Colombia - work
Work VisaM-5
The M-5 is the Migrant visa category for foreigners with a job offer from a Colombian employer. It requires a formal employment contract with a company registered in Colombia. The employer must sponsor the visa and assumes legal responsibility for the worker during the visa period. Because it is an M-category visa, time spent on M-5 counts toward the 5-year Resident (R) visa track.
Who this visa is for
- Foreigners offered employment by a Colombian company
- Intracompany transfers to a Colombian subsidiary
- Specialized professionals hired by Colombian organizations
Requirements
- Employment contract
Signed contract with a Colombian employer, duly stamped, specifying role, salary and duration.
- Employer registration proof
Certificate of existence from the Cámara de Comercio (Chamber of Commerce) for the employer, not older than 90 days.
- Sponsorship letter
Signed letter from the employer requesting the visa and committing to cover exit costs if the contract ends.
- Professional credentials
Diploma, license or certifications relevant to the role, apostilled and translated.
- Valid passport
Minimum 6 months validity.
- Photo and health insurance
3x4 white-background photo and health coverage.
Fees
| Fee | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Study fee | USD 54 | |
| Issuance fee | USD 230 | Varies by nationality reciprocity table. |
Application steps
- 1. Secure contract
Receive a formal job offer and signed employment contract from the Colombian employer.
- 2. Employer prepares sponsorship docs
Employer provides Camara de Comercio certificate and sponsorship letter.
- 3. Apply on SITAC
Complete the M-5 application online with all documents scanned.
- 4. Pay study fee
USD 54 online.
- 5. Respond to requests
Provide additional documents if the consulate asks, within 30 days.
- 6. Pay issuance fee
USD 230 upon approval.
- 7. Register with Migracion Colombia
Within 15 days of arrival. Obtain Cedula de Extranjeria.
Official government source
Always verify the current fees, requirements and forms at the official source before applying:
Ask about the Work VisaM-5
Grounded on this page. Answers are informational, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
Can I switch Colombian employers on an M-5 Work Visa?
Not automatically. The M-5 is tied to a specific sponsoring employer. If you change jobs, you must apply for a new M-5 with the new employer. Notify Migracion Colombia within 15 days of any job change.
Does my family get a visa with my M-5?
Yes. Spouses and minor children can apply for an M visa as beneficiaries. Each beneficiary pays separate fees, and their visa is linked to your status.
What is the minimum salary for the Colombia Work Visa?
There is no fixed minimum in the regulations, but the salary must comply with Colombian labor law for the role and be consistent with market rates. Cancilleria can reject applications where the contract salary looks artificially low.