Colombia Marriage Visa 2026: Requirements & How to Get It

A Guide on Applying For The Marriage Visa in 2026

Snapshot of the Colombia Marriage Visa in 2026

The Colombia Marriage Visa allows foreigners who are married to a Colombian citizen to legally live in Colombia on a long-term basis. The visa is a popular option for foreign spouses who wish to reside in Colombia with their husband or wife and eventually become eligible for permanent residency. Here is a snapshot of the requirements for the visa, and how we can help you with your application:

Marriage Visa Snapshot:

• Available to foreigners legally married to a Colombian citizen
• Marriage must be officially registered in Colombia or properly recognised
• Applicants must show proof of the genuine relationship
• Valid passport and supporting civil documents are required
• An interview with Colombian immigration may be requested
• Visa can be granted for up to three years

Colombia Marriage Visa – Requirements Snapshot

• Must be legally married to a Colombian citizen - You need to provide an official Colombian marriage certificate, or a foreign marriage certificate that has been apostilled and registered in Colombia
• Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining before expiry, no photo, needs to be a good quality scan
• Proof of genuine relationship - Immigration may request supporting evidence such as photos together, shared finances, communication records, travel history, or other evidence showing the relationship is legitimate
• Copy of the Colombian spouse’s cedula (national ID card) - Clear scans of both the front and back are required
• Passport-style digital photo, 3 x 4 with a white background. This is for the Cancilleria for their records when your visa is approved
• Letter signed by the Colombian spouse requesting the visa and confirming the relationship - This needs to include contact details and information about the relationship
• If the marriage took place outside Colombia, the marriage certificate will need to be apostilled, translated into Spanish, and officially registered in Colombia before the visa application can proceed
• An interview with the Cancilleria may be requested - Immigration authorities sometimes conduct interviews to verify the authenticity of the relationship

How The Law Connection Group-Colombia Can Help:

• Assess your eligibility for the Colombia Marriage Visa
• Assist with preparing and reviewing required documents
• Help organise supporting evidence for your application
• Guide you through the entire Colombian visa process
• Provide English-speaking legal support from start to finish

Contact The Law Connection Group-Colombia today to get professional assistance with your Colombia Marriage Visa application.

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.

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.

The Colombia Marriage Visa is governed by Resolución 5477 de 2022, issued by the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This resolution defines the categories of migrant visas, eligibility criteria, renewal rules, and the consequences of extended absences from the country. All applications are submitted through the official Cancillería portal at cancilleria.gov.co. Understanding this resolution is important because small documentary inconsistencies that conflict with its requirements are among the most common reasons applications are delayed or denied.

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, in the form of an official civil marriage certificate. Authorities may also request additional documentation such as photos together, previous travel plans etc, to verify that the marriage is genuine, as a measure to prevent fraudulent applications. Other requirements include a copy of a criminal background check from your home country (this is a new requirement since 2025), 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 will 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.

Civil Unions and the Colombia Partner Visa (Unión Marital de Hecho)

Not all couples who qualify for a family-based visa in Colombia are formally married. Colombia legally recognises common-law relationships known as "unión marital de hecho" and foreign nationals in these relationships can apply for a Permanent Partner Visa rather than the Marriage Visa.

To qualify, the civil union must be officially registered at a Colombian notary (in a public deed called a "declaración unión marital de hecho") and must have been registered for at least one year before the visa application is submitted. Applications made before the one-year mark will be denied.

The cohabitation itself must be continuous and can be documented through:

A shared rental agreement or property deed
Joint bank account records
Utility bills showing the same address
Witness declarations

Key differences between the Marriage Visa (M-1) and the Partner Visa:

The two visas are similar in purpose but differ in several important ways. The Marriage Visa is based on a formal marriage to a Colombian citizen, while the Partner Visa is based on a registered civil union. With the Marriage Visa, there is no minimum waiting period. The marriage simply needs to be legally recognised. With the Partner Visa, the union must be officially registered for at least one year before you can apply, and applications submitted before this point will be automatically denied.

The visa duration also differs significantly. The Marriage Visa is issued for up to three years, whereas the Partner Visa is only issued for up to one year at a time, meaning you will need to renew it multiple times. This also affects the path to permanent residency: Marriage Visa holders become eligible for the Resident (R) Visa after two years, while Partner Visa holders must wait five years before they can apply for residency. Both visas allow you to work in Colombia without a separate work permit, and neither has a minimum income requirement.

If you are in a common-law relationship with a Colombian national and unsure which visa applies to your situation, contact us for a free consultation.

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. You are required to provide a good quality scan, as a photo of the passport in your hand etc is not accepted.

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, translated and at less than 90 days old, 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 will 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

As of 2025, a criminal background check is required. This document must be:

Issued by the applicant’s home country.
Apostilled.
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. The criminal background check also needs to be a federal check, with the check done by fingerprints, and less than 90 days old.

Proof of Financial Stability

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

6 months of bank statements showing regular deposits. You do not need to show savings or anything like that, just movements in your account to show that you can support yourself in Colombia.
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 $500–$1,000 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.

The 180-Day Rule: Maintaining Your Visa Validity

Holding an M-1 Marriage Visa does not mean you can spend the majority of your time outside Colombia. Under Resolution 5477, visa holders must be physically present in Colombia for a minimum of 180 days per calendar year. If you are absent for more than 180 consecutive days, your visa can be cancelled by Migración Colombia upon your return. Even non-consecutive absences totalling more than 180 days in a year can put your visa at risk.

This rule is particularly important for visa holders who:

Travel frequently for work or business
Maintain a home or commitments in another country
Are applying for the visa while living abroad and plan to move gradually

If you anticipate spending significant time outside Colombia, speak with our team before applying. We can advise on how to structure your plans to protect your visa status.

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.

Apostilles and Document Legalisation for the Colombia Marriage Visa

Several documents required for the Colombia Marriage Visa must be apostilled before they will be accepted by the Cancillería. An apostille is an internationally recognised form of authentication that certifies the legitimacy of a document for use in another country, under the Hague Convention.

Documents that typically require an apostille:

Criminal background check - Must be apostilled in your home country. For US applicants, this is the FBI Criminal Background Check. It must also be translated into Spanish and must be less than 90 days old at the time of submission.
Foreign marriage certificate - If your marriage took place outside Colombia, the certificate must be apostilled by the relevant authority in the country of issue before it can be registered in Colombia.
Power of attorney - If you are authorising a lawyer to act on your behalf during the visa process, this document must be apostilled unless it is signed in person at a Colombian notary.

Documents that do not require an apostille:

Colombian marriage certificates issued by the Registraduría Nacional del Estado Civil
Your Colombian spouse's cédula de ciudadanía
Documents signed directly at a Colombian notary during your visa process

If you are unsure whether a specific document needs to be apostilled, our team can review your documentation before you submit. Submitting incorrectly legalised documents is one of the most common reasons for application delays and in some cases, denial.

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.

Colombia Marriage Laws: What You Need to Know Before Applying

If your marriage to a Colombian citizen took place in Colombia, or if you are planning to get married in Colombia before applying for the visa, there are several legal considerations to be aware of.

Legal age for marriage: The legal minimum age for marriage in Colombia is 18. Individuals under 18 cannot legally marry.

Community property: Colombia operates under a community property system. This means that assets acquired after the date of marriage are generally considered jointly owned by both spouses, regardless of who purchased them. Assets owned prior to the marriage remain individually held. This applies to both formal marriages and civil unions where the partnership has been formally recognised.

Prenuptial agreements (Capitulaciones Matrimoniales): Colombian law allows couples to establish prenuptial agreements before marriage, known as capitulaciones matrimoniales. These agreements must be drafted by a qualified attorney and executed before the marriage takes place. They can protect individually owned assets and define how future assets will be handled. If you are considering a prenuptial agreement ahead of applying for the Marriage Visa, our team can assist.

Inventory of assets when minors are involved: If either spouse has minor children in Colombia, a court-approved inventory of assets must be prepared by an attorney before the marriage can be legally completed. This process can take several weeks if not handled correctly and should be factored into your timeline.

Symbolic ceremonies vs legal marriage: A symbolic or religious ceremony alone does not constitute a legally recognised marriage in Colombia. For visa purposes, only civil marriages registered with a Colombian notary or civil registry are accepted. If you have had a religious ceremony, you will need to also complete the civil registration before applying.

Foreign marriages: If you were married outside Colombia, your foreign marriage certificate must be apostilled by the relevant authority in the country of issue, officially translated into Spanish, and then registered with the Colombian civil registry (Registraduría Nacional del Estado Civil) or a Colombian notary. This registration must be completed before your visa application can proceed.

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 – Your background check must be recent (issued within the last 90 days), 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: Colombia Marriage Visa

Q1: Can I work in Colombia with a Marriage Visa? Yes. The M-1 Marriage Visa includes an automatic right to work in Colombia. You do not need a separate work permit and can work for an employer, operate your own business, or work freelance.

Q2: What happens if my marriage ends in divorce? If your marriage is dissolved through divorce or annulment, you are required to notify Migración Colombia. Your M-1 visa will typically be cancelled unless you have already transitioned to permanent residency (R Visa). In some cases, where there are children from the relationship who are Colombian citizens, you may have alternative visa options available.

Q3: Can I apply for the Marriage Visa from outside Colombia? Yes. You can apply through the Cancillería online portal from anywhere in the world. If applying from outside Colombia, you should confirm document requirements with the nearest Colombian consulate, as some may have additional steps. Once approved, the visa is issued digitally and you can use it to enter Colombia.

Q4: Does my Colombian spouse need to be present during the application? Your spouse does not need to attend in person for the online application itself, but they must provide a signed letter confirming the relationship and a copy of their cédula. If an interview is requested by immigration, both spouses may be asked to appear.

Q5: How long does the application process take? Standard processing through the Cancillería is typically 10 to 15 business days once a complete application is submitted. Delays are common when documents are missing, incorrectly apostilled, or when immigration requests additional proof of relationship. Applying with a complete, well-prepared file from the start is the most effective way to avoid delays.

Q6: What if my visa application is denied? If your application is denied, the Cancillería will provide a reason. In most cases, applicants are given the opportunity to reapply with corrected or additional documentation. If you believe the denial was incorrect, a formal appeal may be possible. Our team can review denial letters and advise on the best path forward.

Q7: Can same-sex couples apply for a Colombia Marriage Visa? Yes. Colombia legally recognises same-sex marriages and civil unions. Foreign nationals married to or in a registered civil union with a Colombian citizen of the same sex are eligible to apply for the same family-based visas as opposite-sex couples.

Q8: Does the marriage certificate need to be in Spanish? If your marriage took place outside Colombia, the marriage certificate must be apostilled and officially translated into Spanish by a certified translator recognised by the Colombian government. It must also be registered in Colombia at a notary before the visa application can proceed.

Q9: Is there a minimum income requirement for the Marriage Visa? There is no fixed income threshold written into the regulations for the M-1 Marriage Visa, making it one of the few Colombian visa categories with no stated minimum. However, immigration officers can request proof of financial stability at their discretion. We recommend providing 6 months of bank statements showing regular account activity to strengthen your application.

Q10: How long before I can apply for permanent residency? After holding the M-1 Marriage Visa for two consecutive years, you become eligible to apply for the Resident (R) Visa, which grants indefinite legal residency in Colombia. After a total of five years of legal residency, you may apply for Colombian citizenship, subject to meeting language and cultural knowledge requirements.

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 Much Does It Cost To Apply For The Marriage Visa?

The Law Connection Group-Colombia charges $1,350.00 dollars for the visa application, which includes the government review and submission fees, and also any internviews that need to be done, our lawyers do on your behalf. Once approved, you will need to pay approximately $150.00 dollars for the physical visa.