Colombia VAT Rate 2026: 19% Standard Rate

How Much Is VAT in Colombia?

The standard VAT rate in Colombia is 19% in 2026, plus reduced rate of 5% on certain goods and services. It applies to most goods and services sold in Colombia. Standard VAT/GST rates worldwide range from around 5% to 27%.

How to calculate Colombia VAT

To add 19% VAT to a net (tax-exclusive) price, multiply it by 1.19. To remove VAT from a gross (tax-inclusive) price, divide it by 1.19.

• Add VAT: COP 100 net × 1.19 = COP 119 gross (that is COP 19 of VAT)
• Remove VAT: COP 119 gross ÷ 1.19 = COP 100 net (that is COP 19 of VAT)

Use the Colombia VAT calculator above for any amount, or compare Colombia with every other country in our VAT rates by country table.

Current VAT Rates

Historical VAT Rate Changes

• 2026: Current standard rate in force
• 2017: Standard rate raised to 19%
• 1975: VAT (IVA) introduced

Economic Impact

VAT contributes approximately 20-30% to Colombia's total tax revenue. The current rate structure balances revenue generation with economic competitiveness within the Americas region.

Zero-Rated Items

The following items are zero-rated for VAT in Colombia:

• Exports of goods and services
• International transportation
• Some basic food items
• Children's clothing
• Books and newspapers
• Prescription medications

VAT Exempt Items

The following are exempt from VAT in Colombia (no VAT charged, no input VAT recovery):

• Financial services
• Insurance services
• Healthcare and medical services
• Education and training
• Postal services
• Charitable activities

Reduced Rate Applications

Items subject to reduced VAT rates in Colombia:

• 5% rate: Certain foods, agricultural inputs and private health plans

Colombia bases VAT registration on UVT thresholds; smaller taxpayers may fall outside the común VAT regime. Always confirm current thresholds and deadlines with the DIAN, as they are reviewed periodically.

VAT Registration

• Registration Threshold: Based on UVT limits
• Voluntary Registration: Available below threshold
• Registration Process: Online via tax authority website
• Processing Time: Typically 2-4 weeks

VAT Returns and Payment

• Filing Frequency: Bi-monthly or four-monthly
• Filing Deadline: End of month following period
• Payment Methods: Bank transfer, online payment
• Late Filing Penalties: Varies by amount and delay

Cross-Border Trade

Special considerations for international transactions:

• Intra-EU Trade: Not applicable (non-EU country)
• Imports: VAT payable at point of entry
• Exports: Generally zero-rated
• Digital Services: Special rules may apply

For background on how the buyer accounts for VAT on intra-EU and cross-border B2B supplies, see the reverse charge mechanism. For B2C digital sales and low-value imports, see VAT on digital services and cross-border e-commerce.

Nearby Countries

What is the current VAT rate in Colombia?

The standard VAT rate in Colombia is 19% as of 2026. This applies to most goods and services unless they qualify for reduced rates or exemptions.

How do I calculate VAT in Colombia?

To add VAT: multiply the net amount by 19%. To remove VAT from a gross amount: divide by 1.19. Use our calculator above for instant results.

Who needs to register for VAT in Colombia?

Colombia bases VAT registration on UVT thresholds; smaller taxpayers may fall outside the común VAT regime.

Can I reclaim VAT in Colombia?

VAT-registered businesses can generally reclaim input VAT on business purchases. Non-EU tourists may claim VAT refunds on qualifying purchases when leaving the country — see our guide to VAT refunds for tourists and non-resident businesses.