Colombia Permanent Residency Pathway

When applying for Permanent Residency in Colombia, you will generally need to provide a comprehensive set of documents to support your application. The following checklist covers the most common documents needed:

1. Application Form:
   • Complete and submit the official application form for permanent residence.
2. Valid Passport:
   • Provide a copy of your valid passport, including all pages with relevant stamps.
3. Visa Type:
   • Confirm the specific visa category under which you are applying for permanent residence.
4. Visa Application Fee:
   • Pay the applicable visa application fees. Check with the Colombian immigration authorities for the current fee structure.
5. Proof of Financial Means:
   • Provide evidence of your financial stability, such as bank statements, proof of income, or any other financial documentation required by the immigration authorities.
6. Criminal Record Certificate:
   • Obtain a criminal record certificate from your home country or any other country where you have lived for an extended period. This document may need to be apostilled or legalized.
7. Health Insurance:
   • Obtain health insurance coverage that meets the requirements set by the Colombian authorities. Include documentation confirming your health insurance policy.
8. Medical Examination:
   • Undergo a medical examination from an approved medical facility. The results of this examination may be required as part of your application.
9. Residence Proof:
   • Provide proof of residence in Colombia. This could include rental agreements, utility bills, or any other documentation confirming your address.
10. Proof of Social Security Payments:
    • If applicable, provide evidence of social security contributions made during your stay in Colombia.
11. Language Proficiency Certificate:
    • Depending on the visa category, you may need to demonstrate proficiency in the Spanish language. Provide a certificate from a recognized language institution if required.
12. Employment Documentation:
    • If your permanent residence is based on employment, include relevant employment documentation such as a work contract, employer letter, or business registration documents.
13. Family Ties (if applicable):
    • If your application is based on family ties, provide relevant documents such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, or other proof of family relationships.
14. Legalization of Documents:
    • Ensure that all required documents are properly legalized or apostilled, as per the Colombian authorities' requirements.
15. Photographs:
    • Include passport-sized photographs as per the specified requirements.
16. Power of Attorney (if applicable):
    • If you are using a representative, provide a power of attorney document allowing them to act on your behalf.
17. Application Letter:
    • Write a letter explaining the purpose of your application, your ties to Colombia, and any other relevant information.
18. Interview (if required):
    • Be prepared for an interview, if it is part of the application process.

Note: Remember to double-check the current requirements with the official immigration authorities or seek guidance from a legal professional to ensure that your application is accurate and complete.

Before submitting your visa application, please ensure to review the list of required documents. The guidelines provided on this website will assist you in preparing your documents accurately. By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risk of your visa application being rejected due to incorrect or insufficient documents.

Colombian Online Visa Application Portal

• The Visa Online service enables you to apply for a visa conveniently from your home or office, accessible 24/7 worldwide.
• Please ensure that the information you provide in this online form is accurate and free of errors. Any inaccuracies may result in the rejection of your application without a refund.
• Before you begin, make sure you have a recent color photo (3x4cm, white background, head-on, no accessories) in JPG format (max 300 KB), and individual PDF documents (in black and white, readable).
• The total weight of all attached documents should not exceed 5MB.
• Allow at least 30 minutes to complete the online application.
• If you've already applied online and know your application number, you can use this service to update your information.

The process for applying for a Permanent Residency in Colombia typically involves the following steps:

1. Eligibility Criteria:
   • Understand the eligibility criteria for permanent residency. Typically, this could include having a certain type of visa, such as the Migrant (M) Visa.
2. Temporary Residency:
   • In many cases, individuals must first obtain temporary residency before applying for permanent residency. This may involve having a temporary work, investor, or other qualifying visa.
3. Time Requirement:
   • Spend a certain amount of continuous time in Colombia with a temporary residency visa. The required duration may vary.
4. Documentation:
   • Gather the necessary documents, which may include:
     • Passport with at least six months of validity.
     • Proof of legal entry into Colombia.
     • Criminal record certificate from your home country and Colombia.
     • Certificate of health insurance in Colombia.
     • Proof of financial means.
     • Documentation proving ties to Colombia, such as property ownership or business involvement.
     • Proof of payment of relevant fees.

5. Legalization and Translation:
   • Some documents may need to be legalized and translated into Spanish. Check the specific requirements with the Colombian immigration authorities.
6. Application Submission:
   • Submit the permanent residency application to the Colombian immigration authorities. This is typically done at the Visa and Immigration Office (Migración Colombia) or a designated consulate.
7. Payment of Fees:
   • Pay the required fees for the permanent residency application. Fee amounts may vary.
8. Biometrics and Interview:
   • Attend any required biometric appointments or interviews as part of the application process.
9. Wait for Processing:
   • The processing time for permanent residency applications can vary. Be patient and check the status of your application regularly.
10. Approval and Notification:
    • Once your permanent residency is approved, you will be notified by the immigration authorities. Obtain the permanent residency card.
11. Renewal and Maintenance:
    • Understand any renewal requirements and maintain compliance with the conditions of your permanent residency.

Important Tips:

• Check for Updates: Verify the requirements and procedures with the Colombian immigration authorities or consulate.
• Legal Assistance: Consider seeking legal advice or assistance to ensure that all requirements are met accurately.
• Be Patient: The processing time for permanent residency can vary, so be prepared for potential delays.

Note: Please check the latest information on the official website of Migración Colombia or consult with immigration professionals for the most accurate and current details.