Visa M (Migrante)

Overview

Under Resolucion 5477 of 2022, the Visa M (Migrante) is the category for foreign nationals who intend to establish themselves in Colombia. It groups several subcategories - including spouse or partner of a Colombian, business owner or investor, employee, pensioner and others - each with its own requirements. Crucially, the M visa constitutes proof of residence with intent of permanence: holding one or more M visas continuously for the qualifying period accrues toward eligibility for the Resident (R) visa. The Visa M is issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Eligibility

Application pathway

1. 01

   Check the route fit

   Identify which Migrant (M) subcategory under Resolucion 5477 of 2022 you qualify under and confirm M time accrues toward the R visa, using the official Cancilleria page.

2. 02

   Build the evidence pack

   Assemble the passport, application form and the qualifying-ground documents (and apostilles or legalisations) for your subcategory.

3. 03

   Submit through the official channel

   Apply through the Cancilleria online visa system following the Migrant subcategory instructions.

4. 04

   After approval

   Register the visa and the cedula de extranjeria as required, and maintain continuous holding to build time toward a Resident (R) visa.

Also explored by

Compare Republic of Colombia with

• 🇵🇾 Republic of Paraguay
• 🇻🇪 Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela
• 🇺🇾 Oriental Republic of Uruguay

Related routes

• Visa M Inversionista / Socio o Propietario

  The Migrant (M) visa for foreign investors and business owners or partners in a Colombian company.

• Visa M Conyuge o Companero de Nacional

  The Migrant (M) visa for the spouse or permanent partner of a Colombian national.

• Visa R (Residente)

  The Resident (R) visa - Colombia's permanent-residence category, granting an open work permit and the right to settle.