Host Your Event in Bogota

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Guide to Organizing World-Class Events in Bogota

Access a practical guide with everything you need to plan your event in the city. Find key information on operating models through agents or direct arrangements, foreign exchange considerations for international transfers, essential legal matters, and more.

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1. Event Organization

How can a non-resident or foreign individual participate in organizing a MICE event in Colombia?

Contenido del acordeón

Contracts in Colombia can be executed under Colombian law, allowing foreign individuals to engage in commercial activities without the need for a legal presence in the country. These include:

  • The collaboration agreement, where parties join forces to conduct a project or activity without forming a new company.
  • The mandate agreement, under which an agent performs business acts on behalf of the principal in exchange for a fee.
  • The service provision agreement, where the contractor conducts activities independently in exchange for payment.

A foreign company can operate in Colombia temporarily through individual contracts or establish a permanent presence by forming a company, choosing the appropriate legal structure based on its needs. Options include:

  • The Simplified Joint Stock Company (S.A.S.), offering flexibility with limited liability and no cap on the number of shareholders.
  • The Limited Liability Company, ideal for small groups with up to 25 shareholders and liability limited to contributed capital.
  • The Corporation (S.A.), suitable for large operations, requiring at least five shareholders.

Companies incorporated in Colombia must comply with various tax obligations, including a 35% income tax on taxable income. They are also subject to withholding tax depending on the type of service contracted (e.g., 4% for general services), the general 19% VAT on services—with exceptions and reduced rates for specific activities—and the Industry and Commerce Tax (ICA), which applies to income generated in each municipality where services are provided, with rates ranging between 0.2% and 1% depending on the municipality or district.

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2. Venue rental

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3. Staffing

Staff can be hired locally or internationally.

According to External Resolution No. 1 of 2018, service payments may be voluntarily processed through a foreign exchange intermediary. Companies must report payments using a foreign exchange declaration, which categorizes the transaction under specific codes:

  • Code 2906: for business services, consulting, advisory, and software development.
  • Code 2900: for business travel and labor payments to non-residents.

Benefits of voluntary channeling: Not channeling payments can simplify processes for less complex transactions. However, if the payment is processed through the exchange market, it must be reported using the appropriate code.

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4. Foreign Exchange Matters

Outbound Wire Transfers.

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5. Personal Data Processing and Event Content

  • Collection and processing of personal data: It must be determined whether the event will have free admission or require prior registration. In the latter case, consent will be requested to collect and process personal data from participants and/or attendees.
  • Marketing and publicity: Define the media, methods, and channels for promoting the event in question.
  • Copyright and intellectual property: Determine whether the event will feature experts, speakers, etc., who will present or generate content that may be subject to copyright protection.

Need more information?

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Foto Luisa Vásquez

Luisa Vásquez

Senior Convention Bureau Officer
lvasquez@investinbogota.org

Kamila Caselles

Senior Convention Bureau Officer
ncaselles@investinbogota.org

Foto de Luz Aida Salcedo

Luz Aida Salcedo

Senior Convention Bureau Officer
lsalcedo@investinbogota.org

Alejandra Mejía

Senior Convention Bureau Officer
amejia@investinbogota.org