Moving to Colombia: Visas, Residency, and How to Stay Long-Term

If you’ve been dreaming of lush mountain landscapes, vibrant cities, a low cost of living, and a culture that’s both warm and deeply rooted — Colombia may be calling.

From the energy of Medellín and the colonial charm of Cartagena to the laid-back Caribbean coast and the coffee-scented hills of Salento, Colombia offers a rich lifestyle at a sustainable pace.

But how do you stay legally — and for how long? Whether you’re traveling, freelancing, retiring, or planning a long-term move, this guide will walk you through Colombia’s visa and residency options — including a path to citizenship if you're feeling ready to truly settle in.

✈️ Short-Term Stay: Tourist Entry

Many passport holders can enter Colombia visa-free and stay as a tourist for up to 90 days.

✅ Who qualifies?

• U.S., Canada, EU countries, UK, Australia, New Zealand, most Latin American countries

🌍 Key Info:

• You’ll receive a 90-day tourist stamp on arrival (no visa application needed)

• You can extend once for an additional 90 days, giving you up to 180 days in a calendar year

• Extensions can be applied for online through Migración Colombia or in person at a local immigration office

🧠 Tip:The 180-day rule is strictly enforced — overstaying may lead to fines or being banned from re-entry.

💻 Digital Nomad & Remote Work Visas

Colombia officially launched a Digital Nomad Visa (Type V) in 2023 — making it easier than ever to live and work remotely from this beautiful country.

📄 Requirements:

• Valid passport from a visa-exempt country

• Proof of income of at least 3 million COP/month (~$700–$800 USD)

• Remote work contract or proof of self-employment outside Colombia

• Health insurance that covers your stay

• Application fee and digital paperwork

🧳 Valid for:

• Up to 2 years

✅ You can open a bank account and rent long-term with this visa

⛔ You cannot work for a Colombian company on this visa

This is a great option for digital nomads, entrepreneurs, online coaches, or freelancers who want longer stability without permanent residency.

🏡 Long-Term Stay: M-Type (Migrant) Visas

If you're planning to stay longer than a couple of years, Colombia offers Migrant Visas for various life situations:

1. M-Work (M5, M9, M11, etc.)

Issued for those employed by Colombian companies or starting a business in Colombia.

2. M-Independent Professional (Freelancers)

For remote freelancers or independent contractors earning income from abroad or through global clients.

3. M-Marriage/Partnership

Married or in a de facto relationship with a Colombian citizen? You may qualify for an M-type family visa.

4. M-Retirement (Pensionado)

If you're over 65 and receive a monthly pension of around $800 USD or more, you can apply for this visa.

5. M-Real Estate Investor

Invest at least 350 times the Colombian monthly minimum wage (~$80,000 USD+) in real estate and become eligible for residency.

🌍 Most M visas are valid for:

• 1 to 3 years

• Renewable, and eligible for permanent residency after 5 years of continuous stay

📜 Permanent Residency (Type R Visa)

If you’ve lived in Colombia on a migrant visa for 5 consecutive years, you may be eligible to apply for Permanent Residency (R-Type Visa).

🧾 Requirements:

• 5 years of uninterrupted residence on a qualifying visa (2 years if married to a Colombian)

• No criminal record

• Proof of consistent income or savings

• Application through Migración Colombia

• One-time visa — does not need to be renewed

✅ You’ll also gain access to benefits like local healthcare and simplified re-entry

🛂 Path to Citizenship

Yes, Colombia does allow naturalization — and the process is relatively straightforward compared to many countries.

To apply for Colombian citizenship, you typically need:

• 5 years of permanent residency (or 2 years if married to a Colombian)

• Clean legal record

• Ability to demonstrate integration — including basic Spanish and knowledge of Colombian culture and values

• Declaration of intention to live in Colombia permanently

🇨🇴 Dual Citizenship Allowed

Colombia allows you to maintain your original citizenship, making it an attractive option for long-term expats and families.

🧠 Tip:If you're already on an M visa and plan to stay long-term, track your residency time carefully and maintain uninterrupted status to qualify faster.

🧭 Final Thoughts: A Country That Welcomes the Wild

Colombia is a place that surprises you — not just with beauty, but with how it holds you.

Whether you're coming for a short sabbatical or to lay down deeper roots, Colombia offers clarity, flexibility, and real opportunity — from digital nomad visas to permanent paths that respect your lifestyle and goals.

It’s not just about escaping somewhere warm or affordable. It’s about choosing a place that supports your freedom to work, live, grow, and connect — on your terms.