How to Move to Colombia - 10 Essential Steps [Read Before Visiting]
Table of Contents
Introduction
Visa availability
Where to live
Cost of living
Learn Spanish
Join social media communities
Get health insurance
Move to your city
Apply for long term visa
Apply for cedula
Open a bank account
Conclusion
Introduction
So, you're planning on moving to Colombia? It's a big decision, filled with excitement and novelty. Whether you were drawn by the warm weather or the vibrancy of the culture, one thing is for sure – there's lot to think about! Fear not, with this complete and practical guide, you will walk away with how to make a successful and smart move to Colombia.
Visa Availability
The first hurdle is getting a visa. Visa requirements differ by nationality. Typically, citizens of the EU, US, and Canada can enter Colombia with just a passport and stay for 90 days. For stays longer than this, you'll need to apply for a digital nomad, student or migrant visa. Websites like iVisa or VisaHQ can help you determine what kind of visa you'll need based on your home country. For longer term stays you will need to find a lawyer to help apply for a visa, and there are plenty of English speaking lawyers to help you through this process. If you speak fluent Spanish or are comfortable navigating all the paperwork on your own, then no need for a lawyer because we have been told it is relatively straight forward process. Remember, staying legal is vital during your move!
Where to live in Colombia?
Next, you'll need to decide exactly where you want to live in Colombia. Do you prefer the traditional-meets-modern city of Medellín with its digital nomad community and perfect weather? Or does the bustling metropolis of Bogotá with its high-end shopping and lively nightlife sound more your speed? Cartagena, Barranquilla, and Santa Marta all have their unique charms and offer the smaller city life with less city chaos!
Ultimately, the choice depends on your preferences and lifestyle. If you want an in depth analysis on where most of the Colombia Expats live, read this this blog!
Cost of Living - The question you all have been waiting for!
Cost of living is a crucial factor when moving. Colombia has a lower cost of living than most countries, it is less costly than 88% of countries worldwide. It is more affordable without giving up some western amenities that give you comfort such as clean tap water and high quality food. It varies based on location and lifestyle - downtown Medellín rents a one-bedroom apartment for about $500 a month, whereas in Bogotá it may cost $600. Also, groceries and dining are less expensive compared to Western standards, but imported goods can be pricier. The reality of this is it all depends on the lifestyle you live. If you want something a bit nicer that feels more luxurious, then look in El Poblado in Medellin or Chapinero in Bogota. Prices in these areas can get into the western prices, but offer tenfold what you would get in a western country. Beautiful thing about Colombia is you can get a delicious meal for as low as $3 USD or go to a nice restaurant and pay $100 plus USD - options are endless!
Learn Spanish!
Bienvenidos a Colombia! I emphasize this one because if you want to integrate into a country, one should learn the native language! One fundamental step for a smooth transition is to learn Spanish, the country's official language. Some Colombians speak English, especially in touristy areas, but don’t count on English to get around. However, speaking the local language will open a world of opportunities and authentic experiences.
There are numerous resources available to learn Spanish, including DuoLingo, Babbel or in-person language schools. In the cities, there are many free language exchange prorams to in classroom learning to private lessons. Whatever your budget and motivations are, there is something for everyone!
Join Social Media Communities
In today's digital age, there are numerous benefits to joining social media communities. From Facebook groups to expatriate platforms, there are abundant resources to guide your move to Colombia. These platforms are overflowing with valuable real-world insights about living in Colombia. Advice on everything from the best neighborhoods to local customs can be found with a simple search. A great Facebook group to join before moving is called “Gringo Paisa.” A group where many different types of qustions are asked and answered and a lot of friendly expats! Learning the Colombian culture is important to help understand your new life here. Expat forums can help this immensely without learning the hard way! It's also a great way to make connections before you land on Colombia!
Get Health Insurance (SafetyWing is what we use!)
Before you hit Colombian soil, you'll want to sort out your health insurance. SafetyWing is a popular choice among digital nomads and expatriates, offering comprehensive global health insurance at affordable prices.
They offer flexible, pay-as-you-go plans that cover unexpected illness or injury, including coronavirus. Having adequate health insurance is not just sensible, it's an absolute must. We have been using them for years think they are the best among the rest! Click here to get started on it! Very easy and fast with no obligations if you decide to cancel!
Move to Your New City
You've planned, organized, and now it's time to make your move! This is assuming you decided to either; bring your current belongings down or will you buy all new stuff. It is possible to buy furnished apartments/houses to make this decision much easier! There are experts in local logistics and can help with everything from packing to customs clearance. Do a quick google search and you will come across some options if you need that service! Keep in mind - electronic devices(i.e. TV’s, cell phones, computers) are more expensive and I think this is due to customs taxes businesses have to pay to get the products into Colombia. In my opinion, I think it is over all cheaper to buy those things here, except laptops and cell phones because that is very easy to bring in!
Apply for a Long-term Visa
If you plan on staying longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a long term visa. The process can be complex and require a fair bit of bureaucratic navigation. That's where immigration lawyers come in – they can simplify the process and guide you every step of the way. There are many options and if you reach out to one and they don’t offer that service, they can point you in a direction that will have that service.
Someone we used is from MLP (Medellin Legal Partners) and it was a very straight forward process. They speak English and are attentive through the whole visa process. We used them with our whole house buying process so feel we can recommend them! It is possible to do this process without a lawyer and it will be a lot cheaper, but this is assuming you speak fluent Spanish! If you aren’t fluent in Spanish or aren’t comfortable speaking and writing in legal terms, I highly recommend paying a lawyer to do this for you. Any small mistake can get your visa application denied.
Apply for a Cédula de Extranjería (Can Only Get After You Have Visa)
Once the visa is sorted, you'll want to apply for a Colombian ID card – "cédula." This is essential for many things in Colombia, from opening a local bank account to obtaining a driver's license. You can't apply for a cédula without a visa, so keep this step in mind once your visa is sorted. You don’t need a cedula, but it will certainly only benefit you if you plan to stay here long term. You can get around with just your passport for a little while, but if you want to call Colombia your new home, then getting a cedula is a necessity. For example, to get wifi set up in your house, you will need a cedula. Otherwise, you will need to find someone with a cedula to set it up for you.
Open a Bank Account
When you first bring your home currency into Colombia to exchange in pesos, there are really only two reliable options in my opinion; Alianza Valrores and Acciones Valores. They are an equivalent to an investment bank. We used Alianza Valores so we are a bit more familiar with it. Lawayers can help you decide which is best for your situation. We are from the United States, so we used Alianza because they are partnered with CitiBank which is a popular and notable US bank. Once you move your home currency into Colombia, you can they buy your house and whatever else. These are not banks for local transactions and don’t provide debit cards. They agree to help initially with transfers and then will tell you to get a local bank for further local transactions. Their transfer fees are also very high, so getting a local bank is something you will want to do fast! Having a local bank account can make life easier – from paying rent and utilities to receiving local payments. Bancolombia and Banco de Bogotá are among the most popular banks among expats. There are many more options for banks as they are on almost every corner. Remember, you'll need your cédula first, so make sure to have it handy!
Last, but not least!
Enjoy Your New Life Here! Okay, maybe you don’t need to dance the night away to enjoy your new life here, but it certainly won’t hurt you! Most Colombians love to dance and it is a very fun thing about the culture here - so indulge! You just worked so hard to get here and it was probably exhausting, at least for us it was! When we came here, there were no guides like this one to help us through everything which we wish we had! We paved the way and documented the whole thing so you don’t have to figure it out!
Of course there are some things you will have to decide for yourself based of your personal circumstances, but nothing you have overcome before! We love meeting new and old expats, so drop us a line and maybe we can go grab a Club Colombia or jugo de sandía to your newfound success!
Conclusion
Now, if stepping out of your comfort zone and taking this leap of faith sounds like your cup of coffee, then you have endless resources here in and out of Colombia that are ready to help. Embarking on a new chapter in Colombia requires meticulous planning. Ensure visa availability, explore ideal living locations, and understand the cost of living. Also, language immersion is key—learn Spanish to navigate seamlessly. Joining local social media communities provides valuable insights. Prioritize health with comprehensive insurance. As you finalize your move, choose the right city and apply for a long-term visa. Obtain a cedula for identification and open a local bank account for financial ease. These ten steps form a comprehensive guide for a smooth transition, embracing the beauty and opportunities Colombia has to offer. Your journey awaits!
FAQ’s
Is it difficult to find information about visa availability for Colombia?
Not at all. The Colombian government provides clear guidelines on visa types and requirements. Visit their official website or consult with your nearest Colombian consulate for up-to-date information.
How can I connect with expat communities in Colombia?
Joining social media groups dedicated to expats is a great way to connect. Platforms like Facebook and Meetup host communities where you can seek advice, share experiences, and build a network.
What health insurance options are available for expats in Colombia?
Colombia offers a variety of health insurance plans for expats. Explore local providers and international insurance options to find a plan that suits your needs and budget.
Can I open a bank account as a foreigner in Colombia?
Yes, many banks in Colombia allow foreigners to open accounts. You'll typically need your visa, cedula, and proof of address. Research different banks to find one that aligns with your preferences.
How long does it take to learn Spanish before moving to Colombia?
The time required to learn Spanish varies, but basic proficiency is recommended. Engage in language courses, online platforms, or local classes. Practice regularly to enhance your communication skills before making the move.
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