Opening a bank account

Gator says on Jun 21, 2007, 13:25:

Student visa yes-provided you get all the necessary documentation from your school.
Tourist visa, if you have one which I doubt, not likely.

TE student visa good for one year with multiple entrances. Can be renewed each year until the course of study is complete.

General requirements needed;

as .

1. Letter from the Colombian institution certifying that the applicant has been accepted for the program. (original). In case it is an Exchange Program between two Institutions, you must present Authenticated copy of the Agreement between the two Universities or Colleges (if applicable).
2. Copy of the Certificate of Existence of the Colombian institution (personería jurídica).
3. Proof of Financial Solvency: Original of bank statements of the last three months, certificate of incomes or any other financial documents of the applicant, or proof of support from parents or a third person in charge of the student's economical expenses while in Colombia. If a scholarship is financing the studies, a certification from the International Organism, the State, or Private Institution providing the scholarship. It must state that the solicitor has granted a scholarship.
4. Parents' written authorization for under age applicants(18 years), and statement of guardianship of the student while living in Colombia .
5. In case the student will do an internship, submit a letter from the institution stating that it is part of the requirements of the program.
6. Letter from the institution stating the amount of classes per week. It should be at least of 10 hours a week.

After showing proof of admission and paying applicable school fees go to DAS to apply for the cédula. Then off to the bankl which may or may not allow you to open an account. If refused just truck on down to the next bank or branch. Place to start this process is with the Colombian Consulate having jurisdiction where you presently reside.

"Brevior Sltare Cum Deformibus Mulieribus Est Vita!" .

william_andrew_channell says on Jun 21, 2007, 16:35:

When you get your CE, a lot of banks won't let you open an account with the temporary paper one; you'll have to wait till they give you the plastic one to open the account. And remember that you don't really get a tourist visa, but a tourist stamp in your passport with which you can't do anything.

Irothko says on Jun 21, 2007, 17:03:

If you are still in the states, you can start a citibank account there and you can access you money through citibanks in colombia

Gator says on Jun 21, 2007, 17:18:

Citi bank international is what we use-in addition to out Colombian bank. He could use almost any US Bank and just go through an ATM (caja automático). Just check and find who has the lowest charge.

"Brevior Sltare Cum Deformibus Mulieribus Est Vita!" .

chicomalo says on Jun 22, 2007, 02:32:

Citi what a crock. They wanted me to sign a W-9 form. If you open a bank with them and sign that form I hope you like paying taxes in Colombia and the US. Try Bancolombia.

chicomalo says on Jun 22, 2007, 02:45:

I am a Colombian resident with cedula. No need to sign a W-9 but they said it was their policy for US citizens since Citi was home based in the US even though they are not afiliated. Which like I said was a crock of ..... So that was one bank to walk out of.