Resident Permanent Visa (Tipo R)
Colombia
Last updated: December 22, 2025
Permanent (renewable)
$455
3-4 weeks
Medium
About this Visa
You can get a permanent resident visa (R visa) if you've lived in Colombia for 2–5 years on a temporary work, family, or other migrant visa. This is how most people become permanent residents. Once approved, you can stay in Colombia forever, work anywhere, and eventually become a citizen. The R visa is different because it's not temporary—it doesn't expire. But you do need to request a new copy every 5 years to keep it active. It's the bridge between temporary visas and Colombian citizenship.
Key Benefits
- Work anywhere without restrictions
- Bring spouse and children under 25
- Stay permanently without yearly renewals
- Open bank accounts and access services
- Path to citizenship after 2-5 more years
- Change jobs anytime without permission
- Travel freely in and out of Colombia
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Lived in Colombia for the required time (2-5 years depending on visa type)
- Each visa must connect with no big gaps
- Clean background with no serious crimes
- Show you have money to support yourself and family
- Still meet the original reason for residence
- 18 years old or older to apply as main visa holder
- If were dependent child, can apply at 18 if self-supporting
Financial Requirement
No fixed amount, but you must prove you have enough money to live in Colombia. Show bank statements from the last 6 months, a job contract or proof of business income, and a letter explaining where your money comes from
Documents
- Copies of all old visasEvery M visa (temporary migrant visa) you held in Colombia
- Migration entry/exit recordFrom Colombia's immigration office, proving you actually lived there
- Income letterYour signed letter explaining where your money comes from and why you should get permanent residence
- Bank statementsLast 6 months of statements showing you have money
- Proof of continuous circumstancesIf married, show still married; if worked, show still employed or have income
- Clean recordNo criminal background issues
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.