This article provides a comprehensive overview of the average costs involved in creating and maintaining a standard Sociedad por Acciones Simplificada (SAS) company in Colombia. All figures are presented in Colombian Pesos (COP), with USD conversions provided at an approximate rate of 1 USD = 4,000 COP for 2025.
Company Formation Costs in Colombia (SAS)
The following table summarizes the average expenses required to establish a SAS company in Colombia, based on multiple official sources. These costs reflect the market average in 2025 and account for standard company formation with professional legal guidance.
| Expense Item | Amount (COP) | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Registration & Book Registration (Cámara de Comercio) | $800,000 | $200 |
| Notary Fees & Document Preparation | $200,000 | $50 |
| Registration Tax | $400,000 | $100 |
| Average Legal Fees | $400,000 | $100 |
| Minimum Required Capital | $0 | $0 |
| Total (Average) | $1,800,000 | $450 |
Colombia does not require a minimum capital deposit to establish a SAS, which streamlines initial setup. Professional legal support is recommended and included in the averages above.
SAS Company Annual Maintenance Costs
Annual maintenance for a SAS company in Colombia encompasses mandatory registration renewals, accounting, and audit expenses. Costs will vary based on company size and complexity. The table below summarizes typical annual costs for 2025.
| Maintenance Item | Annual Cost (COP) | Annual Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Registration Renewal | $800,000 | $200 |
| Accounting/Audit Fees (Minimum) | $400,000 | $100 |
| Accounting/Audit Fees (Maximum Recommended) | $2,700,000 | $675 |
| Administrative Tax Return/Other Statutory Filings | $0 | $0 |
| Typical Total Range | $1,200,000 – $3,500,000 | $300 – $875 |
Accounting and audit costs vary significantly depending on the nature and size of operations. All companies must renew their commercial registration annually, regardless of activity level. There are no explicit extra charges for required annual income tax filings beyond administrative and professional costs.
Official Sources
Pro Tips for Managing Company Costs in Colombia
- 1. Review local chamber of commerce guidelines annually – Registration rates change each year and are linked to the Colombian minimum wage, so verify current fees before renewal.
- 2. Separate legal and operational expenses – Legal fees for registration are one-time, but accounting costs recur yearly; budgeting for each element ensures compliance.
- 3. Leverage simplified regimes if eligible – For smaller SAS companies, simplified accounting may be available, reducing maintenance expenses over time.
- 4. Maintain accurate books throughout the year – Well-organized accounting reduces annual audit and compliance costs and prevents administrative delays.
Essential Points When Evaluating Company Setup Costs in Colombia
Setting up a SAS in Colombia typically involves straightforward and predictable costs, with the full setup averaging $1,800,000 COP (~$450 USD). Annual maintenance, including registration renewal and minimum accounting fees, ranges from $1,200,000 to $3,500,000 COP (~$300 to $875 USD), depending on operational complexity. No mandatory minimum capital facilitates easier market entry, but it’s important to stay updated on fluctuating regulatory rates and to partner with reliable accounting professionals for compliance. For authoritative details on company incorporation or annual obligations, consult the official pages of the Cámara de Comercio de Medellín or the Cámara de Comercio de Bogotá. Accurate, timely compliance helps companies avoid unexpected penalties and maintain legal standing in Colombia.