How to Enroll in the Public Healthcare System in Colombia

If you're planning to enroll in the public healthcare system in Colombia, this article covers the requirements for foreigners to be able enroll in the public healthcare system, the steps involved and more.

Obtaining residency Status in Colombia

• Determine the Appropriate Visa Type
  • Visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website to understand the different types of visas (M, R, V) and their requirements.
  • Choose the visa type that best suits your purpose of stay (e.g., work, study, investment, marriage).
• Gather Required Documents
  • Valid passport with at least six months validity remaining.
  • Passport-sized photographs.
  • Background check from your country of origin, apostilled or legalized.
  • Specific documents based on the visa type (e.g., work contract, marriage certificate, investment proof).
• Apply for a Visa
  • Visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website to start the online application process.
  • Fill out the application form and upload the required documents.
  • Pay the visa application fee.
• Register with Migración Colombia
  • Once your visa is approved, visit the Migración Colombia website to register and obtain your Foreign ID Card (Cédula de Extranjería).
  • Schedule an appointment for biometric registration.
• Apply for a Tax Number (NIT)
  • Visit the DIAN website (Dirección de Impuestos y Aduanas Nacionales) to apply for a NIT.
  • Fill out the RUT (Registro Único Tributario) form and submit it online or in person at a DIAN office.
• Enroll in the Health System
  • Choose a health insurance provider from the list of approved Entidades Promotoras de Salud (EPS).
  • Visit the EPS office to enroll and obtain your health insurance card.
• Open a Bank Account
  • Choose a bank that offers services to foreigners.
  • Visit the bank with your passport, visa, and Foreign ID Card to open an account.
• Renew Your Visa and Foreign ID Card
  • Visas and Foreign ID Cards are typically valid for a specific duration. Ensure you renew them before expiration.
  • Follow the same processes for visa application and registration with Migración Colombia for renewal.

Important Notes

All documents issued abroad must be apostilled or legalized and translated into Spanish by an official translator.

Always verify the latest requirements and procedures on the official websites of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Migración Colombia, and DIAN, as regulations may change.