Permanent Partner Visa vs. Spouse Visa in Colombia: What’s the Difference?

If you are in a relationship with a Colombian citizen and wish to live legally in Colombia, it’s important to understand the differences between the Permanent Partner Visa and the Spouse Visa (both Type M). While both allow you to stay in the country, they have different requirements and conditions.

1. Spouse Visa (Type M)

This visa is designed for foreigners who are officially married to a Colombian citizen. It is one of the most common ways to obtain legal residency in the country through marriage.

✅ Main Requirements:

• Colombian marriage certificate issued within the last 90 days.

• Signed letter from the Colombian spouse confirming the relationship.

• Colombian spouse’s citizenship ID (Cédula de Ciudadanía).

• Valid passport and apostilled criminal record certificate.

• Proof of cohabitation and stability of the relationship.

  
  

✅ Benefits:

• Allows legal residence and work in Colombia.

• Granted for up to 3 years and can be renewed.

• After 3 years with this visa, you can apply for a Resident Visa.

• With residency, you can apply for Colombian nationality by marriage after 2 years of continuous stay in the country.

  
  

⚠️ Considerations:

• The visa becomes invalid if the couple separates or the marriage is dissolved.

• Foreign marriage certificates are not accepted unless registered in Colombia.

• Once the visa is approved, obtaining the Foreigner’s ID Card (Cédula de Extranjería) is mandatory.

  
  

2. Permanent Partner Visa (Type M)

This visa is for foreigners who have a common-law relationship (domestic partnership) with a Colombian citizen, formally registered for at least one year. It is an option for couples who are not legally married but cohabitate and want to legalize their immigration status in Colombia.

✅ Main Requirements:

• Formal declaration of domestic partnership before a notary or judge in Colombia, issued within the last 90 days.

• Signed letter from the Colombian partner confirming the relationship.

• Colombian partner’s citizenship ID (Cédula de Ciudadanía).

• Valid passport and apostilled criminal record certificate.

• Proof of continuous and stable cohabitation.

  
  

✅ Benefits:

• Allows legal residence and work in Colombia.

• Granted for up to 3 years and can be renewed.

• After 2 years, you can apply for a Resident Visa.

  
  

⚠️ Considerations:

• The visa becomes invalid if the couple separates.

• The domestic partnership declaration must be made in Colombia, not abroad.

• This visa leads to permanent residency only after 5 years, unlike the Spouse Visa, which allows it after 3 years.

  
  

Conclusion: Which One Is Right for You?

If you are legally married, the Spouse Visa is your best option, as it allows residency, work, and a pathway to Colombian nationality in the future.

If you have a domestic partnership, the Permanent Partner Visa is a great alternative to live in Colombia with your partner.

If you need guidance in choosing the right visa, Colombian Passport can assist you throughout the entire process. Contact us today!