In 2023 both Colombia and Peru have become considerably riskier for prospective permanent‑residence investors, primarily because of rising safety concerns and increasingly stringent residency requirements.
Colombia – escalating crime linked to scopolamine
- Scopolamine (“burundanga”) incidents have surged, with reports of thieves—often posing as attractive women—spiking drinks in bars or using powdered forms in public spaces.
- Victims are drugged, become compliant, and are then forced to assist thieves in stealing personal belongings, sometimes being taken to hotels or rentals to conceal the crime.
- Local authorities are overwhelmed by the volume of cases, and assistance for victims can be limited.
- The threat is not confined to nightlife; street‑level attacks with powdered scopolamine have also been reported.
These developments have turned Colombia, once considered a “back‑pocket” residency option, into a location where personal safety is a significant uncertainty, especially during the first two quarters of 2023.
Peru – political unrest and public‑order challenges
- Widespread protests against the government have escalated, prompting frequent advisories for foreign nationals to leave the country.
- The U.S. Travel Advisory rates Peru at Level 3 (Reconsider Travel), indicating heightened risk.
- Large police and military deployments are common in major cities, yet incidents of chain‑snatching and street robbery continue in broad daylight.
- The fluid security situation means that even areas with visible security forces do not guarantee safety for residents or travelers.
Given the ongoing unrest, Peru’s environment for new residents is currently unstable, particularly in the early part of 2023.
Residency program considerations
| Country | Typical pathway | Minimum residency before citizenship | Notable requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colombia | Purchase of property (“golden visa”) → residency | 5 years | Property investment; ties to the country are evaluated; not a simple automatic route. |
| Peru | Tax residency → permanent residency → citizenship | 2 years | Must establish tax residency; stricter residency criteria than Colombia; no “back‑pocket” shortcut. |
Both programs now face tighter scrutiny, and the added safety risks diminish their attractiveness for investors seeking a low‑risk relocation.
Practical advice for 2023
- Delay applications for both Colombia and Peru until the security situation stabilizes, especially if planning to move within the first two quarters of the year.
- Monitor official travel advisories (e.g., U.S. Department of State) and local crime reports before committing to a residency investment.
- Consider alternative jurisdictions with more stable safety records and clearer residency pathways if immediate relocation is a priority.
While some individuals may still choose to accept the risks, the current environment in Colombia and Peru suggests that pursuing residency there in 2023 carries heightened personal‑security and procedural uncertainties.
