How do I pay a fine to Migración Colombia?

To resolve an irregular immigration status, you must first request an appointment to begin the administrative process. Once you attend this appointment, an immigration officer will inform you of the exact amount to be paid. After the payment is confirmed, you will be able to obtain a Salvoconducto to either continue with your visa process or leave the country legally.

What are the most severe (egregious) infractions according to Colombian migration law?

Egregious infractions include failing to comply with deportation orders, returning to the country before a prohibition period, promoting illegal entry with false promises, being sentenced to prison without expulsion, or being fraudulently documented as a Colombian national. These can lead to expulsion and heavy fines.

How can I get a Salvoconducto?

To process a Salvoconducto, you must fill out the "Single Procedures Form" (FUT) online, schedule an appointment with Migración Colombia, present original documents, and, if authorized, complete enrollment procedures and pay the associated fee.

How do “extenuating circumstances” affect immigration fines in Colombia?

Extenuating circumstances are factors that can reduce the amount of an immigration fine, potentially up to 50%. These circumstances are evaluated by Migración Colombia under Resolution 360 of 2015 and affect the final economic penalty.

What is a Salvoconducto, and when do I need one?

A Salvoconducto is a temporary document issued by Migración Colombia to regularize the stay of foreigners in an irregular status. You may need it to legally exit the country or to maintain legal residency while applying for a Colombian visa.

What does “irregular status” mean in Colombia?

Irregular status refers to a foreigner who has entered the country illegally, remained beyond their authorized time, used false documentation, or had their permit canceled due to fraudulent acts or social coexistence issues.

What happens if I overstay my authorized time in Colombia?

If you remain in Colombia longer than authorized (typically 90 days for tourists without an extension), you will automatically enter an irregular status and incur an economic penalty when leaving the country or attempting to obtain a visa.

How can I check if I have a fine with Migración Colombia?

You can check the status of any administrative sanctioning process by visiting a Migration Service Facilitator Center in Colombia. If you are leaving the country, the immigration agent will inform you of any pending processes and the amount due.

What are the common fines imposed by Migración Colombia for foreigners?

Migración Colombia imposes fines ranging from minor infractions (e.g., failure to report a change of address) to egregious violations (e.g., fraudulent documentation). Penalties can range from half to seven times the legal monthly minimum wage.

What is the investment requirement for a Business Owner Visa in 2026?

The threshold for a Business Owner visa (M) is 100 SMMLV, which amounts to $175.090.500 COP (approximately $46,690 USD).

What is the minimum investment for a Real Estate Investment Visa in 2026?

To qualify for a Real Estate Investment visa (M), you must invest at least 350 SMMLV, totaling $612.816.750 COP (approximately $163,418 USD).

How much income do I need for a Retirement Visa in 2026?

The Retirement visa (M) requires a minimum monthly income of 3 SMMLV, which equals $5.252.715 COP (approximately $1,400 USD).

How much income do I need for a Digital Nomad Visa in 2026?

The Digital Nomad visa (V) requires a minimum monthly income of 3 SMMLV, which equals $5.252.715 COP (approximately $1,400 USD).

Does the transportation subsidy count toward my visa income requirement?

No. While the total monthly compensation for workers includes a $249.095 COP transport subsidy, this amount is strictly excluded from all visa and immigration calculations.

What is the official minimum wage in Colombia for 2026?

The Minimum Monthly Legal Wage (SMMLV) for 2026 is $1.750.905 COP (approximately $467 USD). This represents a 23% increase compared to the previous year.

Where is the Marriage Certificate update in Bogotá performed?

Our marriage certificate update service is performed exclusively at the Notaría Primera of Bogotá for marriages that were celebrated in Colombian Consulates abroad or at the same notary.

What is the cost and processing time?

The Marriage Certificate Update service in Bogotá costs $100 USD. Once payment is made, the update process with the Notaría Primera de Bogotá takes approximately 5 days.

What documents do I need to update my Marriage Certificate?

You will need scanned valid identification documents (ID cards or passports) for both spouses, and if applicable, clear and precise information about the exact data that needs to be modified.

When should I update my Marriage Certificate in Bogotá?

It's essential to update your marriage certificate if you need a certified copy issued less than 90 days ago to comply with document validity required by authorities, if you will use the document internationally (for apostille or official translation), or if you need to correct errors in names or dates registered in the original certificate.

What is a Marriage Certificate?

A Marriage Certificate is the legal document that certifies the conjugal union of two people, recording key information such as the date and place of the marriage, and the details of the spouses. It is the official proof of your civil status.

Where is the Marriage Certificate update in Medellín performed?

Our marriage certificate update service is performed exclusively at the Notaría Quinta of Medellín for marriages that were registered there.

What is the cost and processing time for the Marriage Certificate Update in Medellín?

The Marriage Certificate Update service in Medellín costs $40 USD. Once payment is made, the update process with the corresponding notary takes approximately between 5 to 8 days.

What documents do I need to update my Marriage Certificate in Medellín with expatgroup.co?

You will need scanned, valid identification documents (ID cards or passports) for both spouses, and, if applicable, clear and precise information about the exact data that needs to be modified.

When should I update my Marriage Certificate in Medellín?

It's essential to update your marriage certificate if you need a certified copy issued less than 90 days ago to comply with document validity required by authorities, if you will use the document internationally (for apostille or official translation), or if you need to correct errors in names or dates registered in the original certificate issued by a notary in Medellín.

What is a Marriage Certificate?

A Marriage Certificate is the official record that legally validates the union of two people, containing fundamental details such as the date, place of celebration, and identification of the contracting parties. It is the legal proof that your marriage has been recognized.

What is the cost and processing time to update the UMH Certificate?

The cost to update the Common-Law Marriage Certificate is $40 USD. Once payment is made, the update process takes between 2 and 3 business days.

Who can use expatgroup.co’s Common-Law Marriage Certificate Update service?

This service is exclusively available for users who have processed their Common-Law Marriage with expatgroup.co.

When should I update my Common-Law Marriage Certificate?

You should update your certificate if the issue date is older than 90 days, especially if you plan to use it for visa applications. It's also essential if there are changes in your information or typographical errors in the original document.

What is a Common-Law Marriage Certificate (UMH)?

The Common-Law Marriage Certificate is a legal document that recognizes the existence of a stable and monogamous relationship between two people, without requiring a formal marriage. This certificate grants rights and duties similar to those of marriage in Colombia.

What if my documents are not in Spanish?

If your original documents are not in Spanish, an official translation will be required. Expatgroup.co can provide this service for translations from English to Spanish.

What is the estimated time to complete the process?

The total time for completion may vary, but our process is designed to be efficient. After you submit your marriage certificate for review, you will receive confirmation within 2-3 days. Once the physical documents are submitted and payment is made, the notary process will be handled promptly in approximately 2-4 weeks.

What is the cost of the Foreign Marriage Registration service with expatgroup.co?

The initial fee for the notarial registration service is $150. Additionally, a $150 fee applies for the apostille of documents. Official translations from English to Spanish are charged at a rate of $150 per page.

What documents are necessary for the process?

The initial fee for the notary registration service is $150 USD. Additionally, apostille handling costs $150 USD, and official translations from English to Spanish are $15 USD per page.

What is Foreign Marriage Registration in Colombia?

Foreign Marriage Registration is the legal process that allows a marriage celebrated outside of Colombia to be officially recognized and have legal validity within Colombian territory. This registration is essential for various immigration and legal procedures.

Can I request the apostille and official translation of the FBI criminal record with expatgroup.co?

Yes, we offer the complete process of obtaining an FBI Criminal Record, along with the apostille from the Department of State in Washington, D.C., and an official translation into Spanish. If you purchase the package, once you obtain your FBI certificate, we will handle these procedures to ensure your document has international validity and is comprehensible in Colombia. You can initiate your full-service process here.

What happens if my fingerprints are rejected?

Our service utilizes an FBI-certified digital scanner that significantly reduces the risk of rejection, thanks to its high accuracy and real-time quality checks. If there are any issues with illegible fingerprints due to age, wounds, or skin conditions that affect the quality of the fingerprint, you will need to undergo the fingerprinting process again.

How long does it take to get the FBI Criminal Background Certificate?

The turnaround time for obtaining the FBI Criminal History Certificate is generally between 10 and 15 business days once your biometric information has been submitted to the FBI.

Will my biometric data be safe?

Yes, your security and privacy are our priority. Fingerprints are deleted from our system once they have been submitted to the FBI and have served their purpose, ensuring that your biometric information is not stored unnecessarily.

What should I bring to my fingerprinting appointment in Bogotá?

On the day of your appointment, please bring an original identification document (such as a cédula, passport, driver’s license, student card, or other valid identification) to gain access to the building and proceed with the fingerprinting process. It is also recommended to have clean and moisturized hands to ensure the quality of the prints.

How long does the fingerprinting process take in your Bogota office?

The fingerprinting procedure using our FBI-certified scanner takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes in the office and is a fast and efficient process. It is a fast and efficient process.

What is the FD-258 form, and why is it so important?

The FD-258 form is the standard fingerprint card used by the FBI and other U.S. agencies, which is crucial for various procedures, including obtaining FBI criminal records, immigration processes, visa applications, naturalization of foreign spouses, and professional certifications.

Can I reapply for the Digital Nomad Visa if my application is “UNADMITTED” (Inadmitida)?

Yes, an "Inadmitida" status (meaning your application was unadmitted) generally allows you to reapply immediately. However, it's crucial to thoroughly re-evaluate your application and documentation to improve your next submission.

What does “Discretionary Power” mean in the context of visa inadmissibility?

It's the legal authority of the Colombian government to approve or reject a visa even if all stated requirements are met. It often results in applications being unadmitted based on subjective interpretations of your profile, work link "officiality," or perceived "interest to the country."

What is the key difference between an application being “UNADMITTED” (Inadmitida) and a “DENIAL” (Negación)?

An unadmitted (Inadmitida) application means it was not processed to a final decision, often due to discretionary reasons or initial non-compliance. It generally allows immediate reapplication without a waiting period. A denial (Negación), however, is a final rejection after a substantive review, indicating the applicant does not meet core eligibility criteria. If denied, applicants typically cannot submit a new application within six (6) months and must process it from their country of nationality or permanent legal residence.

What’s the difference between a visa “REQUIRED” (Requerida) and “UNADMITTED” (Inadmitida)?

A "Requerida" means there's missing or fixable information, offering a chance to correct and resubmit the Colombian visa application. "Inadmitida" means the application is unadmitted, a final decision, often for discretionary reasons, with no direct recourse.

What is the main issue affecting Digital Nomad Visa applications in 2025?

The primary issue is a rise in inadmissibility, often due to authorities' discretionary power, leading to applications being unadmitted without clear, explicit reasons, even for seemingly compliant submissions.

Will I receive a physical or digital copy of my apostilled and translated documents?

The FBI report, apostille, and translations are sent digitally as PDFs to the registered email. Physical copies of these documents are not provided.

Can I obtain my FBI Background Check if I am already in Colombia and cannot travel to the U.S. for fingerprinting?

Yes, if you are already in Colombia, you do not need to travel to the United States for fingerprinting. At expatgroup.co, we can perform fingerprinting in Medellín and Bogotá using an FBI-certified scanner.

What are the costs to apply for an FBI Background Check from the United States?

The costs include an approximate USPS fee of $50 USD, paid at the time of the fingerprinting process , and a service fee of $250 USD, which includes the apostille and official translations.

How to Request my FBI Background Check From the U.S. with Expatgroup.co?

We will coordinate registration on the FBI EDO platform and the USPS website, pay the corresponding fees, provide accompaniment by mail or WhatsApp, and manage everything else, including shipping to the FBI, obtaining an apostille in Washington, D.C., and final translation.

What are the Requirements to Apply for the FBI Background Check from the United States?

Applying for your FBI Background Check from the United States is a simple process if you meet certain basic requirements. These include being physically present in the U.S. for the in-person fingerprinting appointment and having the FBI Form (Identity History Summary Request Form) completed.

Article January 8, 2026

Colombia Minimum Wage Increases in 2026: New Rates for Visa Processes

Living in Colombia, News, Visas & Immigration

expatgroup.co

Editorial Team

The start of 2026 has brought one of the most significant shifts in Colombia’s economic landscape. Following the recent government Decree 1469 of December 29, 2025, the legal minimum wage has increased by 23%, officially moving from $1.423.500 COP in 2025 to $1.750.905 COP in 2026. When including the updated transport subsidy of $249.095 COP (Decree 1470 of December 29, 2025), the total monthly compensation for workers reaches $2.00.000 COP.

While this increase aims to boost local purchasing power, it also triggers an immediate update to the financial requirements for most Colombian visa categories. Since most visas—including the Retirement Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, Business Owner Visa, and Real Estate Visa—are indexed to the monthly minimum wage, applicants must now demonstrate higher income and investment levels to remain eligible. In this blog, we break down exactly how these new rates affect the visa processes.

How Much is the Current Minimum Wage in Colombia? – SMMLV 2026

For 2026, the specific amount set as the Minimum Monthly Legal Wage (SMMLV) is $1.750.905 COP. This value is the fundamental unit used by the Colombian government to determine everything from social security contributions to the financial solvency required for legal stays. For expats and investors, this figure is the key number used to calculate whether your foreign income or projected investments meet the legal standards for the selected visa.

In a payroll context, an employee also receives a mandatory transportation allowance, bringing their total take-home pay to a round $2.000.000 COP. However, for all non-labor calculations—specifically for visa applications, government fees, and investment thresholds—the transportation subsidy is completely excluded. A visa applicant’s financial planning should be based strictly on the minimum salary of $1.750.905 COP.

Table of Current Legal Monthly Minimum Wages in Colombia for 2026

In this table of Colombian Minimum Wages, we explain all the new changes for 2026, separated for each amount, in accordance with Decree 1469 and Decree 1470.

Concept	Amount 2026 - COP	Increase	Uses
Colombia’s Minimum Wage (SMMLV 2026)	$1.750.905	23%	It is used as a basis for calculating minimum income and investments required for visas.
Transport Subsidy	$249.095	24.5%	It is excluded from the calculations for migration processes.
Monthly Total	$2.000.000	~23.2%	Minimum base income for 2026 for all workers in Colombia

What are the Minimum Income Requirements for Colombian Visas in 2026?

For most Colombian visa categories, you must demonstrate a consistent monthly income. Whether you are a digital nomad working for a foreign company, a retiree receiving a social security pension, or a student supported by a guardian, your eligibility is tied to a specific multiple of the monthly minimum wage. With the 2026 SMMLV increase to $1.750.905 COP (approx. $467 USD), the bar has been raised across the board.

It is important to remember that these figures are the absolute minimum, and that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs looks for clear, unabridged bank statements to verify these amounts. Below is a detailed table of the updated monthly income requirements for 2026 for visas to Colombia, calculated at an exchange rate of $3.750 COP per 1 USD. Keep in mind that the exchange rate may change daily.

Visa Category	Minimum Wages (SMMLV)	Amount in COP for 2026	Approx. USD
Digital Nomad (V)	3	$5.252.715	$1,400
Retirement (M)	3	$5.252.715	$1,400
Annuity (V)	10	$17.509.050	$4,670
Student (V)	10	$17.509.050	$4,670
Business/Market Exploration (V)	10	$17.509.050	$4,670
Medical Treatment (V)	10	$17.509.050	$4,670
Freelancer (M)	5	$8.754.525	$2,335
Administrative Proceedings (V)	10	$17.509.050	$4,670
Working-Holiday (V)	5	$8.754.525	$2,335
Work (M)	100*	$175.090.500	$46,690
Temporary Services Provider (V)	100*	$175.090.500	$46,690
Religious (V)	100*	$175.090.500	$46,690
Volunteer (V)	100*	$175.090.500	$46,690

*For Work, Temporary Service, Religious, and Volunteer visas, the minimum income requirements apply to the sponsoring companies and organizations.

What are the Minimum Investment Requirements for Colombian Visas in 2026?

The significant 23% increase in Colombia’s minimum wage for 2026 directly affects the minimum investment required to obtain residency through Foreign Direct Investment. The criteria for Colombia’s investment visas, such as the Business Owner Visa and Real Estate Investment Visa, are tied to a specific minimum investment amount. Consequently, an investment that met the visa threshold in late 2025 might no longer qualify under the higher requirement in 2026.

Specifically, for the Real Estate Investment visa, the minimum has reached $612.816.750 COP (approx. $163,418 USD). For those looking to establish or buy a Colombian company, the Business Owner Visa threshold has moved to $175.090.500 COP (approx. $163,418 USD). Since these investments are often one-time transactions, it is vital to ensure that the funds are registered correctly through the Banco de la República using the updated 2026 values shown below, calculated at an exchange rate of $3.750 COP per 1 USD. Keep in mind that the exchange rate may change daily.

Visa Category	Minimum Wages (SMMLV)	Amount in COP for 2026	Approx. USD
Business Owner Visa (M)	100	$175.090.500	$46,690
Investment Visa - Real Estate Purchase (M)	350	$612.816.750	$163,418
Investment Visa - Foreign Direct Investment (M)	650	$1.138.088.250	$303,490

To Sum Up

The 2026 minimum wage increase represents a significant turning point for anyone planning their future in Colombia. Because the SMMLV serves as the primary benchmark for immigration, this adjustment is a mandatory update to the financial rules for most visas. It is essential to ensure you comply with the new legal standards and the 2026 visa requirements. Regardless of your situation—whether you are a remote worker, a retiree, or a foreign investor—expatgroup.co offers comprehensive support, guiding your planning from start to finish to ensure compliance.