Regular employee visa. Employer must show ≥100 SMMLV monthly income (COP 175M). 3-year permit, renewable. 5 years continuous M-visa to qualify for R (permanent) visa.
Mid-career professionals with a job offer and relevant qualifications
Freelancers without employer sponsorship or those without recognised qualifications
Employer must demonstrate 100 SMMLV monthly income (COP 175M); strict document apostille requirements; regulated professions need license validation which can cause delays
At a Glance
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 18+ |
| Profession Required | No |
| Job Offer Required | Yes |
| Sponsorship Required | Yes |
| License / Recognition Required | Yes |
| Remote Income Allowed | No |
| Business Activity Required | No |
| Health Insurance Required | No |
| Proof of Funds Required | No |
| Can Apply From Abroad | Yes |
Financial Requirements
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Minimum Salary | €4,667/year |
| Application Fee | €40 |
| Est. Total Relocation Cost | €2,500 |
Application Timeline
Family & Rights
| Right | Details |
|---|---|
| Family Allowed | Yes |
| Spouse Can Work | No |
| Children Allowed | Yes |
| Work Rights | full |
| Renewable | Yes |
| Time to Permanent Residency | 5 years |
| Time to Citizenship | 10 years |
Related Pathways
Cost of Living
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the M-5 Worker Visa (Regular Employee)?
Regular employee visa. Employer must show ≥100 SMMLV monthly income (COP 175M). 3-year permit, renewable. 5 years continuous M-visa to qualify for R (permanent) visa.
Who is the M-5 Worker Visa (Regular Employee) best for?
This pathway is best suited for: Mid-career professionals with a job offer and relevant qualifications.
Who should not apply for the M-5 Worker Visa (Regular Employee)?
This pathway is not ideal for: Freelancers without employer sponsorship or those without recognised qualifications.
What are the financial requirements for the M-5 Worker Visa (Regular Employee)?
Applicants need minimum salary of €4,667/year. Additional costs may include the application fee and relocation expenses.
How long does it take to process the M-5 Worker Visa (Regular Employee)?
Processing typically takes 21 to 42 days. Times may vary based on nationality, completeness of documentation, and current processing volumes.
Can I bring my family on the M-5 Worker Visa (Regular Employee)?
Yes, this pathway allows family members including dependents.
Can the M-5 Worker Visa (Regular Employee) lead to permanent residency or citizenship?
Yes. Holders of this visa can work toward permanent residency in approximately 5 years and citizenship in approximately 10 years, subject to meeting residence and other conditions.
What are the known issues with the M-5 Worker Visa (Regular Employee)?
Known issues and warnings: Employer must demonstrate 100 SMMLV monthly income (COP 175M); strict document apostille requirements; regulated professions need license validation which can cause delays. We recommend checking the official source for the latest updates.
Are there alternative pathways to Colombia?
Yes. Colombia offers 6 other immigration pathways. Compare all options on our Colombia country page.
What is the cost of living in Colombia?
Monthly costs for a single person in city center: Bogotá: €844/month; Medellín: €711/month; Cartagena: €622/month. These include rent, groceries, transport, and utilities.
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Get Your Free VerdictOfficial source: https://www.cancilleria.gov.co/en/tt_ss/1-classes-or-categories-visas-colombia