How to Get Permanent Residency in Colombia: A Guide for Digital Nomads
Enjoying Affordable Living in Medellin, Colombia's Top Destination for Remote Workers






Colombia is a country with a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and a booming economy. It's no wonder that more and more digital nomads are considering making this country their new home. If you're one of those people, you might be wondering how to get permanent residency in Colombia and why you should do so. In this article, we'll explore the process of obtaining permanent residency in Colombia, the benefits of doing so, and why Medellin is the perfect location for digital nomads.
Obtaining Permanent Residency in Colombia
The process of obtaining permanent residency in Colombia is relatively straightforward, although it can be time-consuming. First, you must obtain a visa that allows you to stay in the country for more than 180 days. The most common visa options for digital nomads are the TP-7 (temporary visa) and the M (business visa). You can apply for these visas at your local Colombian consulate.
Once you have obtained a visa, you must then live in Colombia for at least five years to qualify for permanent residency. During this time, you must also comply with all Colombian laws and pay your taxes. After five years, you can apply for permanent residency, which will allow you to stay in Colombia indefinitely.
Benefits of Permanent Residency in Colombia
There are many benefits to obtaining permanent residency in Colombia. First and foremost, it will give you the freedom to live and work in the country without having to worry about visa restrictions. You will also be able to access all the benefits that Colombian citizens enjoy, including healthcare, education, and social security.
Additionally, permanent residency in Colombia can lead to citizenship, which will allow you to vote and participate fully in Colombian society. It also provides a level of security and stability that is essential for digital nomads who are constantly on the move.
Living Cheaply in Colombia
One of the biggest advantages of living in Colombia as a foreigner is the low cost of living. The country's favorable exchange rate means that foreigners can live very comfortably on a modest income. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in the center of Medellin can cost as little as $300 per month. Food, transportation, and entertainment are also very affordable, making it easy to live well on a tight budget.
The low cost of living in Colombia is especially appealing to digital nomads, who often work remotely and earn in dollars or other strong currencies. This means that they can enjoy a high quality of life while spending far less than they would in their home countries.
Medellin: The Perfect Location for Digital Nomads
Medellin, Colombia's second-largest city, has become a hub for digital nomads in recent years. The city has a thriving startup scene, excellent infrastructure, and a high quality of life. It also boasts a mild climate and stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal place to work and play.
One of the biggest draws of Medellin for digital nomads is its affordable cost of living. As we mentioned earlier, it's possible to live very comfortably in Medellin for a fraction of the cost of living in other major cities around the world. This means that digital nomads can save money while still enjoying all the benefits of living in a vibrant, cosmopolitan city.
Conclusion
Obtaining permanent residency in Colombia is a great option for digital nomads who want to enjoy a high quality of life while living and working abroad. The process is relatively straightforward, and the benefits are numerous. Living in Colombia is also very affordable, especially for foreigners earning in strong currencies like the dollar. Finally, Medellin is an ideal location for digital nomads, with its affordable cost of living, excellent infrastructure, and vibrant startup scene.