Do I need Health Insurance When Moving to Colombia?

When planning a move to Colombia as an expat or digital nomad, understanding the healthcare system and insurance requirements is crucial. Colombia requires foreigners applying for a visa with a duration of more than three months to have international health insurance that covers medical and hospital care. The policy must be valid for the duration of your stay, with no exclusions for pre-existing conditions, and should provide coverage of at least USD 35,000. Additionally, the insurance must cover repatriation and medical evacuation. Once you become a resident, you will be required to enroll in the Colombian public healthcare system.

Does Expat Health Insurance Meet the Requirements?

Most expat health insurance plans should meet the requirements set by the Colombian government. However, it is essential to verify that your policy covers medical and hospital care, repatriation, and medical evacuation up to the specified minimum amount. Be sure to check that there are no exclusions for pre-existing conditions, as this could lead to complications during your visa application process. Always double-check the policy details with your insurance provider to ensure compliance with Colombian regulations.

Which Local Health Insurers Offer This Type of Insurance?

If you prefer to purchase local health insurance, several Colombian companies offer plans that meet the visa requirements. Some of the prominent local health insurers include SURA, Coomeva, Colsanitas, and Sanitas. These companies provide a range of health insurance plans, including those specifically designed for expats and foreigners. It is recommended to compare plans from different insurers to find the one that best suits your needs and budget. Keep in mind that premiums and coverage details may vary between companies.

Advice from Expats in Colombia about Health Insurance

Expats in Colombia often advise newcomers to carefully review their health insurance options before making a decision. It is crucial to ensure that your chosen plan covers medical and hospital care, repatriation, and medical evacuation to meet visa requirements. Additionally, consider factors such as the insurer's reputation, customer service, and the extent of their healthcare provider network. Many expats recommend opting for a comprehensive plan that offers direct billing with hospitals and clinics to avoid upfront payments. Furthermore, it is wise to choose a plan that provides coverage not only in Colombia but also during trips to other countries, ensuring continuous protection for digital nomads and frequent travelers.

Expats Talk about Health Insurance in Colombia

"Colombia is known for its high quality of private medical care and medical universities. Bucaramanga is well known for medical education and we have a plethora of hospitals and doctors. In my experience, prices are much cheaper here than the USA. eg. ACL surgery in the USA can run $60K to $80k, not including physical therapy. ACL surgery here is $5k including physical therapy," said one expat who moved to Bucaramanga, Colombia.

"You can choose any health Ins company you want here, at a very reasonable price. Sanitas was recommended to me many years ago and I love it. My ambulance ride last year (5 hours) Hospital stay, and open Heart Surgery cost me $1 USD for the co-pay and never a deductable here," mentioned one expat when asked about moving to Colombia.