Immigration Lawyers Colombia

In order to understand what immigration law is, it is first necessary to define some terms commonly used in this area: #### Foreign: persons who are not nationals of a State. #### Migrant: all those who decide to leave one territory to settle in another. In other words, it is any person who changes his or her habitual residence to a new residence. #### Regular migrant: A person who enters a territory that is not that of his nationality by complying with the requirements to enter and/or remain in that territory. #### Irregular migrant: A person who enters the territory of a country that is not his or her own without complying with the requirements established by law for entering and/or remaining in that country. #### Visa: Authorization granted by the authority of a country for a foreign person to enter and remain in the national territory for a specific period of time. In Colombia, [Immigration Law](https://serviciolegal.com.co/derecho-migratorio/?lang=en) is the set of legal rules that regulate the entry, stay and departure of persons in the Colombian territory. These rules are intended to protect the rights of migrants, regulate the flow of migrants and ensure national security. The Political Constitution of Colombia recognizes the right to free mobility of all persons. However, it also establishes the power of the State to regulate the entry and exit of persons from the national territory.  ### Regulation Migration law in Colombia is regulated, in the first instance, by international treaties that protect migrants, which belong to the constitutional block. Among them are: 1. The American Convention on Human Rights 2. International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination 3. The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families. Secondly, there are the internal legal norms, such as: 1. Decree 1067 of 2015\. Whereby the Sole Regulatory Decree of the Administrative Sector of Foreign Affairs is issued. 2. Resolution 5477 of 2022\. Whereby provisions on visas are issued. This law establishes the requirements for obtaining a visa, residency and Colombian nationality. It also establishes the grounds for deportation and penalties for those who fail to comply with immigration regulations. 3. Law 1465 of 2011\. Whereby the National Migration System is created and regulations are issued for the protection of Colombians abroad. 4. Law 1565 of 2012\. Whereby provisions are issued and incentives are established for the return of Colombians residing abroad. ### Objective of Migration Law Thus, it is understood that immigration law is a complex legal discipline that aims to guarantee access to the rights of all persons, regardless of their origin or immigration status. However, in spite of the existence of legal norms that protect and regulate the subject of migration, it is common for people to move from one territory to another in an irregular manner, generally in search of opportunities, and for this reason migration law has had to evolve and create new figures that respond to the current migratory phenomena. The Colombian government has implemented various measures to regularize the migratory situation of persons who are in the country irregularly. For example, the Special Permit to Stay Program (PEP) allows people who are in Colombia irregularly to obtain a temporary permit to work and live in the country. In conclusion, immigration law in Colombia is a set of legal norms that regulate the entry, stay and departure of persons in the Colombian territory. The purpose of these rules is to guarantee access to rights for all persons, regardless of their origin or migratory status. ### Cybergraphy <https://www.cancilleria.gov.co/sites/default/files/Normograma/docs/decreto%5F1067%5F2015.htm> <https://www.cancilleria.gov.co/sites/default/files/FOTOS2020/5477%20del%2022%20de%20julio%20de%202022.pdf> <https://www.oas.org/es/sadye/documentos/FUPAD%5FCartillaDerechos.pdf> <http://www.secretariasenado.gov.co/senado/basedoc/constitucion%5Fpolitica%5F1991.

### Derecho Migratorio Immigration law is regulated by the Political Constitution and the Immigration Law, in addition to other decrees and regulations issued by the authorities in immigration matters in the country, such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Special Administrative Unit of Migration Colombia. This branch of law deals with matters such as: * #### Regulation of entry and exit of foreigners: Establishes the procedures and requirements for the entry and exit of foreigners from Colombian territory. Includes obtaining visas, work permits and other documents. * #### Permanence of foreigners in Colombia: Establishes the conditions and requirements for the temporary or permanent stay of foreigners in the country and the requirements for the renewal of work and residence permits. * #### [Expulsion of](https://serviciolegal.com.co/deportation-and-expulsion-from-colombia/?lang=en) foreigners: Establishes the causes and procedures for the expulsion of foreigners who fail to comply with immigration regulations or commit crimes within Colombian territory. * #### Protection of human rights of migrants and [refugees](https://serviciolegal.com.co/refugee-visa-in-colombia-what-is-it/?lang=en): It establishes measures to guarantee the protection of the human rights of migrants and refugees, including access to health, education and labor services, as well as the protection of the rights of migrant women and children. * #### International cooperation and collaboration in migration matters: Establishes mechanisms for international cooperation and collaboration, including repatriation agreements, information exchange and collaboration with other countries in the management of migratory flows. Migration law, immigration law and immigration law are terms that are often used synonymously but have certain differences. * #### [Migration law](https://serviciolegal.com.co/derecho-migratorio/?lang=en): It is the set of rules that regulate the entry, stay, departure and conditions of foreigners within the Colombian territory. Includes all regulations related to immigration control and the treatment of foreigners in Colombia. * #### [Immigration](https://serviciolegal.com.co/visas-colombia/?lang=en) law: It refers specifically to the laws and regulations that apply to persons wishing to enter Colombia and settle permanently. Establishes the requirements and procedures for obtaining permanent residency, including the necessary documentation and application deadlines. * #### [Immigration](https://serviciolegal.com.co/visas-colombia/?lang=en) law: It focuses on the legal status of foreigners in Colombia, both those in transit and those residing in the country. It includes all regulations related to the protection and defense of the rights of foreigners, including those related to the defense of human rights, access to public services, social security, education and work. According to statistics from the National Administrative Department of Statistics (DANE), in 2019 the number of foreigners in Colombia was 1,738,661 (3.5% of the total population of the country), in 2020, it was 1,800,003 (3.6% of the total population), in 2021 it was 1,864,471 (3.8% of the total population). During the last few years there has been a significant increase of Venezuelan foreigners in Colombia due to the economic, social and political crisis experienced by Venezuela. There has also been an increase in the arrival of foreigners, mainly from countries such as the United States, Spain, Brazil and Mexico. **REFERENCES:** * Murillo, A. (2021, August 14). _Authorities in Migratory Matters._ com. <https://encolombia.com/derecho/leyes/politica-integral-migratoria/autoridades-materia-migratoria/#:~:text=El%20Ministerio%20de%20Relaciones%20Exteriores%20como%20autoridad%20rectora%20en%20materia,control%2C%20verificaci%C3%B3n%20migratoria%20y%20extranjer%C3%ADa> * Cárdenas, N. (n, d.). _Migration statistics._ <https://www.dane.gov.co/index.php/estadisticas-por-tema/demografia-y-poblacion/estadisticas-de-migracion> * _Law 48 of 1920 – Alien Law._ (1920, November 3). Ministry of Foreign Affairs. <https://www.cancilleria.gov.co/sites/default/files/Normograma/docs/ley%5F0048%5F1920.htm> Copiar

Colombia is a key destination for foreigners seeking to live, work, or invest. With updates from Resolution 5477 (2022) and adjustments from Resolution 9316 (2024), it is crucial to understand the types of visas available in 2025. ## Visa Classification in Colombia under Resolution 5477 of 2022 The Colombian visa system is divided into three main categories: ### 1. Visitor Visa (Type V) For temporary stays of up to 2 years, depending on the activity: • **Tourism:** Up to 180 days. • **Business:** Meetings, fairs, or advisory services. • **Short-term studies:** Courses shorter than 180 days. • **Medical treatment:** With a certified medical statement. • **Academic, scientific, or cultural events:** For invited participants. [Related: Learn more about Visitor Visa in Colombia](https://serviciolegal.com.co/en/services/inmigration-law/get-your-type-v-visa-in-colombia) ### 2. Migrant Visa (Type M) Designed for temporary residences. Main subcategories: • **Spouse of a Colombian citizen:** Requires marriage or civil union certificate. • **Parent of a Colombian citizen:** Requires the child's birth certificate. • **Worker:** With a labor contract or service agreement. • **Student:** For academic programs exceeding 180 days. • **Investor:** Requires an investment exceeding 100 SMMLV (Minimum Monthly Legal Wages). [Related: Migrant Visa: Updated Requirements](https://serviciolegal.com.co/en/services/inmigration-law/type-m-visa-for-temporary-residency-in-colombia) ### 3. Resident Visa (Type R) Granted for indefinite residency to those who: • **Accumulate 5 continuous years with a Migrant Visa (Type M).** • **Make investments exceeding 650 SMMLV.** • **Are parents of Colombian nationals.** • **Return after renouncing Colombian nationality.** [Related: Resident Visa: Requirements and Renewal](https://serviciolegal.com.co/en/services/inmigration-law/type-r-visa-for-permanent-residency-in-colombia) ## General Visa Application Process in Colombia (2025) ### Step 1: Access the Visa Portal of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. ### Step 2: Complete the form and upload all required documents in PDF format. ### Step 3: Pay the consular fees (online or in person). ### Step 4: Wait for notification via email (Processing time: 5 to 10 business days).  ## Recent Changes in Visa Policies (2025) • **Extension for Resident Visa Transfers:** Deadline extended to October 31, 2026, under Resolution 9316 (2024). • **Visa Requirement for British Citizens:** Implemented in May 2024 as a reciprocity measure. (Source: El País) • **Increase in Consular Fees:** Adjusted under the 2025 fee decree. ## Conclusion Understanding the types of visas in Colombia helps you choose the right option based on your goals. With the support of Servicio Legal, you can complete your visa application smoothly and avoid common mistakes. Sources (Cibergrafía): • Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Types of Visas • Resolution 5477 of 2022 – Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs • Resolution 9316 of 2024 – Extension for Resident Visa Transfers • El País – Visa Requirement for British Citizens

In this article, we explore recent changes in Colombia’s visa regulations and what they mean for migrants interested in settling in the country. ### Emigration and Immigration in Colombia Throughout its history, Colombia has been known as a country of emigrants, where many citizens have sought new opportunities outside its territory. As a result, the government’s efforts have focused on strengthening ties with the Colombian community abroad. However, recently there has been a change in migration patterns to Colombia, with more and more people deciding to settle in the country. This change requires a new visa regulation that makes Colombia an attractive destination for immigrants from all over the world. #### Resolution 5477 of 2022 Thus, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs by means of Resolution 5477 of 2022 introduced relevant changes in the formalities, terms and requirements for visa applications, as well as the introduction and suppression of some visa sub-categories. ##### First, in the category of visitors or [Visa Type V](https://serviciolegal.com.co/type-v-visa/?lang=en), 4 subcategories were introduced: #### 1\. Seasonal Agricultural Worker: It was created to develop seasonal agricultural work under programs established by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development or the governorates together with the agricultural sector, the Ministry of Labor, health and social protection. #### 2\. Promotion of internationalization: It is intended for the development of productive activities, innovation or research oriented to the adoption or adaptation of technologies that complement or develop products, processes or services that contribute to strengthen the country’s competitiveness, also for activities that contribute to incorporate knowledge to the activities or professions pre-established by the Directorate of Migration, Consular Affairs and Citizen Services, which contribute to the internationalization of the country. #### 3\. TLC entrepreneurs: Its purpose is to facilitate the mobility of entrepreneurs or business people, in application of commitments acquired by Colombia within the framework of Free Trade Agreements signed and in force with other States. #### 4\. Digital Nomad Visa: Applies only for self-employed workers or workers linked to foreign companies to provide remote work or teleworking services from Colombia through digital means. It also applies to start a digital content or information technology venture of interest to the country.   ##### Secondly, in the category of Migrant or [Type M Visa](https://serviciolegal.com.co/visa-tipo-m/?lang=en), visas were included for: #### 1\. Promotion of Internationalization: Intended for foreigners with a master’s degree, doctorate or post-doctorate in basic or applied sciences, engineering, mathematics and related fields, whose profiles are in line with the priorities required by the country in its public and private internationalization plans; or for professionals in areas pre-established by the Directorate of Migration, Consular Affairs and Citizen Services, whose practice contributes to the adoption and/or adaptation of technologies that strengthen competitiveness in the country. #### 2\. Statelessness: It is for foreigners who have been recognized by the Colombian State as stateless persons. ##### Third, in the category of Resident or [Visa Type R](https://serviciolegal.com.co/visa-tipo-r/?lang=en), was included: #### 1\. By application of the Temporary Protection Statute for Venezuelan migrants. #### 2\. Peace Special: Created to comply with Decree Law 831 of May 18, 207, which states that foreigners who are former members of the FARC-EP, who have completed the process of laying down their weapons, have submitted to the Final Agreement for the termination of the conflict and the construction of a stable and lasting peace, and have made the transition to legality. #### Changes to Existing Visas Finally, there were also important changes regarding the conditions of existing visas, as additional requirements were introduced and it was clarified that both the study and issuance process will be completely virtual, among other things. ### Cybergraphy <https://www.cancilleria.gov.co/sites/default/files/Normograma/docs/resolucion%5Fminrelaciones%5F5477%5F2022.htm> <https://www.oas.org/es/sadye/documentos/FUPAD%5FCartillaDerechos.pdf> <https://bu.com.co/es/insights/noticias/la-visa-de-nomada-digital-y-otros-cambios-en-el-sistema-migratorio>