Living in Colombia: the ultimate expat guide

Getting the correct visa is the first step in making Colombia your new home. The country welcomes expats with clear online applications and multiple visa options for work, retirement, study, or family reunification. While some visas are processed quickly, others may take several weeks, so planning ahead is essential. Colombia even offers a dedicated retirement visa, making it easier for retirees to settle in the long term.

Tips:

• Check passport validity: at least six months required for entry.

• Many nationalities can enter Colombia visa-free for up to 90 days.

• Visa applications are processed online via the official portal: Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

• Processing times vary; plan ahead as some visas take several weeks.

• Health insurance is required for certain visa types.

🔍To learn more

Expats in Colombia often find opportunities in teaching, technology, tourism, and international business, though the job market can be competitive. Employers typically look for candidates with relevant skills, international experience, and proficiency in Spanish. While unemployment nationwide is around 11–12%, expats with in-demand skills or remote work options can successfully settle and earn a living. Many are attracted to the country’s lower cost of living, vibrant culture, and growing sectors that welcome foreign talent.

Sectors employing expats

• Technology and IT: Software development, digital marketing, and tech support.

• Tourism and hospitality: Hotels, travel agencies, and guides.

• Education: International schools, universities, and language institutes.

• Business services: Finance, consulting, and customer service centers.

• Healthcare: Hospitals and clinics, especially for English-speaking roles.

Starting a business in Colombia

Colombia has become increasingly attractive to foreign entrepreneurs, thanks to a growing start-up ecosystem and government incentives. Expats commonly start businesses in tech, tourism, consultancy, or import/export. Registration, licenses, and understanding local taxation and labor laws are essential and you can find resources for starting your own business in Colombia at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism and ProColombia.

Facts and figures

Data correct as of December 2025.

Sources:

National Administrative Department of Statistics — unemployment rate and BBVA Research — informal workforce

🔍To learn more

Colombia offers many solid higher education options, with a mix of public and private universities that compare well with those across Latin America. Several institutions are regularly ranked among the region’s best. For international students, many study options are available — especially in humanities, business, engineering, and social sciences — and Colombia has recently seen growing interest in its universities from abroad.

Top universities in Colombia

• Universidad de los Andes (Bogotá): Often ranked #1 in Colombia; strong across arts, engineering, business, and social sciences.

• Universidad Nacional de Colombia (Bogotá and other campuses): The leading public university; a broad range of disciplines and significant research output.

• Pontificia Universidad Javeriana (Bogotá): Renowned private university with quality accreditation and respected programs in humanities, social sciences, law, medicine, and business.

International students in Colombia

Colombia is seeing a steady rise in international students, with many coming from neighboring Latin American countries such as Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela, and Brazil, as well as from Europe, the U.S., and Canada. Recent data indicate that foreign enrolments have been growing rapidly, with some universities reporting year-on-year increases of more than 100%. The total number of international students in tertiary education is still relatively small compared with the local population, but the upward trend highlights Colombia’s growing appeal as a study destination.

🔍To learn more

Colombia is fast becoming one of Latin America’s hottest retirement destinations. Thousands of foreign retirees — mainly from the U.S., Canada, and Europe — are making the move each year, attracted by affordable living, good healthcare, and vibrant culture. Most base themselves in Medellín, the coffee region, Bogota, or coastal cities like Cartagena and Santa Marta, drawn by climate, lifestyle, and expat communities. Planning ahead is key: you need the correct visa, proof of pension income, health insurance, and a clear understanding of property rights.

What you need to know

• Visa: M 11 Retirement Visa is the main route; requires a lifetime, regular pension or retirement income.

• Health insurance: Mandatory for securing a visa.

• Work restrictions: Cannot work under a retirement visa; an investment or other visa is required to work in Colombia.

• Property ownership: Retirees can freely buy property in Colombia.

Useful link:

Ministry of Foreign Affairs — Visas

Colombia has a modern, mostly digital banking system with widespread ATMs and mobile banking options, making day-to-day money management straightforward for expats. Opening an account is generally easy once you have the correct documents — a passport, a visa, a cédula de extranjería (foreign resident ID card), and proof of address — but it usually requires an in-person visit. Many major banks in larger cities offer at least partial services in English, though smaller branches and rural areas are generally Spanish-only.

Banking for expats in Colombia

• Major banks — especially in major cities — offer limited English-language support. Smaller branches are usually Spanish-only.

• Online and mobile banking apps are widely used.

• Most banks require you to visit a branch in person to open a bank account.

Paying tax in Colombia

If you spend more than 183 days a year in Colombia, you’re considered a tax resident and must pay taxes on income earned both locally and abroad. Income tax rates are progressive, from 0% up to 39%, depending on your earnings. Tax filing is done online through the National Directorate of Taxes and Customs (DIAN) and even if you only earn a small salary or run a business, it’s essential to register with DIAN early to avoid fines.

Useful link:

National Directorate of Taxes and Customs (DIAN)

🔍To learn more

Colombia’s health care system is well-developed, particularly in its cities, offering high-quality care at relatively low cost. Major hospitals and clinics in Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali are modern and often comparable to international standards, and the country offers some of the best healthcare in the region. That said, public system care can mean long waits, especially for specialists or non-emergency procedures; therefore, many expats opt for private care for speed, comfort, and English-speaking staff.

What you need to know

To apply for most Colombian visas (except short tourist visas), you must provide private or international health insurance that covers you for the duration of your stay. Once your visa is granted and you receive your foreigner ID, you can then choose to join the EPS system. EPS is Colombia’s public health system, and expats contribute a monthly amount based on their income to access free healthcare services, including doctor visits, hospital treatment, and basic medications, although some expenses may still apply.

🔍To learn more

Most expat families in Colombia choose private or international/bilingual schools for their children. The main reasons are consistent quality, internationally recognized curricula, and English-language instruction, because public schools in Colombia teach almost entirely in Spanish. Although expat children are eligible to attend public schools regardless of nationality or immigration status, quality can vary across regions, so many expats opt for international schools to ensure consistent standards and English-language instruction.

Types of schools in Colombia

1. Public schools: Free or heavily subsidized; follow the national curriculum; attend basic and lower secondary for free.
2. Private schools: Paid schools, often with better infrastructure, may offer bilingual or international curricula.
3. International/bilingual schools: Primarily serve expatriate families; often teach in part or in whole in English and follow global curricula.
4. Early childhood/preschool: Ages 3–5; the last year (transition) is mandatory; optional nursery or preschool years prior.

School dates

The dates for the school year in Colombia depend on what type of school you are attending and the region you reside in. The Calendar A school year runs from February to November, while Calendar B starts in September and ends in June. Public schools typically adhere to Calendar A dates, whereas private schools have autonomy over their school-year calendars.

Useful link:

Ministry of National Education

🔍To learn more

Colombia’s housing market is surprisingly accessible — for many expats, it balances affordability with good value, though in popular cities, things can get a bit competitive. Whether you’re after a modern apartment in a city or a more relaxed house in a smaller town, there are plenty of options available. Housing tends to be cheaper than in North America or Europe, especially outside the most expensive neighborhoods. And renting is the most common option for newcomers as it offers flexibility while you decide where to settle. The good news for those ready to commit is that buying property is relatively straightforward for foreigners who are permitted to purchase real estate in almost all parts of the country.

What you need to know

• Rental requirements: Most landlords require a passport; having a Spanish-speaking contact or a local guarantor helps.

• Lease terms: Typical rental contracts terms are six to 12 months.

• Furnished vs unfurnished: Many rentals come unfurnished.

• Buying property: Foreigners can buy real estate in most areas; however, border zones and undeveloped land near international borders are subject to legal restrictions.

Useful link:

Global Property Guide — Colombia

🔍To learn more

Moving to Colombia can be an exciting adventure — but shipping your belongings requires a bit of planning. The system works, but there are rules, inspections, and paperwork to navigate. Many expats manage it without drama, while others get caught out by customs delays or unexpected taxes, so knowing what to expect will make the move to Colombia smoother and less stressful.

What you need to know

• The person importing must be at least 18 years old and present in Colombia when the goods are cleared by customs.

• The shipment must reach the Colombian port within 120 calendar days after the owner’s arrival.

• Only one duty-free household shipment per family is allowed every five years.

• Shipments are subject to a physical inspection by customs.

• Items classified as ‘household goods’ must be used, belong to you, and be from your last residence abroad. New or commercial quality items may be taxed or rejected.

• Customs clearance typically takes about 10–12 days, plus a couple of days for domestic transit to your home.

Useful link:

FIDI — Global alliance of international moving and relocation companies

🔍To learn more

Colombia is a country that loves to celebrate life, and expats quickly find that there’s always something exciting to do. From salsa dancing in Cali, exploring vibrant street art in Bogotá, to hiking through the lush coffee region, leisure in Colombia is as diverse as its landscapes. Cities pulse with cultural events, music festivals, and lively nightlife, while towns offer slower-paced activities like local markets, artisan fairs, and nature excursions. Sport is woven into everyday life in Colombia, with football reigning supreme nationwide. And the beaches on the Caribbean coast offer sun, sand, and water sports, making Colombia ideal for both adventure-seekers and those who prefer relaxed, scenic days.

Outdoor and active lifestyles are particularly popular. Colombia’s mountains, rivers, and national parks attract hikers, cyclists, and birdwatchers, while scuba diving, paragliding, and surfing offer thrills along the coast. Coffee plantations, historic towns, and cultural heritage sites make for endless day trips and weekend escapes. And, of course, the country’s world-famous cuisine and coffee culture are leisure activities in themselves — sampling local dishes and cafés is a must.

Popular leisure activities in Colombia

• Salsa dancing and music festivals, especially in Cali and Medellín.

• Exploring Bogotá’s street art and museums.

• Hiking, trekking, and eco-tourism in the Coffee Region and Andes.

• Beach trips and water sports on the Caribbean coast

• Coffee plantation tours and tastings in regions like Eje Cafetero.

• Cycling and paragliding in Medellín or Bucaramanga.

• Visiting colonial towns like Villa de Leyva or Barichara.

• Birdwatching and nature excursions in national parks.

• Enjoying Colombian cuisine and local markets in every city.

🔍To learn more

Colombians value family, social life, and hospitality, so expats quickly find themselves immersed in vibrant cafes, weekend markets, and local events. Daily routines are often relaxed, with flexible attitudes toward time in casual settings. Public transport is available in cities, but taxis or ride-hailing apps are preferred for convenience and safety. Most urban areas offer modern infrastructure, reliable internet, and easy access to shopping, making everyday life comfortable for newcomers.

Colombia has shaken off much of its past reputation for drugs and violence, though expats still need to be street-smart. Major cities are now far safer than in the 1980s and 1990s, with homicide rates dropping significantly, but petty crime can still occur in some neighborhoods. Knowing where to live, how to get around, and which areas are safest helps newcomers enjoy daily life confidently, so caution and local guidance are advised.

🔍To learn more

Colombia offers an affordable lifestyle compared to many Western countries and sits mid-range in South America — cheaper than Chile, but a bit pricier than Ecuador or Bolivia. While imported goods and luxury items can cost more, everyday expenses like housing, local food, and public transport are very budget-friendly, allowing a comfortable life even on a modest income.

Monthly expenses

Data correct as of December 2025

Source: Numbeo