If you plan to move to Colombia, you must apply for a migrant visa. The process can seem daunting, but with our step-by-step guide, you can obtain your Visa in no time. This article will cover everything you need to know about applying for a Colombian migrant visa.
Understanding the Colombia Migrant Visa
The Colombia Migrant Visa is a type of Visa that allows foreigners to live and work in the country for an extended period. This Visa suits individuals who plan to work, study, retire, or invest in Colombia. Colombia is a beautiful country with a rich culture, friendly people, and a booming economy. It is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and delicious cuisine.
If you are considering applying for a Colombian migrant visa, it is essential to understand the different types of visas available and their eligibility criteria. This will help you determine which Visa is best suited to your needs.
Types of Colombian Migrant Visas
For foreigners who have incorporated a Colombian company or have acquired shares in the capital stock of a Colombian company in operation. This visa allows you to accumulate time for the Resident Visa.
Requirements
Copy of your passport.
Last entry stamp (if, by the time of the application, the foreigner is still in the country).
Communication issued by the Department of International Exchange of the "Banco de la República" stating the registration of the foreign direct investment of one hundred (100) current legal monthly minimum wages in Colombia (116,000,000.00 COP) that equals approximately $25,000.00 USD as of 2023.
Company Share Composition certificate signed by a licensed accountant.
Bank statements of the last three months before the visa application.
International Health Insurance with coverage in Colombia.
The individual who creates or acquires a participation in the capital stock of a commercial company in operation this visa will have a work permit exclusively applicable in the company of which he is a partner, shareholder, or owner.
This visa allows its main holder to request a visa for beneficiaries: spouse or permanent partner; children up to 25 years of age; or child with a physical or mental disability.
Important:
The acquisition of shares in the public stock market does not qualify for this type of visa.
For the foreigner who intends to practice a regulated profession or, exceptionally, an unregulated activity, provided that the activity is of interest to the country. This visa allows you to accumulate time for the Resident Visa
Requirements
A letter stating the occupation or activity that you intend to carry out in the country in the exercise of your profession.
Copy of the validation of the professional title and prove compliance with the additional requirements for the exercise of the profession in accordance with current laws, including the presentation of the professional card, license or provisional permit granted by the corresponding professional association or council.
Bank statements of the past 6 months show an average monthly income of 5 current legal monthly minimum wages (5,800,000.00 COP) that equals approximately $1,300.00 USD as of 2023.
International Health Insurance with coverage in Colombia.
For activities based on professional experience but not academic training, documents or certifications supporting suitability and experience must be provided.
This visa grants a work permit exclusively for the position, entity, profession or activity for which it was granted.
This visa allows its main holder to request a visa for beneficiaries: spouse or permanent partner; children up to 25 years of age; or child with a physical or mental disability.
To the foreigner who has made a Foreign Direct Investment or has acquired real estate in his own name and maintains said investment or acquisition during the validity of his visa. This visa allows you to accumulate time for the Resident Visa.
Requirements
In the case of Foreign Direct Investment, provide a communication issued by the International Exchange Department of Banco de la República stating the registration of foreign direct investment in your name whose amount exceeds six hundred and fifty (650) legal monthly minimum wages ($754,000,000.00 COP) that equals approximately $160,000.00 USD as of 2023.
In the case of property investment, the interested party must provide the Certificate of Tradition and Freedom of the property whose domain ownership is exclusively in the name of the foreigner, for a minimum value equivalent to three hundred and fifty (350) current legal monthly minimum wages ($406,000,000.00) that equal approximately $87,000.00 USD as of 2023 and communication issued by the Department of International Exchange of the Bank of the Republic stating the registration of the investment for the purchase of the property in the name of the foreigner applying for the visa.
Bank statements of the previous 3 months
International Health Insurance with coverage in Colombia
Important:
When this visa is requested for the second and subsequent times, the foreigner must demonstrate that he maintained the investment or possession of the property during the entire validity of his previous visa.
This visa allows its main holder to request a visa for beneficiaries: spouse or permanent partner; children up to 25 years of age; or child with a physical or mental disability.
For foreigners who are married to a Colombian citizen and aspire to live effectively with their Colombian spouse in the country. This visa allows you to accumulate time for the Resident Visa
Requirements
Copy of your passport
Last entry stamp (if, by the time of the application, the foreigner is in the country)
Apostilled Marriage certificate if the marriage was abroad and duly registered in Colombia or an Authentic Copy of the civil registry of marriage if the marriage was celebrated in Colombia
Application letter signed by the Colombian spouse, in which they request the visa for the foreign spouse
Special power of attorney to request this type of visa
Certificate of migratory movements of the foreigner and their Colombian spouse
This visa grants an open work permit and allows its holder to carry out any lawful activity in the national territory.
This visa allows its main holder to request a visa for beneficiaries: spouse or permanent partner; children up to 25 years of age; or child with a physical or mental disability.
For nationals of the States parties to the "Agreement on Residence for nationals of the States Parties to Mercosur," in applying the principle of reciprocity. This visa allows you to accumulate time for the Resident Visa
List of Mercosur Countries:
Argentina
Brazil
Paraguay
Uruguay
Venezuela*
Associated States:
Bolivia**
Chile
Ecuador
Guyana
Peru
Surinam
*Venezuela is suspended in all the rights and obligations inherent to its status as a State Party of MERCOSUR, in accordance with the provisions of the second paragraph of the Article 5 of the Protocol of Ushuaia.
**The Plurinational State of Bolivia is in the process of accession.
Requirements
Passport with a minimum validity of six (6) months.
Residence document if you are in a country other than your nationality at the time of applying for the Visa.
Visa application letter explaining the activity that will be carried out in Colombia and your means of subsistence for your stay.
Duly Apostilled Certificate of criminal or police records issued by the authority of the country where you have stayed during the last three (3) years.
Recent Digital Photo, in color and with a white background.
This visa will be valid for 2 years and is granted only once, it also grants an open work permit and allows its holder to carry out any lawful activity in the national territory.
This visa grants an open work permit and allows its holder to carry out any lawful activity in the national territory.
This visa allows its main holder to request a visa for beneficiaries: spouse or permanent partner; children up to 25 years of age; or child with a physical or mental disability.
For foreigners who are parents or children of a Colombian citizen by adoption. This visa allows you to accumulate time for the Resident Visa
Requirements
Copy of your passport
Last entry stamp (if, by the time of the application, the foreigner is in the country)
Authentic copy of the public deed, judicial order or conciliation act; or certificate of union when applicable. The date of formalization of the document that supports the de facto union/Civil union must be greater than one (1) year at the time of the visa application.
Application letter signed by the Colombian spouse, in which they request the visa for the foreign spouse.
Special power of attorney to request this type of visa.
Certificate of migratory movements of the foreigner and their Colombian spouse.
This visa grants an open work permit and allows its holder to carry out any lawful activity in the national territory.
This visa allows its main holder to request a visa for beneficiaries: spouse or permanent partner; children up to 25 years of age; or child with a physical or mental disability.
For foreigners who are parents of a citizen who is Colombian by birth. This visa allows you to accumulate time for the Resident Visa
Requirements
Copy of the first page of your passport
Copy of the last entry stamp
Copy of the Colombian birth certificate of the child
Visa application letter
Certificate of migratory movements of the father and mother of the minor issued by the Colombia Migration Special Administrative Unit
Demonstrate economic solvency through averages in bank statements of the last 6 months and source of income
This visa grants a work permit exclusively for the position, entity, profession or activity for which it was granted.
This visa allows its main holder to request a visa for beneficiaries: spouse or permanent partner; children up to 25 years of age; or child with a physical or mental disability.
For foreigners who have a de facto union/Civil union with Colombian citizens. This visa allows you to accumulate time for the Resident Visa
Requirements
Copy of your passport
Last entry stamp (if, by the time of the application, the foreigner is in the country)
Authentic copy of the public deed, judicial order or conciliation act; or certificate of union when applicable. The date of formalization of the document that supports the de facto union/Civil union must be greater than one (1) year at the time of the visa application.
Application letter signed by the Colombian spouse, in which they request the visa for the foreign spouse.
Special power of attorney to request this type of visa.
Certificate of migratory movements of the foreigner and their Colombian spouse.
This visa grants a work permit exclusively for the position, entity, profession or activity for which it was granted.
This visa allows its main holder to request a visa for beneficiaries: spouse or permanent partner; children up to 25 years of age; or child with a physical or mental disability.
For foreigners with Academic training like masters, doctoral or post-doctoral level in basic or applied sciences, engineering, mathematics, and the like of these, whose profiles meet the priorities required by the country in its public and private internationalization plans; or for professionals in areas pre-established by the Directorate of Immigration, Consular Affairs and Citizen Services, whose professions contribute to the adoption and/or adaptation of technologies that strengthen the country's competitiveness.
Requirements
Copy of your passport
Last entry stamp (if by the time of the application, the foreigner is still in the country)
Graduate professional title apostilled or legalized and translated.
Motivation letter from the University, research center or company in Colombia sponsoring the foreigner
Contract with the academic institution, Government entity or company.
In the case of internationalization programs established by the national government, comply with the profile and requirements established therein.
International Health Insurance with coverage in Colombia
This visa allows its main holder to request a visa for beneficiaries: spouse or permanent partner; children up to 25 years of age; or child with a physical or mental disability.
For nationals of the States parties to the "Agreement on Residence for nationals of the States Parties to Mercosur," in applying the principle of reciprocity. This visa allows you to accumulate time for the Resident Visa
Requirements
Copy of the administrative act by which the refugee status in Colombia is recognized
Visa application letter signed by the foreigner
Be the holder of a valid passport or travel document
This visa grants an open work permit and allows its holder to carry out any lawful activity in the national territory.
For the foreigner with a constant monthly income derived from a pension granted by a State or a private pension fund. This visa allows you to accumulate time for the Resident Visa
Requirements
Copy of your passport
Last entry stamp (if by the time of the application, the foreigner is still in the country)
Certification of the monthly payment of a lifetime pension in an amount not less than USD 800
Certificate of criminal or police record issued by the country's authority where you have stayed during the last three (3) years.
International Health Insurance with coverage in Colombia
Medical certificate issued by the Colombian authority or by a medical health center of the country of origin to prove the psychophysical fitness of the petitioner.
IMPORTANT: The certificate of criminal records and your pension will require an Apostille; Apostilles authenticate the seals and signatures of officials on public documents issued by a federal agency or certified by a foreign consul. An apostille certifies the document(s), so the document can be recognized in foreign countries.This visa allows its main holder to request a visa for beneficiaries: spouse or permanent partner; children up to 25 years of age; or child with a physical or mental disability.
This visa allows its main holder to request a visa for beneficiaries: spouse or permanent partner; children up to 25 years of age; or child with a physical or mental disability.
For foreigners to whom the Colombian State has recognized the status of a stateless person. This visa allows you to accumulate time for the Resident Visa
Requirements
Official document in which the Colombian Government recognizes the foreigner as a stateless person
Demonstrate that you are in the country regularly or attach a valid Permanence safe-conduct issued by the Colombia Migration Special Administrative Unit that certifies the regular immigration status.
This visa allows its main holder to request a visa for beneficiaries: spouse or permanent partner; children up to 25 years of age; or child with a physical or mental disability.
For foreigners who aspire to work in Colombia with a legal entity through an employment contract. This visa allows you to accumulate time for the Resident Visa
Requirements
Contract summary - Format Contract signed by the legal representative of the employer and by the foreigner. In this document, the contracting party must record the details that determine the work activity in Colombia.
Letter of motivation from the employer Stating the suitability, functions to be carried out, the training that the foreigner has for this occupation, the reasons why a Colombian citizen is not hired for said activity, and the number of direct jobs that the company generates.
Certifications or bank statements from the employer For the last four (4) months showing an average monthly income of one hundred (100) current legal monthly minimum wages (116,000,000.00 COP)
In the case of an unregulated profession Provide a copy of the apostilled or legalized and translated professional title or labor and experience certifications that support their suitability
When it comes to a regulated profession The foreigner and the company or legal entity that hires must process the corresponding permit or license before the competent professional counsel.
This visa grants a work permit exclusively for the position, entity, profession or activity for which it was granted.
This visa allows its main holder to request a visa for beneficiaries: spouse or permanent partner; children up to 25 years of age; or child with a physical or mental disability.
Required Documents For The Migrant Visa:
When applying for a Colombia migrant visa, you must provide several documents to support your application. Specific documents for each Visa type will vary, however these documents are required on almost every application.
A copy of your passport.
You will need to provide a clear and legible copy of your passport.
Last Entry Stamp
A scanned copy of the last Last entry stamp in your passport (if, by the time of the application, you are in the Colombia)
Proof of health insurance:
You must have health insurance that covers you during your stay in Colombia.
Payment of Visa Fees:
You will need to pay the visa fees before submitting your application.
Digital passport-sized photographs:
Photographs must meet the Colombian visa photo requirements. (White background / 3cm of width X 4cm of height)
Financial documentation such as bank statements or employment letters:
You must provide evidence of your financial solvency to cover your living expenses in Colombia.
To avoid delays or rejection, you must ensure that you have all the necessary documents before submitting your application.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Colombia Migrant Visa
Applying for a migrant visa can be daunting, but this step-by-step process should help.
How to obtain a Colombian Migrant Visa
Step 1: Online Application Process
The first step in applying for a Colombian migrant visa is completing the online application form. The form is available on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. It is essential to fill out the form accurately to ensure the application process is completed on time.
Step 2: Paying the Visa Fee
You will need to pay the visa fee when you submit your application. The fee varies depending on the type of Visa. However, you typically spend around $326 USD for the Colombian Migrant Visa application.
It is essential to check the fee schedule before submitting your application to ensure that you have enough funds to cover the fee.
Step 3: Respond to Follow Ups
After submitting your visa application, there are a few things you can do to ensure a smooth and stress-free process. One of the most important things is to keep track of your application status and respond to any follow-up questions or documentation requests the Cancilleriá may have. Staying attentive will help you stay informed and prepared for any updates or changes that may occur.
Step 4: Tracking Your Application Status
Tracking the status of your visa application is easy and can be done online. Simply visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website and enter your application number and other relevant details.
Communication from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will come via email, including requests for additional information.
However, in between communication, their website will provide updates on the status of your application.
It is important to note that processing times may vary depending on the consulate or embassy where you submitted your application. However, based on your case, the website will provide an estimated processing time.
"We have seen that the average time it takes to receive a decision from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is 2-3 weeks. However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs can take up to 30 calendar days to respond to your application."
Daniela Cordoba
Lead Attorney, Colombian Visa Services
Step 5: Receiving Your Visa
Once your visa application is approved, you will receive your electronic Visa within a few days, depending on the processing time at the consulate or embassy. It is important to double-check all the details on your Visa to ensure they are correct and up-to-date. This includes your name, passport number, and visa type.
It is important to note that after 2020, Colombia no longer offers a physical visa stamp. Your visa will come in the form of an email, and this electronic document is what you will show immigration when you enter the country.
If you lose your electronic visa or accidentally delete it, you can request a new one by contacting the Ministry of Foreign affairs.
Step 6: Entering Colombia with Your Migrant Visa
When you arrive in Colombia, you must present your passport and electronic visa to immigration officials. The officials may ask you some questions about the purpose of your visit and accommodation plans. It is important to answer these questions truthfully and accurately.
Once you have cleared immigration, you can explore all Colombia has to offer. From the vibrant cities to the stunning natural landscapes, Colombia is a country that has something for everyone.
Renewing or Changing Your Migrant Visa
If you need to extend your Visa we recommend starting the process 2-3 months before your visa is due to expire.
The renewal process is similar to the initial application process, and you will need to provide supporting documents to show that you still meet the eligibility criteria.
"It's important to remember that the visa renewal process is not guaranteed. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has the right to ask for additional documentation and may reject the renewal if they feel criteria is not met,"
Daniela Cordoba
Lead Attorney, Colombian Visa Services
Changing Your Visa Type
If you need to change your visa type, submit a new application form and provide the required supporting documents. Changing your visa type is the equivalent of applying for a visa for the first time.
It is best to consult an immigration lawyer to determine the best visa category for your situation.
In conclusion, applying for a Colombian migrant visa can seem overwhelming, but it is straightforward when you know what to expect. Following this guide and providing all the required documentation can increase your chances of a successful application.
Daniela Cordoba is a lawyer specializing in immigration and commercial law. Daniela Cordoba has helped individuals and businesses live and operate in Colombia for over a decade. She also has training in compliance with the respective accreditations to serve as Compliance Officer.
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