We tell you how to get a student visa
What is a student visa for Colombia?
If you’re planning to stay in Colombia for more than 180 days to study Spanish, you’ll need a Type V student visa. This visa lets you legally live in the country while enrolled in a certified educational program—like Elefun’s Academic Spanish Program.
To be eligible, your course must be at least 13 weeks long (that’s about 3 months). Whether you choose group or private classes, we’ll make sure you’re set up with everything you need to apply.
You don’t need to fill out a separate application for Elefun—just sign up online or in person, and once you’re enrolled, we’ll get the paperwork ready for your visa.
Colombia student visa requirements
Getting your student visa starts with us. Once you’re officially enrolled in the Academic Program, we’ll prepare all the official documents for your application.
What we give you:
▪️ Signed enrollment letter
▪️ Official invoice
▪️ Elefun’s operating license
▪️Course registration details
What you’ll need to provide:
▪️ A valid passport (at least 6 months left)
▪️ Copy of passport ID page
▪️ Entry stamp to Colombia (if you’re already here)
▪️Recent passport-style photo
▪️Proof of funds (bank statements or sponsor letter), or sufficient savings to remain in the country
▪️Criminal background check, apostilled
▪️A brief motivation letter (why you want to study Spanish here)
Student visa Colombia: Step-by-step process
Let’s break it down together—this is how to get a student visa, step by step:
▪️Choose your Elefun program (minimum 13 weeks)
▪️Register online or in-person (it’s quick and simple)
▪️We send you all visa documents within 5 business days
▪️You complete the visa form on Cancillería’s website
▪️Upload your documents in PDF and pay the application fee
▪️Wait for the decision (the Ministry usually responds in 10–30 business days)
You can apply from your home country—or from Colombia if you’re already here as a tourist. Just be sure to start the process early so everything runs smoothly.
Documents needed for your visa application
To help you stay organized, here’s a simple checklist:
From Elefun
▪️Letter of acceptance
▪️Official payment invoice
▪️Proof of school and course registration
From You
▪️Passport (valid 6+ months)
▪️Scan of your passport ID page
▪️Photo (white background, passport-style)
▪️Bank statements (3 months minimum) or sponsor letter, or sufficient savings to remain in the country
▪️Apostilled background check
▪️Personal motivation letter (why you want to study Spanish in Colombia)
🧠 Pro tip: Apply at least 2 months in advance, especially if you’re doing this from outside Colombia.
Why apply through Elefun’s guidance?
You don’t have to figure it all out alone. From the first message to your arrival in Medellín, we’re right here with you.
Here’s how we support your journey:
1. We guide you from the beginning
Our team helps you choose your program, enroll, and start the visa process with all the right info.
2. You choose how to apply
Want to apply on your own? No problem—we give you a full guide. Want a pro to handle it? We’ll connect you with our trusted visa agent (this service has a special rate).
3. We follow up
Once your application is in, we check in with you and keep an eye on your progress.
4. You’re part of the Elefun experience—immediately
While you wait, you can join weekly cultural immersion activities or start learning online with a special discount.
5. We help you settle in
Need help finding a place to stay? Wondering what to pack? Where to live? We’re here to make sure your first days (and all the ones after) feel amazing..
Frequently Asked Questions
▪️Do I need a student visa to study at Elefun?
If your program is longer than 180 days, yes. We’ll guide you through the full process.
▪️ What are the key Colombia student visa requirements?
Enrollment in our program, valid passport, background check, proof of funds, and a motivation letter.
▪️ Can I apply while already in Colombia as a tourist?
Yes. We’ll help you change your migratory status after approval.
▪️ How long does it take to get the visa?
5 days for Elefun’s documentation, then 10–30 business days for the Ministry’s response.
▪️ Can I work while on a student visa?
No. The visa is strictly for studying.