Introduction about Colombia
Country Key Data
- Passport Ranking: Moderate global mobility (~130–140 destinations)
- Visa-Free Travel: 140+ countries
- Population: ~52 million
- GDP per Capita: ~USD 7,000
- Capital: Bogotá
- Currency: Colombian Peso (COP)
- Government Type: Presidential republic
Colombia’s investor visa structure is significant because:
- It encourages economic diversification through business and property investment
- It offers one of the most affordable investor residency pathways in the region
- It aligns with Colombia’s strategy of attracting foreign human capital and capital flows
- It supports local entrepreneurship, tourism, and urban development
- It provides international investors access to a growing Latin American economy
Why Choose This Program?
Strong expat communities and rising quality of life
Accessible real estate market with strong rental demand
Lower investment thresholds than many competitors
Medellín and Bogotá emerging as tech hubs
Opportunity for long-term residency and naturalization
Program Qualifications
Be at least 18 years old
Clean criminal record
Make a qualifying investment under M-6 or M-10 categories
Show legal source of funds
Provide documentation of company incorporation or property purchase
Hold valid health insurance
Benefits
Legal residency in Colombia for multiple years
Ability to live, study, and do business in the country
Accessible investment thresholds
Pathway to Permanent Residency & Citizenship
Investment Options
Option 1: M-6 – Business Investment Visa
For investment in a Colombian company.
Minimum Investment Required
100 times the Colombian minimum monthly wage (SMMLV).
Approximate equivalent:
~USD 25,000–35,000 (varies yearly)
Qualifying Investments: Formation of a new Colombian company, Capital injection into an existing Colombian company, Acquisition of company shares or equity
Requirement:
Funds must be registered with the Central Bank of Colombia (Banco de la República) as a foreign direct investment.
Option 2: M-10 – Real Estate Investment Visa
For foreigners purchasing property.
Minimum Investment Required:
350 times the Colombian minimum monthly wage (SMMLV).
Approximate equivalent:
~USD 90,000–120,000 (varies yearly)
Eligible Properties:
Residential real estate, Commercial property, Newly built or existing properties
Requirement:
Ownership must be properly recorded in the public registry (Oficina de Registro de Instrumentos Públicos).
Roadmap to Residency
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Step 1: Eligibility & Investment Planning
Select investment type, location (e.g., Medellín, Bogotá), and budget.
Step 2: Transfer and Register Investment
Proof of foreign investment registration is essential.
Step 3: Gather Documentation
Police records, passport, property deeds or company papers, bank records.
Step 4: Submit the Visa Application
Online submission + biometrics.
Step 5: Visa Issuance & Residence Permit
Residence card (Cedula de Extranjería) published after arrival.
Step 6: Maintain Investment & Renew Residency
Ensure uninterrupted compliance with investment requirements.
Step 7: Permanent Residency Eligibility
After 5 years on an M visa, applicants may qualify for R visa.
Step 8: Citizenship Option
Requires:
5 years of continuous residency (2 years if married to Colombian)
Spanish proficiency
Knowledge of Colombian culture and constitution
Risks & Realities
Pros
One of Latin America’s most affordable investor visas
Flexible routes: real estate or business
Path to permanent residency and citizenship
Strong lifestyle appeal in major cities
Lower cost of living compared to most investor visa countries
Cons
Permanent residency requires years of physical residence
Language requirement for citizenship (Spanish test)
Colombia adjusts economic thresholds annually
Real estate valuation and liquidity vary significantly
Investment markets carry associated risks
"Colombia is more than a destination — it’s where your family’s next chapter begins. Take the first step today toward a life of peace, prosperity, and purpose.”
Optional Interactive Elements
Residency Cost Estimator Tool
Interactive Map: Schengen Access & Benefits
Compare EU Residency Programs
Insightful Articles
The Real Estate Project
Elegant living in the Austrian capital, ideal for investors seeking long-term growth.
Own a slice of paradise while meeting residency requirements.
Sustainable homes with high rental potential and lifestyle perks.
