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The Retirement Visa, officially known as the Migrant Category M - Pensioner (M - Pensionado), is a popular choice for foreign nationals wishing to retire in Bogota, Colombia. Designed for those who receive a guaranteed lifetime pension or retirement income, this visa allows retirees to reside legally in Colombia for up to three years at a time, with renewal options and a pathway to permanent residency. The process involves demonstrating stable retirement income and meeting other administrative and legal requirements set by the Colombian government.
Applying for a Retirement Visa in Bogota can seem straightforward, but various legal complexities may arise. Common situations where professional legal support is valuable include:
A local immigration lawyer can provide up-to-date guidance and help avoid common errors that could delay or negatively impact your visa application process.
Colombia’s retirement visa is regulated primarily by Resolution 5477 of 2022 and managed by Migración Colombia and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Some key local legal aspects include:
Local rules and procedures can change, so it is important to check the latest requirements with Colombian consulates or immigration offices.
You need a valid passport, proof of stable pension income (minimum three times the Colombian minimum wage), proof of pension source (government, company, or pension fund), and properly legalized documents translated into Spanish as needed.
No, the Retirement Visa does not authorize the holder to work in Colombia, except for certain unpaid roles or contributing to academic or cultural projects.
Yes, you must show proof of health insurance valid in Colombia, covering accidents, illness, maternity, disability, hospitalization, and death.
Visa processing typically takes between two and six weeks, depending on documentation, individual circumstances, and current workloads at Colombian consulates or migration offices.
Yes, dependents such as a spouse or children may apply for beneficiary visas alongside your main application, provided you can demonstrate sufficient income to support them.
If your application is denied, you may appeal the decision or address any issues highlighted by the authorities. Consulting with a local immigration lawyer is advised for appeals.
Pension documents must be issued by the relevant government body or pension fund, apostilled or legalized in your home country, and translated by a certified translator if not originally in Spanish.
Yes, after holding your Retirement Visa for a specified period and fulfilling residency requirements, you can apply for a Resident Visa in Colombia.
You must not be absent from Colombia for more than six consecutive months per year, or your visa may be subject to revocation.
The Retirement Visa is typically valid for up to three years. To stay longer, you must renew it before its expiration.
If you need more guidance, consider reaching out to these helpful organizations and resources:
Contacting any of these resources can provide current information, official forms, and detailed requirements for your situation.
If you are considering applying for a Retirement Visa in Bogota, Colombia, here are some practical steps you should take:
Getting professional legal advice early in the process can save time, reduce stress, and increase the likelihood of a successful retirement visa application.
