Colombia Digital Nomad Visa Cost: Your Essential Price Guide

Have you ever dreamt of immersing yourself in the vibrant culture, lush landscapes, and bustling cities of Colombia while working remotely? The Colombia Digital Nomad Visa offers you the opportunity to do just that. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore all aspects of this exciting visa option, from understanding its purpose and benefits to navigating the application process and managing the Colombia digital nomad visa cost.

Key Takeaways

• The Colombia Digital Nomad Visa offers remote workers the chance to live and work in Colombia, with a duration of up to two years and an option for renewal.
• Applicants must meet eligibility criteria, including proof of remote work income & valid travel insurance covering accidents, maternity, sickness etc.
• The application process requires an application fee ($52 USD) plus visa fees (ranging from $170-$230 USD), as well as accommodation costs, living expenses & health/travel insurance.

Understanding the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa

The Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is a unique opportunity for remote workers to live and work in Colombia. Known for its natural beauty, rich landscapes, and growing expat community, Colombia is an increasingly attractive destination for digital nomads. The visa application process is entirely online and offers a convenient alternative to obtaining a tourist visa for those who wish to work remotely in Colombia.

However, keep in mind that Colombian Foreign Ministry representatives may ask for extra information or documentation, such as evidence of employment with a foreign company, prior to the approval or denial of your digital nomad visa application. For a seamless application process, make sure you understand the visa’s requirements and have all required documents ready prior to submitting your application.

Visa duration and renewability

One of the key advantages of the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is its duration. The visa allows remote workers to stay in Colombia for up to two years, making it an attractive option for those looking to explore South America for an extended period. This offers a significant advantage over most digital nomad visas, which typically have shorter validity periods.

Additionally, after the initial period, the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa can be renewed, providing eligible digital nomads with the opportunity to live and work in the country continuously. 

To renew your visa, you’ll need to re-apply again. This means you’ll need to meet the digital nomad visa requirements, which include providing proof of remote work, demonstrating a minimum income of $1,000 per month, and possessing valid health insurance in Colombia 

Eligibility criteria

To qualify for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria. First and foremost, you must provide proof of remote work, such as evidence of employment or self-employment from your home country of more than $1,000 USD per month.  This minimum income requirement ensures that digital nomads can sustain themselves financially while residing in Colombia.

Additionally, applicants must possess valid travel insurance that covers:

• accidents
• maternity
• sickness
• death
• repatriation
• Hospitalization

Ensuring that you have adequate insurance coverage not only fulfills the visa requirements but also provides peace of mind as you embark on your Colombian adventure.

Colombia Digital Nomad Visa Fees

When applying for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa, considering the associated fees is crucial. The visa application process comprises two main fees: a $52 USD application fee and a visa fee that is approximately  $170, depending on factors such as the inclusion of dependents and the applicant’s nationality.

Keep in mind that these fees are in addition to any other expenses you may incur while planning your stay in Colombia, such as insurance, accommodation, and living costs.

Application fee

The application fee for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is $52 USD, which must be paid in full upon submission of your application. This fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether your visa application is approved or denied.

Be prepared to pay this fee using an online payment method, as it cannot be waived or paid in installments under any circumstances.

Visa fee

Once your Colombia Digital Nomad Visa application has been approved, you’ll need to pay the visa fee, which is about $170, depending on various factors, such as the inclusion of dependents and your nationality. The payment can be made online using a credit card.

While there isn’t clear information regarding the refundability of the visa fee in case of denial, it’s best to assume that the fee is non-refundable and approach the visa grants application process with diligence.

Additional Expenses to Consider

Beyond the visa fees, other expenses should also be taken into account when planning your stay in Colombia as a digital nomad. These expenses include health insurance, living costs, and travel insurance. While Colombia is generally more affordable than many other countries, it’s essential to budget for these costs and ensure that your monthly income can cover your expenses throughout your stay.

Travel and Health insurance

The Colombia Digital Nomad Visa necessitates having travel and health insurance. You’ll need a health insurance policy that covers all risks, including accidents, illnesses, hospitalizations, medical expenses, evacuation/repatriation, maternity, sickness, death, disabilities, and repatriation. The cost of travel and health insurance for digital nomads in Colombia may vary, ranging from around $50 per month to hundreds of dollars depending on your situation, the coverage, and provider. It’s advisable to research and compare different international health insurance companies to find the most suitable option for your needs.

In addition to health insurance, you’ll also need travel insurance if you plan to explore other parts of Colombia or South America during your stay. The cost of travel insurance for digital nomads traveling to Colombia may vary, depending on factors such as:

• age
• location
• coverage options
• duration of coverage

Be sure to shop around and compare different travel insurance providers to find the best coverage at the lowest cost.

Accommodation costs

Accommodation costs in Colombia can vary depending on your preferences and location. Options range from budget hostels to luxury apartments, with prices reflecting the type of accommodation you choose. On average, hostel dorm rooms may range from 35,000 to 65,000 COP per night, while monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center may be around $500 to $2,000 USD.

Living expenses

The cost of living in Colombia is generally below that of many other countries, rendering it a cost-effective destination for digital nomads. On average, one can expect to spend around $900 to $1,500 per month for a comfortable lifestyle, including:

• Rent
• Utilities
• High-speed internet
• Groceries
• Dining out
• Miscellaneous expenses

It’s important to remember that living expenses can vary depending on the city and your lifestyle preferences. For example, living in a major city like Bogotá or Medellín may be more expensive than residing in a smaller town or rural area. Be sure to budget accordingly and adjust your spending habits as needed to ensure that you can comfortably cover your expenses throughout your stay in Colombia.

Tips for Saving Money on Your Colombia Digital Nomad Experience

There are multiple methods you can use to cut costs during your stay in Colombia as a digital nomad. Here are some suggestions:

• Utilize coworking spaces
• Take advantage of local markets for fresh produce
• Use public transportation
• Explore free or low-cost activities and attractions in your chosen city

By being resourceful and budget-conscious, you can make the most of your Colombia digital nomad experience without breaking the bank.

Utilizing co-working spaces

Co-working spaces in Colombia offer affordable and flexible options for digital nomads, providing a professional work environment and networking opportunities. Popular coworking spaces among digital nomads in Colombia include:

• Selina
• Viajero
• Los Patios
• Masaya
• Arsenal BRAINTECH

Coworking spaces in Colombia often come with added benefits such as high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and communal areas, making them an ideal choice for remote workers. By utilizing coworking spaces, you can save money on office rental costs and also connect with like-minded individuals, expanding your professional network and potentially opening up new opportunities.

Summary

In summary, the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa offers remote workers a unique opportunity to live and work in this vibrant and culturally rich South American country. With a maximum stay of two years and the possibility of renewal, this visa presents an attractive option for digital nomads looking to explore new horizons. By understanding the eligibility criteria, navigating the application process, and budgeting for additional expenses, you can make the most of your Colombia digital nomad experience and create lasting memories in this beautiful country.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum duration of stay with the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa?

The Colombia Digital Nomad Visa allows a stay of up to 2 years, though the visa is eligible to be renewed. 

What is the minimum income requirement for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa?

The minimum income requirement for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is an equivalent of at least $1,000 USD per month, which is 3 times the current legal minimum wage.

What are some tips for saving money on accommodation in Colombia?

Booking in advance and using online resources can help you save on accommodation in Colombia. 

What is the application fee for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa?

The application fee for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is $52 USD and $170 USD.