Colombia Travel Health Insurance: A Guide for Expats and Nomads

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Unlock the ultimate peace of mind with comprehensive Colombia Travel Health Insurance options, expertly designed for expats and digital nomads. Dive deep into essential coverage details, explore top-rated providers like EG Insurance and master the process of accessing high-quality medical care abroad. Prioritize your health and enjoy your journey with confidence!

Colombia, a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality, beckons expats and digital nomads with its vibrant cities, stunning natural beauty, and affordable cost of living. However, amidst the excitement of planning your adventure, one crucial aspect often overlooked is ensuring adequate Colombia Travel Health Insurance. Unexpected medical emergencies or even routine health concerns can arise, and without the right travel health insurance, you could face significant financial burdens that could derail your dreams, and peace of mind.

It’s not just about choosing the right health insurance policy but also about understanding how medical assistance works within travel health insurance, what it covers, and how to access urgent medical care during your stay in Colombia. With this guide, you will not only discover the best options but also understand them in depth for your peace of mind when visiting Colombia or applying for a Colombian visa.

What is Travel Health Insurance in Colombia?

To understand how travel health insurance in Colombia works, it’s essential to know what it means for you, whether you’re an expat, visitor, tourist, or someone applying for a Colombian visa. Therefore, Travel health insurance in Colombia is a specialized type of insurance policy designed to cover medical expenses incurred while traveling within the country.

These policies typically cover a range of medical needs, including emergency medical care, hospitalization, doctor’s visits, prescription medications, medical evacuation, and repatriation. However, it’s worth noting that the level of coverage and specific benefits can vary significantly depending on the insurance provider and the chosen plan.

Reviewing travel health insurance policies for Colombia is crucial, which is why everyone should pay close attention to coverage limits, exclusions, and provider networks to ensure peace of mind and access to quality care during your trip or extended stay. Choosing the right plan is essential, and we can guide you to choose the best insurance providers and the most accurate coverage for your needs.

Medellin Guru Insurance Service

The insurance agency we partnered with meets the requirements for Colombian Visa Applications

Why is Health Insurance Crucial for Expats in Colombia?

It’s crucial for every visitor or expat to understand the significance of having travel health insurance when planning a trip to Colombia. Firstly, travel health insurance is often a mandatory requirement for obtaining a Colombian Visa, as it serves as proof of coverage needed for certain visa applications, ensuring safety during your journey or relocation to Colombia and even increasing the chances of approval for longer visa stays, due to having an appropriate insurance policy. This requirement is documented in Resolution 5477, which emphasizes the importance of having proper health insurance in place.

Travel insurance with health coverage: Private insurance policy with coverage in the national territory against all risks in case of accident, illness, maternity, disability, hospitalization, death, or repatriation.
Resolution 5477, Chapter 1, Article 3

Secondly, as a tourist visiting the country, it’s ideal to be prepared in case of any risks that you might face entering Colombia due to potential health risks that exist anywhere. Unexpected illnesses or injuries can occur, and seeking medical treatment without insurance in a foreign country can lead to substantial expenses. Having comprehensive travel health insurance ensures you’re covered for emergencies and routine care, safeguarding your finances and peace of mind.

Finally, obtaining adequate travel health insurance is not just a prudent choice for visitors to Colombia but also an essential safeguard for your well-being. Prioritizing your health ensures you can fully enjoy your Colombian experience, confident that you have access to the country’s robust healthcare system, including its leading hospitals and the benefits offered by EG Insurance in the event of a medical emergency.

What Must Travel Health Insurance Cover During Your Stay In Colombia?

When planning a trip to Colombia, ensuring that you have the right travel health insurance is important. Here are the key aspects your travel health insurance should cover during your stay, following the guidelines indicated in Resolution 5477, whether you are a tourist or a Colombian visa applicant.

Emergency Medical Expenses:

Your insurance must cover medical emergencies, including hospital stays, accidents, illnesses, surgeries, and treatments.

Repatriation:

In the unfortunate event of death or in a extreme case where you must return your country , your policy should include this vital item for your peace of mind and your relatives.

All Risks:

This clause in your travel health insurance policy ensures comprehensive protection against unforeseen events that may lead to accidents or illnesses during your stay in Colombia.

Death Coverage:

Many travel health insurance plans offer a death coverage, which provides a lump-sum payment to your designated beneficiaries in the event of your death while covered by the policy.

Maternity:

Maternity coverage in travel health insurance typically covers medical expenses related to pregnancy and childbirth that occur while the policyholder is traveling. It’s crucial to carefully review the terms and conditions of a travel health insurance policy to understand the extent of its maternity coverage, if any.

Disability:

Disability coverage in travel health insurance typically provides benefits if you become disabled due to an accident or illness that occurs during your trip.

Pre-existing Conditions:

Colombia is introducing stricter visa requirements for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, similar to the United States. While the law doesn’t explicitly state health-related ineligibility, some cases are deemed high-risk, requiring applicants to submit detailed medical documentation to support their visa applications. It’s important to ensure you are protected, considering everything that surrounds your health and safety.

By securing travel health insurance that includes these essential coverages, you can enjoy your stay in Colombia with peace of mind. Furthermore, Colombian EPS (Entidades Promotoras de Salud) may not always offer all the benefits required when applying for a Colombian visa, making them ineligible as a valid health policy when submitting your application. Therefore, whether you are seeking a Colombian visa or traveling as a tourist, having the most suitable travel health insurance that meets all these requirements will always be the best, easiest, and least complicated option, as you can see next:

Why Choosing a Travel Health Insurance in Colombia than enrolling EPS?

While Colombia’s national healthcare system, Entidades Promotoras de Salud (EPS), offers comprehensive coverage to residents, it may not be the ideal solution for short-term visitors, expats in the process of obtaining residency, or digital nomads. Several key distinctions make travel health insurance a more suitable choice for these groups.

In the first case, it’s important to mention that if you’re in the process of applying for a Colombian visa that requires mandatory proof of health coverage, you must be aware that enrolling to an EPS and presenting it as your health insurance is not valid and this could result in denials or delays in your visa approval. While it’s true that after your visa approval, you may choose an EPS, there are several reasons to consider opting for travel health insurance in Colombia from an international and reputable insurer for your visa application, which can also benefit tourists who want to fully enjoy the country with the support of reliable service.

Portability:

This is a significant advantage. Travel health insurance plans are designed to provide coverage across different geographical locations. This is crucial for individuals who frequently travel within Colombia or internationally. EPS, on the other hand, is typically tied to a specific region within Colombia, potentially limiting access to care when traveling outside that area.

Access To A Wider Network of Providers:

Including private hospitals and English-speaking doctors, is often a feature of travel health insurance. EPS primarily operates within the public healthcare system, which may have longer wait times for certain procedures and fewer English-speaking medical professionals. For those unfamiliar with the Colombian healthcare system or who prefer private care, travel health insurance offers greater flexibility and convenience.

Coverage for Travel-Related Emergencies

It is a standard component of most travel health insurance policies. This includes benefits like emergency medical evacuation, repatriation, death coverage, and trip cancellation or loses, which are not typically included in EPS plans. These protections offer invaluable peace of mind for travelers who may face unexpected events.

Ease of Enrollment and Shorter Waiting Periods:

Obtaining EPS requires residency and can involve a more complex enrollment process. Travel health insurance, in contrast, can usually be purchased quickly and easily online, providing immediate coverage.

Customization of Coverage:

Travel health insurance plans offer a range of options, allowing individuals to select coverage limits and benefits that align with their specific needs and budget. EPS provides a standardized level of coverage that may not be tailored to the unique circumstances of short-term visitors or those with specific healthcare needs (pre-existing conditions) preferences and needs.

Why is EG Insurance the Best Health Coverage for Expats in Colombia?

When considering health insurance options as an expat in Colombia, several providers offer comprehensive coverage tailored to international travelers and residents. However, we aim to provide you with a definitive solution to offer you the best travel health insurance in Colombia, the most reputable and with the best coverage: EG Insurance, known for its comprehensive, visa-compliant plans and a range of services designed.

Here we show you a detailed table where you’ll see how convenient is to acquire EG Insurance:

Coverage Component	Legal Requirement (Resolution 5477)	EG Insurance: Enhanced Protection
Visa Compliance	A private policy covering “all risks.”	Guaranteed 100% compliance with all requirements for M-Type and V-Type visas.
Emergency Medical	Mandatory coverage for accident, illness, hospitalization, and surgery.	Higher Coverage Limits that significantly exceed the minimum requirement, protecting you in top-tier private hospitals.
Repatriation	Mandatory inclusion of repatriation for remains or medical needs.	Comprehensive, hassle-free coordination of repatriation logistics included in all plans.
Duration of Policy	Must cover the required period of your visa application.	Flexible terms (e.g., up to 2-year policies) designed to align with residency and renewal cycles.
Pre-Existing Conditions	No explicit minimum stated in the law, but may be scrutinized by the Ministry.	Specific benefits available (details vary by plan) for emergency care related to pre-existing conditions.
Network & Access	Must provide coverage in the National Territory.	Priority access to a vast private network, often including bilingual support in major expat cities.

In order to make you feel more confident and to understand why EG Insurance is the best travel health insurance for expats in Colombia, it’s important to mention some additional information to help you make informed decisions:

EG Insurance
EG Insurance is designed specifically for long-term expats, digital nomads, investors, retirees, and permanent residents living in Colombia, providing comprehensive coverage tailored to meet visa requirements and everyday healthcare needs. It benefits a wide range of clients, including students without proof of status and individuals across all age groups, with competitive pricing and extensive coverage options, including specialized plans depending on your residency status or investment in Colombia.

Unlike some providers that focus solely on emergency care, EG Insurance offers policies designed to provide comprehensive protection. These plans give you access to the robust private healthcare network, which typically includes faster service and direct access to various medical services (please consult your specific policy for detailed coverage, including specialist consultations and routine appointments). This ensures broader protection and peace of mind during your stay.

How to Get Travel Health Insurance in Colombia?

Each insurance provider offers different advantages, conditions, and coverage options, making it essential to assess your specific needs and understand any limitations before making a decision.

To navigate the various policies and ensure you select the best option, we recommend reaching out to us. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the most comprehensive assistance available. We can help you compare the features of different insurers, clarify any complex terms, and guide you in selecting a plan that suits your individual needs and lifestyle.

Book a free appointment for Insurance Coverage

Explore comprehensive health insurance coverage, under the EG Insurance plans , designed to guarantee visa compliance and provide peace of mind in Colombia

How to Access Medical Care in Colombia?

Having the appropriate travel health insurance from EG Insurance simplifies the process of accessing medical care in Colombia. EG Insurance’s dedicated support assists with navigating the healthcare system, overcoming language barriers through access to private networks, scheduling appointments, and locating hospitals or medical centers you may need during your visit. This ensures you receive the best possible care while giving you peace of mind that you are not alone in dealing with any unfortunate situations that may arise.

To ensure you receive comprehensive coverage and assistance, always follow the official protocol when accessing medical care with EG Insurance.

EG Insurance

It is essential to follow the indicated procedure to ensure coverage and receive the necessary assistance. The most crucial step is always to contact EG Insurance.

Here are the steps to follow to access medical services in Colombia with them:

First

Immediately Contact EG Insurance Assistance

Contact the EG Insurance Assistance Center as soon as you require help, whether for emergencies or routine medical support. Professional agents are available 24/7 to guide you through the necessary next steps and coordinate care.

Second

Provide your Information

When reaching out to the Assistance Center, have the following ready for faster processing:

- Full name of the policyholder
- Policy/voucher number
- Contact phone number
- Reason for your emergency and your current location

Third

Authorization and Validation

Always request authorization from the EG Insurance Assistance Center before incurring expenses or receiving treatment, except in acute emergencies. This step is vital to guarantee your expenses are covered and your claim is processed efficiently.

Fourth

In Case of an Emergency

If facing an immediate, serious health risk:

Go directly to the nearest hospital or clínica.
Notify the EG Insurance Assistance Center within 72 hours of the incident, either personally or through a close contact, to ensure coverage per your plan’s guidelines.

Fifth

Always Review Plan Conditions

Keep your General Conditions booklet handy and consult it regularly to stay informed about reporting requirements and coverage limits. Some incidents must be reported within specific timeframes (24–72 hours). You can download or review the General Conditions directly on the EG Insurance website.

Sixth

Contact Channels

WhatsApp or international call: Use the dedicated help line published in your EG Insurance documentation.
Email: Write to the EG Insurance support mailbox, available 24/7 for urgent matters.

What Else to Consider When Choosing Travel Health Insurance?

When planning your adventure in Colombia, selecting the right health insurance plan is crucial to ensure you are well-covered during your stay. Here are some additional key factors to consider that can help guide your decision:

Emergency Guides:

Having a comprehensive emergency guide is an essential aspect of your travel health insurance plan. This guide should provide you with vital information that can help you navigate any medical emergencies you may encounter while traveling in Colombia, and you can find it next:

Duration of Stay

The length of your trip plays a significant role in determining the best health insurance for you. If you’re a digital nomad planning to stay for several months, look for plans that offer extended coverage. Short-term travelers may opt for more basic plans, but be sure they still provide ample protection for emergencies.

24/7 Customer Support

Access to customer support is essential, especially in emergencies. Look for providers that offer 24/7 customer service, ensuring you can reach someone whenever you need assistance. English-speaking services are particularly important for expats and travelers who may not be fluent in Spanish. Having a support team that understands your language can alleviate stress and help you navigate any issues that arise.

Customer Reviews and Insurer Reputation:

Research the insurer’s reputation and read reviews from other travelers. This can give you insights into their reliability and service quality.

By taking these additional factors into account, you can select a health insurance plan that fits your specific needs and ensures a safe, worry-free experience in Colombia. Prioritize your health and peace of mind so you can focus on enjoying all that this beautiful country has to offer!

Book a free appointment for Insurance Coverage

Explore comprehensive health insurance coverage, under the EG Insurance plans , designed to guarantee visa compliance and provide peace of mind in Colombia

Medellin Guru's Colombian insurance and healthcare articles

Medellin Guru's comprehensive visa and passport series

The Colombian visa changes that went into effect in October 2022 were significant. So, on the Medellin Guru site, we have a comprehensive series of visa articles that are kept up-to-date and should answer most visa questions. These articles include:

We have looked in detail at the nine most popular Colombian visas used by foreigners:

Also, we have looked in detail at three additional Colombian visas, which are less popular for foreigners:

Rentista visa (annuity visa) – for foreigners with a fixed income
Beneficiary visa – for relatives of visa holders
Expertise visa – for professionals

In addition, we have a guide to Colombia tourist visas and how to extend a tourist visa. Also, we have a guide to renewing U.S. passports in Colombia and a guide to obtaining a Colombian passport.

Furthermore, we provide information about travel insurance that meets the insurance requirement for Colombian visas. And we have a guide to how apply for a cedula extranjeria in Colombia and a guide to using notaries in Medellín and Colombia. Finally, Medellin Guru has partnered with a visa agency to offer Colombia visa services.

All of our Colombia visa articles are up to date (2024) and constantly receive updates in 2025.

The Bottom Line: Colombia Travel Health Insurance: A Guide for Expats and Nomads

For expats and digital nomads traveling to Colombia, securing adequate travel health insurance is essential. Beyond being a mandatory requirement for certain visas as mandated by Resolution 5477, it also provides critical protection against unforeseen medical expenses and facilitates access to Colombia’s high-quality healthcare system during your stay.

To ensure a smooth, worry-free experience in Colombia, choosing a trusted, legally compliant provider like EG Insurance, whose plans include comprehensive coverage for emergency medical costs, repatriation, pre-existing conditions, and other critical areas required by Colombian authorities. Additionally, EG Insurance offers expert guidance and support throughout your stay, from visa application to medical care access, giving you peace of mind and confidence to enjoy all that Colombia has to offer.