How is the 2026 Smmlv Calculated for the Colombia Retirement Visa?
The 2026 monthly income requirement for the Colombia pensionado visa (M-11) is calculated using a specific multiple of the Colombian legal minimum wage, known as the SMMLV (Salario Mínimo Mensual Legal Vigente).
Rather than a fixed dollar amount, the Colombian government sets the income floor based on the following formula:
- The M-11 pensionado visa requires your monthly pension to equal or exceed 3 SMMLVs.
- The SMMLV is adjusted annually by the Colombian government, meaning the required peso amount changes each year while the 3x multiple remains constant.
- For 2026, the 3-SMMLV threshold approximates to roughly $1,000 USD per month, depending on prevailing exchange rates.
To verify your eligibility, we recommend converting your monthly benefit (such as VA disability or Social Security) into Colombian pesos using current rates to ensure it clears the 3-SMMLV line. For example, if the SMMLV is approximately 1,300,000 COP, the requirement would be roughly 3,900,000 COP monthly.
Disclaimer: Individual circumstances and outcomes vary — results, costs, and eligibility may differ by person. Information is educational and not a substitute for professional legal or VA benefit advice; please consult with an immigration lawyer or appropriate professional.