Your life in Colombia starts here
Make your move to Colombia
Spring-like weather in cities such as Medellín, very low costs and very affordable property make Colombia tempting. A dedicated retirement route opens a warm and welcoming base.
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Photo: Mariya Muschard / Pexels
At a glance
Colombia, in brief.
How Colombia compares with the 80+ destinations we cover. Colombia ranks among the best for visa ease (3rd of 81) and cost of living (10th of 77) and property affordability (19th of 75).
Compare destinations- Cost of living
- Very low
- Property
- Very affordable
- Healthcare
- Basic
- Safety
- Higher risk
- Climate
- Mild (~17°C)
- English
- Limited
- Expat community
- Moderate
Pensionado ~$1,400/mo, fast e-visa, dual
Worldwide, 39% top, no US treaty, wealth tax
Life in Colombia
David Hunter Bishop, born 1951 in Camden, New Jersey. I was raised in a working-class community on the Delaware River in Southern New Jersey, attended the United States…
Health insurance in Colombia
Covered from day one.
The dream is the easy part. Compare tailored expat health insurance quotes from trusted international insurers, in minutes and with no obligation.
Get health insurance quotes In partnership with Moving your belongings too? Get up to five free quotes from international moversSending money abroad? Compare money transfer rates
Your move plan
Colombia, one step at a time.
Thirteen steps, in the order most people tackle them. Each one links to the guide that walks you through it.
- 01Check which visa fits your moveRead the guide : Check which visa fits your move
- 02Work out your monthly budgetRead the guide : Work out your monthly budget
- 03Arrange health cover for your moveRead the guide : Arrange health cover for your move
- 04Understand how the health system worksRead the guide : Understand how the health system works
- 05Bring your pet, if you have oneRead the guide : Bring your pet, if you have one
- 06Find somewhere to rentRead the guide : Find somewhere to rent
- 07Open a local bank accountRead the guide : Open a local bank account
- 08Know your residency steps after you arriveRead the guide : Know your residency steps after you arrive
- 09Find a doctorRead the guide : Find a doctor
- 10Understand your tax positionRead the guide : Understand your tax position
- 11Sort out your driving licenceRead the guide : Sort out your driving licence
- 12Set up a phone and internetRead the guide : Set up a phone and internet
- 13Plan schools, if you're moving with childrenRead the guide : Plan schools, if you're moving with children
Plan your move
Answers for your move.
Free tools that turn big questions about Colombia into clear answers.
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- Compare cost of livingWhat your money is worth in Colombia.01
- Check retirement affordabilityWhere your pension clears the requirement.02
- Find visa optionsEvery route you could qualify for.03
- Get moving quotesUp to five free quotes from international movers.04
- Compare money transfer ratesFor large international transfers.05
The complete picture
The Colombia moving guide.
54 guides, from your visa to finding a vet. Start with the three most people need first.
Moving guide sponsored by- Start here · 01
Visas
Which visa fits your move, and how to apply.
- Start here · 02
Residency
Your residence permit, from first stay to long term.
- Start here · 03
Banking
Opening an account and moving money.
Visas, residency and work
6
Healthcare
7
Buying property
5
Health and wellbeing
8
Travel and transport
5
Driving and cars
5
Health cover designed for life in Colombia
Whether you're relocating with your family, taking up a new role or retiring abroad, Cigna Global plans are built around expat life: worldwide cover, direct billing and 24/7 support in English.
You won't be the first
Real people who made the move.
People who built a life in Colombia share what surprised them, what helped and what they'd do again. All Colombia stories
- Medellín
Courtenay Strickland
My name is Courtenay Strickland, and I'm a writer and mom, among other roles. I'm originally from a small town outside Atlanta.…
- Bogota
Jade Longelin
I'm a world citizen specialized in digital marketing with a keen eye for analyzing and comparing cultural differences. Where, when and why…
- Bogotá
Richard McColl
I am Richard McColl, an Anglo Canadian freelance journalist and hotelier living in Colombia. I host a weekly podcast called Colombia Calling…
Fresh from Colombia
Latest articles.
A New Life in Colombia: How Expats Can Successfully Apply for Migrant Visas
Colombia has emerged as a preferred destination for many expats due to its vibrant culture, affordable living, and beautiful landscapes. If you're considering a…
How To Open A Bank Account In Colombia
Renowned for its world-class beaches and friendly locals, there are few countries more appealing to sun-seeking expats than Colombia. Miles of Caribbean coastline, coupled…
How To Rent Or Buy Property In Colombia
Columbia's friendly locals, beautiful Caribbean coastlines and relaxed way of life have made it an attractive expat destination in recent years. The country has…
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