Can you imagine retiring in a peaceful place, with pleasant weather all year round, quality healthcare, and a much lower cost of living than in your country?

Well, Colombia might be exactly what you’re looking for.

The country has earned a spot on the list of favorite destinations for foreign retirees, and it’s no coincidence: there are regions with mild climates year-round, a high-level healthcare system at affordable prices, and a culture so warm that it will make you feel at home from day one.

And to make this transition easier, Colombia offers a visa designed especially for pensioners: the M-Type retirement visa Colombia. With it, you can obtain legal residency and start enjoying your retirement here without complications.

In this guide — updated for 2025 — you’ll find everything you need to know to take this step with confidence:

• The visa requirements (income, documents, duration, and limitations)
• How to apply
• What to keep in mind regarding taxes
• The benefits of living in Colombia as a retiree
• Comparison with retiring in the U.S. and Canada
• Practical tips to make your move easier

Let’s get started!

M retirement visa colombia: What It Is and Who Qualifies

The M-Type retirement visa colombia is intended for foreigners who receive a lifetime pension and want to live legally in Colombia.

In essence, this visa gives you the possibility to:

• Live in Colombia
• Access services such as healthcare
• Obtain your foreigner ID card (cédula de extranjería)
• Enjoy all the benefits of retiring here

It’s a Migrant category visa that initially grants you temporary residence with the option to renew, and over time, it can open the door to permanent residency.

Below, I detail the key requirements and conditions to obtain it.

Main Requirements for the retirement visa Colombia (M-11) in 2025

To successfully apply, the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs requires you to meet a series of clear requirements.

General requirements:

• Digital passport-size photo (3×4 cm, white background), ideally taken in a studio.
• Copy of the main page of your passport.
• Copy of your last Colombian visa (only if applicable).
• If applying from a country different from your country of residence, a document proving your legal immigration status in that country.

Specific requirements:

• Minimum pension required: prove monthly income of at least three (3) current legal minimum wages.
  In 2025 this is approximately COP 4,270,500 (about USD 1,000–1,100 per month).
  This income must be lifetime and verifiable; lump-sum savings or temporary income are not accepted.
• Apostilled pension certificate: issued by the entity paying your pension (public or private), it must include your name, the monthly amount, and confirmation that it is for life.
  It must be apostilled or legalized in the country of origin and, if not in Spanish, officially translated.
• Health insurance with coverage in Colombia: can be international or local, but must cover accidents, illness, maternity, disability, hospitalization, death, or repatriation. Minimum validity is 12 months.
• Criminal record certificate: issued by your country of origin and by the countries where you have lived in the last 3 years. Apostilled or legalized, with translation if applicable, and issued no more than 6 months prior.
• Medical certificate of good health: issued by an authorized doctor (in Colombia or your country), apostilled/legalized and translated if necessary. Must confirm that you have good physical and mental health to reside in Colombia.

Important: all foreign documents must be apostilled or legalized and translated into Spanish if they are not already in Spanish.

Note: The Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs reviews each application manually and may request additional documentation or clarifications on a case-by-case basis. It is essential to present the information clearly and completely from the start to avoid requests that could delay the process.

Duration, Renewal, and Limitations of the M retirement visa Colombia

The M retirement visa Colombia can be valid for up to 3 years.

However, here’s something that often happens: many times, the first time it is approved, it is granted for a shorter period (for example, only 1 year). 

Later, when you renew it and have already demonstrated that you meet all the requirements, they usually grant the full 3 years. This depends entirely on the immigration authority, so don’t be surprised if your first visa is shorter.

The good news is that you can renew it before it expires and continue living legally in Colombia, as long as you maintain the requirements (especially the minimum pension amount and other conditions).

And here’s an important advantage: if you accumulate 5 years with this visa, you will have the right to apply for the Resident Visa (R). This one is long-term and, if you keep it for another 5 years, you could even take the step toward Colombian citizenship.

Limitations and Important Obligations

No work allowed

With this visa, you cannot engage in paid work activities in Colombia. It is intended solely for residing as a retiree, living off your pension.

If you work without permission, you risk immigration penalties.

Note: This restriction does not prevent you from volunteering, studying, or managing your own assets; what you cannot do is accept local employment.

No contributions to the Colombian pension system

You will not be able to join the Colombian public pension system unless there is a bilateral agreement between your country and Colombia that allows it.

This does not mean you cannot access the healthcare system (EPS); in fact, it is mandatory to enroll once you have your foreigner ID card. Simply put, your pension income is considered sufficient, which is why you don’t contribute here.

Minimum stay in Colombia

Since 2022, holders of M-type visas must spend at least 180 days per year in the country to keep it.
If you spend more than 180 consecutive days outside Colombia, Migración Colombia may cancel your visa for “abandonment of territory” as soon as you try to re-enter.

In short: you can travel as much as you want, but plan your trips so you do not exceed those 6 continuous months outside the country.

Foreigner ID card (Cédula de extranjería)

Once you enter Colombia with your visa, you have 15 days to process your foreigner ID card (the official ID for foreigners).
With the cédula, you can join the healthcare system, open bank accounts, and access many other services.
The process is done at Migración Colombia, usually with an appointment, presenting your passport with the valid visa. Don’t skip this: it is a legal requirement for any foreigner with a visa longer than 3 months.

Beneficiaries: Bringing Your Spouse or Dependent Family Members

One of the most interesting advantages of the M retirement visa Colombia is that it not only allows you to legally reside in Colombia but also lets you bring your closest family members with you so they can obtain their own visa and live here legally.

The Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs allows you to include certain family members as beneficiaries, as long as they are financially dependent on you.

Who can be beneficiaries?

Spouse or permanent partner

This includes your husband/wife or common-law partner, as long as the union is duly registered. 

They must be foreign nationals, and with the beneficiary visa, they will be able to live with you in Colombia legally.
On their document, their occupation will appear as “home.”

Dependent children

Your sons or daughters who are financially dependent on you, up to 25 years old, can be included as beneficiaries.

In addition, if you have a son or daughter with a physical or mental disability, they can receive the beneficiary visa without any age limit, given that there is a special dependency.

In all cases, you must prove the family relationship (for example, with apostilled birth certificates or civil registry records) and the economic dependency (such as proof of studies or evidence that you cover their expenses).

Important things you should know

• Your beneficiaries’ visas will be tied to the validity of your main visa.
• They cannot work in Colombia (their occupation will appear as “student” or “dedicated to home”) unless they change their visa type.
• If for any reason you lose or cancel your visa, your dependents’ visas will also become invalid.

Therefore, plan carefully with your family before starting the process to avoid inconveniences.

What about the holder’s parents?

In the retirement category, it is not possible to include your parents as beneficiaries.

Some resident visa categories do allow bringing retired parents as dependents, but this is not the case here.

If you have parents under your care whom you want to bring, you would need to explore independent visa options for them.

Tax Considerations: Pension Taxes and Other Issues

An important aspect for any foreign retiree is understanding the tax implications of living in Colombia. The good news is that Colombia offers a fairly favorable treatment for foreign pensions, with broad exemptions, although there are details to keep in mind.

Tax Residence:

In Colombia, you acquire the status of a tax resident if you remain in the country for more than 183 days within a 365-day period. 

Since with the retirement visa colombia it is expected that you reside at least six months per year in Colombia, it is very likely that you will be considered a Colombian tax resident. 

This means that, starting the following year, you would have to file an income tax return in Colombia reporting your worldwide income. 

However, not all residents pay taxes; it depends on the income level.

Exemption on Foreign Pensions:

According to Colombian tax law, retirement pensions are exempt from income tax up to a certain amount. 

Specifically, pensions whose monthly value does not exceed 1,000 UVT are exempt from income tax; only the portion that exceeds that monthly limit would be taxed. 

For 2025, 1,000 UVT is approximately COP 49,799,000 (around USD 12,100 per month). 

This means that practically the majority of pensions receive exempt treatment, since very few retirees receive more than USD 12k per month. In other words, if your pension is less than 1,000 UVT per month, you will not pay tax on that income in Colombia. 

If it exceeds that amount, only the excess will be subject to tax at progressive rates. 

For example, if you had a pension of, say, USD 14,000 per month (well above the average), the first ~$12,000 would be exempt, and the remainder would be taxed according to the brackets. 

In 2023, the rates range from 0% to 39% for the highest brackets (brighttax.com), but again, it is unlikely that an average retiree would fall into the higher ranges due to the exemption mentioned.

Income Tax Filing:

Even if your pension does not exceed the threshold for paying taxes, as a tax resident you may still be required to file an annual income tax return if you meet any of the following criteria:

📌 1. The total value of your assets (worldwide) as of December 31, 2024, is ≥ COP 211,792,000 (≈ USD 51,656).
Includes: properties, vehicles, bank accounts, investments—anywhere in the world.

📌 2. Your total income in 2024 is ≥ COP 65,891,000 (≈ USD 16,070).
Includes: salary, freelance work, rentals, pensions, commissions, etc.

📌 3. You spent ≥ COP 65,891,000 on credit cards.
Even if the funds came from abroad—if you spent them in Colombia, they count.

📌 4. You spent ≥ COP 65,891,000 on purchases or general expenses.
Includes: rent, food, travel, etc.

📌 5. Your bank deposits or financial transactions in Colombia were ≥ COP 65,891,000.
Even if the funds came from abroad—if they passed through Colombian banks, they count.

IMPORTANT: You only need to meet one of these criteria to be obligated to file. It is always recommended to consult a Colombian tax accountant to comply properly.

No Tax Treaty with the U.S.:

If you are a U.S. citizen, remember that the U.S. taxes its citizens even if they live abroad, and there is no double taxation treaty with Colombia. 

This means that you could be subject to taxes both in Colombia (as a tax resident) and in the U.S. (by citizenship). 

Fortunately, most of your pension will probably be exempt in Colombia (as explained), and in the U.S., Social Security income is partially exempt, and foreign tax credits exist. 

The important thing is to seek advice on how to report your taxes in both countries to avoid double taxation. 

For example, you could use the Foreign Tax Credit (FTC) in the U.S. to offset taxes paid in Colombia, although if you pay nothing in Colombia because of the exemption, in the U.S. you could benefit from exclusions like the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (more applicable to employment income than pensions) or other provisions.

Regarding Canada, if you are Canadian and reside in Colombia, Canada does have a double taxation treaty with Colombia, and usually Canadian government pensions are taxed only in Canada (but individual cases should be reviewed).

In Summary: Colombia is very attractive fiscally for the average retiree: your foreign pension will not be taxed as long as it does not exceed the thresholds, and if you organize your finances well, it is possible to enjoy your retirement with minimal tax burden in Colombia. 

That said, fulfilling tax filing obligations is necessary, so it is always advisable to consult a tax expert to properly plan your situation, especially if you have multiple sources of income or significant assets.

Benefits of Retiring in Colombia

Retiring in Colombia is not only possible from an immigration standpoint—it can also be one of the best decisions you make for your quality of life.

And we’re not the only ones saying this: every year, more and more international retirees choose this country as their new home, and the reasons are clear.

Here are some of the most attractive benefits that make Colombia stand out as a destination to enjoy your retirement.

Affordable Cost of Living

One of the greatest advantages is the relatively low cost of living. Colombia, in general, is much more affordable than the United States, Canada, or Western Europe in areas such as housing, food, transportation, and entertainment.

It is estimated that the cost of living in Colombia is about 60% lower than in the U.S. on average.

For example, a lunch or dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant in Colombia can cost $20–$30 USD, while in comparable North American cities it would be between $50–$70 USD.

Likewise, fresh market products (fruits, vegetables, meats) are accessible and of good quality, allowing you to maintain a healthy diet without spending much.

When it comes to housing, rental and purchase prices are very favorable: renting a one-bedroom apartment in a central area of Bogotá or Medellín can be around $500 USD per month (even less in medium-sized cities), whereas in U.S. cities like New York or San Francisco that same rent exceeds $2,000–$3,000 USD.

Buying property is also more affordable; the price per square meter in Colombia’s main cities ranges from $1,100–$3,000 USD (depending on the city and area), while in major North American cities it rarely goes below $8,000–$10,000 USD per m² in central locations.

Additionally, property taxes and maintenance costs are low (in Colombia, property tax is usually 0.3% to 1% of the property’s value, compared to averages of 1%–3% in the U.S.).

All of this means your retirement savings stretch much further in Colombia—you can live comfortably on a budget that would barely cover the basics in your home country.

To truly understand why so many retirees choose Colombia, there’s nothing better than comparing basic expenses with those in the U.S.

The following values are approximate averages in large cities like Medellín or Bogotá, clearly showing how much more your budget can go here.

Practical Example:

In Colombia, a retiree can live comfortably on $1,500–$2,000 USD per month, including housing, food, transportation, health insurance, and entertainment.

In cities like New York, Toronto, or Vancouver, that budget would barely cover rent and basic expenses.

High-Quality, Low-Cost Healthcare

Colombia has made tremendous progress in healthcare, to the point where it is considered one of the best systems in Latin America.

In fact, the World Health Organization ranked it 22nd worldwide in healthcare performance—above many developed countries.

What does this mean for you as a retiree? That you will have access to high-level medical care at prices you wouldn’t believe possible.

In cities such as Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and Bucaramanga, you will find hospitals and clinics with international standards—many so modern and well-equipped that they even attract foreign patients, a phenomenon known as medical tourism.

The system works with two main options:

• EPS (Public, mandatory): As a resident with a visa, you can enroll by paying a low monthly premium. Many retired expats Colombia report paying between USD 70 and 85 per month for a couple, with full coverage for basic and emergency care.
• Prepaid medicine (Private): More comfortable and faster plans, usually costing between USD 150 and 300 per month—still well below the cost of health insurance in the U.S.

To give you an idea:

• A general practitioner consultation in Colombia, paying out of pocket, can cost USD 20–50. In the U.S., that same consultation easily exceeds USD 100–200.
• A surgical procedure here can cost just a fraction of what you’d pay in North America, without sacrificing quality—many Colombian doctors have international training and work with modern equipment.

Additionally, as a senior in Colombia, you receive priority care: you won’t face long queues, and there’s a cultural respect for older adults.

Important: To live in Colombia you need health insurance. When applying for your visa, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs requires international coverage, but once you’re settled, you can join the local system (EPS). Many foreigners choose to combine both:

• Keep international insurance for any care outside Colombia.
• Use the EPS for day-to-day and national care.

In summary, having high-quality, affordable healthcare is one of the factors that makes Colombia a true retirement paradise—especially if you’re coming from the U.S., where healthcare is extremely expensive, or from countries with overcrowded public systems.

Climate & Lifestyle in Medellín and Antioquia

Colombia has become an increasingly popular destination for retirees due to its pleasant climate, affordable cost of living, and the warmth of its people.

However, within this vast country, Medellín and its surroundings in Antioquia stand out as a particularly attractive option.

Medellín, known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” offers ideal weather all year round, with no extreme winters, and a quality of life that blends modernity with close proximity to nature.

In addition, Antioquia offers a variety of landscapes, from cool mountain areas to warm tropical zones, allowing retirees to choose the environment that best suits them.

In this article, we will focus on Medellín and Antioquia as the ideal destination for retirement, exploring not only their climate and natural beauty but also social integration opportunities and advantages for expats Colombia

Medellín, known as the City of Eternal Spring, offers perfect weather with an average temperature of 24°C (75°F) year-round — no extreme winters!

The climate in Medellín is one of the main reasons it is such a popular choice for retirees.

But the beauty of Colombian weather doesn’t stop at the city. Just a short trip from Medellín, you’ll find other areas of Antioquia with varied climates and breathtaking landscapes:

• Mountainous regions with cooler temperatures, perfect for a refreshing getaway.
• Tropical heat in nearby towns, offering a mix of beaches, jungles, and lush vegetation.

Colombia is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, and in Antioquia, you can easily explore everything from tropical forests to the peaceful Andean mountains.

But it’s not just about the climate, it’s the lifestyle too.

Whether you live in the heart of Medellín or enjoy the calm of a small town in Antioquia, the warmth of the Colombian people will make you feel at home.

Respect for older generations is deeply ingrained in the culture, and you’ll feel welcome from day one.

Active expats Colombia Communities & Activities:

• Volunteer opportunities
• Dance classes (especially salsa!)
• Art workshops
• Language exchange groups

And don’t forget — retirees over 60 enjoy special discounts on transportation, museums, and parks, making it even easier to enjoy the rich cultural life of the region.

You can enjoy a peaceful life in a small town or live in a more dynamic environment in the city — the choice is yours.

Living in Antioquia means immersing yourself in a vibrant community, surrounded by nature and cultural wealth, making your retirement truly fulfilling.

Legal Benefits and Discounts

Possibility of Dual Citizenship

If you fall in love with Colombia and decide to stay forever, you have the option to become a Colombian citizen without giving up your original nationality.

The path is: first, obtain permanent residency, maintain it for 5 years, and then you can apply for citizenship.

Colombia allows dual nationality, so you would keep all the rights and passport of your home country.

Being a citizen gives you voting rights, full integration, and all legal benefits—although even with permanent residency you can live here without limits. It’s simply an interesting option for those who want to put down roots.

Ease of Purchasing Property and Investing

In Colombia, foreigners can buy property with practically the same rights as citizens.

That means if during your retirement you decide to purchase a house, apartment, or farm, there are no special restrictions.

In fact, many retirees do so to avoid rent increases and take advantage of a real estate market that remains more affordable than in many countries.

Plus, if you invest in real estate for at least a certain amount, you can qualify for the M – Real Estate Investment Visa, which allows you to reside legally in Colombia for up to 3 years and, after 5 consecutive years, apply for permanent residency.

In 2025, the minimum investment required is 350 SMLV, equivalent to about COP $498,225,000 (approx. USD 115,000).
This amount rises each year with the increase in the minimum wage, so it’s advisable to invest slightly above the minimum to avoid issues in future renewals.

Preferential Treatment in Procedures

In Colombia, the law guarantees that people over 60 or 65 years old receive priority attention in banks, public entities, and official procedures.

For example, in most banks you’ll find a special counter or line for seniors where you’re attended faster.

It may seem like a small detail, but when you do several procedures a month, this preferential service makes a difference.

Air Connections and Regional Travel

Colombia is strategically located and very well connected by air with both North America and the rest of Latin America.

From Bogotá, Medellín, or Cartagena, there are direct flights to Miami, Houston, New York, Toronto, Mexico City, Madrid, and many more destinations.

This makes it easy to travel to visit family or receive visitors without long layovers.

And not only that—living in Colombia allows you to take advantage of your free time to visit neighboring countries such as Peru, Ecuador, Panama, or Brazil, all just a few hours away by plane.

In other words, you place yourself in the heart of the Americas, with endless opportunities to travel and enjoy.

Best Places to Retire in Antioquia

Colombia is a large and diverse country, which means your retirement experience can vary greatly depending on the city or region you choose.

The good news is that there are options for all tastes, whether you’re looking for a specific climate, a quieter lifestyle, or greater access to services.

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular destinations in Antioquia for retirees, each with its own charm:

Medellín

Medellín, known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” is one of the most sought-after destinations for foreign retirees in Colombia.

With a moderate climate (average of 24°C or 75°F year-round), Medellín offers an unmatched combination of modern urban life and easy access to nature.

The city boasts excellent infrastructure, including the country’s only metro system, and a vibrant cultural scene.

In neighborhoods like El Poblado and Laureles, you’ll find comfortable apartments, international restaurants, shopping malls, top-tier hospitals, and an active expats Colombia community.

Plus, the mountainous environment of the Valle de Aburrá offers spectacular views and outdoor activities, keeping you always connected to nature while enjoying urban comforts.

Medellín has also changed its image over the years, leaving behind its old stigma and becoming a symbol of innovation and progress, with friendly people and a welcoming atmosphere.

Guatapé and Surroundings

If you’re looking for a peaceful retirement just outside of Medellín, Guatapé is an excellent choice.

Located about an hour from the city, Guatapé is famous for its imposing Roca del Peñol and the beautiful lake surrounding it.

The town has a pleasant climate and is perfect for those who wish to enjoy the peace and beauty of nature while staying close to Medellín.

With its colorful architecture and picturesque atmosphere, it’s a charming place to live.

Rionegro

Located about 45 minutes from Medellín, Rionegro offers a unique blend of rural life and modern amenities.

Known for its relaxed pace of life, Rionegro is surrounded by the stunning Andes mountains, offering majestic views and a peaceful atmosphere.

It’s an ideal option for retirees who want the calm of the countryside, but without being too far from the services and infrastructure of Medellín.

Additionally, Rionegro is close to the José María Córdova International Airport, which makes international travel easy.

Santa Fe de Antioquia

For an authentic small-town experience, Santa Fe de Antioquia is a fabulous option.

Known for its cobbled streets and colonial architecture, this town offers a slower, more relaxed pace of life.

Located about 80 km from Medellín, it has a warm and dry climate, ideal for those who prefer tropical weather.

Santa Fe de Antioquia offers a picturesque and peaceful environment, with views of nearby mountains and a unique colonial atmosphere.

Jardín

For those seeking a peaceful rural town with beautiful natural landscapes, Jardín is the perfect destination.

Located in the southwest of Antioquia, Jardín is known for its lush vegetation and coffee plantations.

With a mild climate year-round, this town is ideal for those who want a break from urban life without being too far from Medellín. The town has a charming atmosphere and a relaxed vibe.

Yarumal

If you prefer cooler temperatures, Yarumal offers a serene and calm environment, located in the northern part of Antioquia.

Known for its agricultural richness and beautiful mountain views, Yarumal is ideal for those who want to live in a more rural setting but still have access to Medellín and its services.

Challenges and Considerations (What You Should Keep in Mind)

Retiring in Colombia comes with many advantages, but as with any place, it’s important to be aware of the potential challenges so you can plan accordingly.

Here are some of the most common issues retirees might face—and how to navigate them:

Language

The official language is Spanish. While in larger cities many younger people have some English skills, day-to-day life will often require you to communicate in Spanish.

For an English-speaking retiree, this can be challenging at first. The good news is that Colombian Spanish (especially in Bogotá or Medellín) is clear and relatively easy to learn.

Tip: Take Spanish classes, practice with neighbors, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. People will appreciate your effort, and over time, this will stop being a barrier—becoming bilingual will enrich your experience.

Bureaucracy and Paperwork

Administrative processes in Colombia can sometimes be slow and inconsistent.

Opening a bank account, handling paperwork at a government office, or even certain medical procedures might require patience.

Rules can change, and different officials might give different answers.

The key? Patience, persistence, and asking for clarification when needed. If a process gets stuck, seek help from a local or a professional advisor. With the right mindset, you’ll avoid unnecessary frustration.

Variable Infrastructure

In major cities, you’ll find modern infrastructure—good hospitals, decent public transport, and reliable utilities.

In rural towns, however, services may be more limited. 

For example, coastal villages might have slower internet, and remote areas could have limited access to advanced healthcare.

When choosing where to live, many retirees opt for smaller towns but stay within 1–2 hours of a major city for healthcare access and other services. 

Colombia’s road network varies—some highways are excellent, others less so—so research your specific destination carefully.

Climate and Geography

Colombia’s climate is diverse, but not every environment suits everyone.

Lowland coastal cities like Cartagena and Barranquilla can be hot and humid year-round (30–35°C / 86–95°F), while Bogotá’s cooler mountain climate can feel gray or chilly to some.

Geography also brings natural risks: heavy rains can cause flooding or landslides in certain areas, and Colombia is seismically active. 

While cities are generally well-prepared, it’s best to understand any environmental risks before settling down.

Safety

Security in Colombia has improved dramatically over the past decades, but some areas still face petty crime or, in remote regions, the presence of illegal groups. 

Most retirees live in safe urban neighborhoods or peaceful tourist towns.

Basic precautions go a long way: know which areas to avoid, don’t flaunt valuables, and use common-sense safety measures like safes and awareness in crowds. 

Popular expats Colombia areas (El Poblado in Medellín, northern Bogotá, Bocagrande in Cartagena) have safety levels comparable to many Western cities.

Distance from Family and Adjustment

Relocating abroad means being far from your familiar support network. Technology helps—video calls, direct flights to the U.S.—but you may still miss home. 

Cultural differences, new foods, and different social customs can take time to adjust to.

Keeping an open mind, embracing Colombian traditions, and making local friends will help. Staying in touch with the expats Colombia community can also provide emotional support during the transition.

Bottom Line

No destination is perfect. Colombia offers many rewards—great weather, lower cost of living, rich culture—but also has its challenges. With preparation, flexibility, and the right mindset, most of these can be managed.

If you value a mild climate, affordability, and cultural adventure, and you’re open to learning a new language, Colombia will likely more than reward you for making it your retirement home.

Comparison: Retiring in Colombia vs. the U.S. and Canada (2025)

Colombia has unique charms for those looking for a place to enjoy their retirement… but the logical question is: how does it really compare to the United States or Canada?

Laying all the cards on the table helps you make an informed decision — and the biggest differences can be seen in four key areas:

• Cost of living
• Tax burden
• Access to the healthcare system
• Senior care services

To make it crystal clear, here’s a table with updated 2025 data. This way, you can compare — point by point — how your purchasing power and quality of life can change depending on where you choose to spend this stage of life.

For many, retiring in Colombia is the perfect combination: pleasant weather year-round, a much lower cost of living, quality healthcare, and relatively straightforward immigration procedures.

In contrast, the U.S. and Canada often mean much higher expenses and, in many cases, less favorable weather. That’s why more and more retirees choose to spend most of the year in Colombia and only travel back to their home country occasionally.

If you want to know whether this lifestyle is right for you, the best approach is to do a trial stay of 3–6 months. This allows you to live the day-to-day, experience the pace, the services, and the culture — and decide if this is the place where you want to enjoy your retirement.

Final Thoughts & Advice

Retiring in Colombia in 2025 isn’t just a nice idea — it’s a realistic, achievable option and, for many, the best decision they could make.

The country offers:

• Pensioner-friendly visa options that are easy to qualify for with a modest pension.
• A straightforward application process for residence.
• Tax advantages that keep more money in your pocket.
• Unmatched lifestyle benefits in terms of quality of life, healthcare, climate, and culture.

We’ve also discussed potential challenges — like the language barrier or safety considerations — which, with a little preparation and awareness, become manageable.

Key tips before making the move

1. Keep your paperwork in order

Have all your documents ready for your visa application: pension certification, criminal background check, health insurance…

Remember that apostilles and translations can take weeks or even months, so start early to avoid delays.

2. Get local, personalized guidance

Once you’re here, surround yourself with people who’ve already gone through this process — experienced expats Colombia and trusted local professionals.

They’ll help with things like opening a bank account, renting or buying property, joining the healthcare system, or simply understanding daily life.

In cities like Medellín, you’ll find very active expats Colombia communities on Facebook, forums, and in-person groups that share advice… and good times.

3. Learn basic Spanish

You don’t need to be fluent from the start, but it’s worth investing in intensive classes (either before arriving or right after).

Being able to greet people, ask for directions, or chat with your neighbors in their language opens doors and makes your adaptation easier and more rewarding.

The good news? Colombians are patient and happy to help you practice.

4. Explore the country

Don’t limit yourself to your arrival city. Colombia has Caribbean beaches, mountains, jungles, and charming small towns.

Every region has its own character, climate, and cuisine.

Many retirees discover new passions, projects, and even business opportunities while traveling within the country.

5. Have a clear health plan

Even though the healthcare system is good, always keep at hand the contact information for your go-to clinic in emergencies, know exactly what your coverage includes, and, if you prefer, have English-speaking doctors on your list.

Make a note of your regular medications so you can easily buy them here (many are cheaper and sold over the counter).

6. Understand the legal details

Be aware of any regulations that might apply to you:

• Colombian driver’s license requirements if you plan to drive.
• Rules for bringing pets.
• Steps to take if you marry a Colombian or need to prepare a local will for assets in the country.

These details might not be exciting, but they give you peace of mind.

And most importantly… enjoy the process!

Moving to another country in retirement is a bold step that can revitalize your life with new experiences, friendships, and learning.

Colombia — with everything it is, and also everything it isn’t — has an energy that’s hard to match.

If you take the leap, you’ll find a country full of stunning landscapes, music, unique flavors, nature, and warm people waiting with open arms.

Welcome to Colombia… and to the start of your happy retirement!