Mercosur Visa for Colombians
Complete guide to obtaining the Mercosur Residency as a Colombian citizen. Specific requirements, timeline, and process for Colombia passport holders.
Overview for Colombian Citizens
Mercosur Residency is available to citizens of Mercosur member and associate countries. This is the most advantageous residency option for qualifying nationals, offering streamlined processing and full work rights. As a Colombian citizen, you have visa-free entry to Argentina for 90 days that affect your pathway to this visa.
Special Considerations for Colombians:
- •You're eligible for the Mercosur residency pathway, which is the fastest and most affordable route to living in Argentina.
Is This Visa Right for You?
The Mercosur Visa is designed for:
- Citizens of Mercosur full members (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Bolivia)
- Citizens of associate members (Chile, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Suriname)
- EU citizens (through EU-Mercosur association)
- Nationals of countries with Mercosur agreements
Requirements for Colombians
Additional Requirements
- • Citizenship of qualifying country
- • Valid passport or national ID
- • Clean criminal record (requirements vary by nationality)
- • Proof of address in Argentina
- • Proof of means of support (flexible requirements)
Document Checklist for Colombians
As a Colombian citizen, you'll need these documents:
- Valid passport or national ID
- Criminal record check (if required for your nationality)
- Birth certificate
- Proof of address in Argentina
- Passport photos
- Criminal background check from Colombia (apostilled) - Certificado de Antecedentes (PolicÃa Nacional) with apostille
Timeline & Process
Processing Time
15-30 days (fastest processing for Mercosur nationals)
Visa Duration
2 years for associates, permanent for full members
Path to Citizenship
After 2 years, can apply for citizenship
Step-by-Step Process
Entry to Argentina
Colombians can enter visa-free for 90 days. Use this time to prepare your application.
Gather Documents
Obtain all required documents from Colombia. Note: Documents must be apostilled in Colombia before travel.
Submit Application
Apply at the Dirección Nacional de Migraciones (DNM) in Buenos Aires or your local migraciones office.
Receive Precaria
You'll receive a temporary authorization (precaria) allowing you to stay legally while processing.
Collect Residency Card
Once approved, collect your DNI (residency card) and enjoy your new life in Argentina!
Costs
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Fastest processing time
- +Lowest cost
- +Full work authorization immediately
- +Simplified requirements
- +Full members get immediate permanent residency
- +Path to citizenship in 2 years
Considerations
- •Only available to qualifying nationalities
- •Must maintain Mercosur country citizenship
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between full and associate member benefits?
Full members get immediate permanent residency. Associate members get 2-year temporary residency that can become permanent. Both have work authorization.
Can I apply if I have dual citizenship with a Mercosur country?
Yes, if you hold citizenship of a qualifying Mercosur country, you can apply under those provisions.