What Are the Income Requirements for Colombia's Digital Nomad Visa?
2025-07-22
If you're dreaming of working remotely from the vibrant streets of Medellín, the beaches of Cartagena, or the coffee region's mountains, the Colombia Digital Nomad Visa is your legal ticket in. But one of the most common questions is: what are the income requirements for this visa?
At ColombianPassport.com, we know clarity on this point is crucial. As experts in Colombian visas, we're going to break down exactly how much you need to demonstrate to qualify, no beating around the bush.
Understanding the Key Income Requirement
To apply for the Digital Nomad Visa (officially known as Visa V - Digital Nomad), the Colombian government requires you to demonstrate sufficient economic capacity to support yourself during your stay. This ensures you won't become a burden on the Colombian state.
The specific requirement is as follows: you must demonstrate monthly income equivalent to at least three (3) current Colombian Legal Monthly Minimum Wages (SMLMV).
Breaking Down the Key Number
What is SMLMV? It's the Legal Monthly Minimum Wage in Colombia. This value is adjusted and published by the Colombian government every year.
Current Value (Important Reference): As of today (July 2025), the SMLMV in Colombia is $1,300,000 COP (Colombian Pesos). It's crucial to know that this value changes every year (usually in January), so always verify the current SMLMV for the year you plan to apply.
Income Requirement Calculation:
If the SMLMV is $1,300,000 COP, then 3 SMLMV is equivalent to:
$1,300,000 COP * 3 = $3,900,000 COP
In US Dollars (Approximate Reference): To give you a clearer idea, and assuming an exchange rate of 1 USD = 4,000 COP (the exchange rate fluctuates constantly):
$3,900,000 COP / 4,000 COP/USD = $975 USD
This means, approximately, you'd need to demonstrate monthly income of at least $975 USD. Keep in mind that this value might be slightly higher or lower depending on the current exchange rate and the annual SMLMV adjustment.
How to Prove Your Income: Required Documentation
Migración Colombia is very clear about the documents accepted to prove your income. You'll need to submit:
Bank Statements: Ideally, statements from the last three to six months showing regular deposits of your income. These should reflect a consistent and sufficient flow.
Employment or Service Contracts: If you work for a company abroad, a letter from your employer confirming your remote employment and salary. If you're a freelancer or independent contractor, current service provision contracts with your clients.
Income Certifications: This can include tax declarations from your home country, account statements from freelancing platforms (like Upwork or Fiverr), or letters from accountants certifying your income.
A crucial point: The income you demonstrate must come from sources outside Colombia. The essence of this visa is to attract foreign talent and spending to the country, not to create competition for local jobs.
Why the Digital Nomad Visa is Your Best Option
Unlike a tourist visa, which only allows you to stay in Colombia for a maximum of 180 days in a calendar year, the Digital Nomad Visa offers significant benefits:
Extended Stay: It's generally granted for a period of up to two (2) years, giving you ample time to explore and settle in.
Legality and Peace of Mind: It allows you to live and work legally from Colombia without worrying about overstaying your tourist visa or facing immigration issues.
Flexibility for Immersion: It's ideal for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the local culture, learn Spanish deeply, or simply explore the country without the time limitations of a visitor's visa.
Don't Overcomplicate It: Let the Experts Guide You
Understanding the income requirements and gathering the correct documentation can be a complex and often frustrating process. A small mistake or a missing document can lead to your application being rejected and significantly delay your relocation plans.
This is where Camila Ocampo and the Colombian Passport team are indispensable. With years of experience helping foreigners obtain their Colombian visas, we know exactly what documents you need, how to present them correctly, and how to handle any eventualities or additional requirements from the immigration authorities. Our mission is to make your transition to Colombia as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Don't let bureaucracy hinder your dream of being a digital nomad in Colombia. Contact
ColombianPassport today for expert advice and secure your Digital Nomad Visa without complications. We're here to make your Colombian adventure a reality!