Colombia – Buying Property

Can foreign nationals legally buy and own property in Colombia?

As of early 2026, non-Colombian citizens have a clear legal right to purchase residential property in the country, rooted in the Colombian Constitution’s guarantee that foreigners enjoy the same civil rights as nationals unless a specific statute provides otherwise. This is a notably inclusive position compared with many other nations — Thailand, for instance, limits foreign ownership to leasehold arrangements, and New Zealand requires overseas buyers to obtain prior approval. Colombia imposes no equivalent barriers on standard residential or commercial transactions.

International buyers may acquire residential apartments, condominiums, commercial buildings, and urban land without any nationality-based limitations. Full ownership title — formalised as an escritura pública — is granted, and the owner is free to sell, lease, or transfer the asset at will. In most circumstances, there is no requirement to involve a Colombian business partner or incorporate a local company in order to hold property outright.

The practical constraints that foreign purchasers face relate to location rather than citizenship: properties situated near international borders (within roughly 100 kilometres) and certain categories of rural state-origin land known as “baldíos” demand additional scrutiny or may be prohibited altogether. The legal foundation for these border-zone controls is Colombia’s Law 191 of 1995, which establishes special rules for frontier areas on grounds of national security and the public interest.

The simplest way around these constraints is to focus on established urban markets — such as El Poblado in Medellín, Chapinero in Bogotá, or Bocagrande in Cartagena — where no special authorisation is needed and the full range of property types is freely available to foreign buyers.

International purchasers must obtain a Colombian Tax Identification Number (Número de Identificación Tributaria, or NIT), issued by the national tax authority DIAN. The NIT is a prerequisite for registering the purchased property, meeting tax obligations, and paying property-related levies in Colombia. Guidance on obtaining a NIT is available through the official DIAN website: www.dian.gov.co. Property title records and registration fall under the authority of the Superintendencia de Notariado y Registro (SNR): www.supernotariado.gov.co.

What are average property prices in Colombia, and how do they vary by region?

Colombia’s per-square-metre prices rank among the lowest in Latin America and have been edging downward over recent months. The figures below reflect conditions as of Q1 2025. In upper-middle-class neighbourhoods across Bogotá, prices typically range from around COP 5 million (approximately US$1,220) to COP 9 million (approximately US$2,200) per square metre. By comparison, equivalent central districts in Buenos Aires or Santiago command considerably higher prices, giving Colombia a clear advantage for buyers seeking value.

Apartment prices within Bogotá shift considerably depending on the neighbourhood, the age of the building, and local planning regulations. In 2025, purchase prices for apartments generally range from USD 1,000 to USD 2,500 per square metre, with premium locations exceeding that ceiling. Across the city, apartments span a broad spectrum from around USD 100,000 to several million dollars. Smaller towns and rural locations naturally offer lower entry points.

A number of Colombian cities recorded significant nominal price increases in 2024. Cúcuta posted the steepest rise at 24.63%, followed by Pasto at 18.34%, Popayán at 15.59%, Barranquilla on the Caribbean coast at 14.77%, and the wider Bogotá metropolitan area at 13.73%. It is worth noting that these are nominal gains; real increases adjusted for inflation were considerably more modest.

Coastal tourist cities such as Cartagena and Santa Marta attract a pricing premium, particularly for beachfront and holiday-zone units. With a population of approximately 1.07 million (2025) and a UNESCO-listed historic centre, Cartagena sustains robust demand for luxury and short-stay properties. Prime districts like Bocagrande and Castillogrande can match Bogotá’s top neighbourhoods on a per-square-metre basis, while Santa Marta generally provides a more accessible entry point. For the latest asking prices, consult established Colombian listings platforms such as Metrocuadrado or FincaRaíz, as figures move regularly.

Where are the most popular locations to buy property in Colombia?

Bogotá, home to roughly 7.94 million people (2025 projection), draws corporate employment, higher education, cultural institutions, and the country’s most heavily used airport, El Dorado — a combination that underpins consistent rental demand and solid resale liquidity. Neighbourhoods such as Chapinero, an economic and cultural hub, and Santa Bárbara, known for its green spaces and amenities, are particularly popular among foreign purchasers. The capital is well suited to buyers targeting long-term rental income or capital appreciation tied to ongoing urban infrastructure investment.

Medellín counts approximately 2.63 million city residents and a metropolitan population exceeding four million. Its culture is outward-facing and community-oriented, and the Metro and Metrocable network keep prime areas readily accessible. An estimated homicide rate of around 11 per 100,000 in 2024 — a multi-decade low — combined with a thriving tourism sector and accessible healthcare, underpins steady absorption in El Poblado and Laureles. Medellín has established itself as one of Latin America’s most talked-about expat destinations, boasting a vibrant international community and a buoyant short-term rental market.

Cartagena’s population of around 1.07 million and its UNESCO-designated walled city keep demand strong for luxury and short-stay stock. Rafael Núñez Airport processed approximately 7.5 million passengers in 2024, supporting year-round visitor numbers. Security varies across the city, so properties in buildings with rigorous guest vetting, round-the-clock reception, and clear tourist rental permissions tend to command premiums and encounter fewer administrative hurdles.

Santa Marta offers a gateway to Tayrona National Natural Park and presents lower purchase prices than Cartagena while still drawing substantial holiday demand. The city appeals to buyers seeking a coastal lifestyle at a more manageable cost, particularly those targeting the vacation rental segment.

Bucaramanga — frequently called the City of Parks — combines universities and healthcare facilities with quieter streets than the larger coastal hubs, translating into more stable long-term tenancy. Recent data show declining theft figures and a homicide rate of approximately 21 per 100,000 in 2024, supporting conservative cash-flow projections. Entry prices are lighter than Bogotá or Cartagena for comparable unit sizes.

Are there any emerging or up-and-coming areas worth considering in Colombia?

Cities like Barranquilla and Bucaramanga present a higher-risk profile than the established hubs but offer the prospect of stronger returns. Barranquilla, Colombia’s fourth-largest city and a key Caribbean port, has attracted growing infrastructure investment and recorded some of the strongest price appreciation nationally in 2024. Its role as a major industrial and logistics centre, combined with steadily improving urban amenities, is drawing buyers priced out of Cartagena.

Among the infrastructure projects most likely to influence property values over the coming five years are the Metro de Bogotá (scheduled for completion in 2028), the Metro de la 80 corridor expansion in Medellín, and the ANI 5G highway concession programme linking regional cities. In Colombia, proximity to completed major transit infrastructure typically commands a price premium of 15% to 30% over comparable properties without transit access. The neighbourhoods set to benefit most include Primera de Mayo and other southern Bogotá zones along the Metro corridor, as well as western Medellín districts near Calle 80.

The Coffee Triangle (Eje Cafetero) — taking in Manizales, Armenia, and Pereira — is attracting increasing attention from digital nomads and eco-tourism investors alike. Properties in this region tend to be markedly cheaper than in the main cities, and the area’s agreeable climate and natural scenery make it especially attractive to lifestyle buyers and those developing boutique accommodation. Pereira in particular has benefited from improved air links, cutting travel times to both Bogotá and Medellín.

What are the current trends in the property market in Colombia?

In Q2 2025, Colombia’s nationwide new house price index climbed 4.26% year on year, continuing a run of positive annual readings throughout 2024. When inflation is factored in, however, prices edged down by 0.75% year on year in real terms during the same quarter. This distinction matters for investors: nominal returns remain in positive territory, but real purchasing-power gains have been subdued in the near term.

New home sales across Colombia rose 5% year on year to 152,246 units in 2024, a marked turnaround from the annual contractions of 39.3% and 7.5% recorded in 2023 and 2022 respectively. The recovery has continued into 2025, with nationwide housing sales up 4.1% year on year to 77,151 units in the first half of the year.

Renting has overtaken ownership as the most common form of housing tenure in Colombia, with 7.3 million renting households compared with 7.1 million owner-occupiers. Constrained supply of new housing, set against this structural shift toward renting, has pushed rental prices higher, shortened the time needed to let or sell existing properties, and reinforced the case for buy-to-let investment. This durable demand from tenants forms a solid foundation for landlord investors.

Demand for sustainable and eco-friendly homes is rising in line with broader global trends. Mixed-use developments — combining residential, retail, and leisure uses within a single scheme — are gaining traction across the market. Remote working has also reshaped buyer preferences, with purchasers from major Colombian cities and abroad increasingly seeking property in well-connected smaller cities and the Coffee Region.

The Metro de Bogotá has reached 70% completion and is already stimulating demand in corridor neighbourhoods ahead of opening. For up-to-date market analysis, refer to official data from Banco de la República (Banrep) and the industry body Camacol.

Is buying property in Colombia a good investment?

The average gross rental yield across Colombia stood at 7.03% in Q2 2025. In April 2025, for example, one-bedroom apartments in Bogotá averaged yields of 7.19%, while units with four or more bedrooms averaged 9.32%. The highest average yield nationally was recorded in Cali, where three-bedroom properties averaged 9.94%. These figures compare favourably with major Western European markets, where gross yields of 3%–5% are far more common in primary cities.

Colombia’s property market has delivered substantial long-term capital growth. Between 2005 and 2024, nationwide prices for existing homes surged by 375% in nominal terms — equivalent to 93% on an inflation-adjusted basis. Looking ahead, as of early 2026 cumulative nominal property price growth in Colombia over the following decade is projected to reach 70% to 120% in peso terms, equivalent to roughly 15% to 35% in real terms after accounting for inflation.

Currency movements can materially alter the economics of a transaction. The Colombian peso depreciated by around 40% against the US dollar from 2015 onward, making Colombian real estate more affordable for dollar-denominated buyers at the point of purchase. However, exchange-rate shifts work in both directions, and the same dynamics can reduce returns when rental income or sale proceeds are converted back into the buyer’s home currency. Monitoring rates and considering hedging strategies is prudent.

Any property used for short-term tourist rental must be registered in Colombia’s National Tourism Register (Registro Nacional de Turismo, or RNT). The online registration process takes approximately five days and must be renewed annually. In tourist hotspots such as Cartagena and Medellín, short-term rentals can generate strong returns, though managing a property remotely requires a reliable local manager.

As with all asset classes, property investment carries risk. Market values can move in response to economic conditions, political developments, and shifts in local demand. Profitability is never guaranteed. Independent financial advice should always be sought before committing capital to any property purchase.

What types of property are commonly available to buy in Colombia?

Colombia’s real estate market encompasses apartments, houses, commercial premises, and land, across both new-build developments and existing stock. Apartments (apartamentos) dominate urban supply in Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and Cartagena. They are typically situated within gated residential complexes (conjuntos cerrados) or high-rise towers offering shared facilities such as gyms, swimming pools, and 24-hour security.

Two- and three-bedroom apartments in established neighbourhoods remain the most liquid property type in the Colombian market, attracting the widest pool of buyers and holding their value most reliably during uncertain conditions. Houses (casas) are more prevalent in suburban and lower-density settings and in smaller towns; detached urban houses command a premium relative to apartments because they are comparatively scarce in densely built city cores.

Coastal destinations such as Cartagena and Santa Marta offer beachfront apartments, resort villas, and gated community properties. Growing tourism has fuelled demand for luxury seafront stock in both cities. The Coffee Region is notable for its fincas — rural farmhouses or country estates — which have found an enthusiastic audience among lifestyle buyers and boutique hospitality entrepreneurs. Raw land plots (lotes) are also available on urban fringes and in rural areas, though foreign buyers should apply especially rigorous due diligence to title clarity before committing to any land-only purchase.

What is the typical step-by-step process for buying property in Colombia?

Purchasing property in Colombia follows a well-defined legal framework that generally takes four to eight weeks from agreement to completion. Unlike the conveyancing process in countries such as the United Kingdom or Australia, where solicitors manage the bulk of the transfer independently, in Colombia the notary plays a central role in executing the legal handover. It is important to understand, however, that a Colombian notary authenticates documents rather than providing legal advice, which makes independent legal representation particularly important for foreign buyers.

1. Obtain your Colombian Tax ID (NIT). Register for a RUT with DIAN to obtain a NIT — the process is free, and foreigners can apply from outside the country through DIAN’s online PQSR channel.
2. Search for a property and conduct market research. Use established platforms such as Metrocuadrado or FincaRaíz. Because obtaining a Colombian mortgage without local residency and verifiable Colombian income is difficult, most foreign buyers transact in cash. Define your budget with this in mind.
3. Make an offer and sign a Promise of Sale (Promesa de Compraventa). This binding agreement sets out the conditions of the transaction, covering the price, timeline, currency, payment arrangements, and how notarial costs will be apportioned. A deposit — typically 10%–30% of the agreed price — is ordinarily paid at this stage.
4. Commission a title study (Estudio de Títulos). A thorough title study traces the chain of ownership to confirm all prior transfers were lawful and properly registered, identifies any liens, debts, mortgages, unpaid taxes, or embargoes, reviews zoning regulations and heritage restrictions, and verifies the property’s boundaries and registry data for consistency.
5. Obtain the Certificado de Tradición y Libertad. This document — which Colombian courts rely on to determine ownership and encumbrances — should be obtained fresh and directly from the SNR portal. It costs approximately COP 35,900 online (mid-2025) and remains valid for 30 days.
6. Register your foreign investment with Banco de la República. If purchase funds are being transferred from abroad, the investment must be registered with Banco de la República. This registration safeguards your right to repatriate capital and may be required to qualify for an investor visa. The filing must be submitted within 12 months of the transaction.
7. Sign the public deed (Escritura Pública) at a notary. Both parties appear in person at a notary office to execute the Escritura Pública, which effects the legal transfer of ownership. Remember that notaries authenticate the document rather than advising on its legal consequences — that responsibility rests with your lawyer.
8. Register the property with the public registry. The notarised deed is lodged with the local Oficina de Instrumentos Públicos. Legal ownership is not complete until your name is recorded on the official Certificado de Tradición y Libertad.
9. Pay all taxes and fees. Settle all transfer taxes, notary charges, and registration fees to finalise the purchase. The taxes and costs section below provides a full breakdown.

If you are purchasing from abroad, a power of attorney is required, which must be apostilled and officially translated into Spanish. Always appoint a trusted local lawyer to act under that authority on your behalf.

Do I need a lawyer to buy property in Colombia, and how do I find a reputable one?

Foreign nationals may legally buy property in Colombia without holding residency or demonstrating local income. That said, the process involves strict legal and notarial procedures that can be difficult to navigate without familiarity with the Spanish language, the notarial system, and Colombian due diligence requirements. Although engaging a lawyer is not an absolute statutory requirement for every transaction, it is very strongly advisable — particularly for overseas buyers.

A qualified Colombian property lawyer will draft and review the Contrato de Promesa de Compraventa — the legally binding preliminary sale agreement that sets out all terms — conduct the title study, advise on zoning and land-use restrictions, manage the Banco de la República registration process, and scrutinise the public deed before it is signed. Their involvement at every stage substantially reduces the risk of costly errors or fraud.

Principal closing cost categories in Colombia include notary fees (roughly 0.3%–0.5% of the transaction value, customarily split equally between buyer and seller), attorney fees (typically 1%–2% of the value or a fixed sum), registration fees in accordance with SNR tariffs (around 0.5%–1%), and real estate agent commissions (generally 3%, paid by the seller, though terms can vary). Confirm current rates directly with your chosen lawyer, as these figures are subject to change.

Colombian lawyers (abogados) practising property law should be registered with the Consejo Superior de la Judicatura, Colombia’s judicial regulatory authority. Registration can be verified through the Rama Judicial website (www.ramajudicial.gov.co). The Colegio de Abogados de Colombia also maintains a professional register at www.colegioabogados.co. Seek recommendations from the expat community, your country’s embassy, or established international real estate firms operating in Colombia. Always select a lawyer with demonstrable experience handling property transactions for foreign clients.

What are the most common pitfalls and problems expats encounter when buying property in Colombia?

Title defects and disputed ownership. Clear, unencumbered title is essential. Certain areas have a history of informal settlements or unresolved land claims that can give rise to disputes or legal challenges down the line. Always insist on a full title study extending back at least 10–20 years before committing to any agreement.

Failing to register foreign investment with Banco de la República. The closing-cost requirement that most frequently catches foreign buyers off-guard is the need to structure incoming wire transfers as formally registered foreign investment through Banco de la República’s systems. Omitting this step can create expensive complications when you eventually wish to sell and transfer the proceeds abroad. Potential consequences include losing eligibility for the investor visa, difficulty repatriating funds or demonstrating their origin to DIAN, and possible financial penalties.

Signing a Promesa de Compraventa without legal advice. Colombian property law is specific about contractual formalities, and issues such as unresolved title problems, zoning restrictions, or active legal disputes can complicate or derail a transaction. Never sign a preliminary agreement before your lawyer has reviewed it in full.

Assuming the contract alone transfers ownership. Skipping formal registration leaves you without legal protection against the seller transferring the property to a third party, creditors placing a lien on it, or heirs challenging your claim years later. Registration with the Oficina de Instrumentos Públicos is a legal requirement for ownership to be complete and enforceable.

Undisclosed debts and property tax arrears. A property may carry outstanding mortgage balances, utility debts, or unpaid Impuesto Predial (annual property tax). Before closing, request a paz y salvo (municipal certificate confirming no outstanding liabilities) and have your lawyer check for any encumbrances recorded on the Certificado de Tradición y Libertad.

Off-plan purchase risks. Pre-construction (sobre planos) purchases can be attractively priced but expose buyers to developer insolvency and construction delays. Always verify the developer’s track record and confirm that buyer deposits are held in an escrow account. Enforce compliance with building regulations and tourist rental registration requirements from an early stage.

Currency transfer risks. Fluctuating exchange rates can significantly alter the real cost of a transaction. Using a currency specialist rather than a conventional bank to transfer purchase funds can generate meaningful savings on large sums.

Unlicensed agents. Colombia’s real estate agency sector carries lighter formal licensing requirements than markets such as the United States or Australia. Always confirm an agent’s membership of a recognised professional body such as the Federación Colombiana de Lonjas de Propiedad Raíz (Fedelonjas) at www.fedelonjas.org.co.

Can I buy property in Colombia through a company, and is it worth doing?

A foreign-owned company may legally acquire residential property in Colombia, including entities wholly owned by non-Colombian citizens. Foreign investors sometimes employ corporate vehicles comparable to LLCs, most commonly a Colombian SAS (Sociedad por Acciones Simplificada). The SAS is the preferred structure among international investors due to its operational flexibility and a relatively straightforward incorporation process.

Holding property through a corporate structure can offer several potential advantages: simplified estate planning and inheritance management (avoiding probate on Colombian assets), the ability to transfer ownership via share sale rather than a formal property deed transaction, and possible tax efficiency where the property generates commercial rental income. For investors managing multiple properties, a corporate vehicle can also streamline administration and financial reporting.

There are, however, notable drawbacks. Incorporating and maintaining a Colombian company involves additional costs, including accountancy fees, corporate tax returns, and ongoing compliance obligations. Corporate ownership may also complicate eligibility for the investor visa, which is typically linked to personal property ownership. Some buyers and lenders may be more cautious about transacting with corporate vendors.

Whether a corporate structure is appropriate depends heavily on your individual tax position in both Colombia and your home country. Sound legal representation, thorough due diligence, and compliance with foreign investment registration obligations are the cornerstones of any successful purchase. Always take independent legal and tax advice from professionals qualified in both Colombian law and the tax regime of your country of residence before committing to a corporate ownership structure.

What taxes and ongoing costs should I budget for when owning property in Colombia?

For a typical buyer who carries out standard due diligence and shares notarial costs with the seller as is customary, total transaction fees and taxes generally amount to around 3%–4% of the purchase price. A realistic low-to-high range covering the full spectrum of standard property transactions is 2%–6%, with straightforward cash purchases at the lower end and complex deals involving extensive legal work at the higher end.

Residential property sales in Colombia do not attract IVA (VAT). The tax rate on the property price itself is 0%; IVA may apply to associated services but not to the sale transaction. A significant development affecting Colombian property taxes in 2025 was the reintroduction of stamp duty on high-value real estate. The Impuesto de Timbre was reinstated in February 2025, having been removed from most transactions in 2024. Properties valued above 20,000 UVT (COP 995,980,000) now attract a 1.5% charge, while those exceeding 50,000 UVT (COP 2,489,950,000) face 3% on the amount above that threshold. This was a temporary measure running through 31 December 2025, primarily affecting luxury residential sales in the main cities. Confirm the current position with your notary or lawyer for any transaction taking place in 2026.

Annual property tax (Impuesto Predial): All property owners, including foreign nationals, are liable for the municipal Impuesto Predial each year. This is a locally administered tax calculated on the cadastral value of the property, with rates differing between municipalities. It functions similarly to council tax in the UK or local rates in Australia, though it is typically lower in absolute terms.

Capital gains on resale: To be taxed as a capital gain rather than ordinary income, the property must have been held as a fixed asset for at least two years. If sold within two years of acquisition, any profit is taxed as regular income, potentially at rates of up to 39%. A holding period exceeding two years qualifies the gain for a flat 15% capital gains tax rate.

Rental income tax: Non-resident owners are required to declare only the income and gains arising from their Colombian property, not their worldwide assets. Costs related to property maintenance, management fees, and insurance premiums can be partially offset against taxable rental income.

For current, authoritative tax rates and guidance, consult the DIAN official website (www.dian.gov.co).

What are the official sources I should consult when buying property in Colombia?

The bodies listed below are your principal authoritative references when purchasing property in Colombia. Always verify current figures directly with each source, as fees, thresholds, and regulatory requirements are subject to change.

• Superintendencia de Notariado y Registro (SNR) — Colombia’s official property registry and notarial authority, responsible for all title records and registration. This is where you obtain the Certificado de Tradición y Libertad. Website: www.supernotariado.gov.co
• Dirección de Impuestos y Aduanas Nacionales (DIAN) — Colombia’s national tax authority, covering NIT/RUT registration, income tax, and capital gains tax. Website: www.dian.gov.co
• Banco de la República (Banrep) — Colombia’s central bank, which handles the mandatory registration of foreign investment by non-resident buyers. Website: www.banrep.gov.co
• Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores (Cancillería) — Issues the investor visa (Visa M Inversionista) and provides immigration information. Website: www.cancilleria.gov.co
• Instituto Geográfico Agustín Codazzi (IGAC) — Colombia’s national geographic and cadastral institute, providing cadastral certificates and land-use data. Website: www.igac.gov.co
• Agencia Nacional de Tierras (ANT) — Oversees rural land and baldío (state-origin land) regulations, relevant for agricultural and rural property purchases. Website: www.agenciadetierras.gov.co
• Fedelonjas (Federación Colombiana de Lonjas de Propiedad Raíz) — The national federation of real estate professionals; a useful resource for identifying registered agents. Website: www.fedelonjas.org.co
• Camacol (Cámara Colombiana de la Construcción) — Colombia’s construction industry chamber, publishing authoritative market data and housing statistics. Website: camacol.co

Frequently asked questions about buying property in Colombia

Do I need to be a resident or have a visa to buy property in Colombia?

Neither residency nor a special visa is required to purchase property in Colombia. You may legally acquire real estate while present on a standard 90-day tourist visitor permit. Colombian law permits non-residents to own property with no pre-approval process and no minimum period of prior stay.

Can buying property in Colombia lead to a visa or residency?

Colombia offers a Golden Visa (Visa M) to real estate investors who purchase property worth at least 350 times the current monthly minimum wage (approximately USD 120,000 as of August 2025). This visa provides enhanced rights for those intending to live or work in Colombia. After maintaining the qualifying investment and holding temporary residency for five years, you may apply for permanent residency (R visa). Following a further five years as a permanent resident, Colombian citizenship becomes an option.

Can I get a mortgage in Colombia as a foreign buyer?

While certain Colombian banks decline mortgage applications from non-resident foreigners, others will consider them — particularly applicants with a strong credit history, solid financial standing, and a substantial deposit. Banks that do lend to foreign buyers typically require a down payment of 30%–40% of the property’s value, with loan terms of up to 20 years. The majority of overseas purchasers fund transactions with cash or financing arranged in their country of residence.

What is the Certificado de Tradición y Libertad and why is it important?

The Certificado de Tradición y Libertad is the document Colombian courts use to establish property ownership and identify any encumbrances. It provides a complete record of ownership history alongside details of any registered mortgages, liens, or restrictions. Obtaining a fresh copy costs approximately COP 35,900 online (mid-2025), and each certificate remains valid for 30 days. Always request an up-to-date copy immediately before signing any transfer deed.

Do I pay VAT when buying residential property in Colombia?

Residential real estate sales in Colombia are not subject to IVA (VAT). The applicable rate on the property price itself is 0%; IVA may arise on related services such as commercial leasing arrangements, but not on the sale of the property itself.

How do I register my foreign investment with Banco de la República?

If your purchase funds originate outside Colombia, the investment must be registered with Banco de la República. This registration protects your right to repatriate capital and may be a prerequisite for the investor visa. The filing must be made within 12 months of the transaction date. Your lawyer can assist with submitting the appropriate form (historically referred to as “Form 4”) through Banco de la República’s SIC system. Current guidance is available at www.banrep.gov.co.

Can I buy property in Colombia remotely without visiting the country?

Remote purchases are possible provided you execute a power of attorney, which must be apostilled and accompanied by an official Spanish translation. Your nominated attorney can then act on your behalf throughout the entire process, including signing the public deed and completing registration. While legally feasible, most experts advise visiting in person at least once to inspect the property and meet your legal team before finalising any commitment.

Are there any restrictions on renting out my property in Colombia on a short-term basis?

Every property used for short-term tourist rental must be entered in Colombia’s National Tourism Register (Registro Nacional de Turismo, or RNT). Online registration takes approximately five days to be approved and must be renewed each year. All guests staying in short-term rentals must also be recorded in the Tarjeta de Registro de Alojamiento. For condominium units rented for fewer than 30 days at a time, the property’s title deed must explicitly permit short-term rentals. Check the building’s reglamento de propiedad horizontal (by-laws) carefully before marketing any unit as a short-stay rental.