If you’re a Colombian citizen planning to live in Spain for more than 90 days, you’ll need a Type D national visa — whether you’re moving for work, study, retirement, or family reasons.
This guide breaks down the most popular Spanish visa options available to Colombians, including key requirements, legal tips, and how Borderless Lawyers can assist from start to finish.
🗂️ Overview of Spain’s Visa Options for Colombians
| Visa Type | Best For | Work Allowed? | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Visa | University, master’s, or language programs | ✅ Yes (up to 30h/week) | 6–24 months |
| Work Visa | Colombians with a Spanish job offer | ✅ Yes | 1–2 years |
| Digital Nomad Visa | Remote workers/freelancers | ✅ Yes | 3 years |
| Entrepreneur Visa | Business founders/startups | ✅ Yes | 3 years |
| Non-Lucrative Visa | Retirees, passive income holders | ❌ No | 1 year |
| Family Reunification | Spouse, children, or parents of legal residents | ✅ Yes | Matches sponsor’s residence |
📌 All long-term visas must be applied for at the Spanish consulate in Colombia (usually Bogotá or Medellín).
🎓 1. Student Visa (Visado de Estudios)
Ideal for:
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University or master’s programs in Spain
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Language schools and academic research
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Youth exchange programs
Requirements:
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Official admission letter
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Proof of sufficient funds (€600–€700/month)
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Health insurance (private or university plan)
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Apostilled police background check
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Medical certificate (apostilled and translated)
✅ Can work up to 30 hours/week
💡 After finishing studies, you can apply for a post-study work permit or digital nomad visa.
💼 2. Work Visa (Cuenta Ajena)
Designed for Colombians with an employment offer from a Spanish company.
Application Steps:
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Employer applies for a work authorization in Spain
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You apply for the visa once the permit is approved
Requirements:
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Valid job offer and signed contract
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Educational/professional credentials
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Clean criminal record
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Proof of qualifications (translated/apostilled)
⚠️ Only certain jobs are eligible unless it’s a highly qualified position. We can help navigate this complex process.
💻 3. Digital Nomad Visa
Perfect for Colombians working remotely for non-Spanish clients or employers.
Key Conditions:
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Monthly income of €2,650+
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Work contract or proof of freelance activity
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University degree OR 3 years of experience
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No criminal record + medical certificate
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Spanish health insurance
✅ Valid for 3 years, renewable
✅ Family members can apply as dependents
✅ Fast-track processing available
📌 This visa is ideal for tech workers, consultants, designers, developers, and remote employees.
🚀 4. Entrepreneur Visa (Visado de Emprendedor)
For Colombians planning to launch a startup or innovative business in Spain.
Requirements:
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Business plan approved by ENISA or similar agency
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Demonstrated experience or technical qualifications
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Funds to support both the business and your living expenses
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Health insurance and clean criminal record
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Apostilled documents and sworn translations
✅ Visa grants full work rights and often qualifies for fast-track authorization.
💡 Can lead to permanent residency and even Spanish citizenship.
🛋️ 5. Non-Lucrative Visa
Perfect for:
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Early retirees
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Colombians with passive income (rental income, dividends, pensions)
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People wanting to live in Spain without working
Requirements:
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Monthly income of at least €2,400 (+€600 per dependent)
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Proof of accommodation in Spain
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Apostilled police and medical records
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Private Spanish health insurance
❌ Work is not allowed under this visa
✅ Many use it as a first step toward longer-term residency
👨👩👧 6. Family Reunification Visa
If you have a relative legally living in Spain, you may qualify for this visa.
Eligible family members:
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Spouse or registered partner
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Children under 18
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Parents (if dependent)
Requirements:
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Sponsor must have legal residence in Spain
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Proof of relationship (translated and apostilled)
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Proof of sufficient income and housing
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Clean background checks
✅ You’ll receive a residence permit with work rights and full access to healthcare and education.
📄 Required Documents (Typical for All Visas)
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Valid Colombian passport | At least 12 months valid |
| Visa application form | Depends on visa type |
| Passport-size photos | As per consulate requirements |
| Apostilled police clearance | From Colombian National Police |
| Apostilled medical certificate | Must be recent |
| Financial documentation | Bank statements, tax returns, etc. |
| Health insurance | Must include full coverage in Spain |
| Proof of accommodation | Rental contract, invitation, etc. |
| Sworn translations | Must be into Spanish by certified translator |
✅ We assist with all document formatting, legalization, and sworn translation.
💰 Financial Requirements by Visa Type
| Visa Type | Monthly Minimum Income |
|---|---|
| Student Visa | €600–€700 |
| Digital Nomad Visa | €2,650+ |
| Non-Lucrative Visa | €2,400+ (+ €600/dependent) |
| Entrepreneur Visa | Enough to fund business + personal living |
| Family Reunification | Based on Spanish minimum wage |
💡 All funds must be verifiable, even if held in Colombia.
❌ Common Mistakes Colombians Should Avoid
| Mistake | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Choosing the wrong visa type | Leads to rejection or restriction |
| Using unofficial translations | Documents will be invalid |
| Incomplete financial documentation | Visa may be denied |
| Waiting too long to start process | Miss school/work deadlines |
| Assuming short stay = residency | Overstay leads to fines or bans |
✅ Our legal team ensures a complete, compliant visa application — the first time.
👩⚖️ How Borderless Lawyers Helps Colombian Applicants
✔️ Visa selection tailored to your case
✔️ Full documentation and application support
✔️ Sworn translations + apostille coordination
✔️ Consulate appointment scheduling
✔️ NIE, TIE, and local registration in Spain
✔️ English- and Spanish-speaking lawyers
📌 Whether you’re in Bogotá, Medellín, Cali — or already in Spain — we guide your move.
📞 Call to Action
Not sure which visa to apply for?
We’ve helped hundreds of Colombians choose the right path and succeed in Spain’s immigration system.