Path to migrant regularization in Colombia for Venezuelan citizen

Since 2017, Colombia has developed a comprehensive legal and administrative framework to respond to the mass arrival of Venezuelan migrants. The process has evolved from temporary stay permits to structured mechanisms that enable full legal, social, and economic integration. Below is a timeline summary of key regulations to help identify who is eligible to apply for the Resident Visa under the Temporary Protection Statute (ETPV).

Regulatory timeline

1.     2017 – Special Stay Permit (PEP)

First regularization mechanism implemented by Migración Colombia.

• Allowed Venezuelan citizens in irregular status to legally remain in the country and access formal employment and basic services.
• Valid for up to 2 years, with renewals allowed.
• Issued in multiple phases between 2017 and 2020.

2.     2021 – Temporary Protection Statute for Venezuelan Migrants (ETPV)

Decree 216 of March 1, 2021: adopted the Temporary Protection Statute for Venezuelan Migrants (ETPV) and defines the PPT as the document that certifies the inclusion of beneficiaries.

• The ETPV is consolidated as a 10-year protection mechanism, aimed at Venezuelans who were in Colombia before January 31, 2021, whether legally or irregularly.

• It sought to integrate this population socially and economically, allowing them to advance toward regular immigration status.

3.     2021 – Temporary Protection Permit (PPT)

Resolution 971 of April 28, 2021: Regulates the Single Registry of Venezuelan Migrants (RUMV) and the procedure for issuing the PPT.

• Serves as proof of enrollment in the ETPV program.
• Gradually replaced the PEP..
• Valid until May 30, 2031, or until the holder obtains a regular visa.
• Grants access to healthcare, education, employment, and financial services.

4.     2022 – Resident Visa for Venezuelans under the ETPV

Resolution 5477 of 2022- Article 91: Defines the special residence visa for Venezuelans under the ETPV.

Requirements:

Must have:

• Held a valid PEP for 5 years, or
• Held a valid PPT for 5 years, or
• A combined total of 5 years between both documents.
• Currently hold a valid PPT at the time of application.

Benefits:

• The main visa holder may apply for visas for dependents or family members
• The visa may be automatically issued through interoperability between Migración Colombia and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

5.     2024 - V Visa: Special Visitor (Transitional Measure)

Resolution 12509 of December 4, 2024:  Created as a transitional and exceptional visa for Venezuelan citizens in irregular migration status.

• Allowed temporary access to basic services and served as a bridge toward regularization through the ETPV or Resident Visa.
• Designed to expand coverage and include those who did not initially enroll in the PPT.
• Only Venezuelan migrants who entered Colombia by December 3, 2024, may apply for this visa.
• Once obtained, this visa grants an open work permit to engage in any lawful activity on their own account, through employment, or through the provision of services.
• It allows the primary holder to apply for the respective visa for their beneficiaries, as well as access educational and social security benefits.

In conclusion, the path towards the immigration regularization of Venezuelans in Colombia has been gradual, flexible and focused on inclusion. From the PEP (2017) to the opportunity to apply for a Resident Visa (2022), the country has created a clear legal pathway to integration. The implementation of the PPT (Resolution 971/2021) and the transitional V Visa (2024) further reinforced this process.

As of today, Venezuelan nationals who have accumulated five years of legal presence under PEP and/or PPT, and currently hold a valid PPT, are eligible to apply for the Resident Visa, thus consolidating their life project in Colombia.

How can we help you?

At Forvis Mazars, we have professionals who are experts in this and other immigration issues. If you require assistance with the information contained in this newsletter, please contact us, and we will be happy to discuss the best way to assist you.