Complete Guide to Incorporating an SAS in Colombia in 2025

The Sociedad por Acciones Simplificada (SAS) — Colombia's simplified share company — is the most widely used legal structure for incorporating businesses in Colombia, owing to its flexibility, low cost, and ease of management. Since its introduction under Law 1258 of 2008, it has transformed the entrepreneurship landscape in the country.

Why Choose an SAS?

• Liability is limited to the capital contributed
• Can be incorporated by a single shareholder
• No board of directors or statutory auditor (revisor fiscal) is required, except in certain cases
• Flexible bylaws that can be tailored to each business
• Fast incorporation: on average 3 to 5 business days

Requirements to Incorporate an SAS

1. Incorporation document (public deed or authenticated private document)
2. Registration with the Chamber of Commerce (Cámara de Comercio) of the relevant city
3. Enrollment in the RUT (Tax Registry) with the DIAN (Colombia's National Tax and Customs Authority)
4. Opening of a corporate bank account
5. Registration of accounting books

Approximate Costs in 2025

Costs vary depending on the subscribed capital. For an SAS with capital of COP $10,000,000, Chamber of Commerce registration fees generally range between COP $300,000 and COP $600,000. Attorney's fees for drafting the bylaws are additional.

Steps in the Process

1. Define the corporate purpose, capital structure, and shareholder composition
2. Draft the corporate bylaws
3. Authenticate the document before a notary (if using a private document)
4. File with the Chamber of Commerce
5. Obtain the NIT (Tax Identification Number) from the DIAN
6. Register with the social security system

Common Mistakes When Incorporating an SAS

• Generic bylaws that fail to adequately protect the shareholders
• Omitting exit clauses for shareholders
• Insufficient capital for initial operations
• Failing to clearly define the responsibilities of the legal representative

Seeking legal advice from the outset prevents costly problems down the road. Contact us for a free consultation at Jurídiconline.

El asistente jurídico digital de Jurídiconline analiza tu situación específica. La revisión inicial es gratuita.