Immigration regime and visas

A visa is an authorization granted to a foreign national to enter and remain in Colombia. Visas are issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or through Colombian consulates abroad. As a special administrative unit within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Colombia Migration is responsible for monitoring and carrying out migratory controls within Colombia.

There are three types of visas. However, for short-term visits for the purpose of doing business, providing urgent technical services, or tourism, Colombia does not require a visitor visa for foreign nationals from the following countries:

Countries that do not require a visa:

Types of visa in Colombia:

• Visitor visa, or "V" type visa, valid for up to 2 years based on the activity to be carried out in Colombia by the foreigner.
• Immigrant visa, or type "M" visa, valid for up to 3 years or less depending on the duration of the contract or study program.
• Resident visa, or type "R" visa, valid indefinitely. However, this visa is issued for 5 years and shall be renewed at the end of each term.

For more information about migration, visit Chapter 6 of the Legal Guide for doing business in Colombia.