Foreign Investment
Investing in Colombia
Colombia is one of the largest economies in Latin America and one of the most open to foreign capital. But getting off to a good start depends not only on opportunity—it depends on how the investment is structured from day one.
Why
Colombia
Preferential market access
Colombia has trade agreements in place with the United States, the European Union, the Pacific Alliance, and more than sixty countries. A business operation in Colombia serves as a platform, not just a local market.
Tax Incentives
Free trade zones offer a preferential income tax rate for qualified users, as well as exemptions from customs duties and VAT on goods brought into the zone. In addition, there are tax incentive regimes for sectors the country seeks to promote, such as hospitality and tourism, renewable energy and the creative economy.
Treatment of Foreign Investors
Colombian law guarantees equal treatment for domestic and foreign investors, as well as the right to remit profits abroad. Colombia is also a party to a network of international agreements on the reciprocal promotion and protection of investments, which supplement the protections provided by domestic law.
Time Zone and Talent
Colombia is in the same time zone as the U.S. East Coast, with no daylight saving time, and has talent hubs in Bogotá, Medellín, Barranquilla, and Cali.
How we
Work with you
The firm's practice areas cover the entire journey of a foreign investor, from market entry to dispute resolution.
1. Enter
Structuring Market Entry: corporate vehicles and branches; private equity and venture capital fund structures to and from Colombia; registration of foreign investment; and corporate and tax structuring of the transaction.
2. Operate
Hiring, employee onboarding, real estate and leases, tax compliance, and relations with regulatory agencies. Onboarding new investors and investment rounds.
3. Protect
Investment protection structures, private wealth and succession planning, and visas and residency for executives and their families.
4. Resolve
Commercial and corporate disputes, domestic and international arbitration, and representation in matters involving tax and foreign exchange authorities.
Let's talk
Are you considering Colombia?
Tell us what you're considering, and we'll explain—with no obligation—what the legal implications are.