Health Insurance for Expats in Colombia

Overview

Colombia has emerged as one of the most popular destinations for digital nomads and remote workers, particularly Medellín with its spring-like climate, modern infrastructure, and affordable cost of living. The country offers high-quality private healthcare at prices that surprise many newcomers.

Colombia's digital nomad visa makes it easier than ever to stay long-term, and while health insurance isn't strictly required for all visa categories, it's strongly recommended given the excellent care available through private facilities.

Healthcare System

Colombia's healthcare system ranks among the best in Latin America. It operates through a dual public-private model with surprisingly affordable care in both tiers.

Public Healthcare (EPS)

The Entidades Promotoras de Salud (EPS) system provides healthcare to contributing members. Quality varies by region:

• Generally good in major cities like Bogotá and Medellín
• Moderate wait times for non-urgent care
• Some English-speaking staff in metropolitan hospitals
• Very affordable for those enrolled

Expats with work contracts can enroll in EPS, but most choose private care or international insurance for faster access and more English-speaking providers.

Private Healthcare

Colombia's private hospitals rival those in developed countries, particularly in Medellín and Bogotá:

• Fundación Santa Fe (Bogotá): JCI-accredited, internationally recognized
• Hospital Pablo Tobón Uribe (Medellín): Top-rated, excellent specialists
• Clínica Las Américas (Medellín): Modern facility popular with expats
• Fundación Cardioinfantil (Bogotá): Leading cardiac care center
• Clínica del Country (Bogotá): Full-service private hospital

Medellín in particular has invested heavily in healthcare infrastructure, becoming a major medical tourism destination for procedures ranging from dental work to complex surgeries.

Visa and Insurance Requirements

Colombia offers several visa options for expats. Insurance requirements vary by category:

Digital Nomad Visa (V Visa)

Colombia's digital nomad visa (officially a V Visa for remote workers) requires:

• Proof of remote work with income of $684+/month (3x minimum wage)
• Health insurance valid in Colombia for the visa duration
• Valid up to 2 years, renewable

The insurance requirement makes international health insurance essential for digital nomads. Coverage must include medical expenses in Colombia.

Migrant Visa (M Visa)

For those with work contracts, business investments, or as retirees (pensionado). Insurance isn't strictly required but is strongly recommended.

Resident Visa (R Visa)

After 5 years on other visa types, you can apply for residency. No specific insurance requirement, but most long-term expats maintain coverage.

Recommended Plans

For expats in Colombia, international health insurance offers the best combination of local coverage and global flexibility. Given Colombia's younger expat demographic (digital nomads, remote workers), pricing tends to be quite affordable.

Note: Prices shown for age 35 to reflect Colombia's digital nomad demographic. Older expats will pay more.

For Digital Nomads

SafetyWing is the go-to choice for younger nomads on a budget—it meets visa requirements and covers basics at a low monthly cost. IMG Global offers more comprehensive coverage at moderate prices for those wanting better protection.

For Long-term Expats

Cigna Global, Allianz Care, and BUPA Global provide robust coverage for those settling in Colombia long-term. Key considerations:

• Direct billing at major Colombian hospitals
• Worldwide coverage for travel
• US coverage if you need to return for care
• Comprehensive outpatient benefits

For US Expats

GeoBlue works well for Americans who may return to the US for care or want seamless coverage when visiting family. The BCBS network access is valuable for US trips.

Expected Costs

Colombia offers exceptional healthcare value. Even without insurance, private care is affordable by international standards.

Insurance Premium Ranges

For a healthy 35-year-old in Colombia (typical digital nomad age):

• Budget (SafetyWing): $45-80/month
• Mid-range (IMG, Allianz): $100-220/month
• Premium (Cigna, BUPA): $150-280/month

These rates are lower than many countries because Colombia's reasonable healthcare costs translate to lower insurer payouts.

Out-of-Pocket Strategy

Some expats in Colombia opt for high-deductible insurance plus out-of-pocket payment for routine care. Given Colombia's low private healthcare costs, this works well for healthy individuals. A GP visit at $30-60 makes paying cash for minor issues practical.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need health insurance for a Colombia visa?

For the digital nomad visa, yes—health insurance valid in Colombia is required. For other visa types, it's not always mandatory but is strongly recommended.

Is Colombian healthcare good enough that I don't need international insurance?

Colombia's major cities have excellent healthcare. However, international insurance adds value through: direct billing (no large upfront payments), worldwide emergency coverage, medical evacuation if needed, and coverage for care in other countries or the US.

Can I use local Colombian insurance instead?

Yes, local insurers like Sura and Seguros Bolívar offer policies, often cheaper than international plans. However, they typically only cover care in Colombia and may have more restrictions. For digital nomads who travel, international insurance is usually better.

What if I live outside Bogotá or Medellín?

Smaller cities like Cartagena, Cali, and Barranquilla have good private hospitals. Rural areas have more limited options. International insurance with evacuation coverage is more important if you live in less-developed areas.

Is Medellín really as good for healthcare as people say?

Medellín has invested heavily in healthcare and is a legitimate medical tourism destination. Hospitals like Pablo Tobón Uribe and Las Américas are genuinely excellent. Many procedures cost a fraction of US prices with comparable quality.

Do I need evacuation coverage in Colombia?

While Colombia handles most medical needs domestically, evacuation coverage provides options for rare complex cases or if you prefer US care for serious conditions. Most international plans include it.