If you are researching a Colombian residency visa, here is the key point: most foreigners reach residency in Colombia by following a qualifying visa path (often a Migrant (M) visa) and then transitioning to a Colombia resident visa (Type R) when they meet the requirements. The best option depends on whether your long-term plan is investment, retirement, family, or business.
In this guide, we compare the main Colombian residency visa routes, explain who qualifies, and outline the steps to apply without losing time to avoidable mistakes.
What is a Colombian Residency Visa
A residency visa in Colombia South America allows foreign nationals to live in the country for an extended period, with more rights and stability than tourist or short-stay visas. Depending on the visa type, you may also be allowed to:
- Work legally
- Start or manage a business
- Invest in property or companies
- Apply for citizenship later on
- Bring your family as dependents
Colombia offers Migrant (M) Visas for medium-term stays and Resident (R) Visas for long-term or permanent residency.
Quick Comparison of the Main Routes
Use this table to quickly align your goal with the most common route:
| Your goal | Route that usually fits | Why it works |
|---|---|---|
| Live in Colombia long-term and eventually qualify for a resident status | Migrant (M) visa that accumulates time → later transition to Resident (R) | Builds a residency timeline through lawful continuity |
| Permanent-style status based on significant investment | Resident by investment (where applicable) | Can grant resident status based on a higher registered investment threshold |
| Long-term life planning through family ties | Family-based path (varies by situation) | Often provides clearer long-term stability than “temporary lifestyle” visas |
| “Try Colombia first” while staying flexible | Visitor options (e.g., Digital Nomad) | Good for lifestyle testing; usually not for permanent residency timelines |
How to Get Residency in Colombia: Step-by-Step Process
No matter which type of visa you apply for, the general process to obtain Colombian residency visa includes:
- Choose the right visa category (investment, retirement, remote work, family, etc.)
- Gather all required documents, translated and apostilled if necessary
- Submit your visa application online via the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Pay the visa processing fee (typically between $50–$300 USD)
- Attend a biometric appointment in Colombia or interview at a consulate
- Once approved, register with Migración Colombia and obtain your Cédula de Extranjería (foreign ID)
Types of Residency Visas
Option 1: Colombia Resident Visa (Type R)
A Colombia resident visa (Type R) is typically the end-goal for foreigners who want long-term legal stability. Eligibility depends on the specific basis (time, family ties, or investment).
Resident by investment (what “big investment” usually means)
Colombian investment thresholds are commonly tied to SMMLV (the monthly minimum wage), and many applicants plan around the published multiples. For 2025, one widely used benchmark set is:
- M visa (real estate investment): 350 SMMLV (≈ COP 498M, around $125,000 USD at the referenced estimates)
- M visa (business owner/shareholder): 100 SMMLV (≈ COP 142M, around $35,000 USD)
- R visa (resident by investment): 650 SMMLV (≈ COP 925M, around $232,000 USD)
Some consular guidance also describes the R direct foreign investment route as requiring an amount greater than 650 minimum monthly salaries. Consulado de Colombia
Steps to Apply:
- Gather necessary documents (passport, proof of relationship or investment, financial records).
- Submit your application through the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs online portal.
- Attend an interview at a Colombian consulate or embassy to finalize the process.
Validate Type R eligibility
We confirm if your Type R basis (investment, time, or family) qualifies and what documents Colombia expects before you apply.
Option 2: Digital Nomad Visa
The Digital Nomad Visa is designed for remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who operate independently of Colombian employers. This visa caters to the growing number of professionals who want to live in Colombia while working for international clients or companies.
Requirements:
- Proof of remote employment or freelance work outside Colombia.
- Meet the minimum income threshold set by Colombian authorities.
- Have health insurance valid for the duration of your stay.
Steps to Apply:
- Compile documents such as proof of income, contracts, and insurance policies.
- Submit your application online via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Complete an in-person consular appointment to finalize your application.
Option 3: Colombian Investment Visa (Type M)
The Colombian Investment Visa (Type M) is aimed at individuals who make significant financial contributions to Colombia’s economy through investments in real estate or businesses. This visa can be a pathway to residency in Colombia, but eligibility depends on meeting the correct investment threshold and presenting properly structured evidence.
If you want to confirm whether your investment route fits your long-term plan and how to document it correctly, see our Immigration Services here.
Requirements:
- Minimum investment amount as determined by Colombian law.
- Documentation proving your investment, such as real estate deeds or business registration.
Steps to Apply:
- Ensure your investment complies with legal standards and acquire proper documentation.
- Apply online through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ platform.
- Complete the process with an in-person appointment at the consulate.
General Requirements for Colombia Residency Visas
Most applicants will need:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months of validity
- Proof of income, investment, or family relationship
- Criminal background check (apostilled and translated)
- Passport-size photo
- Proof of health insurance
- Completed application form
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While the process of obtaining a Colombian Residency Visa is straightforward, certain pitfalls can cause delays or rejections:
- Incomplete Documentation: Ensure all required documents are accurate, complete, and up-to-date.
- Misunderstanding Visa Criteria: Each visa type has unique requirements. Research thoroughly or consult a professional. For a detailed guide on residency visa requirements, check out our complete guide here.
- Ignoring Professional Help: Working with experts can help avoid common legal hurdles.
Choose the right Colombian residency visa path
The fastest plan is not always the safest. We review your goal (retirement, family, investment, business) and align it with a compliant strategy for residency in Colombia—before mistakes create delays or resets.
Benefits of a Colombian Residency Visa
Acquiring a residency visa in Colombia South America opens the door to numerous advantages:
- Stability: Unlike tourist visas, residency visas provide long-term security, eliminating the need for frequent renewals.
- Legal Work Opportunities: Many residency visas allow you to work legally, opening pathways to career growth.
- Simplified Business Operations: Residency can streamline processes for starting or managing a business in Colombia.
- Access to Social Services: Residency often grants access to Colombia’s healthcare and education systems.
- Path to Citizenship: A residency visa can serve as a step toward obtaining Colombian citizenship.
Take the First Step Toward Your Residency in Colombia!
Ready to begin your journey with a colombian residency visa? At Colombia Law Connection, we specialize in guiding you through the application process for visas like the Colombian Resident Visa, ensuring your transition is smooth and hassle-free. Let us help you achieve your goals, whether it’s building a life, investing, or starting a business in Colombia.
FAQs About Colombian Residency Visa (Type R) and Residency in Colombia
The key difference is that an M visa is purpose-based and time-limited, while the Type R is the long-term residency status you reach once you qualify under the correct pathway.
If you want guidance on the right pathway, visit our Immigration Services .
