Decision 3 · Week 3 · Wed Nov 18 · Country spotlight: Colombia
Is it safe to retire in Colombia?
SHORT ANSWERIt depends on where in Colombia. The US State Department rates the country Level 3, Reconsider Travel, and marks several regions Level 4, Do Not Travel. Most retirees live in specific city neighborhoods the national rating cannot describe.
Advisory levels run from 1 (normal precautions) to 4 (do not travel). When we checked in October 2026, the Level 4 areas were Arauca, Cauca except Popayán, Valle del Cauca except Cali, Norte de Santander, and within 10 km of the Venezuelan border.
Safety is lived at the neighborhood level: where you live, how you get around, and who you know. Many people visit before committing and rent before buying.
Apply the same test to where you live now. Staying put has its own risks.
Week 3 compares safety and governance alongside cost and health care.
Sources
- Colombia Travel Advisory · US Department of State
Written and reviewed by Todd Allyn, Founding Director, Sovereo Intelligence
Facts checked Oct 6, 2026 · Next review by Dec 31, 2026
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