Am I eligible for this visa?
If you incorporate a company in Colombia or buy shares in an existing Colombian company equivalent to at least 100 minimum wages, you can be eligible for this visa.
What are its benefits and restrictions?
Up to three years validity
It allows you to live and work for your own company in Colombia for up to three (3) years. It also allows you to get a foreign ID card (CĂ©dula de extranjerĂa).
This visa admits beneficiaries
It allows you to bring your Spouse and children under 25 as beneficiaries once your visa gets approved.
Restricted work permit
You are allowed to work in Colombia exclusively for the company in which you have invested.
Accrue time towards residency
It allows you to accrue time towards residency. After holding this visa for five (5) continous years, you will be eligible to apply for a Resident type visa.
You can lose your visa if you stay out of the country for 6 continous months.
What do I need to apply?
1. Motivational Letter
You will need to provide a signed letter in which you explain the official name of your company, the address, the NIT (Tax Identification Number), the main activity that the company will carry out, and how many jobs the company generates or plans to generate. It is advisable to mention the reasons for investing in Colombia, the expectations with the company, and a portfolio of products or services that the company will introduce to the market.
2. Proof of investment
Provide the documents that support the incorporation of the company or, when you invest in an operating company, the purchase of shares, for a value of at least 100 Colombian minimum wages.
Currently, in 2024, the minimum wage is $1,300,000 COP * 100 = $130,000,000 COP, and provide the company’s bank statements.
3. Certificate of Direct Foreign Investment
You get the Certificate of Direct Foreign Investment when you, your bank or your broker submits to the Central Bank some details about your international transaction(s).
Should you have transferred your funds for business investment in Colombia via a brokerage agency (such as Acciones y Valores or Alianza), they will complete the required information on your behalf and you will be able to download the certificate in the Central Bank’s website.
âś… You will also need to show in this certificate that you have brought at least $130.000.000 (In 2024).
Example:
4. Share composition certificate
In the case of joint-stock companies, such as the SAS, you will prove your participation in the company through a certificate of share composition, signed by a Colombian certified accountant. It must state the number of stocks and their value, which must not be less than the equivalent of one hundred (100) times the current legal monthly minimum wage (SMLMV) at the date of the application.
For second and subsequent visas
Evidence of current operations
Demonstrate that the company maintains economic activity. This is achived by showing solvency through bank statements for the three months prior to the visa application; income tax declaration; social security contributions; lease agreement; and/or proof of payment of industry and commerce taxes. These requirements change on a per case basis.
How much does it cost?
Our Visa Assistance Service
Forget about troubles!
Hiring our Founder or shareholder Visa Assistance service is just $1,350,000 COP
- Initial consultation / Strategy and workplan definition
Our services begin with an in-depth consultation. We aim to understand every aspect of your situation - professional life, family, travel plans, budget - to craft a customized strategy that ensures you meet all requirements for visa approval.
- Documents and information review
We meticulously review all necessary documents and information. This ensures that every piece of your application aligns perfectly with the requirements, setting the stage for a smooth visa application process
- Visa submission & monitoring
With your application in motion, we closely monitor its progress. Our team stays vigilant, ensuring that your submission not only meets all criteria but is also poised for a favorable outcome, keeping you informed every step of the way.
- Visa approval and cedula de extranjerĂa
Upon achieving visa approval, we extend our guidance to include the final, crucial steps. Assisting with the CĂ©dula de ExtranjerĂa registration, we ensure your transition into Colombian residency is as smooth as your path to visa approval.