Foreigners’ RUT for Individuals in Colombia
Why is the RUT essential for foreigners? The RUT is the first step to integrate into Colombia’s financial and business world. Whether you plan to start a business, work independently, or establish a company, this document opens the door to developing your economic activities in a formal and transparent manner.
Colombia: A Key Destination for Foreign Professionals and Entrepreneurs
Colombia has become a prime destination for foreigners looking to start a business or establish their professional careers. In this context, the Registro Único Tributario (RUT), or Tax Identification Number, is an essential requirement. This document not only identifies you within the Colombian tax system but is also indispensable for processes such as opening bank accounts and meeting tax obligations. More than just a number, the RUT is a tool that opens the doors to financial and business growth in Colombia.
At USP Consultancy, we understand how important it is for our foreign clients to clearly and simply comprehend what the RUT is and how to obtain it. We guide you through each section of the RUT application form and the necessary steps to complete the process, whether in person or virtually. Our goal is to make it easier for foreigners to integrate into the Colombian tax system, ensuring an efficient and successful process that allows them to maximize the opportunities the country has to offer.
What is the RUT?
The Registro Único Tributario (RUT), or Tax Identification Number, is a key tool within Colombia’s fiscal structure. This document is indispensable for both Colombian citizens and foreigners seeking to conduct economic activities in the country. Issued by the Dirección de Impuestos y Aduanas Nacionales (DIAN), the RUT serves as a unique tax identifier assigned to each taxpayer, whether an individual or a legal entity, allowing integration into Colombia’s fiscal and commercial system.

The RUT: A Key Tool for Your Economic Integration in Colombia
The Registro Único Tributario (RUT) is a compendium of essential information required to comply with tax obligations in Colombia. It is used by the DIAN to identify, locate, and classify individuals and entities within the tax system, considering their economic, commercial, and financial activities.
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Tax Identification Number:
Número de Identificación Tributaria (NIT)
This number is unique for every individual or company and is essential for conducting any economic transaction, from issuing invoices to opening businesses. -
Personal Information and Economic Activity
The RUT includes detailed information such as the taxpayer’s name, address, type of economic activity, and classification within the Colombian tax system. -
Classification and Tax Responsibilities
This document defines the specific tax responsibilities of the taxpayer, including the tax regime they belong to and the fiscal obligations they must fulfill.
Updates and Use of the RUT
It is important to periodically update your RUT in case of changes to your personal information or economic activity. This process can be easily done through the DIAN portal. Keeping your RUT updated ensures compliance with tax regulations and facilitates your participation in the Colombian economic system.
At USP Consultancy, we guide you through every step of the process to obtain or update your RUT, ensuring that you comply with all local regulations efficiently and without complications.

What documents do you need to obtain the RUT as a foreigner?
To process your Registro Único Tributario (RUT) as a foreigner, you need to present the following documents:
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Legible copy of your passport: This document is essential to verify your identity.
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Foreigner ID Card: Mandatory for residents with visas exceeding three months.
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Special Permit of Permanence (PPT): A requirement exclusively for Venezuelan citizens in regular status.
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RUT Registration Form: Completed and signed before submission.
At USP Consultancy, we help you gather and submit the necessary documentation to obtain your RUT quickly and without hassle. Contact us for more information!
Visitor Visa
COLOMBIA-
Study Fee: From 12 to 55 USD
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Issuance Fee: From 51 to 250 USD
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Other Costs: Ask your visa advisor
Migrant Visa
COLOMBIA-
Study Fee: 55 USD
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Issuance Fee: 271 USD
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Other Cost: Ask your visa advisor
Resident Visa
COLOMBIA-
Study Fee: 55 USD
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Issuance Fee: 250 USD
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Other Costs: Ask your visa advisor