Tourist Visa (Visitor Visa - Type V): Allows stays of up to 90 days, extendable for another 90 days, with a maximum of 180 days per calendar year.
Temporary Resident Visa (Migrant Visa - Type M): Typically valid for 1 to 3 years, depending on the specific visa type (e.g., work, student, digital nomad).
Permanent Resident Visa (Resident Visa - Type R): Grants indefinite stay, but the visa must be renewed every 5 years.
Visa cost
Tourist Visa: Approximately $50 to $85, depending on nationality. Many nationalities, including U.S. citizens, do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days.
Temporary Resident Visa: Typically ranges from $200 to $300, depending on visa type.
Permanent Resident Visa: Generally $400 to $500, depending on eligibility.
Visa extension
Tourist Visa: Yes, an extension of up to 90 days is possible, but the total stay cannot exceed 180 days per year.
Temporary Resident Visa: Yes, renewable depending on the visa type. Some visas lead to permanent residency after a specific period.
Permanent Resident Visa: Not applicable; grants indefinite stay but must be renewed every 5 years.
Visa processing time
Tourist Visa: Processing takes approximately 5 to 10 business days.
Temporary Resident Visa: Processing time varies from 30 to 45 days.
Permanent Resident Visa: Typically processed within 3 to 6 months.
Who can apply?
Tourist Visa: Required for visitors from non-exempt countries. Many nationalities, including U.S., Canadian, and EU citizens, do not need a visa for stays under 90 days.
Temporary Resident Visa: Open to students, workers, entrepreneurs, investors, and digital nomads meeting income requirements.
Permanent Resident Visa: Available to individuals who have held a temporary visa for 5 years, have Colombian family ties, or meet investment requirements.
Where to apply?
All visa applications are submitted through the Colombian embassy or consulate in your country or online via the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
How to apply:
Determine Visa Type: Identify whether you need a Tourist, Temporary Resident, or Permanent Resident Visa.
Gather Required Documents:
Tourist Visa: Valid passport, completed application form, passport photo, proof of travel itinerary, and financial proof.
Temporary Resident Visa: Additional documents such as work contracts, university acceptance letters, or proof of remote work.
Permanent Resident Visa: Requires proof of eligibility (e.g., long-term residency, investment, or family ties).
Complete Online Application: Fill out the form on Colombia’s immigration portal.
Pay the Visa Fee: Fees vary depending on visa type and nationality.
Submit Application: Provide documents and biometric data at the nearest Colombian consulate or immigration office.
Await Processing: Once processed, you will be notified for visa collection or approval.
Minimum income requirements
Tourist Visa: No specific income requirement, but proof of sufficient funds may be required.
Temporary Resident Visa: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient income to support their stay; digital nomads must prove a monthly income of at least $700 to $1,000.
Permanent Resident Visa: Income requirements vary based on visa type; retirees must show a stable pension of at least $1,200 per month.
Popular cities
Bogotá: The capital city, known for its cultural and business hubs.
Medellín: A modern city with a strong digital nomad community.
Cartagena: A historic coastal city popular with tourists.
Cali: Famous for its salsa culture and nightlife.
Barranquilla: A major port city and home to Colombia’s famous Carnival.
Minimum income requirements
Official Language: Spanish.
Other Languages: English is spoken in major tourist areas, especially in Cartagena and Medellín.
Average internet speeds
Fixed Broadband: Average download speed of approximately 90 Mbps.
Mobile Internet: Average download speed of around 20 Mbps.
