How does health insurance work in Colombia for expats?
Colombia has an excellent healthcare system ranked #22 globally by the WHO - above the US, Canada, and Australia. Here's how it works for expats:
Overview of the System:
Colombia has a dual healthcare system:
- EPS (Entidades Promotoras de Salud) - Public/mandatory insurance
- Prepagada - Private supplemental insurance
EPS - Public Health Insurance:
What is it?
Colombia's mandatory public health system. All residents with visas over 180 days must enroll.
Cost:
12.5% of your declared monthly income. For self-employed expats:
- Declare income of ~$700/month = ~$87.50/month
- Many retired couples pay $70-85/month total
Coverage includes:
- Doctor visits
- Specialist consultations
- Hospitalization
- Surgery
- Lab work and imaging
- Emergency care
- Most medications (low copays)
- Maternity care
Limitations:
- Wait times for specialists (days to weeks)
- Need referral from GP for specialists
- Limited English-speaking staff
- Facility quality varies
How to enroll:
- Get your cedula de extranjeria (foreigner ID)
- Visit EPS provider office (Sura, Sanitas, Nueva EPS, etc.)
- Complete enrollment forms
- Start paying monthly premium
- Coverage typically begins immediately
Prepagada - Private Insurance:
What is it?
Supplemental private insurance that works on top of EPS. Provides premium care access.
Cost:
$180-325 USD/month depending on age and coverage level.
Benefits:
- Same-day or next-day appointments
- Direct specialist access (no GP referral needed)
- Private hospital rooms
- English-speaking doctors more common
- Surgery approval in 48 hours (vs weeks with EPS)
- Better facilities and amenities
Important:
You must have EPS to get prepagada - they work together.
Age limitation:
Most prepagada plans won't accept new enrollees over age 60. However, "Plan Complementario 60 Plus" options exist for older applicants.
Popular providers:
- Colsanitas
- Sura
- Allianz
Which Should You Choose?
| Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Budget-conscious, healthy | EPS only |
| Want fast access, comfort | EPS + Prepagada |
| Over 60, new to Colombia | EPS + international plan |
| Short-term stay (<6 months) | International travel insurance |
For Visa Applications:
All visa types require proof of health insurance valid in Colombia. Options:
- EPS enrollment certificate (if you already have it)
- International health insurance (for initial application)
- Prepagada certificate
Costs Without Insurance:
Even without insurance, Colombian healthcare is affordable:
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| GP visit | $20-40 |
| Specialist visit | $40-80 |
| Blood work | $15-30 |
| MRI | $150-300 |
| ER visit | $50-150 |
Quality of Care:
- Modern hospitals in Medellin and Bogota
- Many doctors trained in US/Europe
- Medical tourism destination
- Excellent dental care
- World-class cosmetic surgery industry
Top Hospitals:
- Fundacion Santa Fe (Bogota)
- Hospital Pablo Tobon Uribe (Medellin)
- Clinica Las Americas (Medellin)
Colombia's healthcare is a major draw for expats - you get excellent care at a fraction of US costs.
Immigration Information Disclaimer
This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws change frequently. Always consult a qualified immigration attorney for advice specific to your situation.