A Guide to Buying Property in Colombia as a Foreigner

Buying property in Colombia as a foreigner is more straightforward than most expect. Here is the process, start to finish.

You have full ownership rights

Colombia grants foreign nationals the same property-ownership rights as its citizens — freehold title, in your own name or through a company, with no residency or visa required to purchase.

The purchase process

A typical acquisition moves through a promesa de compraventa (promise of sale, often with a deposit), the signing of the escritura pública before a notary, and registration of the deed at the public registry. Due diligence on clean title, liens, taxes, and permits is handled by your attorney.

Register your foreign investment

Funds brought in should be registered as foreign investment with the Banco de la República, which protects your right to repatriate capital and gains in the future.

Costs to budget

Transaction costs typically run a few percent of the price; annual property tax (predial) is modest. See the full breakdown of taxes and costs →

Closing from abroad

Most buyers grant a local attorney a limited power of attorney, allowing the purchase to close without being physically present. Read the full ownership guide →