Colombia Marriage Visa

Live in Colombia long term through marriage

The Colombian Marriage Visa: Your Guide to Residency Through Marriage

For those who have tied the knot with a Colombian citizen, the Colombian Marriage Visa (Visa de Cónyuge) offers an opportunity to live and work in Colombia legally. This visa is a straightforward pathway to residency for spouses and reflects Colombia's recognition of the importance of family unity.

In this detailed guide, The Law Connection Group Colombia breaks down everything you need to know about the Marriage Visa—its benefits, eligibility requirements, application process, and more.

What is the Colombian Marriage Visa?

The Colombian Marriage Visa, officially known as the M-1 Visa, is a residency visa granted to foreigners who are legally married to Colombian nationals. This visa allows foreign spouses to live, work, and establish themselves in Colombia while maintaining legal status. It is typically issued for up to three years and can be renewed as long as the marriage remains legally valid and the applicant continues to meet the visa requirements.

One of the key advantages of the M-1 Visa is that it provides the right to work in Colombia without requiring an additional work permit. This means that the foreign spouse can seek employment, start a business, or engage in professional activities without restrictions. Additionally, this visa serves as a pathway to permanent residency and Colombian citizenship. After holding the M-1 Visa for two consecutive years, the visa holder becomes eligible to apply for a Resident (R) Visa, which grants permanent residency. Furthermore, after a total of five years of legal residency, including time spent under the M-1 Visa, the foreign spouse may apply for Colombian citizenship, provided they meet other naturalization requirements, such as Spanish language proficiency and cultural knowledge.

To qualify for the M-1 Visa, the applicant must provide proof of a legally recognized marriage to a Colombian citizen, usually in the form of an official civil marriage certificate. Authorities may also request additional documentation to verify that the marriage is genuine, as a measure to prevent fraudulent applications. Other requirements include a clean criminal record, a valid passport, and financial evidence demonstrating the ability to support oneself while residing in Colombia.

While the M-1 Visa offers numerous benefits, it also comes with certain limitations. If the marriage is dissolved—whether through divorce or annulment—the visa is typically revoked unless the foreign spouse has already obtained permanent residency. Additionally, prolonged absences from Colombia can affect the visa’s validity, as spending more than six consecutive months outside the country may lead to cancellation.

Overall, the Colombian Marriage Visa is an excellent option for foreign spouses who wish to build a life in Colombia alongside their Colombian partner while securing a long-term path to residency and citizenship.

Benefits of the Marriage Visa

The Colombian Marriage Visa offers numerous benefits to foreign spouses who wish to establish a long-term life in Colombia. Beyond simply allowing legal residence, it provides stability, work opportunities, and a pathway to permanent settlement.

One of the primary advantages of the Marriage Visa is legal residency, which allows foreign spouses to live in Colombia without the hassle of renewing a tourist visa every few months. Unlike short-term visas, which require frequent extensions and can limit how long a person stays in the country, the Marriage Visa grants up to three years of uninterrupted legal residence, giving spouses the security to build a stable life in Colombia.

Another key benefit is work authorization. Unlike some other visa types that restrict employment, the Marriage Visa automatically grants the right to work without requiring an additional work permit. This allows foreign spouses to seek employment in any sector, start their own businesses, or engage in freelance work, making it an attractive option for those who wish to be financially independent while living in Colombia.

The visa also serves as a stepping stone to permanent residency. After only two years of holding the Marriage Visa, the foreign spouse may become eligible to apply for a Resident (R) Visa, provided they meet the necessary requirements. This is a significant advantage for those looking to establish long-term roots in Colombia, as the Resident Visa grants indefinite legal status in the country and eliminates the need for future visa renewals. Additionally, after a total of five years of legal residence in Colombia (including time spent under the Marriage Visa), the spouse may apply for Colombian citizenship, opening the door to full rights as a Colombian national.

Another major benefit is access to Colombia’s healthcare system (EPS). As a legal resident, the visa holder can enroll in the country’s public healthcare system, gaining access to affordable, high-quality medical services. This includes coverage for general medical care, specialist visits, hospital treatment, and even certain medications, making healthcare significantly more accessible compared to relying on private insurance or out-of-pocket payments.

The visa also provides ease of travel, as it allows for multiple entries into Colombia during its validity period. This means that holders can leave and re-enter the country freely without worrying about visa expiration or reapplication. Whether traveling for personal reasons, business, or family visits, this flexibility ensures that spouses can maintain international connections while residing in Colombia.

Requirements for Applying

To be eligible for the Colombian Marriage Visa (M-1 Visa), applicants must meet specific requirements and provide various documents to verify their legal status, relationship authenticity, and financial stability. The application process involves gathering official documents, some of which may need legalization or apostille certification, as well as translations into Spanish. Below is a detailed breakdown of the essential requirements:

Valid Passport

Applicants must have a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity beyond their intended stay in Colombia. The passport should also have sufficient blank pages for visa stamps. If the passport is close to expiration, it is recommended to renew it before applying to avoid complications.

Marriage Certificate

A legally recognized Colombian marriage certificate is required as proof of the marital relationship. If the marriage was conducted outside of Colombia, the foreign marriage certificate must be apostilled or legalized (depending on the country of issuance) and then registered with the Colombian civil registry (Registraduría Nacional del Estado Civil) or a Colombian notary before submission. This step ensures the document is officially recognized by Colombian authorities.

Proof of Genuine Relationship

Colombian immigration authorities may request additional evidence to verify that the marriage is authentic and not a marriage of convenience solely for visa purposes. This can include:

Photographs together over time, including at different locations or events.
Travel records or itineraries showing joint trips.
Joint financial documents, such as shared bank accounts, property ownership, or rental agreements.
Communication records, such as emails, call logs, or messages, particularly if the couple has spent significant time apart.
Providing comprehensive evidence can reduce scrutiny and speed up the visa approval process.

Spouse’s Identification

A copy of the Colombian spouse’s cédula de ciudadanía (national ID card) is required to confirm their legal residency and nationality. If the ID is expired, the Colombian spouse should renew it before applying.

Clean Criminal Record

Depending on the applicant’s country of origin, a criminal background check may be required. This document must be:

Issued by the applicant’s country of residence or home country.
Apostilled or legalized, depending on the jurisdiction.
Translated into Spanish by an official translator if not already in Spanish.
Some applicants may also be required to submit a Colombian background check, especially if they have been residing in Colombia for an extended period. A criminal record with serious offenses may lead to visa denial.

Proof of Financial Stability

Applicants must demonstrate they have sufficient financial resources to support themselves while living in Colombia. This can include:

Recent bank statements showing consistent income or savings.
Employment verification letter (if employed remotely or abroad).
Income tax returns or proof of pension (if applicable).
Business ownership documents (if self-employed).
While there is no fixed income requirement, it is generally recommended that applicants show they earn at least 1-2 times the Colombian minimum wage (approximately $400–$800 USD per month, though this can vary). Having a Colombian spouse with a stable income can also strengthen the application.

Additional Considerations:

Some applications may require an in-person interview at a Colombian consulate or Migración Colombia office.
Documents such as birth certificates of children (if applicable) may be requested to further support family ties.
If applying from abroad, it is recommended to contact the nearest Colombian consulate to confirm specific requirements, as they may vary by country.

Meeting all these requirements ensures a smooth application process and increases the chances of visa approval. Properly prepared documentation, along with clear proof of a genuine marriage, will help avoid unnecessary delays or potential rejection.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying for the Colombian Marriage Visa involves several steps, including gathering documents, legalizing paperwork, submitting an online application, and registering as a foreign resident in Colombia. Below is a detailed breakdown of each step to help ensure a smooth application process.

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Documents

Before applying, you must collect and prepare all required documents. These typically include:

Valid Passport – Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Colombia and should have blank pages for visa stamps.
Colombian Marriage Certificate – If the marriage took place in Colombia, you must provide a certified copy issued by the Colombian civil registry (Registraduría Nacional del Estado Civil). If the marriage was conducted abroad, the certificate must be apostilled or legalized and then registered in Colombia at a notary.
Proof of Relationship Authenticity – Colombian authorities may request additional evidence to confirm the legitimacy of the marriage. This can include:
- Travel records showing joint trips.
- Joint bank accounts, rental agreements, or property ownership documents.
- Screenshots of conversations, call logs, or letters if the couple has been apart.
Photos of the couple together over time.
Criminal Background Check (if applicable) – Some applicants may be required to provide a criminal record certificate from their country of origin or residence. This document must be apostilled or legalized and, if not in Spanish, officially translated.
Proof of Financial Stability – The applicant must demonstrate they have sufficient financial means to live in Colombia. Acceptable documents include:
- Bank statements (from the past three to six months).
- Employment verification letter (if working remotely or abroad).
- Income tax returns or pension documents (if applicable).
- Proof of business ownership or freelance work (if self-employed).
- While Colombia does not have a fixed income threshold for this visa, a stable monthly income equivalent to at least 1-2 times the Colombian minimum wage (approx. $400–$800 USD) is generally recommended.

Step 2: Translate and Legalize Documents

If any of your documents are not in Spanish, they must be translated by a certified translator recognized by the Colombian government. The translation should also be notarized if required.

For documents issued abroad, such as a marriage certificate or criminal record check, you must ensure they are apostilled or legalized before submitting them. If they are not properly authenticated, your visa application may be delayed or rejected.

Step 3: Submit Your Application Online

Once all documents are ready, you must apply through the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. Follow these steps:

Visit the official visa portal: https://www.cancilleria.gov.co.
Create an account and complete the online visa application form (Formulario Único de Trámites).
Upload scanned copies of all required documents in PDF format (each file must not exceed the size limits specified on the portal).
Provide a passport-size photo (complying with Colombian visa photo requirements).
Submit the application and wait for initial processing.

Once submitted, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will review your application and may request additional documents if needed.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

After submitting your application, you will receive an email with the visa fee payment instructions. Fees vary depending on nationality and must be paid before the application is processed.

You can pay the visa fee through:

Online payment via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Bank deposit at an authorized bank in Colombia.
Payment at a Colombian consulate abroad if applying from outside the country.

The visa processing fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied.

Step 5: Attend an Interview (if Required)

In some cases, applicants may be required to attend an in-person interview at a Colombian consulate or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs office in Bogotá. The interview is typically conducted to verify the authenticity of the marriage and ensure compliance with visa regulations.

During the interview, you may be asked:

Details about your relationship (how you met, how long you’ve been together, etc.).
Questions about your spouse (background, job, family).
General questions about your plans in Colombia (where you will live, work, or study).

Not all applicants are required to interview, but if requested, you should be prepared to answer questions honestly and provide additional supporting documents if needed.

Step 6: Receive Your Visa

If your visa is approved, you will receive a digital visa via email. This digital visa must be printed and kept with you when traveling to Colombia.

If you applied from outside Colombia, you can now enter the country with your new visa. If you applied while already in Colombia, you can continue residing under your new legal status.

Step 7: Register with Migración Colombia and Obtain Your Foreigner ID

Once you have entered Colombia with your approved visa, you must register with Migración Colombia within 15 days of arrival (or within 15 days of visa issuance if you applied from within the country).

To do this:

Visit the nearest Migración Colombia office.
Present your passport and digital visa copy.
Pay the cédula de extranjería (foreigner ID card) fee.
Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photos).
Receive your cédula de extranjería, which serves as your official Colombian ID for foreign residents.

This ID card is required for long-term residence and must be renewed when you renew your visa or transition to permanent residency.

Final Notes:

The entire visa process can take a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the volume of applications and whether additional documents or an interview are required.
If your application is denied, you may be given the opportunity to appeal or provide additional documentation.
Keep a copy of all submitted documents for reference.
If you plan to apply for permanent residency later, ensure you maintain continuous residency in Colombia, as excessive time spent abroad may affect eligibility.

By following these steps carefully, you can successfully obtain the Colombian Marriage Visa, allowing you to legally reside, work, and build a future with your Colombian spouse.

Tips for a Successful Application

Applying for a Colombian Marriage Visa (M-1 Visa) can be a smooth process if you take the right steps to ensure accuracy, authenticity, and compliance with immigration requirements. Below are detailed tips to increase your chances of approval and avoid common pitfalls.

1. Ensure Authenticity: Provide Clear Evidence of a Genuine Marriage

Colombian immigration authorities are vigilant about detecting fraudulent marriages intended solely for visa benefits. To avoid suspicion and unnecessary delays, you must present convincing proof that your marriage is legitimate.

Submit a legally recognized marriage certificate – If your marriage took place abroad, ensure it is apostilled or legalized and registered in Colombia before submission.
Include relationship evidence – Provide a variety of supporting documents, such as:
- Photographs together over different time periods.
- Travel itineraries and flight tickets from trips taken together.
- Joint financial records, such as shared bank accounts or property ownership.
- Screenshots of conversations, emails, or letters that show communication over time.
Avoid inconsistencies – Ensure that your personal details (names, dates, addresses) match across all documents. Even minor discrepancies could raise concerns.

If immigration officials suspect a marriage of convenience, they may request an interview or additional proof, so be prepared to demonstrate your genuine relationship.

2. Prepare in Advance: Start Gathering Documents Early

The visa application process involves obtaining multiple official documents, some of which require apostille certification, notarization, or translation. These steps can take weeks or even months, depending on your country of origin.

Request your criminal background check early – If required, your background check must be recent (typically issued within the last three to six months), apostilled, and translated into Spanish.
Ensure your passport meets requirements – It must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay and have blank pages for visa stamps. If nearing expiration, renew it before applying.
Check financial documents – Ensure your bank statements, employment letters, or other financial proofs are up to date and clearly demonstrate your financial stability.

Applying early reduces stress and prevents last-minute rejections due to incomplete or improperly prepared documents.

3. Consult Legal Experts: Work with an Immigration Lawyer

Although it is possible to apply independently, seeking assistance from an experienced immigration lawyer can help you navigate complex legal requirements and avoid costly mistakes.

Legal professionals can help ensure that all documents are properly translated, legalized, and formatted to meet Colombian visa standards.
They can review your application before submission, reducing the risk of rejection due to missing or incorrect information.
If your application is delayed or denied, a lawyer can assist with appeals or reapplications, improving your chances of success.

A legal expert is particularly useful if:

You have a previous visa denial or criminal record that could complicate the process.
You are not fluent in Spanish and need help communicating with immigration authorities.
You are applying from outside Colombia and need guidance on consular procedures.

While hiring an immigration lawyer involves additional costs, it can save time, stress, and potential legal issues in the long run.

4. Be Honest and Transparent: Avoid Misrepresentation

Any attempt to misrepresent information or submit fraudulent documents can lead to immediate visa denial and even long-term bans on entering Colombia.

Provide truthful information – Answer all application questions honestly, including details about your relationship, finances, and background.
Disclose previous visa denials or legal issues – If you have been denied a Colombian visa before or have a past criminal record, it is better to explain the situation upfront rather than risk getting caught later.
Be consistent in all documents – Ensure there are no conflicting details across your application, marriage certificate, financial records, and travel history.

Colombian immigration authorities conduct thorough checks, and any sign of inconsistency, omission, or deception can jeopardize your visa approval.

5. Double-Check and Follow Up on Your Application

Even if you have submitted all documents correctly, errors or delays can still occur on the immigration side. It’s important to be proactive in monitoring your application

Keep a copy of all submitted documents – This can be useful in case of follow-up requests or discrepancies.
Check your email regularly – The Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs may contact you for additional documents
or clarifications. Respond promptly to avoid unnecessary delays.
Track the application status online – You can log into the visa application portal to see if your submission is being processed, approved, or requires further action.

If your visa is taking longer than expected, consider reaching out to a Colombian consulate or immigration lawyer to follow up.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I work in Colombia with a Marriage Visa?
Yes, the Marriage Visa allows you to work legally in Colombia without additional permits.

2. What happens if my marriage ends?
If the marriage is annulled or ends in divorce, you must notify Migración Colombia. Your visa may be subject to cancellation unless you qualify for another type of visa.

3. How long does the application process take?
Processing times vary but typically range from 10 to 15 business days. Delays may occur if additional documentation is requested.

Why Choose The Law Connection Group Colombia?

At The Law Connection Group Colombia, we specialize in guiding clients through the Marriage Visa application process. From document preparation to submission, we ensure your application is accurate, complete, and complies with all legal requirements.

Our services include:

Assistance with translations and apostilles.
Expert advice on visa requirements and supporting documents.
Guidance on transitioning to permanent residency or citizenship.

Let us handle the legal complexities so you can focus on building your life in Colombia with your loved one.

How Can We Assist You Today?

If you are looking for assistance with a Marriage Visa in Colombia, contact us today for a free consultation.