Job Discussion Forums

G22 · Joined: 25 Oct 2010 Posts: 89

Whatever JacobTm and Martillo are clearly troll accounts.

niezihan · Joined: 29 Apr 2011 Posts: 6

So, is it possible to get a work visa while in Colombia, and if so, how is that handled? From what I have read, it is necessary to leave the country in order to do so.

There is a lot of conflicting information regarding the required documents as well. Even the website for the Colombia Consulate has outdated information. They say that it is necessary to have the Certificado de Proporcinalidad, which was eliminated in December of last year. It also says that an apostilled college diploma is required, but it doesn't mention it needing to be translated, however other sources do.

People have mentioned working without a visa, but really, how safe is that? How likely are you to face problems for such a thing? It isn't legal, after all.

G22 · Joined: 25 Oct 2010 Posts: 89

niezihan · Joined: 29 Apr 2011 Posts: 6

Thank you so much for the information. I have been trying to get a clear answer on that for a while. That sounds rather problematic.

mlawson1776 · Joined: 14 Jun 2011 Posts: 5

I was thinking about taking the September CELTA course in Bogota and looking for a job in Medellin(I would prefer Medellin to Bogota). One plan is to work at a language institute in Bogota right after getting my cert., then look for a school job in Medellin, probably in January, when some schools start and some have their mid-year break(and might be hiring). I'm thinking I could get my work visa while in Bogota, making it easier to find a job in Medellin. Just trying to get thoughts on this plan. Is it feasible? Is it misguided? Any info is helpful.

spanglish · Joined: 21 May 2009 Posts: 742 Location: working on that

The work visa is tied to your job, so getting a visa with a job in Bogota won't really help you find a job in Medellin. It's a bit less complicated to switch your visa to a new job than it is to initially get it, but you still have to find an employer who is willing and able to jump through the hoops for you.

Medellin seems to be a much tougher job market than Bogota. I met a British guy who lives in Medellin and does examinations for Cambridge/British Council. He said that he got work visas for (some of?) his teachers and I know at one point International House wanted somebody to work there. Other than that you could look into EAFIT and colegios in the area. EAFIT would probably be your best bet.