Understanding the Restrictions of Colombia's Digital Nomad Visa
- Rashanda Mc Kenna
- 2 hours ago
- 4 min read
Colombia has become a popular destination for digital nomads and remote workers seeking a vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and affordable living. To attract this growing group, Colombia introduced the Digital Nomad Visa (Visa V Nómadas Digitales). While this visa opens doors for many freelancers and remote workers, it comes with specific restrictions that every applicant must understand before making the move. This post breaks down the key limitations of Colombia's Digital Nomad Visa, helping you plan your stay without surprises.
Core Work Restrictions
One of the most important rules for digital nomads in Colombia is the prohibition on working for Colombian companies or clients. The visa explicitly forbids employment contracts with Colombian businesses or providing freelance services to Colombian clients. This means:
You cannot sign an employment contract with any Colombian company.
You cannot offer freelance or consulting services to clients based in Colombia.
You cannot receive payments from Colombian sources for work performed while in Colombia.
Your work must be done remotely for companies or clients located outside Colombia. For example, if you are a software developer contracted by a U.S. company, you can work legally under this visa. But if you try to take on a Colombian client or employer, you risk violating visa terms.
Financial and Income Restrictions
The visa also sets clear financial requirements to ensure applicants have a stable foreign income. Here are the main points:
| Restriction | Details |
|-------------------|----------------------------------------------|
| Minimum Income | Must maintain at least 3 times Colombia’s minimum wage (~COP 4.27 million / ~$1,100 USD monthly) throughout your stay. |
| Income Source | Income must come exclusively from foreign sources. |
| Banking | ATM withdrawals are limited to between COP 600,000 and 3 million per transaction. |
This means you need to prove a steady income from outside Colombia and maintain it during your stay. For example, if you earn $1,500 USD monthly from a client, you meet the minimum income requirement. However, if your income drops below this threshold, your visa status could be at risk.
Duration and Residency Restrictions
The Digital Nomad Visa allows a maximum stay of up to 2 years, but immigration officials have discretion to grant shorter periods. Important points include:
The visa does not provide a path to permanent residency in Colombia.
Time spent on this visa does not count toward residency requirements.
There is no formal renewal process; you must reapply from scratch if you want to extend your stay.
Staying in Colombia for more than 183 days within any 365 days triggers tax residency, making you liable for Colombian global income tax.
For example, if you stay for 200 days in a year, you must file taxes in Colombia on your worldwide income, which could complicate your finances.
Documentation and Compliance Restrictions
Maintaining proper documentation and compliance is critical:
Health insurance is mandatory. You must have private coverage valid in Colombia for the entire stay, with a minimum coverage of $30,000 USD. If your insurance expires, your visa status is jeopardized.
For stays longer than 3 months, you must register with Migración Colombia and obtain a Cédula de Extranjería (foreign ID card).
Frequent travel in and out of Colombia can raise suspicion. Authorities may investigate if they suspect visa abuse through repeated exits and re-entries.
A remote worker staying 6 months must register and carry valid health insurance at all times. Missing these steps could lead to fines or visa cancellation.
Family and Dependent Restrictions
The visa allows dependents such as spouses and children under 25 to accompany the primary visa holder. However:
Dependents do not automatically receive work authorization.
Additional financial proof may be required to support dependents during the stay.
If you plan to bring your family, be prepared to show extra income or savings to meet immigration requirements. Also, your spouse or children cannot work legally unless they obtain separate work permits.
Recent Enforcement Changes in 2025
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has tightened enforcement of these rules starting in 2025. This means:
Authorities are more actively checking compliance with income and work restrictions.
Visa holders face stricter scrutiny on travel patterns and documentation.
Non-compliance can lead to visa revocation or denial of future applications.
Digital nomads and remote workers should stay updated on any changes and keep all paperwork in order to avoid issues.
Practical Tips for Digital Nomads in Colombia
Keep all contracts and invoices showing your foreign clients and income sources.
Maintain valid health insurance at all times and renew it before expiration.
Register with Migración Colombia promptly if your stay exceeds three months.
Avoid working for Colombian clients or companies, even informally.
Track your days in Colombia carefully to manage tax residency risks.
If bringing family, prepare additional financial documents and understand their visa limitations.
Final Thoughts
Colombia’s Digital Nomad Visa offers a great opportunity for remote workers and freelancers to live and work in an exciting country. Yet, the visa comes with clear restrictions on work, income, duration, and compliance. Understanding these rules helps you avoid legal trouble and enjoy your stay fully.
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