Colombia Visa Requirements: A Guide to Obtaining a Visa or Residency

Colombia Visa Requirements: Colombia has become an attractive destination for expatriates, digital nomads, retirees, and investors due to its welcoming culture, affordable living, and beautiful landscapes. If you’re planning to stay in Colombia for an extended period, understanding the visa and residency options is essential. This guide covers the types of visas available, their requirements, and the process of obtaining residency in Colombia.

Types of Visas

Colombia offers three main visa categories:

1. Visitor Visa (V-Type)

This visa is designed for short-term stays and covers a variety of purposes:

• Tourism: Allows stays up to 90 days, extendable by an additional 90 days.
• Business: For attending conferences, meetings, or conducting short-term business activities.
• Cultural or Academic Events: For participation in artistic, cultural, or academic events.

2. Migrant Visa (M-Type)

The Migrant Visa is ideal for individuals seeking mid- to long-term residency. Common subcategories include:

• Work Visa: For those employed by a Colombian company.
• Retirement Visa: For retirees with a stable pension income (minimum 3x the Colombian minimum wage).
• Marriage or Partner Visa: For individuals married to or in a long-term relationship with a Colombian citizen.
• Investment Visa: For those investing in real estate or Colombian businesses (minimum $150,000 USD investment).
• Student Visa: For individuals enrolled in accredited educational institutions.

3. Resident Visa (R-Type)

This visa is for individuals seeking permanent residency in Colombia. Eligibility includes:

• Continuous residence in Colombia for at least 5 years with an M-type visa (or 2 years for certain categories like marriage visas).
• A qualifying investment of $200,000 USD or more in Colombian property or businesses.
• Being the parent of a Colombian child.

Steps to Apply for a Colombian Visa

1. Determine the Appropriate Visa
   
   • Identify the visa type that aligns with your purpose for staying in Colombia.
2. Gather Required Documents
   
   • Passport valid for at least 6 months.
   • Completed visa application form.
   • Passport-sized photo.
   • Supporting documents (e.g., proof of income, relationship certificates, employment contracts, or investment documentation).
3. Apply Online
   
   • Submit your application through the official Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
   • Pay the application fee (varies depending on the visa type).
4. Attend an Interview (if required)
   
   • Some visa types may require an interview at a Colombian consulate or migration office.
5. Receive Your Visa
   
   • Approved visas are usually sent via email. You can print it or have it added to your passport.

Residency in Colombia

Temporary Residency

Temporary residency is typically granted under an M-Type visa. Holders of these visas can renew them as long as they continue to meet the criteria.

Permanent Residency

Permanent residency is granted under the R-Type visa. The benefits include:

• Unlimited renewals.
• Freedom to work or start a business in Colombia.
• No requirement to maintain a specific visa category.

To maintain permanent residency, you must visit Colombia at least once every two years.

Key Considerations

Visa Extensions

• Tourist visas can be extended for an additional 90 days, for a total stay of 180 days per calendar year.
• Extensions must be requested online or at a Migración Colombia office before your current visa expires.

Income Requirements

• For retirement visas, the minimum monthly pension must be at least three times the Colombian minimum wage.
• For work visas, proof of employment and income sufficient to sustain living costs in Colombia is required.

Legal Assistance

While the visa process is straightforward, hiring a lawyer or visa facilitator can help ensure a smooth application process, especially for more complex cases like investment or business visas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for a Colombian visa while in Colombia?

Yes, you can apply for many visa types while in Colombia, provided your current visa or entry permit is valid.

How long does it take to process a visa?

Processing times vary but typically range from 5 to 15 business days. Complex applications may take longer.

What are the fees for Colombian visas?

Visa fees depend on the type and nationality of the applicant. Fees generally range from $50 to $300 USD.

Can I work in Colombia with a tourist visa?

No, working on a tourist visa is prohibited. You must apply for an appropriate work visa.

Does owning property in Colombia grant residency?

Owning property does not automatically grant residency, but a significant investment ($150,000 USD for an M-Type visa or $200,000 USD for an R-Type visa) can qualify you for an investment visa.

Can I start the visa process from my home country?

Yes, most visa applications can be initiated online through the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or at a Colombian consulate in your home country.

Conclusion

Obtaining a visa or residency in Colombia is a structured process with clear requirements and pathways for foreigners. Whether you’re moving to Colombia for work, retirement, or investment, understanding the visa categories and their benefits will help you make the most of your stay. With the right preparation, you can enjoy the rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and warm hospitality that Colombia has to offer.

For any visa or residency process, we recommend you work with a trained professional. Although it is possible to complete these processes on your own, any small error in paper work can have your application denied, which can set you back months to years, not to mention potentially thousands of dollars. Become one of our directory members, and you will receive access to all of our user recommended and widely trusted visa/residency experts that can guide you through the process. You will also gain access to our network of verified real estate agents and other professionals recommended by expats just like you and verified by our team. We make no commission on any work done by the professionals in our network, and none of the individuals or businesses listed have to pay to be recommended by us. 

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Use our database to find visa facilitators, real estate agents, and recommended professionals. You will also have the ability to book a time to meet with our expats on the ground. These are individuals just like you who have gone through the immigration process and have been living in your desired country or city.

During these sessions, you can discuss every small detail related to the moving process. It’s like having a trusted friend everywhere you go. Whether you want to plan a short trip, need help finding an apartment, or you want some advice on moving to a particular city, they can help. This is a great way to meet someone with a similar background to help you achieve any of your goals.