The Rise of Medical Tourism in Colombia and the Importance of the Medical Treatment Visa

Colombia has become one of the most attractive destinations in Latin America for medical tourism. According to figures from ProColombia, the sector reached a value of USD 235 million in 2024 and is projected to grow to USD 287 million by 2027.

Cities such as Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali lead the reception of international patients seeking high-quality medical and aesthetic procedures at competitive prices. In the first months of 2024 alone, Bogotá received nearly 4,000 medical tourists, Cali more than 3,300, and Medellín more than 2,100.

The capital of Antioquia, in particular, has become a benchmark: in 2024 it treated more than 23,000 foreign patients, with sustained annual growth of 14% since 2010. Cali, for its part, has drawn up a strategic plan to become the national hub for medical tourism by 2027.

This phenomenon not only drives the country’s economy but also positions Colombia as a reliable and competitive international destination. Proof of this is that hospitals such as the Fundación Valle del Lili in Cali and the Fundación Santa Fe in Bogotá are ranked among the best hospitals in the world, according to Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals 2025.

Why apply for a medical treatment visa?

The growing flow of international patients brings with it a migratory reality that should not be overlooked. Many people arrive in Colombia with a simple tourist visa, without considering that medical treatments, especially surgical ones, require recovery and follow-up periods that exceed the 90 days allowed by this visa.

The medical treatment visa in Colombia is designed for these cases. It allows the patient to remain in the country for the necessary time to complete their procedure, medical check-ups, and any subsequent treatment.

The risks of entering only with a tourist visa

Entering Colombia only with a tourist visa for a medical procedure may bring complications:

• Insufficient stay: the time may not be enough for postoperative recovery or follow-ups.

• Legal problems: irregularly extending your stay may result in immigration sanctions.

• Lack of coverage: without the correct visa, some insurance policies or medical contracts may not provide full support.

  
  

Conclusion

Medical tourism in Colombia is a growing sector that combines medical excellence, first-class infrastructure, and competitive costs. However, those who travel for medical purposes must ensure that they comply with the appropriate immigration requirements.

The medical treatment visa not only offers legal peace of mind but also guarantees patients the necessary time to complete their process safely. If you are planning to come to Colombia for medical treatment or aesthetic surgery, contact us and we can assist you with your visa application.

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