Colombia Business Investor Visa (M-6 Visa)

Nadia Dardón

Immigration Content Writer

Last update 21 January, 2026

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Ease of Obtaining Visa 3.0

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Quick Visa Facts

Visa length 1–3 years

Possible to extend? Yes, as long as the investment is maintained and all visa conditions are met.

Who can apply? Foreign investors in Colombian businesses.

Minimum Income Requirements 100 SMMLV (~COP 140–150M / USD 35–38k) for business.

Time for visa applications 15–30 business days approximately.

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Colombia has quietly become one of Latin America’s most attractive destinations for foreign investors, not just because of its growing economy and lifestyle appeal, but also because of its flexible and accessible immigration options. Among them, the Colombia M-6 Visa, officially known as the Visa M – Inversionista (Investor Visa), stands out as a practical pathway for foreigners who want to live in the country through a qualifying investment.

This visa allows non-Colombian nationals to obtain temporary residency in Colombia by making a registered investment, such as investing in a Colombian company or establishing a business. More importantly, it offers a clear legal route toward permanent residency, making it a popular option for entrepreneurs and long-term investors looking to build a future in Colombia.

In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about the Colombia M-6 Investor Visa, how it works, who qualifies, the official requirements, and how it fits into Colombia’s broader immigration system.

Colombia M-6 Visa Overview

The Colombian M-6 Visa, officially classified by the Colombian government as the Visa M – Inversionista (Investor Visa), is a temporary residence visa designed for foreign nationals who make a qualifying investment in Colombia. It forms part of the Migrante (M) visa category and is regulated under Resolution 5477 of 2022, which modernized and consolidated Colombia’s current immigration framework.

This visa came into effect with the implementation of Resolution 5477 in October 2022, replacing older investor visa structures and clearly defining investment-based pathways to legal stay and long-term residence. Since then, it has become one of the most commonly used visas for entrepreneurs, investors, and foreigners seeking a stable legal status in Colombia through economic participation.

The M-6 Investor Visa allows eligible applicants to live in Colombia for an extended period by maintaining a registered foreign investment, typically through a Colombian company or business activity. While it is not a permanent residence visa on its own, it counts toward the time required to apply for a Resident (R) Visa, making it a strategic option for those planning a long-term stay.

Who Is It For?

The Colombian M-6 Visa is intended for foreign investors who have made, or plan to make, a qualifying investment in Colombia using legally transferred foreign capital. It is especially suitable for:

Entrepreneurs establishing or investing in a Colombian company.
Business owners expanding operations into Colombia.
Investors seeking temporary residency tied to economic activity.
Foreign nationals looking for a structured path toward permanent residency.

This visa is commonly used by expats, digital entrepreneurs, and location-independent professionals who want legal residence while actively participating in Colombia’s economy.

What Does It Allow You to Do?

The M-6 Investor Visa allows you to reside legally in Colombia for the duration of the visa while maintaining your qualifying investment. It also permits you to engage in the business or investment activity that serves as the basis for your visa approval.

Additionally, time spent in Colombia under the M-6 visa counts toward the minimum residence period required to apply for a Colombian Resident (R) Visa, provided the visa is renewed continuously, and the investment is maintained. This makes the M-6 visa not only a residence solution but also a long-term immigration strategy for investors who want to settle in Colombia.

Colombia M-6 Visa Requirements

To apply for the Colombia M-6 Visa (Visa M – Inversionista), applicants must submit a set of standard immigration documents along with specific evidence related to their investment and financial situation. All documents must be complete, accurate, and, where applicable, issued or legalized according to Colombian immigration rules.

Below is an overview of the basic documentation, followed by the key requirements that are especially important for investor visa applicants.

Most applicants will need to provide the following standard documents as part of their visa application:

Completed online visa application form.
Valid passport (with sufficient validity and blank pages)
Copy of the passport biographic data page.
Recent passport-style photograph meeting official specifications.
Proof of legal stay if applying from within Colombia.
Payment of the applicable visa application fees.

Depending on the applicant’s nationality or personal circumstances, Colombian authorities may request additional supporting documents.

Proof of Investment

To qualify for the M-6 Investor Visa, you must demonstrate that you have made a qualifying investment in Colombia that meets the minimum investment thresholds established under Colombian immigration law. These thresholds are calculated based on multiples of the country’s Salario Mínimo Mensual Legal Vigente (SMMLV), which is updated annually.

For investment in a Colombian business or company, the current guideline is to invest at least 100 SMMLV, which translates to approximately COP 142,000,000 – COP 150,000,000 (roughly USD 35,000 – 38,000) at 2025 wage levels.

If you choose to invest in foreign direct investment (FDI), higher thresholds may apply under specific interpretations and requirements when registering the investment with the Central Bank (Banco de la República).

The investment must be properly registered with Banco de la República as a foreign direct investment in your name before it can be considered valid for visa eligibility.

Proof of Financial Self-Sufficiency

In addition to showing that you meet the investment minimums, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient financial means to sustain yourself while residing in Colombia under the M-6 visa.

Immigration officials will expect you to present recent bank statements or financial statements that show the availability of funds beyond just the investment itself. This documentation helps confirm that you will not become a financial burden during your stay and that you can support your basic living costs, the operation of your business, and any unforeseen expenses while residing in the country.

Private Health Insurance

Applicants are generally required to hold valid private health insurance covering their stay in Colombia. The insurance should provide coverage for medical care, hospitalization, and emergencies within Colombian territory.

This requirement is particularly important for foreign nationals who are not yet enrolled in Colombia’s public healthcare system and helps ensure access to medical services during the visa’s validity period.

Additional Supporting Documents

Depending on the nature of the investment and the applicant’s background, Colombian immigration authorities may request:

Corporate documents related to the Colombian company.
Certificates of incorporation or share ownership.
Explanatory letters detailing the investment.
Translations or apostilles for foreign-issued documents.

Meeting all requirements accurately and consistently is essential, as incomplete or inconsistent documentation can delay processing or lead to a visa denial.

How to Apply for the Colombia M-6 Visa – Step-by-Step Instructions

Applying for the Colombian M-6 Investor Visa is a structured process that takes place online through the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. While the application itself is digital, much of the preparation happens beforehand, particularly when it comes to registering your investment and gathering the correct documentation.

Below is a step-by-step overview of how the application process works from start to finish.

Step 1: Make and Register Your Investment

Before applying for the M-6 visa, you must first complete a qualifying investment in Colombia. This typically involves investing foreign capital into a Colombian company or business structure in your own name. Once the funds are transferred, the investment must be properly registered as foreign direct investment with the Banco de la República, Colombia’s central bank.

This registration step is essential. Without official proof that the investment has been legally registered, your visa application will not be approved, regardless of the amount invested.

Step 2: Gather All Required Documentation

Once your investment is registered, you should collect all the required documents for your visa application. This includes your valid passport, passport-style photo, completed online application form, proof of investment registration, financial documents, and health insurance coverage. Any documents issued outside Colombia may need to be translated into Spanish and, in some cases, apostilled.

Preparing complete and consistent documentation at this stage helps avoid delays or requests for additional information later in the process.

Step 3: Submit the Online Visa Application

All Colombian visa applications are submitted online through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ official visa platform. During the application, you will upload your documents, complete personal and investment-related information, and select the Visa M – Inversionista category.

At this stage, you will also be required to pay the visa study fee, which allows immigration authorities to review your application.

Step 4: Wait for Review and Respond to Requests

After submission, your application will be reviewed by Colombian immigration officials. Processing times vary, but applicants may be contacted to provide additional documents, clarifications, or corrections. Responding promptly and accurately to any request is critical to keeping the process moving forward.

In some cases, authorities may request updated financial documents or further proof related to the investment.

Step 5: Pay the Visa Issuance Fee

If your application is approved, you will receive a notification instructing you to pay the visa issuance fee. Once this payment is completed, your visa will be formally issued in electronic format and linked to your passport.

Step 6: Register Your Visa in Colombia (If Applicable)

If you are already in Colombia or plan to stay long term, you may be required to register your visa with Migración Colombia and obtain a foreigners’ ID card (Cédula de Extranjería) within the required timeframe after entry or approval.

This final step ensures your legal status is fully recognized inside the country and allows you to carry out everyday activities such as opening bank accounts or signing contracts.

Stay Requirements for the Colombia M-6 Visa

Holders of the Colombia M-6 Investor Visa are required to comply with specific stay conditions in order to keep their visa valid and preserve their eligibility for future immigration benefits. While the M-6 visa offers flexibility compared to some other visa categories, maintaining legal status depends on respecting Colombia’s rules regarding physical presence and continuity of stay.

In general, M-6 visa holders must avoid remaining outside of Colombia for extended uninterrupted periods. Spending more than six consecutive months outside the country may be considered an abandonment of residency and can lead to the cancellation of the visa. For investors who intend to use the M-6 visa as a pathway toward permanent residency, continuous ties to Colombia are especially important.

Time spent in Colombia under the M-6 visa can count toward the minimum residence period required to apply for a Resident (R) Visa, provided the visa is renewed without significant breaks and the underlying investment is maintained. Extended absences may interrupt this accumulation of time, even if the visa itself remains technically valid.

Additionally, visa holders must continue to meet the conditions under which the visa was granted. This means maintaining the qualifying investment, keeping it properly registered, and ensuring that any changes to the investment structure are reported when required. Failure to maintain the investment or comply with stay conditions may result in visa cancellation or difficulties during renewal.

For digital entrepreneurs, expats, and investors who travel frequently, planning time inside and outside Colombia is essential. While short trips abroad are permitted, long or repeated absences can jeopardize both the visa and long-term residency plans. Complying with stay requirements ensures that the M-6 visa remains valid and that future immigration options remain open.

How Much Does the Colombia M-6 Visa Cost?

The total cost of the Colombia M-6 Visa depends on several factors, including government fees, investment-related expenses, and any professional assistance you choose to use. While Colombia is considered one of the more affordable investor visa options in Latin America, applicants should still plan for both fixed government costs and variable investment-related costs.

The main costs associated with the M-6 visa include:

Visa study fee: Approximately USD 55–60, paid when submitting the online application. This fee is non-refundable, even if the visa is denied.
Visa issuance fee: Approximately USD 230–250, paid only after the visa is approved. The exact amount depends on nationality and exchange rates.
Qualifying investment amount: For business or company investment, the minimum threshold is typically 100 SMMLV, which currently equals roughly COP 140,000,000–150,000,000 (about USD 35,000–38,000). This is not a fee but a required capital investment that must be maintained.
Investment registration costs: While registering foreign direct investment with the Banco de la República does not usually involve a government fee, there may be banking, notary, or legal costs associated with transferring and formalizing the investment.
Document preparation costs: These may include translations, apostilles, notarizations, and certified copies, depending on where your documents are issued.
Health insurance: Applicants must maintain valid private health insurance, the cost of which varies based on age, coverage level, and provider.

Optional costs may also apply if you use an immigration lawyer, visa agency, or corporate service provider to assist with company setup, investment registration, or the visa application process.

While the upfront investment represents the largest financial commitment, the government visa fees themselves are relatively modest, making the Colombia M-6 visa one of the more cost-effective investor residency options available for entrepreneurs and long-term expats.

Taxes for People With a Colombia M-6 Visa

Holding a Colombian M-6 Investor Visa comes with certain tax considerations that every applicant and visa holder should understand. While the visa itself does not automatically make you a taxpayer, your residency status in Colombia will determine your obligations under the country’s tax laws.

Once you spend more than 183 days in Colombia within a calendar year, you are considered a tax resident. As a tax resident, you are required to report your worldwide income to the Colombian tax authorities (DIAN) and may be subject to income tax on earnings from both domestic and international sources. Non-residents are only taxed on income sourced within Colombia.

For M-6 visa holders who invest in Colombian companies or businesses, any income derived from the investment, such as dividends, profits, or capital gains, may also be subject to Colombian taxation. Companies are generally required to withhold tax on certain payments to foreign investors, so it’s important to maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with reporting and withholding rules.

Additionally, property ownership in Colombia triggers property tax (Impuesto Predial) obligations for real estate investors. The amount varies by municipality and property value, and it must be paid annually regardless of your visa type. If the property generates rental income, this income must also be reported and is subject to income tax.

Many M-6 visa holders choose to consult with local tax advisors to structure their investments efficiently and ensure they are meeting all reporting requirements. Proper planning helps avoid penalties, interest charges, or complications with immigration authorities, as maintaining good legal and tax standing is often considered when renewing visas or applying for permanent residency.

Understanding these tax responsibilities early is crucial for anyone using the M-6 visa as a long-term residency or business strategy in Colombia. Being proactive ensures that your investment, business, or property ownership aligns with both Colombian immigration and tax regulations.

Living in Colombia with the M-6 Visa

Living in Colombia with the M-6 Investor Visa offers a unique opportunity to combine long-term residency with active engagement in the country’s growing economy. Visa holders can legally reside in Colombia while managing their investments or businesses, opening bank accounts, signing contracts, and establishing a stable life in one of Latin America’s most dynamic countries. Whether you choose to settle in bustling cities like Bogotá or Medelln, or prefer coastal regions like Cartagena, the M-6 visa provides the legal framework to live, work, and participate fully in Colombian society. Your investment remains active and compliant.

Beyond the legal and administrative benefits, life in Colombia under the M-6 visa allows for cultural immersion and lifestyle flexibility. Investors and entrepreneurs can take advantage of Colombia’s affordable cost of living, vibrant food and entertainment scenes, and growing infrastructure for remote work. Frequent travel within the country and throughout Latin America is also possible, though visa holders must remain mindful of the stay requirements to ensure their time abroad does not interrupt visa validity or future eligibility for permanent residency. Overall, the M-6 visa makes it possible to enjoy both the professional and personal advantages of living in Colombia with security and long-term planning in mind.

Best Cities to Live in Colombia

Colombia offers a range of cities that appeal to investors, entrepreneurs, and long-term residents. From modern urban centers to coastal hubs, each city has its own unique lifestyle, amenities, and investment opportunities. Here are three of the best cities for living in Colombia with the M-6 Investor Visa:

Medellín

Known as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its year-round mild climate, Medellín has become a hotspot for digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and investors. The city boasts modern infrastructure, coworking spaces, and a vibrant cultural scene, making it ideal for business and lifestyle balance. With lower living costs compared to Bogotá and a strong community of expats, Medellín offers both convenience and opportunity for M-6 visa holders looking to settle in Colombia.

Bogotá

As Colombia’s capital and largest city, Bogotá is the country’s political, financial, and cultural hub. It provides access to international business networks, high-quality healthcare, and top universities, which makes it especially attractive for investors managing corporate ventures. The city’s diverse neighborhoods offer a variety of lifestyles, from bustling urban centers to quieter residential areas, allowing visa holders to choose a setting that fits both professional and personal needs.

Cartagena

For those seeking a coastal lifestyle, Cartagena combines Caribbean charm with modern conveniences. The city is famous for its historic old town, beaches, and growing tourism sector, which presents investment opportunities in hospitality, real estate, and services. Cartagena is ideal for M-6 visa holders who want a relaxed, scenic environment while maintaining legal residency and access to business opportunities along Colombia’s northern coast.

Cost of Living

The official currency of Colombia is the Colombian Peso (COP). 1 USD ≈ 3,900 COP on average, though exchange rates fluctuate daily based on market conditions.

The average net monthly salary in Colombia is around ₱3,350,000 COP, which equates to approximately $860 USD per month (based on recent estimates of average earnings in the country).

Here’s a rundown of what you should expect to pay in different cities:

Medellín

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – $400–$700 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – $800–$1,200 per month
Basic Utilities – $55–$85 per month (electricity, water, gas, trash)
Wi‑Fi – $20–$30 per month for a standard home internet connection with good speed
Public Transport – $0.80–$1.00 one‑way for metro/bus rides
Groceries (2 people) – $180–$300 per month,

Bogotá

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – $320–$500 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – $800–$1,200 per month
Basic Utilities – $50–$90 per month, depending on usage and building
Wi‑Fi – $20–$30 per month for reliable broadband service
Public Transport – ~$0.80–$1.00 one‑way on TransMilenio or local buses
Groceries (2 people) – $200–$350 per month

Cartagena

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – $420–$650 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – $690–$1,000 per month
Basic Utilities – $90–$110 per month (higher due to coastal A/C use)
Wi‑Fi – $22–$28 per month for standard broadband plans
Public Transport – $0.90–$1.00 one‑way for buses and local transit
Groceries (2 people) – $200–$350 per month

FAQs

What is the Colombia M-6 Visa?

The M-6 Visa, officially called the Visa M – Inversionista (Investor Visa), is a temporary residence visa for foreigners who make a qualifying investment in Colombia. It allows investors to live in Colombia legally while managing their business or investment, and it counts toward the time needed to apply for permanent residency.

How much do I need to invest to qualify for the M-6 Visa?

Investment requirements depend on the type of investment. For business or company investments, the minimum is around 100 SMMLV (roughly COP 140–150 million / USD 35–38k). For real estate investments, the minimum is higher, around 350 SMMLV (approximately COP 500 million / USD 115–130k). All investments must be properly registered with Banco de la República.

Can I travel outside Colombia while holding the M-6 Visa?

Yes, short trips abroad are permitted. However, visa holders should avoid staying outside Colombia for more than six consecutive months, as this may be considered abandonment of residency and could affect visa validity and eligibility for permanent residency.

Does the M-6 Visa allow me to work in Colombia?

The M-6 Visa primarily allows investors to manage or operate the business that forms the basis of their investment. While it does not automatically grant employment rights in unrelated jobs, many visa holders run businesses, invest, or provide consultancy under the terms of the visa.

How long is the M-6 Visa valid, and can it be renewed?

The M-6 Visa is typically granted for 1 to 3 years, depending on the type and size of investment. It can be renewed as long as the investment is maintained and all visa conditions are met. Time spent in Colombia on an M-6 visa counts toward the residency requirement for applying for a Resident (R) Visa.

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