• Digital Nomad Visa: Suited for remote employees, contractors, or freelancers, this visa requires employer certification of remote work status. Earnings should be three times the Colombian minimum wage (around $1,000), with health insurance and bank statements.

However, it’s intended for stays of one to two years, not permanent residency.

• General Visa Categories: Similar to the Digital Nomad Visa, general visas require documentation and certification. Business owners can self-certify if they pay themselves a consistent salary.

By following these guidelines, individuals can navigate the Colombian visa process effectively for a seamless transition to life in Medellin.

• Neighborhood Exploration: Consider what you like and explore Envigado and Laureles. Look for cafes, gyms, parks, and people’s meeting places.
• Your Lifestyle: Consider what you enjoy doing. Do you like going out at night or trying new restaurants? Think about what you’ll do daily to help you choose a neighborhood.
• Top Neighborhoods: El Poblado and Laureles are the two central neighborhoods to consider. El Poblado has a lot of nightlife and fancy restaurants. Laureles is more local and has lovely places to eat.
• Getting Comfortable: El Poblado might be a good choice for a more leisurely start. It’s like home and can help you settle into life in Medellin.
• Finding a Place to Live: Once you know where you want to live, find a place to stay. You can start with Airbnb, but it’s better to find a local option for a more extended stay after a while.

• Choose Reliable Platforms: Look for local furnished rental websites online. They often have lower prices compared to Airbnb. Be careful and avoid scams. Pay to get the keys or access to the apartment. Always ask for a rental agreement.

• Cost-Effective Options: Some platforms offer rentals between $800 and $1,000, which fits your budget. Unlike small studios on Airbnb, these options can include more space with multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, and more value for your money.

Using trusted local rental platforms and staying cautious, you can find affordable and spacious places to live in Medellin.

Discover a range of enjoyable activities to maximize your time in Medellin.

• Sports and Socializing: Spend time at the Deportiva, a popular sports hub for activities like tennis and basketball. It’s a great place to meet locals, especially at the gym. Nearby juice shops provide a casual space for mingling.
• Learn to Dance: Try out dancing at places like Dansai Novimento, a well-regarded dance studio. They welcome foreigners wanting to experience Colombian culture. Engaging in classes is a fun way to connect with enthusiastic locals.
• Local Experiences: Explore less touristy areas to experience authentic Medellin life. These neighborhoods offer insights into everyday living and affordable local food options.

• Boosted Proficiency Witness your language level soar from a two to a confident six or seven within three to six months.
• Local Exchanges Participate in local language exchange events held on specific nights in places like Laureles, providing genuine practice and learning opportunities.
• Cozy Cafes for Learning Opt for smaller
• Seamless Relocation For a smooth transition to life in Colombia, explore the comprehensive relocation guide tailored for those moving from their home country.