Digital nomad visa in Colombia

September 04, 2025

The digital nomad visa in Colombia has become one of the most attractive options for remote workers in Latin America. With Resolution 5477 of 2022, Colombia updated its migration regulations to facilitate access for digital professionals from all over the world. This comprehensive guide will help you understand all the legal aspects, updated requirements, and benefits of this type of visa.

What is the Digital Nomad Visa in Colombia?

The Type V digital nomad visa in Colombia is a temporary residency permit that allows foreign nationals to live in Colombian territory while working remotely or teleworking exclusively for foreign companies. This visa, regulated by Resolution 5477 of 2022 and supplemented by Resolution 5488 of 2022, represents an innovation in Colombian immigration law.

According to Article 46 of Resolution 5477 of 2022, the digital nomad visa has the following scope:

To provide remote work or telework services, from Colombia, through digital means and the internet, exclusively for foreign companies, as a freelancer or employee, or to start a digital content or information technology venture of interest to the country.

This legal definition covers three main modalities:

1. Remote work for foreign companies (as an employee or freelancer).
2. Telework through digital means.
3. Digital content or information technology ventures.

Characteristics of the Type V Digital Nomad Visa

Category: Visitor Type V

Validity: Up to 2 years

Beneficiaries: Dependent family members may be included

Renewable: Yes, by meeting the requirements again

Key Restriction: Prohibited from working for companies based in Colombia

Legal Framework: Resolution 5477 of 2022 and Current Regulations

The Colombian visa system is primarily governed by Resolution 5477 of 2022, issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This resolution establishes the types of visas, requirements, conditions, and procedures for their application, review, inadmissibility, denial, authorization, cancellation, and termination.

The digital nomad visa is specifically regulated in Article 46 of Resolution 5477, classified as a "Type V Digital Nomad Visa" within the visitor category.

Additionally, Resolution 5488 of 2022 updates the list of countries whose citizens are exempt from short-stay visas for entering Colombia and sets out special provisions for digital nomads who can enter without a visa for short periods.

Who Can Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa?

The profile of those who can apply for this visa is clear: remote workers employed by foreign companies or freelancers who don't earn income in Colombia. The resolution also states that applicants must hold a passport issued by one of the countries exempt from a short-stay visa in Colombia. This allows a wide range of professionals to take advantage of this opportunity to work from Colombia, enjoying all the benefits the country has to offer.

Requirements to Obtain the Digital Nomad Visa in Colombia

To obtain this visa, you must meet several requirements, which include:

Valid passport: You must have a passport issued by one of the countries that are exempt from requiring a visa for short stays.

Company letter: You must submit a letter in Spanish or English from the foreign companies for which you work or have a contract.

For entrepreneurs: Entrepreneurs must provide a motivational letter that comprehensively details the venture they are involved in.

Bank statements: You must provide bank statements that show a minimum income equivalent to 3 current Colombian monthly minimum wages (Salarios Mínimos Mensuales Legales Vigentes or SMMLV) during the three months prior to the application.

Health insurance: You must have a valid health insurance policy in Colombia.

Estos requisitos están diseñados para asegurar que los solicitantes puedan sostenerse económicamente durante su estancia en el país, sin necesidad de generar ingresos locales.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining the Digital Nomad Visa

The process for obtaining a digital nomad visa in Colombia is straightforward but requires attention to detail.

It all begins with gathering the necessary documents, which must be submitted virtually on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' website. Once the documents are reviewed and if everything is in order, the visa is granted, which can be valid for up to 2 years. This period is ideal for those seeking stability while exploring life in Colombia.

What documentation is needed for the digital nomad visa?

According to Resolution 5477 of 2022, the necessary documentation is:

Complete the visa application form.

Provide a recent digital color photograph with a white background.

Have a passport or travel document issued by an authority, with a minimum validity of six months at the time of the application.

Foreigners who apply for a visa while in Colombia must submit a copy of the page of their passport that shows the most recent entry stamp into the country.

Tax Considerations for Digital Nomads

Tax Residency

Digital nomad visa holders must consider the tax implications:

Staying more than 183 days in Colombia: This triggers tax residency.

Declaring global income: As a tax resident, you must declare your worldwide income (including foreign income).

Paying Colombian income tax: You will pay tax according to Colombia's progressive tax table, with rates ranging from 19% to 39%, depending on your income level.

Legal Recommendation

It is essential that digital nomads who plan to stay in Colombia for more than 183 days:

Consult with a tax professional specializing in international taxation.

Plan their tax structure before obtaining the visa.

Evaluate any double taxation treaties between Colombia and their country of origin.

Benefits of the Digital Nomad Visa in Colombia

This visa offers multiple benefits, one of the most important being that it fills a legal gap for those who want to work remotely from Colombia without the need to obtain a traditional work visa.

Furthermore, the requirements are quite accessible, and the possibility of a visa valid for up to two years adds a very attractive level of stability. This type of visa also allows for the application of beneficiaries, making it easier for families and couples to relocate.

Ideal Cities for Digital Nomads in Colombia: Bogotá, Medellín, and Others

Bogotá and Medellín stand out as the top destinations for digital nomads in Colombia. These cities not only offer all the necessary facilities for remote work but also boast a vibrant cultural and social scene.

Furthermore, other cities like Cali, Barranquilla, Santa Marta, Cartagena, and even Villa de Leyva, known for their tourist appeal, are also emerging as viable options for those looking to combine work and leisure. Coworking spaces, high-speed internet access, and the expat community are key factors that make these cities ideal places to settle.

Do you want to apply for a digital nomad visa in Colombia?

If you are interested in knowing which nationalities are exempt from the short-stay visa and are considering applying for a digital nomad visa in Colombia, do not hesitate to contact us.

At Affirma Law, our lawyers specializing in immigration law understand the complexity of the digital nomad visa process. We offer:

Specialized Services

• Initial eligibility assessment
• Complete document preparation
• Personalized process tracking
• Complementary tax advice

Proven Experience

• Successful digital nomad visa cases
• Up-to-date knowledge of current regulations
• Direct relationship with immigration authorities
• Personalized attention in every case

Quality Guarantee

• Exhaustive document review
• Personalized strategy based on your case
• Constant communication throughout the process
• Post-approval support included

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