Visa approved in Colombia: steps and obligations in 2025

If your M, R or V visa was approved, you must still meet deadlines and obligations for your visa to be fully valid in Colombia. Many visa problems arise due to post-approval mistakes.

This guide explains the official deadlines under Resolution 5477 of 2022, employer duties and practical recommendations.

1. Pay the issuance fee within 10 days

According to Resolution 5477 of 2022, once your visa is authorized, you have 10 calendar days to pay the issuance fee.

If you don’t pay:

• The authorization expires automatically.
• You must reapply and pay the study fee again.

Common mistake: many sites mention “15” or “30 days”. The current rule is 10 calendar days.

2. Download your e-visa

After payment, the Ministry sends the electronic visa (PDF) to your email.

• Print it and keep a copy on your phone.
• Required for entry into Colombia and local procedures (banking, contracts, Migration).

3. Register your visa and obtain the Foreigner ID within 15 days

If your visa is valid for more than 3 months, you must:

• Register your visa with Migración Colombia.
• Apply for the Foreigner ID (Cédula de Extranjería).

Deadline: within 15 calendar days after entering Colombia or issuance (if granted in-country).

Non-compliance results in fines and renewal issues.

4. Employer obligations: SIRE and RUTEC

SIRE – Migración Colombia

• Employer must report hiring or termination of a foreign worker.
• Deadline: 15 calendar days.

RUTEC – Ministry of Labor

• Register foreign workers in the RUTEC platform.
• Deadline: within 120 calendar days of hiring.
• Must also report contract termination.

5. Common mistakes and how to avoid them

• Missing deadlines: paying after 10 days cancels your visa.
• Forgetting visa registration and ID: leads to fines and renewal issues.
• Changing passport without notifying: must request a visa transfer.
• Employer not reporting SIRE/RUTEC: leads to labor and migration sanctions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does visa issuance take after payment?
Up to 30 calendar days from payment of the study. May be extended if additional documents or interview are required.

What if I change my passport after approval?
Request a visa transfer. Always travel with both passports (old with visa, new valid one).

Can I start working immediately after approval?
Depends on visa type:

• Yes: M worker, M independent, R resident visas.
• No: V tourist, digital nomad visa (for Colombian employers).

What if my employer does not register me in SIRE or RUTEC?
It’s the employer’s responsibility. They may face sanctions, and it may affect your migration status.

Conclusion

After approval, your visa requires immediate actions:

1. Pay within 10 calendar days.
2. Register and get your Foreigner ID.
3. Ensure SIRE and RUTEC compliance.

Want to avoid costly mistakes? Book a consultation with our immigration lawyers to secure your legal status in Colombia.