Retire in Colombia vs Turkey: The 2026 Freedom Comparison

Geo-arbitrage is the strategy of earning a strong currency (like USD or EUR) while living in a country with a lower cost of living. In 2026, this is the fastest way to achieve FIRE, allowing you to reduce expenses by 40-60% without lowering your quality of life.

The Freedom Clock calculates your exact 'Freedom Date' based on your savings, income, and the real-time cost of living in your target country. It accounts for 2026 inflation rates and tax laws to give you a precise timeline for early retirement.

It allows remote workers to stay for up to 2 years. You must earn 3x the minimum wage, roughly $1,100 USD/month.

Medellin is very popular, but safety has declined in some areas. Expats should stick to 'Estrato 5 or 6' neighborhoods for better security.

Residents (183+ days) are taxed on worldwide income, but the nomad visa allows you to work for foreign firms without local tax for a period.

In 2026, a high-end 1-bedroom in El Poblado or Laureles ranges from $1,000 to $1,500 USD per month.

Colombia has some of the best-ranked hospitals in Latin America. Private 'Medicina Prepagada' is affordable and high quality.

A Colombian ID card for residents. You need it for cell phone plans, gym memberships, and local bank accounts.

Yes, fiber optic is common in major cities, though stability can vary in more rural or mountainous regions.

Foreigners can drive for the duration of their tourist stay, but residents must obtain a Colombian license.

Medellin is the 'City of Eternal Spring' with year-round mild weather; Bogota is cooler, and the coast is hot and humid.

You can apply for renewal online through the Cancilleria portal before your current visa expires.

Applicants must be aged 21–55, have a university degree, and earn at least $3,000 USD/month ($36,000 USD/year).

It is issued for 1 year and can be renewed if the income and remote work conditions still apply.

Major cities and coastal towns are generally safe, though it is wise to monitor regional stability and avoid border areas.

If you stay 183+ days, you are a tax resident. However, those providing specific digital services (software/design) to foreign clients may get an 80% tax exemption.

Private healthcare (e.g., Acıbadem, Memorial) is world-class and very affordable. Private insurance is required for the visa.

Despite high inflation, foreign currency earners find life very affordable. $1,500–$2,000 USD/month provides a high quality of life.

Fiber is common in Istanbul, Izmir, and Antalya. 5G rollout is expanding, though rural speeds can vary.

The real estate investment required for citizenship remains at $400,000 USD as of early 2026.

Yes, the nomad visa allows for dependents, but each must meet individual health insurance requirements.

The Turkish residence card. It is essential for banking, hospital visits, and domestic travel within Turkey.