Working in Colombia

Working in Colombia is becoming increasingly attractive as word gets around about the country’s natural beauty, welcoming locals, and easy-going lifestyle. Despite political instability, Colombia has made impressive economic progress over the last 15 years.

The abundance of natural resources, the relative stability of the economy, the low cost of living and the country’s promotion of free-trade agreements have led to substantial foreign investment in recent years. As a major economy with a relatively stable outlook, Colombia is an attractive destination for foreign investors and entrepreneurs.

Expat entrepreneurs often find that starting a business is much less tedious than searching for a traditional job in Colombia. Entering the Colombian job market is often quite difficult for expats, although some knowledge of Spanish will make the process easier. Securing employment before arrival is uncommon.

Obtaining the necessary visas can be a lengthy and frustrating process as well. If a company wants to hire you, it will need to submit a document detailing the employment offer. Smaller companies may be reluctant to sponsor your visa.

Job market in Colombia

Due to the increase in tourism in the country and an increasing emphasis on locals learning English, a great many expats in Colombia work as English-language teachers. These jobs are plentiful and relatively easy for native speakers to secure. You can work in government-sponsored programmes, in language schools, or you can give private lessons. The pay tends to be relatively low, though. Many expats start off teaching in an effort to make connections and adjust to Colombian culture in a more relaxed environment.

Other positions can be found in industries such as information technology, tourism, mining and construction. The tech sector has been particularly strong. Expat job markets are primarily centred in Bogotá and Medellín, but you can find jobs nationwide.

Finding a job in Colombia

Finding a job in Colombia can be challenging before you arrive. Colombians traditionally value face-to-face contact, and many employers still prefer meeting prospective employees in person before making hiring decisions, although remote hiring has become more common in recent years. You can begin the process from home by making contacts via social media, professional networking sites and expat groups or forums.

Other expats may prove to be your most helpful resource in searching for opportunities, although job advertisements can also be found through community forums and online job boards. International sites like LinkedIn, Indeed and Glassdoor are quite popular in Colombia, as are local sites like Opcion Empleo and El Empleo.

Spanish fluency will be important when searching for a job on Colombian websites and local classifieds. Many employers won’t speak English either. Ensuring all necessary documents, including resumes, have been translated into Spanish is essential.

In some cases, starting a new business in Colombia may be easier than finding a traditional job. The country is actively promoting entrepreneurship and seeking foreign investment.

Visas and Permits in Colombia

Useful links

• El Empleo: Colombia’s Leading Job Portal
• Opcion Empleo
• Computrabajo
• Indeed Colombia
• Get on Board

Work culture in Colombia

Fostering good relationships with friends and colleagues is central to Colombian work culture. Inland cities such as Bogotá and Medellín are more formal in their work culture, while in coastal areas like Cartagena, locals have a more relaxed approach to business.

Attitudes toward time and punctuality vary across Colombia. In Bogotá and Medellín, punctuality is generally expected for business meetings. In coastal cities like Cartagena and Barranquilla, a more relaxed approach to timing is common, and meetings may start 15 to 30 minutes late. Don’t be offended if colleagues are not strictly punctual, as relationship-building often takes priority over rigid schedules.

Read more on Business Culture in Colombia.