How can I get clear fingerprints if I have sweaty hands?

If you naturally have sweaty hands, simply inform our specialist at the beginning of your appointment so they can guide you through the capture process. For optimal results, we highly recommend keeping your hands well-hydrated with moisturizer days before your appointment, but making sure they are as dry as possible on the exact day of your session (avoid applying any creams or lotions right before coming in).

What if I don’t remember or don’t have a Social Security Number (SSN)? Is it absolutely mandatory?

Yes, it is mandatory for U.S. citizens and permanent residents to secure fast-track processing (it is not required for other nationalities). If you are a U.S. citizen or resident but cannot provide your SSN, the electronic system cannot be used; your background check will take up to 15 business days to process, which will delay the overall timeline of your process.

I am a U.S. Permanent Resident with both American and foreign passports. Which passport should I bring to the fingerprinting appointment?

You must bring your U.S. Passport. Federal criminal databases require your American identification credentials to run the high-priority electronic background check.

If my FBI background check exceeds 1 page, how and when do I pay the additional translation fee?

The moment we receive your official digital report from the FBI, our team will review its page count. If it exceeds the standard single page, your assigned specialist will contact you to notify you and send a secure payment link. As soon as the extra fee is processed, we will proceed with your certified translations immediately.

What is the best way to take fingerprints for an FBI background check?

Digitally via an advanced biometric scanner. Unlike traditional ink-and-paper rollings (which are highly prone to smudging, formatting errors, and shipping delays), digital live-scanning captures your ridge patterns with precision. This specialized electronic method minimizes the risk of rejection.

Can I get my fingerprints in Cali?

Yes, expatgroup.co offers digital fingerprinting services using advanced FBI-certified scanners in Cali.

Can I schedule a fingerprinting appointment online in Cali?

Yes, online appointment scheduling is available for digital fingerprinting in Cali.

What is the cost of a Salvoconducto in Migración Colombia?

The cost of the salvoconducto is 88.000 COP (24 USD approximately) in 2026.

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.

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 3-5 days for american citizens and residents, and 10 and 15 business days for other nationalities.

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."

Article January 30, 2021

Dating Services in Colombia: What You Need to Know

Living in Colombia

expatgroup.co

Editorial Team

For foreigners seeking romance in Colombia through dating services in Colombia, there are several resources available to help you find that special someone. Whether you’re interested in a potential long-term partner or a passionate fling, Colombian dating services can significantly speed up your search.

However, before your first encounter, you should follow a few important rules and tips. Additionally, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the best dating apps available in Colombia. With this in mind, we’ve compiled a list of dos and don’ts for dating Colombians, along with some useful tips to help you make a great first impression.

First, let’s look at Colombia’s most popular dating apps.

Dating apps in Colombia

Tinder

Tinder is by far Colombia’s most popular dating app. Swiping right remains one of the easiest ways to find dates across a variety of ages and preferences in both Colombian cities and small towns.

If you’re looking for something casual at first and aren’t motivated to begin a serious relationship, Tinder is your best bet for matching Colombians with similar intentions.

Bumble

Bumble is used by many Colombians to find long-lasting love. The platform is set up so that women have to message first when matching, and only have 24 hours to do so. Many Colombians – irrespective of gender – like this model as it encourages more meaningful engagement with their matches to foreigners.

If you’re planning to stay in Colombia for the medium to long term and want to make a real connection with a Latino or Latina, you could do worse than getting a Bumble account.

Colombian Cupid

Colombian Cupid has been purpose-built to match Colombian women with their ideal foreign man, and vice versa. If you’re a man looking for your perfect Latina partner, Colombian Cupid has over 2 million singles using its platform. It boasts a range of service features that tailor your results to what you’re looking for in a Colombian girlfriend or future wife.

Speed dating in Colombia

If you’re not into using technology and want to start the dating process face-to-face, speed dating events are alive and kicking in Colombia’s big cities.

Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and Barranquilla all have regular speed dating nights that attract a blend of Colombian and foreign singles to come and seek romance. Depending on your level of Spanish and the type of speed dating event you attend, you can ask to be placed with bilingual or partially English-speaking Colombians so that your 5-minute conversation is of decent quality.

Helpful tips for dating Colombians

Learn the language

Knowing some Spanish goes a long way if you are serious about finding love or simply charming a Colombian. Independent of your date’s gender, attempting to speak Spanish shows that you’re both interested in immersing yourself in Colombian culture and properly getting to know them.

It might make the first few encounters awkward, but trying out some Spanish phrases and questions will go a long way. On the whole, Colombians are very patriotic, so slipping in a few Colombian phrases will get you big brownie points.

Beware of timekeeping

This might be an unfair stereotype, but I’ve heard enough anecdotal evidence of this to fill a book: Colombians, generally speaking, are fashionably late to many events.

If you like to be on time or see lateness as a sign of rudeness, prepare yourself for potential disappointment. And it’s best not to bring up your annoyance on the first date. Remember that your customs are different from your dates’. Who knows, their more laissez-faire approach to timekeeping could become an endearing quality in the future.

Speak highly of Colombia

As I said above, Colombians are patriotic. Every day at 6 am and 6 pm, the national anthem spills out from Colombian radio stations, while flags and emblems of national pride are plastered across buses, buildings and homes.

If you have concerns about Colombian culture, it’s best to keep them to yourself or express them diplomatically. For instance, many foreigners find Colombian food unappealing. Sharing negative opinions unprompted may come off as offensive, as Colombians are sensitive to outside perceptions due to the country’s recent history.

Learn the dating customs

This is by no means true in every case, but certain chivalrous traits still exist within Colombian dating. For instance, it’s not uncommon for men to pay for dinners and date activities. Also, it’s not uncommon for straight foreign men to meet their Colombian date’s family within their first few dates.

As I said, this isn’t true for everyone. However, it’s important to establish boundaries before going on your first date. This way, each of you is aware of what the other is comfortable and not comfortable with.

Signing off

Dating in Colombia is an exciting experience. The best way to get the most out of potential Colombian romance is to embrace new norms and use the range of dating services available.

If you’ve already found love and are looking to stay in Colombia, expatgroup.co is a specialist in helping foreigners get R-type and M-type Marriage visas. If you need help getting either of these visas, book an appointment to speak to one of our consultants today.

Considering a Civil Marriage in Colombia? Get Married with Expatgroup.co

Enjoy a seamless and stress-free civil marriage in Colombia with our expert support. Our dedicated team offers personalized assistance, ensuring that every detail is managed with professionalism. Obtain full legal representation and hold your civil ceremony in Medellín in just a few simple steps. Trust us to help you achieve peace of mind with your marital union.