Moving to
Colombia
The real numbers for Colombia: take-home pay after tax, the true cost of living in Medellín, and how expats and nomads get a visa.
Take-home pay
Net salary in Colombia after income tax and social security:
Progressive tax + ~8% health/pension. Approximate.
Cost of living · Medellín
Visa
Digital-nomad visa needs ~3× minimum wage (~$1,000/mo).
Typical income requirement: $1,000/month.
Mixed — expat areas in Medellín/Bogotá are fine; avoid risky zones.
Dial 123 for police, ambulance or fire.
Get paid in your home currency, spend in COP, skip the ~3% bank markup.
Nomad-friendly cover that works from day one — most visas require it.
Moving to Colombia — FAQ
Is there income tax in Colombia?
Yes. Colombia taxes income on progressive brackets. On a $60,000 salary the effective rate is about 31.9%, leaving roughly $40,870.
Can digital nomads get a visa for Colombia?
Yes — Digital-nomad visa needs ~3× minimum wage (~$1,000/mo).
How much does it cost to live in Medellín?
A single person needs roughly $1,000/month in Medellín, and a family around $2,200/month, all-in.