🇨🇴 Colombia

Colombia restructured its visa system in 2022, creating three categories: Visitor (V), Migrant (M), and Resident (R). The Digital Nomad visa (V - Digital Nomad) is valid for 2 years with work authorization, and is one of the most accessible in Latin America. Migrant visas lead to permanent residency after 5 years of continuous legal stay. The process is managed entirely online through the Cancillería portal.

Foreign workers need a Migrant Work Visa (M - Empleado) sponsored by a Colombian employer. The employer must show the role cannot be filled by a Colombian national and that salary meets minimum thresholds. A self-employed or independent worker visa (M - Independiente) exists for those with contracts or client relationships with Colombian entities. The Digital Nomad visa allows remote work for foreign clients.

Spouses, domestic partners (including same-sex), and children under 25 who are economically dependent can apply for a Migrant Beneficiary visa (M - Beneficiario de Migrante). The visa mirrors the primary holder duration and grants work authorization in most cases. Required documents include certified marriage/birth certificates and proof of primary holder status.

Colombia taxes residents on worldwide income at progressive rates from 0% to 39%, though foreigners are taxed only on Colombian-sourced income for the first 5 years of residence. After 5 years, worldwide income becomes taxable. Colombia has tax treaties with about 15 countries. There is no inheritance tax, and the wealth tax applies only to very high-net-worth individuals.