Colombia is changing its immigration laws to attract foreign talents
The Colombian government will implement a new immigration law starting October 20 to attract foreign talents looking for a new place to live.
According to a report, the government will introduce new visa types, visa processing changes, and stricter requirements for certain visa holders.
For one, a digital nomad visa will be made available to foreign nationals who want to live and work remotely in Colombia for up to two years, provided that they pay income taxes if they stay in Colombia for more than 183 days.
Meanwhile, an internationalization promotion visa will be offered for foreign nationals who hold a STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) degree or in any other related fields that could strengthen Colombia’s competitiveness.
Colombian authorities will also introduce visitor visas for seasonal agricultural workers and will amend visa requirements for journalists and other industry-related workers.
While all the new visas are only valid for two years, recipients can extend them for two more.
Persons working for a foreign company without a presence in Colombia are preferred under the program. Those who plan to launch a digital startup are also eligible to obtain a digital nomad visa.
The Colombian government reportedly passed the new provisions in their immigration law with hopes of attracting foreign talent to the country while also protecting local workers.
