No, a visa itself does not provide medical policy. The visa requires the applicant to purchase and maintain a specific type of private medical policy (Travel Health Policy) to be approved. This requirement ensures the foreigner is prepared for any medical eventuality upon entry.

Visa health policy refers to a specific private policy required for most Colombian visa applications, as mandated by Resolution 5477. This policy is required to cover “all risks” in the national territory, including accidents, illness, death, and repatriation, serving as legal proof that the applicant can manage health emergencies during their stay.

If you are a tourist or visa applicant, you can purchase a private Travel Health Policy online (e.g., EG Assist) using your valid passport. If you are a long-term resident, you must report your documentation (such as the Cédula de Extranjería) to an EPS provider to secure mandatory national coverage

The cost varies greatly by type of plan. Mandatory public health insurance (EPS) contributions are 12,5% per month for the minimum declared income.

For the Visa-Compliant Health Policy required for long-term stays, the EG Assist Health Policy EG Visa Protect plan is the most affordable option, starting at US$495 annually (before discount). This equates to approximately US$41,25 per month (with annual payment), depending on the plan type and chosen payment frequency. This rate is highly competitive and provides mandatory visa compliance, specialized coverage, and immediate access to private healthcare services.

Eligibility for private health policy in Colombia is generally based on the individual’s legal documents (like a passport) and their physical presence in the country, not on holding a US visa. Eligibility for the mandatory public EPS system is based on obtaining a long-term Colombian visa.

Yes, foreigners have two primary options for obtaining health coverage:

• You can purchase Private/Travel Health Policy (like EG Assist) with a valid passport before arriving or upon applying for a visa. This coverage is mandatory for visa applications.
• Once you obtain a long-term visa and residency status, you are generally required to affiliate with the national EPS (Public Health System).

Digital nomads must have a health policy with all-risk coverage valid for the Digital Nomad Visa application. The insurance term must be the same as the visa, and the coverage will provide the necessary medical services.

A pre-existing condition refers to any illness, injury, or medical condition that you had or received treatment for before the start date of your health policy. The look-back period for pre-existing conditions can vary depending on the health policy plan and provider. It’s crucial to review your specific policy’s terms and conditions to understand how far back a pre-existing condition is considered. Generally, this period can range from a few months to several years.

Health policy typically covers a wide range of expenses, including most doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, preventive care, and medical equipment. However, it usually does not cover elective or cosmetic surgeries, beauty treatments, off-label use of medications, or cutting-edge technologies.

Yes, absolutely. Travel medical policy can provide essential coverage for unexpected medical emergencies or illnesses that may occur while you’re abroad. It can help cover costs such as hospital stays, doctor visits, prescription medications, and even emergency medical evacuation. Without it, you could face significant financial burdens.