Moving to Colombia | Wandering Soup

Below is a quick nutshell view for those that don't want to watch the Vlog:

Land- Yes! As an expat you can own land in Colombia and the process is the same as a native. You must of course have a valid passport and the funds necessary for the purchase. Land ownership can lead to residency as well, depending on the amount spent.

Business Ownership - The short answer is yes you can. The long answer is that there is a lengthy process and you will need a lawyer and an accountant.

Citizenship - Yes and with the added bonus of retaining your U.S. citizenship or rather having dual citizenship. Most of the countries we've looked at so far have laws that grant citizenship based on time, 5, 7 or even 10 years. Colombia continues that with a 5 year residence requirement or two years if you are married to a Colombian national. There are a number of things need to complete the application along with proof of taxes. Keep in mind that if you choose to live in Colombia you will have to pay taxes not only in America but in Colombia also.

Visa Rules - Colombia has over 15 types of Visa. If you are seriously considering moving here please research with the help of a local lawyer/advisor on which one is the best for you.

Medical - Great healthcare to be found here with Colombia ranked #22 globally, the US is ranked #37.

There are three types of medical coverage available in Colombia, though only two are available to non-Colombians:

• Entidades Promotoras de Salud (EPS): EPS is the public healthcare system and is mandatory for all residents. The monthly premium is 12.5% of your monthly gross income. It is Mandatory

• Medicina Prepagada: Private health insurance available through different private companies.

If you are over 60 years of age or have certain pre-existing health conditions, you will be denied Medicina Prepagada insurance. Expats not eligible for Prepagada insurance may want to look into a global health insurance policy. You may also opt to pay out of pocket for treatment. Remember that no one can be denied care through the public EPS system.

Education - You have options! School is mandatory for Colombians up til middle school. What this means for you is lots of various options from public (visa required), private and international schools that will of course cost you. If you are looking for English based teaching then more than likely you will have to factor in the cost of private or international schools

Cost of Living - As with a lot of countries it's really relative to you and your comfort level however you can easily live comfortably in Colombia on a $1000 a month budget depending on the city. It's a great, relatively close to the U.S. country for retires of those who are worried about elderly parents/family.

LGBTQI Friendly - On the surface this appears to be a very friendly LGBTQI country with laws that have essentially been in effect for decades. Again that's on the surface, below the surface it's not as safe. At least not for natives. This may be a situation where being an American offers a measure of protection. Use it if you choose to move here.

Black and Abroad - Welcome once again to the effects of colonization and slavery. There is a significant Afro-Colombian population that is marginalized. You may be looked on as a local depending on your skin color being brutally honest and that could be in your favor or against. Use that American accent to your advantage.

Hopefully the above helps you! Where shall we look at next?

Kat

*All information for "Moving to Colombia" may change, please remember do your research*

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