Resident Visa in Colombia 2025: Complete Guide to Obtaining Permanent Residency

If you are a foreigner and want to establish yourself permanently in Colombia, obtaining the Resident Visa ( R ) is a crucial step. This visa allows you to live indefinitely in the country and access key rights, such as employment and social security.

In this guide, we explain who can apply, the requirements, the step-by-step process, and tips to avoid mistakes. Additionally, we answer the most frequently asked questions and show you how to speed up your application approval.

What is the Resident Visa in Colombia?

The Resident Visa (Type R) is a migration document that grants permanent residency in Colombia to foreigners who meet certain requirements.

Unlike other temporary visas, the Resident Visa has no expiration date, although it is essential to renew it if your passport changes or in case of prolonged absences from the country.

Who Can Apply for the Resident Visa in 2025?

According to current migration regulations, the Colombian Resident Visa can be requested by the following people:

1️Foreigners with a Migrant Visa (M) who have legally resided in Colombia for 5 years

• Exception: Citizens of Mercosur countries (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, etc.) can apply after 2 years of residence with an M-type visa.

2️Children of Colombian citizens born abroad

• Applies to foreigners born outside Colombia who have at least one Colombian parent.

3️Parents of a Colombian citizen by birth

• If your child was born in Colombia and at least one parent is Colombian.

4️People who renounced Colombian nationality

• If you were previously a Colombian citizen and renounced your nationality, you can apply for a Resident Visa to live in the country again.

Important: Foreigners married to Colombians cannot apply for the Resident Visa immediately. They must first obtain the Spouse Visa (M) and reside in Colombia for 3 years before they can apply for the Resident Visa.

Requirements for the Resident Visa in Colombia

Mandatory General Documents:

• Valid passport and a copy of the data page.
• Copy of the foreigner’s ID card (if applicable).
• Criminal record certificate from the country of origin.
• Proof of eligibility (according to the categories explained above).
• Proof of payment of the visa study fee.

Additional Requirements by Category:

• Foreigners with an M Visa (5 years of residence): Certification of residence time issued by Migración Colombia.
• Children of Colombian citizens born abroad: Birth certificate.
• Parents of Colombians by birth: Child’s birth certificate and proof of Colombian nationality.
• Former Colombians who renounced nationality: Document certifying renunciation.

Tip: Make sure all documents are legible and properly apostilled or legalized if they come from abroad.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1️Register in the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs System

Go to the official visa platform and create an account.

2️Complete the Application Form

Fill out the form with your personal information and upload the required documents.

3️Pay the Fees

• Visa study fee: Approximately $52 USD.
• Visa issuance fee: Approximately $321 USD.

(Fees may vary; check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for updates).

4️Track Your Application

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will notify you via email about your application status.

5️Approval and Issuance

If your visa is approved, you will receive the digital document and can proceed to apply for your foreigner’s ID card (Cédula de Extranjería) at Migración Colombia.

Estimated Processing Time: Between 5 and 30 business days, depending on the workload of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Main Reasons for Rejection and How to Avoid Them

Common mistakes that may cause your visa to be denied:

• Incomplete or illegible documentation.
• Criminal record certificates not apostilled or legalized.
• Irregular stay in the country before applying.
• Errors in the application form.

Key Tip: Before submitting your application, double-check that all documents are correct and up to date.

What to Do After Obtaining the Resident Visa?

Register with Migración Colombia within 15 days after approval.
Apply for the Foreigner’s ID (Cédula de Extranjería) as a resident.
Avoid absences from the country longer than 2 consecutive years, as this may result in the cancellation of your visa.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the Resident Visa cost in Colombia in 2025?

The costs vary, but the visa study fee is approximately $52 USD, and issuance is $321 USD.

Can I work in Colombia with this visa?

Yes. As a resident, you can work, study, and access social security benefits.

When can I apply for Colombian nationality?

After 5 years of residence with the Resident Visa, you can start the naturalization process.

Conclusion: How to Ensure a Successful Application?

To obtain the Resident Visa in Colombia without complications, follow these three key steps:

1️Verify the requirements and documents according to your case.
2️Submit your application in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
3️Avoid common mistakes that may delay your approval.

Need help with your process? At Servicio Legal, we have expert immigration lawyers who can guide you through a successful application. Contact us now!