Colombia Investment Visa: Path to Investing in Colombia

An Introduction to the Colombia Investment Visa

The Colombia Investment Visa is designed to attract foreign investors by offering a clear pathway to residency. This visa caters to individuals seeking to contribute to Colombia's economy through strategic investments. There are two main categories available: the Migrant (M) Visa and the Resident (R) Visa, each with distinct requirements and benefits.

Migrant (M) Visa

The Migrant Visa is ideal for those making substantial investments in Colombian businesses or real estate. To qualify, applicants must invest at least 100 times the Colombian minimum monthly wage, equivalent to approximately $25,000 USD for new business ventures. The M Visa is valid for three years and is renewable, allowing flexibility for investors to grow their presence in Colombia. Applicants must provide documentation such as investment certificates, bank statements, and proof of financial stability to demonstrate their eligibility.

Resident (R) Visa

The Resident Visa (R) is available for individuals who invest at least 650 times the Colombian minimum monthly wage, approximately $200,000 USD. This visa grants permanent residency status and is ideal for those seeking long-term benefits in Colombia. With the R Visa, investors can enjoy unrestricted entry and exit, simplified access to employment opportunities, and a pathway to citizenship. The visa is valid for five years and requires verification of the investment through the Bank of the Republic and supporting formal documentation.

For both visa types, applicants must provide a comprehensive set of documents, including proof of investment, a detailed business plan, a criminal background check covering the past five years, and proof of health insurance. Applications are typically initiated online and may include an interview at a Colombian consulate or embassy. The process usually takes up to 30 days after submitting all required documentation.

Once the visa is granted, it must be registered within a specific timeframe at Migración Colombia to avoid penalties. Renewal eligibility depends on maintaining the investment in compliance with Colombian regulations.

The Colombian Investment Visa offers more than just a legal framework for foreign investment—it provides a foundation for investors and their families to integrate into Colombian society, access social services, and potentially secure citizenship after meeting residency requirements.

Reasons foreigners choose the Colombia Investor Visa

Pathway to Citizenship

The Colombia Investment Visa offers a straightforward path to permanent residency and citizenship. By maintaining your investment and fulfilling residency requirements, you can qualify for Colombian citizenship after approximately five years. This visa is an excellent option for those seeking long-term settlement and the benefits of dual citizenship.

Economic Opportunities

Colombia's dynamic and expanding economy presents numerous investment opportunities across key sectors, including real estate, tourism, agriculture, and technology. The Investment Visa enables you to access these lucrative opportunities, potentially delivering significant returns while contributing to the country's economic growth.

Stable Investment Environment

Colombia has cultivated a secure and predictable investment environment, supported by strong legal protections, a stable political framework, and government incentives designed to attract foreign capital. These factors make Colombia a competitive and reliable destination for global investors.

Lower Investment Threshold

Compared to similar investor visa programs worldwide, Colombia offers a relatively low investment requirement. With a minimum investment of approximately USD 110,000, the visa strikes an appealing balance between affordability and the substantial benefits it provides, making it accessible to a broader range of investors.

Quality of Life

Colombia combines a high quality of life with an affordable cost of living. From breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities to a rich cultural heritage, the country offers an enriching lifestyle for investors and their families. Relocating to Colombia provides a unique opportunity to enjoy its many cultural and natural attractions while benefiting from a favorable living environment.

Tax Advantages

Foreign investors in Colombia benefit from a range of tax incentives, including exemptions and deductions for specific investment types. Additionally, Colombia's agreements to prevent double taxation reduce the tax burden on international income, making it an attractive option for investors seeking tax-efficient opportunities.

Colombian Real Estate Investment Visa (M-10)

The Colombian Real Estate Investment Visa, also known as the M-10 Visa, is tailored for foreign investors who purchase property in Colombia. This visa provides a pathway to temporary residency with the potential for permanent benefits, making it an attractive choice for those looking to invest in Colombia's growing real estate market.

Key Benefits

• Temporary Residency: The M-10 Visa grants temporary residency in Colombia, valid for up to three years and renewable. It allows investors to live and work in Colombia while enjoying the country's dynamic lifestyle, cultural richness, and economic opportunities.
• Path to Permanent Residency and Citizenship: M-10 Visa holders can transition to permanent residency after meeting specific requirements. Once permanent residency is held for five years, investors may apply for Colombian citizenship, offering long-term security, integration into society, and dual citizenship benefits.
• Diverse Real Estate Opportunities: Colombia's real estate market is expanding rapidly, offering lucrative opportunities in residential, commercial, and land investments. Investors can benefit from increasing property values, potential rental income, and the stability of a robust property market in major cities and tourist destinations.
• Accessible Investment Threshold: With a minimum investment requirement of approximately COP 406 million (around USD 110,000), the M-10 Visa offers an affordable entry point into one of South America's most promising real estate markets. This lower threshold makes it accessible to a broader range of international investors.

Eligibility Requirements

• Minimum Investment Amount: To qualify for the Colombian Real Estate Investment Visa (M-10), investors must make a real estate purchase with a minimum value of approximately 350 times the Colombian minimum monthly wage. As of September 2024, this equates to around COP 455 million (approximately USD 110,000).
• Real Estate Purchase: The investment must involve real estate located within Colombia, including residential, commercial, or land properties. Eligible purchases can be for personal use, generating rental income, or business operations, allowing investors to tailor their investments to their goals.
• Proof of Investment: Applicants must provide documentation verifying the real estate purchase and its value. Commonly required documents include the property deed and a bank certificate confirming the transfer of funds to finalize the investment.

Post-Approval Obligations

• Maintain Investment: The real estate investment must be retained for the duration of the visa's validity. Selling the property before the visa expires may jeopardize residency rights and could result in visa revocation.
• Tax Obligations: Investors are required to comply with Colombia's tax regulations, including paying property taxes and any applicable income taxes on rental or sale proceeds. Fortunately, Colombia offers multiple tax incentives and international treaties to reduce the tax burden for foreign investors.
• Visa Renewal: To maintain residency, investors must renew their visa before it expires. Renewal eligibility requires that the real estate investment remains intact and that all updated visa requirements are met.

The Colombian Real Estate Investment Visa (M-10) is a strategic opportunity for foreign investors seeking to benefit from Colombia's thriving real estate market. By meeting the investment and compliance requirements, investors gain access to economic opportunities, cultural diversity, and the possibility of long-term residency and citizenship.

This visa is ideal for diversifying investment portfolios, leveraging Colombia's economic growth, and experiencing the country's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Colombian Business Investment Visa (M-6)

The Colombian Business Investment Visa, commonly referred to as the M-6 Visa, is tailored for foreign investors seeking to establish or invest in businesses in Colombia. This visa provides temporary residency and serves as a stepping stone to long-term benefits, making it an ideal choice for entrepreneurs and business professionals looking to capitalize on the opportunities of Colombia's dynamic economy.

Key Benefits

• Temporary Residency: The M-6 Visa offers temporary residency in Colombia for up to three years and is renewable. This allows investors to reside and work in Colombia, actively managing their business ventures while enjoying the benefits of the country's growing economy and cultural richness.
• Path to Permanent Residency and Citizenship: With the M-6 Visa, investors can transition to permanent residency after meeting specific requirements. Once permanent residency is maintained for five years, holders become eligible to apply for Colombian citizenship by investment, providing long-term stability, dual citizenship options, and full integration into Colombian society.
• Business Growth Opportunities: Colombia's economy offers significant opportunities for business establishment and growth. From technology and manufacturing to services and exports, the country provides a fertile ground for innovation and expansion. The M-6 Visa positions investors to leverage Colombia's strategic location and growing economic sectors while benefiting from the advantages of an investment visa Colombia.
• Economic Stability and Incentives: Colombia is recognized for its investor-friendly environment, backed by strong legal protections, political stability, and government programs designed to attract foreign capital. These features ensure a secure and predictable setting for sustainable business investments, aligning with the requirements of a Colombian investment visa.

Eligibility Requirements

• Minimum Investment Amount: To qualify for the Colombian Business Investment Visa (M-6), investors must make a business investment valued at approximately 650 times the Colombian minimum monthly wage. As of September 2024, this amounts to about COP 845 million (approximately USD 200,000).
• Business Investment: The investment must be directed toward a Colombian company or business venture. Eligible investments include starting a new business, acquiring an existing business, or contributing capital to a business project. This flexibility makes the M-6 Visa a versatile option for entrepreneurs seeking to capitalize on Colombia's growing economy.
• Clean Criminal Record: Applicants are required to provide a clean criminal record from their country of residence, demonstrating compliance with Colombia's security and legal standards.
• Proof of Investment: Investors must submit documentation verifying their business investment, including a bank certificate confirming the transfer of funds and legal documents associated with the business. These documents ensure transparency and compliance with Colombia investment visa requirements.

Post-Approval Obligations

• Maintain Investment: The business investment must remain active throughout the visa's validity period. Divesting from the business before the visa expires may result in the loss of residency rights and visa status.
• Tax Obligations: Investors must adhere to Colombian tax regulations, including corporate taxes and applicable income taxes. Fortunately, Colombia offers tax incentives and double taxation treaties to reduce the tax burden on foreign investors, making the investment visa Colombia a tax-efficient option.
• Visa Renewal: To continue residing in Colombia, investors must renew their visa before it expires. Renewal eligibility requires maintaining the business investment and meeting any updated requirements established by immigration authorities.

The Colombian Business Investment Visa (M-6) offers foreign investors a unique opportunity to gain residency in one of Latin America's most dynamic economies. By meeting the investment criteria and complying with local regulations, investors can benefit from economic growth, cultural diversity, and the pathway to Colombian citizenship by investment.

This visa is ideal for those seeking to diversify their portfolios, explore new business opportunities, and experience the rich cultural and natural beauty Colombia has to offer.

What are the requirements to be eligible for the Colombia Business Investor Visa?

To qualify for a Colombian Business Investment Visa, whether under the Migrant (M) or Resident (R) Visa categories, applicants must submit comprehensive documentation to meet all regulatory standards. Below is a detailed breakdown of the required documents:

Financial and Investment Documentation

Proof of Investment: Applicants must demonstrate their investment meets the required financial thresholds:

• For the Colombia Migrant Visa (M): Proof of an investment valued at approximately USD 110,000.
• For the Resident Visa (R): Documentation of an investment of around USD 200,000.
• Relevant documents may include:

Share certificates, property deeds, or business registration documents verifying the investment.

Certification from the Banco de la República (Colombia's central bank) confirming the registered investment, particularly for real estate or business ventures.

Identification and Personal Documents

• Valid Passport: A copy of the bio-page and any previous Colombian visas or entry stamps.
• Background Check: Police clearance certificates from the applicant's country of origin and any other country where they have resided for more than six months in the past five years. These documents often require apostille or legalization, depending on the country of issue.

Legal Documents

Apostilled Documents: Certain official documents sourced from outside Colombia require an apostille to confirm their validity. These may include:

• Birth certificates.
• Marriage certificates (if applicable).
• Other public documents relevant to the visa application, such as adoption records or divorce decrees.

Financial Solvency

• Bank Statements: Recent statements (typically from the past three months) demonstrating sufficient financial resources to support the investor and their dependents during their stay in Colombia.

Health Insurance

• Proof of Health Insurance: Applicants must provide evidence of valid and comprehensive health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay in Colombia.

Business Plan

• Detailed Business Plan: A thorough business plan outlining the investment's purpose, expected outcomes, potential job creation, and how it contributes to Colombia's economy.

Additional Requirements

• Certificate of Legal Entry and Stay: For applicants already in Colombia, documentation confirming their legal status within the country may be necessary.
• Registration of Foreign Investment: Investments in real estate or businesses must be registered with the Banco de la República, requiring additional financial documentation and investment details.

Navigating the Colombia investment visa requirements can be complex. With professional guidance from Colombia Law Connection, you'll ensure that all documents are prepared accurately, submitted on time, and meet the latest legal standards. Our team specializes in facilitating Colombian citizenship by investment and securing investment visa Colombia approvals, helping you achieve your goals efficiently.

What is the process for applying for the Investor Visa?

Applying for a Colombia Investment Visa involves several steps to ensure compliance with the country's legal requirements and to secure a successful application. Below is a step-by-step guide tailored to help investors navigate the process effectively:

Step 1: Determine Eligibility and Investment Type

• Choose Your Investment: Decide whether you will invest in real estate, start a new business, or acquire shares in an existing business. The investment amount varies depending on the visa type:
  Colombia Migrant Visa (M) - Requires an investment of approximately USD 110,000,
  Resident Visa (R) - Requires a higher investment, typically around USD 200,000.
• Consult Legal Experts: Engage with an immigration lawyer or a consultant specializing in investment visa Colombia to ensure your investment complies with legal and regulatory requirements.

Step 2: Gather Required Documentation

• Financial Documents: Collect proof of investment, bank statements, and evidence of financial solvency.
• Personal Documents: Gather valid passport copies, marriage and birth certificates (if applicable), and any other required personal documents. Ensure all foreign documents are apostilled or legalized.
• Business Plan: If investing in a business, create a comprehensive business plan detailing the purpose of the investment, expected outcomes, and its contribution to the Colombian economy.

Step 3: Register the Investment

• Banco de la República Registration: For investments in real estate or business, register the investment with Colombia's central bank. Submit proof of the investment, along with other required financial documentation.

Step 4: Apply for the Visa

• Online Application: Complete and submit your application on the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. Upload all required documents in PDF format and photos in JPG format.
• Pay Application Fees: Make the necessary payment online to proceed with your application.

Step 5: Visa Application Review

• Consulate Review: The Colombian consulate or embassy will review your application. In some cases, you may need to attend an interview to discuss your investment and residency intentions.

Step 6: Visa Issuance

• Receive Your Visa: If approved, the visa will be placed in your passport. You can pick it up at the consulate or have it mailed to you.

Step 7: Travel and Validate Visa

• Validate Your Visa: Enter Colombia before the visa expires (typically within a few months of issuance).

Step 8: Register in Colombia

• Migración Colombia: Within 15 days of arriving, register your visa with Migración Colombia and apply for your foreign ID card (Cédula de Extranjería).

Step 9: Comply with Local Regulations

• Tax Registration: Register with Colombia's tax authorities to understand and fulfill your tax obligations.
• Ongoing Compliance: Ensure your investment adheres to local laws and maintain compliance with all regulatory requirements.

Step 10: Monitor Investment

• Visa Renewal: Track the expiration date of your visa and apply for renewal as needed. Migrant visas typically require renewal every three years, while resident visas often need renewal every five years.
• Investment Monitoring: Regularly review your investment's status to ensure it meets the ongoing requirements for your visa.

The application process for the Colombian Investment Visa can be complex, but with expert guidance from Colombia Law Connection, you can navigate each step confidently. From understanding Colombia investment visa requirements to ensuring compliance with local laws, our team provides tailored solutions to secure your visa and achieve your long-term goals, including Colombian citizenship by investment.

Can my family stay with me in Colombia under my investment visa?

Yes, your family can join you in Colombia under your Colombian Investment Visa. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of how your dependents can accompany you and the requirements involved:

Main Applicant: Colombian Investor Visa

As the main applicant, you must fulfill the qualifying investment criteria, such as purchasing real estate or investing in a Colombian company. The required investment amount depends on the type of visa, whether the Colombia Migrant Visa (M) or Resident Visa (R).

Family Members Eligible as Dependents

Your family members can stay with you in Colombia by applying for a dependent visa. Eligible dependents typically include:

• Spouse or Common-Law Partner
• Children Under 25 Years Old
• Dependent Parents of the main applicant or spouse

Dependent Visa Requirements

Proof of Relationship

Applicants must provide official documents to demonstrate their relationship to the main visa holder:

• Spouse or Partner: Marriage certificate or proof of common-law partnership.
• Children: Birth certificates establishing parentage.
• Parents: Documents proving dependency and family ties.

Financial Support

The main applicant must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support all dependents. Acceptable evidence includes:

• Bank statements.
• Proof of income.
• Other financial documentation showing solvency.

Application Process

Each family member must submit a separate visa application along with the required documents, which include:

• A valid passport.
• Proof of relationship to the main applicant.
• Evidence of financial support.
• Any additional documents specified by Colombian immigration authorities.

Validity and Renewal

Dependent visas are valid for the same duration as the main applicant's investment visa Colombia. Dependents can renew their visas as long as the main applicant maintains the investment and renews their own visa.

Residence and Rights

Dependents are permitted to live in Colombia but typically cannot work unless they obtain separate work permits or employment visas.

Education Access

Dependent children can access education in Colombia and may enroll in local schools or universities according to Colombian regulations.

Healthcare

Dependents will have access to the Colombian healthcare system. However, securing comprehensive health insurance is recommended to cover medical expenses.

Important Considerations

Timing of Applications

Applying for dependent visas simultaneously with the main applicant's Colombia investment visa can streamline the process and minimize delays.

Legal Assistance

Partnering with an immigration law firm like Colombia Law Connection ensures all applications and supporting documentation are correctly prepared and submitted, improving the likelihood of approval.

Why Choose Colombia Law Connection?

With our expertise in Colombian investment visa applications, we simplify the process for you and your family. From meeting the Colombia investment visa requirements to preparing dependent visa applications, we provide tailored legal services to ensure a smooth transition to your new life in Colombia. Let us help you secure your residency and explore opportunities, including Colombian citizenship by investment.

Common Issues When Applying for the Colombian Business Investment Visa

Applying for a Colombian Business Investment Visa (M-6) can be complex, and several common issues may arise during the process. Being aware of these potential challenges can help applicants avoid delays and ensure a smoother application experience.

Delayed Registration and Cedula Application

After receiving your Colombia investment visa, you must register it with Migración Colombia and apply for a Cedula de Extranjería within 15 days. Failure to complete this step on time can result in substantial fines and complications with your residency status.

Document Compliance

• Apostille and Translation Requirements: Foreign documents must be properly apostilled or legalized and translated into Spanish if they are not already in the language. Non-compliance with these requirements often causes delays or invalidation of the application.
• Accuracy and Completeness: All submitted documents must be accurate, complete, and up-to-date to avoid unnecessary processing delays.

Financial Proof Issues

Applicants must submit recent financial documents (typically no older than three months) to demonstrate solvency. Using outdated or incomplete financial statements is a common reason for application delays or rejections.

Visa Status and Expiry Rules

Understanding the rules for staying outside Colombia is essential to maintaining your visa validity:

• For Migrant (M) visas, leaving Colombia for more than six continuous months may result in visa expiration.
• For Resident (R) visas, the allowable absence period is two continuous years.

Health Insurance Requirements

While not always strictly enforced, providing proof of health insurance coverage is an official requirement. Lack of health insurance can cause complications during the application process or when accessing services in Colombia.

Incomplete or Incorrect Applications

Errors or missing information in the application can lead to significant delays. In some cases, errors require applicants to withdraw and resubmit their applications, extending the processing time by weeks or even months.

Tips to Avoid Common Issues

• 1. Document Preparation: Ensure all foreign documents are properly apostilled, legalized, translated (if necessary), and up-to-date before submission.
• 2. Timely Registration: Register your visa and apply for a Cedula de Extranjería promptly after visa approval.
• 3. Track Time Outside Colombia: Monitor the duration of stays outside Colombia to prevent inadvertent visa expiration.
• 4. Thorough Review: Double-check all documents and application forms for accuracy and completeness before submission.

Why Work with Colombia Law Connection?

Navigating the Colombian investment visa process can be challenging, but Colombia Law Connection is here to help. From meeting Colombia investment visa requirements to managing document compliance and ensuring timely registration, our legal experts provide comprehensive support to streamline your application. Trust us to help you avoid these common pitfalls and secure your visa with confidence.

How Much Does It Cost to Apply for the Colombian Business Investment Visa?

The costs associated with applying for a Colombian Business Investment Visa (M-6) include several categories. Here is a detailed breakdown, including legal assistance fees for streamlined application management:

1. Visa Application Fee

A non-refundable fee of $55.00 USD is required when submitting the visa application online through the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

2. Government Fee for Visa Issuance

Once the visa is approved, a government fee of $275.00 USD is payable for the issuance of the electronic visa.

3. Legal Assistance with Colombia Law Connection

If you choose to work with Colombia Law Connection, our service fee is $1100.00 USD. This includes:

• Document preparation and review.
• Application submission and management.
• Additional legal support as required during the visa application process.

4. Additional Costs

• Document Translation and Apostille: Foreign documents that are not in Spanish must be translated and apostilled or legalized. Costs vary based on the number of documents and the rates charged by service providers.
• Bank and Investment Certifications: Essential certifications, such as the certificate of investment from Colombian legal entities or accountant-verified shareholding certificates, may incur additional charges.

5. Miscellaneous Expenses

• Background Checks: Fees for obtaining police clearance certificates and related legalizations from your home country.
• Financial Records: Expenses for gathering and certifying bank statements, proof of solvency, and other required financial documents.

Total Estimated Costs

While the base fees for application and issuance are straightforward, additional costs can vary widely depending on the number of documents, translation needs, and other services required. Working with a professional legal team like Colombia Law Connection ensures that all potential expenses are planned for and managed efficiently.

Secure Your Colombian Citizenship and Residency Today

Looking to establish your future in Colombia? With the Colombia Investment Visa, you can achieve residency and a pathway to Colombian citizenship by investment. Let us guide you through every step of the process, from meeting Colombia investment visa requirements to managing your application, so you can focus on building your new life.