Yes, you can open a company in Colombia without living in the country. Colombian law allows non-resident foreigners to incorporate companies, become shareholders, and even invest 100% in local businesses.
In many cases, the process can be completed remotely through a special power of attorney with apostille.
This makes Colombia an attractive option for investors, digital entrepreneurs, and foreigners who want to expand into Latin America without moving immediately.
In this updated 2026 guide, I explain how it works, the real requirements, legal steps, common risks, and when you may need a visa.
Can a Foreigner Open a Company in Colombia Without Residency?
Yes. You do not need a Colombian visa or residency to incorporate a company in Colombia as a partner or shareholder.
You can be:
- Sole shareholder or together with other partners
- Foreign investor
- Board member (depending on the corporate structure)
- Ultimate beneficial owner of the company
- Legal representative
The structure most commonly used by foreigners is the SAS (Simplified Stock Company) because of its legal flexibility and operational ease.
What Type of Company Is Best If You Do Not Live in Colombia?
SAS: The Most Recommended Option
The SAS is normally the best alternative for non-resident foreigners because it allows:
- One single shareholder
- Flexible capital structure
- Limited liability
- Customized bylaws
- Simple administration
- Fewer formalities than other company types
Additionally, it can be incorporated through a private document, which makes the process easier if you are not in the country.
Other Options
There are also:
- Corporation (S.A.)
- Limited Liability Company (Ltda.)
- Branch of a foreign company
- Sole proprietorship
But for most international investors, the SAS is usually the most efficient route.
Can the Company Be Opened From Abroad?
Yes. In many cases, you can open the company without traveling to Colombia through:
- Special power of attorney with apostille and translated if it is in a language other than Spanish
- Copy of passport
- Signing of corporate documents
- Appointment of legal representative
- Registration before the Chamber of Commerce
This allows lawyers or attorneys-in-fact to complete local procedures on your behalf.
Step by Step to Open a Company in Colombia Without Living Here
1. Define the Legal Structure
Normally SAS.
2. Choose the Business Name
Availability must be verified with the Chamber of Commerce.
3. Draft the Bylaws
Includes:
- Corporate purpose
- Capital
- Shareholders
- Administration
- Powers of the legal representative
4. Sign Power of Attorney or Documents
If you are outside Colombia, it is usually signed with apostille.
5. Register with the Chamber of Commerce
The company legally comes into existence with the commercial registration.
6. Obtain RUT and NIT Before DIAN
Necessary to invoice, hire employees, and file taxes.
7. Open a Corporate Bank Account
Depends on banking compliance and source of funds.
Do I Need a Legal Representative in Colombia?
Practically yes.
Every company needs a registered legal representative, who acts before banks, contracts, DIAN, and authorities.
This can be:
- Yourself (depending on the case)
- A partner
- A hired third party
- Specialized legal firm
In practice, when the investor lives outside the country, a local legal representative is usually appointed to facilitate the opening of bank accounts.
Do I Need a Visa to Open a Company in Colombia?
Not to Incorporate It
You can be a shareholder without a visa.
It May Be Necessary If You Want To:
- Live in Colombia
- Work actively in the daily operation
- Receive local remuneration
- Remain legally long term
In those cases, a business visa or investor visa may be considered depending on the amount invested and the structure.
Taxes and Obligations Even If You Do Not Live in Colombia
Many foreigners believe that if they do not live here, they have no obligations. Common mistake.
The company may still have duties such as:
- Income tax return
- VAT (if applicable)
- Withholding taxes
- Annual Chamber of Commerce renewal
- Formal accounting
- Payroll (if it has employees)
- Ultimate beneficial owner reports (depending on the case)
Common Problems When Opening a Company From Abroad
Using Nominees or “Courtesy Partners”
Putting the company in the name of third parties or using local individuals without real control can create serious legal and operational risks.
That person could misuse the company, incur debts, commit unlawful acts, or even claim rights over the company in the future. Extremely high risk.
No Tax Planning
It can generate unnecessary taxes.
Inadequate Legal Representative
It can paralyze operations.
Not Justifying Source of Funds
Banking and compliance problems.
Opening an “Empty” Company
Even if it does not invoice, it may still maintain obligations.
Is It Worth Opening a Company Without Living in Colombia?
Yes, especially if you seek:
- Real estate investment
- E-commerce
- Exports
- Regional consulting
- Technology
- Investment holding company
- Future LATAM operations
Colombia continues to be a strategic economy in the region with relevant commercial access.
What Documents Are Usually Requested From Foreigners?
Depends on the case, but normally:
- Valid passport
- Main business address of the company, which must be Colombian in order to incorporate locally
- Personal tax information
- Economic activity
- Source of funds
- Apostilled power of attorney (if applicable)
- Foreign corporate documents (if a company will be shareholder of the Colombian company)
Conclusion
Yes, you can open a company in Colombia without living in the country. You do not need residency to be a shareholder or legal representative, and a large part of the process can be completed remotely.
However, doing it correctly requires legal structure, proper representation, tax compliance, and immigration strategy if you later want to move.
Opening easily does not always mean opening correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Own a Company in Colombia as a Foreigner?
Yes. The law allows foreign ownership even up to 100%.
Do I Need a Visa to Open an SAS?
Not necessarily.
Can I Do the Process Online?
A large part of the process can be done online, but keep in mind that the apostille of the power of attorney will depend on the laws and procedures of the country where you are located.
Do I Need an Accountant in Colombia?
Highly recommended and in many cases necessary.
Can the Company Give Me a Visa Later?
Depending on the investment and immigration requirements, yes, it could be evaluated.
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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.