Digital Nomad Visa (Type V)

Colombia's Digital Nomad Visa, formally classified as a Type V visa under Resolution 5477 issued by the Cancillería (Ministry of Foreign Affairs), was created specifically for foreign nationals who earn income from sources outside of Colombia while residing in the country. Since its introduction, this visa category has attracted thousands of remote workers, freelancers, independent contractors, and online business owners to Colombia — and Medellín has emerged as the single most popular destination for digital nomad visa holders in the country. The visa permits stays of up to two years, with the possibility of renewal, giving holders enough time to establish a meaningful life in Colombia without the restrictions that come with short-term tourist entries. Unlike a tourist stamp, the digital nomad visa provides a legal immigration status that allows you to obtain a cédula de extranjería (foreign ID card), open Colombian bank accounts, sign long-term lease agreements, and access services that are otherwise unavailable to visitors on tourist entries.

The application process involves several steps that must be completed with precision. The Cancillería requires applicants to demonstrate a minimum monthly income threshold — a figure that is recalculated annually based on Colombia's minimum legal monthly wage (SMLMV) and has changed every year since the visa's creation. Applicants must also provide proof of international health insurance with coverage valid in Colombia, a letter from their employer or evidence of their freelance or business activity, and several other supporting documents that must meet specific formatting, authentication, and apostille requirements depending on the country of origin. In 2026, the Cancillería has implemented stricter verification procedures for digital nomad visa applications, including more rigorous review of income documentation and employment relationships. A single error in document preparation — an expired apostille, an incorrectly notarized letter, or a bank statement that does not meet formatting requirements — can result in outright denial and the loss of your application fee, which is non-refundable.

This is precisely why working with an experienced immigration lawyer in Medellín is not optional — it is essential. At Legal Diligence Medellín, our attorneys have processed hundreds of digital nomad visa applications and maintain direct knowledge of current Cancillería requirements, processing times, and common grounds for denial. We prepare your complete application package, verify every document against current standards, and ensure your submission is bulletproof before it reaches a visa officer. We also advise on the strategic aspects of your immigration pathway — including how to transition from a digital nomad visa to a Migrant (Type M) visa if you meet independent eligibility requirements such as investment, employment, or marriage. If you are considering making Medellín your base, schedule a consultation with our team to understand exactly what your application will require under the current 2026 regulations.