Introduction
Colombia is becoming an increasingly popular destination for expats, digital nomads, retirees, and investors. One of the first hurdles newcomers face is understanding the country’s visa system. In this guide, we’ll break down the types of visas in Colombia (2025) — from work and retirement visas to family, investment, and permanent residency. Whether you’re planning to live in Colombia seasonally or permanently, this breakdown will help you find the visa that suits your goals.
1. Overview of Colombia’s Visa System
Colombia’s visa framework is managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Cancillería) and is divided into three major categories:
- Visitor Visas (V) — for short-term stays
- Migrant Visas (M) — for medium- to long-term stays
- Resident Visas (R) — for permanent residency
Each visa type has specific sub-categories depending on what you plan to do in Colombia: retire, invest, work, join family, or study.
2. Types of Visas in Colombia
2.1 Retirement Visa (M-11)
- Made for retirees or pensioners who receive a regular pension or retirement income.
- Requires proving a minimum monthly pension (usually 3× Colombia’s minimum legal wage).
- Valid for up to 3 years; can often be renewed.
- Permit holders often must spend a minimum number of days/year in Colombia.
2.2 Work Visa (M-5 / M-6)
- Granted to individuals who have a job contract with a Colombian company.
- Requires an employment offer, proof of company’s ability to pay salary, and possibly a work permit.
- The visa is often valid for 1–3 years depending on the contract.
- Work visas can serve as a route to a Resident Visa (R) if maintained for long enough.
2.3 Digital Nomad Visa (V-Nómada Digital)
- Designed for remote workers who earn income from sources outside Colombia.
- Does not permit work for Colombian companies.
- Valid typically for up to 2 years (depending on current rules).
- Requires proof of income, sometimes a contract with a foreign company, and health insurance.
2.4 Investment / Business Visa (M-7 or similar)
- For foreign nationals investing in Colombia (real estate, company, or business).
- Must show legal and active investment (business registration, financial statements).
- May require a larger investment depending on the visa subtype.
- Can often lead to long-term residency, especially if the business is successful.
2.5 Family / Spouse Visa
- Available for spouses of Colombians, children of Colombians, or parents of Colombian children.
- Usually comes with a right to work (if legally married or in a legal union).
- Requires proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.).
2.6 Student Visa (M-17 or V-student)
- For foreigners enrolled in Colombian educational institutions.
- Requires enrollment proof, acceptance letter, and sometimes proof of financial means.
- Visa duration usually aligns with the course of study.
2.7 Permanent Residency Visa (R)
- For people who have held certain M visas for a required number of years.
- Grants open work authorization.
- Typically requires a renewal every 5 years unless conditions for permanent status are met.
3. How to Apply for a Visa in Colombia
- Choose which visa type suits your goals (retirement, work, nomad, etc.).
- Gather required documentation: passport, photos, proof of income, background checks, health insurance.
- Fill out the visa application form on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or designated portal.
- Pay the visa processing fee.
- Submit application and attend required appointments / interviews.
- Upon approval, apply for your Cédula de Extranjería (foreign ID) once in Colombia.
- Maintain visa conditions (days in Colombia, investment activity, work, etc.) to renew or apply for R visa later.
4. Pros & Cons of Each Visa Type
| Visa Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Retirement (M-11) | Stable, simple, no need to work | No work authorization; income requirement |
| Work Visa (M-5) | Legal employment + path to residency | Tied to employer; additional paperwork |
| Digital Nomad | Work remotely, live in Colombia | No Colombian employment; must maintain outside income |
| Investment | Business ownership + residency | Requires capital; business risk |
| Family/Spouse | Keeps family together + work possible | Relationship proof required; renewal rules |
| Permanent (R) | Unlimited work + residency | Must meet strict requirements; maintain status |
5. Practical Tips for Visa Seekers
- Use a legal advisor or immigration lawyer if applying for work or investor visas.
- Carefully legalize (apostille) required documents like pension statements or contracts.
- Set up healthcare or insurance before applying — it’s often required.
- Keep detailed financial records.
- Track your visa expiry and renew well in advance.
- Be aware of minimum stay requirements (some visas require you to live in Colombia for a portion of the year).
6. What’s New and Changed for 2025
- Colombia continues to refine its digital nomad visa; more services are available online.
- Investment visa thresholds are being closely monitored, but opportunities remain strong.
- The path from M visa → R visa is becoming more streamlined for certain categories.
- Remote workers now more frequently combine nomad visas with local co-working and extended stays.
- Retirees are increasingly choosing Medellín, Coffee Region, or Rionegro as permanent bases.
Conclusion
Understanding the types of visas in Colombia is the first step to legally living, working, investing, or retiring here. Whether you choose a retirement visa, work visa, digital nomad visa, or plan to make long-term investments, Colombia offers flexible and compelling visa options. With the right preparation, clear documentation, and a good understanding of requirements, it’s entirely possible to build a fulfilling life in Colombia — with the stability and security of legal residency. Now of course, if you’re dating, there’s a chance you might qualify for the M-1 Visa. The matrimonial visa. That is an option too.
