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Colombia's Retirement Visa: Costs, Requirements, & Common Questions
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 1 มี.ค. 2023
- FREE RETIREMENT VISA CHEAT SHEET DOWNLOAD 👉🏼 mailchi.mp/a6e56ff0873e/retir...
In this video we’re going to talk about Colombia’s Retirement Visa, its requirements, costs, who qualifies, things to know and common questions. Considering this visa is one of the most popular visas that expats apply for, I knew I had to make this video as one of the first visa videos added to the channel. The requirements are very simple to obtain and the visa process is straightforward. Nevertheless, there are many important details that need to be in place in order to obtain the visa, so I highly recommend applying for it through a lawyer. If you need this assistance, I can help facilitate this for you with my team of lawyers that work beside me in my relocation services. Just email me at hola@moveandinvestmedellin.com!
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Link to make notary appointment at the US Embassy in Bogota or the U.S. Consular Agency in Barranquilla: co.usembassy.gov/ services/notarials/?_ga=2.63314088.645209643.1669316798-874557805.1669316798
TAX INFO:
According to Colombian law, an individual is considered a tax resident if:
- They have stayed in the country (continuously or not) for more than 183 days (taking into account entry and exit dates) within a period of 365 consecutive days. If the 183-day period covers two different calendar years, the individual would be considered a Colombian taxpayer for the second year.
Here, the days count even from the day you arrived in the country and the day you left, and important to say, it doesn't matter on which month you arrived, it will be counted on a period of exactly 365 days, even for different years. BUT it's important to note that not every tax resident is required to
report income, AND that to present an income tax declaration doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to pay income tax in Colombia.
Natural persons that are required to declare the 2023 income tax are those whose:
💰 Gross equity at the end of the 2021 fiscal year is equal to or greater than $163’386.000 COP.
💰 Income of the taxable year is either $50’831.000 COP or equal to it.
💰 Credit card payments accounted for a total amount of more than $50’831,000 COP.
💰 Total value of purchases and consumption is equal to or more than $50’831.000 COP.
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Concise; great info! Thanks, Lauren!
I'm happy to help!
Thank you Lauren.
Very informative and useful video. I'm planning on moving there next year and retire.
Absolutely a great video, really good info and straight to the point and clear. I will be contacting you shortly for assistants.
Glad to hear it helped!
Hola Lauren, thank you for this detailed information.
Great info, thanks for sharing, you are the best!!!
Happy to help, thanks for watching!
Thank you. Can you please do a video on colombias cost of living, rent, food, car, transportation, entertainment, etc. Thank you
The amount of income required to qualify for the visa and the amount required to live in Medellin are two ENTIRELY DIFFERENT THINGS! Yes, you can live in poverty in Medellin (instead of your home country) but rents in Medellin have almost tripled in the past few years. Please visit for a couple of weeks and shop for rent before you commit.
good video
I'll be retiring from a private company. They said they cam provide the pension verification letter. So I just need to have it signed by whoever prepares it and have it appossilized?
Also can I buy the international health insurance in Colombia or should I buy it here?
Awesome
Thank you Lauren, excelent video and information. I am a US military retiree and have health insurance throught TRICARE. At 65 I I will sign up with Medicare and TRICARE will be my secondary. Once I am in Colombia, Medicare is not valid and TRICARE becomes my primary. What would I need from TRICARE to suffice the insurance requirement? Can I apply for the retirement visa while visiting as a tourist for 90 days? Thank you again and best regards.
Once I receive the visa, what is the next step? Do I need to quickly head to Colombia, or do I have a certain amount of time.
I’m glad I came across your video. I’ve been married to a Colombian national for 40 plus years here in the states. My wife is also an American citizen. Both of us recently retire and own an apartment in Rionegro. What’s the best process to apply for a visa to obtain a cedula?
Big potentially huge problem after jumping through all the hoops to gain a CO visa is them double taxing you. Find a country (Ecuador?, Panama, Europe, MEX) that at least has reciprocity agreement with U.S. Those countries all I believe can double tax you however do account for U.S. taxes paid first, CO does not!
And if you are a disabled Vet like me CO would want to tax your non-taxable in U.S. VA pension. F that!
Really? They TAX your Social as well? I never heard of something like this before.
The best video I have watched by far on the topic. One question, I will have a private pension from my job that will more than meet the monthly requirements. Is that pension acceptable, or does it have to be a government pension?
The law says it can be "directly from the government, a privately or publicly held company, a foreign entity, or a diplomatic or consular mission from the country you’re receiving payments from."
You said it’s easier to file there in Colombia, what about if you’re getting a state pension. Mine is coming from the county government. I don’t think I’ll be able to find that in Bogotá.
You mention it may be easier to apply from Colombia, do that not need the same information like a background criminal Check, mental health check, etc… how would you provide that information applying there?
Houston also has a Colombian consulate.
It's my understanding that pension holders are not allowed to continue with EPS insurance past the issuance of the new visa. You've indicated otherwise.
How strict is immigration on the criminal background checks?
what are the age requirements for a retirement visa?. Does social security count as a pension or is SS and "pension" 2 different things?
I see the new M-11 visa law says "no permite trabajar en territorio nacional". Does this mean (as Spain's law does) that no activity that brings in money from any source whatsoever is permitted while in the country? Or, does it mean (as Argentina's law does) that you cannot become an employee in Colombia, but are welcome to work for an offshore company, or to be a freelancer, or even to start a business? Or something in between? (Or maybe it's such a new law that noone is sure how it will be applied?) Many retirees wish to pursue a small (or not small) business in retirement, even though the have an adequate pension.
What documents are required for marriage visa?
Please relax and put your hands down.
I am not retired but just like to see your smiles.. hope you have a nice young man by your side.. !
Thanks for the video. Do you know what the cost would be for the temporary insurance while waiting for the cedula?
No I do not know. Health insurance costs vary depending on your income and plan type.
Think ~80 USD MONTH for insurance.
@@laurenlagringa Thanks
@@sudowpa2 Thanks
Excuse me if I'm not understanding correctly. If I have social security of $1800/month I may qualify to live in Colombia. However as a 71 year old retiree I would need to have a global health insurance policy which averages about $700/month. Am I missing something in thinking this is not a bargain for me.
Me, a veteran with PTSD - So, I'm in the same category as a psycopath and baby killer?
*wow*
Seriously… wtf this chick sucks for saying that.
Marry a Colombian. They don't do background checks on marriage visas. That's of this year 2023. It may change with all the crazy changes Colombia is doing.
I'm pretty sure it's individual based... everyone's PTSD is not the same
How about cower insulin for diabetics in Colombia?
Hiiiii, how long does it take to get a pensionado visa if a person applies for it in Bogota? Can the application be done from Medellin?
You can get it done in Medellín without having to go to Bogota. Depending on whether you're working with a lawyer or not you're looking at a minimum of 4-6 weeks I'd say.
❤❤❤
I am 66 and want to retire in Columbia and bring my 95 yet r old mother but there is no travel insurance that covers a 95 year old. So my question what are the age requirements. ..from 65 years of age to ???. What is the cut off or is it a small window OF AGE FOR RETIREEES!? . Because obviously no insurence for people 95, 100 , 105 etc/ They have medicare but does that apply ? I would think it does cover for any medical in another country or nobody could travel ever.
For the minimum amount from Social Security each month that you have to provide documentation for, if you are married, is the amount that you have to show $1438 / month ($719 x 2) since there are two of you trying to retire in Colombia?
It doesn't matter if you are married. You would just have to show that amount for one person. The other person could potentially apply for a beneficiary visa if they are a spouse or economically dependent on you.
I've never once heard that it is easier to get a Retirement Visa in Colombia. And my personal experience has been everything but easy. I plan to give it a try in the U.S.
Hello Lauren. Thank u for this Video. I'm a retired Swiss. I'm sorry but i did not clearly understand about the income taxes. I get about 155'000.000 COP State Pension now. So, that would be less then the 163'386.000 COP and i don't have to pay income taxes, right ? I may need U for the Visa stuff if i decide to come back to Colombia. Now i live in Thailand but i have enough from all the chaos and bad air here. Thanks in advance for your answer... Take care.
If you spend more than 183 days in the country (which means you hold a visa) you are considered a tax resident. But being a tax resident in Colombia does not automatically mean you are required to report your income. And just because you declare doesn't mean you have to pay. There are thresholds that change with each calendar year based on your gross equity at the end of the fiscal year, total value of purchases and consumption, income of the taxable year, or credit card payments accounted for a total amount. What goes into it would be how much money you earn (financial gain), what you possess (resources), how much you owe (debts), and how much you generally spend (consumption expenditures). Hope that helps but if you need an accountant or lawyer I suggest finding one - I'm just a relocation specialist. :)
Why would they make a retiree wait 5 years for permanent residency if a person is already in their 60s?? How is Colombia a better choice than say, Mexico??
Colombia is cheaper
@dilmerfandino No it's not. I've been to both. Homes are about the same prices except for Southern Mexico and Monterrey. Food is just a bit cheaper in Colombia except for certain areas like the malls or nice restaurants.
Lauren, how would you compare Medellin with Cali in terms of a retirement life, including climate, infrastructure and air pollution??
wait so if a veteran is suffering from PTSD he / she can't come?
I'm currently in country found a good lawyer, as long as your treatment is documented with The VA and your background is good, you are good.
Thank you! You're lovely, fun and generous. I live in Oregon and I WANT to move to Columbia!! I only have $1,029 per month social security. Is that enough? Unfortunately - maybe not enough for Medellin.
It's enough
Colombia
Is there an age requirement for the retirement visa?
On the Colombian side no. But you cannot access social security until a certain age of course, I'm sure of that.
If a person is financially qualified for BOTH a rentista visa and a retirement visa (based on Social Security etc.), which has better benefits for someone or a couple over 65?
Retirement visa hands down. The rentista visa is not a migrant visa and therefore there is no path to residency with it. The retirement visa needs to be held for a titila of 5 years but after that you can apply for residency which is 5-10 years.
@@laurenlagringa What is a rentista visa to live the rest of one's life (or at least less than 2 cumulative years worth) in Colombia if not a form of residency? And why must a person have a relatively low amount of pension to qualify for the visa instead of investments? What are the current exact requirements for the rentista?
How to obtain a medical certificate
Just go to your doctor and ask them for an official document and make sure their proper licensing information is there as well. The medical certificate must state that you have good physical and mental health (ie no PTSD, reoccurring physical ailments, etc.)
I am a Canadian. I want to semi retire in Columbia. My own investments pay about double the requirements in dividends. I wonder if they would accept that as proof of income?
You might be looking at a RENTISTA VISA then! This visa is for those who earn an income through interest or dividends like you. 😅
@@laurenlagringa thanks. I will look into that.
i am retired. my social security income is $1400.00? month.... I have about ...$450,000 in my bank accounts...can i retire in Columbia., S America?
From just the information you provided here, yes. It doesn't matter how much money you have in the bank. What matters is that you make the minimum monthly requirement, that you are physically and mentally healthy, and have no criminal history. Those are going to be the three biggest things.
Is there still a problem for military veterans that are combat vets?
It doesn't matter if you were a veteran or combat vet. If you are diagnosed with PTSD, Colombian Foreign Ministry has reason to deny your retirement visa application since a certificate of medical health is required.
Yes, same boat!! 😅
What if I’m in the same boat I get 3600 per month but I’m 23 years old can I still get that? I can’t work anymore
@@devildog3799 don’t forget if you have 100% you can also get social security disability tax free so basically 7200 per month tax free rest of life
@@Manuelslife618Really? I am 100% disabled, veteran, permanent, and total. I haven’t worked in years but would I still qualify for the max Social Security amount?
can you say more about citizenship? My country recently allowed dual citizenship...
Colombia does allow for dual citizenship but I am not a lawyer and I don't know if that means for any other country in the world. You also need to look at the other side, whether your country will accept a dual citizenship with Colombia.
@@laurenlagringa, yes I know that. I'd like to know about becoming becoming a citizen, but I guess I'm just lazy, can find it out myself.
BTW I'm in Cali, have been for almost 12 years.
@@yngvesognen1092 Colombian citizenship happens after holding residency for at least 5 years, I know that. There are other ways to obtain Colombian citizenship such as by having a Colombian parent, but I don't know your specific situation.
@@laurenlagringa, have been here almost 12 years, so thanks for that, relevant for me. I'm from Norway.
You better check on their residency tax laws. You are likely in for a shock as to how much they would expect in income taxes. They tax all global income including social security. They have a 3% wealth tax on all funds you have, and have already paid taxes on.
This is the biggest drawback to living in Colombia. I have lived in Colombia for many years and each year is different, but it averages about $100/month, which is more than I pay in the US. It is frustrating but I look at it as a cheap price to pay compared to what it would cost me if I lived in the states.
It is my understanding that in 2023, foreign social will be tax exempt.
What is the most the fine can be if a person stays for 2 years or longer without a visa. It’s terrible how they only give 6 months. I’m assuming that’s a way to keep the population from overcrowding. Thanks for the info
A six month tourist visa is pretty standard for most countries. And to answer your question, I have no idea because that is entirely at the discretion of the Foreign Ministry. I do NOT recommend overstaying your visa in any country, because since it is at their discretion they can also deport you and/or ban you from entering again along with a fine.
Thousands. Two MONTHS is 1100.
I read the max can only be 1500$ and you don’t need to pay it on the spot you can pay it if and when you return. The truth is with how complicated this visa process has become Colombia is looking less and less desirable. Who in there right might buy a property in a country where drastic changes can happen over night. Many people are saying this colombia ln President doesn’t like foreigners to much.
@@ohno-zx4if Those people would be misinformed. Also drastic changes don't happen overnight anywhere and Colombia's no different. The "secret" is out about Colombia prompting foreigners from all over the world to take advantage of its low entry costs, low costs of living, beautiful people and culture, and perfect weather in Medellín. 'How complicated this visa process has become'... which visa? Each one is a different process with different requirements. Also there is no max on what Foreign Ministry can charge you for overstaying your visa precisely because the law does not say anything on the matter. It is completely at their discretion and, again, I highly advise against doing this.
Does the US embassy in Bogota still issue the SS benefits verification letter? I am 64 years old, what would be the average cost of health insurance? I understand that I will not longer be able to apply for the EPS health insurance in Colombia, am interpreting the law correctly?
Thank you Lauren! Great info. I will visit soon and will get in touch with you about the retirement visa. I am from the US. I am 71 but in perfect shape according to my doctor and I feel great. Is my age an issue?
Please let me know.
Thnx
Nope! Age is not an issue when applying for this visa.
Lauren, why do these countries make it harder for retirees who have enough money in the bank regardless of having an actual pension? By the way, the word is apostille, not apostle....do birth and marriage certificates need an actual apostille, or is a notary sufficient?
Is there an age requirement for the Colombia M 11 Visa ???
On the Colombian side no. But you cannot access social security until a certain age of course, I'm sure of that.
@@laurenlagringa im receiving social security disability insurance 2011 and I’m only 62 now
I asked because I read that retirement in Colombia requires 65 years old for men other than income requirements
@@albertomelendez9848 where did you read this?
@@laurenlagringa I read online that for men they have to be 65 or older
Shouldn't you be 65 years old?
So for a couple we could get everything done for a couple grand, right ?
Yeah to me that sounds about right, probably even less.
Are you available? Culmination
Confused by your comment...
Hello. I listened to your video. I am Quebecer my mother tongue is FRENCH. I speak some English. The problem is that you speak so fast that we don't have time to translate what you say. Either you make the SAME EXPLANATORY VIDEO in French, or at least put French subtitles. I want to move to Colombia and maybe even half married and end my days.
Click on the title above, then on the transcript button in the drop down.
You can go to settings and determine the speed playback
Wait... so if you have poor health or ptsd / mental health, even if maintained ND paid for with your insurance you cannot retire in Columbia?
If that's true, there are more countries in the world 🌎
Why are you talking so fast? did you have a time limit on making this video? I had to reverse so many times just to figure out what you were saying clearly, and I speak English! Please slow down, this is important info for many people.
Sorry that's my experienced TH-camr presenter in me 😂 Every second of watch time counts when you do TH-cam so it's a thing I do naturally I guess but thanks for making note of it, I'll try to slow down considering my audience! 🙏🏻
Colombia TAXES your pension, regardless of level.
I heard the same thing. I brought this up to a few expats I met when I was in Medellin earlier this year. They did not know what I was talking about. But I’m not saying it’s not true.
Did you really just group veterans with PTSD in the same bucket as psychopaths and baby killers?
I spoke with a lawyer just yesterday here in Cartagena. She tells me that if your treatment for PTSD is documented in your records and you have a clean background it will take a few weeks longer for approval however it will be approved. Bonus if you have CBT therapy in your records.
Lumping veterans suffering from PTSD with psychopaths and baby killers?... why?
Hyperbole is used in comedy sometimes, but I guess you didn't get that. This was meant in a joking manner and it is funny precisely because it is not true.
lo que digas @@laurenlagringa