Digital Nomad Visa

What are the essential criteria for obtaining a Digital Nomad Visa?

The Digital Nomad Visa for Colombia is designed for foreign nationals who are employed outside of Colombia and wish to live and work remotely from Colombia. The main requirements for this visa include:

• Minimum Income: Applicants must demonstrate a minimum income of the equivalent of at least three minimum monthly legal salaries in Colombia.
• Employment Status: The visa is available to individuals who are employed by companies outside of Colombia or are engaged in independent work that does not serve the Colombian market directly.
• No Local Employment: Digital Nomad Visa holders are not allowed to engage in remunerated activities within Colombia or work for a Colombian company.
• Business Start-Up: The visa may also be available to those seeking to start a business in Colombia in the digital technology field, aligning with the visa's aim to foster innovation.
• Valid Passport: As with most visas, a valid passport with sufficient validity beyond the visa duration is required.
• Health Insurance: Applicants might need to provide proof of health insurance coverage that is valid in Colombia.
• Application Fee: Payment of the visa application fee is required, with the amount varying based on the applicant's nationality and other factors.

It is important to note that visa requirements can change, and additional documentation may be required based on individual circumstances or updates to immigration policies. For the most current information and detailed guidance on the application process, including specific documentation required, it is advisable to consult the official Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or contact the Colombian consulate or embassy in your country.

What are the necessary steps and the expected duration for the visa?

When applying for a Digital Nomad Visa in Colombia, several steps and factors can influence the overall duration of the application process:

• Preparation of Documents: Before submitting the application, you will need to gather and translate or apostille all required documents, such as proof of income, employment contracts, health insurance, and personal identification. This preparation phase can vary in length depending on how quickly you can obtain and prepare these documents.
• Submission of Application: The application is typically submitted online through the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. The time it takes you to fill out and submit your application can depend on your preparedness and the complexity of your individual case.
• Processing Time: Once submitted, the Colombian immigration authorities can take up to 30 calendar days to resolve the visa application. If additional documentation is requested, this can extend the process by up to 10 additional days from when the additional materials are received.
• Issuance of e-Visa: Upon approval, the issuance of the e-Visa can take up to 10 business days. The visa will be sent electronically, eliminating the need for physical stamps or visits to the consulate for this part of the process.
• Potential Delays: Numerous factors can cause delays in the application process, including high volume of applications, holidays, incomplete or incorrect application submissions, and the need for additional documentation or clarifications regarding your application.
• Personal Factors: Individual circumstances, such as the need to correct or provide additional information, can also affect the timeline. Applicants should be responsive to any requests from the consulate or immigration authorities to avoid unnecessary delays.

Given these steps and potential variables, it is prudent to start the application process well in advance of your planned move to Colombia. Additionally, staying organized and ensuring that all documentation is complete and accurately submitted can help minimize delays.

For the most current guidance and advice, direct consultation with the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or a legal professional specializing in Colombian immigration law is recommended. This ensures that you have the most up-to-date information tailored to your specific situation.

Is it possible to submit an application for the Digital Nomad Visa while outside Colombia?

Yes, you can apply for the Digital Nomad Visa for Colombia from overseas. The Colombian visa application process, including for the Digital Nomad Visa, is designed to allow applicants to submit their applications online through the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. This online application process is accessible from anywhere in the world, provided you have internet access.

Once your application is submitted online, it is reviewed by the Colombian immigration authorities. If your application is approved, you will receive an electronic visa (e-Visa), which means you do not need to visit a Colombian consulate or embassy in person to have a visa sticker or stamp placed in your passport. This makes it convenient for digital nomads and remote workers who may not be in their home country or near a Colombian diplomatic mission when they decide to apply.

It is important to ensure that you meet all the requirements for the Digital Nomad Visa and have all the necessary documentation ready before submitting your application. The requirements include proof of employment or business outside Colombia, sufficient income, and health insurance, among others. Given the digital nature of the process and the e-Visa format, it is designed to be a straightforward process for applicants applying from abroad.

For the most accurate and detailed information on the application process, including any updates or changes, it is advisable to check the official Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or contact the nearest Colombian consulate or embassy.

Applying Online

Applying for a Digital Nomad Visa for Colombia from overseas involves a detailed process that is facilitated by the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs through its online visa application system. Here is a more detailed look at the steps and considerations for applying for this visa from abroad:

Online Application Platform

• Accessibility: The Colombian visa application platform is designed to be accessible from anywhere in the world, making it convenient for applicants living outside of Colombia.
• Website: The official application is made through the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, where you can fill out your application form, upload necessary documents, and pay the visa fee.

Required Documents

• Proof of Employment or Business: You need to provide evidence of your employment or business activities outside of Colombia. This could include a contract, a letter from your employer, or business registration documents if you are self-employed.
• Income Verification: A key requirement is to demonstrate a steady income that meets or exceeds the minimum threshold set by Colombian visa regulations. Bank statements or pay slips can serve as proof.
• Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage that is valid in Colombia is typically required to ensure that you have access to medical care during your stay.
• Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your planned stay in Colombia is necessary. The passport details need to be submitted as part of the application.

Application Review and Processing Time

• Review Process: After submission, your application will be reviewed by Colombian immigration officials. This process involves verifying your documents and ensuring you meet all the visa requirements.
• Processing Time: As mentioned, the processing time can take up to 30 calendar days, with the possibility of additional time if further documentation is requested.

Receiving Your Visa

• Electronic Visa (e-Visa): Upon approval, you will receive your visa electronically. This e-Visa is a convenient format that eliminates the need for physical stamps or stickers in your passport and is in line with modern digital nomad needs.

Considerations for Digital Nomads

• Flexibility: This visa is designed for individuals who work remotely for companies outside of Colombia, providing the flexibility to live in Colombia while continuing their existing employment.
• Legal Obligations: It is important to understand that holding a Digital Nomad Visa does not permit engaging in local employment within Colombia. Your income should be sourced from outside the country.

Application Tips

• Accuracy and Completeness: Ensure all information provided in the application is accurate and that all required documents are complete and clearly legible to avoid delays.
• Stay Informed: Keep abreast of any changes to visa policies or requirements by regularly checking the official Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or contacting a Colombian consulate.

Applying from overseas offers the advantage of planning your relocation to Colombia while ensuring all legal requirements are met. The digital nomad visa opens opportunities for remote workers to experience living in Colombia while maintaining their professional commitments abroad.