What Is a Salvoconducto?
If your Colombian visa is about to expire, your immigration process is still pending, or something unexpected happened, you’ll likely hear about the salvoconducto.
This document, issued by Migración Colombia, is essentially a temporary permit that keeps you legally compliant while you resolve your immigration status—or while you prepare to leave the country without penalties.
Think of it as a legal bridge that prevents you from falling into irregular status.
Types of Salvoconducto in Colombia
Not every case is the same. That’s why there are different types of salvoconducto. Knowing which one applies to you is key to making the right decision, especially if your Colombian visa is expiring or still under process:
Type | Purpose | Validity |
SC-1 – Exit Salvoconducto | For foreigners whose Colombian visa has expired, been canceled, or who must leave Colombia in order. | Up to 30 calendar days |
SC-2 – Stay Salvoconducto | For those applying for a new Colombian visa or regularizing their immigration status. | 30 days, extendable for another 30 |
Refugee Salvoconducto | For asylum seekers awaiting a decision. | Up to 180 days, renewable |
Who Should Apply?
You may be wondering: “Do I really need a salvoconducto?”
The answer is yes—if you find yourself in any of these situations:
- You are applying for a new Colombian visa and it hasn’t been approved yet.
- Your Colombian visa was canceled and you need time to organize your departure.
- You are in deportation or expulsion proceedings.
- You have applied for asylum or refugee status.
- You are facing exceptional humanitarian, medical, or administrative circumstances.
👉 In short: if you need more time to resolve your immigration status, this document is your legal safety net.
Requirements to Apply
Before starting the process, make sure you have all the required documents ready. Missing just one can delay everything. Typically, you’ll need:
- Valid passport.
- FUT (Formulario Único de Trámites) completed online at the Migración Colombia website.
- Supporting documents such as proof of a pending Colombian visa application, exit ticket, or medical/humanitarian justification.
Cost and Validity in 2025
Here’s what you need to know:
- Fee in 2025: COP $84,000.
- Standard validity: 30 calendar days.
- Possible extension: Another 30 days, if requested at least 5 days before expiration.
- For refugee cases: Up to 180 days, renewable.
💡 Pro tip: Don’t wait until the last minute to request an extension.
Extending the Salvoconducto
If your immigration process isn’t resolved within the initial 30 days, you can request an extension. You’ll need:
- The original salvoconducto.
- A copy of your passport.
- A copy of your last Colombian visa (if applicable).
- A letter explaining why you are requesting an extension.
Migración Colombia will evaluate your request case by case.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
The process might look simple on paper, but in practice it’s easy to run into problems:
❌ What if Migración rejects your application?
❌ What if you miss a deadline or don’t attach the right document?
One mistake could leave you in irregular status, which can seriously affect your future in Colombia.
At Nexo Legal, we’re here to support you:
- We review your case and identify exactly what you need.
- We guide you step by step so you don’t waste time or money.
- We give you peace of mind that your process is handled correctly from the start.
A salvoconducto might sound like just another piece of paper—but in reality, it’s your guarantee of staying compliant while you organize your life in Colombia. It protects you from fines, sanctions, and bigger legal problems.
👉 If you’re unsure where to start with your salvoconducto or need guidance with your Colombian visa, reach out to Nexo Legal. One of our immigration attorneys will help you resolve your case quickly and smoothly—so you can focus on your life, not your paperwork.
Get started with a free case assessment
What will happen after you fill out this form?
After submitting the form, your case undergoes a comprehensive review by our team of specialist to assess its viability. Providing clear and concise information about your objectives accelerates this process.
Subsequently, a specialist will be assigned to your case, reaching out to you within a day to clear up details about your case and outline the next steps to help you achieve your goals.
Get started with a free case assessment
What will happen after you fill out this form?
After submitting the form, your case undergoes a comprehensive review by our team of specialist to assess its viability. Providing clear and concise information about your objectives accelerates this process.
Subsequently, a specialist will be assigned to your case, reaching out to you within a day to clear up details about your case and outline the next steps to help you achieve your goals.