Lower Income Requirements For Colombia Digital Nomad Visa 2023

The "Visa V Nómadas Digitales," also known as the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa 2023. Colombia, a South American nation, holds the 41st position in the Passport ranking and offers visa-free access to 133 destinations, including numerous EU, South American, and Asian countries. In my view, Colombia stands out as the most affordable and straightforward country for obtaining a digital nomad visa.

Streamlined Requirements for Digital Nomads in Colombia

When it comes to digital nomad visas, Colombia boasts some of the most lenient requirements. In recent years, digital nomad visas have gained popularity worldwide, leading countries like Malta, Portugal, and Canada to launch similar programs. However, what sets Colombia apart is its remarkably low monthly income requirements for aspiring nomads.

In January 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs inaugurated the "Visa V Nómadas Digitales," more commonly known as the Digital Nomad Visa. This marked the commencement of the application process for this unique visa category.

To qualify for the Digital Nomad Visa, individuals need to demonstrate a monthly income of at least $684. Meeting this income threshold ensures eligibility for this visa category. Notably, the Colombian Digital Nomad Visa stands out from other nomad visa programs, as it boasts remarkably low income requirements.

Additionally, the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa allows you to include your family members in the same application without imposing any additional income prerequisites, making it a family-friendly option.

Duration of Stay Under the Digital Nomad Visa

With the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa, you can enjoy an extended stay of up to 2 years within the country. This extended duration sets it apart from many other countries, which typically offer digital nomads a one-year stay. Colombia's generous duration allowance provides digital nomads with ample time to immerse themselves in the country's culture and explore its diverse landscapes.

Qualifications for the Colombia Nomad Visa

The Colombia Visa, designed to attract digital nomads and remote workers to the country, has specific qualifications that applicants must meet. These qualifications include:

• Monthly Income Requirement

To qualify for the Colombia Nomad Visa, you must demonstrate a consistent monthly income of at least $684. This income requirement ensures that you have the financial means to support yourself during your stay in Colombia. It also indicates your ability to contribute positively to the local economy.

• Valid Passport

You need to possess a valid passport. This is a fundamental requirement for any visa application, as it establishes your identity, nationality, and travel history. Ensure that your passport has sufficient validity remaining to cover your intended stay in Colombia.

• ID Card

Holding an ID card is another prerequisite for the Colombia Nomad Visa. This card is typically a form of national identification and is required for various administrative purposes within Colombia.

• Passport-Sized Photograph

Providing a passport-sized photograph is essential for your visa application. This photograph is often used for official documents and identification purposes during your stay in Colombia.

• Engagement in Remote Work

To be eligible for this visa, you should be engaged in remote work for a foreign company. This can include working as an employee or contractor for a company located outside of Colombia. This criterion reflects the visa's purpose to attract digital nomads who can contribute to the local economy while working remotely.

• Freelancing or Entrepreneurship

In addition to remote employment, the Colombia Nomad Visa is also open to freelancers and entrepreneurs. If you are a freelancer or entrepreneur with a legitimate business or freelance activity, you can use this visa as a platform to conduct your work in Colombia.

Advantages of Holding a Digital Nomad Visa in Colombia

Acquiring a Digital Nomad Visa in Colombia offers numerous benefits, including:

• Visa-free access to 133 destinations, making international travel convenient.
• Colombia's historical significance, including its connection to Pablo Escobar, adds an intriguing cultural dimension.
• Cost-effective visa application and lower expenses for accommodation and daily living.
• An extended stay of 2 years, allowing for a deeper immersion in Colombian life.
• Flexibility in income requirements, enabling the inclusion of family members in your application.
• Reduced visa processing fees.
• Expedited processing, ensuring a swift application turnaround.
• Proximity to the United States, making it a convenient base for American digital nomads.
• The convenience of an online application process, eliminating the need to visit a Colombian Embassy. Your Nomad Visa can be obtained in as little as 10 days, granting you the freedom to travel without an entry visa.

Essential Documents for the Colombia Nomad Visa Application

To initiate your Colombia Nomad Visa application, you'll need the following documents. Each of these required documents plays a crucial role in the Colombia Nomad Visa application process:

• Valid Passport: A current and valid passport serves as your primary identification and travel document, establishing your nationality and identity.

• Copy of Your Passport: Providing clear copies of relevant passport pages ensures that the authorities have access to your key identification details.

• Passport Photo: The recent passport-sized photograph adheres to official guidelines, enabling efficient identification and documentation.

• Proof of Legal Entry: Furnishing evidence of legal entry, such as entry stamps or visas, demonstrates your compliance with Colombian immigration laws.

• Letter from a Foreign Company (for Remote Work): This letter from your foreign employer confirms your remote work arrangement, offering transparency to Colombian authorities regarding your employment status.

• Motivational Letter (for Entrepreneurs and Freelancers): The motivational letter for entrepreneurs and freelancers outlines your professional aspirations in Colombia, showcasing your intent to contribute positively to the local economy.

• Bank Statements: Recent bank statements serve as tangible proof of your financial stability and capacity to sustain yourself during your stay in Colombia.

• Proof of Health Insurance: Valid health insurance coverage is a vital component, ensuring that you have access to healthcare services during your time in Colombia, addressing the visa's health-related requirements.

Collectively, these documents substantiate your eligibility, financial solvency, and adherence to Colombian regulations, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of the Colombia Nomad Visa as you explore the country as a digital nomad or remote worker.

NOTE:It's important to ensure that all documents are accurately prepared and meet the specified criteria to facilitate a smooth visa application process.

Colombia Digital Nomad Visa Fees and Processing Time

The fees associated with the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa vary, ranging from $177 to $250 per applicant. Importantly, this visa category also permits you to include your family members within the same application.

Typically, the processing time for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa takes approximately 30 days. This time frame provides applicants with a general idea of when to expect their visa to be processed and approved.

Bringing Your Family to Colombia on the Nomad Visa

One of the notable advantages of the Colombia Nomad Visa is that it allows you to bring your spouse and children to Colombia without imposing any additional income requirements. The income threshold for the primary applicant remains the same at $684 per month. This family-friendly policy enables digital nomads to relocate to Colombia with their loved ones, fostering a supportive and enriching experience for all.

Tax Obligations for Digital Nomads in Colombia

Digital nomads, by definition, are individuals who work remotely while frequently travelling and residing in different countries for short durations. In the context of Colombia, tax obligations are typically associated with tax residents, who have more permanent ties to the country.

Since digital nomads are considered non-residents, they are not subject to Colombian income tax, providing a favourable tax environment for their remote work endeavours in the country. This tax exemption simplifies financial matters for digital nomads and encourages them to explore Colombia as a destination for their lifestyle and work preferences.

Applying for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you're looking to secure the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa, the application process is streamlined and can be completed entirely online, eliminating the need for an embassy visit. Here's a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

• Gathering Essential Documents

These documents are essential to prove your eligibility and compliance with the visa criteria, such as income, identification, and legal status. Confirm that you have all these documents readily available, which will streamline the subsequent stages of your application.

• Access the Visa Application Website

Proceed to the official Application Website, which serves as the central platform for visa submissions. This website offers a user-friendly interface that simplifies the application process, making it accessible for applicants from around the world. It is the primary gateway to initiate your visa application.

• Completing the Online Application Form

This form captures essential details about your background, purpose of travel, and other pertinent information required for visa processing. Importantly, if this is your first time applying, you can leave the "Application Registration Number" field empty. The system will automatically generate a unique registration number for you once you submit the completed form.

• Document Upload

One of the key components of the application process is the submission of the required documents. Ensure that you meticulously upload each document as specified in the visa requirements. Proper document submission is vital, as it substantiates your eligibility and aids in the efficient processing of your application. Make sure that the documents are clear, legible, and meet the stipulated criteria.

• Await Application Updates

After successfully submitting your visa application, the processing phase begins. The Colombian authorities typically process visa applications within approximately 30 days. During this period, you should keep a close eye on your email inbox, as this is where you will receive updates regarding the status of your visa application.

By following these steps meticulously, you can navigate the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa application process with confidence, ensuring that you have all the required documents, complete the application form accurately, and remain informed throughout the processing period.

FAQS

What are the income requirements for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa in 2023?

To be eligible for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa in 2023, you need to demonstrate a monthly income of at least $684.

Can I include my family members in my Colombia Digital Nomad Visa application?

Yes, you can include your spouse and children in your Colombia Digital Nomad Visa application without additional income requirements. 

How does Colombia's income requirement compare to other countries offering digital nomad visas?

Colombia stands out for its exceptionally low income requirements compared to many other countries offering digital nomad visas. While some nations demand higher monthly incomes, Colombia's affordable threshold makes it an attractive option for digital nomads.

Is the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa a long-term or short-term visa?

The Colombia Digital Nomad Visa allows for an extended stay of up to 2 years, providing digital nomads with a longer-term option compared to some countries that offer only one-year visas.

What documents do I need to apply for the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa?

The required documents typically include a valid passport, a copy of your passport, a passport-sized photograph, proof of legal entry, a letter from a foreign company (for remote work), a motivational letter (for entrepreneurs and freelancers), bank statements, and proof of health insurance.

Do digital nomads have to pay income tax in Colombia?

No, digital nomads, as non-residents, are not obligated to pay income tax in Colombia. Their non-resident status exempts them from this requirement.