Your Essential Guide to Obtaining a Colombian Student Visa

The Type M student visa serves as Colombia's primary authorization for long-term academic programs, valid for up to three years. This visa category is specifically designed for students enrolled in accredited Colombian universities, technical institutions, or postgraduate programs requiring sustained academic commitment. Students must demonstrate enrollment in programs with minimum 10-hour weekly class schedules and maintain full-time academic status throughout their stay.

The Type V student visa provides six-month authorization for short-term educational programs, particularly popular among international students pursuing Spanish language immersion courses, cultural exchange programs, or specialized training workshops. This visa category offers flexibility for students seeking intensive but temporary educational experiences without the commitment required for longer academic programs.

All student visas require official authorization from Colombia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ensuring compliance with national educational standards. Educational institutions must be recognized by the Colombian National Government, and students must provide comprehensive documentation including academic transcripts, financial solvency proof, health insurance coverage, and institutional enrollment verification through official diplomatic channels.

Colombia's Check-Mig digital platform streamlines student visa processing by providing real-time application tracking, automated document verification, and direct communication with migration authorities. This integration ensures faster processing times and enhanced transparency throughout the application process, as detailed in comprehensive processing guidelines.