Colombia Country Guide
Your Complete Guide to Moving, Living & Working in Colombia
Important: This guide provides essential relocation information for individuals and families moving to Colombia. With a growing economy, modern cities, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes, Colombia has become one of Latin America's top destinations for expatriates. Visa regulations, residency pathways and employment rules may evolve — always verify details with official Colombian government sources.
Home To Home Relocations supports clients relocating to Colombia from Canada and worldwide, providing expert packing, air & ocean shipping, customs support and final delivery to major destinations including Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Barranquilla, Cartagena, Bucaramanga and more.
1. Before You Move to Colombia
1.1 Visa Types & Residency
Colombia offers a clear visa framework, mainly divided into three categories:
- V (Visitor) Visas – tourism, short-term work, business, volunteering
- M (Migrant) Visas – for employment, investment, marriage, retirement, study, residency tracks
- R (Resident) Visas – for long-term residents and qualifying investors
1.2 Working in Colombia
Colombia’s growing economy offers opportunities in:
- IT services, software development and BPO industries
- Banking, fintech and financial services
- Oil, mining and energy
- Education and international schools
- Tourism, hospitality and events
- Healthcare, pharmaceuticals and scientific research
- Manufacturing, logistics and distribution
1.3 Housing & Accommodation
Popular neighbourhoods for expatriates include:
- Bogotá: Chapinero, Usaquén, Rosales, Chico Norte
- Medellín: El Poblado, Laureles, Envigado
- Cali: Ciudad Jardín, Granada
- Cartagena: Bocagrande, Manga
Common rental requirements:
- Security deposit (usually 1–2 months)
- Proof of income or work contract
- Colombian guarantor (fiador) or rental insurance
- Leases typically written in Spanish
1.4 Banking & Finances
Currency: Colombian Peso (COP). To open a bank account as a foreigner, you may need:
- Migrant or Resident Visa
- Cédula de Extranjería (foreign resident ID)
- Proof of address
- Employment or income documentation
1.5 Healthcare & Insurance
Colombia is known for its high-quality healthcare system. Options include:
- EPS (Public Health Insurance) – compulsory for residents
- Private health plans – additional coverage
- Top private hospitals in Bogotá, Medellín and Cali
1.6 Key Documents to Prepare Before Moving
- Passport and visa approval
- Birth & marriage certificates (apostilled)
- Employment offer or income proof
- Academic transcripts and qualifications
- Medical and vaccination records
- International Driving Permit (useful)
2. Your First Weeks in Colombia
2.1 Foreign Resident ID (Cédula de Extranjería)
After arrival, most long-term visa holders must register with Migración Colombia to obtain the Cédula de Extranjería. This is essential for daily transactions.
2.2 Everyday Setup
- Buy a local SIM card (Claro, Movistar, Tigo)
- Open a bank account using your cédula
- Register for EPS or private healthcare
- Finalize rental agreements
- Enroll children in school or bilingual programs
3. Colombia at a Glance
3.1 Geography & Regions
Colombia is incredibly diverse and includes:
- Andean region: Bogotá, Medellín, Cali
- Caribbean region: Cartagena, Santa Marta
- Pacific region: Chocó
- Amazon rainforest: Leticia
- Eastern Plains (Llanos): Vast agricultural lands
3.2 Politics & Economy
Colombia is a presidential republic with a growing economy driven by:
- Oil and mining
- Finance and technology
- Agriculture and coffee exports
- Manufacturing and logistics
- Tourism, especially adventure and cultural travel
3.3 Climate & Weather
Due to its position near the equator, climate depends more on altitude than season:
- Warm: Cartagena, Santa Marta, Cali
- Mild spring-like: Medellín (“City of Eternal Spring”)
- Cooler: Bogotá (high altitude)
4. Why Many Newcomers Choose Colombia
- Modern cities with international lifestyles
- Affordable cost of living
- Warm and welcoming social culture
- Growing digital economy
- Diverse nature — beaches, mountains, rainforest
- High-quality private healthcare
5. Housing, Cost of Living & Daily Life
Colombia offers good value for money compared to North America and Europe. Medellín and Bogotá are modern, cosmopolitan cities with extensive services.
- Rent & utilities
- Groceries and dining (affordable)
- Transportation or fuel
- Healthcare & insurance
- School fees for private or international institutions
6. Transportation & Getting Around
6.1 Public Transport
Major options include:
- Bogotá: TransMilenio bus rapid transit
- Medellín: Metro, cable cars, trams
- Cali: MIO transit system
- Ride-sharing apps: Uber, Didi, Cabify
6.2 Driving in Colombia
Colombia drives on the right-hand side. Foreign licences may be used temporarily, but long-term residents should obtain a Colombian licence.
6.3 Domestic & International Travel
Colombia has excellent domestic connectivity. Major airports include:
- Bogotá – El Dorado International Airport
- Medellín – José María Córdova Airport
- Cali – Alfonso Bonilla Aragón Airport
- Cartagena – Rafael Núñez Airport
7. Culture, Lifestyle & Places to Visit
7.1 Everyday Culture
- Spanish is the national language.
- Colombians are warm, friendly and community-oriented.
- Coffee culture is a major part of daily life.
- Music styles include salsa, vallenato and reggaeton.
- Food varies by region — arepas, bandeja paisa, seafood dishes.
7.2 Popular Cities & Attractions
- Cartagena: Colonial architecture and Caribbean beaches
- Medellín: Innovation, green spaces and views
- Bogotá: Museums, nightlife and cuisine
- Coffee Region: Salento, Manizales — scenic landscapes
- Tayrona National Park: Beaches and rainforest
- San Andrés Islands: Caribbean paradise