South Sudanese Expats in Colombia — 2026 Guide | CoVisas Colombia

Why South Sudanese Nationals Choose Colombia

South Sudan — the world's newest independent nation, having gained independence in 2011 — has faced one of the most severe humanitarian crises globally, including a devastating civil war from 2013 to 2018 and ongoing fragile peace. For South Sudanese nationals who have secured education, professional skills, or international connections, Colombia represents a stable, welcoming destination with a structured immigration system, a growing economy, and a much higher standard of living and personal security. The country's democratic institutions, rule of law, and vibrant cities like Bogotá and Medellín are stark contrasts to the conditions in Juba.

Colombia's Visa M program, which does not discriminate based on national origin, is fully accessible to South Sudanese nationals who can demonstrate qualifying income, property ownership, family ties, or investment capital. While English is South Sudan's official language — which can help in the initial transition — most daily life and official processes in Colombia are conducted in Spanish, making language study an important early priority. Colombia's international community, NGO sector, and growing tech industry are areas where South Sudanese professionals with international experience may find opportunities.

Colombian Migrant Visa (Visa M) — Categories & Fees 2026

The Visa Migrante (Visa M) is Colombia's primary long-stay visa for non-nationals. It is valid for up to three years and is the pathway to permanent residency after five continuous years. South Sudanese nationals apply through the Colombian Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya.

SMMLV 2026 = COP 1,423,500/month. Study fee (USD 255) is non-refundable and paid at application. Issuance fee (USD 232) is paid only upon approval. Both fees apply regardless of nationality.

Mandatory Health Insurance in Colombia

All Visa M holders are required by Colombian law to maintain continuous health coverage. In South Sudan, the healthcare system is among the most underdeveloped in the world: Juba Teaching Hospital is chronically under-equipped, and MSF, UNICEF, and WHO effectively dominate health service delivery. Formal health insurance is virtually nonexistent. Upon arriving in Colombia, South Sudanese nationals must immediately enroll in a Colombian EPS or obtain a qualifying private health insurance policy — there is no transitional period or exemption.

For South Sudanese nationals, private health insurance in Colombia is not only a visa compliance requirement but a genuine upgrade in healthcare access. Colombia's health system, ranked among the best in Latin America, offers modern hospitals, specialized care, and prescription coverage through both public and private channels. CoVisas Colombia connects South Sudanese nationals with compliant, affordable insurance plans that satisfy Migración Colombia's requirements from day one.

Tax Residency in Colombia: No Double-Taxation Treaty with South Sudan

There is no Convention for the Avoidance of Double Taxation (CDI) between Colombia and South Sudan. South Sudanese nationals who become Colombian tax residents — by spending more than 183 days in Colombia in any 365-day period — are subject to Colombian income tax on their worldwide income at progressive rates up to 39%. There is no formal offset mechanism for any taxes paid in South Sudan.

South Sudan's tax authority, the South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA), administers an income tax system with progressive rates from 0% to 20%. However, given South Sudan's severe economic collapse, hyperinflation, and the fact that oil revenue historically contributed over 80% of government income, practical tax collection is very limited for most individuals. South Sudanese nationals living abroad are generally not subject to South Sudanese income tax on foreign-sourced income. Nevertheless, any South Sudanese national with residual oil sector income, property, or business interests inside South Sudan should seek professional cross-border tax advice, particularly as the absence of a CDI means no formal protection against double taxation.

Document Legalization for Colombia (Non-Hague Country)

South Sudan is not a member of the Hague Apostille Convention. All official South Sudanese documents must undergo a four-step authentication process before they are recognized by Colombian authorities. Given South Sudan's fragile institutional capacity, applicants should allow significantly more time than usual for each step, and should verify current procedures at cancilleria.gov.co before beginning.

1. Notarize or authenticate the document before a competent authority in South Sudan — a registered notary, court official, or the relevant government ministry in Juba. Documents must carry an original official signature and seal.
2. Authentication by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) of South Sudan in Juba — the MoFA must certify the signature and seal of the issuing authority. Note: institutional capacity may be limited; plan for extended timelines.
3. Authentication by the Colombian Embassy in Nairobi — the Embassy (accredited for South Sudan) must then legalize the MoFA certification, confirming the document's validity for use in Colombia.
4. Certified English-to-Spanish translation — all documents must be translated into Spanish by a translator certified by the Colombian Superior Council of the Judicature (Consejo Superior de la Judicatura) or recognized by the Colombian Consulate.

Police Clearance Certificate

For the Visa M application, Colombia requires a police clearance covering the last three years. South Sudanese nationals obtain this from the South Sudan National Police Service (SSNPS) in Juba. Nationals abroad may also approach the South Sudanese Embassy in Nairobi or Washington D.C. Due to South Sudan's institutional fragility, processing times can be unpredictable — allow additional time and follow up directly with the Embassy in Nairobi. Always verify current acceptance standards with Migración Colombia before submission.