Destinations
Colombia
Colombia offers an accessible investor visa — a business route from about 45,000 USD or property from roughly 155,000 USD — and a relatively short path to citizenship, five years or two for many Latin Americans and Spaniards. The honest counterweight: it taxes residents on worldwide income up to 39%, adds a wealth tax, and demands genuine presence of at least 180 days a year.
Key facts
- From
- $45 000≈ $60 075 — estimated total, family of four, fees included
- Processing time
- 1–3 months
- Physical presence
- This is a live-here visa. You must spend at least 180 days a year in Colombia, and the visa lapses automatically if you stay outside the country for more than 180 consecutive days. It is not a passport for someone who will not be present.
Tax at a glance
- Colombia taxes its tax residents on worldwide income — not territorial
- Top personal income tax rate is 39%; corporate is 35%
- A wealth tax applies to residents’ worldwide net worth above a threshold
- Inheritances are taxed as occasional gains, broadly at 15%
- VAT is 19%
Frequently asked questions
Is Colombia a low-tax country for residents?
No. Colombia taxes residents on worldwide income up to 39% and adds a wealth tax on worldwide net worth above a threshold. It is not a territorial base like Panama or Paraguay. Its appeal is cost of living and a short citizenship path, not tax.
How much do I need to invest for the Colombia visa?
Either a business investment of about 45,000 USD (100 times the monthly minimum wage) or real estate of roughly 155,000 USD (350 times the minimum wage). Both figures are pegged to the minimum wage and rise each January.
How much time must I spend in Colombia?
At least 180 days a year. The visa lapses automatically if you stay outside Colombia for more than 180 consecutive days, so it genuinely requires living there.