Colombia has been a popular choice among tourists and ex-pats looking for a country to retire in because of its friendly locals, ideal weather, various activities, and affordable cost of living. The Colombia Retirement Visa offers a unique opportunity for individuals seeking a peaceful and vibrant retirement in one of South America’s most captivating countries.
As you embark on this exciting journey, you must familiarize yourself with the various requirements associated with the visa application process. One crucial aspect that demands careful attention is insurance coverage.
This comprehensive guide delves into everything you need about insurance for the Colombia Retirement Visa. We will explore the specific types of insurance typically required, coverage criteria, and the importance of meeting these requirements.
Insurance Requirements for Colombia Retirement Visa
Foreigners or expats applying for a Colombian retirement visa should have health insurance. Colombian retirement visa applicants are typically required to show proof of health insurance coverage during their stay in the country. This ensures that individuals can access medical care and won’t burden the Colombian healthcare system.
The specific coverage requirements can vary, but it often includes medical emergencies and hospitalization coverage. Private health insurance plans are usually accepted, and applicants should ensure that their insurance policy meets the minimum coverage requirements set by the Colombian authorities.
On rare occasions, other retirement visa providers require applicants to submit proof of their travel insurance accompanied with medical coverage. It should cover their stay’s initial period. Travel insurance with medical coverage provides temporary coverage until they can obtain local health insurance.
The duration and specific coverage requirements for travel insurance can vary based on individual circumstances and visa categories.
Insurance Options for the Colombia Retirement Visa
There are two main insurance options when applying for the Colombian Retirement Visa. These are private insurance and the ASSIST card. Let’s differentiate the two below:
Private Insurance
EPS Colombia is an integral part of Colombia’s public health system and is a mandatory requirement for all Colombian citizens. EPS consists of organizations that offer medical services, and individuals enroll in EPS to access healthcare in clinics and hospitals.
One of the biggest private insurance providers partnered with Angela Berrio Seguros is SURA. SURA operates within Colombia’s healthcare system and offers health insurance coverage and services to individuals and families.
The key features of SURA include the following:
Health Insurance Coverage: SURA provides health insurance coverage for various medical services, including doctor consultations, hospitalization, surgeries, medications, laboratory tests, and preventive care.
Network of Healthcare Providers: SURA has an extensive network of healthcare providers, including hospitals, clinics, laboratories, and specialists, across Colombia. This network allows its members to access healthcare services within a designated network of providers.
Patient Services: SURA aims to provide a seamless experience for its members by offering various patient services. These services can include appointment scheduling, pre-authorization for medical procedures, online access to medical records, and a customer service helpline to address queries and concerns.
Regulatory Compliance: SURA operates under the regulations of the Colombian Ministry of Health and the Superintendence of Health. They must meet specific standards and guidelines to ensure the quality and accessibility of healthcare services for their members.
However, one thing you must know about private insurance in Colombia is that it only covers individuals until the age of 69. You need alternative health insurance if you’re applying for a Colombian Retirement Visa after you are 69. This is where the ASSIST Card becomes useful.
ASSIST Card
The ASSIST Card is your second option for health insurance. One main benefit of this option is that there’s no age limit. When your SURA expires because you turned 70, you can apply for an ASSIST card instead. However, you must know that it has more limited coverage. Moreover, the ASSIST card only covers accidents and emergencies.
How to Get Retirement Visa Insurance
The process and requirements for obtaining retirement visa insurance in Colombia may vary according to the insurance provider you hire. You will see various options when looking for one online, but we highly recommend Angela Berrio Seguros.
Angela Berrio Seguros is an insurance agent backed by SURA. The main goal of her services is to offer comprehensive insurance services for locals and foreigners who need assistance securing the most suitable insurance protection while residing in Colombia.
Angela Berrio Seguros has more than a decade of experience in the insurance industry. And she is part of a professional team that can provide optimal coverage options at competitive rates, depending on your needs.
Moreover, you can choose from a wide variety of insurance types and plans Angela Berrio Seguros offers. Here are some key aspects of our insurance services:
Personal Insurance:
- Health Insurance: We provide comprehensive health insurance plans tailored to meet your needs, ensuring access to quality healthcare services.
- Life Insurance: Our life insurance policies offer financial protection to you and your loved ones in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
- Auto Insurance: We offer vehicle coverage, protecting them against accidents, theft, and damages.
- Property Insurance: Our property insurance policies safeguard your home, ensuring protection against risks such as fire, natural disasters, and theft.
Business Insurance:
- Commercial Property Insurance: We offer coverage for commercial properties, including buildings, equipment, and inventory.
- Liability Insurance: Our liability insurance protects your business from potential legal claims and associated expenses.
- Business Interruption Insurance: We provide coverage to mitigate financial losses during unexpected interruptions to your business operations.
- Professional Indemnity Insurance: This coverage is designed to protect professionals against claims arising from errors or negligence in their professional services.
Personalized Approach:
- We understand that each client’s insurance needs are unique. Our dedicated team takes the time to assess your specific requirements and provides personalized advice to help you make informed decisions.
- We work with multiple insurance providers, allowing us to compare policies and find the most suitable coverage options at competitive rates.
Excellent Customer Service:
- At Angela Berrio Seguros, we prioritize exceptional customer service. Our team is committed to providing prompt and reliable assistance, addressing your inquiries, and guiding you through the insurance process.
Ongoing Support:
- We believe in building long-term relationships with our clients. Our services extend beyond policy acquisition, as we offer ongoing support, including claims assistance and policy reviews, to ensure your coverage remains up-to-date and relevant.
Whether you need insurance for yourself, your family, or your business, Angela Berrio Seguros is dedicated to finding the right insurance solutions to protect what matters most to you.
Wrapping Up: Get Started With Retiree Insurance in Colombia
Proper health insurance is essential when you want to retire in Colombia and apply for a retirement visa. Make sure to look for a trusted private insurance provider who can guarantee a seamless application. Submit all documents you need, and you should be right on track.
Angela Berrio Seguros is a reputable insurance agent and provider specializing in prioritizing the client’s needs. Contact her today to get started on your retiree insurance.