The retirement age in Colombia is 57 for women and 62 for men. For citizens of the country there are several schemes that can pay out an old age pension, but these are dependent upon a minimum number of contributions and there are some sectors of the community that do not have access to these schemes.

Expats who have been resident in the country for many years and who have the status of a permanent resident may be able to pay into one of these schemes to guarantee a pension for retiring. This will depend upon which sector you have been working in and the contributions that you have made.

Those who are eligible for a pension from their country of origin may find that they are able to claim it even while living in Colombia. This will depend upon the country and the reciprocal agreements that they have in place with the Colombian government. It is advisable to check with the Pension department in your home country to ensure that you will be able to have it paid to you abroad. Some countries may not be able to transfer the monies for you, in which case it could be paid into a bank account in your home country for you to transfer yourself.

Those who are in receipt of a private pension will need to make similar enquiries with their pension company, as there are many organisations which will not transfer monies abroad.

Being in receipt of a pension is essential if you wish to retire to Colombia as for a long term visa you will need to be able to prove that you can support yourself financially. The country has no specific schemes for encouraging retirees from other countries to move to Colombia, although there is an increasing willingness to accept foreign investment, so those who wish to buy land or property are welcomed.

Expats are attracted to Colombia for the warmer climate and the low cost of living. The cost of renting a property can be half that of a similar home in the USA or UK. There are many benefits to living in the country and for those who are looking for a simpler way of life in their later years it may be ideal. There are opportunities for enjoying various sports such as water sports and the cities have a variety of restaurants, cinemas and shops that will suit the needs of most people.