5 Business Ideas for Foreigners in Colombia in 2025

Colombia in 2025 isn’t just a travel hotspot—it’s a business magnet. The country is modernizing fast, attracting digital nomads, investors, and entrepreneurs who see more than palm trees and coffee: they see opportunity.

Lower operating costs, a skilled bilingual workforce, and a government that actively promotes foreign investment make Colombia one of the most promising places to start fresh. 

Whether you dream of launching a tech startup, running a boutique hotel, or building a call center, Colombia gives you a chance to do it at a fraction of the cost you’d face in North America or Europe.

Here are five business ideas that foreigners are already turning into profitable ventures—and that you can tap into in 2025.

1. Call Centers and BPO Services

One of the fastest-growing opportunities for foreigners is setting up call centers or outsourcing operations in Colombia. Cities like Medellín, Bogotá, and Cali have become regional hubs thanks to:

• Highly skilled bilingual workforce (English proficiency improving every year).
• Lower operational costs compared to the U.S. or Europe.
• Tax incentives in free trade zones for IT and customer service companies.

There are three main models you can choose from:

• EOR (Employer of Record): Hire through a local partner who manages payroll and compliance while you control daily operations.
• BOT (Build-Operate-Transfer): A local partner builds and runs the call center for 1–3 years, then transfers ownership once stable.
• BPO (Business Process Outsourcing): Fully outsource to a Colombian provider who handles staff, infrastructure, and delivery.

💡 Starting a call center in Colombia can reduce costs by 30–50% compared to the U.S., while still accessing world-class talent.

2. Hospitality and Short-Term Rentals

Tourism in Colombia hit record highs in 2023 with nearly 6 million international visitors (Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism). This demand has fueled opportunities for:

• Boutique hotels and eco-lodges.
• Short-term rentals (Airbnb) in cities like Cartagena, Medellín, and Bogotá.
• Restaurants, bars, and cultural cafés targeting both locals and expats.

The Colombian government also offers tax incentives for tourism-based investments, making this one of the most profitable business ideas for foreigners.

3. Language Schools and Cultural Academies

Colombia’s appetite for language learning keeps growing. English remains the top priority for students and professionals, but demand for French, German, and even Mandarin is also increasing.

Foreigners with teaching experience can open:

• English academies targeting university students and professionals.
• Spanish schools for expats and digital nomads.
• Cultural centers combining language with music, dance, or cooking.

Colombia currently ranks modestly in English proficiency (17th in Latin America), so opportunities for native speakers remain strong.

4. Tech Startups and App Development

Colombia is home to several “unicorns” like Rappi (USD 2.1 billion in funding) and Habi (USD 315 million). This proves that the local ecosystem is ready for more innovation.

Why tech is a good bet:

• Strong pool of underutilized IT talent (developers, UX designers, data analysts).
• Lower salaries compared to North America and Europe.
• A growing digital consumer base in urban areas.

If you’re considering business ideas, app development or SaaS products in sectors like fintech, real estate, and health are worth exploring.

5. Sustainable Agriculture and Exports

Colombia is the world’s leading exporter of specialty coffee and one of the largest producers of flowers, cacao, and avocados. For foreigners, there are entry points such as:

• Specialty coffee shops sourcing directly from local farmers.
• Organic cacao and chocolate brands.
• Eco-friendly farms offering agrotourism experiences.

With global demand for sustainable products rising, these ventures combine profitability with a positive social and environmental impact.

Key Considerations for Foreign Entrepreneurs

Before starting any business in Colombia, keep in mind:

• Foreign Investment Registration: All capital brought into Colombia must be registered with the Central Bank.
• Visa Requirements: You’ll need an Investor Visa (M-type) or a Business Visa to operate legally.
• Company incorporation: Register your business with the Chamber of Commerce, obtain a tax ID (NIT), and comply with DIAN requirements.
• Local Partners: Working with legal and accounting advisors is highly recommended to avoid compliance pitfalls.

Final Thoughts

Colombia offers a dynamic mix of growth, affordability, and opportunity. 

Whether you’re thinking about opening a call center in Medellín, running a boutique hotel in Cartagena, or building the next tech app, the country is fertile ground for entrepreneurial foreigners.

👉 These business ideas are not just profitable—they’re a chance to integrate into Colombia’s thriving economy while enjoying its lifestyle and culture.

Start Your Business in Colombia the Right Way

Setting up a business as a foreigner in Colombia can feel overwhelming: legal paperwork, foreign investment registration, tax compliance, and visa requirements. That’s where we come in.

At NEXO LEGAL, we specialize in helping foreigners incorporate companies in Colombia—fast, compliant, and hassle-free. 

From registering your company at the Chamber of Commerce to obtaining your NIT (tax ID) and guiding you through DIAN requirements, we handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on growing your business.

✅ Company incorporation from start to finish
✅ Foreign investment registration with the Central Bank
✅ Investor visa and residency support
✅ Accounting and tax compliance services

📩 Contact us today and book a free consultation. Let’s turn your business idea into a fully incorporated company in Colombia.