Business Law Services in Colombia
Looking for Business Law Services in Colombia? We’ve got you covered in English and German, from Medellín.
Have legal questions?
Let’s Make Your Move to Colombia Simple and Stress-Free.
Comprehensive Business Law Services for Success in Colombia
Colombia has become one of the most interesting markets in Latin America for foreign business. Medellín specifically has seen a significant rise in foreign entrepreneurs digital nomads turning freelance work into registered businesses, international investors entering the real estate and tourism sectors, and companies setting up BPO operations taking advantage of the skilled local workforce and favorable cost structure. Foreign investment regulations have also improved over the past decade, making Colombia more accessible than it used to be. But “accessible” doesn’t mean simple. The legal requirements for setting up and running a business here are real, and getting them wrong has real consequences fines from the DIAN, blocked bank accounts, unenforceable contracts, or labor claims that could have been avoided.
Our Business Law Services for Foreigners in Colombia Include:
These are the eight specific areas of business law we handle at Lynceus. Each one has a dedicated page with more detail — click through if you want to understand the process for your specific situation.
01
Company Incorporation & SAS Structuring
Form your Colombian SAS in 2–3 weeks. 100% foreign ownership, no minimum capital, remote formation available.
02
Foreign Branch Registration (Sucursales)
Register your foreign company's sucursal in Colombia the right structure for direct parent company operations.
03
Shareholder Agreements (Acuerdos de Accionistas)
Protect equity stakes, define governance, and establish exit mechanisms enforceable under Colombian commercial law.
04
Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A)
Due diligence, deal structuring, and closing support for acquisitions of Colombian businesses by foreign buyers.
05
Commercial Registry Management (RUES)
RUES filings, annual renewals, changes to registered data, and Cámara de Comercio management.
06
Corporate Governance & Board Advisory
Board resolutions, meeting minutes, governance frameworks, and cross-border reporting structures.
07
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Registration
Banco de la República filings — required for fund repatriation, dividend remittance, and investor visa applications.
08
Opening Corporate Bank Accounts
Navigate Colombian bank onboarding requirements for foreign-owned companies — we know what each bank needs.
Ready to Simplify Business Law Challenges in Colombia?
If you have a business question about Colombia — whether you’re just starting to explore the idea or you’re already mid-process and something has gone wrong — we’d like to hear from you. Our initial consultation for business law is free. We’ll tell you honestly what your situation looks like and what it would take to resolve it.
Opening a Business in Colombia as a Foreigner
Colombia is genuinely open to foreign business ownership. In most sectors, foreigners can form Colombian companies and own 100% of a local entity with the same rights as Colombian nationals. There are no general restrictions on foreign equity participation in standard commercial activities.
That said, certain regulated sectors have specific rules on foreign participation — including financial services, television broadcasting, and activities related to national security. If your business falls into a regulated industry, we assess the applicable restrictions as part of your initial consultation. For the vast majority of foreign entrepreneurs and investors we work with — operating in real estate, technology, retail, services, hospitality, or general commerce — there are no foreign ownership barriers to worry about.
Why Foreign Businesses in Colombia Choose Lynceus
There are a number of law firms in Medellín. Here is why clients who speak English or German consistently come back to us and refer others:
- We actually speak your language — Not just English for basic communication, but native-level legal English and German. Laura Grisales, our founding partner, is fluent in all three languages and handles complex cross-border matters regularly. Gabriel Marín speaks English, French, German, and Spanish. You will never be handed off to a translator for important conversations.
- We are recognized by institutions that matter — Lynceus is listed on the German Embassy website in Bogotá, registered with the AHK (German Chamber of Commerce in Colombia), and listed in the Medellín Chamber of Commerce’s commercial guide. These are not paid listings — they are the result of a track record.
- We give you clear pricing upfront — Initial consultations for business law are free. After that, we give you a clear quote before starting any work. No surprises, no hidden fees. For standard processes like company formation, we offer fixed-price packages.
- You work with the lawyer, not a junior — We are a boutique firm. Your matter is handled by experienced attorneys, not passed down to paralegals or assistants. You have direct access to the lawyer handling your case throughout the process.
- We respond fast — We reply to inquiries within 24 hours on weekdays, usually the same day. We are reachable by WhatsApp, email, and phone. If something urgent comes up, we are accessible.
How We Work — Our Process
We follow a clear four-step process for every business law matter. No surprises, no ambiguity about what comes next.
Consultation
We start with a free consultation to understand your situation and goals. This can be done by phone, WhatsApp, video call, or in person at our office in Medellín's Belén district. We listen before we advise, because the right legal strategy depends on understanding your specific circumstances.
Assessment and Transparent Quote
After the initial consultation, we give you a written assessment of your legal situation and a clear quote for the work involved. We explain what the process looks like, how long it typically takes, and what we need from you. If we think your situation doesn't actually require legal support, we'll tell you that too.
Document Collection and Preparation
We send you a clear checklist of everything we need — no chasing you for documents we should have asked for earlier. We guide you through any documents that need to be apostilled, translated, or certified, and we coordinate directly with Colombian authorities and notaries on your behalf.
Execution and Resolution
We handle all the legal work. We keep you informed at every step in your preferred language English, German, or Spanish. You get direct updates from your attorney, not generic status emails. We work until the matter is resolved, and we're available for follow-up questions after it is.
Explore Our Areas of Expertise
Expert bilingual attorneys serving entrepreneurs and investors in Medellín. Full English and German support from company formation to property closing.
Business Law
Launch your Colombian company in 2-3 weeks. We handle complete soft landing, SAS formation, tax registration (RUT) and investor visa processing. From incorporation to compliance, we're your local legal team with communication in English or German.
Real Estate law
Protect your property investment with comprehensive due diligence. We verify title status, check for liens, analyze market pricing, and guide you through every step from offer to closing. Property owner visa support included ensuring your investment is secure and compliant.
Inheritance Law
Do you want to have your will drafted or did you inherit something in Colombia. We will help you get the property to your name.
Tax Law
We consult you regarding tax law in colombia and how to declare properly. We also offer accounting services.
IP&IT Law
We do trademark registration for you.
Family Law
We have managed cases of marriage, prenup, adoption and divorce.
Criminal Law
Legal Defense & Representation. Facing legal charges in Colombia? We provide experienced criminal defense, protecting your rights throughout the legal process.
Our team
Expert Legal Team with Proven Track Record in Colombia
Gabriel marín
International Private Law Attorney
Language: English, French, German, Spanish
Medellín & Antioquia — and Remotely
Our office is in Medellín’s Belén district. We travel to other cities in Antioquia when the work requires it. For clients outside Colombia, almost everything can be handled remotely until the steps that require your physical presence.
Medellín has become one of the most active cities in Latin America for foreign entrepreneurs — digital nomads, real estate investors, BPO operators, and technology companies. We have worked with clients in all of these sectors and understand the specific legal structures and compliance requirements that apply to each.
Frequently Asked Questions About Business Law Services in Colombia
What is the SAS in Colombian business law?
The SAS (Sociedad por Acciones Simplificada) is Colombia’s most flexible company structure. One or more shareholders, no minimum capital, limited liability, and no notary required for single-founder formations. Governed by Law 1258 of 2008. Best choice for most foreign investors.
How does Colombian labor law affect foreign businesses?
It applies equally to all companies regardless of ownership. Employers must pay minimum wage, social security, pension, health contributions, and severance. Misclassifying employees as contractors creates serious liability. Same rules apply to foreign and local companies.
How can businesses resolve disputes under Colombian contract law?
Through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation. Commercial arbitration is most common for significant disputes. International arbitration clauses (ICC, UNCITRAL) are enforceable in Colombia.
Can foreign businesses own property in Colombia?
Yes. No restrictions on foreign property ownership. Foreign funds used for purchase must be registered with the Banco de la República via Form 4 (Declaración de Cambio).
What are the benefits of hiring a business lawyer in Colombia?
Avoiding costly mistakes — wrong company structure, unenforceable contracts, labor misclassification, unregistered foreign investment. A local lawyer also speeds up the process significantly.
How does Colombian contract law protect businesses?
Colombian contracts are enforceable under the Civil and Commercial Code. Courts uphold penalty clauses and specific performance. Arbitration clauses are the fastest protection — litigation takes longer.
I am starting a business in Medellín. Do I really need to form a company, and do I need a SAS?
You can also do business as a natural person, but most of the time a SAS is recommended to protect your personal assets. It is easy and fast to open a SAS and you can be the sole owner.
What problems can I face without a lawyer?
We have had clients who choose difficult business areas and then later are not able to open a bank account. We can help you choose the correct registration numbers so you dont run into trouble later. Opening a bank account is one of the more difficult steps when opening a company in Colombia.
My business is digital and my clients are in the US. Do I still have to pay 35% tax and 19% IVA?
If you are exporting services these services can be declared as export of services and be tax free (exento del IVA) in Colombia. You still have to pay 35% tax on earning s but you can lower it if you have cost, e.g. own salary.
Ready to Get Started? Get in touch now.
Schedule your consultation today. We'll discuss your needs, outline the process, and provide a transparent quote. No surprises, no hidden costs.
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