Application for Colombian Nationality by Naturalization: Practical Aspects

Nationality is a legal, political, and emotional bond between a person and a State, as defined by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MRE). In the case of foreign nationals holding another nationality, or stateless individuals residing in Colombian territory, it is not mandatory to apply for Colombian nationality, regardless of how long they have lived in the country, as long as they meet the requirements for a visa. Obtaining Colombian nationality involves an essential element of volition: feeling Colombian.

1. How can a foreign citizen be naturalized as Colombian?

The process of naturalization is regulated by Law 2332 of 2023. Any foreigner holding a resident visa and who has been domiciled in Colombia for a period of five years with such visa may apply for Colombian nationality by naturalization.

2. Can this period be reduced?

Yes, in the following cases:

For Latin Americans and Caribbean nationals by birth, and stateless individuals: 1 year.

For Spanish nationals by birth, and spouses or permanent partners of Colombian nationals: 2 years.

3. What interrupts the period of domicile?

A resident visa holder who leaves the country for a period of one year or more will lose the accumulated domicile time required to apply for naturalization.

4. What are the requirements for the application process?

In addition to the documents required at the time of application in accordance with Article 9 of Law 2332 of 2023, all foreign nationals under 60 years of age must take an exam on the Colombian Constitution, national history, culture, and geography. Foreigners whose native language is not Spanish must also pass a Spanish language proficiency exam.

Exemptions apply to foreigners who can prove that they have completed high school, undergraduate, or graduate studies at officially recognized Colombian educational institutions.

5. Once the application is submitted, how long does it take to get a response?

The MRE may take up to three months to review the formal requirements of the documents initially submitted. It may also request that the applicant remedy any deficiencies within a six-month period; failure to do so may result in the application being archived. During the review process, the MRE will request reports from the DIAN and Migration Colombia regarding the applicant. Once all reports have been received, the MRE has no specific deadline to issue a substantive decision on the application.

6. Are there any exceptions to this regime?

The only way to be exempt from the ordinary regime is through a convenience opinion issued by the Presidency of the Republic and sent to the MRE. Only the President of the Republic has the authority to exempt an applicant from meeting the naturalization requirements.