, and the new colombia digital nomad visa is no exception.

Eligibility Criteria for the Colombia Remote Work Visa

To qualify for the Colombia Remote Work Visa, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria, which include minimum income requirements, employment status, and possessing a valid passport with health insurance.

Let’s take a closer look at these requirements in the following subsections.

Income Requirements and Employment Status

One of the key factors to qualify for the Colombia Remote Work Visa is meeting the minimum monthly income requirement. Applicants must demonstrate a minimum monthly income of $750-$900 (depending on exchange rates).This income threshold ensures that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself and your dependents during your stay in Colombia. If you have multiple dependents, your income may need to be higher.

In addition to meeting the income requirements, you must also have a specific employment status to be eligible for the Colombia Remote Work Visa. Applicants must be employed by a foreign company. You must provide evidence of employment or self-employment from your home country to support your application.

It is important to note that your proof of employment must match what shows in your bank statements. Meaning that if you receive multiple forms of income to equal the necessary amount, you will need to show proof of employment from each source.

It’s important to note that failing to meet these requirements may lead to the refusal of your visa application.

Valid Passport and Health Insurance

A valid passport and proof of health insurance are essential requirements for your Colombia Remote Work Visa application. When applying, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months. This ensures that you have a valid travel document throughout your stay in the country.

In addition to a valid passport, you must also provide proof of health insurance coverage. Your health insurance must cover a broad range of medical circumstances, including:

• accidents
• illnesses
• maternity
• disability
• hospitalization
• death/repatriation

This requirement not only protects you while you’re living and working in Colombia but also ensures that you have access to quality healthcare during your stay.

Application Process for the Colombia Remote Work Visa

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The application process for the Colombian visa, specifically the Colombia Remote Work Visa, involves several steps, including preparing the required documents, submitting an online application, and paying the visa fee upon approval.

Let’s dive deeper into each step in the following subsections.

Preparing Required Documents

To begin your visa application, you must gather all the necessary documents, such as proof of income and employment, a valid passport, and medical insurance coverage. Make sure to scan these documents and prepare them for submission during the online application process.

It’s important to note that if any of your documents are not in English or Spanish, they must be translated into one of these languages. Ensuring that your documents are accurately translated and properly prepared is vital for a smooth application process.

Online Application Submission

Once you have all the necessary documents prepared, you can proceed with the online application process. Visit the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ online portal to access the Colombia Remote Work Visa application form. Fill out the form with your personal details, including your name, date of birth, passport number, and contact information.

The visa fee to submit your visa application is about $50 USD. It’s essential to pay this fee as part of the application process for the Cancilleria to view your application. Keep in mind that the visa fee is likely non-refundable if your application is denied. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that you meet all eligibility criteria and submit a complete and accurate application to increase your chances of approval.

After submitting the visa, you may be required to provide additional documentation to demonstrate your income and validate your online work, such as contracts, invoices, and other relevant documents.

Visa Approval and Fee Payment

After submitting your application and paying the visa fee, you will need to wait for the approval of your Colombia Remote Work Visa. If your application is approved, you will be required to pay the remaining fees of about $177USD, and your visa will be delivered electronically.

Living and Working in Colombia as a Digital Nomad

Living and working in Colombia as a digital nomad offers numerous advantages, such as a thriving remote work culture, affordable cost of living, and access to quality healthcare.

In the following subsections, we will explore these aspects in more detail, giving you a better understanding of what to expect when embarking on your remote work journey in Colombia.

Remote Work Culture and Infrastructure

Colombia boasts a strong remote work culture, with reliable internet infrastructure and popular coworking spaces in major cities. Internet access in Colombia is generally fast and reliable in large cities, with good coverage in other areas as well. You’ll find free Wi-Fi widely available in cafes in both Medelln and Bogotá, and power outages are not a frequent occurrence.

In addition to the robust internet infrastructure, coworking spaces are abundant in Colombia, especially in larger cities like Medelln and Bogotá. Selina Hostel in Medelln offers day passes to its coworking space for 40,000COP. Weekly passes are also available at 172,000COP. These spaces provide a productive environment for digital nomads to connect with other remote workers and get their work done efficiently.

Cost of Living and Quality of Life

The cost of living in Colombia is relatively low compared to other countries in South America. The estimated monthly living expense for an individual remote worker in Colombia is approximately $330 USD per month, excluding rental costs. This affordability makes it an attractive destination for digital nomads seeking a high-quality lifestyle on a modest budget.

However, it’s important to note that the quality of life index score for Colombia is moderate, with a score of 101.4 out of a possible 240. Factors such as property prices, pollution, and commuting time contribute to this moderate score. Nevertheless, the overall experience of living and working in Colombia is generally positive, with many digital nomads finding the country’s vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes to be well worth the trade-offs.

Healthcare System in Colombia

When it comes to healthcare, Colombia ranks 32nd in the 2021 Legatum Prosperity Index, indicating a relatively high standard of care. Digital nomads applying for the Colombia Remote Work Visa must provide proof of valid health insurance. This should include cover for:

• accidents
• maternity
• sickness
• death
• repatriation
• disabilities

This ensures that you have access to quality healthcare during your stay in the country.

The universal public health insurance in Colombia is referred to as Entidades Promotoras de Salud (EPS). While this system may not directly apply to digital nomads, it reflects the country’s commitment to providing accessible healthcare to its residents. As a digital nomad in Colombia, you can have peace of mind knowing that quality healthcare is readily available should you need it.

Top Destinations for Digital Nomads in Colombia

Colombia is home to numerous captivating destinations that cater to the needs and preferences of digital nomads. Some of the most popular destinations include:

• Medellín
• Bogotá
• Cartagena
• Barranquilla
• Bucaramanga

Each of these cities offers unique opportunities and challenges, allowing you to choose the location that best suits your lifestyle and interests.

Medellin, for example, is renowned for its pleasant climate, dynamic culture, and contemporary infrastructure. Bogotá, on the other hand, is known for its colonial architecture, lively nightlife, and diverse culture. Meanwhile, Cartagena’s beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere make it a popular choice for digital nomads seeking a more relaxed environment.

With so many fantastic destinations to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to call home during your remote work adventure in Colombia.

Tips for a Successful Remote Work Experience in Colombia

To ensure a successful remote work experience in Colombia, it’s important to keep a few practical tips in mind. First, establish connections with the local expatriate community, as they can provide invaluable insights and support during your stay. Additionally, always adhere to common-sense safety precautions, such as staying aware of your surroundings and keeping your belongings secure.

Another key aspect of a successful remote work experience in Colombia is embracing the country’s many attractions and experiences. Immerse yourself in the local culture, sample the delicious cuisine, and explore the diverse landscapes that Colombia has to offer. By maintaining a healthy work-life balance and taking advantage of the unique opportunities that Colombia presents, you can truly make the most of your remote work journey in this captivating country.

Summary

In conclusion, the Colombia Remote Work Visa offers a unique and exciting opportunity for digital nomads to live and work in this vibrant South American nation. With its numerous benefits, straightforward eligibility criteria, and simple application process, this visa is a fantastic option for those seeking a new remote work adventure. By embracing the local culture, staying safe, and enjoying the many attractions that Colombia has to offer, you can truly make the most of your remote work experience in this incredible country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa to work remotely in Colombia?

Yes, you need a visa to work remotely in Colombia. You must have a valid passport, health insurance, a letter from your employer, and bank statements to prove your earnings.

This visa will grant you up to 2 full years of stay in the country.

Can I work remotely from Colombia?

Yes, you can work remotely from Colombia! Visitors are allowed to stay in the country visa-free for up to 180 days, and Colombia even offers a digital nomad visa that allows for a two year stay.

This visa is designed to make it easier for digital nomads to work and live in Colombia. It allows for remote work.

Does Colombia have a digital nomad visa?

Yes, Colombia has a Digital Nomad Visa available, which was launched in October 2022. It is known as the “Visa V Nómadas Digitales” and became available in January 2023.

The visa costs $177 and applicants must earn approximately $800 per month to qualify. (3 times the Colombian minimum wage of 1.160.000 Colombian Pesos)

What is the duration of stay offered by the Colombia Remote Work Visa?

The Colombia Remote Work Visa offers a duration of two years for stay in the country.

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