Expanding into Colombia offers businesses access to a growing economy, a skilled workforce, and a strategic location in Latin America. Before hiring local or international talent, however, companies must understand Colombia’s work authorization landscape. Staying compliant with immigration regulations is critical to protect the company and ensure a smooth onboarding experience for talent.
This guide covers everything global employers need to know about securing legal work authorization in Colombia, from visa types to application processes, document requirements, and more.
The importance of work authorization
Work authorization ensures that foreign nationals employed in Colombia have the legal permission to reside and work in the country. For businesses, ensuring every employee has proper authorization helps maintain compliance with Colombian immigration law, builds trust with regulatory bodies, and protects the company’s reputation.
Working without the proper visa or authorization can lead to deportation for the employee and penalties or sanctions for the employer.
Visas, work permits, and authorizations
Colombia’s immigration system distinguishes between several important terms:
- Visa: A formal document allowing entry and stay for specific purposes, such as employment or residency.
- Work permit: In Colombia, work permits are typically granted as part of a visa. They authorize foreign nationals to engage in work activities.
- Authorization: This is a broader term, encompassing visas and other forms of permission to work legally.
Types of work visas in Colombia
Colombia offers several visas based on the applicant’s purpose, profession, and duration of stay. The most common categories for employment include the Migrant Visa (M), Resident Visa (R), and Temporary Worker Visa (TP-4), although the TP-4 was replaced under the newer visa classification system in 2022.
M Visa, R Visa, and TP-4
- M Visa (Migrant): Ideal for foreign nationals with a job offer from a Colombian employer. The M-5 subcategory is commonly issued for work-related purposes and is valid for up to three years.
- R Visa (Resident): Designed for individuals who have held an M visa for an extended period or meet specific eligibility criteria (such as marriage to a Colombian national). It offers long-term residency and work authorization.
- TP-4 Visa: Although now replaced, some legacy holders may still hold valid TP-4 visas. This visa was previously used for temporary foreign workers.
Digital nomad visa
As of 2022, Colombia began offering a digital nomad visa designed for remote workers employed by companies outside Colombia. This visa allows professionals to live and work in the country for up to two years while working remotely.
Requirements for a Colombian work visa application
Applicants must submit several core documents, including:
- A valid passport more than six months from expiration
- A completed visa application form
- Recent passport-size photos
- Proof of employment or job offer from a Colombian company
- Relevant academic or professional qualifications
Employer obligations
When hiring in Colombia, the employer contract must outline salary, job responsibilities, and duration of employment. It should also clearly show the employer’s legal registration in Colombia. Employers may also be required to submit a certificate of registration with the Chamber of Commerce.
Employers must also act as sponsors during the visa process. They’re responsible for providing supporting documentation, proving the legitimacy of the role, and ensuring compliance with Colombian labor law. Employers may also be required to register the employee with social security and health systems once the visa is approved.
Step-by-step guide for applicants
- Gather necessary documents.
- Submit an online visa application via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal.
- Pay the required visa fees.
- Schedule and attend an in-person appointment at a Colombian consulate (if outside the country) or at Migración Colombia (if applying internally).
- Await approval and visa issuance.
Expected processing times
The visa process usually takes between 5 and 30 business days, depending on the complexity of the case and whether additional documentation is requested.
Differences between a work permit and visa
Colombia doesn’t issue a standalone work permit as many countries do. Instead, work authorization is included within the M or R visa. However, Colombia does recognize other types of work-related permissions, such as special permits for short-term assignments.
Permissible work without a visa
Foreigners may enter Colombia as tourists and conduct short-term business meetings, attend conferences, or explore business opportunities. However, they’re not allowed to engage in paid work for a Colombian entity. Remote workers employed by non-Colombian companies may qualify for the digital nomad visa if staying longer than 90 days.
U.S. citizens working in Colombia
U.S. citizens must secure a valid M visa or another applicable visa before starting employment. U.S. citizens do not require a tourist visa for stays under 90 days but must transition to the appropriate work visa for longer stays or employment purposes.
M-5 visa
The M-5 is the go-to option for employment in Colombia. It’s typically issued for foreign nationals who have an employment contract with a Colombian company. Other M subcategories cover investment, business ownership, and marriage, so it’s important to apply under the correct one.
How Velocity Global can help
Navigating Colombia’s work authorization process can be complex—especially for companies new to international hiring. Velocity Global simplifies this process through its Employer of Record (EOR) solution, handling everything from onboarding and compliance to visa support and payroll administration.
With local expertise and a global infrastructure, Velocity Global ensures that companies can hire and onboard talent in Colombia without setting up a legal entity. Its services reduce risk, speed up hiring timelines, and keep companies compliant at every step.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. For personalized guidance, consult an immigration lawyer or local legal advisor.
Topic:
Immigration + Relocation
