Dear Digital Nomads,
I hope this message finds you well. I have an important update regarding the renewal of your Digital Nomad visa and the application process for new applicants.
New Requirement: Criminal Record with Apostille Stamp and Official Spanish Translation
Starting three weeks ago, a new mandatory requirement was implemented for Digital Nomad visa renewals and new applications in Colombia. This requirement mandates the submission of a criminal record with an Apostille stamp, and officially translated into Spanish. Here are the key details:
1. For U.S. Citizens:
- 1. For U.S. Citizens: Only FBI criminal records are accepted. Local or State police records are generally not accepted.
- The Apostille stamp must be obtained from the U.S. Department of State, not from the Secretary of State office, as the FBI certificate is a Federal document.
2. For Citizens of Other Countries:
- You must determine the authority that issues your criminal records and the Apostille stamp in your home country.
3. Official Translations:
- We recommend obtaining official translations in Colombia to avoid the additional requirement of Apostille stamps for translations done abroad. Translations are also more affordable in Colombia.
- My office offers official translation services for your convenience.
- Ensure your official translator provides a copy of their license. Machine-generated translations (e.g., ChatGPT or Google Translate) will not be accepted by Colombian visa authorities.
Timely Preparation is Crucial
Obtaining criminal records and Apostille stamps from your home country can take several weeks and may be challenging to arrange from Colombia. We advise starting this process as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary stress. In some cases, you may want to consider the assistance of a freelancer or a family member in your country. While some agencies in Colombia offer intermediary services to obtain these documents, their fees can be extremely high. These documents are ultimately obtainable on your own with the right guidance.
The criminal record certificate and Apostille cannot be older than 90 days for use in a Colombian visa application. Please check your visa expiration date and begin the process of obtaining your criminal records and Apostille stamp well in advance.
Our Services:
While our office is committed to assisting you with your visa application and immigration needs in Colombia, we cannot help in obtaining documents from your country of origin or legal residence. However, we are here to guide you and advise you on any changes in Colombian laws.
If you have any questions, please send your inquiries via email, and I will be glad to assist you at owen@owentaylorattorney.com
Cordially,
Owen Taylor
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