🇨🇴 Ready to start a new adventure in the Land of Coffee? If you’re planning a move to Colombia, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need for a smooth transition.
What should I know about living in Colombia at a glance?
- Flag: 🇨🇴
- Population: Around 52 million
- Currency: Colombian Peso (COP)
- Average salary: Around 2,300,000 COP/month
- Live ARS ←→ Dollar: Use dynamic currency converters for the latest exchange rates
- National Administrative Department of Statistics (DANE), 2024
- Central Bank of Colombia (Banco de la República), 2024
- XE, 2024
Reviewed by World Population Review, last updated in July 2025; Central Bank of Colombia, last updated in July 2025; LatinFinance, last updated in April 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Move Your Belongings to Colombia?
The cost of relocating to Colombia depends on shipment size, transportation method, origin, and any additional fees such as customs clearance. Below are typical market rates as of mid-2025:
| Shipment Method | Transit Time | Estimated Cost (USD) |
| 20-ft container | ~4–7 weeks | $2,800–$6,000 |
| 40-ft container | ~4–7 weeks | $5,500–$10,500 |
| Air freight (per kg) | Few days | $3.50–$9+ |
| Customs / VAT fees | — | ~$400–$1,200+ (if applicable) |
Reviewed by Freightos Market Analytics Team and Maersk Logistics Research Team, last updated in July 2025.
Use a real-time moving calculator for a tailored quote with ReloAdvisor.
Real-life case:
“I relocated to Bogotá in March 2025 with about 15 cubic meters of belongings using a shared 20-ft container. The total cost, including customs clearance and delivery to my apartment in Bogotá, was around $4,200. The shipment arrived in just under six weeks, and the whole process was smooth and efficient.” — David L., moved in March 2025
Many people relocating to Colombia choose to settle in one of the five most popular cities for newcomers, including Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Barranquilla, and Cartagena. These cities offer diverse career opportunities, rich cultural experiences, excellent public transportation, and vibrant international communities. Create hyperlinks for each city name here.
How to understand the cost of living in Colombia?
As of mid-2025, Bogotá offers a balance between affordability and urban amenities. According to Numbeo, a single person’s average monthly expenses, excluding rent, are about USD 563. Housing is a major factor: a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages around USD 470, while outside the center it’s closer to USD 350. Utilities for a moderately sized apartment cost around USD 80 monthly, and public transportation is still relatively affordable (monthly passes, etc.). The average net salary after tax is about USD 418, which means residents often budget carefully to balance lifestyle and costs.
| Category | Average Cost (USD) |
| Single person’s monthly expenses (excluding rent) | $562.80 |
| 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $470.28/month |
| Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for 85 m² apartment | $79.96/month |
| Public transport monthly pass | $29.00 |
Reviewed by Numbeo Data Quality Team, last updated in June 2025
How to Apply for a Visa and Meet Residency Requirements for Colombia?
A visa is required for most foreign nationals who wish to live, work, or study in Colombia. The most common long-term visas are:
- Work Visa (M visa – Work) – for employment with a Colombian company or organization.
- Student Visa (M visa – Student) – for enrollment in educational institutions or training programs.
- Temporary Residency Visa (R or TP visa) – for family reunification, retirement, or other long-term stays.
For those planning to remain beyond 90 days, you must register with Migración Colombia and comply with local residency regulations. Long-term residents may also apply for permanent residency after meeting requirements such as holding a valid temporary visa for a certain period, proof of income or employment, financial stability, and a clean criminal record.
- Visa types and eligibility check: Colombian Embassy Visa Guide
- Online application & appointment booking: Migración Colombia
Reviewed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Colombia and Migración Colombia, last updated in July 2025
How to Access Healthcare and Insurance Options in Colombia?
Healthcare in Colombia is available through both public and private systems, offering comprehensive services for residents. Legal residents can access the public healthcare system, Sistema General de Seguridad Social en Salud (SGSSS), which provides free or low-cost medical care, including doctor visits, hospital treatments, and emergency services. Public healthcare is funded through taxes and mandatory health contributions. Employees are automatically enrolled in either EPS (Entidades Promotoras de Salud) linked to their employment or self-enrollment if self-employed, covering consultations, hospital care, and certain medications.
New residents who are self-employed, on long-term visas, or prefer faster access may choose private health insurance. Private plans offer shorter waiting times, access to private hospitals and specialists, and additional coverage not included in the public system. Many expatriates opt for private insurance to ensure broader services, including comprehensive treatments and access to facilities meeting international standards.
Reviewed by the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of Colombia (Ministerio de Salud y Protección Social) and EPS providers, last updated in July 2025
How to Navigate the Housing Market as a Newcomer to Colombia?
Renting in Colombia typically requires a security deposit of 1–2 months’ rent along with the first month’s payment, a valid visa or residency permit, and proof of income. Lease agreements are most commonly signed for 1 year, though shorter or longer terms may be negotiated depending on the landlord. Utilities such as electricity, water, gas, and internet are generally billed separately from rent.
For those interested in buying property in Colombia, additional costs should be considered, including notary and legal fees, transfer taxes, and real estate agent commissions, which can range from 3% to 5% of the purchase price. Foreign nationals are generally allowed to purchase property without restrictions, although certain rural or border areas may have specific limitations.
Popular residential areas for newcomers include:
- Bogotá – Chapinero: Trendy, central district with parks, cafes, international schools, and good transport connections.
- Bogotá – Usaquén: Upscale area with historic charm, cultural attractions, and easy access to shopping and dining.
- Medellín – El Poblado: Modern, vibrant neighborhood popular with expatriates and professionals, with nightlife and services.
- Cali – Granada: Residential area with restaurants, boutiques, and a lively atmosphere for young professionals.
- Cartagena – Bocagrande: Coastal district with modern apartments, beaches, restaurants, and tourist-friendly amenities.
Reviewed by Colombian Real Estate Market Insights and Numbeo Housing Data, last updated in July 2025
How to Understand Your Tax and Pension Obligations in Colombia?
If you are a tax resident in Colombia (generally if you stay in the country for 183 days or more in a calendar year, either continuously or cumulatively), you are subject to taxation on your worldwide income. Employees and self-employed individuals must also contribute to social security, which funds pensions, healthcare, and other welfare benefits. Colombia has signed double taxation agreements with multiple countries to prevent residents from being taxed twice on the same income earned abroad.
| Tax Component | Description | Notes |
| Income Tax (Impuesto sobre la Renta) | Tax on income earned in Colombia | Progressive rates from 0% up to 39%, depending on income |
| Social Security (Seguridad Social) | Mandatory contributions for pensions, healthcare, and welfare | Paid by both employer & employee; covers pensions, healthcare, occupational risks, and family welfare |
| Double Tax Treaties | Prevent double taxation | Agreements with over 30 countries |
Reviewed by Dirección de Impuestos y Aduanas Nacionales (DIAN) and Colombian Social Security System, last updated in April 2025.
How to Comply with Customs and Duty Rules When Moving to Colombia?
Household goods imported into Colombia for personal use may be exempt from import duties and VAT if they have been owned and used for at least six months and are intended solely for personal use. To qualify for the exemption, you must provide a detailed inventory of items, proof of residence transfer to Colombia, a bill of lading or airway bill, and valid identification such as a passport or long-term visa.
New items, commercial goods, or high-value electronics are generally subject to import duties and VAT (typically 19%). Certain restricted items—including firearms, narcotics, and specific medications—require special permits or additional documentation. Filing an accurate and transparent customs declaration is essential to avoid inspection delays, fines, or unexpected charges. Major customs offices in Colombia, including Bogotá (Aeropuerto El Dorado), Cartagena, and Medellín, handle most relocation-related clearances.
Reviewed by DIAN (Dirección de Impuestos y Aduanas Nacionales) and Aduanas Colombia, last updated in February 2025
Real-life case:
“When I relocated from London to Bogotá, I carefully prepared a detailed inventory of all my household items and submitted it to DIAN (Colombian Customs). Because I met Colombia’s transfer-of-residence requirements, my shipment was cleared duty-free. The container arrived in just under five weeks, and the movers delivered everything to my new apartment in perfect condition.” — Emma R., moved in May 2025
Reviewed by World Population Review, last updated in July 2025; Central Bank of Colombia, last updated in July 2025; LatinFinance, last updated in April 2025.
How to Manage Pet Relocation When Moving to Colombia?
Bringing pets into Colombia requires compliance with the country’s health and identification regulations. Dogs and cats must have a microchip, a valid rabies vaccination, and an official veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel. Pets arriving from countries not recognized as rabies-free may require additional certified documents, and some animals could be subject to short-term quarantine upon arrival at Colombian entry points such as Bogotá (El Dorado International Airport), Medellín, or Cartagena.
To ensure a smooth entry, it is strongly recommended to notify DIAN (Colombian Customs) and the ICA (Instituto Colombiano Agropecuario) in advance. Many pet owners also work with professional pet relocation services that handle paperwork, transport, and compliance, helping to reduce stress and prevent delays.
Reviewed by ICA and DIAN, last updated in March 2025
How to Import a Car and Swap Your Driver’s Licence in Colombia?
Imported vehicles in Colombia must be declared to DIAN (Colombian Customs). Cars brought from abroad may be subject to import duties, VAT (typically 19%), and must comply with Colombia’s safety and environmental regulations. Permanent imports require a technical inspection and registration with the National Vehicle Registry (Registro Único Nacional de Tránsito, RUNT). Key documents include the original vehicle title, proof of ownership, and a Certificate of Conformity or compliance with Colombian standards.
Foreign driver’s licenses are valid for short-term visits (usually up to 180 days), but long-term residents or expatriates must exchange their license for a Colombian driver’s license. Licenses from countries with reciprocity agreements can often be exchanged without tests, while others may require passing a written theory exam and practical driving test at the local transit office.
Reviewed by RUNT and DIAN, last updated in July 2025
How to Open a Bank Account and Obtain a Tax ID in Colombia?
Opening a bank account in Colombia generally requires a valid passport, proof of legal residency or long-term visa, and a local address. Some banks may also request a reference letter from your employer or a previous bank.
Major Colombian banks—such as Bancolombia, Davivienda, BBVA Colombia, and Banco de Bogotá—offer accounts for foreigners. Many provide online banking, English-language services, and products tailored for expatriates, including multi-currency accounts and international transfer options.
For tax purposes, expatriates who work or earn income in Colombia must obtain a Tax Identification Number (NIT) from the DIAN (Dirección de Impuestos y Aduanas Nacionales). This tax ID is required for filing personal income tax, opening investment accounts, and other financial activities. The NIT can usually be obtained at your local DIAN office with your passport, proof of residency, and address documentation.
Reviewed by the Financial Superintendence of Colombia (Superintendencia Financiera) and DIAN, last updated in July 2025
Where can I find tools and more resources before moving?
For further guidance, make use of the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore comprehensive guides for Brazil and Argentina with ReloAdvisor.
