How to Start a SAS Company in Colombia: The Ultimate Guide for Foreign Investors

Colombia has become one of the hottest hubs for foreign investment, startups, and expats in South America. Whether you are looking to invest in real estate in Medellin, launch a tech startup in Bogota, or open a business on the Caribbean coast, establishing a local entity is the smartest move.

If you want to start a business in colombia, the S.A.S. (Sociedad por Acciones Simplificada) is the absolute best corporate structure. It offers flexibility, limits your liability, and can be incorporated with just one shareholder.

Here is a step-by-step blueprint on how to register a business in colombia and successfully set up a company in colombia without the legal headaches.

Step 1: Choose Your Company Name and Check Availability

Before filing any paperwork, you must ensure your desired company name isn’t already taken. This is checked through a national database called RUES. Your corporate name must end with "S.A.S." (e.g., Expat Investment Services S.A.S.).

Step 2: Draft the Company Bylaws (Estatutos)

The bylaws are the constitution of your company. This document defines:

• Who the shareholders and legal representatives are.

• The business activities (we recommend a broad corporate purpose so you can pivot or expand easily).

• How capital is structured and shares are distributed.

Expat Pro-Tip: While a S.A.S. allows for private documents without a notary public, if you are registering from abroad, you will need a specialized incorporation lawyer in colombia to handle powers of attorney (POA) and apostilles.

Step 3: Obtain the Pre-RUT (Tax ID)

Once your documents are ready, you must request a temporary Tax Identification Number (Pre-RUT) from the Colombian Tax Authority (DIAN). This step is mandatory before official registration.

Step 4: Register with the Chamber of Commerce (Cámara de Comercio)

With your bylaws and Pre-RUT in hand, you officially file for sas company formation colombia at the local Chamber of Commerce (depending on your city, like Medellin, Bogota, or Barranquilla). Once approved, they will issue your Certificado de Existencia y Representación Legal (the company’s birth certificate).

Step 5: Open a Corporate Bank Account

This is often the most challenging step for foreign investors when doing business in colombia. Colombian banks have strict compliance and anti-money laundering regulations. You will need:

• The Chamber of Commerce certificate.

• The temporary RUT.

• Identification of the legal representative (foreigners need a Cédula de Extranjería or a valid visa/passport with proper POA).

Step 6: Get the Final RUT and Digital Signature

Once your bank account is active, you return to the DIAN to transform your Pre-RUT into the final, official RUT. Finally, you must set up your electronic signature to file monthly or yearly corporate taxes.

Do You Need an English-Speaking Accountant in Colombia?

Navigating corporate law and the DIAN in a foreign language can be risky. Sanciones (fines) for non-compliance can ruin a new business before it even starts.

If you are looking for secure accounting services colombia and professional foreign investment in colombia advice, we are here to help. Our team of bilingual corporate lawyers and accountants will handle your business registration colombia 100% remotely.

👉 [Click here to schedule a free consultation via WhatsApp with our English-speaking team today!]