What to Do After Your M/R/V Visa Is Approved in Colombia? 15, 30, and 120-Day Checklist

Getting your visa approved in Colombia is just the first step. Once you have it, you must comply with a series of immigration and administrative obligations within specific deadlines: 15, 30, and 120 days. Following this checklist will help you avoid fines, penalties, and even visa cancellation.

This guide provides an up-to-date 2025 step-by-step process of all the registrations, documents, and obligations you need to complete.

Visa Registration and Foreigner ID Card (15 days)

• Who must do it: Any foreigner with a visa valid for more than 3 months.
• Where: Migración Colombia offices.
• Requirements: Passport, visa copy, registration form.
• Deadline: 15 calendar days from visa issuance or entry to Colombia.
• Failure to comply: Fine for late registration and potential issues with future procedures.

Tip: Schedule your appointment online at Migración Colombia and bring proof of payment.

SIRE Registration (15 days)

• Who must do it: Employers hiring a foreigner.
• What to report: Hiring, contract changes, and termination.
• Deadline: 15 calendar days from hiring or change.
• Where: Online platform of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Non-compliance may result in financial penalties for the employer.

RUTEC Registration (120 days)

• Who must do it: Companies employing foreign workers.
• Deadline: 120 calendar days from hiring.
• Where: Ministry of Labor.
• Importance: Ensures labor control and guarantees access to benefits.

Recommendation: Coordinate with HR to avoid missing deadlines.

EPS and Social Security Enrollment (30 days)

• Who must do it: Any foreigner with a work permit or PPT.
• What it includes: Health, pension, occupational risks.
• Suggested deadline: Within 30 days of obtaining your Foreigner ID.

Remember, affiliation is mandatory and ensures access to Colombia's healthcare system.

Initial Tax Obligations

• Tax residency: Acquired if you stay more than 183 days in Colombia in a 365-day period.
• Income tax return: May be required even without income in Colombia, if you have assets abroad.
• DIAN: Obtain your RUT to file taxes and comply with obligations.

Consult a tax advisor specialized in expats to avoid penalties.

Downloadable Checklist of Steps and Deadlines

FAQs

How long do I have to get my Foreigner ID after visa approval?

You have 15 calendar days from your entry into the country or the issuance of your visa. Missing the deadline results in fines.

What happens if I don’t register my visa within the established deadline?

Migración Colombia may impose financial penalties, and you will face issues when renewing or changing your visa.

Do dependents also need to be registered in SIRE and RUTEC?

No. SIRE and RUTEC apply only to labor relationships. Dependents must still obtain their Foreigner ID.

Conclusion

Getting your visa approved is just the beginning. Following these steps within the established deadlines ensures your stay in Colombia is legal and problem-free.

Need help with your registration? At Servicio Legal, our migration lawyers are ready to assist you.