Introduction to the Type M Migrant Visa for Business Owners in Colombia
If you're an entrepreneur or investor looking to build a life and a business in Colombia, the Type M Migrant Visa for Business Owners (Visa de Socio Propietario) is an ideal immigration route. This visa category is specifically designed for foreigners who invest in and become legal partners in a Colombian company.
In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know to successfully apply for this visa, from company registration to proper documentation, including the critical step of registering your foreign investment with Banco de la República.
Who Qualifies for the Type M Business Partner Visa?
You may qualify for this visa if you:
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Are a foreign national who holds at least 10% ownership in a Colombian company.
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Have invested a minimum amount of capital in the business, equivalent to 100 times the Colombian minimum monthly wage (SMMLV), which for 2025 is COP $142,350,000.
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Can prove that the investment was made from abroad and duly registered with Colombia’s central bank.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for the Type M Visa as a Business Owner
1. Set Up a Legal Business in Colombia
To apply, you must be a registered shareholder of a Colombian SAS (Simplified Stock Company) or another legal structure. You will need:
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Articles of incorporation.
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A copy of the company’s Chamber of Commerce registration (RUT and Certificado de Existencia y Representación Legal).
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Updated shareholder records.
Pro tip: Work with a Colombian attorney to properly structure your company and ensure legal compliance.
2. Transfer Funds from Abroad
You must transfer your investment funds from a foreign account under your name into the company’s Colombian bank account.
The amount must meet the visa’s minimum threshold, and the transaction must be identified as a foreign direct investment (inversión extranjera directa).
3. Register the Investment with Banco de la República
Once the funds are received, you must register the transaction with Banco de la República using Form F4 or Form F11, depending on the transaction type.
This step is essential. If the foreign investment is not correctly registered:
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Your visa application can be rejected.
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You may not be able to repatriate your capital or profits in the future.
The registration should be done promptly (ideally within one month of the wire transfer).
4. Prepare Your Visa Application Documents
You’ll need:
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A valid passport with at least 6 months remaining.
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A recent passport-style photo.
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Proof of investment, such as the Banco de la República registration certificate.
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Company documentation, including shareholder certificate and tax filings.
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Letter of explanation, describing your role and intention in the company.
All documents must be in Spanish or officially translated.
5. Submit the Application Online
Apply online through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (https://www.cancilleria.gov.co). You can apply from within Colombia or from abroad.
Fees (2025):
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Application Fee: ~$55 USD
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Visa Issuance Fee: ~$230 USD
Processing time is usually 5 to 10 business days.
Benefits of the Type M Business Owner Visa
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Valid for 3 years, renewable.
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Allows multiple entries to Colombia.
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Eligible for permanent residency after 5 years of continuous stay.
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Enables you to work legally in your own company.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Not registering the foreign investment with Banco de la República.
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Failing to meet the minimum ownership or capital requirement.
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Submitting incomplete or non-translated documents.
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Waiting too long after transferring funds to complete registration.
Conclusion
Colombia’s Type M Migrant Visa for Business Owners is a powerful tool for entrepreneurs seeking long-term residence and business opportunities in the country. However, success depends on correctly registering your company, transferring and registering funds, and submitting a complete application.
At 4Sol Group, we help foreign investors navigate every step of this process — from forming a Colombian company to handling immigration and tax compliance.
Contact us or request an appointment for professional advisory services.