mtbe
American expat in Colombia
Forum posts
207
Contacts
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About me
American
Lives in Pereira, Risaralda
Registration: 24 February 2015
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
The latest DANE report from June indicates a 27% increase in the consumer price increase year over year from 4.82 to 6.14. As with inflation, it hurts the poor the most. Read More
Raising kids the local way in Colombia by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Raising children as an expat in Colombia means discovering new parenting habits. School routines, discipline, food habits, independence, social life… many things may work differently in Colombia compared to your home ...
I don't have kids, so this is just by observation:A large majority of women who have kids do so out of wedlock. It also seems to me that the fathers are out of the picture for the kid as they grow. These kids are often pawned off to the ... Read More
A right wing candidate was elected president: Now what? by mtbe
To start a new thread on Mr Opara's question from another thread: Now what?Personally...too early to tell. Many were worried about Petro (including myself), but much of it was overblown. Many of the concerns of el Tigre, I think, are overblown as ...
Stop listening to Trump. - @SimCityAT A post that adds absolutely no value to the discussion... Read More
A right wing candidate was elected president: Now what? by mtbe
To start a new thread on Mr Opara's question from another thread: Now what?Personally...too early to tell. Many were worried about Petro (including myself), but much of it was overblown. Many of the concerns of el Tigre, I think, are overblown as ...
(...) Abelardo is loyal to the United States because he is a U.S. citizen. He swore an oath to defend the United States when he became a United States citizen. Abelardo's loyalty is not with Colombia. (...) - @futuroexpat I wonder if his supporters ... Read More
A right wing candidate was elected president: Now what? by mtbe
To start a new thread on Mr Opara's question from another thread: Now what?Personally...too early to tell. Many were worried about Petro (including myself), but much of it was overblown. Many of the concerns of el Tigre, I think, are overblown as ...
Petro's economic policies did this...Didn't someone brag about what a great economist Petro was?Colombia is emerging as one of the economies with the largest imbalance in its public accounts in 2026. A forecast by The Economist Intelligence Unit ... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
Petro's economic policies did this:Colombia is emerging as one of the economies with the largest imbalance in its public accounts in 2026. A forecast by The Economist Intelligence Unit places the country as having the third-highest fiscal deficit ... Read More
A right wing candidate was elected president: Now what? by mtbe
To start a new thread on Mr Opara's question from another thread: Now what?Personally...too early to tell. Many were worried about Petro (including myself), but much of it was overblown. Many of the concerns of el Tigre, I think, are overblown as ...
ICE does remove Colombians illegally from the United States even when they have no criminal records. There have also been documented instances of wrongful deportations and targeted expulsions of people with protected statuses. Masked ICE agents in ... Read More
A right wing candidate was elected president: Now what? by mtbe
To start a new thread on Mr Opara's question from another thread: Now what?Personally...too early to tell. Many were worried about Petro (including myself), but much of it was overblown. Many of the concerns of el Tigre, I think, are overblown as ...
We don't have to speculate. Just hours after the election Abelardo de la Espriella and U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno (R-OH) reached an agreement on deportations, mandating that any Colombian citizen requesting asylum in the U.S. should return to ... Read More
A right wing candidate was elected president: Now what?
To start a new thread on Mr Opara's question from another thread: Now what?Personally...too early to tell. Many were worried about Petro (including myself), but much of it was overblown. Many of the concerns of el Tigre, I think, are overblown as ... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
@mtbe Ok so the right-wing candidate won, now what? 🤔 - @ChineduOpara I think that discussion deserves it's own thread...not in this monetary thread (even though we've gotten away from the topic a long time ago)Quick reply: I don't think ... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
Yes: remittances have grown over the last 10 years, with a hiccup during Covid.Colombian born immigrants (to US and Europe) have expanded greatly in the last 10 years, about 50% in the US. A larger pool means more remittances. Persistent economic ... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
@mtbe ... Inflation down, unemployment down, minimum wage up to strengthen the economy (people have more money to spend to support businesses), record-breaking figures in international tourism and increased agricultural/industrial exports, increased ... Read More
Bank recommendations for opening an account in Colombia? by stealtannest3t
What banks do you recommend in Colombia? After 3+ years here I decided to take the plunge and open an account but have run into a few roadblocks. I have just used ATM's and stood in line in the past to pay bills that are only a few hundred USD a ...
@stealtannest3t What is the monthly cost for having the account and debit card? Read More
Requirement to have Un Tomador y Un Coduedor to Rent an Apartment by NicolasVasquez
Hello, I found a cute apartment that I love by searching Finca Raiz and then connecting with the real estate agency that listed it. I went to view the apartment today with my friend who is a local Colombian citizen and a business owner. I am being ...
Yep. Welcome to Colombia.In lieu of a 'fiador' or 'tomador', there are insurance companies that have policies that cover this. I believe SURA is one, but I'm not sure. Haven't used it, so am unsure of the costs. Read More
Trying to get citizenship and another country by brownpoppa14
While looking around to find the right fit for me any suggestions and do they have any programs of funding to help you move from USA looking for permanent residency out of the country Brandy Nicole
Yes: Residency in Mexico is easier. Several Expats in my area of Colombia have moved to Mexico in the last year already, due to the headaches of Colombian migration. Read More
Best cell phone plans for receiving 2FA in Colombia and keep US number by stealtannest3t
I have been using Google Voice for a few years now but lately it's been a bit janky getting my codes. I have a burner phone that I use with a Colombian service provider TIGO which is cheap and effective but I want to keep my US number for the phone ...
I was told by a US Banker, and this is what I do:Change all of the phone numbers for your banking contacts (and others if necessary), to that of a family member or friend who is willing to do it.When you need a code sent to you, call/whatsapp that ... Read More
Moving to Medellin ASAP by Josephdstultz
Hello all,My name is Joe, and my husband and I got married in Barranquilla, where he is originally from, and we plan to move to Medellin as soon as we can get my M visa situated. We currently live in Philadelphia, but we have been wanting to move to ...
Keep your expectations low to live in Colombia. Any work you find locally will be at Colombian rates...around $300-400US/month. Even engineers are only getting $1000 month, if lucky.Find a job in the US that will allow you to work overseas. Then ... Read More
Managing mailboxes or PO boxes in Colombia by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Something as simple as receiving mail can become a whole new experience when you settle in Colombia as an expat. Mailing management can indeed be different from what you are used to. In order to help other expats and soon-to-be ...
I changed all of my mailing addresses to that of a family member. They throw away the trash and scan anything that may seem important and email it to me. It's free and they don't mind as I've weeded out most of the garbage anyway. I might get ... Read More
Check Mig still needed?
I took a 4 month leave of Colombia earlier this year and did the Check Mig.A friend, who left Colombia for about 5 weeks during that time, said he and his wife didn't do Check Mig (He tried but couldn't get it to work, so gave up), and immigration ... Read More
Road safety in Colombia by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Navigating roads and experiencing traffic in Colombia as an expat can be a learning experience. We invite you to share your insights in order to help other expats and soon-to-be expats stay safe on the road in Colombia, whether ...
Been driving every visit to Colombia for 25 years, and permanently here for the last 5 years.It's seriously not that bad. There are worse countries. I wouldn't dare drive in India, but Colombia is no problem at all. I drive a car and have a ... Read More
Naturalization via marriage. Better to apply from UK or Colombia by Cayari
Hi everyone,I am moving to Colombia from UK with my Colombian wife (who is a UK citizen) in NovemberI want to apply for naturalization to become a Colombian citizen based on my marriage to herMy question is: is it better to apply for the first visa ...
You have to get a marriage visa first, which is good for 3 years, although some people have only received a marriage visa for 1 year.You can apply online. I've done it in the past, but in 2023, they made a lot of changes that make it difficult, so ... Read More
Business Ideas for Colombia by Andreyyy
Good day, My name is Andrey. I live with my family in Canada. My wife is from Colombia and we consider relocating there and starting a business. Just curious - is there any North Americans or Europeans who moved to Colombia (preferably as a family ...
Very very few successful businesses owned by expats. Do NOT move here first, then try to open a business. Investigate first for at least 12 months. Verify everything you need from the government and don't trust anyone. Whatever timeframe or ... Read More
Young Colombian wife- is it worth it? by European_chap
I've noticed that women in Colombia really love "one-day dramas." So, is it really okay to marry a woman from such a distant country? Even though I like everything about her, her whole environment – her family – just terrifies me!
@mtbe " shes older than me..and ugly" Nice guy😛 - @nico peligroIt's supposed to be humorous. I'm no Brad Pitt, that's for sure... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
"On the other hand, the Colombian peso has consistently strengthened its position against the United States dollar over the last three months. Since the November 2024 U.S. elections, the Colombian peso has emerged as one of the world's ... Read More
Young Colombian wife- is it worth it? by European_chap
I've noticed that women in Colombia really love "one-day dramas." So, is it really okay to marry a woman from such a distant country? Even though I like everything about her, her whole environment – her family – just terrifies me!
Okay....I'll be a bit more detailed. It's always an ego boost when a pretty young thing pays interest to you, when those of the same age in your country won't give you a second look.1) If you are worried or concerned now about her family, then ... Read More
Young Colombian wife- is it worth it? by European_chap
I've noticed that women in Colombia really love "one-day dramas." So, is it really okay to marry a woman from such a distant country? Even though I like everything about her, her whole environment – her family – just terrifies me!
If you're asking on an internet forum, then you probably shouldn't get married. Read More
Adventure to Medellin by Nelson GNAKPA
Hello everyone !I am a young entrepreneur who wants to try the adventure in Colombia next year. I would like to open a small restaurant first and see what happens. I would like to have all the advice and opinions of French expats or others who have ...
I'll respond here as my French is rusty, the French language page is not very active, and the response would be the same for anyone.You will not be able to come and open a restaurant first, unless you already have been here and scoped out a place to ... Read More
Car seizures in medellin, colombia by larryheath950
reasons to sieze your car in medellin, colombia
Are you asking?Not having SOATNot paying your loan on timeRobbersNot greasing the bearings properlyNot changing the oil frequently enoughThrashing your gearsLetting it sit too long Read More
A Check on Petro's Economy Two Years In by futuroexpat
OK, we are two years in with the government of Gustavo Petro. All the "nattering nebobs of negativism" have been proven wrong. The Colombian economy is strong, one of the best in all Latin America. DANE just today released the data:Construction and ...
Even more amazing what Petro has accomplished when congress will not even pass a budget to fund national goals for all of Colombia. But that will boomerang back on the party that would not pass a national budget. Your argument on Argentina is based ... Read More
A Check on Petro's Economy Two Years In by futuroexpat
OK, we are two years in with the government of Gustavo Petro. All the "nattering nebobs of negativism" have been proven wrong. The Colombian economy is strong, one of the best in all Latin America. DANE just today released the data:Construction and ...
@futuroexpat: Now you're just trolling ...Milei is hardly destroying their economy. There is no doubt that Argentina will struggle for a bit longer. It's not easy to turn around a country whose government has outspent income and printed money for ... Read More
A Check on Petro's Economy Two Years In by futuroexpat
OK, we are two years in with the government of Gustavo Petro. All the "nattering nebobs of negativism" have been proven wrong. The Colombian economy is strong, one of the best in all Latin America. DANE just today released the data:Construction and ...
Colombia is not as healthy as The Economist says it is:Actual data: the GDP has fallen the last three quarters.https://www.focus-economics.com/countries/colombia/news/gdp/colombia-national-accounts-18-11-2024-gdp-growth-ebbs-in-the-third-quarter/ Read More
A Check on Petro's Economy Two Years In by futuroexpat
OK, we are two years in with the government of Gustavo Petro. All the "nattering nebobs of negativism" have been proven wrong. The Colombian economy is strong, one of the best in all Latin America. DANE just today released the data:Construction and ...
The narrow-mindedness is REAL. It got quite frustrating, so I stopped engaging people on this topic... let them think whatever they want. Unfortunately, this has made my social isolation here in Barranquilla (north coast) near-complete. I still ... Read More
A Check on Petro's Economy Two Years In by futuroexpat
OK, we are two years in with the government of Gustavo Petro. All the "nattering nebobs of negativism" have been proven wrong. The Colombian economy is strong, one of the best in all Latin America. DANE just today released the data:Construction and ...
The Economist is far from independent and is definitely left leaning. https://www.allsides.com/news-source/economist"The Economist ranking is based on objective criteria" is completely misleading. The Economist is far from objective. They've ... Read More
Retirement in Colombia by Orion3131
I also like Colombia for retirement. But the problem is that Colombia tax your Social Security and other retirement income. Because of this a person can loose 30% of his income. In that case it is worse than in US.
This has been discussed quite a bit in this forum. Try a search first Read More
Expat communities Eje Cafetero by GGracee
Hi Everyone ! My name is Grace, I am actually on this forum to help find my mom an expat community in Colombia. She is located in the eje cafetero and loves gardening animals and in general loves being social but since retiring and moving back to ...
Yes: What Archer said.... Read More
Moving to Colombia, seeking local help by Catfish27
Hola. I am a newly retired guy from America and I am considering moving to Colombia. I hope to travel down there within a month or so, but I would first like to make arrangements to meet with some local(s) while I am down there, someone who can ...
to add to ChineduOpara's excellent post, you might try Manizales or Armenia: Smaller cities in the coffee region.As previously stated. One month is not sufficient to get to know Colombia. Its highly recommended to stay in one city for 1 month, ... Read More
American expats: thoughts about the upcoming elections? by Ameerah Arjanee
Hi everyone. I’m a content writer for Expat Magazine, and we are planning on writing an article about what American expats abroad (and non-American expats living in the US) think about the upcoming presidential elections. How do you think the ...
@Eric Collier I agree. Politicians proposals and our, or the media's, opinions on them are just 'what ifs'. Read More
American expats: thoughts about the upcoming elections? by Ameerah Arjanee
Hi everyone. I’m a content writer for Expat Magazine, and we are planning on writing an article about what American expats abroad (and non-American expats living in the US) think about the upcoming presidential elections. How do you think the ...
Surprised the Admins are permitting these questions to go through. Previous political discussions have been banned.How do you think the results will affect your life as an expat? The results of the US election won't have any affect on any expats. ... Read More
A Check on Petro's Economy Two Years In by futuroexpat
OK, we are two years in with the government of Gustavo Petro. All the "nattering nebobs of negativism" have been proven wrong. The Colombian economy is strong, one of the best in all Latin America. DANE just today released the data:Construction and ...
Ratings may not be accurate, but they are repeatable, and can be a good tool for comparison of administrations over the years.Accurate means it is hitting dead center of the target. Repeatable means that it is hitting the same place of the target, ... Read More
I may need to file taxes next year. Any recommendations? by artisvida
Hello everyone. I'll cut right to the chase.I'm a dual U.S./Colombian citizen who lives in the U.S. Earlier this year I had a loss in my family and stayed in Colombia more than 183 days while I worked on some arrangements. From the research I've ...
I agree with Nico. The DIAN doesn't check you entry to/from Colombia, so it's up to you if you want to take the chance that DIAN will check your entry/exit to/from Colombia. The two government departments don't talk with each other, so DIAN will ... Read More
A Check on Petro's Economy Two Years In by futuroexpat
OK, we are two years in with the government of Gustavo Petro. All the "nattering nebobs of negativism" have been proven wrong. The Colombian economy is strong, one of the best in all Latin America. DANE just today released the data:Construction and ...
@mtbe well I hope inflation rate.does go down here like it has elsewhere because its been brutal the last 2 years -@nico peligroIt's coming down. The COVID spending is finally filtering through the system and things are returning to ... Read More
A Check on Petro's Economy Two Years In by futuroexpat
OK, we are two years in with the government of Gustavo Petro. All the "nattering nebobs of negativism" have been proven wrong. The Colombian economy is strong, one of the best in all Latin America. DANE just today released the data:Construction and ...
... because Petro is a respected international leader in the global transition to renewable energy. -@futuroexpatPetro isn't even respected in Colombia as transitioning to renewable energy. He attacked the Hidroituango damn ... Read More
A Check on Petro's Economy Two Years In by futuroexpat
OK, we are two years in with the government of Gustavo Petro. All the "nattering nebobs of negativism" have been proven wrong. The Colombian economy is strong, one of the best in all Latin America. DANE just today released the data:Construction and ...
I was with thousands of people in Plaza Bolivar today. They were supporting the Pension Reform and were shouting "Petro amigo, el pueblo está contigo" (which translates roughly to: "Petro we got your back dude" You joining the thousands of ... Read More
A Check on Petro's Economy Two Years In by futuroexpat
OK, we are two years in with the government of Gustavo Petro. All the "nattering nebobs of negativism" have been proven wrong. The Colombian economy is strong, one of the best in all Latin America. DANE just today released the data:Construction and ...
In just one year Petro reduced the rate of infant mortality due to malnutrition by 50%. Why couldn't the "Uribista" governments do that? Flat out false and misleading:From Colombiaone.com:"The number of children under five who died from ... Read More
A Check on Petro's Economy Two Years In by futuroexpat
OK, we are two years in with the government of Gustavo Petro. All the "nattering nebobs of negativism" have been proven wrong. The Colombian economy is strong, one of the best in all Latin America. DANE just today released the data:Construction and ...
. the IPC (index of consumer prices) in August 2024 registered 0% change from July 2024, zero inflation. That does not mean there is zero annual inflation in Colombia, just that things didn't change last month. You can confirm this by going to DANE ... Read More
A Check on Petro's Economy Two Years In by futuroexpat
OK, we are two years in with the government of Gustavo Petro. All the "nattering nebobs of negativism" have been proven wrong. The Colombian economy is strong, one of the best in all Latin America. DANE just today released the data:Construction and ...
This OP is hilariously posting disinformation. Most of the claims are without merit. Just because someone is in office, doesn't mean their policies are affecting the outcome. Normally, it takes a good 1-2 years to see a government ... Read More
Mobile phone plans in Colombia by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Staying connected while living in Colombia remains a priority for expats, especially when choosing a mobile operator or to understand the local specificities of mobile plans. Here some elements to consider: How to choose ...
Claro, and I'm sure the others, have plans to call the US. I find this the most efficient to call businesses in the US. I think I'm paying $60.000/month for up to 5 hours free calling to the US.For family and friends outside of Colombia, I use ... Read More
Calling 800 and other US numbers from Colombian phone by pbrenneman
Is there a special exit code I need to dial when trying to reach 800 numbers from my new Colombian phone number? I was trying to reach my credit card customer service by calling the 800 number on the back as well as the (outside the US) number and ...
If you get a Claro plan, make sure you get it with international calls. I think my plan offers 5 hours per month...I don't use them. BUT, when you do call, it is 00 444 1 area code then number. It may be similar for other providers as well.... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
@cccmediaPetro's policies coming to fruition.... Read More
Colombian "Family" by Jack.Sparrow5
I have a question about explaining to me what the concept of family in Colombia is all about? For God's sake, wherever a man approaches women, they immediately bring with them a multitude of families! Do Colombian women not know how to be intimate? ...
The OP has posted this before, or something similar.... not sure if on this forum or another. Read More
Good visa immigration attorney by hiddent
Hello everyone, Can you recommend a good visa immigration attorney I’ve already had a bad experience with a lady attorney named *** *** Colombia her. I don’t even know if she was a real attorney, but any information you can share with ...
Had good experience with Langon Law in Medellin. Read More
1965 CHEVELLE by lafortel
I am thinking to ship my 1965 Chevrolet Chevelle to Colombia from the USA. Can anyone explain the procedure and what is required for me to do this?
@lafortel I am not sure about older cars, but if you figure out a way, I would love to know. I have my 2005 Dyna Wide Harley still in the US, but to ship it here on a container ship would be very expensive. More ... Read More
How to bring your car to Colombia by Bhavna
Hello everybody, If you exported your car to Colombia, were there any formalities that needed to be completed beforehand? What were they? What is the best way to export your car? Is there a limit on the number of vehicles, or perhaps the age ...
@emmanuelikhideroNo. It cannot. When you ship a used car, it is only temporary. ALL documents must have the owners name...they must match what is on the registration and/or title. In this manner, for a used car, you only have 180 days to keep it ... Read More
We are looking forward to learning more about the country by stefanvienna83
Hello,My name is Stefan, 41 years old and originally from Austria. I have been living in Mexico with my wife Claudia (30, from Slovakia) for 1.5 years with minor interruptions. We returned to Mexico after the birth of our daughter Madeline in ...
Was in Vilcabamba a few years ago. The town has changed to cater to the immigrants flocking there. Definitely the 'hippie' vibe, but now with various restaurants...and the locals disappointed. Read More
Default on a loan by linwoodmcneill
Hey guys , I have a question. I was engaged to a Colombian lady. She came her on a marriage visa . During this time I loaned her money to save her mother who recently died's home that had a lien on it. I new the mom and family and agreed to loan ...
Kiss your money goodbye. You fell for the oldest Colombian trap.... Read More
We are looking forward to learning more about the country by stefanvienna83
Hello,My name is Stefan, 41 years old and originally from Austria. I have been living in Mexico with my wife Claudia (30, from Slovakia) for 1.5 years with minor interruptions. We returned to Mexico after the birth of our daughter Madeline in ...
I see these posts of people looking for similar social groups in Colombia.I've only been here 4 years and while I know of some 'hippies' (for lack of a better word), I know of no such groups that live together. Perhaps others on this forum do.Your ... Read More
Waste Management in Colombia by Cheryl
Hello everyone, As an expat in Colombia, waste management can often pose challenges and requires an understanding of local standards and regulations. Understanding local practices is essential for environmental compliance and seamless integration ...
No government or business that recycles in our little village. Recycle bins can be seen at every food court and other self serve restuarants, and in some condo/apartment associations.In our little village, there is one guy that collects recycle ... Read More
1965 CHEVELLE by lafortel
I am thinking to ship my 1965 Chevrolet Chevelle to Colombia from the USA. Can anyone explain the procedure and what is required for me to do this?
From my understanding, You CAN import a vehicle older than 25 years into the country.It's not easy to do so. I've read you need to get an official letter from the antique car clubs in Colombia. And other documents from the DIAN.But even then, what ... Read More
Getting a PayPal account for a Venezuelan living in Colombia by CaliRay
Can it be done? Is anyone on this site in a similar situation and was able to open a PayPal account?
I haven't been able to get PayPal to work in Colombia. So...I gave up that account. haven't tried in a few years. Read More
Funds transfer from US financial institution to Colombian bank by Marquezdl
I am preparing to go car shopping and I am planning to pay cash for a new vehicle. My problem is that I know nothing of the ins and outs of transferring $30-40K from the US to Colombia.any advice from the finanacial wizards here?I would prefer to ...
At today's rate, US$40.000 is COP$160.000.000. That's the asking price for a new Subaru or even a AWD KIA. Read More
Certificate of Deposit (CDT) -- 17 % annual return? by cccmedia
On an obscure Expat.com thread concerningpotential USA debt default, a poster suggestedinvesting in a Certificado de Depósitode Término (CDT) at one of the Colombianfinancial institutions.According to a list e-published at ...
Hi @migueltmedeiros , Could you offer any advice to someone who is living in the United States of America with the desire to open a CDT with a Colombian bank? I don't know where to even start. I've been trying to do online research, and I found ... Read More
Christmas wishlist by Lpdiver
All I want for Christmas is a marriage visa...lol. I think it will be quite delayed due to the holidays. Three weeks and it is still in the formalized mode. The first application was not granted due to current passport number did not match the ...
Many people have experienced problems paying online.Those people head to the closest migracion office to pay directly. Read More
Looking to retire in the next few years in a seaside or coastal city by Mksebring
Hello everyonemy husband and I are looking to retire in the next few years in a seaside or coastal city of Columbia South America, since we are from Florida originally. We’re interested in purchasing some thing now so that we can vacation ...
Hello everyone my husband and I are looking to retire in the next few years in a seaside or coastal city of Columbia South America, since we are from Florida originally. We’re interested in purchasing some thing now so that we ... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
I live in estrato 2.I guarantee that 98% of the people who live here have never been to the two closest malls. Most of them don't make it to the closest large city 30 minutes away each month to even think about going to a mall. So using the ... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
Just spoke with a friend and her boss. We have several CDTs with their company at a high rates.They said foreign money investment/ingress was stationary the last 2 years. They said it is being pulled out rapidly in the last few months for fear of ... Read More
Manizales or Medellin by Digitarius
I am considering spending a year or two in one of these cities and yes I have been to both two years ago. I spent 4 months in Columbia. Any tips or suggestions and or links would be appreciated as to where to live and so on from anyone living in ...
We don't want any more foreigners in the coffee region. Go to Medellin, please! Read More
Does a 401k need to be reported as a foreign asset by uknwn0424
For those of y'all that have filed a "declaracion de renta before", do y'all report your 401k as an asset in formulario 160. I'm not retired, so I don't get payouts and don't have access to my 401k without having to pay penalties, so was curious ...
For those of y'all that have filed a "declaracion de renta before", do y'all report your 401k as an asset in formulario 160. I'm not retired, so I don't get payouts and don't have access to my 401k without having to pay penalties, so was curious ... Read More
Power of attorney and marriage visa request letters by Lpdiver
Does anyone have and be willing to post a copy of the above mentioned letters required for a marriage visa (with personal details redacted of course)? Although I am perfectly capable of composing such letters I am hoping to avoid any issues with not ...
@LpdiverI sent a copy in the thread you posted in the other forum... Read More
Exploring posibilities by Kwendal
Hello!I am a 63 year old single old male, who currently resides outside of Charlotte NC in the US. I made my mind up to leave the US earlier this year for many reasons, not the least of which is costs (Property Tax, Medical, Insurance, etc). I ...
Read Mr. Jones post...twice. It's good recommendations... Read More
Colombia visa application wont change status by Wale Taiwo
I applied for colombia visa online and uploaded all document and paid for application study. and got application confirmation email. almost over a month now the application status has not. changed . I check application. it shows application study ...
@mtbe You still did not answer the previous question how long was your visa given 1 year 3 years? -@HutchX2020Sorry Hutch:My visa is 3 years.... Read More
Colombia visa application wont change status by Wale Taiwo
I applied for colombia visa online and uploaded all document and paid for application study. and got application confirmation email. almost over a month now the application status has not. changed . I check application. it shows application study ...
@mtbeNice did you get 1 year? Retirement? Also what medical insurance did you have? Thanks -@lunamickI was getting my M Visa (Conyugal - Marriage). And, Yes, you do need to show insurance coverage. I'm with an EPS (on my wife's plan), ... Read More
Colombia visa application wont change status by Wale Taiwo
I applied for colombia visa online and uploaded all document and paid for application study. and got application confirmation email. almost over a month now the application status has not. changed . I check application. it shows application study ...
Yes, this is common now.I just went through the process. My first application was withdrawn, saying a document was incorrect, even though we had sent a petition to them showing the correct document. I had to apply again. It sat in the first step ... Read More
Certificate of Deposit (CDT) -- 17 % annual return? by cccmedia
On an obscure Expat.com thread concerningpotential USA debt default, a poster suggestedinvesting in a Certificado de Depósitode Término (CDT) at one of the Colombianfinancial institutions.According to a list e-published at ...
BTW it is not Petro that sets the interest rates, but the Banco de Republica, the Colombian Central Bank, who operate independently at arms length. If you would follow Colombian current events, it is Petro whao has been trying to interfere, and get ... Read More
Certificate of Deposit (CDT) -- 17 % annual return? by cccmedia
On an obscure Expat.com thread concerningpotential USA debt default, a poster suggestedinvesting in a Certificado de Depósitode Término (CDT) at one of the Colombianfinancial institutions.According to a list e-published at ...
@futuroexpat Right now I am unemployed. Do I absolutely need to prove income before I can open the CDT? -@ChineduOparaIf you have the pesos, no need to prove income. We didn't... Read More
Certificate of Deposit (CDT) -- 17 % annual return? by cccmedia
On an obscure Expat.com thread concerningpotential USA debt default, a poster suggestedinvesting in a Certificado de Depósitode Término (CDT) at one of the Colombianfinancial institutions.According to a list e-published at ...
Last week I got a Bancolombia CDT for 14.97% effective annual rate. To get that rate the CDT had to be opened virtually through my Bancolombia savings account and the term had to be 359 days.I am a happy camper in “communist” (LOL) ... Read More
Is Colombia becoming less friendly towads expats!! by HutchX2020
Cancellaria is deliberly delaying visas aplications in order for you to break the time continuity in Colombia so they don't give out residency visas!!!There are tons of stories on expat groups recently of massive delays of visas taking up 75 days to ...
@HutchX2020 I agree the new government is terrible, but the Colombian government also runs at a much slower pace than that of the governments we come from. So, it's more likely these new rules were put in place prior to this current administration. ... Read More
Visa Agency by mbalducci1990
Good morning,I'm looking for a reliable visa agency. I paid $275 to expat group in Medellín, but it's been 2 weeks and they operate extremely slow. They only reply to bad reviews on Google. I need the Visa V for digital nomads.
@HutchX2020 M (Conyugal) Visa Read More
Visa Agency by mbalducci1990
Good morning,I'm looking for a reliable visa agency. I paid $275 to expat group in Medellín, but it's been 2 weeks and they operate extremely slow. They only reply to bad reviews on Google. I need the Visa V for digital nomads.
I'm currently using Langon Law for an M Visa renewal. I've had no issues with them. They just wrote me saying that my application was withdrawn by the cancelleria, but no indication why. Not denied, not approved, not rejected...but withdrawn.They ... Read More
I am having a hard time finding a job by KingPinAries
Hello, my name is Harry. For the past two years, I have been working in seafood processing in Alaska. It involved long hours of work, usually 12 to 16 hours per day, for a pay rate of $18 per hour. Despite my efforts to save money, I didn't manage ...
You'll be hard pressed to find remote, on-line, work without already having a college degree or computer programming experience. -@mtbeThey could just start a YouTube channel telling everyone how wonderful Colombia is when compared to the States, ... Read More
I am having a hard time finding a job by KingPinAries
Hello, my name is Harry. For the past two years, I have been working in seafood processing in Alaska. It involved long hours of work, usually 12 to 16 hours per day, for a pay rate of $18 per hour. Despite my efforts to save money, I didn't manage ...
You'll be hard pressed to find remote, on-line, work without already having a college degree or computer programming experience. Plus, not entirely sure, but not sure you can go to university and work in Colombia at the same time....different type ... Read More
Mig Check trouble by evel Knievel
Why will the Mig Check site NOT e-mail me? I have filled it out and it tells me I have been successful, but I never receive an e-mail with the code proving I have completed? Any helpful tips? Thank you
I've had several friends enter Colombia from the US in the past two months. They didn't fill out check-mig...Your mileage may vary... Read More
Mig Check trouble by evel Knievel
Why will the Mig Check site NOT e-mail me? I have filled it out and it tells me I have been successful, but I never receive an e-mail with the code proving I have completed? Any helpful tips? Thank you
Check-Mig is not needed anymore. For the time being....Perhaps the airlines don't know this yet... Read More
5 months rent in advance because I'm an American? by khobbs40
I'm moving to Cali in mid September and have been working with a realtor there to find a house for several weeks. Today she contacted me and said I needed to pay 5 months rent in advance because I'm an American. She said my income verification and ...
Yes, it is common for owners to ask for 5-6 months rent up front from foreigners. Typically, for locals, they will ask for a fiador...someone to pay in case you (they) leave. So the 5-6 months rent up front protects the owner.Also: $6 ... Read More
call the US from Colombia by cathyfholt
I am trying to find out how to call a US 1-800 number from Colombia. I have Claro phone service. I saw online many conflicting things. One place said the exit code for Claro was 00444. Then I saw the exit code for Colombia was 90. Another said it ...
If you have Claro, you can get different plans. Mine is 5 hours free to the US for under $60k. Plenty for me.To dial out from Claro to the US: 00444 1-areacode-number.On another note: If you are calling an 800 number, like a bank, they will know ... Read More
Certificate of Deposit (CDT) -- 17 % annual return? by cccmedia
On an obscure Expat.com thread concerningpotential USA debt default, a poster suggestedinvesting in a Certificado de Depósitode Término (CDT) at one of the Colombianfinancial institutions.According to a list e-published at ...
@mtbe everything has risk especially 14% even in the US, Backed by the full faith in Who?Even the most secure creditor in the world is having trouble findingbuyers for the debt -@lunamickThe risk relatively low, compared to junk bonds previously ... Read More
Certificate of Deposit (CDT) -- 17 % annual return? by cccmedia
On an obscure Expat.com thread concerningpotential USA debt default, a poster suggestedinvesting in a Certificado de Depósitode Término (CDT) at one of the Colombianfinancial institutions.According to a list e-published at ...
The 14% (and sometimes higher) return in Colombia is for CDs, or savings (apparently). Very, very little risk. Read More
An expat social media influencer said what? by Mr. Barley
When an influencer says something interesting that needs to be documented, and possibly rebutted, this thread serves that purpose, at least for me. Of course, I only follow a handful of Youtube channels at this time, although that may need to change ...
I purchase a Samsung S9 at Jumbo years ago....no one asked for my cedula or passport....I bought a sim card at the papelaria below my apartment building and no one ever asked for my ID or to register anything. Years later...it still works. But I do ... Read More
Do I need a visa to ship household goods? by khobbs40
Planning on moving to Colombia soon and have been getting quotes from shipping companies for my belongings. I'm being told I need a visa to ship my things into the country and pay port charges, a 15% tax, and of course the shipping cost. Has anyone ...
Don't ship your things... Period.Few have had good luck doing so. Import taxes are higher than what they say. You'll be paying for dock fees for every day they are in dock, which of course takes longer than they say, the shipping estimate will ... Read More
An expat social media influencer said what? by Mr. Barley
When an influencer says something interesting that needs to be documented, and possibly rebutted, this thread serves that purpose, at least for me. Of course, I only follow a handful of Youtube channels at this time, although that may need to change ...
South Armenia is hotter than the north. The past two weeks have been hotter, and dryer, than normal. West of Pereira, including Cuba and Cerritos, is hotter than East of Pereira. Many homes in Cerritos have A/D. We're in the East...we wear long ... Read More
An expat social media influencer said what? by Mr. Barley
When an influencer says something interesting that needs to be documented, and possibly rebutted, this thread serves that purpose, at least for me. Of course, I only follow a handful of Youtube channels at this time, although that may need to change ...
I was watching a Youtube Influencer named Ezrato in a video titled Getting Your Phone Connected in Colombia. He says tourists who buy sims for their phones need to register their cellphones in a national database after (or maybe it is within) ... Read More
An expat social media influencer said what? by Mr. Barley
When an influencer says something interesting that needs to be documented, and possibly rebutted, this thread serves that purpose, at least for me. Of course, I only follow a handful of Youtube channels at this time, although that may need to change ...
Yes, you can buy a cellphone with your passport. It is, slightly, more difficult to get a SIM card though.Instead of going to any old store to get a SIM card, you'll have to go directly to the main provider's offices: Claro, Movistar, TIGO, etc... ... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
I wonder what effect Petro's proposal to end licensing and exploration for new petroleum supplies, which will eventually decrease exports that currently (2022) account for around 45% of Colombia's foreign income, will have on the exchange rate of ... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
That's exactly what investing in anything is: speculation, not facts. I understand why you don't want to include such language to you pro-Petro bias.You've just proved that by speculating the COP will again begin to fall against the USD if the ... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
June 6, 2023 (Reuters) - The Colombian peso outpaced its Latin American peers on Tuesday, clinging to a 10-month high... With the recent gains, Colombia's COP has outpaced Mexico's peso MXN to become the best performing Latin American currency ... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
To compare apples to apples and oranges to oranges, we need to look at the same period of time and compare Duque and Petro. For example, looking at the last five months with Petro and comparing with the same five month period with Duque. So ... Read More
Thinking about moving to Medellin by Temptingmango
Hi everyone, My name is Maby. I am thinking about moving to Medellin at the end of summer 2019. My daughter would be finished with elementary school and I would like her to do middle school and high school in Colombia which is what's ...
I'm trying to go to Medellin this summer for a week. Going to look at neighborhoods, private schools for my daughter and industry's where I can find work. -@TemptingmangoYou'll need more than a week to really understand Medellin and time ... Read More
Are Any Other US Expats Worried About a Debt Default? by karencds
I would imagine that the USD/COP rate would plummet. Is anyone else doing anything to prepare?
@mtbe How did you do your travelling? I am currently vacillating between by older F-150 truck and simply working my way down via buses etc.lp -@LpdiverWe bought a Ford Transit van and I converted it into a camper: Bed, kitchen, etc, with solar panel ... Read More
Are Any Other US Expats Worried About a Debt Default? by karencds
I would imagine that the USD/COP rate would plummet. Is anyone else doing anything to prepare?
@cccmedia C3...I concur with all your assertions. The difference between you and I is that I am married. My first choice would be sailing around the world on a sailboat but mamacita is deathly afraid of the ocean and well she is nice to have around. ... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
How can futuro get away with being sucha Petro fanboy?Because this is Expat.com and we allowfree expression of speech.cccmedia -@cccmediaI agree that everyone should have a voice, but Expat.com doesn't allow all free expression of speech. Several ... Read More
The US Dollar Vs. The Colombian Peso ............. Who's Up? Who's Down? by cccmedia
Weekly close a record.For the first time ever, the exchange closed forthe week with the U.S. Dollar above 5000 Pesos.The closing value for the week endedNovember 4, 2022, is 5092 Pesos to the Dollar.Source... xe.com USD-COP charting
@OsageArcher ... President Petro is the first president to do so because he is a visionary and sees the writing on the wall with respect to a gradual moderate sensible green transition away from oil. Petro is a capitalist so he will honor existing ... Read More