Colombia has become an ideal destination for digital nomads.

Its vibrant culture, low cost of living, and a visa tailored for digital nomads have attracted thousands of foreigners in recent years.

But amid the excitement, many are encountering an unexpected barrier: visa inadmissibility by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

And we’re not talking about procedural mistakes or poorly filled-out documents, but rather a concerning trend: negative responses with no clear reason, backed by the so-called “discretionary authority” of the Colombian state.

In this article, we explain what’s really happening, what you can do to reduce your risk of inadmissibility, and why having specialized legal support can make a difference when applying for the digital nomad visa Colombia offers.

Why Are So Many Digital Nomad Visas Being Rejected?

Inadmissibility does not mean a definitive denial, but…
It’s important to clarify that a visa inadmissibility is not a permanent rejection. You can reapply.

However, accumulating multiple inadmissibility responses can work against you. We’ve seen cases where, after two or more failed attempts, the immigration authority ends up issuing a definitive denial—again using discretionary authority.

That’s why the first application is key. Submitting it with a strategic and well-supported approach can make the difference between a successful process and a record marked by rejections.

This is especially true for those applying for the digital nomad visa Colombia has made available since 2022.

What Are the Most Common Reasons for Inadmissibility?

Here we explain in simple terms the most frequent reasons why digital nomad visa Colombia applicants are being rejected:

Discretionary Authority: the Black Box of the Immigration System

This is, without a doubt, the most frustrating reason for any applicant.

It refers to a decision made by the authority without explaining exactly what triggered the inadmissibility.

There are no notes to correct, no recommendations—just a flat-out “no” backed by the power of the state (Article 19, Resolution 5477 of 2022).

This leaves the applicant in limbo, with no clear foundation to improve their next application.
Even when submitting formal requests or complaints to seek clarification, the response is often the same: inadmissibility under discretionary authority.

“Your Activity Is Not of Interest to the Country”

This argument has become common, although it’s not always applicable.

Colombian regulations state that this criterion only applies to entrepreneurial nomads—those coming to develop digital content or specific technologies that contribute to the country (Article 46, Resolution 5477 of 2022).

However, we’ve seen this same argument applied to remote employees, freelancers, or partners of foreign companies.

Even though these profiles are not legally subject to that requirement, the official response has been inadmissibility for not representing an interest to Colombia—even if the applicant was applying for the digital nomad visa Colombia launched to attract remote workers.

Lack of Clarity in the Employment Relationship

Another frequent reason is the subjective perception of weakness in the employment relationship.

Even if an applicant presents a valid work letter, the immigration authority can reject it if they believe the document doesn’t appear sufficiently official or robust.

Some examples that have led to inadmissibility:

• Letters without a logo or letterhead
• Lack of clear details about the type of contract
• Omission of key information like job functions, duration, salary, or hierarchical relationship

This shows that beyond having the right document, it’s crucial to ensure proper visual presentation, wording, and formal elements that build trust—especially for those seeking the digital nomad visa Colombia provides.

Applicants Who Appear to Want to Stay Longer Than Allowed

The Digital Nomad Visa is a Visitor-type visa, designed for temporary stays.

But when the application suggests an intent to establish long-term residency—for example, if you’ve already had a digital nomad visa and are applying again—the authority may interpret that you should actually be applying for a Type M (Migrant) Visa.

In that case, they may reject your application, again citing discretionary authority.

We’ve received several reports from applicants who were directly told that “the visa is only granted for a maximum of 2 years,” even though this is not established in the law.

This has created confusion and uncertainty among those who plan to work remotely under the digital nomad visa Colombia promotes.

What Does the Law Actually Say?

The current regulation does not set a limit on the number of times you can apply for the Digital Nomad Visa, nor does it state that it can only be granted for a maximum of two years.

It also does not require that the applicant’s work be of “interest to the country”—except in the case of entrepreneurial nomads.

However, the Ministry has used arguments not included in the law to justify inadmissibility, causing frustration among people who fully comply with the established requirements for the digital nomad visa Colombia regulates.

So… Does a Visa Inadmissibility Mean I Can’t Reapply?

No. An inadmissibility does not prevent you from applying again.

But accumulating multiple inadmissibility responses can significantly increase the risk of a final rejection—also backed by discretionary authority.

Each time you apply, your history is reviewed. And if you’ve had several negative responses, the chances of another inadmissibility increase.

That’s why it’s critical not to improvise. Your first application is your best chance to get it right—especially for the digital nomad visa Colombia applicants increasingly rely on.

What Can You Do to Reduce the Risk of Inadmissibility?

At Nexo Legal, we recommend you:

1. Prepare a Flawless Application From the Start

Every document counts. From work letters to certificates, everything must be well presented, translated, apostilled, and consistent.

2. Include Strategic Supporting Documentation

If your work is not perceived as “relevant to the country,” include documents explaining your economic, professional, or social impact in Colombia. This can tip the balance in your favor.

3. Don’t Apply Just to Apply

We understand that after an inadmissibility, it’s tempting to resubmit your application. But doing so without adjustments or review may hurt your case in the long term.

Before reapplying, make sure your profile is updated and strengthened.

4. Consult With a Specialized Legal Team

Our team has handled dozens of digital nomad visa Colombia cases.

We know how to structure your application to minimize the risk of inadmissibility, and if you’ve already received one, we can help reshape your immigration profile.

What Other Options Do I Have If My Digital Nomad Visa Was Already Inadmitted?

Depending on your case, you may consider alternatives such as:

• Type M (Migrant) Visa for investment, business, or family ties
• Student Visa if you plan to take courses or programs in Colombia
• Partner or Business Owner Visa if you already own or plan to create a company
• Rentista or Pensionado Visa if you have steady income or a pension from abroad

The right immigration profile isn’t always the first one you considered. And if your goal is to stay in Colombia legally and long-term, the best visa isn’t always the most popular one.

In Summary

The Digital Nomad Visa in Colombia is still a valid option, but inadmissibility responses are increasing—and the reasons are not always clear or legal.

Remember:

• You can reapply, but doing so without a solid strategy may backfire.
• Accumulating inadmissibility responses can lead to a final denial.
• Having expert legal guidance is key to protecting your immigration record.

Do you have questions or have already received an inadmissibility notice?
Write to us.

At Nexo Legal, we help you apply with greater confidence—especially if you’re navigating the digital nomad visa Colombia process.