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Expatgroup.co Services Guide: Launching New Online Processes for Expats

So, you’ve fallen in love with Colombia and are looking to make it home? Or perhaps you’re already here in Medellín or Bogotá, and you’re staring down the maze of visa paperwork, residency requirements, and official processes? We understand that navigating Colombian immigration can be overwhelming, even for the most seasoned travelers. But there’s a straightforward path. With expatgroup.co, ensure you have all the correct information and a clear route to making your Colombian dream a seamless reality. In this blog, you’ll discover everything you need to know—from securing the right visa and essential immigration procedures to business assistance, real estate solutions, and how expatgroup.co can simplify every step.Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

What is Expatgroup.co?

Expatgroup.co is a top advisory firm dedicated to helping foreigners navigate life in Colombia with ease. Whether you’re planning to live, invest, work, or study here, they offer expert guidance across the board, from securing Colombian visas to company incorporation, foreign direct investment, and essential health insurance required for your visa.

Their services also cover real estate solutions, critical documentation like FBI background checks, apostilles, translations, and specialized advice on legal and tax matters tailored for expats. With an impressive 97% visa approval rate and facilitation of over USD121 million in foreign direct investment, expatgroup.co stands out as a trusted partner for turning your Colombian dream into reality. They understand that every expat’s journey is unique, so their experienced team of legal and immigration specialists offers tailored solutions that go beyond paperwork.

Acting as your reliable guide, they simplify complex residency and legalization processes with care and precision. Whether you’re based in Medellín, Bogotá, or any other Colombian city, their remote services ensure you’re fully supported every step of the way.

How Can You Navigate Colombian Visas with Expatgroup.co for a Legal Stay?

Navigating Colombia’s visa system can feel overwhelming, especially with the detailed regulations laid out under Resolution 5477 of 2022. Whether you’re a worker, student, investor, retiree, or simply planning to make Colombia your new home, expatgroup.co serves as your trusted guide through the process. Their experienced team helps you understand the full range of visa categories and identifies the best fit for your unique situation.

By partnering with expatgroup, you’re not just getting visa assistance; you’re gaining a knowledgeable ally who understands Colombian immigration inside and out, helping you avoid common pitfalls, ensure all your paperwork is in order, and make certain your stay is fully legal and hassle-free, so you can focus on enjoying your new life in Colombia.

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Visas & lawyer Immigration

What Is the Visitor Visa (Type V) in Colombia?

The Visitor Visa (Type V) is Colombia’s flexible option for foreigners planning a temporary stay without the intention of permanent residency. Valid for up to two years depending on the activity, it covers a broad range of short-term purposes, making it ideal for tourists, business travelers, students in short courses, volunteers, and professionals on temporary assignments.

Whether you’re here to explore Colombia’s vibrant culture, attend a conference, volunteer with a nonprofit, or receive medical treatment, the Visitor Visa provides the legal framework to stay and engage in these activities without the complexities of longer-term visas.

However, it’s important to note that this visa does not lead directly to residency or citizenship and does not contribute to the residency period required for those statuses.

The Visitor Visa suits those who want to enjoy Colombia’s beauty and opportunities for a limited time—up to 180 days for tourism and short studies, and up to two years for other approved activities.

What Rights and Benefits Does the Visitor Visa Offer?

1. Temporary legal stay

Allows you to remain in Colombia for the duration of your approved activity, up to two years depending on the visa subcategory.
2. Multiple activity options:

Covers tourism, business meetings, academic exchanges, humanitarian work, technical services, media coverage, and medical treatment.
3.No work authorization:

The Visitor Visa does not permit formal employment or paid work in Colombia.
4. Access to cultural and academic events:

Enables participation in seminars, conferences, workshops, and volunteer projects.
5. Ease of application:

Often requires fewer documents than longer-term visas, making it accessible for short-term visitors

How to Obtain a Colombia Visitor Visa – 2025 Update

Colombia has over 25 visitor visa categories. We provide up-to-date 2024 information on how to obtain a Colombia visitor visa (V).

What Is the Migrant Visa (Type M) in Colombia?

If you’re planning to stay in Colombia beyond a short visit and want a more stable, medium- to long-term residency option, the Migrant Visa (Type M) is designed for you. Valid for up to three years, this type of visa opens the door to building a life in Colombia with greater security and flexibility. It also serves as an important stepping stone toward permanent residency.

The Migrant Visa caters to a wide range of foreigners with strong ties or interests in Colombia. Whether you’re launching a business, investing in real estate, joining family members, working under a formal contract, freelancing, or retiring on a pension, this visa provides the legal framework to support your plans.

What Rights and Benefits Come With the Migrant Visa?

1. Medium- to long-term legal stay:

Allows you to live in Colombia for up to three years
2.Work authorization:

Enables formal employment or freelancing under Colombian law.
3.Investment and business opportunities:

Supports economic activities such as company formation and property ownership.
4. Family reunification:

Covers spouses, permanent partners, and parents of Colombian children.
5. Pathway to permanent residency:

Time spent on a Migrant Visa counts toward the residency requirements for applying for a Resident Visa.
6. Access to social services:

Most of the Migrant Visas allow enrollment in health insurance (EPS or private) and other benefits, except for retirement visa.

How to Obtain a Colombian Visa - With Up-to-Date 2023 Info

How to Obtain a Colombian Visa – With Up-to-Date 2025 Info

Colombia has many different Colombian visa options, enabling you to stay in the country for a year or more. We provide 2025 updates to Colombia's visa rules.

Who Qualifies for the Resident Visa (Type R) in Colombia?

The Resident Visa (Type R) is Colombia’s premier visa for foreigners who have established strong, lasting ties to the country and want to settle indefinitely. This visa grants you the right to live, work, invest, and study without time limitations, making it the most direct path to Colombian citizenship. Eligibility typically includes those who have legally resided in Colombia on a Migrant Visa for five continuous years (or three years if married to a Colombian), former Colombian nationals seeking to regain residency, Venezuelan nationals registered under the Temporary Protection Statute (ETPV), or individuals recognized under the Peace Process agreements.

To apply, you’ll need a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, a recent passport-style photo, and a Certificate of Migratory Movements from Migración Colombia confirming your legal stay, and other documents depending of the Resident Visa category. Remember, while the Resident Visa grants indefinite residency, failure to complete the five-year visa transfer or a prolonged absence from Colombia can jeopardize your status.

What Rights and Benefits Does the Resident Visa Provide?

1. Unlimited stay:

Live in Colombia indefinitely without needing frequent visa renewals.
2.Work and study:

Full authorization to work, study, and engage in business activities.
3.Investment freedom:

Buy property and invest in Colombian companies with ease.
4. Access to healthcare:

Enroll in Colombia’s public and private health systems
5. Pathway to citizenship:

Eligible to apply for Colombian citizenship after five years of residency.
6. Legal stability:

Peace of mind with a secure, long-term immigration status.

How to Obtain a Colombia Resident Visa – 2025 Update

Colombia's resident visa is intended for foreigners who wish to live full-time in Colombia. We provide 2025 updates to the resident visa rules.

What Other Immigration Procedures and Essential Documents Can expatgroup Help With?

Beyond visas, expatgroup.co supports expats with crucial immigration procedures and documentation that keep your stay legal and hassle-free in Colombia.

What Is the Cédula de Extranjería?

If your Colombian visa is valid for more than 90 days, the Cédula de Extranjería becomes your official identification card in Colombia. This card is key to fully integrating into Colombian life; it’s required for everything from opening bank accounts and signing contracts to accessing healthcare and formal employment.

The Cédula is issued by Migración Colombia and must be obtained within 15 calendar days of entering Colombia or receiving your visa. It reflects your current visa status and must be updated whenever you renew or change your visa, or transfer your visa to a new passport.

Who Needs to Get a Cédula de Extranjería?

Foreign nationals holding Visitor, Migrant, or Resident visas valid for more than 90 days.
First-time visa holders must apply within 15 days of arrival or visa issuance.
Those renewing or changing visa status must update their Cédula accordingly.
If transferring your visa to a new passport, you may need a new Cédula reflecting the updated information.

This card is essential because it serves as your key to accessing a wide range of services and rights in the country. Without it, you will face significant barriers in everyday activities such as opening bank accounts, applying for loans or mortgages, securing formal employment, enrolling in social security, accessing healthcare through the EPS system, signing rental or property contracts, and obtaining official documents like driver’s licenses.

In essence, the Cédula de Extranjería is required for practically all official transactions and formal engagements in Colombia. It proves your legal residency status and facilitates trust and recognition from institutions and service providers.

Why Is Visa Registration Mandatory in Colombia?

If you’re a foreigner entering Colombia with a visa valid for more than 90 days, one of your first legal steps is mandatory visa registration with Migración Colombia. This registration officially records your entry and activates your immigration status in the national system. It’s also a prerequisite for obtaining your Foreign ID Card (Cédula de Extranjería).

When must you register your visa?

Within 15 calendar days of arriving in Colombia or receiving your visa if it’s your first time.
After any visa extension, renewal, or change in visa type. When your visa is transferred to a new passport (due to renewal, loss, or damage).
Upon reentry after a long absence, depending on your situation.

What Is a Beneficiary Visa in Colombia?

The Beneficiary Visa is intended for close family members who depend economically on a foreigner holding a valid Migrant (M), Resident (R), or certain Visitor (V) visas. Eligible beneficiaries include:

Spouses or permanent partners of the principal visa holder
Children under 25 years old, or older children with qualifying disabilities
Economically dependent parents in some cases

This visa mirrors the duration and conditions of the principal visa but does not grant work authorization. Beneficiaries can study but generally cannot engage in formal employment. The Beneficiary Visa provides legal residency aligned with the main visa holder’s status, ensuring family unity while respecting Colombian immigration rules.

What is the Visa Transfer?

Visa transfer is mandatory in several scenarios to maintain your legal status and avoid fines or complications. You must transfer your visa if:

The visa transfer process involves submitting your current visa, foreigner ID card (cédula de extranjería), proof of migratory movements, and a letter explaining the reason for the transfer.

What Other Special Procedures Should Expats Be Aware Of?

Transition Regime Compliance:

Residents with visas issued before Resolution 5477 must transfer their visas by the October 31, 2026 deadline to maintain status
Personal Data Updates:

Any changes to your name, nationality, or corrections to visa stamps require administrative updates or transfers.
Employment or Contract Changes:

If your visa is tied to a job and your employer changes name or you switch employers, you must update your visa accordingly.

How Can Expatgroup.co Assist with Investment in Colombia?

If you’re an entrepreneur or investor looking to establish or grow your business in Colombia, expatgroup.co offers expert, bilingual support to simplify the process. They guide you through every step, from company registration and legal compliance to investment legalization and ongoing tax advice, tailoring their services to your specific goals and industry.

Business & Investment Services Offered by expatgroup.co

Company Incorporation (SAS - Simplified Stock Company)

Guidance through every step of setting up a SAS, Colombia’s most flexible and foreigner-friendly business structure. This includes name reservation, drafting bylaws, registration with the Chamber of Commerce, and obtaining your tax identification number (NIT).

Foreign Investment Guidance

Expert advice on bringing capital into Colombia, legalizing foreign direct investment, and ensuring compliance with all reporting and tax obligations.

Legal Advice for Businesses

Ongoing support for regulatory compliance, contract drafting, labor law, and risk management—tailored to the needs of international entrepreneurs and investors.

Broker Account Opening

Assistance with setting up corporate or personal brokerage accounts, enabling you to manage foreign investments, transfer funds, and access Colombian or international financial markets.

Benefits of Using expatgroup.co for Business & Investment

Personalized, bilingual support at every stage, ensuring you understand local requirements and avoid costly mistakes.
Simplified company formation with all legal and administrative steps handled for you, from documentation to tax registration.
Peace of mind knowing your investments are structured for compliance and long-term growth, with expert legal oversight.
Efficient account setup for banking and brokerage needs, streamlining your financial operations in Colombia.
Up-to-date guidance on evolving regulations, so your business stays protected and competitive.
Access to a trusted network of professionals, including accountants, legal advisors, and financial specialists, for ongoing support as your business grows.

Can Expatgroup.co Help Me with Real Estate in Colombia?

expatgroup.co is a trusted partner for foreigners looking to buy property in Colombia, offering comprehensive guidance to make your real estate investment safe, legal, and hassle-free. Whether you’re searching for your dream home or exploring investment opportunities in Medellín or other regions, their bilingual team provides expert support every step of the way.

Real Estate Services Provided by expatgroup.co

Transferring Funds into Colombia

Ensuring compliance with foreign exchange regulations for smooth and legal money transfers.

Legal Analysis and Property Background Check

Ensuring compliance with foreign exchange regulations for smooth and legal money transfers.

Sales Agreement (Compraventa):

Drafting and managing contracts that protect your interests during the purchase.

Deed Registration:

Formalizing ownership by registering the property with Colombian authorities.

Legal Representation:

Acting on your behalf during negotiations and legal processes, especially if you cannot be present in Colombia.

Investment Visa Assistance:

Guiding you through the application process for the Real Estate Investment Visa linked to your property purchase.

Benefits of Using expatgroup.co for Your Property Purchase

Expert Legal Protection

Compliance with Regulations

Convenience and Peace of Mind

Bilingual Support

Integrated Visa Support

Local Market Knowledge

What Health Insurance Options Does Expatgroup.co Offer for Colombia Visas?

Health insurance is not just a legal requirement for most Colombian visas—it’s a vital part of ensuring your safety and peace of mind while living or traveling in Colombia. Whether you’re applying for a Visitor, Migrant, or Resident visa, having the right coverage is essential to meet immigration rules and protect yourself from unexpected medical expenses.

Why Is Health Insurance Important for Foreigners in Colombia?

Colombia’s public healthcare system (EPS) offers a broad range of services including emergency care, surgeries, maternity, mental health support, and more. However, access requires proper registration and contributions, which vary based on employment and income. For expats, especially those on temporary or special visas, private or international health insurance plans are often necessary to meet visa requirements and ensure comprehensive coverage.

How Does expatgroup.co Support Health Insurance for Colombia Visas?

Expatgroup.co partners with trusted providers like Assist Card, a global leader in travel and health insurance that meets all Colombian visa requirements. Assist Card’s plans offer comprehensive coverage including accidents, illnesses, maternity, disability, hospitalization, and repatriation services, plus extras like legal assistance and lost luggage protection.

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Insurance

What Documentation Services Does expatgroup.co Provide for Foreigners in Colombia?

Managing official paperwork is a crucial part of any expat’s journey in Colombia. expatgroup.co offers a full suite of documentation services to help foreigners meet legal requirements, streamline immigration processes, and secure the documents needed for a smooth transition into Colombian life. Their support goes beyond visas, covering every step from background checks to essential registrations, ensuring you’re always compliant and prepared.

Whether you’re applying for your first visa, registering your status, or updating your identification, expatgroup.co’s bilingual team guides you through each process. Their expertise means you avoid common pitfalls, save time, and can focus on settling in with confidence.

Documentation Services Available from expatgroup.co

FBI Background Check and Bundled Legalization:

Assistance with obtaining your FBI Background Check, US Apostille, and certified Spanish translations—essential for many Colombian visa applications.

US Apostille and Certified Translations:

Legalization of foreign documents and certified translations to Spanish, ensuring your paperwork is accepted by Colombian authorities for visas, contracts, or official procedures.

American Passport Renewal:

Guidance and support for renewing your US passport while in Colombia, so you avoid unnecessary travel and delays

Official Translations

Certified translation of documents (birth certificates, marriage certificates, legal documents, etc.) into Spanish, ensuring acceptance by Colombian authorities for all types of procedures. This service can be added to apostille processing or requested separately

Fingerprinting for FBI Background Checks:

Support with the fingerprinting process required for obtaining an FBI background check, including appointments for digital or ink fingerprints

Benefits of Using expatgroup.co for Documentation Services

All-in-one convenience:

Centralized support for every major document and registration you’ll need as an expat.
Compliance and accuracy:

Every document is prepared to meet Colombian legal and immigration standards, reducing the risk of rejections or delays.
Time savings

Bundled services and expert guidance help you avoid red tape and speed up the approval process.
Bilingual support:

Clear communication in English and Spanish throughout every step.
Peace of mind:

Trusted professionals handle sensitive paperwork, so you can focus on enjoying your new life in Colombia.

How Do You Get Started with Expatgroup.co?

The easiest way to begin is by purchasing your desired service directly through expatgroup.co’s secure online payment form. This allows you to quickly acquire the service you need, whether it’s visa processing, business setup, or real estate assistance, and start the process without delay.

If you want a clearer idea of costs before committing, you can use the “Quote Now” feature on their website to receive a personalized estimate tailored to your specific needs. For more complex cases requiring detailed advice, such as immigration strategies, legal consultations, or tax planning, you can also book a consultation with one of their specialists, with fees varying depending on the service scope.

Finally, if you have questions or prefer direct communication, you can contact expatgroup.co through WhatsApp. Their bilingual team is ready to assist you promptly and guide you through the next steps.

Where Can Expats Find Local Support from expatgroup.co in Medellín and Bogotá?

expatgroup.co's Presence in Medellín

The company’s main office is located in Medellín at Davivienda Business Towers, Av. El Poblado N° 01 Sur-188, Office 508. This central hub offers comprehensive in-person services, including detailed consultations, visa processing, business and real estate legal support, and fingerprinting services essential for FBI Background Checks. Medellín’s office is staffed by bilingual experts who provide personalized assistance, making it the go-to location for expats seeking face-to-face support in Colombia’s second-largest city.

expatgroup.co's Growing Support in Bogotá

While expatgroup.co’s Bogotá presence is newer and not yet a full traditional office, they provide key in-person services such as fingerprinting and specialized migratory consultations in the capital. This approach allows expats in Bogotá to access critical services without traveling to Medellín. Additionally, expatgroup.co leverages its nationwide online platform and a network of local contacts to offer business consulting, real estate advice, and immigration support throughout Bogotá and other major cities.

What Are the Price Ranges for Key expatgroup.co Services in Colombia?

Service Category	Service Name	Starting price USD	Apply Now
Visas	Visa Type M (Retired)	$275 USD	Apply Now
	Visa Type M (Spouse)	$455	Apply Now
	Visa Type M (Real Estate Investment)	$543	Apply Now
	Visa Type V (Digital Nomad)	$275	Apply Now
Business	Company Incorporation (SAS)	$750	Apply Now
	Foreign Direct Investment Certificate	$120	Apply Now
	Broker Account Opening	$350	Apply Now
Real Estate	Standard Real Estate Package + visa	$1622	Apply Now
Health Insurance	Travel Health Insurance	Starting at $772- Starting at $950	Apply now

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Visas & lawyer Immigration

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:

We have looked in detail at the nine most popular Colombian visas used by foreigners:

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: Expatgroup.co Services Guide: Launching New Online Processes for Expats

Don’t let the maze of Colombian immigration, visa applications, or business setup slow down your plans. With clear guidance, personalized support, and a deep understanding of what expats really need, expatgroup.co turns complicated bureaucracy into a smooth, manageable journey. So go ahead—make your move with confidence, knowing you’ve got a trusted partner helping you every step of the way toward living, working, and thriving in this incredible country.