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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.
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 the Colombian government?
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 CancillerÃa. Make sure to have the following information ready to submit:
Requirementsto apply for a Student Visa in Colombia
Passport
Original valid passport with at least 2 blank pages and 6 months of validity.
Digital Photo
1 digital photo 3 x 4 cm white background without accessories.
Stamp
Last entry stamp to Colombia (Optional).
Study certificate
Certificate of admission or enrollment in the educational institution indicating the degree or program for which the student is admitted or enrolled and its duration.
If you’re under the age of 18
A letter of authorization from your parents designating a person who’s responsible for you while you study in Colombia, translated into Spanish and notarized.
Bank Statements
6 months of bank statements from the economically responsable person, that proves at least 10 times the Colombian minimum wage ($13,000,000 COP-$2,900 USD). Alternatively, you can show credit cards with balance.
Letter of motivation
Motivation letter signed by the foreigner specifying objectives, schedule, and declaring economic responsibility.
Mandatory Health Insurance
Policy with coverage in Colombia and against all risks, including death and repatriation.
Do you need health insurance for Colombia Visa Applications?
As an expat, healh insurance is essential when applying for a Colombia Visa. Assist Card is a reputable travel health insurance service provider that fulfills medical and visa requirements in Colombia with great plans and incredible prices.
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.
Cost, validity, and restrictions
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 ExtranjerÃa), 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.
