Thinking of making Colombia your home, or at least sticking around Medellín a bit longer than your tourist stamp allows? You’re not alone! Maybe you’re already soaking up the city vibes and wondering, “What’s next?” Or perhaps you’re mapping out your first big move and want the inside scoop before you pack your bags. Navigating Colombian visas can seem complicated, but don’t worry: whether you see yourself settling down, working remotely, launching a business, or chilling in retirement here in the “City of Eternal Spring,” this guide is your go-to for making the smartest visa choice for your Colombian adventure.
What Types of Colombian Visas Are Available?
If you meet the requirements, you can apply for many categories of Colombian visas, as long as you haven’t overstayed in the country or if you are abroad. This flexibility is a game-changer for many expats, digital nomads, professionals, students, and retirees who fall in love with Colombia and decide to extend their stay or even settle down for the long haul.
Think of this as a non-intimidating, practical starting point. It isn’t meant to replace professional immigration advice, but to give you clarity and confidence before you talk to an expert. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a much clearer idea of which Colombian visa types and categories—Visitor (V), Migrant (M), or Resident (R)- match people just like you, and what your next steps could look like. Your Colombian journey can start with a single click
Checklist: Is this you?
- You’re interested in legally extending your stay or changing your immigration status without leaving the country
- You want to align your life goals with official visa categories defined by Colombian law.
- You are thinking of Colombia as a destination for teleworking, business investment, retirement, education, religious activities, family reunification, or other long-term or temporary stays that align with Colombia’s visa options.
- You’re looking for information from the official source: Resolución 5477 de 2022.
Interesting Fact: Did you know that almost all visa procedures in Colombia can be initiated online and do not require you to return to your home country?
Suggested Visa Types and Terms
| Visa Type | Purpose | Maximum Validity |
|---|---|---|
Visitor (V) |
Tourism, remote work, studies, volunteer |
Up to 180 days |
Migrant (M) |
Work, investment, partner, pension |
Up to 3 years |
Resident (R) |
Long-term/permanent stay |
Indefinite. You must apply for a visa transfer to renew it every 5 years. |
Do I Have the Profile to Get a Visa for Investment in Colombia?
If you are an individual with capital and an entrepreneurial spirit, Colombia provides a strategic environment to grow your wealth, support the economy, and build a long-term future. Thanks to the legal framework defined by the Resolución 5477 de 2022, the country offers several pathways for foreign investors and entrepreneurs eager to make their mark.
The Colombia Business Owner Visa is specifically crafted for expats and business-minded newcomers determined to create jobs, contribute to local development, or invest in tangible assets like real estate. Whether your vision involves launching a new company, buying into an established business, exploring new markets, or securing property that meets the government’s required investment threshold, there is a visa designed for you.
On the other hand, the Real Estate Investment Visa offers several practical advantages. The application process involves submitting proof of property purchase, registration documents, and financial source verification, ensuring transparency and compliance with Colombian financial regulations. Importantly, the investment in real estate is seen by the Colombian government as a long-term economic commitment, which contributes significantly to local development and stability.
The goal of these visas is to ensure your investment supports Colombia’s economy while giving you legal security and, eventually, a path to permanent residency. Keep in mind that each visa’s requirements are precise, covering minimum investment amounts, business plans, or documentation of property purchase, so reviewing the official legal text and consulting with a local expert is always recommended.
Checklist: Is this you?
- You have capital available for investing in Colombia.
- You intend to purchase qualifying real estate or start/invest in a business.
- You wish to stay in Colombia long-term and satisfy the minimum official investment required by the law.
- You want legal certainty and potentially permanent status, according to Resolución 5477 de 2022
Interesting Fact: The type-V Colombia’s Market Research Visa offers a unique advantage: it allows foreign investors to legally establish their presence and conduct hands-on market research or feasibility studies before making larger financial commitments.
Suggested Visas for Investors – Requirements & Validity
| Visa Name | Key Requirements | Maximum Validit |
|---|---|---|
Real Estate Investor |
Purchase property valued at a minimum of approximately USD 125,000 (350 SMMLV); register investment with Banco de la República; provide an updated Certificate of Tradition and Freedom |
Up to 3 years. |
Business Owner/Entrepreneur |
Found or invest in a Colombian company with a minimum capital of approximately USD 36,000 (100 SMMLV); register investment with Banco de la República and Chamber of Commerce. |
Up to 3 years |
Market Exploration |
A business plan outlining market research, activities, and an estimated timeline; proof of financial solvency with a minimum monthly income of approximately USD 3,600 (10 SMMLV). |
Up to 1 year. |
What Visa Can a Professional Get in Colombia?
For professionals, skilled workers, and degree-holders seeking to build their careers in Colombia, the country’s immigration system offers a range of visas tailored to modern work realities. Whether you’ve secured a job with a Colombian employer, plan to offer independent services as a freelancer, or are living the remote “digital nomad” lifestyle, there is a visa option to fit your aspirations and working model.
Colombia recognizes the diversity of today’s workforce by supporting those working under a formal contract, temporary project, or online for companies abroad, ensuring there are both permanent and temporary pathways open to international talent. Understanding which visa profile matches your own goals and situation is crucial for a smooth application process, continued legal stay, and full compliance with Colombian law.
Checklist: Is this you?
- You have a confirmed job offer or employment contract from a company based in Colombia.
- You plan to freelance or consult for Colombian clients without a traditional employment relationship.
- You are coming to Colombia temporarily for a defined project or job assignment.
Interesting Fact: Colombia launched its official Digital Nomad Visa in late 2022, offering remote workers a streamlined process to live and work legally in the country for up to two years, including family accompaniment.
Can a freelancer get a Digital Nomad Visa?
If you’re the kind of person whose office can be anywhere with a solid Wi-Fi connection, the digital nomad profile is made for you. Your income must come entirely from outside Colombia, whether you’re a freelancer juggling international clients, a startup founder running your own business, or a remote employee for a global company. The key point is that you don’t have a Colombian employer and you’re not looking for one; you just want the freedom to live and work remotely from somewhere as vibrant as Medellín, with no need to jump through the hoops of traditional employment visas.
The Digital Nomad Visa has quickly become one of the most popular options for expats who crave flexibility and want to soak up city life, Colombian coffee, and eternal spring weather, without the baggage of local sponsorship or complicated bureaucratic hurdles
Checklist: Is this you?
- Who qualifies? Location-independent freelancers, entrepreneurs, and employees with contracts outside Colombia.
- Key difference: Income must come from abroad, notfrom Colombian-based employers.
- Ideal for: Those looking to experience life in Colombia without needing a local job.
Suggested Visas for Professionals– Requirements & Validity
| Visa Name | Key Requirements | Maximum Validity | |
|---|---|---|---|
Digital Nomad Visa |
Proof of remote work with foreign companies, partners, or as an entrepreneur; minimum monthly income of over USD 1,100 (approx. 3 SMMLV); valid passport; health insurance with all-risk coverage and repatriation. |
Up to 2 years. | |
Worker Visa |
Employment contract with a Colombian employer; employer must have a minimum income of USD 36,000/month (approx. 100 SMMLV); professional degree or experience certificates; health insurance. |
Up to 3 years | |
Freelancer Visa |
Proof of professional services for Colombian clients; minimum monthly income of USD 1,800 (approx. 5 SMMLV); validated degree or license to practice in Colombia; health insurance. |
Up to 3 years. | |
Temporary Worker Visa |
Temporary, occasional, or short-term work contract with a Colombian employer or for specialized technical assistance; employer must have a minimum income of USD 36,000/month (approx. 100 SMMLV); health insurance. |
Up to 2 years. |
What visa do I need to study or do an internship?
If your main objective in Colombia is academic development, whether it’s pursuing a university degree, taking language courses, or gaining work experience through a formal internship, there are specific visa pathways crafted just for you. This section is for everyone enrolled in recognized programs, either at universities, language schools, or engaged in research or academic exchanges.
The focus is on learning, research, or cultural enrichment, not employment or commercial work. The Resolution 5477 provides the official framework for these education-focused visas, ensuring students and interns from around the world can study, engage in research, or complete internships in Colombia legally and with peace of mind.
Checklist: Is this you?
- You are enrolled in or accepted by an accredited Colombian academic institution or language school.
- You have secured an official internship placement, approved as part of your academic training.
- You plan to participate in religious, cultural, or scholarly activities recognized by Colombian authorities.
- Your intended stay centers on education, skills development, or research—not paid employment.
Interesting Fact: Colombia’s vibrant academic life welcomes students and interns from every continent, making it a leading hub in Latin America for cultural exchange, research, and international education experiences
Suggested Visas for Students – Requirements & Validity
| Visa Name | Key Requirements | Maximum Validity |
|---|---|---|
Student Visa |
Enrollment in an accredited academic program |
Up to 2 years. |
Internship Visa |
Official internship placement with a Colombian institution |
Up to 1 year |
Can I get a visa through my partner, Colombian son, or for my family?
If your primary reason for wanting to live in Colombia revolves around your connection to family, you’ve found the right visa pathway. Colombia recognizes that family bonds are a fundamental part of one’s life and future, and the immigration system is designed to accommodate various family-related situations.
The family-oriented expat profile spans people who are married to Colombian citizens, those in formally recognized common-law partnerships, parents seeking to live near their Colombian children, and dependents of visa holders. These relationships form the basis for legal residency, reflecting Colombia’s commitment to keeping families together.
Whether you’ve married a Colombian citizen, live in a legal partnership, or are a parent or child of someone officially residing in Colombia, there are clear legal visa paths available. The Colombian government has established a multilevel framework to support family reunification, providing security and certainty for foreign relatives.
Checklist: Is this you?
- You are legally married to a Colombian citizen.
- You are in a legally recognized common-law partnership
- You are the parent of a Colombian child.
- You are a dependent child or parent of a principal visa holder.
Interesting Fact: Family-based visas do not just allow residence, they offer a path to permanent residency, often after just three years, reinforcing Colombia’s commitment to family unity.
Suggested Visas for Family Reunification – Requirements & Validity
| Visa Name | Key Requirements | Maximum Validity |
|---|---|---|
Spouse Visa |
Spouse Visa
Marriage to a Colombian citizen |
Up to 3 years |
Permanent Partner Visa |
Legal domestic partnership |
Up to 3 years |
Parent Visa |
Parent of a Colombian child |
Up to 3 years |
Beneficiary Visa. |
Dependent family of principal visa holder |
Linked to the main visa |
Medellin Guru Visa Service
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How can I stay in Colombia with passive income?
Deciding how to stay in Colombia with passive income starts with understanding the difference between two closely related but distinct profiles. Many people mix these up, but making the right choice is essential for your long-term plans. If you’re a pensioner who consistently receives a reliable pension or social security payment from a foreign government or private entity, this regular income stream essentially defines the classic retirement life and makes you a great fit for the Retirement Visa .
Meanwhile, the rentista profile is tailor-made for individuals who have significant passive income; think of money coming in from investments, rental properties, dividends, or royalties that land in your account like clockwork. You don’t need to be of retirement age, and you’re not working actively for this income. If this is your situation, the Rentista Visa could be your pathway to life in Colombia.
Checklist: Is this you?
- You receive a consistent monthly pension from a foreign public or private entity. Consider the Retirement Visa.
- You have proven passive income from investments, rental properties, dividends, interest, royalties, or similar fixed sources. Consider the Rentista Visa.
- Your income should be steady and documented for at least six months.
- You do not plan to work actively in Colombia with these visas (work is not permitted).
- You are prepared to provide legal documentation supporting your income source, with notarization and apostille as required.
- You have a valid passport and meet health and background check requirements.
Interesting Fact: Retirement Visa remains a strong option for pensioners seeking long-term residency, reflecting Colombia's flexible approach to attract retirees.
Suggested Visas for Passive Income Holders – Requirements & Validity
| Visa Name | Key Requirements | Table Header |
|---|---|---|
Retirement Visa |
Proof of stable pension or social security payments from a foreign public or private fund. Minimum income approx. COP 4,270,500/month (~USD 975). Submit pension proof and 6 months bank statements. Allows residency and path to permanent residency. |
Up to 3 years |
Rentista Visa |
Regular passive income from investments, rent, dividends, or royalties. Minimum income approx. COP 13,000,000/month (~USD 3,333). Proof of income and 6 months bank statements required. Visitor visa valid 2 years; no path to residency or citizenship. |
Up to 2 years. |
Which visa do I need for my audiovisual or journalist project?
This profile is for accredited professionals in media, journalism, or film who are working on a specific project in Colombia. The visa you apply for is directly tied to your project and official accreditation. It’s an important option for professionals whose stay is linked to a media assignment, and it is distinct from a traditional work visa in Colombia.
Checklist: Is this you?
- You hold press credentials or are linked to an officially recognized media outlet or project.
- Your work in Colombia is tied to a particular documentary, news report, or film, not traditional employment.
- You can provide accreditation or a formal assignment letter related to your project.
- You’re here temporarily, and the length of your stay matches the scope of your assignment.
Interesting Fact: Did you know that Colombia actively welcomes international media projects because they contribute to positive cultural exchange and visibility?
Suggested Journalist and Audiovisual Project Visas – Requirements & Validity
| Visa Name | Key Requirements | MMaximum Validity |
|---|---|---|
Temporary Journalist/Audiovisual Visa |
Short-term media assignment with official accreditation |
Project duration, up to 1 year |
Permanent Journalist Visa |
Longer, ongoing, officially sanctioned projects |
Up to 3 years |
Visitor (V) Large-Format Film/Documentary Visa |
Official project authorization and production schedule |
Duration of production |
What visa options are there for non-profit work?
If your heart draws you to Colombia for community service or religious mission work, your path is both meaningful and well-supported by specialized visas. Whether you’re serving in a humanitarian, charitable, or spiritual capacity, these visas help you stay legally while dedicating your time and talent to causes bigger than yourself.
Checklist: Is this you?
- Your main motivation is to volunteer or work with a recognized non-profit or religious organization in Colombia.
- You do not receive a salary from a Colombian employer (modest subsistence or stipends from your sponsoring organization are acceptable).
- You have formal sponsorship from an accredited NGO, religious institution, or charitable group
- Your work is geared toward service, education, humanitarian aid, or spiritual support within Colombian communities
Suggested Non-Profit and Religious Worker Visas – Requirements & Validity
| Visa Name | Key Requirements | MMaximum Validity |
|---|---|---|
Volunteer or Aid Worker Visa |
Sponsored by an entity or organization established for at least 5 years with legal proof of status; must provide a letter from the entity’s legal representative detailing the volunteer activities, location, duration, and financial responsibility for applicant’s expenses and repatriation costs. The sponsoring organization must demonstrate financial solvency averaging at least 100 times the current minimum wage over the past 6 months (not required if public entity). The applicant must have health insurance covering Colombia for the stay. |
Up to 2 years |
Religious Worker Visa |
Sponsorship by a religious entity duly recognized by the Colombian State, proved by a certificate of recognition and legal representation issued by the Ministry of Interior or the competent Diocese/Archdiocese. |
Up to 2 years |
Religious Student Visa |
Must be sponsored by a religious educational or formation institution recognized by the competent authorities. The visa limits stay to formal religious studies or formation activities |
Up to 1 year |
What visa do I need for medical treatment in Colombia?
If you are coming to Colombia for health-related reasons, such as medical consultations, specialized treatments, surgeries, or rehabilitation at Colombian hospitals or wellness facilities, the Medical Treatment Visa is the one designed for your needs. This visa allows you legal entry and stay for the entire period required for your health care and recovery. Colombia’s medical system is recognized for its high standards and affordability, making it a popular regional hub for medical tourism.
To qualify, you must present official documentation issued by a certified Colombian medical institution or healthcare provider, such as a formal letter or certification stating your medical condition, the specific treatment required, the estimated duration, and the expected costs.
This visa is strictly for receiving healthcare; it does not permit any employment. Family members or caregivers can also request the visa as a companion’s status, provided they show the necessity of their presence for the patient’s well-being.
Checklist: Is this you?
- You have confirmed medical appointments, procedures, or ongoing therapies with a Colombian medical center.
- Your planned stay matches the necessary treatment and recovery timeframe.
- You have the funds or insurance to cover all medical and living expenses.
- You have no intention of working during your stay in Colombia.
Interesting Fact: Colombia has rapidly become a leading destination for medical tourism in Latin America, especially in specialties like dentistry, oncology, and cardiovascular procedures—offering internationally accredited care at accessible prices.
| Visa Name | Key Requirements | Maximum Validity |
|---|---|---|
Medical Treatment Visa |
Proof of medical appointment and acceptance by a health institution |
Up to 6 months |
What visa do I need for administrative or judicial procedures?
When you need to remain in Colombia to resolve official government matters, attend court hearings, participate in investigations, or oversee any kind of legal process, Colombia offers an Administrative and/or Judicial Procedures Visa. This visa is specifically for foreigners who must be present in the country to satisfy obligations with Colombian institutions, ensuring that you can remain legally during ongoing hearings, investigations, filings, or compliance steps.
It is not designed for long-term residency or to authorize employment, but rather for the sole purpose of allowing you to fulfill your legal or administrative responsibilities. Applicants are required to submit proof of their official status as a party, witness, or interested party in an active case or proceeding.
Checklist: Is this you?
- You are directly involved in administrative or judicial cases (civil, criminal, commercial, or administrative).
- You have a summons, court appointments, or other official notification from a Colombian authority.
- Your legal presence is required until the end of the process.
- You do not intend to work or reside in Colombia beyond the purpose of these proceedings.
Interesting Fact: This visa provides peace of mind for foreigners confronting complex cases such as property disputes, litigation, or compliance checks, ensuring that their legal status remains uninterrupted throughout the entire judicial or administrative proceedings
Administrative and/or Judicial Procedures Visa – Requirements & Validity
| Visa Name | Key Requirements | Maximum Validity |
|---|---|---|
Visitor (V) Administrative or Judicial Procedures Visa |
Proof of participation in active legal or official proceedings |
Duration of legal process |
Ready to Make Colombia Your New Home?
Navigating the visa process can seem complex, but with the right guidance, your dream of living, working, or investing in Colombia is within reach. Whether you qualify as a digital nomad, investor, student, religious worker, or retiree, Colombia’s diverse visa options are tailored to fit your unique situation.
Our expert visa services are here to help you every step of the way—from selecting the right visa category, preparing your documentation, to ensuring smooth application submission and follow-up with Colombian immigration authorities. Don’t leave your future to chance; let professionals simplify the process and maximize your chances of success.
Medellin Guru Visa Service
The visa agency we partnered with has helped 1.893 Medellin Guru reader
Medellin Guru's comprehensive visa and passport series
The Colombian visa changes that went into effect in October 2022 were significant. So, on the Medellin Guru site, we have a comprehensive series of visa articles that are kept up-to-date and should answer most visa questions. These articles include:
- Colombia Visa Guide: Ultimate Guide How to Get a Colombian Visa
- How to Obtain a Colombian Visa with Up-to-Date Info – an overview of all the Colombian visas
- Popular Colombian Visas for Foreigners: Which Visa is the Most Popular?
- Coronavirus Impacts on Colombian Visas and Tourist Visas
- Visa Agencies: A Guide to Visa Agencies in Medellín and Colombia
- 9Common Colombian Visa Mistakes: How to Avoid Them
We have looked in detail at the nine most popular Colombian visas used by foreigners:
- Digital Nomad Visa
- Retirement visa
- Marriage visa
- Investment visa
- Business Visa
- Resident visa
- Work visa
- Student visa
- Visitor visa
Also, we have looked in detail at three additional Colombian visas, which are less popular for foreigners:
- Rentista visa (annuity visa) – for foreigners with a fixed income
- Beneficiary visa – for relatives of visa holders
- Expertise visa – for professionals
In addition, we have a guide to Colombia tourist visas and how to extend a tourist visa. Also, we have a guide to renewing U.S. passports in Colombia and a guide to obtaining a Colombian passport.
Furthermore, we provide information about travel insurance that meets the insurance requirement for Colombian visas. And we have a guide to how apply for a cedula extranjeria in Colombia and a guide to using notaries in Medellín and Colombia. Finally, Medellin Guru has partnered with a visa agency to offer Colombia visa services.
All of our Colombia visa articles are up to date (2024) and constantly receive updates in 2025.
The Bottom Line: How to Choose a Visa for Colombia? Discover your Applicant Profile
Choosing the right Colombian visa might initially seem complicated, but with a clear understanding of your individual circumstances and goals, it can quickly become a straightforward process. Whether you are a spirited investor ready to boost the local economy, a skilled professional seeking career opportunities, a digital nomad craving flexibility, a student or intern passionate about learning, a family-oriented expat reuniting with loved ones, a retiree looking for peace and quality of life, a rentista aiming to leverage passive income, a journalist, or audiovisual producer working on a media project, or a volunteer committed to social service, Colombia has visa options tailored just for you.
This comprehensive guide has laid out the key applicant profiles and corresponding visas to help you identify where you fit in Colombia’s immigration system. It highlights the essential criteria for each visa, along with the maximum validity terms, so you can plan both the short and long term.
Whether you are currently in Colombia or preparing from abroad, the key to a successful visa application lies in accurately matching your motivations, legal situation, and intended activities to the correct visa. This approach not only ensures compliance with Colombian immigration law but also opens doors to seamless integration, residency benefits, and potential paths to permanent residence or citizenship.
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