Complete Guide on Colombian Visas for Foreigners [2024 Update]
Table of Contents
Introduction
Tourist Visa
Business Visa
Student Visa
Work Visa
Resident Visa (Migrant)
Marriage Visa
Retirement Visa
Renewal and Extensions
Special Temporary Visas (Digital Nomad)
Conclusion
Introduction
Navigating the landscape of Colombian visas in 2024 reveals a streamlined process designed to accommodate various travel purposes, including tourism, work and residency. The Colombian government offers multiple visa categories, each tailored to specific needs, such as the Tourist (T), Migrant (M), and Work (W) visas, for example. Recent updates emphasize digital application processes and shorter processing times, reflecting Colombia's commitment to enhancing accessibility for international visitors. Understanding these visa options is essential for anyone planning to visit, work, or live in Colombia, ensuring compliance with local regulations and a smooth entry experience. You will likely need a lawyer to help with any or all visas other than a Visitor visa because the Colombian government checks over every detail and a lawyer will help you make sure you aren’t missing anything! We have a trusted lawyer we use for everything and he specializes in all visas! Their information will be at the bottom if you would like to connect with them!
Tourist Visa
The most basic and what majority of visitors traveling to Colombia will obtain. This doesn’t require any special advance notice, but if you plan to do anything other than see the sights and enjoy the beautiful country for less than 90 days, than keep reading to see all the visa types! If you are visiting from the United States then you don’t need any special visa requiremnts. Other countries might require a visa to be applied for in advance, so check this document to see your countries’ eligibility. Tourist visas are typically granted to individuals intending to visit Colombia for leisure, tourism or recreational purposes. Nationals from many countries are exempt from needing a tourist visa for short stays. Tourist visas usually allow stays of up to 90 days, with the possibility of extending for an additional 90 days. Extensions must be requested before the initial visa expires. Tourist visa holders are permitted to engage in tourism-related activities but are not allowed to work or engage in any form of paid employment.
Business Visa
Business visas are intended for individuals traveling to Colombia for business-related activities, such as attending meetings, conferences, or exploring potential investment opportunities. Business visas are typically valid for multiple entries and allow stays of up to 180 days per year, with the possibility of extension.
Applicants for a business visa must provide documentation demonstrating the purpose of their trip and their ties to their home country. Business visa holders are permitted to engage in a wide range of business-related activities, including meetings, negotiations and market research, but are not allowed to undertake any form of employment.
Student Visa
If you plan to move here with your family and aren’t sure how to get your kids a visa because they don’t qulaify for any of the other visas mentioned, then this is a good option. There are many different types of schools in Colombia so the options are quite broad! Student visas are designed for individuals enrolled in educational programs in Colombia, including language courses, undergraduate, and graduate studies.
The duration of a student visa depends on the length of the academic program, with extensions available for longer courses of study. Applicants for a student visa must provide proof of enrollment in a recognized educational institution and demonstrate financial solvency. Student visa holders are permitted to study full-time in Colombia but are not allowed to engage in paid employment without obtaining additional authorization.
Work Visa
Work visas are granted to individuals who have secured employment with a Colombian company or who are self-employed and wish to conduct business in the country. This might the least common but if you get a job in Colombia, then this is the best option! The company should pay for the visa and all the fees that come along with it, which would be really nice! Work visas are typically valid for one year and can be renewed annually, subject to continued employment or business activities. Work visa holders are authorized to work in specific occupations for the sponsoring employer or as self-employed individuals in approved industries. The application process for a work visa involves obtaining a job offer or demonstrating sufficient financial resources for self-employment and submitting the required documentation to the Colombian immigration authorities.
Resident Visa (Migrant Visa)
For someone that is looking to live here for the foreseeable future and possibly get citizenship someday, this will be your only option! This used to be a 5 year visa but with the current president, Gustavo Petro, has changed it to what is now called a “Migrant visa” and is valid for 3 years and gives you a path to citizenship. After 3 years you can easily reapply for the same visa, and after 5 years of having this visa, you can apply for citizenship.
This rule could change with the next president as Petro set these new rules. The old resident visa was good for 5 years and allowed you to apply for citizenship following the visa expiration. The only thing that really changed is that you will have to reapply for the visa. I guess there are worse things! This visa also allows you to work in Colombia and earn money here as well and do things like open a bank account. There is another name for this visa that the last president had which was called an “investment visa.” This allowed people to buy a house or start a business here with the minimum threshold but didn’t have all the same benefits as the resident visa except for a path to citizenship. This visa also allows you to get a Cédula (green card) which enables you to get a bank account or set up your own internet, among many other things you will need if you intent to live here more permanently. Yes, you need a Cédula number to get internet in your house!
Gustavo Petro wanted to make it harder for foreigners to gain citizenship so he eliminated the investment visa and combined it with the resident, and is now called “Migrant visa.” Again, this could change with the next president, but for now this is the visa that grants you full access to the country! Most visas will require a lawyer to help you obtain it, especially this one. The application process is long and tedious and the lawyer will guide you through every detail, so you are guartenteed acceptence!
Marriage Visa
This visa is probably very similair the rules of your home country! Marriage visas are available to foreign nationals who are married to Colombian citizens or permanent residents. Applicants for a marriage visa must provide proof of their marital relationship, including marriage certificates and evidence of cohabitation. The application process for a marriage visa involves submitting the required documentation to the Colombian immigration authorities and attending an interview. Marriage visa holders are entitled to reside and work in Colombia for the duration of their visa, subject to certain conditions. If you have received this visa before, leave a comment about your experience at the bottom!
Retirement Visa
Retirement visas are available to individuals who meet certain age and income requirements and wish to retire in Colombia. In 2024, Colombia's Retirement Visa, classified under the Migrant (M) visa category, remains a popular choice for retirees seeking to enjoy the country's vibrant culture and favorable climate.
Applicants must demonstrate a stable monthly income, typically from a pension, meeting the minimum requirement set by the government, currently around three times the Colombian minimum wage. Read this document to see the minimum wages as of 2024. The application process has been streamlined with online submissions, reducing wait times. Successful applicants enjoy the benefits of long-term residency, access to healthcare, and the opportunity to explore Colombia’s diverse landscapes and communities.
Special Visas
Digital Nomad Visa - Colombia's Digital Nomad Visa continues to attract remote workers with its streamlined application process. This visa allows individuals to live and work in Colombia for up to two years, provided they can demonstrate a stable remote income. The process is entirely online, ensuring quick and efficient approvals. This visa doesn’t allow access to healthcare in Colombia and you must provide proof of your own healthcare to be granted this visa. You must also have proof your company allows you to work remotely.
Volunteer Visa - Colombia's Volunteer Visa, updated in 2024, allows individuals to engage in unpaid volunteer work for up to one year. Applicants must provide a letter from the host organization detailing their role and duration of stay. The visa process is now fully online, offering a quick and efficient way to contribute to Colombian communities.
Religious Visa - Colombia's Religious Visa, as of 2024, permits individuals to engage in religious activities within the country for up to two years. Applicants need a sponsorship letter from a recognized religious organization in Colombia. The application process is streamlined and conducted online, ensuring efficient handling and quicker approval times.
Renewal and Extensions
This will be similar to process of initially applying for it, but much more streamlined! Renewal of Colombian visas typically involves submitting updated documentation and paying applicable fees to the immigration authorities. The documents required for visa renewal may include proof of continued eligibility, such as employment contracts or enrollment in educational programs. Common pitfalls to avoid during the renewal process include missing deadlines, incomplete documentation and failure to maintain legal status. If you have all your details in order than there shouldn’t be any worry of getting denied! If they are willing to give it to you the first time then the second time should be a no-brainer!
Conclusion
An extensive guide on Colombian visas is essential for understanding the diverse options available to travelers, workers, retirees, volunteers and digital nomads in 2024. With the Colombian government's ongoing efforts to streamline processes and enhance accessibility, securing the appropriate visa has never been easier. Whether you're planning to explore Colombia’s rich cultural heritage, pursue remote work opportunities, volunteer in local communities, or retire amidst stunning landscapes, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the requirements and application procedures. Stay informed and prepared to ensure a smooth transition and a fulfilling experience in Colombia.
Lawyer Info: We use them for all of our needs here and trust them with everything!
Juan Jose Giraldo <jgiraldo@colombialawgroup.com>
FAQ’s
What are the main types of visas available for Colombia?
The main types of Colombian visas are Visitor (V), Migrant (M), and Resident (R). Each category caters to different purposes, such as tourism, work, study, retirement, volunteering, and religious activities.
How can I apply for a Colombian visa?
Applications for Colombian visas can be submitted online through the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The process involves filling out an application form, uploading required documents, and paying the applicable fee.
What is the processing time for Colombian visas?
Processing times vary depending on the visa type and individual circumstances. Generally, it takes between 5 to 30 business days or longer. The government has recently made efforts to reduce wait times through more efficient online processing.
Do I need a visa to retire in Colombia?
Yes. Depending on the country you are from the reason you are visiting, you will need a visa!
Can I work remotely in Colombia with a digital nomad visa?
Yes, the digital nomad visa allows remote workers to live and work in Colombia for up to two years. Applicants must demonstrate a steady remote income and submit their application online for a streamlined approval process.
