Colombia Digital Nomad Visa: How to Apply in 2025

Sep 21

How to Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa in Colombia

Colombia’s Digital Nomad Visa (Visa V – Nómadas Digitales) lets remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs live in Colombia for up to 2 years while earning income from abroad. It’s one of the easiest long-stay visas in Latin America — but only if you know the process.

Here’s a quick guide to the key steps:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Must hold a passport from a visa-exempt country.
Show proof of remote work or freelance contracts with foreign clients/employers (you cannot be employed by a Colombian company).
Meet the minimum income requirement (~3× Colombia’s monthly minimum wage, about USD $1,100–1,200/month).
Have valid health insurance covering Colombia.

Step 2: Gather Documents

Valid passport + photo.
Work contract or employer letter (or proof of freelance/business).
Bank statements from the last 3 months.
Health insurance policy.
Criminal record certificate (often required).
Translations/apostilles if needed.

Step 3: Apply Online

Go to the Cancillería visa portal.
Fill in the application, upload documents, and pay the application fee (~USD $50–60).

Step 4: Wait for Approval

Processing usually takes 30–45 days.
If approved, pay the issuance fee (~USD $177) to receive your visa.
After arrival, apply for your Cédula de Extranjería (foreigner ID).

Should you use a lawyer? YES.

Technically, you can apply on your own — but I highly recommend using an immigration lawyer in Colombia. Some benefits include:

Make sure your documents are translated, formatted, and apostilled correctly.
Communicate with the Ministry on your behalf.
Reduce the risk of denial or delays (which can happen if something small is missing).
Save you time and stress.

Many nomads end up redoing the process (and paying twice) because of mistakes that a lawyer could’ve prevented.

Final Thoughts

Colombia’s Digital Nomad Visa is a game-changer for remote workers who want to enjoy the country’s vibrant culture, cities like Medellín, and a lower cost of living. With the right prep — and ideally with a lawyer’s help — the process is straightforward.