Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions about our services

Clear answers to the questions we get most often about visas, immigration procedures, and legal advisory in Colombia. If your question isn't here, reach out directly.

About the advisory service

What exactly does the immigration advisory service include?

The service includes analyzing your migration profile, preparing and reviewing your documentation, guiding you through filing your application with the Foreign Ministry, following up on the process until you get a response, and staying in personalized contact with you throughout the whole journey.

Does the advisory service guarantee my visa will be approved?

No. No advisory service can guarantee visa approval, since the final decision always rests with the Colombian immigration authority. What good advisory guidance does offer is an organized process, reviewed documentation, and a lower risk of errors that could affect your application.

How do I start the advisory process?

The first step is to write via WhatsApp or email briefly explaining your situation. From there, a migration profile analysis is scheduled to identify which visa category best fits your case.

Is the advisory service only for people who already live in Colombia?

No. Both people already in Colombia and those still abroad planning their immigration process before traveling are welcome.

What information do you need to start guiding me?

Generally we need to know your nationality, your family and professional situation, the purpose of your stay in Colombia, and whether you already have any prior document or immigration process.

Visa types

What visa do I need to live in Colombia with my Colombian partner?

This is generally a Migrant Visa (M) based on family ties, though the exact subtype depends on whether there is a marriage, a registered domestic partnership, or shared children. Each case is analyzed individually.

What visa do I need to work remotely from Colombia?

The Digital Nomad Visa is designed for foreigners who work remotely for a company or clients abroad and meet Colombia's income requirements.

Can I apply for a visa if I'm retired in my home country?

Yes. There is a Migrant Visa (M) category for retirees who receive a pension from abroad, provided minimum amount requirements are met and the pension is properly documented.

What visa do I need to study at a Colombian university?

The Student Visa is the right category for those who want to pursue formal studies at a Colombian educational institution, and it requires an acceptance letter from the institution.

What's the difference between a Visitor Visa (V) and a Migrant Visa (M)?

The Visitor Visa is designed for short- or medium-duration activities with no intent to settle permanently. The Migrant Visa is designed for those seeking a more stable connection with Colombia and, in some cases, can lead to a Resident Visa.

What is the Mercosur Visa and who can apply for it?

It's a special immigration category for nationals of Mercosur member or associate countries, which facilitates their stay in Colombia under the terms of the regional agreement.

Can I apply for a visa if I'm going to invest in Colombia?

Yes, there is a Migrant Visa category for investors, which requires meeting a minimum investment amount and providing the corresponding supporting documentation.

Documents and requirements

What documents do I need for almost any visa process?

Generally you'll need a valid passport, a recent photo, a completed application form, and the specific supporting documents required for your visa category (employment, family, financial, academic, etc.).

Do my foreign documents need an apostille?

In most cases, yes. Public documents issued abroad usually require an apostille or consular legalization, plus an official translation into Spanish if not already in that language.

What happens if my document is expired when I file my application?

An expired document can lead to your application being rejected or facing a formal requirement. That's why it's important to check the validity of all your documents before submitting them to the Foreign Ministry.

Do I need to translate my documents into Spanish?

Yes, if your original documents are in another language, an official translation into Spanish is generally required for them to be valid before the Colombian immigration authority.

Process and timelines

How long does a visa process take in Colombia?

Timelines vary depending on the visa category, how complete your documentation is, and the Foreign Ministry's workload at the time of your application. Prior advisory guidance helps avoid requirements that can extend the process.

Can I track my application once it's submitted?

Yes. Ongoing support includes following up on your process after it's filed, guiding you through the different stages until you receive a response.

Don't see your question here?

Every immigration situation is different. Write to us and we'll gladly help.

Write on WhatsApp
¿Prefieres leer esto en español? Ver este sitio en español