colombian cédula

Whether it’s a study year abroad, research for a postgraduate thesis, or simply learning Spanish,  Colombia has become a popular education destination for foreign students. The Colombian student visa allows foreign nationals to come and study in a recognized educational institution for up to one year (before needing to be renewed). 

If you’re looking to get a student visa in Colombia, you must first find a public or private school or university with an academic program recognized by the Colombian government. When you enroll in one of these institutes, you must take classes for 10 or more hours a week. Otherwise, the Colombian government won’t grant you the visa. So you’ve found a recognized institute and enrolled for over 10 hours. This article explains the complete process for applying for a student visa in Colombia and the requirements you need to fulfill.

What were the effects of Resolution 5477 on the student visa?

On October 21, 2022, Resolution 5477 came into effect with regulatory changes regarding Colombian visas. In the case of the student visa, previously, there were two categories Migrant type visas for primary education, university, and postgraduate studies. On the other hand, the visitor type visa for shorter studies such as Spanish classes.

According to the new Resolution, from now on, all studies are categorized into only one type of visa: Visitor type.

Visa-type-v-Student

What is needed for a Colombian student visa?

As we’ve previously said, getting a Colombian student visa requires you to find a legitimate educational institute with an academic program that’s formally acknowledged by the Colombian government. 

Where can you find these institutes recognized by Colombian Goverment?

Universities with an international program qualify as recognized institutes. Many language academies also run qualifying academic programs. A word of caution, however, about applying to certain language schools. Some language schools might appear to be credible in terms of the courses they offer, and their teaching certifications, but might not qualify as a suitable sponsor for the Colombian student visa. If you’re unsure, always consult a student visa service agency that has helped dozens of expats secure the Colombian student visa. 

To apply for a Colombian student visa, you must electronically register your application on the Cancillería. Make sure to have the following information ready to submit:

Study Plan

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Cost, validity and Restrictions

Can I work with a Colombian student visa?

The Colombian Student Visa allows postgraduate university students to work up to twenty (20) hours per week, subject to prior reporting to Migración and the Ministry of Labor (Ministerio de Trabajo) by the employer. If you need to work in Colombia, we recommend you apply for the Colombia Work Visa, or if you are a remote employee, you can opt for the Digital Nomad Visa.

Get the Colombian Student Visa with an experienced visa agency

The Colombian student visa is becoming increasingly attractive to foreign students, searching for a unique and exciting learning environment. 

Nevertheless, like with applying for any Colombian visa, you should make sure that your application is rock solid so that Colombian immigration doesn’t have any excuses to deny you the opportunity of studying here. Between the application process and acquiring your Colombian ID (Cédula Extranjería), it’s always better to know someone who’s already experienced successfully obtained visas in the past. For this reason, we recommend that you talk to a trustworthy Colombian visa service provider who can help you get the student visa without issue.

FAQs about Colombian Student Visa

What is a Colombian Student Visa?

A Colombian Student Visa is a type of visa that allows foreign students to stay in Colombia for the purpose of studying at a recognized educational institution.

Who is eligible for a Colombian Student Visa?

Individuals who have been accepted into an educational program at a recognized institution in Colombia, such as a university, language school, or technical institute.

How long is the Colombian Student Visa valid?

The validity of the Student Visa varies but is usually granted for the duration of the academic program, up to a maximum of two years. It can be renewed if the program extends beyond this period.

Do I need to provide proof of health insurance for a Colombian Student Visa?

Yes, proof of health insurance covering your stay in Colombia is typically required.

How do I apply for a Colombian Student Visa?

You can apply for a Student Visa at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or by getting professional advice with expatgroup.co.

Why should I use expatgroup.co services?

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3 comentarios en “Student Visa Colombia: A Complete Guide – 2023 Update

  1. Buenos dias,

    Soy de Europa y puedo quedarme hasta 6 meses sin visa. Si aplico para un visa estudiantes seria 6 meses + 24 meses maximo?

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