Colombia Business Owner Visa 2025: Requirements, Costs, and Common Grounds for Inadmissibility or Rejected Applications

Colombia has become one of the most attractive destinations not only for traditional tourists, but also for digital nomads and international investors who view the country as a solid environment for business development.

Some investors arrive in Colombia with a clear intention to establish their operations here. Others initially incorporate a company for investment purposes and, after experiencing the country, decide to relocate. In both scenarios, the Business Owner Visa offers a viable legal pathway.

Key Characteristics of the Business Owner Visa 

This visa category is designed for foreign entrepreneurs who either invest in an existing Colombian company or incorporate a new business entity, contributing to the country’s economic and social development.

The visa may be granted for one to three years, at the discretion of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Holders may legally reside in Colombia, obtain their Foreigner ID Card (cédula de extranjería)—which enables them to open bank accounts, obtain a Colombian driver’s license, and complete other formal procedures—and work within the company in which they hold an investment.

Foreign investors may also relocate with their families, as the principal applicant may request beneficiary visas for their spouse and dependent children under 25 years of age.

For those intending to reside long-term, time spent under this visa may count toward eligibility for the Resident Visa, subject to full compliance with applicable regulations.

Colombia Business Owner Visa Requirements in 2025

Under current regulations, the application must demonstrate a real investment and active participation in a Colombian business entity. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs typically requests the following:

1. Support letter: detailing the company’s legal name, tax identification number (NIT), registered address, principal business activity, and number of direct employees.

2. Minimum investment: proof of participation in a company or a registered foreign investment valued at no less than 100 current legal monthly minimum wages (SMLMV), supported by bank statements.

3. Share composition for simplified stock companies (S.A.S.): a shareholder composition certificate issued by a public accountant, indicating the applicant’s paid-in capital (minimum 100 SMLMV).

4. Mining and energy sector companies: submission of the corresponding mining title, where applicable.

5. Proof of business activity and financial standing: documentation demonstrating that the company is operational. Although this requirement is formally for second or subsequent visas, in practice the Ministry may request it during the first application. Common supporting documents include recent bank statements, income tax returns, social security contribution records, lease agreements, or local tax receipts.

   
   

Although immigration regulations specify that business activity is a requirement for second applications, the Ministry often requests early proof of business activity based on its discretionary authority. Failure to address these evidentiary requests appropriately may lead to inadmissibility or a rejected application.

Additionally, the Ministry may request further documents such as an apostilled criminal background certificate, bank statements, or any other evidence it considers relevant.

Business Owner Visa Costs

For 2025, the official fees are:

• Visa study fee – USD 54: charged by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to review the application.

• Visa issuance fee – USD 270: payable only if the visa is approved.

• Foreigner ID Card (cédula de extranjería) – COP 280,000: mandatory after visa issuance.

• Additional expenses: notarizations, translations, apostilles, and Chamber of Commerce certificates may incur extra costs depending on the case.

  
  

Because the process involves both the initial investment and several procedural expenses, submitting a complete and well-supported application is essential to reduce the likelihood of inadmissibility or a rejected application.

Common Grounds for Inadmissibility or Rejected Applications

Lack of Traceability of the Investment

Improper routing of funds or incorrect foreign investment registration may increase the likelihood of inadmissibility or rejection.

A shareholder composition certificate and foreign investment registration alone are generally insufficient. The Ministry typically verifies the effective entry of funds into Colombia through bank statements, transfer confirmations, and duly completed exchange forms.

Lack of Business Activity

Although this requirement primarily applies to second applications, it is common for the Ministry to request documentation showing that the company is already operational.

Supporting evidence may include commercial contracts, lease agreements, invoices, and other legal documents demonstrating ongoing economic activity.

Ministry’s Discretionary Authority

Even when all formal requirements are met, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs retains the authority to reject an application based on its discretionary power and the State’s sovereign control over the admission and stay of foreign nationals.

A well-documented, coherent, and consistent submission reduces the likelihood that discretionary factors impact the outcome. While discretion does not imply arbitrariness, weak or incomplete evidence increases the risk of inadmissibility or rejection.

How to Reduce the Risk of Inadmissibility or a Rejected Application

At this point, you may wonder how to reduce the risks and increase the chances of success of the application, for which we share three main strategies.

Preparing Documentation

Before submitting the application, it is essential to verify that all documents are complete, valid, and aligned with requirements established by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. A formal deficiency at this stage may lead to inadmissibility or rejection, even when the underlying case is strong.

Required documentation may include official translations, apostilles, certificates, bank statements, and records related to the investment. A professional review can help ensure the submission is properly structured.

Anticipating Requests from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

While it is impossible to predict every additional document the Ministry may request, professional experience is crucial. Understanding how the Ministry applies regulations in practice can help applicants prepare for potential evidentiary requests and avoid delays.

The Ministry frequently requests recent bank statements and an apostilled criminal background certificate. Some documents require time to obtain; not responding within the deadline may result in the application being closed or deemed withdrawn, requiring a new submission and additional fees.

Seeking Professional Support

Legal representation is not mandatory, but working with an attorney experienced in immigration law significantly reduces procedural risks. A qualified professional can review documentation, anticipate requirements, and develop a coherent strategy for presenting the case before the Ministry.

At JG Lawyers we have more than five years of experience in Immigration and Business Law, an ideal combination for this type of visa, since we offer a comprehensive service from the incorporation of the Company to the processing of the Visa, accompanying you at every step for your peace of mind and security.

Request more information about the complete process of the Partner Visa, with comprehensive advice and legal representation at each stage until the final decision of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Request your case review with JG Lawyers

FAQ About the Business Owner Visa in Colombia

How long does the Ministry of Foreign Affairs take to respond? 

The Ministry has up to 30 days to issue a decision. In practice, most cases are resolved within two to four weeks.

How much do I need to invest to apply for the Business Owner Visa in 2025?

The minimum required investment is 100 current legal monthly minimum wages (SMLMV), approximately USD 36,000–38,000.

What happens if my visa application is considered inadmissible?

Inadmissibility does not restrict the applicant from submitting a new application. The applicant may reapply once the issues have been corrected. A new visa study fee must be paid.

What happens if my visa application is rejected?

Administrative appeals are not available against decisions issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In exceptional cases involving possible violations of fundamental rights, the applicant may pursue legal remedies such as a tutela action. Otherwise, a new application may be submitted six months after the rejection.