Are you a Colombian citizen planning to move to the United States? Navigating the U.S. immigration system can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Law and Visas is here to simplify the process and provide personalized support to help you achieve immigration success. Whether you’re moving to reunite with family, marry your partner, or pursue a new life, this guide will walk you through the key visa options, application steps, and requirements to move from Colombia to the U.S.
Choosing the Right Visa for Your Move
The U.S. offers different visa options depending on your circumstances. If you’re reuniting with a spouse, marrying your fiancé, or immigrating with children, there’s a visa tailored to your situation. Let’s explore the main options available for Colombian citizens.
Marriage-Based Green Card
If you’re already married or plan to marry soon, you can apply for a marriage-based green card to move to the U.S. This process allows Colombian spouses of U.S. citizens or permanent residents to live and work permanently in the U.S.
- How It Works:
- The U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse begins by filing a petition (Form I-130).
- After approval, the Colombian spouse submits a green card application.
- Timelines and costs vary depending on where the Colombian spouse currently lives and whether the sponsoring spouse is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Why Choose Law and Visas?
Our team provides step-by-step guidance on documentation, timelines, and application fees. From navigating the paperwork to tracking your application, we’re here to help.
K-1 Fiancé Visa
If you’re engaged to a U.S. citizen, the K-1 fiancé visa allows you to move to the U.S., marry your partner within 90 days, and apply for a green card afterward.
- What to Know:
- The application process for Colombian citizens is the same as for applicants from other countries.
- After your marriage in the U.S., you’ll file for adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident.
- Costs and Timeline:
- Costs for the K-1 visa include filing fees, medical exams, and travel. Processing times can vary based on individual circumstances.
At Law and Visas, we simplify the K-1 visa process by ensuring your forms are correct, your timeline is realistic, and you’re well-prepared for interviews.
K-2 Visa for Children
Planning to immigrate with children? If you’re applying for a K-1 fiancé visa, your unmarried children under 21 may be eligible for the K-2 visa to accompany you.
- How It Works:
- Your children’s applications are submitted alongside yours for no extra cost.
- Once approved, they can immigrate with you and adjust their status in the U.S.
IR-2 Child Visa
For U.S. citizens with children living in Colombia, the IR-2 visa allows children under 21 to immigrate and join their parents.
- Eligibility:
- The parent must be a U.S. citizen.
- Proof of the parent-child relationship is required.
With Law and Visas, you’ll receive detailed guidance on gathering documents, filing forms, and ensuring your child’s smooth transition to the U.S.
Required Documents for Colombian Applicants
Colombian citizens need specific civil documents for their visa applications. These include:
- Birth Certificates: Request a copia del folio, a long-form version that includes details like parents’ names, grandparents’ names, and the place of birth.
- Marriage Certificates: Civil marriage records are required, even if your marriage was performed by the Church. For religious ceremonies, civil registration is mandatory.
- Divorce Certificates: Certified copies of divorce decrees are required if applicable.
Ensure that all documents are certified and meet U.S. immigration standards. If additional records (e.g., religious baptism or marriage certificates) are requested, these can be obtained from the church parish where the events occurred.
Applying Through the U.S. Embassy in Colombia
All U.S. immigrant visa applications from Colombian citizens are processed at the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá.
- Address:
Carrera 45 No. 24B-27, Bogotá, D.C., Colombia - Contact:
- Phone: (+57) (1) 275-2000
- Email: asa_contactus+co+info+es@visaops.net
The embassy is your main point of contact for interviews, document submission, and visa approval.
Special Considerations
For Venezuelan Applicants
Due to the suspension of U.S. consular services in Venezuela, all Venezuelan applicants must process their immigrant visas through the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá. If you’re Venezuelan but living in Colombia or another country, you’ll need to travel to Bogotá for your visa interview.
Financial and Travel Considerations
Moving to the U.S. involves financial planning, especially if you’re starting a new job or settling your family. Law and Visas provides resources to help you:
- Open U.S. bank accounts
- Establish credit and access to financial services
- File taxes and secure health insurance
Start Your Journey Today
Immigrating from Colombia to the U.S. doesn’t have to be stressful. With Law and Visas, you’ll get personalized guidance every step of the way. From choosing the right visa to preparing for interviews and submitting your application, we’re here to make the process smooth and worry-free.
Let’s start your immigration journey today. Contact Law and Visas to explore your options and take the first step toward your new life in the U.S.
