Thriving as a Remote Worker in Medellín

Medellín, Colombia, is a vibrant city that has emerged as a favorite destination for remote workers worldwide. With its spring-like weather, affordable cost of living, and thriving expat community, Medellín offers the perfect environment for digital nomads. However, working remotely from abroad, especially in a country like Colombia, requires careful planning and an understanding of local regulations, visa requirements, and tax implications.

This guide will walk you through what you need to know to successfully work remotely from Medellín while maintaining your role in the US, Canada, UK, Australia, or Europe.

The Digital Nomad Visa: Your Gateway to Medellín

Colombia’s Digital Nomad Visa is designed for remote workers employed by foreign companies or self-employed individuals who earn income outside of Colombia. This visa is valid for up to two years, making it an excellent option for those looking to settle in Medellín for an extended period.

To qualify, you’ll need:

• Proof of employment with a foreign company or evidence of your freelance income.

• A monthly income equivalent to at least three times Colombia’s minimum wage (around $900 USD as of 2024).

While the application process is straightforward, consult with an immigration specialist to ensure your paperwork is complete and up-to-date.

Challenges with Remote Work Abroad

Before packing your bags, understand that not all remote roles allow international work. Many US-based companies, in particular, have policies restricting employees from working outside the country due to tax, legal, and data security concerns.

What Can You Do?

• Check Your Employment Contract: Confirm whether your role explicitly allows work from another country.

• Discuss With HR: If your contract doesn’t permit international work, you might negotiate an exception or transition to freelance work.

• Workaround Options: Use a VPN to maintain a connection to your home country, but proceed with caution and ensure compliance with local laws. Also, your run of the mill VPN is not going to work for this option. We have a contact who is very good at this.

Tax Implications of Working Abroad

Working remotely from Medellín doesn’t exempt you from tax obligations in your home country. Here are the basics:

• Home Country Taxes: US citizens, for instance, must file federal taxes regardless of where they live, though the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) may reduce your taxable income.

• Colombian Taxes: If you stay in Colombia for more than 183 days in a calendar year, you may become a tax resident. This could require declaring worldwide income, even if your earnings come from abroad.

Hiring an international tax advisor can help you navigate these complexities and avoid double taxation.

4. Remote Work Options: Finding Your Niche

Medellín’s time zone (similar to US Eastern Standard Time) makes it ideal for remote roles with North American or European companies. Below are some excellent remote work opportunities:

Freelance and Contract Work

Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal allow you to market your skills globally. Common roles include graphic design, writing, programming, and virtual assistance.

Remote Sales Work

If you have experience in sales, there are several that you can choose from. I had one on here, but I ended my association with them. There are several SDR roles available from solar sales, real estate and B2B.

Remote Customer Service

If you have experience as a Customer Service professional, there are several companies that will hire agents from anywhere in the world. The negative to this is that the salary tends to be lower in these roles.

Tech and Digital Careers

With growing demand for digital skills, jobs in SEO, coding, and digital marketing are increasingly popular. Consider platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or Codecademy to build expertise in these fields before making the leap.

Learning Skills for Location Independence

Acquiring in-demand, location-independent skills is crucial for remote work success. Here are three areas to focus on:

• SEO (Search Engine Optimization): Companies worldwide seek SEO specialists to improve their online visibility.

• Coding: Proficiency in languages like Python, JavaScript, or Ruby can open doors to lucrative roles in software development.

• Digital Marketing: Skills in social media management, content marketing, and email campaigns can make you a sought-after freelancer.

Many of these skills can be self-taught or acquired through affordable online courses.

The Importance of Earning in Dollars or Euros

One of the biggest financial advantages of working remotely in Medellín is the ability to earn in strong currencies like USD or Euros while spending in Colombian pesos. This “geo-arbitrage” allows you to enjoy a high quality of life at a fraction of the cost compared to cities in your home country.

Why Avoid Catering to Local Markets?
While it may be tempting to offer services like English tutoring or consulting to Colombian clients, local wages are typically much lower. For the best financial outcomes, prioritize foreign clients or companies.

Building a Remote-Work Lifestyle in Medellín

Beyond securing your job, adjusting to Medellín’s culture and infrastructure is key to thriving as a remote worker:

Coworking Spaces

Medellín boasts numerous coworking spaces tailored to digital nomads, such as Selina and local favorites like Tinkko. These provide reliable internet, networking opportunities, and a productive work environment. This is also a great place to meet others that may have more experience here as a Digital Nomad.

Socializing and Networking

Join expat groups on Facebook, attend meetups, or participate in language exchanges to build your social circle. Popular events like the Medellín Entrepreneurial Meetups also connect you with like-minded professionals.

Critical Planning Before the Move

While Medellín offers many opportunities, moving without a solid plan can lead to unnecessary stress:

• Secure Employment First: Ensure you have a stable remote job or freelance clients before relocating.

• Establish a Financial Cushion: Save enough to cover at least six months of living expenses as you transition.

• Research Healthcare: Colombia offers excellent healthcare, but purchasing private insurance ensures comprehensive coverage.

Medellín is a fantastic destination for remote workers, but success here depends on preparation and clear goals. By earning in dollars or euros, acquiring location-independent skills, and understanding the logistical and financial implications of working abroad, you can enjoy the benefits of this dynamic city while thriving in your career.