Colombia Visa Categories 2026: V, M and R — Every Subcategory Mapped

When Resolution 5477 of 2022 replaced Colombia's previous visa framework — which had been built around a confusing mix of lettered codes — it reorganized the entire system into three clean categories: V (Visitante, visitor), M (Migrante, migrant), and R (Residente, resident). Three letters, but within them a structure of 37 visa subcategories that cover almost every reason a foreigner might legitimately need to be in Colombia for an extended period.

This overview maps the entire system — what each category means legally, which subcategories exist, how they relate to each other, and which path leads where.

Category V: Visitante (Visitor)

The V category covers foreigners whose stay in Colombia is temporary and does not involve long-term settlement. Subcategories include V-TP (tourist and temporary activities), V-M (medical treatment in Colombia), V-TE (events and congresses), V-CNP (cultural exchange and cooperation), and several others. V visas are typically valid for periods from 30 days to 2 years depending on the subcategory, and do not create a path to permanent residency on their own — a V visa holder who wants to stay long-term must transition to an M or R category.

Category M: Migrante (Migrant)

The M category is the primary category for foreigners who live and work in Colombia with a specific authorized purpose. Key subcategories include M-Trabajador (employee), M-Independiente (independent contractor), M-Estudiante (student), M-Pensionado (retiree with pension), M-Rentista (capital income holder), M-Inversionista (investor), M-Nómada Digital (digital nomad), M-Fí (family of Colombian national), and several others. M visas are generally valid for 1 to 3 years and are renewable. Continuous uninterrupted residence under an M visa for 5 years (or 2 years for family/spousal categories) qualifies the holder for the R visa.

Category R: Residente (Resident)

The R visa is Colombia's permanent residency status. Holders are not required to maintain any specific immigration purpose — they can work, study, invest, or retire without category-specific documentation. The R visa has no fixed expiration date but requires that the holder spend at least 180 days per year in Colombia and not be absent for more than 2 consecutive years. Loss of these conditions can result in the R visa's revocation. R visa holders who have lived in Colombia for 5 years (cumulative) are eligible for naturalization under Law 2332/2023.

Which Visa for Which Situation