colombia tourist visa duration

TOURIST VISA

The first visitor’s visa must always be processed at Colombian consulates abroad. In all other cases, it may be granted in Bogota, provided the applicant has a valid visa. This visa may be granted to foreigners who wish to enter Colombia for rest or recreation and who require a tourist visa to enter and remain temporarily in Colombia, as established in resolution 5707 of 2008. Requirements

√    Payment for visa study of USD 50 √    Valid passport or travel document, in good condition and with a minimum of two blank pages. √    Two (2) recent 3x3 photographs, facing the camera, in color and against a white background. √    Documents evidencing that the economic capacity is sufficient to remain in Colombia as a tourist. √    If invited, a letter or document accrediting the economic solvency of the person who has invited or assumes responsibility for the foreigner, his/her stay in and departure from Colombia. √    Photocopy or electronic information of the respective tickets for departure from Colombia. Cost of visa: USD 45, with the exception of the countries listed below:  

Place issued: Avenida 19 No. 98-03, Pisos 3 and 4, Bogota.

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Do I need a visa to travel to Colombia?

Sep 23, 2023 • 5 min read

Find out if you need a visa to visit Colombia and how to get one if you do © F.J. Jimenez / Getty Images

Famed for its warm and welcoming atmosphere and its plethora of jaw-dropping national parks, sun-soaked beaches and dynamic cities, Colombia is fast becoming one of South America’s most popular travel destinations, drawing footloose backpackers and family vacationers in droves.

Adding to the appeal, visa requirements for Colombia are fairly straightforward, with visa-free travel available for a large number of countries, plus a simple online visa application process for those who need one.

As anywhere, requirements can change without warning, so it’s always important to double-check the latest guidance from your local Colombian embassy , but here are the most important things you need to know about visas for Colombia.

What are the entry requirements for Colombia?

Travelers from 102 countries and territories, including the USA, Canada, the UK, New Zealand and Australia, and most countries in the EU and EEA, can enter Colombia visa-free as tourists. Upon arrival, visitors from countries on the approved list receive a passport stamp granting a stay of up to 90 days.

There are a few conditions. You'll need a minimum of six months left on your passport before it expires and you may be asked to show proof of an onward ticket for travel out of Colombia at the end of your stay. Officials may also request evidence of a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you’re entering from another South American country.

You must complete the Check-Mig immigration form on the Migración Colombia website; this process was introduced during the pandemic and remains as a requirement to enter the country. It's available in English, Spanish and French, and the form must be filled out between 72 hours and one hour before departure for Colombia.

When leaving Colombia, there's a chance you may be charged an exit tax of US$35 at the airport. This tax is normally included in the cost of flight tickets, but you should confirm this when checking in for your inbound flight. 

Which countries need a visa for Colombia?

Citizens of most nations in Africa, Asia and the Middle East (plus some other countries) are not eligible for visa-free access and must apply in advance for a visitor visa to enter the country. There's a full list of countries and territories whose citizens require a visa on Colombia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. 

Applications for tourist visas should be filed online and the cost varies depending upon your nationality and the country where you are located when applying. Expect to pay around US$82 for the visa, which is usually valid for a stay of up to 180 days. Make sure you have all of your documents ready before you begin the application process online – the website times out after 30 minutes, deleting any progress you’ve made up until that point. 

Citizens of Cambodia, China, India, Macau, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam can enter Colombia visa-free for up to 90 days if they have an existing short-stay visa or residency permit issued by the USA or any Schengen Area country. This document must be valid for at least 180 days beyond the date of your arrival in Colombia.

Can I extend my Colombian tourist visa?

If you’re a citizen of a country that has visa-free access to Colombia, you can extend your stay by an additional 90 days by applying for an extension online (in Spanish) or at the offices of Migracíon Colombia (including in  Bogotá , Medellín , Cali and Cartagena ). If you have a 180-day visa, this cannot be extended, as this is already the maximum stay allowed.

The process of extending your entry stamp must be completed at least two weeks before your existing stamp expires in case of any processing delays. You will need to provide photocopies of the information page of your passport and your Colombian entry stamp, and proof of a booking for onward travel within the next 90 days to support your application.

Extending your tourist stamp allows you to spend a maximum of 180 days in total in Colombia in any 12-month period. Extending costs US$27 for most nationalities, but it’s free for citizens from a Schengen Area country. 

Visa requirements for working in Colombia

A temporary worker’s visa, known as a migrant (M) visa or M-5 is available for travelers who can prove they have a job lined up with a Colombian employer. This class of visa has a duration of up to three years, and your Colombian employer will need to provide several financial documents to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to support the process, including bank statements and proof of tax payments.

You can apply for this class of visa from abroad or while you are in the country on a tourist visit, making it easier to attend interviews with a local employer. While you can leave and enter the country on a working visa, it will expire if you leave Colombia for longer than six consecutive months.

It's not a cheap process, however. Expect to pay US$52 for the application process, and a further US$230 once it has been approved. You can apply online , although you may be required to show documents in person at your local consulate or embassy – there's a full list on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website .

If your application is successful, you’ll receive an electronic visa via email, which can be shown to border officials upon arrival and exit from Colombia. There is no legal requirement to have the visa printed in your passport unless you’re staying in Colombia for more than three months; however, it’s highly recommended that you get a copy printed at your local consulate as there’s always the possibility that passport officials may demand to see a physical copy.

This article was first published March 2022 and updated September 2023

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How Long Can You Stay In Colombia On A Tourist Visa

Published: November 7, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Sharon Lansing

• Plan Your Trip

Introduction

Colombia, known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and stunning natural landscapes, is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. Whether you’re looking to explore the ancient ruins of the Lost City, soak up the sun on the pristine Caribbean beaches, or indulge in the vibrant nightlife of Bogotá, Colombia offers a wide range of experiences for every traveler.

However, before embarking on your journey to Colombia, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the country’s visa requirements, specifically the tourist visa. Understanding the rules and regulations regarding your stay will ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip.

In this article, we will delve into the details of how long you can stay in Colombia on a tourist visa, entry requirements for obtaining a tourist visa, the possibility of extending your stay, the consequences of overstaying your visa, and other important considerations.

So, let’s dive in and explore everything you need to know about staying in Colombia on a tourist visa!

Tourist Visa for Colombia

Before you can enter Colombia as a tourist, you need to obtain a tourist visa. The tourist visa is typically issued for a maximum stay of 90 days. This visa allows you to explore the country, engage in tourism-related activities, visit friends and family, and experience the local culture.

To apply for a tourist visa, you will need to visit the Colombian consulate or embassy in your home country or check if you are eligible for an online visa. The required documents may vary depending on your nationality, but generally include a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining, a completed visa application form, proof of hotel reservation or accommodation, round-trip airline tickets, proof of sufficient funds for your stay, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you are traveling from a country at risk.

It is important to note that the tourist visa is a single-entry visa, which means that once you leave Colombia, you will need to apply for a new visa if you wish to reenter the country as a tourist.

Additionally, it is advisable to check with the consulate or embassy for any updated requirements or changes in visa regulations before applying.

Now that you understand the basics of obtaining a tourist visa for Colombia, let’s move on to the entry requirements for this visa.

Entry Requirements for a Tourist Visa

When applying for a tourist visa to enter Colombia, there are certain entry requirements that you need to meet. These requirements may vary depending on your nationality, so it is important to check with the Colombian consulate or embassy in your home country for specific details.

Generally, the entry requirements for a tourist visa include the following:

• A valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Colombia.
• Visa application form: You will need to complete a visa application form, providing accurate and up-to-date information.
• Proof of accommodation: You may be required to provide proof of hotel reservations or accommodation for the duration of your stay in Colombia.
• Proof of financial means: You will need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Colombia.
• Round-trip airline tickets: You must have a confirmed round-trip ticket showing your entry to and exit from Colombia.
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate: If you are coming from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission, you may need to show proof of vaccination.

It is important to note that the exact entry requirements may differ based on your nationality and the specific consulate or embassy where you apply. Therefore, it is essential to double-check the requirements and gather all the necessary documents before submitting your visa application.

Once you have met the entry requirements and submitted your application, the consulate or embassy will process your visa request. This process may take several days or weeks, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel dates.

With the entry requirements in mind, let’s move on to the next section and explore how long you can stay on a tourist visa in Colombia.

Length of Stay on a Tourist Visa

When entering Colombia on a tourist visa, the maximum duration of stay is typically 90 days. This 90-day period begins from the date of entry. During this time, you are allowed to explore the country, engage in tourist activities, and experience the local culture.

It’s important to note that the 90-day limit is applicable for each entry on a tourist visa. If you leave Colombia and later return on a new tourist visa, you will be granted another 90-day period of stay. However, it’s essential to adhere to the visa regulations and not exceed the maximum stay limit.

If you wish to extend your stay beyond the initial 90 days, you have a few options available. One option is to apply for a visa extension through the Colombian immigration authority known as Migración Colombia. The extension allows you to extend your stay for an additional 90 days, bringing the total maximum stay to 180 days in a calendar year. To apply for an extension, you will need to provide a valid reason for your request and fulfill the necessary requirements set by Migración Colombia.

It’s worth mentioning that the decision to grant a visa extension is at the discretion of Migración Colombia. Therefore, it is recommended to start the extension process well in advance before your initial 90-day period expires to ensure a smooth and timely extension.

It’s important to manage your stay in Colombia within the permitted time limits to avoid any complications or penalties. Overstaying your tourist visa can have serious consequences, which we will discuss in the next section.

Now that you know how long you can stay on a tourist visa in Colombia, let’s explore the process of extending your stay.

Extending Your Stay in Colombia

If you find yourself wanting to extend your stay in Colombia beyond the initial 90-day period allowed on a tourist visa, you have the option to apply for a visa extension. The process for extending your stay varies depending on your individual circumstances and the requirements set by Migración Colombia, the Colombian immigration authority.

To begin the extension process, you will need to gather the necessary documents and make an appointment with Migración Colombia. Some of the common requirements for a visa extension include:

• A completed visa extension application form.
• Valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
• Proof of financial means to support your extended stay in Colombia.
• Evidence of a valid reason for the extension, such as continued tourism, medical treatment, or other exceptional circumstances.

It’s essential to submit your application for a visa extension before your initial 90-day period expires. Failure to do so could result in penalties or even deportation from the country. Therefore, it is advisable to start the extension process well in advance to allow for any potential delays or complications.

Keep in mind that the approval of a visa extension is not guaranteed, and the decision lies with Migración Colombia. It is vital to provide accurate and complete information and meet all the requirements outlined by the immigration authority.

If your visa extension is approved, you will be granted an additional 90 days, extending your total stay in Colombia to a maximum of 180 days in a calendar year. However, it’s important to note that exceeding the maximum stay limit could have serious consequences.

With the possibility of extending your stay in mind, let’s move on to the next section and discuss the implications of overstaying your tourist visa.

Overstaying Your Tourist Visa

Overstaying your tourist visa in Colombia can have serious consequences and is not advisable. If you exceed the maximum allowed stay of 90 days on a tourist visa, you may face penalties, fines, and potential difficulties when leaving the country or attempting to reenter in the future.

When you overstay your tourist visa, you become an “illegal” resident in the eyes of Colombian immigration authorities. It’s important to understand that Migración Colombia takes visa violations seriously and may take the following actions if you overstay your visa:

• Fines: Overstaying your visa can result in hefty fines that increase the longer you remain in the country.
• Entry bans: If you overstay your tourist visa for an extended period or have a history of visa violations, you may be banned from entering Colombia for a certain period.
• Deportation: In severe cases, Migración Colombia may decide to deport you, which can lead to significant disruptions to your travel plans and potential difficulties in reentering the country.

To avoid these consequences, it is essential to plan your stay within the permitted visa limits and comply with the rules and regulations set by Colombian immigration authorities.

If you realize that your stay in Colombia will exceed the 90-day limit, it’s advisable to apply for a visa extension through Migración Colombia before your initial visa expires. By proactively addressing your situation, you can regularize your stay and avoid any legal issues.

Now that you understand the implications of overstaying your tourist visa, let’s discuss what you can do if you wish to stay in Colombia for a longer period or pursue a different visa type.

Consequences of Overstaying Your Tourist Visa

Overstaying your tourist visa in Colombia comes with a range of consequences that can have an impact on your current and future travel plans. It is important to be aware of these consequences to avoid any legal and logistical issues.

The following are some of the possible consequences of overstaying your tourist visa:

• Fines: Overstaying your visa can result in fines imposed by Migración Colombia. The amount of the fine can increase the longer you stay beyond the permitted period.
• Entry Bans: If you overstay your tourist visa for an extended period of time or have a history of visa violations, you may be subject to an entry ban, preventing you from returning to Colombia for a specific period.
• Deportation: In serious cases of visa violation, Migración Colombia has the authority to deport you from the country. Being deported not only disrupts your travel plans but can also impact your ability to enter Colombia or other countries in the future.
• Difficulties in Future Visa Applications: Overstaying your visa can negatively impact future visa applications. Immigration authorities may view previous visa violations as a red flag, potentially leading to increased scrutiny or denials of future visa requests.

It is crucial to understand that violating visa regulations can have long-term consequences and affect your travel plans and immigration status. To avoid these issues, it is always recommended to abide by the rules and regulations regarding your visa and stay within the allowed timeframe.

If you anticipate that you may need to stay in Colombia for a longer period or pursue a different visa type, it is advisable to consult with Migración Colombia or seek legal advice to explore your options. Taking proactive steps to address your situation can help you avoid any complications and ensure a smooth and legal stay in the country.

Now that you are familiar with the consequences of overstaying your tourist visa, let’s explore the possibilities of applying for a different visa type in Colombia.

Applying for a Different Visa Type

If you wish to stay in Colombia for a longer period or engage in activities beyond the scope of a tourist visa, you may need to consider applying for a different visa type that suits your specific purpose. Colombia offers various visa categories that cater to different needs and circumstances.

Some of the common visa types that you can explore include:

• Work Visa: If you have a job offer from a Colombian company or wish to start your own business in Colombia, you may need to apply for a work visa. This visa allows you to work legally in the country.
• Student Visa: If you plan to study in Colombia, a student visa is required. You must be accepted into a recognized educational institution to be eligible for this visa category.
• Investment Visa: If you plan to invest a significant amount of money in Colombia, you may be eligible for an investment visa. This visa category encourages foreign investment in various sectors of the country’s economy.
• Retirement Visa: Colombia offers a retirement visa for individuals who wish to retire in the country. To be eligible, you typically need to demonstrate a steady income stream and meet certain age requirements.
• Marriage Visa: If you are married to a Colombian citizen or have a Colombian spouse, you may be eligible for a marriage visa, which allows you to reside in Colombia.

Each visa type has its own specific requirements and application process. It is advisable to consult with the Colombian consulate or embassy in your home country or seek legal advice to understand the detailed requirements and procedures for your desired visa category.

Remember, applying for a different visa type requires careful planning and thorough documentation. It’s important to start the process well in advance to allow for any potential delays and ensure a smooth transition from your current visa status.

Now that you are aware of the possibilities of applying for a different visa type, let’s discuss the option of leaving Colombia and reentering on a tourist visa.

Leaving Colombia and Reentering on a Tourist Visa

If you have reached the maximum stay on your tourist visa or have overstayed your initial 90-day period in Colombia, leaving the country and reentering on a new tourist visa can be an option to extend your stay.

When you leave Colombia, your tourist visa becomes invalid, and you will need to apply for a new visa at a Colombian consulate or embassy in your home country or any other country you plan to visit before returning to Colombia.

Reentering on a tourist visa allows you to enjoy another 90-day stay in Colombia. However, it is crucial to remember that visa regulations should be followed, and you must not exceed the maximum stay limit in any given calendar year.

Before leaving Colombia, ensure that you have all the necessary documents for the visa application, including a valid passport, round-trip airline tickets, proof of sufficient funds for your stay, and any additional requirements specified by the consulate or embassy.

It’s important to note that the visa application process and requirements can vary depending on the country in which you are applying. It is advisable to check with the specific consulate or embassy for the most up-to-date information and to allow sufficient time for processing your visa application before your planned return date to Colombia.

Remember to plan your trips and visa applications strategically to ensure a smooth transition and avoid any issues or disruptions to your travel plans. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to maintain copies of important documents and keep a record of your travel history to facilitate the visa application process.

Now that you understand the option of leaving Colombia and reentering on a tourist visa, let’s conclude our comprehensive guide on staying in Colombia on a tourist visa.

Staying in Colombia on a tourist visa provides an incredible opportunity to explore the country’s diverse landscapes, immerse yourself in its rich culture, and create unforgettable memories. Understanding the visa regulations and requirements is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay without any legal complications.

In this article, we have discussed the process of obtaining a tourist visa for Colombia, the entry requirements, and the length of stay permitted on a tourist visa. We have also explored the option of extending your stay through a visa extension and the potential consequences of overstaying your visa.

Importantly, we have highlighted the possibility of applying for a different visa type to fulfill specific purposes such as working, studying, retiring, or investing in the country. Each visa type carries its own set of requirements and application procedures, so it is wise to consult with the Colombian consulate or seek legal advice to navigate this process successfully.

If your time on a tourist visa is coming to an end or you have exceeded the maximum stay limit, leaving Colombia and reentering on a new tourist visa can be a viable option. However, it is crucial to adhere to visa regulations, plan your trips strategically, and check the specific requirements of the consulate or embassy in your home country or in the country from which you plan to apply for a new visa.

As you navigate your stay in Colombia, remember to respect the country’s laws, customs, and cultural norms. Familiarize yourself with local customs, traditions, and safety precautions to ensure a positive and memorable experience during your time in this remarkable South American nation.

Enjoy your time in Colombia, soak in its beauty, embrace the warm hospitality of its people, and cherish the moments you spend in this captivating country!

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Colombia Tourist Visa

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Traveling to Colombia

Who needs an colombia visa, colombia tourist visa validity, a valid passport, personal photos (2), proof of subsistence, invitation document, return or onward tickets, health insurance, colombia visa application steps, colombia tourist visa interview, colombia tourist visa fees, where to apply, colombia tourist visa processing time, approved visa applications, denied visa applications, colombia visa extension, colombia tourist visa faq.

With miles of stunning coastline, a vibrant arts scene, and beautiful rainforests, Colombia is a popular tourist destination. Due to the high volume of visitors that Colombia receives each year, they are well-equipped to accommodate and welcome tourists from all over the world.

Nationals from the following countries must apply for and obtain a Colombia tourist visa before arriving in the country:

Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Armenia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, China, Comoros, Congo, Congo (Dem. Rep.), Cote d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Cuba, Djibouti, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, India, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Macao, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Moldova, Mongolia, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, North Korea, Pakistan, Palestinian Territories, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Togo, Tonga, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Uganda, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Viet Nam, Yemen, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

A Colombia tourist visa is a type of Visitor Visa (Type V) intended specifically for travelers coming to Colombia for tourism purposes. Tourist visas are valid for up to one (1) year. The authorized duration of stay is 90 days, which is extendable for another 90 days. The maximum duration of stay (number of days) is 180 days within every 365 days from the date of issuance.

This visa type does not allow for dependents of the visa holder to apply for a Beneficiary Visa. It also does not allow for any type of lucrative work in Colombia.

Colombia Tourist Visa Requirements

To apply for a Colombian tourist visa, all applicants must submit the following required documents:

The applicant should hold a passport that is valid for at least six (6) months at the time of application and contains at least two blank visa pages.

The applicant must submit two recent personal photos, taken within the last 6 months, in color against a white background. The photo size should be 3cm x 4cm. The applicant must be shown clearly facing the camera.

Applicants must show that they have the financial capacity to support themselves for the duration of their stay in Colombia. This can be done using bank statements that demonstrate a regular monthly income from the last ten (10) months.

If the applicant was invited, they must provide a letter or document proving the financial solvency of the inviting party.

Applicants must provide a photocopy of their return or onward tickets clearly stating their name and date of departure from Colombia that falls within their visa expiration date. Immigration officials may request to see the departure ticket at the port of entry in Colombia.

The policy should cover accidents, illness, maternity, disability, hospitalization, death, repatriation, and more for the duration of the visa holder’s stay in Colombia. 

Applying for a Colombian visa is a straightforward process that can be completed online. Applicants can take the following steps to submit their visa application:

Applicants can complete the Visitor Visa application for tourism purposes through the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During the application process, applicants must select the nearest Colombian Consular Office to their place of residence when prompted.

All required documents can be uploaded to the SITAC platform during the application process. Document files must be in PDF format, and photographs must be in JPG format with a maximum size of 300 kb. Documents must have been issued within three (3) months of the application date. 

After they submit the tourist visa application and upload the required documents, the applicant will receive a reference number. This number can be used to pay the study fee. The payment must be made within ten (10) days, or the application process will be terminated.

The Colombian Visa and Immigration Authority will receive the application once all information is submitted, and the study fee is paid. It usually takes five (5) business days to process a tourist visa application, but this processing time can be extended to 30 days if the Authority requests additional information/documents or an interview. 

Once the tourist visa application is approved, a second fee for the visa issuance must be paid. This fee must also be paid within ten (10) days, or the application is at risk of termination.

The relevant authorities in Colombia do have the right to conduct interviews and request additional documents if they feel the application is incomplete or they need more information. This can be conducted in person or through an appropriate means of communication. The method of communication and the location of the interview will depend on the applicant’s nationality and the nature of their application.

The Colombian tourist visa application process involves two fee payments. Fees are calculated based on the applicant’s nationality. The first, the study fee, will be paid before the application is processed by the Colombian Visa and Immigration Authority. The second is an issuance fee that must be paid after the visa application is approved. Applicants must pay the fees within ten (10) working days or forfeit their application.

Fees can be paid through one of the following options:

• PSE payment service
• GNB Sudameris BankPayment at consulates
• Payment with a valid VISA or Mastercard

All applications for Colombian Visitor Visas for tourism purposes must be completed online through the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The application will be processed by the Colombian consulate abroad, which is selected by the applicant during the application process.

The processing time for a Colombian Visitor Visa for tourism purposes will depend on the consulate the applicant selects, the applicant’s nationality, and the case's complexity. Once the study fee for the Colombian visa application is paid, applicants can expect to receive an answer within five (5) business days. If additional documentation or an interview is required, this processing duration may be extended up to 30 calendar days from the initial date of online application registration.

If the Colombian Visitor Visa application for tourism purposes is approved, the applicant has ten (10) business days to pay the issuance fee. Failure to pay this fee may result in the termination of the application. Once the issuance fee is paid, an electronic visa (eVisa) will be sent to the applicant’s email address within ten (10) days. It’s important to ensure that all information on the visa is correct and matches the applicant’s official documentation. Corrections can be made within 15 days of receiving the eVisa.   

If the visa application is denied, the applicant must wait six (6) months to submit another Visitor Visa application for tourism purposes.

It is possible to extend a Colombian tourist visa. Tourist visas are issued for an initial duration of stay of 90 days and can be extended for an additional 90 days. The number of days cannot exceed 180 days, continuous or discontinuous, within 365 days. 

The cost of a Colombian tourist visa will vary depending on the applicant’s nationality. There are two types of fees that must be paid in order for the application to be successful: the study fee and the issuance fee. Both fees must be paid within ten (10) days at their respective stages of the application process.

If you require a Colombian tourist visa, you can complete the entire application online at the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. All documents can be uploaded online and the application will be processed by the Colombian consulate nearest to your place of residence. You must select the correct consulate when you apply.

No, unfortunately, dependents of Visitor Visa (tourism purposes) holders are not eligible for a Beneficiary Visa.

Yes, you can extend your Colombian Visitor Visa for tourism purposes for up to 90 continuous or discontinuous days. The maximum number of days you can stay in Colombia on a tourist visa is 180 days within 365 days. 

Check if you need a visa for your next destination

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• June 28, 2023

How to Obtain a Colombia Visitor Visa – 2023 Update

Colombia has over 15 types of visitor visas. We provide up-to-date 2023 information on how to obtain a Colombia visitor visa (Colombia V visa). 

Colombia offers many different categories of visas, which we looked at in our guide to Colombian visas and enable you to stay in the country for a year or more. In addition, Colombia changed its visa rules in mid 2022. Most noteworthy, the new visa rules went into effect on October 21, 2022.

One of the changes with the new Colombia visa rules in 2022 was the addition of different visitors visas, such as the visa for Digital Nomads. In addition, the category change of the M student visa.

Citizens of several countries including the Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the United Kingdom and the United States do not need a visa to enter Colombia as a tourist for up to 180 days.

However, if you are a tourist from Canada, you used to have to pay an entry fee of 201,000 pesos. But this entry fee didn’t apply to Canadians over the age of 79 or younger than 14. Also, this entry fee for Canadians was eliminated on May 1, 2019.

A Colombian “tourist” visa isn’t a formal visa. It’s just a stamp in your passport. Furthermore, a “tourist” visa can be extended by 90 days at any Migración Colombia office in the country. We also have covered how to extend a tourist visa in Colombia.

Several Medellin Guru readers have asked questions about the Colombia visitor visa. So, we have this article updated for 2023 with details about the Colombian visitor visa.

Colombia Visitor Visa (V Visa) – 25 Types

The Colombia visitor visa (V visa) can be granted for 16 different activities as follows:

1. Airport Transit

Carry out direct transit in one of the airports of Colombia and destined to a third country. This is similar to one option of the previous TP-2 visa.

Visit Colombia for leisure, tourism or cultural interest purposes. This is similar to the previous TP-11 visa.

3. Business

Conduct business management, including: business negotiations, market studies, plans or procedures of direct investment and constitution of commercial society, negotiation, conclusion of contracts or commercial representation.

5. Medical Treatment

6. administrative or judicial procedures.

Carry out administrative and/or judicial proceedings before entities or authorities in Colombia. This is similar to one option of the previous TP-8 visa.

7. Crew Member or Crew Man

Enter and work in Colombian jurisdictional waters as a boat crew member or offshore platform. This is similar to one option of the previous TP-2 visa.

8. Seasonal Farm Worker

To carry out seasonal agricultural work under programs established by the government.

Participate in an event as a lecturer, exhibitor, artist, athlete, jury, contestant or logistical staff.

10. Religious

To work in a religious ministry or as a missionary of a spiritual entity duly recognized by the Colombian State.

11. Religious Student or Volunteer

To enter and remain in the country as a volunteer or student in religious training or to conduct theological studies in an institute or church organization.

12. Volunteer

Volunteer in development cooperation projects or in the promotion and protection of human rights.

13. Large Format Film or Documentary Production

Perform audiovisual production or digital content.

14. Digital Nomad

Working remotely for foreign companies from Colombia.

15. News Coverage

Perform journalistic coverage or stay temporarily as a foreign media correspondent.

16. Permanent correspondent

To work in Colombia as a permanent press correspondent for a foreign media.-

17. Technical Assistance

To provide technical assistance to a legal entity in Colombia.

18. TLC Entrepreneurs

To facilitate the mobility of entrepreneurs or business people, in application of commitments acquired by Colombia in the framework of Free Trade Agreements signed and in force with other States.

19. Unaccredited Officer

Coming as a foreign government official or foreign government trade representative, on a mission that does not imply accreditation to the Colombian government.

20. Vacation and Work

Visit Colombia under holiday-work programs agreed by Colombia with other States through treaties in force.

21. Work Practice

Perform an internship.

22. Service Provider Work or Labor

To work temporarily in Colombia under a contract to render services, work, or labor.

23. Promotion of Internationalization

For productive, innovation or research activities oriented to the adoption or adaptation of technologies that complement or develop products, processes or services that contribute to strengthen the country’s competitiveness.

24. Rentista/Rentier

For foreigners who receive a periodic and variable income from a creditable legal source.

25. Unforeseen Cases

Cases and circumstances not provided for in Resolution 5477 , on an exceptional basis and upon assessment by the Visa and Immigration Authority.

New Visa Resolution Impacts (Resolution 5477)

Has the visa process changed in colombia due to the new resolution 5477.

According to  ExpatGroup , the visa agency we partnered with, tells us that with the new resolution, the government has introduced new application requirements, in addition to the change of category of some visas, such as the M visa for rentista or annuity, which is now a visitor visa, or the R visa for parent of Colombian child, which is now an M visa.

The visa agency we partnered with has helped many foreigners obtain visas during the pandemic including  retirement visas ,  marriage visas ,  student visas ,  investment visas  and  resident visas .

How to Apply for a Colombia Visitor Visa

You can apply for a Colombia visitor visa online. In addition, you can obtain Colombian visas at Colombian consulates around the world. In the U.S., Colombia has consulates located in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Orlando, Newark, New York, San Francisco and Washington DC.

The Colombian visa process is fairly easy as it’s done online. You can apply for a Colombia visa online here . This application will require scans of all required documents in PDF files plus the photo in jpg format. In addition, a detailed guide for applying online is  found here .

Visas in Colombia are issued by the  Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores . Since the coronavirus, all visas are issued electronically, so you do not have to travel to Bogota for the stamp.

I successfully obtained three Colombian visas that I applied for my own in the past that were good for a total of five years. But the biggest challenge with doing a Colombian visa yourself is not benefiting from the experiences of a a visa agency, which has processed hundreds of visas and knows exactly what is needed for each type of visa.

Also another big benefit of using a visa agency is that they help you gather all the information and documents necessary for the visitor visa application. The cost of the service includes immigration advice, visa application, visa registration, and application for a foreigner identification card.

So, for my latest visa received in 2018, a Colombia resident visa , I used a visa agency. And I found the experience painless and now highly recommend using a visa service over doing a Colombia visa application yourself. The bottom line is with a visa agency you are less likely to run into problems and you can avoid a trip to Bogotá.

Medellin Guru Visa Service

The visa agency we partnered with has helped 1.089 Medellin Guru reader

expatgroup.co

Requirements for a colombia visitor visa.

Documents required for the Colombia visitor visa depend on the type of visitor visa.  All visitor visas require:

Medellin Guru partnered with an insurance agent to offer Colombian insurance services to foreigners including health insurance, auto insurance, homeowners’ insurance, travel insurance and life insurance.​

Assist Card

For visitor visas that are personal or with the support of a natural person must include:, letter present written communication from the applicant and/or the natural person who supports the visa application that clearly contains the following content: full identification of the applicant and the natural person who supports the request. explanation of the relationship or link existing between the foreigner and the natural person supporting the request. explanation of the activity that the foreigner intends to carry out in the national territory (details, participants, duration and location). declaration of economic responsibility for the expenses inherent to the displacement and stay of the foreigner in the national territory. bank statements accredit liquidity of the applicant and/or of the natural person who supports the request through bank statements of the 6 months prior to the request. for visitor visas requested with the support of one or more legal entities, the application must include the following requirements:, letter letter signed by the legal representative of the legal entity, which contains the following information: full identification of the legal entity indicating the nit in case of being incorporated in colombia and contact information. complete identification of the foreigner. explanation of the activity that the foreigner intends to carry out in the national territory, indicating the program to be carried out, its duration and planned agenda. explanation of the relationship or type of link with the foreigner for whom the visa is requested and of the special qualification or expertise, if any. declaration of economic responsibility for the expenses inherent to the displacement and stay of the foreigner in colombia. certificate of existence when the legal entity supporting the request is private and incorporated abroad, a certificate of existence, incorporation or constitution and legal representation or document must be provided. bank statements accredit liquidity of the legal entity through bank statements corresponding to the 6 months prior to the request. in the case of a public entity, this is not needed. other documents required for a visitor visa vary depending on the activity and include:, using a visa agency for a colombia visitor visa.

If you are in Colombia, you can use a visa agency to obtain a Colombia visitor visa. A visa agency can handle the online application and ensure you have all the required documentation, and you benefit from the visa agency experience.

Medellin Guru partnered with what we believe is the best visa agency in Medellín to offer Colombia visa services. Features of this service include:

• Online chat – get visa questions answered fast.
• Online quotes – get immediate visa quotes.
•  Bilingual team.
• Office in El Poblado in Medellín.
• Competitive price compared to other visa services.

The  Medellin Guru visa service partnership was launched in March 2019. And in 47 months , 630 visas were successfully received by clients including over 104 visitor visas .

Also, our visa service renewed 68 American passports  in Bogotá using our  passport renewal service. In addition, 57 clients extended tourist visas  using our  tourist visa extension service .

So, in total we had 755 clients of the Medellin Guru visa service in 47 months .

In addition, many more visas are in process – short, medium or longer term, depending on client needs.

We reviewed all the Colombia visa agency services in Medellín and found one agency that offers a more efficient visa service with more features and more comprehensive communications including online chat, WhatsApp, videocall, email and phone plus a low price and a convenient office in El Poblado.

Our visa partnership is an affiliate relationship (like the Amazon affiliate program). If you use our visa partner, Medellin Guru receives a small commission and you support the website.  This is at no additional cost to you . The price remains the same, whether you use a button or affiliate link on this website or not.

Furthermore, the visa agency we partnered with offers visa services anywhere in Colombia. So, if you are located in another city in Colombia you can use this service.

Getting a Colombian Cedula

After you have successfully received your Colombian Visa you have a maximum of 15 calendar days to register your visa with  Migración Colombia  to get a Cedula de Extranjeria (Colombian ID for foreigners). Or if you received your visa at a consulate, you will have 15 calendar days after you arrive in Colombia to register your visa.

Due to being photographed and fingerprinted this must be done in-person at a Migración Colombia office.

Especially relevant , it is very important to register your Colombian visa within the allowed time frame. If not, you will be liable for a big fine of up to seven times the minimum monthly salary in Colombia. The minimum salary in Colombia is $1,160,000 COP per month in 2023. So, the fine is up to 8,120,000 COP pesos in 2023.

To register your visa and apply for a cedula this must be done at one of the Migración Colombia offices. You can find Migración Colombia offices in major cities in Colombia.

• Barranquilla – Carrera 42 # 54-77, Barrio El Recreo
• Bogotá – Calle 100 #11B-27
• Cali – Avenida 3 norte # 50N-20
• Cartagena – Carrera 20 B # 29-18, Barrio pie de la Popa
• Medellín – Calle 19 #80A-40, Barrio Belén (the entrance is on the other side of the building on Calle 19A)

A complete list of the Migración Colombia offices is  found here . In addition, we have a guide to  applying for a Cedula Extranjeria in Colombia .  

Medellin Guru's Comprehensive Visa and Passport Series

The  Colombian visa changes that went into effect in mid-October 2022 were significant. So, on the Medellin Guru site, we have a comprehensive series of visa articles that are kept up-to-date and should answer most visa questions. These articles include:

• Colombia Visa Guide: Ultimate Guide How to Get a Colombian Visa
• How to Obtain a Colombian Visa with Up-to-Date Info – an overview of all the Colombian visas
• Popular Colombian Visas for Foreigners: Which Visa is the Most Popular?
• Visa Agencies: A Guide to Visa Agencies in Medellín and Colombia
• 9 Common Colombian Visa Mistakes: How to Avoid Them

We have looked in detail at the seven most popular Colombian visas used by foreigners:

• Retirement visa
• Marriage visa
• Investment visa
• Resident visa
• Student visa
• Visitor visa

Also, we have looked in detail at three additional Colombian visas, which are less popular for foreigners:

• Rentista visa (annuity visa) – for foreigners with a fixed income
• Beneficiary visa – for relatives of visa holders
• Expertise visa – for professionals

In addition, we have a guide to Colombia  tourist visas and how to extend a tourist visa . Also, we have a  guide to renewing U.S. passports in Colombia  and a  guide to obtaining a Colombian passport .

Furthermore, we provide information about  travel insurance  that meets the insurance requirement for Colombian visas. And we have a guide to how apply for a  cedula extranjeria  in Colombia and a  guide to using notaries in Medellín and Colombia . Finally, Medellin Guru has partnered with a visa agency to offer  Colombia visa services .

All of our Colombia visa articles were updated in early 2022 to ensure they are up-to-date and are being updated again in 2023. In addition, all visa articles on this website will be kept up-to-date as new details are disclosed.

The Bottom Line: Obtaining a Colombia Visitor Visa (V Visa)

Colombia’s visitor visa is relatively easy to get and there are several types of visitor visas.

One of the most common visitor visas issued to foreigners is a student visa to study Spanish at a school such as student  Elefun .

The visa agency we partnered with has helped over 104 Medellin Guru readers obtain visitor visas.  Click on the blue button below and that will take you to a page of the visa agency where you can obtain a quote and ask questions using a chat.

Visa costs in Colombia are lower than in many other Latin American countries. Additionally, the Colombian visa process is simplified with online applications and is relatively quick.

Editors note: update on February 27, 2023 with updated information regarding new visa rules.

Editors note: updated on June 28, 2023, with new images.

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20 thoughts on “How to Obtain a Colombia Visitor Visa – 2023 Update”

Hello, I have a question. Is there a way to go to a Colombian consulate in the United States and ask which visa would be most applicable to my situation? I have asked several different visa agencies but get conflicting information. Also, for a temporary work visa, do you know how long they could give this visa for? Would I only be permitted to be in the country for 180 days, or could it be up to 2 years without leaving? Thank you.

For a work visa would be for one year but can be renewed. See our article about a work visa – https://medellinguru.com/work-visa/

Also, click on this link to get to the visa agency we partnered with where you can get a visa quote – https://expatgroup.co/english/visasincolombia/ and there is a chat available online at the bottom right during business hours.

Hi Jeff, I have a question. If I am in Colombia for 179 days, leave for 1 week and then return, does that restore the migration clock and give me another 90 days because I have a new tourist visa now? Or am I only allowed to stay in Colombia 180 days in 1 year?

You are limited to 180 days in a year as a tourist – see out popular article about the tourist visa, clock only resets in a new year – https://medellinguru.com/tourist-visa/

Jeff! Tengo una pregunta. So basically, I can be on the tourist visa for 6 months, go to another country for 1 week and then return here for another 6 months on a new tourist visa? Cheers! Love your vlog.

Hello Sir I’m From India And It’s My 1st International Trip And I want to visit Colombia for 7 days will I able to get Visa and what documents I’ll required Sir Please Reply

Hello Jeff, very good information. I have a question about the Requirements, the second one says: “Photocopy of the page of your passport with the last stamp of entry or departure of Colombia is located.” but what if the visitor has never been in Colombia and they want to visit Colombia for the first time? They do not have that stamp of entry or departure of Colombia. May you please explain that specific requeriment? Thank you.

If you are applying for a visitor visa in a consulate outside of Colombia and haven’t been to Colombia before, obviously this is not needed.

It is required if you are applying for a visitor visa while in Colombia.

My return flight was on April 20, 2020 and so was the end of the second 90 day visa. I usually arrive mid-October and leave mid-April (6 months) of the year after. This year my return flight was cancelled du to the Corona virus and so was the second one purchased on may 30 th and I’m still in Colombia since. Could your agency get me any kind of visa extension to be legal ? Do I need one ?? As of September there’s no guaranty Ill get a flight right away back to Canada.

Now first can I return to Colombia as usual in October 2020 ?? Also can I just stay here and get some kind of humanitarian extension till mid-October and back to normal ?? Could I go (If possible) Just go to Ecuador for example and enter again in October 2020. I’m really at lost ! As a Canadian, can that be possible ??

I’m listening to any positive suggestion from your experienced part. Can the agency be of any help ?

PS: Real happy that I have discovered your site. We can count on it to get accurate info. Thank you so much!

Tourist visa extensions are still not available on the Migracion website and Migracion offices are closed. You can contact the visa agency we partnered with if you want more details by clicking on this link – https://expatgroup.co/english/visasincolombia/ and there is a chat at the bottom right where you can ask questions during business hours and sometimes after hours.

On March 11 my 90 day tourist permit expired despite the fact that I had sent at least 4 of the on-line forms to them prior to the lockdown. I have retained all of the correspondence sent by me and an email saying all business would be conducted through my email address. Nothing. I went by Feb 4 and was told to do the process on line. I sent my lawyer by the offices on March 5 and they would not speak to her about my situation. I could go on. Now I have a humanitarian flight on June 11 and no extension of my tourist visa permit to show at the airport. When do you expect the Migracion office will open? Any advice on how to simplify the issue when I get to the airport? Thanks

No word on when Migracion office will open. You likely won’t be penalized for overstaying a tourist visa during the quarantine – see our guide to visa process changes due to the quarantine – https://medellinguru.com/colombian-visa-process-changes/

We recommend getting to the airport early. We have heard the lines can be long for getting into the airport and checking in for humanitarian flights.

When will the Colombia Migracion offices reopen?

Jeff, thank you so much for your recommendation. Your blog is very informative, and you’re done a really good job with all the posts about the new visa regulations, whenever you need to renew your visa, please contact me at Cali Capital.

Thanks this is very helpful information.

Great info, but as I am in the process of applying for a visa for myself and my family as beneficiaries, I would like to let you all know that it is no longer possible to directly apply in person in Bogota. All requests have to be filed online, and only if your personal presence is required in Bogota, you will receive a formal invitation by email to present yourself for an interview.

Thanks, the article is updated.

Thank you very good information

Thanks for the useful information and keeping your visa posts up to date. Every other site I have seen has out of date Colombia visa information.

Excellent work, Jeff. Very useful info. Thanks for posting.

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Colombia visa: Requirements and application procedure

Updated: July 2, 2021

Colombia visa requirements are simple and easy to understand. Colombia has a liberal visa policy offering visa exemption to most nationalities. Colombia offers eVisa to those who require a visa.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN THIS ARTICLE You will learn everything about Colombia visa requirements, application procedure, documentation required, visa fee, payment methods, application status and entry/exit formalities at the airport. 

Colombia eVisa is available to many nationalities. The entire application process is online and a printable eVisa is issued. The only issue being the visa fee is quite steep and it needs to be paid in two payments. 

On the other hand, nationals from Cambodia, China, India, Macao, Myanmar, Nicaragua, Thailand and Vietnam holding a valid US or Schengen visa do not require a separate visa for Colombia.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Visa exempt nationalities, visa required nationalities.

• Visa EXEMPT with US or Schengen visa

Minimum passport validity required to enter Colombia

• Application procedure
• Documentation required

Methods of payment

• Processing time
• Application status
• eVisa approval
• eVisa validity

Pre-approved visa from the consulate

• Entering Colombia
• Exiting Colombia

COLOMBIA VISA REQUIREMENTS BY NATIONALITY

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months at the time of entering Colombia

• Maximum stay allowed 90 days each entry
• Can be extended for an additional 90 days online
• Maximum stay allowed 180 days in a calendar year
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bonaire (Dutch territory)
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Brunei Darussalam
• Czech Republic
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Liechtenstein
• Marshall Islands
• North Macedonia
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Sint Maarten
• Solomon Islands
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States of America
• Vatican City
• Afghanistan
• Anguilla (British territory)
• Bermuda (British territory)
• Burkina Faso
• Cayman Island (British territory)
• Central African Republic
• Congo (Democratic Republic of)
• Congo (Republic of)
• Cote d’Ivoire
• Equatorial Guinea
• Faroe Islands (Danish territory)
• French Guiana (French territory)
• Greenland (Danish territory)
• Guadeloupe (French territory)
• Guinea-Bissau
• Martinique (French territory)
• North Korea
• Saint Martin (French territory)
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• South Sudan
• Timor-Leste
• Turkmenistan
• Turks and Caicos (British territory)

Visa EXEMPT with a valid visa from the US or Schengen

• Only following nationalities are eligible for visa exemption
• Only C-Type or D-Type Schengen visas are permitted
• All US visas are permitted, except C1 (transit)
• US or Schengen visa must be valid for at least 180 days from the day of arrival

RELATED: Besides Colombia, you can also travel to 48 countries VISA-FREE with a US visa

COLOMBIA VISA APPLICATION PROCESS

The visa category for tourists and visitors is Type-V.

Check if you need a Type-V visa to travel to Colombia from the list of visa EXEMPT or REQUIRED nationalities above. Alternatively, check if you need a visa at the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Colombia tourist visa must be applied online. An eVisa is issued and sent to your email. You must print and present this eVisa at the first port of entry in Colombia. If you prefer a sticker visa, you can obtain one from your nearest consulate after your online application is approved.

Colombia eVisa

Evisa application procedure.

Start your Colombia visa application on SITAC (Sistema Integral de Trámites al Ciudadano) website. 

Colombia Ministry of Foreign Affairs has made a nice step-by-step guide on how to fill the online application. Refer to this guide if you need help filling the application. Unfortunately, this guide is only in Spanish.

At the end of your eVisa application submission, a registration code is displayed. This registration code is also emailed to you for records. You must retain this registration code. It’s required for your eVisa fee payment, application status tracking and inquiries. 

After your eVisa is approved, you will receive an electronic visa to your email. You will have to print this and present it on your arrival in Colombia. 

If you prefer to get a visa sticker in your passport, you can pay your eVisa fee at your nearest Colombian consulate and receive a visa sticker at no additional cost. 

Documentation Required

The following documentation is required

• Digital passport photo (JPG)
• Passport data/ID page (PDF)
• Passport pages with previous Colombian visa/stamps (if you have traveled to Colombia previously) (PDF)
• Visa or residence permit (if living in a country other than the country of your passport) (PDF)
• Round trip flight tickets
• Hotel bookings
• Bank statements for the last 3 months

Combine all additional documentation into one single PDF.

Colombia eVisa fee must be paid in two payments. 

• First payment: $52 USD
• Second payment: $82 USD

First payment: First visa fee payment of $52 USD must be made after submitting your Colombia visa application. This fee is for “visa study”, which means to process your visa application.

Second payment: The second visa fee payment of $82 USD must be made after your visa is approved. This fee is for “visa issuance”, which means to receive your eVisa. 

Though the eVisa fee is quite steep, you will only lose the first payment ($52) if your visa is denied. 

There are 3 ways to pay your Colombia eVisa fee 

• Pay with a credit card (Visa or Master card only)
• Pay at any Colombian consulate
• Pay in Bogota

1. Pay with a credit card: Paying with a credit card is a new feature that was introduced recently. It’s not streamlined with the eVisa application process yet. Therefore, you must select the option to pay (a) at a consulate or (b) in Bogota while submitting your eVisa application. Otherwise, you cannot submit your eVisa application. 

After you submit your eVisa application, you can make your first eVisa fee payment with a credit card on the payment portal , which is a separate website altogether.

Colombia Ministry of Foreign Affairs has made a nice step-by-step guide on how to use the credit card payment portal. Refer to this guide if you need any help. Unfortunately, the portal and this guide are only in Spanish. 

It’s fine to pay the eVisa fee with a credit card even though you have selected the option to pay (a) at a consulate or (b) in Bogota as your payment options in your eVisa application. Hopefully, they will add CC payment as an option to the visa application itself in the future to avoid confusion. But for now, you will have to make the visa fee payment on the payment portal.

A service charge of 2,200 COP will be charged in addition to the eVisa fee. 

2. Pay at any Colombian consulate: You can pay the eVisa fee at any Colombian consulate anywhere in the world. If there is one near you, that’s good. If not, you can have a friend or family member pay on your behalf if they have a Colombian consulate near them.

NOTE If you go to the consulate to pay your first eVisa fee, you can request the consul to process your visa immediately. In most cases, you can pay the second eVisa fee and pick up your visa sticker affixed in your passport.

3. Pay in Bogota: You can pay the eVisa fee in Bogota. For this, you must have a local Colombian bank account or have a local Colombian friend/agent help you pay the fee. This option is particularly not useful unless you have a local Colombian friend/agent who can help you.

IMPORTANT You are required to pay the first and second eVisa fees using the same method. For example, if you pay your first eVisa fee with a credit card, then you must pay your second eVisa fee also with a credit card. Similarly, If you make your first eVisa payment at a certain Colombia consulate, then you must make your second eVisa payment at the same Colombian consulate.

eVisa Processing Time

The current visa processing time is 5 business days. 

If additional documentation or an interview is required, then it can take up to 30 calendar days.

eVisa Application Status

While your visa application is being processed, you will receive a few emails notifying the current status of your application. Alternatively, you can check your visa status online on the SITAC website .

Below are various statuses and their meaning.

Approved: This status indicates that your visa is approved. You have to make the second visa fee payment in order to receive your approved eVisa to your email.

Required: This status indicates that the Colombian consulate requires additional information or documentation. The procedure to provide additional information or documentation will be in the email.

Rejected: This status indicates that your visa is denied. You can reapply after 6 months of waiting period.

Inadmissible: Similar to the above “rejected” status but you are eligible to reapply immediately.

eVisa Approval

After your eVisa is approved, you will be notified to make your second eVisa fee payment. Once the payment is made, you will receive an electronic visa to your email. You will have to print this and present it on your arrival in Colombia. 

If you prefer to get a visa sticker in your passport, you can visit your nearest Colombian consulate and receive a visa sticker at no additional cost. 

eVisa Validity

Colombia tourist visa (Type-V) is usually issued for 6 months and multiple-entry. There were instances where visas were issued for 3 months to 2 years depending on your itinerary. You can stay up to 180 days in each visit.

The procedure for a pre-approved visa from the consulate is the same as eVisa, except the fact that you would need to visit your nearest consulate to pay the visa issuance fee (second eVisa payment) and have the visa sticker affixed in your passport. 

ENTERING AND LEAVING COLOMBIA BY AIR

Entering colombia by air.

At your first port of entry in Colombia, you will pass through immigration and customs.

If holding an eVisa, make sure you present a print of your eVisa to the officer.

You will be asked about your purpose of travel and the number of days you plan to stay in Colombia. Your passport will be marked with an entry stamped.

The number of days you are allowed to stay may not always be marked on your entry stamp. It is assumed that you can stay up to 90 days. In doubt, ask to make sure you can stay 90 days.

As always, carry a copy of your return ticket and accommodation booking. If you are traveling on a one-way ticket, make sure to have proof of onward ticket .

Leaving Colombia by air

On exit, you will go pass through the passport control. Your entry stamp will be verified and a new exit stamp will be issued in your passport.

You will not be asked any questions while exiting the country unless you overstayed your visa. Just account for some additional time for the exit process.

Colombia visa requirements are simple and easy to understand. Most nationalities are exempt from visas. Colombian visa application process is online and an eVisa is issued. Passport holders from a few countries with a valid visa from the US or Schengen can enter Colombia without a visa. 

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

06. Get your zero-fee ATM card

You can manage money internationally in over 70 currencies using  Wise . With a Wise card, you can store and withdraw cash in 40 currencies with zero ATM fees. 

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Colombian Visa: Your Complete Guide

Looking to get a visa for colombia here's everything you need to know. from visa types and requirements to the application process, we cover it all. whether you're visiting for tourism, work, or study, this guide will help you navigate the colombian visa system smoothly..

Quick Glance:

Learn about the visa requirements for traveling to Colombia, including different visa types and the application process. Obtain a tourist, business, work, or student visa through a streamlined online application and payment process. Ensure a smooth application by applying in advance, preparing accurate documents, and respecting visa conditions while in Colombia. If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring the vibrant culture, lush landscapes, and rich history of Colombia, you might be wondering about the visa process to enter this beautiful country. Whether it’s the bustling streets of Bogotá or the inviting beaches of Cartagena that are calling your name, understanding the visa requirements is the first step in your journey. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you navigate through the process of obtaining a visa for Colombia.

Types of Colombian Visas

Colombia offers different types of visas to suit various travel purposes, such as tourism, business, work, or study. Most travelers from countries like the United States, Canada, and many European nations don’t need a visa for short visits (usually up to 90 days). However, if you plan to stay longer or if your country isn’t on the visa-exempt list, you’ll need to apply for the appropriate visa.

The most common visas include:

• Tourist Visa (Type V): Ideal for visitors who wish to travel or attend events in Colombia.
• Business Visa (Type M): For those engaging in business negotiations, market research, or other business-related activities.
• Work Visa (Type M): Necessary for individuals who will be employed or providing services in Colombia.
• Student Visa (Type M/V): Designed for international students enrolled in educational institutions in Colombia.

Application Process

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The visa application process for Colombia has become quite streamlined, thanks to online platforms. It usually involves the following steps:

• Identification: Determine which type of visa fits your travel purpose.
• Documentation: Gather all required documents, such as passports, photos, and any supporting letters or invitations.
• Online Application: Fill out the application form on the official website of the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• Interview: In some cases, you may need to attend an interview at the nearest Colombian consulate.
• Fee Payment: Pay the visa application fee, which varies depending on the type of visa and your nationality.
• Processing: Wait for your visa to be processed, which can take a few days to a few weeks.

Visa Duration and Conditions

The duration of your visa will depend on its category. Some tourist visas may be granted for up to 180 days per year, while other visa types may extend for a year or more. Remember that holding a visa doesn’t automatically give you the right to enter Colombia; immigration officers at the port of entry will make the final decision based on the presented documents and adherence to Colombian laws.

Tips for a Smooth Application

To ensure a smooth visa application process, consider these tips:

• Apply well in advance of your intended travel date to allow for any delays.
• Make sure all your documents are up-to-date and translated into Spanish if necessary.
• Double-check the accuracy of your application to avoid any potential issues.

After Arrival

Once in Colombia, it’s important to respect the conditions of your visa. Overstaying or violating visa terms could lead to fines or deportation. If you need to extend your stay, you can apply for an extension at a local immigration office in Colombia.

Getting Help and Additional Information

The visa process can seem daunting, but there’s plenty of help available. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or contact the nearest Colombian consulate.

Navigating the world of visas doesn’t have to be complicated. By following this guide and doing your due diligence, you can embark on your Colombian adventure with confidence and peace of mind. So pack your bags, brush up on your Spanish, and get ready to immerse yourself in all the wonders that Colombia has to offer.

Well, there you have it! The ins and outs of securing a visa for Colombia in a nutshell. Now you can confidently plan your adventure without any visa-related headaches. But wait, there’s more! If you want to dive even deeper into the visa process or explore other exciting travel destinations, head over to visaverge.com for all the juicy details. Happy travels, amigos! 🌎✈️

FAQ’s to know:

FAQ 1: What are the different types of Colombian visas?

Colombia offers various types of visas to accommodate different travel purposes, including tourism, business, work, and study. The most common visa types include Tourist Visa (Type V), Business Visa (Type M), Work Visa (Type M), and Student Visa (Type M/V).

FAQ 2: What is the process for obtaining a visa for Colombia?

The visa application process for Colombia is straightforward and can be done online. The steps typically involve identifying the appropriate visa type, gathering the required documents, filling out the application form online, attending an interview if necessary, paying the visa fee, and waiting for the visa to be processed.

FAQ 3: How long is a Colombian visa valid for?

The duration of a Colombian visa depends on its category. Tourist visas can be granted for up to 180 days per year, while other visa types may allow for a year or more. It’s important to note that holding a visa doesn’t guarantee entry into Colombia. The final decision lies with the immigration officers at the port of entry, who consider the presented documents and adherence to Colombian laws.

What did you learn? Answer below to know:

• True or False: Travelers from the United States, Canada, and many European nations usually don’t need a visa to visit Colombia for up to 90 days.
• Which type of visa is suitable for international students enrolled in educational institutions in Colombia? a) Tourist Visa (Type V) b) Business Visa (Type M) c) Work Visa (Type M) d) Student Visa (Type M/V)
• What should travelers do to ensure a smooth visa application process? a) Apply well in advance of the intended travel date b) Keep all documents up-to-date and translated into Spanish if necessary c) Double-check the accuracy of the application d) All of the above

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The good news is that most people DO NOT need a "TOURIST VISA " to enter Colombia.

If you’re from the USA, Canada, Europe, or Australia etc., you will receive a PIP-5 Entry Permit stamp in your passport when you pass through immigration. This "Entry Permit"  stamp is your permission to stay in Colombia for 90 days. At the end of this period, you can extend the entry permit for another 90 days for a total of 180 days (see the extension process in the next section Colombian Tourist Permit Extension ).

So who does need a Tourist Visa?

If you are from one of the countries listed below you MUST apply for a Visa prior to arriving in Colombia.

Afghanistan Albania Algeria Angola Armenia Azerbaijan Bahrain Bangladesh Benin Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Cape Verde Central African Republic Chad Comoros Congo Cuba Democratic Republic of Congo Djibouti East Timor Egypt Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Ethiopia Gabon Gambia Georgia Ghana Guinea Guinea-Bissau Haiti India Iran Iraq Ivory Coast Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Korea Republic Dem. Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Democratic Republic Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Macao Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Maldives Mali Mauricio Mauritania Moldova Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Oman Pakistan Palestine People's Republic of China Qatar Rwanda Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Somalia Sri Lanka Sudan Swaziland Syria Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkmenistan Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates Uzbekistan Vanuatu Vietnam Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

Need advice?   Since the law changes frequently and we are not experts we recommend you consult your closest Colombian Embassy or Consulate or a local immigration lawyer for advice. 

How long can you stay in Colombia?

With a  PIP-5 Entry Permit  you can stay in Colombia  a maximum of 180 days in a calendar year .

You are given 90 days stamped in your passport when you enter the country. When those 90 days are due to expire you can extend another 90 days.  Note: Once you have extended a tourist permit once, you cannot extend a second time.

Confused as to how it works? The following examples should give some clarity. Example 1 If you arrive in Colombia on January 1st and stay for 90 days, you can extend your stay for an additional 90 days, from April to June, for a total of 180 days. Once you've reached 180 days in the calendar year, you'll need to leave the country and wait until the following January to be allowed to enter on another tourist permit.

Example 2: If you arrive in Colombia on December 1st and use your first 90 days allowance, you can then extend your stay for an additional 90 days, taking you up to the end of May. Since you cannot extend a tourist permit a second time, you'll need to leave the country at this point. However, since you've only stayed 150 days in the current calendar year, you're entitled to another 30 days. You can take a quick "vacation" to another country, such as Panama or Ecuador, and upon your return to Colombia, you'll be given the remainder of your allowance.

Example 3: If you want to stay in Colombia for the maximum amount of time possible, you can do so by carefully planning your trip. For example, you can arrive in July, use your first 90 days allowance, and then extend your stay until December. At this point, you'll have reached 180 days, so you'll need to leave the country. After a quick "Christmas vacation," you can return to Colombia in a new calendar year, which means a fresh stamp and another 180 days. This allows you to stay in Colombia for a total of 360 continuous days, with a mini break in the middle.

What if you overstay your Tourist Permit?

When your 180 days are up, you have to leave Colombia or face a fine. The fine is calculated arbitrarily and could range from one half to 7x the minimum monthly salary of the average Colombian. In other words between 580,000 COP and 8.1 million COP .

Whilst overstaying your visa was always considered no big deal in the past, recent examples would seem to indicate that Migracion Colombia are taking a harder stance on this issue. Overstaying your tourist permit may result in deportation, affect your ability to return to Colombia or negatively impact your request for a more formal visa (eg permanent residency) in the future. As per all things the situation can, and will change, frequently, always double check with Migracion Colombia.

When your 90 day Tourist Entry Permit (PIP-5)  expires, you'll need to renew your entry permit with Migracion Colombia (the renewal is called PTP-5 Permiso de Ingreso y Permanencia ).

Extending a Tourist Permit should technically be a painless process since you can now extend your tourist permit online. 

If you have problems completing the extension online here are the steps to do it manually.

• Make an appointment online. Some people have reported that the English version doesn't work so if that's the case don't give up, just switch the language.
• Go to Migración Colombia, in Belen.
• If you didn't get to complete the online form fill out the form that Migration Colombia give you and wait for your name to be called
• After they have checked your form cross the road to the visa agency located in front of Migracion Colombia and take two copies of the completed form and two copies of both your passport details page and entry visa page.
• Return to Migracion Colombia.
• You can pay the extension fee by credit card. If you don’t have access to a card, you can also deposit money into their bank account (which is not walkable from Migracion Colombia), they will give you the necessary details to pay.

We recommend you dress nicely, smile, and don’t lose your patience. Remember, they have your extension fate in their hands and visa issues are always up to the discretion of the officer working. If you don’t speak Spanish, there is generally someone in the office who speaks English who can help you - it’s best to at least make some effort though.

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• Colombia Visa
• Colombia Tourist Visa

What is Colombia Tourist Visa?

How to apply, eligibility, documents required, photo specifications, processing time, after submission, check visa status, when you have the visa, colombia tourist visa - definitive guide.

One of the fascinating countries for tourism in South America is Colombia. The Gold Museum, the Rosario Islands, leisure activities like Bird watching, Whale watching, or the famous Medillin Marathon, all of these can be explored on a Colombia tourist visa .

At the time of travelling to any country, you will need a permit to be able to enter the nation. Even for tourism, there are certain formalities that you need to take care of while planning a tour to any country. The most important and mandatory one is the issuance of a tourist visa. Without one, you will not be able to enter Colombia. This falls under the higher category of Visitor (V) visa. With this visa, you can tour the country, visit your family and friends in the country, be a part of an exhibition or a concert and others. It is an electronic visa or E-visa which is processed and received online. The validity offered by this visa is of 90 days. It may be extended as per the requirement.

Prior to the application process for a tourist visa to Colombia, you must go through the eligibility criteria for the same. You must check if your purpose matches the requirements put forth by the Colombia Immigration. The process for the application is mainly online. It involves various sub-procedures before finally obtaining the E-visa. The procedure is listed as follows:

• Visit the official website of the Embassy of Colombia and select the visa section.
• Fill out the application form for Columbia tourist visa as per the guidelines.
• Select the visa category as tourist and attach scanned copies of the required documents.
• Submit the form online to the embassy.
• Pay the Acknowledgement fees as per the request of the Columbia Immigration.
• Wait for the documents to get verified and approved.
• Next step is to attend the interview for final verification.

When you are filling the application form, you must make sure to provide the correct and accurate information as per the documents that you have attached and the details on your passport. If in case any false or incorrect unverifiable information is provided, there are chances that the visa application may become inadmissible or get rejected. Such a visa rejection will affect your future applications for any visa to Colombia or any other country. Therefore, before applying, you must make sure that you know how to fill the form and what information is appropriate for what section.

There are certain parameters and criteria that must be met before carrying on with the application process. The parameters will help you understand the requirements of the visa and the process involved. Some of the pointers are given as follows:

• You must possess proof of purpose of visit
• If you are visiting your acquaintances, you must have an invitation letter from the resident in Colombia.
• You must visit for tourism only, or visiting acquaintances and not searching for or taking up any kind of employment.
• You must meet the health requirements
• You must be healthy enough to travel to Colombia.
• You must perform a medical test before travelling to the country and provide a relevant documentary proof.
• You must be within the age limit to be able to apply for a work permit.
• You must meet the character requirements
• You must be of good character and have genuine intentions behind working in Colombia.
• You need to provide a relevant documentary proof for the same as well (if asked) in the form of a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC).
• You must have sufficient funds
• You must possess or have access to sufficient funds to be able to cover your stay and other expenses in Colombia.
• Bank statement or any equivalent document is to be submitted as well as proof of the same.

There are different kinds of documents required as per the purpose of the visit. Mainly, there is a list of common documents that are needed in the process anyway. The Colombia tourist visa requirements are given as follows: 

• An original passport valid for at least 6 months ahead of the date of travel.
• Visa application form, completely filled
• Coloured photographs as per the photo specifications
• A cover letter with all the required details
• Confirmed flight tickets
• Proof of accommodation - invitation letter, hotel reservation, etc.
• Proof of sufficient funds - bank statement or any other equivalent document.
• Income Tax Returns proof
• Proof of identification and nationality - PAN card, Adhaar card
• Letter of recommendation from the organisation where the applicant is working.
• Letter of invitation (if applicable)
• Copy of valid older visas (if any) - USA, UK, Schengen, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Chile.

Note: The documents like bank statements, ITR, invitation letter, and other official documents must be translated into Spanish by certified translators and should have an apostille sticker as well if instructed by the Columbia Immigration, Bogota or the Embassy of Columbia, New Delhi.  

• Two copies must be provided
• Photo size: 1.5 inches x 2.5 inches.
• Coloured copy must be provided.
• The face must cover about 60-70% of the frame. 
• Head should well-centred.
• The picture must not be older than 6 months.
• The background must be white
• Neutral expressions
• Glasses are not permitted.
• Headgears are not allowed except for religious reasons.
• Clothing shouldn’t match the background.

The processing time required for the issuance of a Colombia tourist visa is about 4 to 5 business days. However, this time span will differ as there are certainly other factors that affect the processing time. If you consider the time needed for the visa from the date of online registration which will include the time needed for the interview and the approval of the documents, the period can go up to 30 calendar days.

The fee for a tourist visa to Colombia is paid in two instalments. First, an acknowledgement fee is paid at the time when you are applying online by filling out the application form. The second instalment is paid after the documents have been approved and you have an appointment with the embassy for an interview. The total cost will vary depending on the type of visa.

After the completion of the application process,

• You can wait for the approval of the documents and the application form.
• An interview will then be conducted before the final verification. 
• The interview is conducted at the Embassy of Columbia, New Delhi. 
• After the interview, the rest of the processing is done and the E-visa will be processed by the Columbia Immigration and sent to the registered email ID of the applicant. 
• Only the approved applications will be later processed to finally obtain the E-visa.
• If there are any other requirements to be fulfilled or if there are any mistakes in the application, the embassy or the agency must be informed.
• If there are any changes related to the application, for instance, change in marital status or birth of a child, you must inform the embassy/agency.
• You can even check the status of the application and the processing in the meantime. 
• If there is a change of plans, you can withdraw the application.
• The visa fee is generally not refundable.

The processes may take time and you will feel an urge to check the status. To do so, you can visit the website of the Embassy of Colombia with the details of your application and check the status . The process is not quite complicated as the Colombia tourist visa is an E-visa. The status is presented in different levels.

After the completion of the process, the visa will be sent to you on your registered email ID. Even after getting a valid permit, you will still have to follow certain formalities and a protocol. After the issuance of the visa, you must be careful about your actions as there are chances that with bad conduct, the visa may get cancelled. There are rules and regulations that are to be followed as well. Some of the pointers are listed as follows:

• Before you travel
• Make a note of the visa expiry date, as well as the number of entries permitted. You must not stay in the country beyond this period.
• You should travel to Colombia within the validity of your visa.
• Make sure to carry a copy of your passport and other travel documents while you are in the country.
• Issue health insurance and travel Insurance from a certified company.
• At the Border
• Get your documents checked and your passport verified.
• Obtain the entry stamp on your passport.
• Consult the airport authorities for any kind of assistance required.
• Check your visa copy for other guidelines and rules to be followed.
• When you enter Colombia
• Ensure not to get involved in any kind of employment. You can, however, do volunteer work.
• The tourist prohibited areas must be stayed out of.
• Make sure you don’t overstay and apply for a visa extension in time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i extend my colombia tourist visa.

Before going ahead with the extension of the visa, you must have a valid reason for the visa extension . The process to extend your visa is online. You will have to apply online to the Columbia Immigration department. Fill out the form and upload the scanned copies of the required documents. The processing of the application will take time, meanwhile, you will receive an email from the authority that will contain a confirmation number and a password so that you can check the status of the process. It will take about 1 business day to get the extension. You must also take note that you can apply for the extension at least 2 to 3 days prior to the expiration date.

After Expiring My Colombia Tourist Visa How Long Can I Stay?

You are not allowed to stay in Colombia once your visa has expired. If you had to stay, you can apply for an extension at least 2 days prior to expiration. There are consequences if you stay longer than the validity of the visa.

What is the Medical Test for Colombia Tourist Visa?

A medical test is carried out in order to make sure that the candidate is fit to be in Colombia and does not have any contagious diseases. However, this medical test is not necessarily carried out for the tourist visa as it is a short-stay visa and the process is mainly mandated for long-term visas like a resident permit or work visa. There is no specialised medical test for the tourist type.

Can I Convert My Colombia Tourist Visa into Work Visa?

No, you are not allowed to convert a tourist visa to work visa. If you require a work visa, you need to apply for the same differently. However, when you get a work visa within the validity of your existing tourist visa, the existing visa will get cancelled once you get the work visa.

How Much Bank Balance Required for to Get Colombia Tourist Visa?

About the bank balance, there isn’t a specific amount that is to be reflected in your bank account as per any instructions provided by the Embassy of Columbia. There are certain requirements but they generally differ depending on the type of the visa and the duration of the stay. The amount must be sufficient to cover your stay in the country.

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Colombia Visa

This guide will teach you everything you need to know about Colombian Visas and the application process.

Your Complete Guide To Colombia Visas

Are you planning a trip to the stunning country of Colombia or considering making this diverse and popular nation your new home? Navigating the intricacies of visas and entry requirements can be daunting, but don't worry! We’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about Colombia visa requirements in 2024. Get ready to embark on a smooth and hassle-free journey to our beautiful Latin American gem!

Colombia offers a variety of visa options to accommodate your travel needs, whether you’re visiting as a tourist or planning to live and work in the country. The visa application process can be initiated online or at $73 to $300, depending on the type of visa. Remember, to apply for a visa you’ll also need a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining and, in some cases, proof of funds and resources to afford your trip.So let’s dive into the specifics of each visa type and the application process!

Do You Need A Visa To Enter Colombia? 

Holders of the following passports are exempt from needing a short stay visa in colombia and they can stay in colombia up to 180 days per calendar year..

Albania Andorra Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Barbados Belgium Belize Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Brazil Brunei-Darussalam Bulgaria Canada Chile Costa Rica Croatia Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador El Salvador Estonia Fiji Finland France Georgia Germany

Greece Grenada Guatemala Guyana Holy See Honduras Hungary Iceland Indonesia Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Kazakhstan Korea (Republic of) Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Marshall Islands Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Montenegro Morocco Netherlands New Zealand North Macedonia Norway Oman Palau

Panama Papa New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Qatar Romania Russia (Federation of) Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Serbia Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Spain Suriname Sweden Switzerland Trinidad and Tobago Turkey Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland United States of America Uruguay Venezuela

Others:  Hong Kong – SAR Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China ‍ Sovereign Military Order of Malta

Individuals with passports from these countries AND a US Green Card or Schengen Visa valid for at least 6 months do not need a visa to enter Colombia.

Cambodia India Nicaragua Myanmar People's Republic of China Thailand Taiwan Vietnam It is important to note that there are many website online that state you are eligible to enter Colombia simply by having a Green card. This information is only accurate if you have a passport from one of the countries listed above. If you do not hold a passport form one of the countries listed above you will need a visa to enter Colombia.

Citation: Cancilleria's Website

Special Case Exemptions

1. Nicaraguans who prove they are natives of the Autonomous Region of the North Caribbean Coast and the Autonomous Region of the South Caribbean Coast will be exempt from a short-stay visa if they hold a valid residence permit in a Member State of the “Schengen Area” or in the United States of America; or if they are holders of a Schengen visa or a visa from the United States of America with a minimum validity of one hundred and eighty (180) days at the time of entry into the national territory. ‍ 2. Third-country nationals who are Permanent Residents in member states of the PACIFIC ALLIANCE will be exempt from a short-stay visa, provided that said activities do not generate payments for services, wages or salary in Colombia. 3. Non-EU permanent residents in countries of the ANDEAN COMMUNITY, based on reciprocity and in application of the Andean Migration Statute, will be exempt from a short-stay visa. 4. Nationals of those States with which Colombia signs agreements on visa exemption, under the terms of the respective international instrument.

Types of Visas in Colombia

Colombia has three types of visas. Visitor (Type V) visas, Migrant (Type M) Visas, and Resident (Type R) visas. Each visa type has it's own characteristics.

Visitor Visa

For short or temporary stays in the country.

Migrant Visa

For foreigners intending to live in Colombia for more than a few years.

Resident Visa

For individuals who have held a Migrant visa for at least a few years.

Colombian Visitor Visas

Colombian visitor visas are typically for foreign citizens who wish to visit Colombia for short periods of time. These visas are typically granted for up to 2 years, while most are granted for 180 days or less. To apply for the visa, individuals must prove they are eligible to pay for the trip, describe their plans in the country, and sometimes complete an interview at the nearest embassy.

Common Types of Visitor Visas

There are many different types of visitor's visas. We will help you choose the right fit for you that gives you the best chance of success in obtaining a visa.

Tourist Visa

The tourist visa is for those who wish you visit Colombia for a vacation or short stay.

Student Visa

For foreign students attending an accredited institution in Colombia.

Annuity/Rentista Visa

For individuals with income from overseas investments.

Event or Convention Visa

For participants in special events or conferences in Colombia.

Crew Member Visa

Designed for members of international flight or maritime crews.

Digital Nomad Visa

For individuals who want to work remotely from Colombia.

Religious Visa

Granted to religious workers and missionaries.

Medical Treatment

Granted to those seeking medical treatment or procedures in Colombia.

Transit Visa

Allows travelers to pass through Colombian airports without entering the country.

Business Visa

Allows foreigners to engage in business activities within Colombia.

Explore More Colombian Visitor Visas

Colombian Visitor Visa Requirements

These are the basic requirements to apply fora Colombian Tourist Visa, however the Foreign affairs ministry may ask for additional documentation.

Contact Us Today and Get Approved

We will help you every step of the way, so you can focus on the enjoying everything Colombia has to offer.

Colombian Migrant Visas

Migrant Visas are great for foreign citizens seeking temporary residency in Colombia, with various categories available to accommodate different needs. To requirements for a migrant visa typically include something permanent keeping you in Colombia, like a marriage, a child, work, or retirement.

Types of Colombian Migrant Visas

Colombian marriage visa.

Otherwise known as a spouse or pernament partner visa , this visa is for individuals who are married to a Colombian National. Individuals who are in a civil partnership are eligible for the visa one year after registering.

Colombian Parent Visa

The Colombian parent visa is for individuals with a Colombian child. In order to qualify for the visa the applicants name will need to be on the child's birth certificate.

Colombian Work Visa

The work visa is designed for those with full time employment with a Colombian company. You'll need to secure employment from a Colombian company prior to applying and the employer will need to meet certain requirements.

Colombian Real Estate Investment Visa

The real estate investment visa is for foreigners who make a significant investment into real estate in Colombia. The foreigner will need to invest $406.000.000 COP or 350 times the Colombian minimum wage and legalize their investment with the central bank.

Colombian Business Visa

The business visa is for foreigners who invest in a Colombian company or a company they start in Colombia. The foreigner will need to invest at least 116.000.000 COP or 100x the Colombian minimum wage and legalize their investment with the central bank.

Colombian Resident Visa

Colombian Resident visas are for foreigners who have held a Colombian Migrant visa for a specific time frame which varies depending on the type of migrant visa. ‍ It is important to note that prior to October of 2022, foreigners could apply for a resident visa after investing a significant amount in Colombian real estate. The laws have since changed and foriegners will need to hold a migrant visa first.

Specific Requirements to apply for a Colombian Resident Visa

These are the specific requirements to apply for a Colombian Resident Visa however you may be required to submit additional documentation.

How to Apply For a Visa in Colombia

The online application process for a Colombia visa in 2023 can be initiated through the official Cancillera website. Each visa type is different with different requirements and processes, so it is important to be prepared prior to applying.

Obtain the Proper Documents

Prior to applying for the visa application you will want to gather all the necessary documents for your visa application. As documents vary by visa type, you'll want to consult the Cancilleria's website prior to applying or contact Colombian Visa Services to learn more.

Apply Online

All applications are now online through the Cancilleria's website. It is important to make sure you select the correct visa type and follow the directions exactly or you may be faced with delays or a visa denial. If you have not applied for a visa in Colombia before it is recommended to work with a professional. The Colombian government entity has 30 days to respond to your application.

Pay Application Fees

The Colombian government will charge a "study" fee to review your application. The study fee for the application is around $50 USD and your application will not be reviewed until you pay. Additionally, there will be an additional fee once your visa has been approved that can vary by visa type. These fees can range from $50 to $400 USD.

Respond to Follow Ups

The government entity will typically send you an email with requests for additional information or items that need to be corrected. You will want to respond to these requests as quickly as possible. Requests can include additional documentation, resubmission of documents, and more.

Recieve Your Visa

Once your visa is accepted you will get an email to pay your fee. Once you have paid your fee, you will recieve your electronic visa in the form of a PDF document to your email. You will not know how long the visa has been granted for until you receive the visa. Once you have your visa, if you are eligible, you can begin the process of obtaining your cedula de extranjeria.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about what you need to obtain a Colombian Visa and how we can help.

Who needs a visa to enter Colombia?

The following countries need a visa to enter Colombia: Algeria, Armenia, Bahrain, Benin, Belarus, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cape Verde, Cameroon, Chad, Comoros, Congo, Ivory Coast, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Equatorial, Haiti, India, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Kiribati, Kosovo, Kuwait, Lesotho, Macedonia, Madagascar, Malaysia, Malawi, Maldives, Mali, Morocco, Mauritius, Mauritania, Moldova, Mongolia, Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, Nicaragua, Niger, Oman, Central African Republic, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Swaziland, Thailand, Tanzania, Tajikistan, East Timor, Togo, Tonga, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vietnam, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Do I need a Visa to Enter Colombia if I have a US Green Card?

Yes, in most cases an individual will need a visa to enter Colombia even if they have a US Green Card. However, if you are a member of one of the following countries you can enter Colombia without a visa if you have a US Green Card: Cambodia, India, Nicaragua, Myanmar, People's Republic of China, Thailand, Taiwan, and Vietnam.

Do I need a Visa to Travel Through the Airport? 

Yes, if you normally need a visa to enter Colombia, you will need to obtain a Transit Visa to travel through the airport. This is the case even if you are not leaving the airport.

Who does not need a visa for Colombia?

Individuals from more than 100 countries can stay in Colombia for up to 180 days per year without needing a visa.

Is There an E-Visa in Colombia?

Yes, all visas in Colombia are now electronic visas or E-visas. There is no need to go to Bogota or a consulate to get your passport physically stamped.

How Long Does It Take To Obtain A in Colombia?

The government entity in Colombia has 30 days to respond to your visa application. While the time can be shorter, we recommend applying for the visa at least 30-60 days prior to your trip.

What Does The Colombian Visa Cost?

The Colombian Visa cost can vary by the visa and visa sub type you are applying for. However, most visas have around a $50 USD study fee. For the tourist visa, the government entity will charge $82 after your visa has been approved.

What is the Easiest Visa To Obtain In Colombia?

The easiest visa to obtain in Colombia is the visa that you fit all of the requirements for. Typically if you are just wanting to visit Colombia, the Colombian Tourist Visa (Type V) is the easiest visa to obtain.

Your Partners

Daniela Cordoba is a lawyer specializing in immigration and commercial law. Daniela Cordoba has helped individuals and businesses live and operate in Colombia for over a decade. She also has training in compliance with the respective accreditations to serve as Compliance Officer.

Mike co-founded Colombian Visa Services after moving to Colombia from the United States and finding the process of obtaining a visa difficult and frustrating. Daniela helped make the process so simple and stress-free that he partnered with her to provide the to help others.

For the past decade we have been helping travelers secure visas to Colombia.

We work with you 1:1 to ensure you not only have the best chance of getting approval, but that you have every one of your questions answers.

You don't have to worry about having to translate emails or communication, our team is fluent in English and can help you with whatever you need.

Need Help Getting a Colombian Visa?

Contact us:.

Email: [email protected]

Phone USA: +1 (786) 933-9647

Phone Colombia: +57 (310) 791-6848

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Colombia Visa Requirements: How to Apply, Costs, Policy, Visa Types [2022]

Tired of conflicting information, government bureaucracy, and changing residency and visa requirements?

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PERMANENT visas

TEMPORARY VISAS

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6 Quick Tips To Prepare For A Move To Colombia

TIP 1. Understand Colombia's visa policy-  A decade of experience living abroad taught me that a country's resident visa and permit situation can make or break a plan to move overseas. Chat with a   Colombian visa attorney .

TIP  2. Know your health insurance requirements-  Starting July 2022, the government requires all expats living in Colombia to   purchase specific medical coverage  that includes accidents, illness, hospitalization, disability, repatriation, maternity, and death. 

TIP  3.  Save On Moving Costs -  International moves can get expensive. Save hundreds of dollars by getting accredited moving companies to compete for your business. Fill out a quick form, sit back and let our moving partners get you five free moving quotes from trusted and reliable international moving companies.

TIP  4. Set up a Traveling Mailbox-  Change all your critical mailing addresses to a traveling mailbox. Don't lose an important tax return, bank statement, credit card, or government document in the  ma il.  Sign up for a virtual mailbox , and you can keep a permanent US mailing address and check your mail via your phone or PC.

TIP   5.  Prove your onward ticket-  I f you only have a tourist visa Colombia  requires a mandatory departure ticket . You need a onward travel with a date leaving the country before your visa expires. Save money by using    an onward plane ticket for just $16 . 

TIP 6.   Pick up some Spanish Skills-  The most common difficulty experienced by expats in Colombia is English being less common than expected. Only 4% of the country speaks English. You can get a  free 7-day Spanish language crash course  to make your move to Colombia easier.

What are the updated travel requirements for foreigners entering Colombia in 2022?

As of May 1, 2022, the Colombian government's Ministry of Immigration (Migración Colombia) eased all nationalities' domestic and international travel restrictions. Entry rules no longer require COVID-19 vaccination administration. 

Foreign nationals who are not residents of Colombia can now enter the country via one of the international airports without proof of vaccination with only a negative pre-travel COVID-19 test. However, all cruise ship passengers entering Colombia, regardless of citizenship, must still be fully vaccinated AND show proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken 72 hours before arrival.

Regardless of vaccination status, all foreigners must complete the Check-Mig online form  at least 24 hours before arrival in Colombia. I recommend carrying both a hard copy and digital version of the form ready on your phone for Colombian authorities to check. In addition, foreigners must submit a contact tracing form online before departing Colombia.  Lastly, you must wear a facemask on entry until leaving the airport.

Entry Requirements For Fully Vaccinated Foreigners Entering Colombia

• Show a valid vaccination certificate with a final vaccination dated 14 days prior to arrival.
• The vaccine certificate must show your full name as printed on your passport, the date of vaccination, the vaccine type, and the number of doses administered.
• The certificate can be paper or digital.
• The Colombian Health Ministry only accepts vaccines authorized by the World Health Organization or officially recognized by the country where you were vaccinated. You can check for eligible vaccines on the Colombian Health Ministry website .
• Additionally, vaccinated foreigners must fill out the "Check-Mig" requirement below.
• Proof you have an airline ticket departing the country

 INSIDER TIP  : Definition of Fully Vaccinated- Fully vaccinated foreigners entering Colombia before 14 days after their final dose or partially vaccinated foreigners who have not completed the COVID-19 vaccine series must follow the same entry requirements as unvaccinated foreigners entering Colombia. Travelers under the age of 18 are exempt from the above travel requirements.

Entry Restrictions For Unvaccinated Foreigners Entering Colombia

• Starting May 1, 2022, partially vaccinated or unvaccinated nonresident foreigners over 18 years old can now enter Colombia.
• The current entry requirement is proof of a pre-travel negative COVID-19 PCR test taken 72 hours before departure.
• A negative antigen test taken 48 hours before departure is also accepted.
• Be prepared to show either paper or digital proof of the COVID-19 test result.
• Additionally, unvaccinated foreigners must fill out the "Check-Mig" requirement below.

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Colombian Immigration Check MIG Online Form

Do i need to fill out the check-mig form online if i am vaccinated.

Yes, all foreigners entering Colombia must enter their contact details into the Migracion Colombia Health Declaration form online, known as Check-MIG, regardless of vaccination status. 

Do I still need to use the Colombian Check-Mig Form if I have a permanent residency visa?

Yes, all foreigners must complete the Check-MIG form. The Check MIG form is a travel authorization document,  not a Colombian visa .

Due to the pandemic, the Government of Colombia implemented this online form as a new entry requirement to track all foreign nationals entering and leaving Colombia. Every non-Colombian citizen must complete a form at least 24 hours before entry into Colombia and no more than one hour prior to departure.

How long is a Check MIG form valid?

A Check-MIG form is valid for 30 days from the approval date. However, each issued form is good for a single use. You must complete a new Check-Mig each time you enter and exit Colombia. 

Visa Policies For Entering Colombia  Image Source

Foreigners Visa Holders Require Colombian Health Insurance

Starting July 2022, partly in response to the pandemic, the government now requires all foreigner visa applicants to  purchase medical insurance  specifically covering accidents, illness, hospitalization, disability, repatriation, death, and in the case of female expats, maternity coverage.

The mandatory health insurance minimum coverage depends on your visa type:

• Visitor Visas $35,000 USD
• Migrant Visas $60,000 to $70,000 USD
• Resident Visas $100,000 USD

Medical coverage must be for the entire duration of the expat's visa.

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OVERVIEW: Visas In Colombia

Colombia has a very accessible visa policy . You may not even need a visa application form to enter Colombia, depending on your citizenship. Foreign nationals can stay in Colombia with a simple tourist visa for up to 180 days in a  CALANDER YEAR . Note the bold letters around calendar year, as this visa policy differs from many countries that use 360 days as the duration.

The Ministry of Immigration revamped the Colombian visa policy in 2017. There are now new visa requirements, classifications, and regulations. Colombia offers more than 30 different types of visas available, each with a different purpose, duration, and eligibility. 

Use this guide to simplify your research on the visa process and clarify the visa rules for foreigners who want to stay in Colombia.

Colombian Visa Policy For Different Nationalities

There are different requirements for a Colombian visa, depending on the applicant's nationality. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs grants foreign citizens from 107 different countries visa-free entry into Colombia for stays up to 90 days. Most of these foreign nationals can then be extended their visa for an additional 90 days, allowing many foreigners to stay in Colombia for 180 days in a calendar year.

Countries That Can Enter Colombia Visa-Free

List of countries allowed to enter colombia visa-free [click to expand], countries with special entry privileges.

Foreign citizens of certain countries have a special waiver and do not need to obtain a Colombian tourist Visa for stays up to 90 days. However, these citizens must have a residence permit or visa issued by the United States or a Schengen visa valid at least 180 days from their arrival date in Colombia.

• Macau (180 days)

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Countries That Require A Colombian Visa To Enter

However, Colombia requires a visitor visa for citizens of the 89 countries not on the visa-free or special entry lists above (primarily from Africa and the Middle East).

COUNTRIES REQUIRING A VISA TO Enter COLOMBIA [Click to Expand]

 INSIDER TIP  : Colombian Visa Policy For Dual Citizenship-   A foreign national with Colombian dual citizenship must enter and leave Colombia using their Colombian passport and Cedula (Colombian Identification Card). Migración Colombia will not stop you from entering the country on a foreign passport. However, immigration authorities will stamp your foreign passport with an exit requirement to show your Colombian travel documents before leaving the country.

Colombia Electronic Visa System

The Colombia immigration website has an evisa system where foreigners can apply for a new visa or extend their current visa. There have been past issues with the system not accepting foreign credit cards for visa payments and requiring in-person visa applications. Since then, Migracion Colombia has worked most bugs out of the system. You should be able to apply for and renew a Colombian tourist visa online and save on the number of visits to the immigration office. 

• Evisa Application Website
• Electronic Visa Extension Website

Some Visas that need to be affixed to a blank passport page can get approved online but will still need a trip to Migracion Colombia or your local consulate to complete the application process.

What are the different types of visas for Colombia?

Colombian Visas come in three visa categories. The (M) Migrant Visa and (R) Resident Visa are long-term types of visas, where R is a permanent residence permit, while the M has a visa validity of up to 3-years. The (V) Visitor Visa is for short-term or temporary visits to the country.

Type M Migrant Colombian Visas

The Colombia Migrant (M) has 11 different types of visas. This class of visa allows foreigners to live long-term in Colombia for 1 - 3 years, depending on the type of visa.

For most expats, the common uses of the Migrant (M) are:

M-11 Rentista Visa

The Rentista (previously known as a TP-7) or Annuity Visa is a long-term visa ideal for financially independent expats who can meet the minimum monthly passive income requirements. The income must be passive, generated outside of Colombia, and not earned through active employment. Investment income, dividends, interest, and rental property are valid, but salary or commission is ineligible.

M-11 Pensioner or Retirement Visa

Similar to the Rentista Visa above, the Colombia Retirement Visa (previously known as a TP-7) is a long-term visa ideal for foreign retirees with social security or pension income. The difference between the Rentista and Retirement Visa is the significantly lower income requirements  for the Retirement Visa and documented proof of retirement pension or social security income required.

M-10 Real Estate Investment Visa

Colombia has two different classifications of Real Estate Investment Visas. The M-10 is a temporary residency visa valid for up to 3-years with a minimum property investment requirement of 350 X Colombian minimum monthly salary.

M-1 Spousal Visa

Foreign nationals whose spouses are Colombian citizens can qualify for the Colombian Marriage Visa (formerly the TP-10), valid for up to 3-years. While the M-1 is dubbed a marriage visa, Colombia recognizes civil unions, including same-sex civil partnerships.

M-6 Business Investment Visa

Foreign investors who prefer to purchase or start a business in Colombia rather than buy real estate can choose the Colombian Business Investment Visas. The M-6 has lower financial requirements than the M-10. A business owner with an investment worth 100 X Colombian minimum salary qualifies for a 3-year visa.

Other Kinds of Colombian Migrant Visas (M)

• M-3 Mercosur Agreement (formerly TP-15) -  For citizens of other Mercosur member countries (Southern Common Market), including Bolivia and Chile. 
• M-4 Refugee (TP-9) - For foreigners with designated refugee status to live, work, and study in Colombia.
• M-5 Work Visa (TP-4)- Allows working expats sponsored by a Colombian company to work in Colombia legally.
• M-7 Expertise Visa (TP-13)- Commonly referred to as the Colombian Digital Nomads Visa , the M-7 targets self-employed foreigners practicing a specific licensed or certified profession. Freelancers looking to work remotely in Colombia frequently apply under the Expertise Visa.
• M-8 Religious (TP-5) - For church founders and other missionary activities on behalf of a religion or church officially recognized by Colombian immigration.
• M-9 Student (TP-9) - For international students enrolled in an accredited degree program at a public or private university. Not to be confused with an Education Visitor Visa (V), commonly used by expats living in Colombia taking Spanish language classes.

 INSIDER TIP  : Legally Working In Colombia- The Religious, Student, Real Estate, and Retirement Visas above DO NOT allow you to work in Colombia. The Spousal, Mercosur, Refugee, Business Owner, Freelancer, and Work Visa authorize you to work in Colombia under specific conditions. Spousal, Mercosur, Refugee- allow foreigners freedom to seek any legal employment in Colombia. Business Owner- can only work in the company that you invested in Expertise- Only allows you to work in the industry and job function your visa was granted for. Work- only allowed to work in a precise position at the specific company sponsoring your visa.

What to learn the best and cheapest way to legally stay in Colombia? Tired of conflicting information and endless researching on the visa requirements?

Colombia offers more than 30 different types of visas available, each with a different purpose, duration, and eligibility. Don't navigate the complexities alone- My Colombian legal partners have decades of experience helping expats

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Type R Resident - Colombian Permanent Residence Visas

Returning Colombian National

For former natural-born citizens Colombian citizens who want to reacquire the Colombian citizenship after renouncing to be naturalized in a foreign country, 

Parent of Colombian Citizen

You are eligible for a permanent resident visa if your child is Colombian. This R visa extends to biological, foster, and adopted parents.

2-Year Migrant to Permanent Conversion

Foreigners with temporary M-1 (Marriage) and M-3 (Mercosur) Migrant M visas are eligible for a permanent Resident R visa after two straight years living in Colombia. 

5-Year Migrant to Permanent Conversion

All other Migrant visa holders (M - 4 to M-11) who have lived in Colombia uninterrupted for 5-years can apply for a permanent Resident R visa. 

Beneficiary Visa

If you hold a Colombia Resident R visa, your spouse and children up to 25 years old also get full residency. 

Permanent Investor Visa

Similar to the Business Owner or Real Estate Investment M visas above, However while Colombia Residency Visas have similar names and functions as their Migrant counterparts, there are some key differences.

Visa Duration-  Migrant visas have a set expiration date with a maximum of 3-years. Resident visas allow for Permanent Residency in Colombia and do not expire.

Visa Validity:  Migrant visas become invalid if you are outside the country for six consecutive months or more. Resident visas only lose their validity if you leave Colombia for more than two years.

Financial Requirements:  The Resident Business Owner and Real Estate Investment Resident visas have much higher financial requirements than the Migrant versions, equal to 650 X the minimum monthly wage in Colombia.

Colombia Citizenship-  only Colombia residency visa holders are eligible for Colombian citizenship after 5-years.

Type V Colombian Visitor Visa

The Type V Visitor visa allows short-term stays in Colombia, usually for a maximum of 90 days. However, some Visitor Visas categories, such as a Student Visa (6-months to one year) or Contract Worker Visa (two years), can be valid for extended periods.

While casually referred to as the Colombian Tourist Visa, the Type V has 15 different categories ranging from leisure and tourism to participating in an educational program or seeking medical treatment. 

For expats, the most commonly used Colombian Visitor Visas are below. 

Tourist Visa (Previously referred to as TP 11)

For foreign citizens from 107 countries , the Colombia Tourist Visa is not a formal Colombian visa. Instead, immigration authorities place a "visa stamp" on your passport when you enter the country visa-free or visa on arrival.

However, citizens of countries ineligible for a Colombian visa exemption need to apply for a proper Tourist Visa at the Colombian Consulate General or Embassy in their country of residence.

Foreigners cannot work, operate a business, or move to Colombia permanently on a Tourist Visa. 

A  Tourist Stamp  on your passport acts as a Tourist Visa if you enter Visa on Arrival

Student Visa

Used for primary, secondary, or university classes at an accredited institution or education program. You can use this temporary visa to take Spanish Language classes.

Business Visa

For employees of foreign companies looking to hold client meetings, negotiate deals, or conduct business meetings.

Medical Treatment Visa

Used by foreigners for Medical Tourism. The Medical Visa allows you to enter Colombia for health consultations or medical treatment. 

Contract Worker Visa

For foreign workers contracted by a Colombian company for temporary, occasional, or short-term technical assistance, allowing them to apply for and receive a work visa for that specific contract for up to 2-years.

Working Holiday Visa

Special visa only available for 18 - 30 year old citizens from France, Colombia, Peru, Chile or Mexico allowing foreigners to work, study, and live in Colombia for up to one year.

Colombian Visa Minimum Financial Requirements Updated 2022

Colombian visas- validity, duration, and extensions, how long is a colombian visa valid.

A Colombian tourist visa or passport stamp is valid for a maximum stay of 180 days per calendar year if you enter Colombia visa-free or visa on arrival. After the initial 90-days visa validity, you can extend a tourist visa for an additional 90-days once you are in the country. 

On January 1 of the following year, you are eligible to live in Colombia for another 180 days. 

However, Colombian visa policy places a hard limit on foreign nationals of 180 consecutive days in the country without a formal Colombian visa. A new calendar year does not reset the 180-day consecutive limit. You will need to leave Colombia for a visa run for at least 24 hours. A fresh 180-day visa duration starts again when you re-enter the country. 

How to legally stay in Colombia for a year without a proper Colombian visa? XXX

 INSIDER TIP  :   Transit Days -  The 180-day limit encompasses all the days you spend in Colombia, including travel days when you enter and exit the country. Don't think you get 181 days because you depart the country after 180 days. Your arrival and departure days are included in the 180-day limit, even if you arrive at 12:01 AM.

How do I extend a Colombian Visa?

For citizens of a visa-free country with a tourist permit, visa on arrival, or tourist stamp, their "tourist visa" can be  extended online at the Colombia immigration website  (Migracion Colombia).

A tourist visa extension no longer requires an in-person trip to a Migracion Colombia office unless the Migracion Colombia website is down or you have problems paying for the visa extension online. 

Extending your visa is relatively straightforward--you need to gather the required documents, including a departure airline ticket, and submit PDF copies online. The website comes in both English and Spanish, though I could not get the English version to load correctly. 

You can use this guide to help you extend your visa online xxx. 

Tourist permit extensions should be applied for at least two weeks before the existing entry stamp expires. Don't procrastinate or wait until the last minute, or you may need to spend additional money on a visa run. 

 INSIDER TIP  :   Visa On Arrival Extension -   Online visa extensions only apply to tourist permits from foreign citizens who entered visa-free and received a tourist visa stamp on their passport. Other types of visas (Retirement, Investment, Student, etc.) have specific procedures for extension or renewal.

Colombian Visa Requirements

The complete requirements for a Colombian visa application vary depending on the relevant visa (Resident, Migrant, or Visitor) and a class of visa (work, investment, retirement, marriage).

However, the minimum requirements for most types of visa include:

What documents do I need to apply for a formal tourist visa at a Colombian Embassy?

If you are from India, Pakistan, or any other country ineligible for a Colombian visa exemption, you can apply for a temporary visitor's visa using the  Colombia evisa system  (SITAC Sistema Integral de Trámites al Ciudadano) or at the Colombian Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence.

You need to submit the following documents to apply for a temporary visitor's visa:

• A valid passport with an expiration date at least six months from your intended departure date from Colombia
• Photocopy or electronic onward flight ticket proving your departure date from Colombia
•  Photocopy of the passport data page
• Photocopy of the passport stamp showing your last date of arrival and departure from Colombia
• Photocopy of any previously held visas for Colombia
• Duly accomplished DP-FO-67 visa application form filled out and signed
•  Three (3) passport-type photograph on a plain white background, 3 cm X 3 cm. 
• Digital passport photos in JPEG format with a file size no larger than 300 kb to submit for online application.
• Proof of sufficient financial capability- 6 months of your most recent bank statements 
• Letter of purpose describing what you plan to do in Colombia
• Documents certifying your intended purpose and activity
• Proof of Relationship- Visiting family or friends
• Proof of Enrollment or Admission - Student Visa
• Program and Planned Agenda- Event or Convention Visa
• Company Registration- Business Visa
• Letter of Economic Responsibility - A commitment letter pledging financial support of the visa applicant

Proof of Private Health Insurance

You must maintain health insurance coverage for your entire stay in Colombia. If you are issued a Migrant or Resident visa, you are eligible for Colombian public medical coverage (EPS) from insurance providers like SURA, Comfenalco, or Coomeva. Tourists and Visitor visa holders can purchase a private plan from a recommended global health insurance company.

Colombian Visa Application, Process, and Costs

How do i apply for a colombian visa.

There are three ways to apply for a Colombian visa. The easiest is using the tourist visa-on-arrival privilege available to citizens of the US and 107 countries. If you need to apply for a different visa, the Colombian immigration website's e-visa system is your next best option.  

Additionally, you can make an appointment at your Colombian Consulate General or Embassy to apply.

Does a visa allow me to get health insurance in Colombia?

A valid visa is the first step to getting Colombian medical insurance . After obtaining your visa, apply for a cédula de extranjería (Foreigner ID Card ) at the closest Migración Colombia office. With your cedula, you are eligible to apply for  EPS insurance (Colombia's universal healthcare plan).

The great news is Colombia has an excellent healthcare system . 

Did You Know Most Expats In Colombia Need 3 Types of Health Insurance?

Starting in July 2022, the government passed a law requiring specific medical coverage for foreigners staying in Colombia. Click the button below to ensure you are legally staying in Colombia.

What is the processing time for a Colombian visa?

The average time for government officials to process your visa application is two weeks if all your documents are in order and there are no missing requirements. However, A visa processing time can vary up to 30 days if your Embassy and immigration office has an application backlog. 

How much does a Colombian visa cost?

Colombian visa costs depend on the type of visa application. Technically the cheapest visa is the "visa on arrival." This free "tourist visa stamp" is available to citizens of the United States and 107 visa-free countries.

For any other type of visa or for foreign citizens not from a visa-free country, Colombian visas have two fees: Visa Study Fee and Visa Processing Fee. 

STUDY FEES : A non-refundable visa cost to research and analyze your visa application. 

VISA PROCESSING FEE:  You are only charged this one-time processing fee if your visa application is approved. This fee includes a $45 USD stamp tax.

Chart of COLOMBIAN Visa COST AND Fees [Click to Expand]

• Temporary Work Visa  includes All temporary contract work, including intern, trainee,  volunteer,  artist, audiovisual and digital production, ship crew, and journalist
• Visa costs are accurate from this article's publish date. Latest  visa prices can be found here .

 INSIDER TIP  : Currency Conversion-  While the visa fee amounts above are in USD or EUR, visa applicants pay all fees in Colombian pesos (COP) at the average exchange rate fixed every four (4) months by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Euro rate is used when applying in the European Union or Cuba; The US dollar rate is for visa applications in Colombia and the rest of the world.

Exemptions to Standard Colombian Visa Costs

How can i save money on colombian visa processing fees.

Citizens of Ecuador, Japan, and South Korea are exempt from paying processing fees for any type of visa. Foreign nationals from these countries only need to pay the study fee for the visa application. 

The visa processing fee exemption also extends to Peruvian citizens settling in the Amazon of Putumayo river basins. 

Additionally, the visa processing fee is free for Bolivian citizens pursuing an academic training program.  

How can I get a FREE Colombian Visa?

The government of Colombia allows citizens of Spain to apply for and receive any qualified Colombian visa free of charge. 

Additionally, visitor visas are free for authorized boat crew from fishing boats from the areas surrounding San Andrés, Providencia, and Santa Catalina.

How do I pay for my Colombian visa application fees?

You have 5 payment methods for your visa fees:

• Local bank transfer using  Pagos Seguros en Línea  (PSE)
• Online using a  Mastercard or Visa credit card
• In-person at a  Colombian Embassy or Consulate-General
• In cash at Banco GNB Sudameris
• Using a Servibanca ATM in Colombia.

Government of Colombia Immigration Offices

You can find Migración Colombia offices in all larger cities. I gathered and sorted the Immigration Office addresses in the major cities for you below.

COLOMBIAN EMBASSY AND CONSULATE GENERALS WORLDWIDE

Check the drop-downs below to find the Colombia Embassy and Consulate General in your country.

North America

South america, middle east, faqs: visas for colombia, can i work with a colombia tourist visa.

Foreigners cannot legally work in Colombia on a Tourist Visa. Even digital nomads without a proper visa remotely working for clients outside of Colombia are technically working illegally. However, contract workers on a Temporary Worker Visa (Type V) are allowed to work in Colombia for up to 2-years. 

What are the Colombian visa requirements for US citizens?

Colombian visa requirements for United States citizens vary depending on the relevant visa. However, Americans entering Colombia for short-term stays can enter the country visa-free. US citizens are eligible for a tourist passport stamp granting a visa exemption for stays in Colombia up to 90-days.

Who needs a visa to enter Colombia?

Citizens of 107 countries, including the USA, Canada, and the UK, do not need a visa to enter Colombia for short-term stays of less than 90-days. However, citizens of 89 other visa-required countries, including India and Pakistan, must apply for a visitor's visa before entering the country.

However, citizens of Cambodia, China, India, Macau, Myanmar, Thailand, or Vietnam, who also hold a US or Schengen zone visa, are eligible for a special visa allowing them to enter Colombia visa on arrival for up to 90-days.

Can I qualify for Colombian citizenship and passport?

Colombia citizenship is straightforward and takes between 5-10 years to earn. Expats must live in Colombia for five years on a permanent resident visa (Type R) to qualify for Colombian citizenship. Colombia has Investment Visas that can grant immediate permanent residency.

Otherwise, a temporary M visa (Migrant) can be converted to a permanent visa in 2 - 5 years, depending on the type of visa.

Additionally, Colombia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs allows for dual citizenship and does not require you to renounce your current nationality.

Ranked the 41st most strong passport in the world, 131 countries allow Colombian passport holders visa-free privileges.

Can I apply for a Colombia e-visa?

Maybe. Not all Colombian visa types are available through the  electronic visa system  (SITAC). Consular services may mandate in-person submission of your visa application and any required documents at a Colombian Embassy or Consulate, depending on your citizenship and relevant visa.

Contact the  Colombia Consulate in your country of residence to get their specific requirements. 

About the author

Hi, That's me.  I'm Marco Sison . I am a survivor of the corporate rat race. I started Nomad FIRE to show you an alternative to the stress and grind of 70-hour weeks to pay off a mortgage, student loans, and countless bills. After getting laid off in 2015, I said screw it all and retired early at 41 years old. I have traveled the last five years to over 40 countries to show you the best ways to  save, invest , and  live in amazing countries  for 70% less cost than the US. I have been featured in:  US News & World Reports, Huffington Post, MSN Money, USA Today, ABC Network, Yahoo Finance, Best Life, CW Network, Dr. Wealth, and others.  [view press...]

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Travel Advisory January 2, 2024

Colombia - level 3: reconsider travel.

Reissued with updates to the country summary.

Reconsider travel due to  crime  and  terrorism . Exercise increased caution due to civil unrest  and  kidnapping . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to:

• Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments due to crime and terrorism.
• The Colombia-Venezuela border region due to crime, kidnapping, and risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela from Colombia.  

Country Summary: Violent crime, such as homicide, assault, and armed robbery, is widespread. Organized criminal activities, such as extortion, robbery, and kidnapping, are common in some areas.

Terrorist groups and criminal organizations continue operating and carrying out attacks in Colombia. They may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, police stations, military facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, airports, other public areas, and U.S. government facilities.

Demonstrations occur regularly throughout the country and can be about a variety of political or economic issues. They can shutdown roads and highways, often without prior notice or estimated reopening timelines. Demonstrations and road closures may significantly reduce access to public transportation and may disrupt travel within and between cities. Protests can become violent and can result in fatalities and injuries.

U.S. direct-hire government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

• They are not permitted to travel by road between most cities.
• Colombia’s land border areas are off-limits to U.S. government personnel unless specifically authorized.
• They may not use motorcycles.
• They may not hail street taxis or use public buses.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Colombia.

If you decide to travel to Colombia:

• Avoid protest areas and crowds.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Keep a low profile.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Colombia.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Arauca, Cauca, and Norte de Santander Departments – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Violent crime, including armed robbery and homicide, is widespread. Terrorist groups are active in some parts.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens as U.S. government-personnel travel to these areas is severely restricted due to security concerns.

Colombia - Venezuela Border – Level 4: Do Not Travel

U.S. citizens are advised not to travel to the border of Colombia and Venezuela. U.S. citizens are at risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela.

The Colombia-Venezuela border is not clearly marked, and U.S. citizens should not go near the border due to the risk of crossing into Venezuela accidentally.

U.S. citizens attempting to enter Venezuela without a visa have been charged with terrorism and other serious crimes and detained for long periods. For more information, see the Venezuela Travel Advisory.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid at the time of entry and for the duration of stay.

One page required for entry stamp unless enrolled in Migración Automática, a program for frequent travelers.

Not required for stays 90 days or less.

Yellow fever vaccination is required for travelers coming from certain countries or visiting certain national parks.

10,000 USD maximum.

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Bogota

Physical Address:  Calle 24 Bis No. 48-50, Bogotá, D.C., Colombia Mailing address:  Carrera 45 No. 24B-27, Bogotá, D.C. 110111, Colombia Telephone:  +(57) (601) 275-2000 Emergency after-hours telephone:  +(57) (601) 275-2000 and press 0 Email:  [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency Barranquilla Calle 77B No. 57-141, Suite 511 Centro Empresarial Las Americas 1, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia Telephone:  +(57) 605-353-2001 and +(57) 605-369-0149 Emergency after-hours telephone:  +(57) (601) 275-4021 Email:  [email protected]

For hours and services, please visit the  U.S. Embassy Bogota website . 

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s website www.state.gov for information on U.S. - Colombia relations.  

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Travelers must complete Migración Colombia’s Online Check-Mig Form  within 72 hours of boarding an inbound or outbound flight from Colombia. There is no fee to complete the form.

All U.S. citizens who do not also hold Colombian citizenship must present a valid U.S. passport to enter and leave Colombia. U.S. citizens do not need a Colombian visa for a tourist or business stay of 90 days or less, or for cumulative stays of 180 days or less per calendar year. Before your 90-day stay expires, you may request an extension of up to 90 additional days from the Colombian immigration authority ( Migración Colombia ). You will face a fine if you remain in Colombia longer than allowed, and you may not be able to leave Colombia until the fine is paid. 

Any traveler entering with a Colombian visa of any type (as opposed to visa-free entry described above) with more than three months’ validity must register the visa at a Migración Colombia office or online within 15 days of arrival in Colombia or face fines. You may be denied entry to Colombia if you do not have a return ticket. Visit the  Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism  website for the most current visa information.

Visit the  CDC Traveler View  website for vaccination information, and the  Colombian Ministry of Health  website for Yellow Fever vaccination requirements.

Special Entry/Exit Instructions for U.S. Citizens Born in Colombia:  All Colombian citizens—regardless of dual citizenship—MUST present a valid, non-expired Colombian passport to enter and exit Colombia. Colombian citizens traveling with non-Colombian passports may be unable to depart the country until they obtain a Colombian passport. 

Be aware that any person born in Colombia or of Colombian parentage may be considered a Colombian citizen, even if never documented as such.

Be aware as well that all U.S. citizens, regardless of dual citizenship, must present a valid U.S. passport upon returning to the United States. Persons who are both U.S. and Colombian citizens MUST travel between these countries with both passports, presenting the Colombian passport upon departing Colombia and the U.S. passport upon arrival in the United States. 

Additional Exit Requirements for Minors:   To prevent international child abduction, Colombia has implemented special exit procedures for Colombian children under 18 (including dual nationals) who depart the country alone, without both parents, or without a legal guardian.  For detailed information regarding exit requirements for minors with Colombian nationality please visit Migración Colombia's website  (in Spanish only).

Lost or Stolen Passport: If your U.S. passport is lost or stolen in Colombia, you must  obtain a new one before leaving the country. You can report the loss or theft on the Colombian National Police  website .

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Colombia.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism : Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is focused on unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting events, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) 

Terrorist groups and criminal organizations continue operating and carrying out attacks in Colombia.  

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Crime : Crimes and scams against tourists, and those perceived to be wealthy, are common and well-coordinated in urban areas, including in affluent neighborhoods. Firearms and knives are prevalent in Colombia and often used in muggings and robberies under the threat of violence. Drive-by motorcyclist snatchings of cell phones, bags, and valuables are extremely common. Victims are often identified well in advance of the robbery based on visible jewelry, high value wristwatches, and general attire while in public places such as shopping malls, restaurants, and airports.  

Narco-trafficking groups, including the Clan del Golfo frequently engage in violence against civilians and security forces. 

Dating App Robberies/Drugging/Homicides: Criminals use dating apps to lure victims to meet in places such as hotels, restaurants, and bars, and then later assault and rob them. Numerous U.S. citizens in Colombia have been drugged, robbed, and even killed by their Colombian dates. You should be cautious if using dating apps in Colombia. If meeting with a stranger, you should strongly consider meeting only in public places and avoiding isolated locations, such as residences or hotel rooms, where crimes are most likely to occur. Tell a friend or family member of your plans, including where you are going, details of the person you are meeting, and the app you used to meet them.

ATMs : There have been instances of fraudulent charges or withdrawals from accounts due to “skimmed” cards. If you choose to use credit or debit cards, you should regularly check your account to ensure there are no unauthorized transactions. Travelers should limit the amount of cash they carry in public, exercise caution when withdrawing cash from ATMs, and avoid ATMs located on the street. ATMs inside shopping malls or other protected locations are preferable. 

Taxis : U.S. government employees are prohibited from hailing taxis on the street due to the risk of assault or robbery. U.S. citizens have been killed during robberies while using taxis. Use a dispatch service or cell phone app whenever possible.

Disabling Drugs : The Embassy receives regular reports of criminals using drugs to temporarily incapacitate unsuspecting victims and then rob or assault them. Scopolamine, a fast-acting incapacitating drug, is often surreptitiously applied to food, drinks, and hand sanitizer vials by criminals to rob or assault their victims. Victims of scopolamine-related crimes are often targeted in bars, night clubs, or through dating apps. Avoid leaving food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant, and refuse offers of something to eat or drink from a stranger.

Ayahuasca/Hallucinogens: Traditional hallucinogens, often referred to as ayahuasca, can be marketed to tourists as “spiritual cleansing,” and typically contain dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a strong psychedelic that is illegal in the United States and many other countries. Risks to hallucinogen users while intoxicated include robbery, assault, illness, or death. People claiming to be shamans or spiritual practitioners are neither licensed nor regulated.

Demonstrations :   Protests and demonstrations occur frequently, particularly in Bogota. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable; avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

International Financial Scams :   See the  Department of State and the  FBI pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Colombia. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:  

• Romance/Online dating
• Money transfers
• Lucrative sales
• Gold purchase
• Contracts with promises of large commissions
• Grandparent/Relative targeting
• Free Trip/Luggage
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits/job offers
• Bank overpayments
• Posing as U.S. government officials soliciting payment for services.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police by dialing 123 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +57 (601) 275-2000 or +57 (601) 275-4021 after hours. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance. Help in domestic violence situations is available, in Spanish, by calling 155 (*155 from a cell phone).

Tourism : The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities are uncommon. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified by the government or by recognized authorities. In the event of an injury, adequate medical treatment may only be available in or near major cities. First responders may only be able to provide basic medical treatment and may be unable to access areas outside of major cities. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .

Venezuelan Border : The U.S. Department of State has categorized Venezuela as Level 4: Do Not Travel due to crime, civil unrest, poor health infrastructure, kidnapping, and the arrest and detention of U.S. citizens without due process or fair trial guarantees. U.S. citizens are at risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela from Colombia. The Colombia-Venezuela border is not clearly marked, and U.S. citizens should not go near the border due to the risk of crossing into Venezuela accidentally and being detained for illegal entry. If you still choose to travel to Venezuela, do not attempt to enter Venezuela without a visa. Visas are not available upon arrival. U.S. citizens attempting to enter Venezuela without a visa have been charged with terrorism and other serious crimes and detained for long periods. The Maduro regime does not notify the U.S. government of the detention of U.S. citizens and the U.S. government is not granted access to those citizens. The U.S. government has extremely limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Venezuela.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties : You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be arrested, imprisoned, or expelled.  

Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business. 

Customs Regulations : If you enter or exit Colombia possessing cash or other financial instruments worth more than $10,000USD, you must declare them and be able to prove the legal source of the funds. The Embassy has received reports of customs officials confiscating high-value jewelry that was not declared upon entry.

Colombian law prohibits tourists and business travelers from bringing firearms and ammunition into Colombia. Colombian law also restricts the importation of plants and animals (and some related products).

Artifacts : Colombian law forbids the export of pre-Columbian objects and other artifacts protected by cultural patrimony statutes. U.S. customs officials are obliged to seize pre-Columbian objects and certain colonial religious artwork brought into the United States.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification : If you are arrested or detained, ask police to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Colombia are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long pre-trial detention and lengthy prison sentences under harsh conditions. Colombian law may require that released offenders serve a lengthy period of parole in-country, during which the offender is given no housing and may lack permission to work.

Colombia uses comprehensive screening procedures to detect narcotics smuggling at its international airports. Travelers are occasionally questioned, searched, fingerprinted, and/or asked to submit to an abdominal X-ray upon arrival or departure. Most airport inspectors do not speak English.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods : Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website   for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers : See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad  

LGBTQI+ Travelers : Colombia has one of the strongest legal frameworks in Latin America defending the rights of LGBTQI+ people; however, in practice protections remain a long way from full enforcement and harassment persists, especially in rural areas. In many parts of Colombia, violence against trans people exceeds levels of violence against any other members of the LGBTQI+ community. Criminals do utilize dating apps to target potential victims of theft, so travelers should use caution on such apps. Certain regions, especially in rural areas, experience higher instances of harassment/violence against LGBTQI+ communities. In 2022, there was an uptick of homicides specifically targeting gay men in Medellín. LGBTQI+ associated and friendly establishments exist mostly in metropolitan areas, especially Cartagena, Medellin, and Bogota. 

See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities : The law in Colombia prohibits discrimination against persons with physical or mental disabilities, but the law is not fully enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities is not as prevalent as in the United States. Many public places and transportation are not adapted to accommodate the needs of persons with disabilities. The most common types of accessible facilities may include restrooms, ramps, and elevators. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure, including sidewalks, intersections, buses, and taxis. There is a significant difference between the capital (and other large cities) and the rest of the country. 

Repair and replacement parts for aids/equipment/devices are available. Sign language interpreters or personal assistants are available for hire. 

Students : See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers : See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Cruise Ship Passengers : See our travel tips for  Cruise Ship Passengers .

For emergency services in Colombia, dial 123 from any mobile phone or land line.

Ambulance services  are available in larger cities, but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

We do not pay medical bills .  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.  Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance : Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the   U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website  for more information on the type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Travelers can check with the Embassy of Colombia in the United States to ensure the medication is legal in Colombia.

Vaccinations :  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  Visit the  CDC Traveler View  website for vaccination information, and the  Colombia Ministry of Health  website for Yellow Fever vaccination requirements. Childhood vaccinations are required by Colombian law for children ages six and under.  Visit the Ministry for Health and Public Safety website for a list of required childhood vaccinations.

Further Health Information :

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  

Air Quality : Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list of doctors and hospitals .  We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health Facilities in General :

• Adequate health facilities are available throughout the country, but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is frequently, but not always, available.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals. 
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery :

• U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.
• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for more information on Medical Tourism. 
• Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for information on medical tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Colombia.
• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications or repatriation in the case of untimely death.
• Your legal options in cases of malpractice are very limited in Colombia. 
• Although Colombia has many elective/cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in Colombia, carefully research the doctor and recovery facility you plan to use. Make sure that emergency medical facilities are available, and that professionals are accredited and qualified. Share all health information (e.g. medical conditions, medications, allergies) with your doctor before surgery.

Pharmaceuticals :

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas.  Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients.  Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information. 
• Colombia does not allow the sale of certain psychiatric medications.  Travelers should carry a sufficient supply for their trips. Please review the Colombian government’s open data website for drug unavailability.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy :

• If you are considering traveling to Colombia to have a child through the use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our  ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .
• Surrogacy is currently neither prohibited nor permitted under Colombian law. Although surrogacy agencies/clinics claim surrogacy is legal in Colombia, there is no legal framework for foreigners or same-sex couples to pursue surrogacy. As a result, surrogacy agreements between foreign or same sex intending parents and gestational mothers may not be enforced by Colombian courts.

Water Quality : 

• In rural areas, tap water may not be potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Altitude : 

• Many cities in Colombia, such as Bogota, are at high altitude. Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Travel to High Altitudes .

Adventure Travel : 

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

General Health :

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Chikungunya
• Yellow Fever

In Chocó, Nariño, and Córdoba, use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents, and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers in the Amazon region, even for short stays.

HIV/AIDS: Travelers should bring medication sufficient for their entire stay.

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Colombia.

Air Quality :

• Air pollution is a problem in several major cities in Colombia. Consider the impact smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.  
• Infants, children, and teens
• People over 65 years of age 
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema 
• People with heart disease or diabetes 
• People who work or are active outdoors 

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety : Due to the security environment in Colombia and poor infrastructure, U.S. government employees and their families are not permitted to travel by road between most major cities. They also cannot use inter-city or intra-city bus transportation or travel by road outside urban areas at night. Follow these same precautions.

Road travel in Colombia can be dangerous, especially at night. Some roads are poorly maintained, or vulnerable to heavy rains and mudslides. Mountain roads may lack safety features such as crash barriers or guard rails, and conditions are frequently made more treacherous by heavy fog. Highways are often unmarked and unlit, and do not have signs indicating destinations. Slow-moving buses and trucks frequently stop in the middle of the road unexpectedly. In the countryside, livestock is often herded along roads or left to graze on roadsides. Due to a lack of sidewalks, roads are also used by pedestrians.

The use of motorcycles and bicycles is widespread throughout Colombia. U.S. government employees may not use motorcycles because of security concerns.

Traffic Laws : Traffic laws are often ignored and rarely enforced, creating dangerous conditions for drivers and pedestrians. Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers in a private vehicle. Car seats are mandatory for children, and a child under ten years old is not permitted to ride in the front seat. It is against the law to talk on a cellular phone while driving.

If you are involved in an accident, you MUST remain at the scene without moving your vehicle until the authorities arrive. This rule is strictly enforced and moving a vehicle or leaving the scene of an accident may constitute an admission of guilt under Colombian law.

Public Transportation : Do not hail taxis on the street. U.S. government employees may not hail street taxis or use public transportation in Colombia because of security concerns. U.S. citizens have been killed during robberies while using taxis. Use a dispatch service or transportation app whenever possible.

See our  Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of the Colombia national authority responsible for road safety, the  Instituto Nacional de Vias .

Aviation Safety Oversight : The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Colombia’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Colombia’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel : Mariners planning travel to Colombia should also check for U.S. maritime  advisories  and  alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

Tourist Vessels : Exercise caution when embarked on small tourist boats off the northern coast between Cartagena and the nearby islands. During the months of December and January, the seas off the northern coast can be dangerous for small boats. U.S. citizens have died in boating accidents. Check for lifejackets and safety equipment before boarding a tourist vessel.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Colombia .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Traveling To Colombia With A Us Visa: Everything You Need To Know

• Last updated Mar 21, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

Colombia is a vibrant and beautiful country that has gained popularity as a top-notch travel destination. From its picturesque landscapes to its rich cultural heritage, it offers an experience like no other. If you are a US visa holder planning to explore this South American gem, you may have questions about the travel requirements and visa regulations. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about traveling to Colombia with a US visa, ensuring that your journey is hassle-free and memorable. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

What You'll Learn

Are us citizens required to have a visa to travel to colombia, what type of us visa is required to travel to colombia, how long can us citizens stay in colombia with a valid us visa, are there any additional requirements or restrictions for us citizens traveling to colombia with a us visa, are there any specific entry or exit procedures for us citizens traveling to colombia with a us visa.

Colombia is a beautiful country known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm people. If you are a US citizen planning to visit Colombia, you may be wondering whether you need a visa to enter the country. Here is everything you need to know about the visa requirements for US citizens traveling to Colombia.

Visa Exemption for US Citizens:

Good news! US citizens are currently exempt from obtaining a visa for tourism or business purposes in Colombia. This means that as long as you are visiting Colombia for less than 90 days and your intention is for tourism or business, you do not need to apply for a visa beforehand. You can simply arrive in Colombia with a valid passport and you will be granted a tourist or business visa upon entry.

Keep in mind that the visa exemption only applies for stays of up to 90 days. If you plan to stay in Colombia for longer than that, you will need to apply for a visa through the Colombian consulate or embassy in the United States.

Entry Requirements:

While US citizens do not need a visa to travel to Colombia for short stays, there are still some entry requirements that you must fulfill. First and foremost, you must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining. The immigration officers at the Colombian border may also ask for proof of return or onward travel, so it is recommended to have a copy of your return ticket or an itinerary showing your departure date.

Additionally, it is important to note that Colombia requires all visitors to have health insurance that covers medical expenses during their stay. You may be asked to provide proof of health insurance upon entry, so it is wise to carry a copy of your insurance policy or a letter from your insurance provider.

Process at the Colombian Border:

Upon arriving in Colombia, you will go through immigration control where your passport will be stamped with an entry stamp indicating the date of your arrival. The immigration officers may also ask some basic questions regarding the purpose of your visit and the duration of your stay. Be prepared to answer these questions truthfully and confidently.

It is also recommended to have a copy of your accommodation reservation or a contact person in Colombia in case immigration officers request this information. While it is not always asked for, having these documents readily available can speed up the entry process.

Duration of Stay:

As mentioned earlier, US citizens can stay in Colombia for up to 90 days without a visa. If you wish to extend your stay beyond the initial 90 days, you will need to apply for a visa extension through the Colombian immigration authorities. You must do this before your initial 90-day period expires. It is important to note that overstaying your visa can result in fines or other penalties, so be sure to closely monitor your departure date.

In conclusion, US citizens do not need a visa to travel to Colombia for tourism or business purposes for stays up to 90 days. However, it is important to fulfill the entry requirements, such as having a valid passport, proof of return or onward travel, and health insurance. By properly preparing for your trip and adhering to the immigration regulations, you can have a smooth and enjoyable visit to Colombia.

Can H4 Visa Travel to US? Everything You Need to Know

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If you are planning a trip to Colombia from the United States, you will need to obtain a visa before you can travel. The specific type of visa required will depend on your purpose of travel and the duration of your stay. In this article, we will explore the different types of US visas required to travel to Colombia and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to obtain one.

• Tourist Visa: If you are planning to visit Colombia for tourism purposes, such as sightseeing or visiting friends and family, you will need to apply for a tourist visa. This visa is typically valid for a maximum of 90 days and can be obtained by submitting the required documents to the Colombian Consulate in your jurisdiction. The documents usually include a completed visa application form, a valid passport, proof of financial means to cover your expenses during your stay, and a round-trip ticket.
• Business Visa: If you are traveling to Colombia for business purposes, such as attending a conference, meeting clients, or exploring business opportunities, you will need to apply for a business visa. Similar to a tourist visa, the business visa is usually valid for a maximum of 90 days. The application process and required documents are similar to the tourist visa, but you may also need to submit additional documentation, such as an invitation letter from a Colombian business or organization.
• Student Visa: If you are planning to study in Colombia for an extended period, you will need to obtain a student visa. To apply for a student visa, you will need to provide proof of acceptance from a Colombian educational institution, such as an acceptance letter or enrollment certificate. You will also need to submit additional documentation, including proof of financial means to cover your tuition fees and living expenses during your study period. The student visa is typically valid for the duration of your study program.
• Work Visa: If you are planning to work in Colombia, you will need to obtain a work visa. To apply for a work visa, you will need a job offer from a Colombian employer, who will typically sponsor your visa application. The employer will need to provide documentation such as a contract, proof of their business registration, and a letter explaining the details of the employment. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of your qualifications and a valid police clearance certificate.

Once you have determined the type of visa you need, follow these general steps to obtain your Colombian visa:

Step 1: Gather the required documents. This will typically include a completed application form, a valid passport, passport-sized photographs, proof of financial means, round-trip ticket (if applicable), and any additional documentation specific to your visa type.

Step 2: Contact the Colombian Consulate in your jurisdiction to schedule an appointment. Some consulates may require you to apply in person, while others may accept applications by mail.

Step 3: Attend your appointment and submit your visa application. Pay any applicable fees at this time.

Step 4: Wait for the visa processing time to receive your visa. This can vary depending on the consulate and visa type.

Step 5: Once you receive your visa, check the details to ensure they are correct and valid. If there are any issues, contact the consulate immediately.

In conclusion, traveling to Colombia from the United States requires obtaining a visa, which will depend on the purpose of your visit. Whether it is a tourist, business, student, or work visa, it is important to gather the necessary documents and follow the application process outlined by the Colombian Consulate. By following the steps provided, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free visa application process for your trip to Colombia.

Understanding Eligible Travel for the Costco Visa: A Comprehensive Guide

US citizens can stay in Colombia for up to 90 days with a valid US visa. Colombia allows US citizens to enter the country for tourism, business, or transit purposes without the need for a visa if their stay is less than 90 days. However, if you plan to stay in Colombia for longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a visa.

Colombia offers several types of visas for individuals who wish to stay in the country for an extended period of time. The most common visas include the Temporal visa, which is issued for up to two years and can be renewed for an additional two years, and the Resident visa, which is granted to individuals who plan to reside in Colombia permanently.

To apply for a Colombian visa, US citizens must visit the nearest Colombian consulate in the United States and submit the required documents. These documents typically include a completed visa application form, a valid passport, proof of financial means to support your stay, a criminal background check, and any other supporting documents specific to the type of visa you are applying for.

Once your visa application is approved, you will receive a visa sticker in your passport, which will indicate the length of your authorized stay in Colombia. It is important to note that overstaying your visa in Colombia can result in fines, deportation, or other legal consequences. Therefore, it is advisable to closely monitor the expiration date of your visa and make arrangements to leave the country before it expires, or apply for an extension if necessary.

It is worth mentioning that visa requirements and regulations can change over time, so it is always a good idea to check with the Colombian consulate or embassy in your country before planning your trip. They will be able to provide you with the most up-to-date information and guidance on visa requirements for US citizens.

In conclusion, US citizens can stay in Colombia for up to 90 days with a valid US visa. If you plan to stay for a longer period, you will need to apply for a Colombian visa. It is important to comply with all visa requirements and to closely monitor the expiration date of your visa to avoid any legal issues during your stay in Colombia.

Managing Your Travel Plans: Is It Possible to Travel Before Your Visa Expires?

If you are a US citizen planning to travel to Colombia with a US visa, there are a few additional requirements and restrictions that you should be aware of. While the visa itself allows you entry into the country, there are certain steps and guidelines you must follow to ensure a smooth journey.

Firstly, it is important to note that the type of US visa you hold will determine the length of your stay in Colombia. Tourists with a B1/B2 visa are granted a maximum stay of 90 days, while those with a student or work visa may have different allowances. It is essential to check the specific terms and conditions of your visa to avoid any issues during your stay.

Before traveling to Colombia, US citizens must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the country. This requirement is in place to ensure that travelers have a valid document that will not expire during their stay. It is recommended to renew your passport if it is set to expire within six months to avoid complications at the border.

Additionally, US citizens traveling to Colombia with a US visa must register their trip with the US Department of State's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This free service allows the US embassy in Colombia to contact you in case of an emergency and provides valuable travel advisories and information. Registering for STEP is a simple process that can be completed online, ensuring that you have access to important updates during your journey.

While there are currently no visa requirements for US citizens traveling to Colombia, it is still necessary to follow certain health and safety protocols. All travelers entering Colombia must complete an online form called "Check-Mig," where they will be required to provide information about their health and recent travel history. This form must be completed no more than 24 hours before departure.

Additionally, it is highly recommended for US citizens traveling to Colombia to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. While it is not a requirement, having insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

It is also important to be aware of the current COVID-19 travel restrictions and guidelines. As of now, Colombia requires all travelers, regardless of their vaccination status, to present a negative PCR or antigen test taken no more than 72 hours before departure. It is essential to stay updated on the latest travel advisories and requirements to ensure a smooth journey.

In conclusion, US citizens traveling to Colombia with a US visa have a few additional requirements and restrictions to be aware of. It is essential to check the specific terms and conditions of your visa, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months, register your trip with the US Department of State, complete the Check-Mig form, and stay updated on COVID-19 travel restrictions and guidelines. By following these steps and guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and hassle-free trip to Colombia.

Exploring the Limitations and Considerations of Traveling Outside the US on a J-1 Visa

If you are a US citizen planning to travel to Colombia with a US visa, there are specific entry and exit procedures you need to be aware of. Following these procedures will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

Before your trip, it is essential to check your visa requirements for Colombia. US citizens can usually enter Colombia without a visa if their stay is for tourist purposes and is less than 90 days. However, if you are traveling for a longer duration or for any other purpose such as work or study, you may need to apply for a specific visa in advance.

When it comes to entering Colombia, US citizens are required to present a valid passport. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Colombia. Upon arrival, you will need to complete an immigration form, which will be provided to you either on the plane or at the airport. This form will ask for your basic information and the purpose of your visit.

During the immigration process, you may also be asked to provide additional documents, such as proof of return or onward travel, proof of accommodation in Colombia, or proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay. While these documents may not always be requested, it is a good idea to have them readily available in case you are asked.

It is important to note that Colombia can be strict with its border control measures, particularly regarding the entry of drugs or illegal substances. Make sure you are aware of the rules and regulations regarding prohibited items before your trip to avoid any legal troubles.

When it comes to exiting Colombia, the process is relatively straightforward. You will need to provide your passport and any necessary departure tax if applicable. If you have overstayed your visa without obtaining an extension, you may be subject to fines or other penalties upon departure.

In conclusion, if you are a US citizen planning to travel to Colombia with a US visa, it is important to familiarize yourself with the entry and exit procedures. Ensure your passport is valid, have the necessary documents ready, and be aware of any visa requirements or restrictions. By following these procedures, you can have a hassle-free journey and enjoy your time in Colombia.

Exploring the Boundless Possibilities: Is a Schengen Visa Valid for Travel Everywhere?

Frequently asked questions.

Yes, you can travel to Colombia with a valid US visa. As of February 2022, Colombia recognizes the US visa as a valid travel document for entry into the country. However, it is essential to check the specific visa requirements and regulations for your nationality before traveling.

No, if you have a valid US visa, you do not need to apply for a separate visa to enter Colombia. The US visa allows you entry into Colombia for tourism, business, or transit purposes, as long as your stay does not exceed the visa's validity period. However, please note that other entry requirements, such as a valid passport and proof of sufficient funds, may still apply.

The duration of your stay in Colombia with a US visa depends on the visa's validity period granted by the United States. Typically, US visas allow for multiple entries and stays of up to 6 months per visit. However, it is essential to check the specific visa conditions and expiration dates to ensure compliance with Colombian immigration regulations. If you wish to stay longer or for purposes other than those permitted by your US visa, you may need to apply for a Colombian visa through the appropriate channels.

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How to Get a 180-day Colombia Tourist Visa: Colombia Visa for Indians

HOW TO GET COLOMBIA TOURIST VISA - APPLICATION PROCESS & FEES

By Deb Pati last updated on April 21, 2022

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• Colombia Work Visa
• Extend Colombia Tourist Visa Online
• Colombia Visa Requirements

I applied for the Colombia tourist visa twice, once in Ecuador and the other time in India. In this article, I will write about my experience and how it went both times. Although the Colombia visa application process was similar in both countries, there were some differences.

But before I get to that, I will brief you on things to see in Colombia.

Things to Do in Colombia

Colombia has everything, be it pristine islands or gorgeous small towns, or rain forests. While a lot of tourists throng popular destinations like Cartagena, Cocora valley, Tayrona National Park, Medellin, and the coffee country, there are so many off-the-beaten-path places in Colombia.

And if you are planning to learn Spanish in Latin America, Colombia is probably one of the best places to learn Spanish as Colombians are known to have one of the most neutral Spanish accents.

And traveling in Colombia is probably the fastest way to learn Spanish .

What’s your visa status? 1. Are you from a country that’s not visa-exempt for Colombia? Then you are at the right place. You need to apply for a tourist visa prior to your entry. Examples- India, China, Nigeria, South Africa. 2. Are you from a visa-exempt country? It means enter without any tourist visa and receive an entry stamp with the number of days you can stay at the immigration. Usually 90 days. Examples- USA, Canada, Philippines,EU.

Sometimes many tourists refer to this as a Colombia e visa. The thing is the visa is emailed to you in an electronic format, which you don’t need to get stamped on your passport if you are planning to stay in Colombia for less than 3 months.

By the way, it does not matter whether you enter Colombia visa-free or with a tourist visa. You have to fill in the Check Mig Colombia form .

Table of Contents

Do You Need a Visa to Go to Colombia ?

Citizens of many countries don’t need a visa for Colombia if the purpose of their visit is tourism or sightseeing etc. Examples- EU countries, the U.S.A, Canada, Australia, Japan, etc.

Now do Indians need visas for Colombia? Yes, they do. So do the Chinese. And a lot of others.

And if the purpose of the visit has to do anything other than tourism, everyone except for citizens of Mercosur countries needs a visa for Colombia.

To check who needs a visa for Colombia, check this article on Colombia visa requirements and types .

My Experience Getting Colombia Tourist Visa

I applied for the Colombia visa online twice. The first time was in Ecuador and the second time in India.

Colombia Visa Application in Ecuador, the First Time

Since arriving in Ecuador, I had been confused about whether to extend my tourist stay in Ecuador for 90 days or get a Colombia tourist visa and leave Ecuador.

Note : Indians need an Ecuador tourist visa nowadays.

Although a Colombia visa for Indians like me is easier to get in the Colombian embassy in Delhi, I hadn’t tried it there. I wasn’t sure whether I could get a visa for Colombia in Ecuador, but I had to give it a try.

I taught English in a public school in Quito, thanks to a program called Time to Teach Ecuador. I stayed with a local family and learned Spanish. Things were good. And if it was up to me, this life would have gone on for long.

However, the program was an administrative mess and most volunteer teachers like me took the heat. So once I was sure that my days in Ecuador were numbered, I decided to get a visitor visa for Colombia since I was so close to it.

Applying Colombia Visa in India, the Second Time

Even if you apply from India, the Colombia visa application process is exactly the same as getting it anywhere else. You can get it from the Colombian embassy in Delhi. While you might need to show a couple more documents, everything else will be the same.

I applied for the Colombian e visa online in India after being married to a Colombian for a few years. While I thought, it would be a piece of cake, they actually asked for more documents.

Do you have a USA or Schengen Visa?

And if you are from the following countries, you will be able to enter Colombia with a USA visa or Schengen visa valid for at least 180 days from the day of your arrival in Colombia.

Ok, now let me tell you how to get the tourist visa for Colombia starting from the application process.

Colombia Visitor Visa Application Process Step by Step

Step 1: apply colombia tourist visa online.

Colombia has a centralized website(SITAC) where you can apply for any kind of Colombia visa online. Find out whether the country where you are applying for a visitor visa for Colombia has a consulate or embassy of Colombia.

If you go to the visa section of the website of the Colombian embassy, you will be forwarded to the website below where you would need to fill out your details. The SITAC Colombia portal would be the same no matter which country you are applying from.

Step 2: Document Checklist for Colombia Tourist Visa

Colombia visa requirements are not very straightforward. For instance, do you know what they don’t tell you when applying for the Colombia tourist visa? That you should get the documentation ready before you start the application process on the portal.

Unless you upload all the documents once you start the Colombia visa application process, you wouldn’t be able to complete the process and submit it.  Here is the list of requirements for Colombia tourist visa from the official website.

Colombia Visa Requirements in Ecuador

As usual, I booked my refundable flight tickets on Orbitz.com.

The onward flight was from Quito to Bogota, a couple of months from the date of application of visa, whereas the return flight from Bogota to Delhi with a date 5 months after the date of my arrival.

I used booking.com to make refundable reservations in different hostels starting from Bogota to Santa Marta, Cartagena, and a few other places, with my stay ranging from a week to 3 weeks at each hostel. To keep things simple, I saved the reservations in Spanish.

Booking.com allows you to save the application in Spanish and it’s quite useful if you are applying for a visa for any Latin American country.

And to show ’em da money, I downloaded the statements from my HDFC bank account in India for the last 6 months. I had a balance of more than 6000 USD at that time.

On top of it, I decided to scan a couple of my Credit cards and save them in PDF format.

Although they don’t mention the flight tickets and hotel reservations, you would need to upload them in the ‘additional documents’ section. Along with all this, I also uploaded the pages of my passport with the entry stamp from Ecuador. As an Indian citizen, I had 90 day limit in Ecuador and by that time, I had consumed 3 weeks out of it.

Colombia Visa Requirements in India

So when applying for the Colombia visa online in India, I sought it as the spouse of a Colombian citizen. I provided all the standard documents like

Round trip flight ticket

I booked refundable tickets on Orbitz for both my wife and myself.

Hotel booking

I did the refundable reservations on booking.com for a week in Bogota.

Employment Documents

I provided the salary slips for the last 3 months and a no-objection certificate(NOC) from my employer.

Entry/Exit Stamps from Colombia

Since I had already been to Colombia, I had to upload the last entry stamp in the Colombia visa application portal online.

Proof of Funds

I had to provide the bank statements for the last 3 months from my Indian bank account.

Cover letter for Colombia tourist visa

I wrote a cover letter explaining my intent to visit Colombia, how long I would be there and the places I would be visiting in detail. Although you could write this in English, it is better to do it in Spanish if you speak it.

Invitation Letter for Colombia

After I submitted all the documents, they provided a comment that I needed to provide an invitation letter from my wife, inviting me to Colombia. Yes, as weird as it may sound, that’s what they asked for.

Step 3: Pay Colombia Visa Fees for Visa Study

Ok, this might sound super weird, but to get a visa for Colombia, you always have to pay up first for them to go through your documents. That’s how it is.

Payment for visa study fees in Ecuador

After saving the application, you need to choose the nearest consulate and the medium of pay. It’s different for every consulate. I chose Quito and then visited the consulate of Colombia in Quito with my application number.

They asked me to visit the nearest Banco de Pichincha branch with the bank account number of the embassy. I paid 52$ and went back to the consulate with the receipt. I submitted a printout of my application along with all the documents that I had submitted online, and the original receipt.  It’s not necessary to submit the physical documents but I decided to just do it anyway. I received automated emails every time the status of your application is changed. You can check the status of your Colombia visa application on the website of the Ministry of Foreign affairs as well. 

Payment for visa study fees in India

In India, I made the payment online through a credit card. To do this, you could visit the payment link :   https://tramites.cancilleria.gov.co/pago.aspx 

You would need to provide the application number and then choose the option, and then make the payment.

Step 4: Visa Interview & Payment of Visa Processing Fees

Once the status of your visa application moves to APPROVED or to the Interview stage (REQUIRED, for: ENTREVISTA EN OFICINA), you would receive an emails stating the same. The email would always contain the text in Spanish and then in English.

The English sometimes would contain traces of Spanish but you can make sense of it.

Interview in Ecuador & Visa Fee Payment

In Ecuador, after a week, I received an email that my visa has been approved.

Although technically there was no need for an interview in my case, I still had a short, informal one at the consulate. The interview happened in Spanish as my Spanish had improved a lot by then. The consular officer was real nice and quite surprised with my Spanish. He asked me some generic questions like 1) Why do I want to visit Colombia? 2) What all places do I want to visit there? 3) Do I know anyone in Colombia? I answered accordingly. Then I was asked to pay the visa processing fees (82$) in the same bank with the same account number and bring them the original receipt. I did that and then they asked me to leave my original passport there.

Visa Fee Payment in India

In India, I didn’t have to do an interview. Rather, I got the email to pay the fees for Colombia tourist visa. I was also able to check Colombia visa online status for the same.

I ran into some issues when trying to make the payment through a credit card from India. While making the payment, I closed the browser window accidentally and after that when I retried, it simply didn’t work.

So I had to call up a friend in Colombia to make the payment on my behalf through the PSE option, which allows someone to make payments through Colombian payment apps or bank account.

I also wrote to the email addresses for help in the mean time, but I had already made the payment by the time they responded.

Step 5: Colombia Visa Stamping 

Stamping in ecuador.

After a couple of days, I received an email from the embassy that my passport was ready with the visa stamp. I received an Electronic visa in my email as well.

Receiving the Colombia Electronic Visa in India

When I recieved the Colombia visa in India, I did not go for stamping in the consulate of Colombia in Delhi as it was simply too far. And I could simply do the registration in Colombia.

Celebrate with some Aguardiente. Or Canelazo.

Colombia is often ranked as the happiest country in the world. So, now that this happiness is gonna be a part of you, it’s time to listen to some Latin music and have some Aguardiente, the national drink of Colombia.

Colombia Visa Processing Time

Here is the thing about Colombia visa processing time: It is limited to 30 days. This means, if you don’t get a decision within 30 days, you would need to reinitiate the whole thing.

You would need to file a fresh application, pay the study fees, wait for them to review the documents.. you get the picture.

That being said, it shouldn’t take that long in most cases. In my case, the Colombia visa processing time in India was close to 3 weeks while the same took 2 weeks in Ecuador.

Colombia Visa Online Status

You can check the Colombia visa status online at any time during the visa processing by visiting the cancilleria link .

Understanding the Colombia Electronic Visa or eVisa

When your Colombia tourist visa is issued, you get an email containing the visa in Electronic format. You can use this as a backup in case you are unable to make a visit to the consulate for the visa sticker.

If your visa has been issued for less than three (3) months, you can enter, stay and leave the country showing your electronic visa, without printing it over the passport. But if it’s for more than 3 months, you need to get it printed in the Bogotá VISAS office.

And you should do that within 2 months from the date the visa is issued.

Visa fees: – 134$ in total ( 52$ for study + 82$ for processing) Visa duration :- Even though I had applied the visa for 4 months, I got it for 5 months in total. You can get it for 180 days maximum. Visa validity :- The visa was valid from the day it was issued.   No. of entries :- Multiple

Colombia Visa Policy: F.A.Q.S

Is it possible to convert colombia tourist visa to any other visa.

Yes. And the good part is that you can convert your tourist visa to another visa while being in Colombia, without needing to leave the country. While I was there I converted my tourist visa to a volunteer visa for Colombia easily.

Later, I got a job teaching English and converted the volunteer visa to a Colombia work visa .

Do I Need to Apostle or Translate Any Documents for a Colombia Tourist Visa?

As the official language of Colombia is Spanish, you might need to get some documents translated and apostiled to apply for the visa. You need to check with the particular consulate about the same. 

Although, lots of times documents in English just work fine.

A Friend in Colombia Invited me to Come to Colombia. What All Documents Do I Need For This?

If you are visiting Colombia through a tourism agency or a friend, you can get a letter of invitation from them and upload it in the documentation section. You also might need to upload a copy of their national identity card or Cedula .

How Can I Apply for a Colombia Tourist Visa if There is no Embassy of Colombia in my Country?

If Colombia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in your country, check out the nearest consulate and ask them how to pay the fee. If you can pay it online, well and good. If not, you should make the arrangements first and then apply for the visa.

Can I Extend Colombia Visa in Colombia?

As long as you don't exceed the maximum 180 days stay limit, you can extend your Colombian visa. So if for example, your Colombia visa duration is 120 days, then you can extend it for 60 more days.

Note that your Colombia visa extension experience can be totally different from people who enter Colombia without a visa and with a simple entry stamp on their passport. Anyone who enters Colombia as visa-exempt would simply be extending stay in Colombia , rather than an actual visa.

Is There a Tourist Visa Colombia for a Longer Duration?

You can get a Visitor(V) visa for Colombia for up to 180 days. However, it's possible to get a tourist visa for up to 2 years as well. But, you shouldn't try it the first time you visit Colombia. They would normally deny it.

The Visa Project quick tip: Once you apply online, the application is valid for 30 Calendar days. If for some reason, your case takes longer than that, you go back to square one and start out with a new application and upload all the documents and pay the visa fees to study it one more time. So make sure you can get it done in 30 days.

The Visa Project’s Comprehensive Visa Series: Guides & Experiences

Visa requirements are always changing. Here on The Visa Project, they are kept up-to-date and should answer most visa questions.

And not just guides and tips, we also rely on real people’s experiences on visas, coz’ we know how much visas change based on your nationality, financial status, age, ethnicity, etc.

South America Visa Series: Experiences

• Tourist Visa for Bolivia
• Extend Bolivian Tourist Visa : A US Citizen’s experience
• Peru Visa for Indians : Peru Tourist Visa in Bolivia
• Peru Visa Extension Online
• Peru Visa Extension in Immigration Office : A US citizen’s experience
• Tourist Visa for Brazil : How I got it in Ecuador
• Ecuador Professional Visa : An Indian’s experience
• Ecuador Visa for US Citizens : Ecuador temporary residency visa
• SENESCYT Ecuador Registration : Register your degree in Ecuador
• Colombia Work Visa : Teach English in Colombia
• Colombia Tourist Visa Extension : A US Citizen’s perspective

South America Visa Series: Complete Guides

• Visas for Colombia
• Visas for Ecuador
• Bolivia Visa Requirements
• Peru Visa Requirements

Have you applied for Colombia tourist visa?

If you applied for a tourist visa for Colombia, was the whole process smooth? Please let us know in the comments. If you have any questions, feel free to ask.

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About Deb Pati

Deb Pati is the founder of The Visa Project. He has lived and traveled in many countries. When he is not travelling, he is either working or writing.

Reader Interactions

July 20, 2020 at 6:22 am

This is a simple easy-to-follow article on applying for a Tourist Visa. I’m bookmarking it whenever I’m going to apply for a Visa in South America. I plan to visit South American when this pandemic is over.

August 1, 2020 at 2:18 pm

Thanks Sayed. I am planning for it as well.

August 8, 2020 at 6:22 am

I have not visited Colombia yet but it is definitely on my bucket list 😇 thanks for the informative post 😅

August 11, 2020 at 6:04 pm

Glad to help.

August 27, 2020 at 11:03 am

I am planning to come to Columbia after April 2021 & hopefully use my TEFL DIPLOMA to gain employment teaching English! If a company hires me on what is the longest legal length of stay! I am an American citizen? Thank you kindly for your help! My gmail is danielcm1956gmail.com !

August 31, 2020 at 8:20 am

Hi Daniel. You need to make sure is that the company that hires you, also sponsors your work visa. Many employer don’t. That being said, it’s common to get a visa for a year since the contracts are renewed every year.

August 31, 2020 at 8:21 am

Here is the article on Colombia work visa .

September 12, 2020 at 5:23 am

Hi there- I was wondering if US citizens get 180 days in a year? Or does it reset if I leave and enter Colombia again?

September 17, 2020 at 9:29 am

Hi Melissa, yes US citizens do get 180 days in a calendar year. The limit starts from the day you enter Colombia, rather than the beginning of a year. Reentering won’t reset your limit.

September 30, 2022 at 8:58 pm

Sir i need invitation letter for Colombia tourist visa did you provide that

October 1, 2022 at 11:30 am

Hi Shahab, You can do reservations in a hotel or hostel. That should be enough.

December 27, 2020 at 3:51 pm

Hello, great post! I have a question, I booked by return flight from Orbitz but had to cancel it within 24 hours to be refunded. Now I have a copy of a confirmed ticket pdf, which is actually cancelled in the system (if its checked by anyone). Can you let me know if the pdf will work

December 27, 2020 at 5:14 pm

The confirmed ticket can work. But if you want to play a little more safe, you can try to rent a ticket for 15 days https://thevisaproject.com/recommends/visa-reservation/

December 27, 2020 at 5:40 pm

Hello, thank you. I have to reach Colombia in the 1st week of February and hence I thought about starting the process. Do Colombian authorities check the current status of the said ticket?

Thank you for sharing the reference, I wanted to understand if renting it for 15 days is a good idea as the Visa process may take 25-30 days?

Also, has anyone you know used their service? Thanks in advance for answering the questions, Deb!

December 28, 2020 at 6:42 am

If everything goes well, the visa process shouldn’t take more than 15 days. The idea behind renting it for 15 days is that it will have a confirmed PNR and in case anyone checks, it will be valid. If the process takes longer, you can explain them that it was a refundable reservation and you can extend them.

I have used their services and know friends who have.

October 4, 2022 at 6:58 pm

Great article

October 5, 2022 at 6:33 am

Thanks, Kevin.

December 27, 2020 at 8:01 pm

Hello, thank you Deb. I am planning to arrive Colombia in the 1st week of Feb and the Visa process from India can take up to 25-30 days. Given that I need to submit all this while filling the online application, would this be the right time to get a fresh ticket, hotel reservations and medical insurance?

For medical insurance, what this company creates for me will still apply? For hotel, they have some days limitation and I can try to book it externally and have them take care of ticket and medical insurance?

December 28, 2020 at 1:31 pm

Colombia is open and people are traveling there. But you should definitely do the homework before traveling there. PCR test etc. And as far as insurance is concerned, we strongly recommend Safetywing. Cheap and covers lots of things including COVID, and you can extend it later. https://thevisaproject.com/recommends/safety-wing-nomad/

Hotel reservation- you can do it on Booking.

December 29, 2020 at 5:01 pm

Hello, I am currently filling the form online. The documents seem to be accepted only one file per line and when I verify, it only shows the 1st document that was posted in the checklist item Should I merge the PDF files into one document per line?

December 30, 2020 at 11:40 am

I am assuming that you are seeing the same screen that I have uploaded in the article. All the necessary documents such as hotel reservations, flight tickets should be uploaded as separate PDF files. You can upload any documents for which you don’t see an option in the additional documents section.

December 31, 2020 at 3:30 pm

Hello, yes I am referring to the same checklist, but it only lets you submit one document per line. If more documents are added, it picks up the last document posted and the previous one disappears. I checked that in the next page after continuing.

For example, in the line which requires you to put a coverletter and bank statements, I wasn’t able to attach 2 documents. It would pick up the Bank statement only when checked in the next page ‘documento suporte’. Hence I merged them into one PDF which was the only option. Same goes with the rest of the documents.

Its been a couple days I paid and applied, hope the visa is not rejected because of this. I really had no other choice and I work in technology, so I guess I checked all other alternatives. What do you think?

January 1, 2021 at 3:14 pm

I understand. Yeah, I think that should be fine. And if they need something, they will notify you to upload any other documents.

January 6, 2021 at 5:11 pm

Hello, I submitted and paid on 12/29 and its been 5 working days since then. The last email I got was from ‘[email protected]’ on 12/29 itself

Which says –

“Estimado usuario,

Nos permitimos informarle que se ha registrado exitosamente el pago de la referencia 113999000011056.

Adjuntamos soporte de pago”

Wanted to know if it can take longer, and whats is the protocol if I dont hear back?

January 7, 2021 at 12:59 pm

They simply want to inform you that they received your payment. What is the status now? Drop an email n ask them about it. You can also visit the embassy but not sure whether that’s possible now.

January 15, 2021 at 11:42 am

Hello, my visa was rejected. Even when all my documents were completed and I provided them all the things they asked for. I have sent an email to check further details

January 16, 2021 at 7:00 am

Sorry to hear that Shobhit. That is strange. Did they provide any reasons?

January 16, 2021 at 11:04 pm

Nothing yet, it said I can’t reapply for another 6 months. I wanted to check if I can rather go for Ecuador and if it will be any easier to go as a tourist? Or if its better to apply a student visa for either countries?

January 17, 2021 at 7:35 am

Hello what are the alternatives I have? Is that easier to go for Equador, Bolivia, Surniname or another region? I just need to meet my gf from the USA and see if we both like to live outside US

January 17, 2021 at 8:45 am

Bolivia is easy. You can also get a visa on arrival. https://thevisaproject.com/experience/bolivia/bolivia-tourist-visa/

May 5, 2021 at 5:18 am

Sorry it got rejected Shobhit. What do you think prompted them to do so, if you don’t mind me asking? Bank account balance?

January 17, 2021 at 2:32 pm

Thanks! I will look into that. I hope the process once you reach Bolivia is hasslefree? Anything you suggest to carry/keep to avoid any issues? I may have more questions for you in coming days 🙂

January 18, 2021 at 8:52 am

I did. Sure Shobhit.

May 5, 2021 at 5:19 am

Hi, is there a minimum bank account balance threshold you recommend?

May 5, 2021 at 5:30 pm

At least 1500 USD.

June 23, 2021 at 4:52 pm

Hi Deb. Great article. I’m South African and will be applying for a Colombian visa. You mentioned that the visa was valid from the date it was issued. My question is: if you get a 3 month visa to stay in Colombia, does the 3 months start from the date the visa is issued or from the date you enter Colombia? Thanks!

June 24, 2021 at 12:28 pm

Hi Guy, It would start from the day it’s issued, not from the day you enter.

July 7, 2021 at 7:07 pm

Hi Deb. Thank you for this highly informative article. I am a fellow indian who lives in the US, however, my current H-1B visa stamp has validity of less than 180 days from my upcoming travel to Colombia hence I will be applying for a visa.

I was wondering if they need the picture to be of certain specifications or this is something that you just took yourself ? Thank you in advance for your response!

July 8, 2021 at 2:51 pm

Hi Raj, Thanks for stopping by. If I remember correctly, it should be a 4 X 3 Color photograph with a white background. The photo should be of a maximum of 300 kb and in jpg format.

November 6, 2021 at 12:26 pm

hello Deb. Thanks for the article sir, it helped a lot. Am a Somali citizen who legally stays in turkey as a TOURIST( I have residence permit) and I am planning to go to Colombia next month. 1. What advice could you give me? 2. Rather than the documents required on the list, what additional documents will increase the % of my visa approval? 3. Is there a need for a power attorney if I’m applying for the visa myself?

P.S: THERE IS A COLOMBIAN EMBASSY IN TURKEY THANKS!

November 6, 2021 at 3:21 pm

Hi Abdirahman, Since you have a residence permit in Turkey, you can surely apply for a Colombia visa there. Apart from the usual documents, I think what would help you a lot are the bank statements and if you are employed. Do upload bank statements, credit card statements and anything that demonstrates that you have money. The more, the better.

No need for power of attorney as you are doing it yourself.

March 1, 2022 at 11:19 am

Hello, I am an India and I applied on Thursday 24th Feb for Colombian Tourist e-visa. The status has gone to no. 3 – Formalised as of today.

Do you know how long it usually takes for the visa to arrive? I have to fly on Friday 4th March 2022 so I know I am cutting it quite short. Very nervous!

(PS – I had a valid Schengen visa but only for 30 days. I didn’t realise I needed 180 days validity, hence I had to suddenly make a last minute application. Really worried!)

March 6, 2022 at 2:51 am

Hi Angad, I guess you have flown by now and hopefully got the visa. The visa sometimes takes 2 weeks or more.

May 9, 2022 at 10:44 am

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR THE VISA TO BE REJECTED,,IS IT DURING THE PROCESSING OR AFTER 30 CALENDAR DAYS?

May 11, 2022 at 7:17 am

Hi Anthony, In case it is rejected, they would let you know within 30 days. But it is also possible that you don’t get selected/rejected within 30 days. In that case, you would need to reapply.

November 2, 2022 at 6:27 pm

So I live in the US and got the Tourist e-visa by email, valid for two years. So, should I go to the Consulate to get it stamped on my passport? Or can I travel to the country without getting it stamped? I am only staying in Colombia for eight days.

Could you explain what steps/processes I should do in this scenario? Can I get by without getting stamped, or should I go to Consulate or Visa Office In Bogota?

November 4, 2022 at 10:01 am

Hi Ashwin, You don’t need to get it stamped. Just the e Visa is fine. However, Indian citizens with valid US visas don’t need a visa to enter Colombia.

November 7, 2022 at 4:49 pm

Hi deb! I am from India and I applied for evisa. I have uploaded invitation letter of my friend who inviting me.

But I didn’t upload tickets because they didn’t ask in documents list. Is it mandatory?

November 9, 2022 at 1:43 pm

Hi Gorav, Yes, you should upload the tickets/reservations and the other relevant documents even if they don’t ask. They will most probably come back to you asking for this.

December 5, 2022 at 8:11 am

What does the visa expiration mean ? I got my Colombia tourist visa with a valid date from December 1 , 2022 – February 20, 2023. Does that mean that I can stay in Colombia for 90 days even if I enter Colombia in February 19 and leave the country after the expiration date ?

December 6, 2022 at 2:50 pm

Hi John, No, that means your visa gets activated on 1st Dec and expires on 20 Feb. So you can stay in Colombia during that period only.

January 22, 2023 at 2:26 pm

Your site really gave me an inside of the whole process, yes, I have applied for Colombia visa and am still waiting on it. However, they require me send some documents via a link. I was unable to attach those documents successfully, but I end up send those documents via the email link as an attachment. I don’t know if it will be accepted.

The application is now in stage 3, how long more will i wait to get the visa decision. Lastly must he visa process necessarily goes through the step-by-step process ?

January 23, 2023 at 9:18 pm

Hi Ruben, Yes, this happens sometimes. I guess you sent the documents to the email of the consulate of Colombia in your country. They should get back to you, but do follow up.

The applications should always be processed within 30 days. And yes, it always goes through that step-by-step process.

All the best, Deb

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Colombia Visitor Visa (V)

If you are planning to visit Colombia for tourism, business, or medical treatment purposes, you may need to apply for a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V). The eVisa is an electronic travel authorization that allows eligible foreign nationals to enter Colombia for a temporary period of stay.

The Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) is an alternative to the traditional visa application process, which involves submitting a paper application to the nearest Colombian embassy or consulate. The eVisa process is faster and more convenient, as it allows applicants to complete and submit their application online from anywhere in the world.

The Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) is valid for up to 90 days from the date of issuance and allows for multiple entries during its validity period. The eVisa is available for nationals of select countries, and the eligibility criteria may vary depending on the purpose of the visit.

To apply for a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V), applicants must provide personal information, travel details, and other supporting documents such as a scanned copy of their passport and a recent passport-sized photograph. The application must be submitted at least five business days before the intended travel date.

Once the eVisa application is submitted, it undergoes a review and approval process by the Colombian immigration authorities. Applicants will receive an email notification regarding the status of their application. If approved, the eVisa will be sent to the applicant's email address in the form of a PDF document.

It is important to note that a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) does not guarantee entry into the country. The final decision to allow entry into Colombia rests with the immigration officials at the port of entry.

The Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) is a convenient and efficient way to obtain travel authorization for a temporary stay in Colombia. It is important to ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria and provide accurate and complete information in the application to increase your chances of a successful eVisa application.

What is a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V)?

A Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) is an electronic travel authorization that allows eligible foreign nationals to enter Colombia for a temporary period of stay for tourism, business, or medical treatment purposes. It is an alternative to the traditional visa application process, which involves submitting a paper application to the nearest Colombian embassy or consulate. The Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) can be applied for online and is faster and more convenient than the traditional process. The eVisa is valid for up to 90 days from the date of issuance and allows for multiple entries during its validity period. It is important to note that the final decision to allow entry into Colombia rests with the immigration officials at the port of entry, and the eVisa does not guarantee entry into the country. The eligibility criteria for the eVisa may vary depending on the purpose of the visit, and applicants must provide personal information, travel details, and other supporting documents such as a scanned copy of their passport and a recent passport-sized photograph. The application must be submitted at least five business days before the intended travel date, and the eVisa will be sent to the applicant's email address in the form of a PDF document if approved.

Who is eligible for a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V)?

The following individuals are eligible to apply for a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V):

• Citizens of countries that require a visa to enter Colombia and do not qualify for visa-free entry.
• Individuals traveling to Colombia for tourism, business, or medical treatment purposes.
• Individuals who will stay in Colombia for up to 90 days.
• Individuals with a valid passport from an eligible country.
• Individuals who have not previously violated Colombian immigration laws or regulations.
• Individuals who meet the eligibility criteria and provide all required documents and information during the application process.

It is important to note that meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee the issuance of a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V). The final decision on the issuance of a visa is at the discretion of the Colombian Consular or Immigration Authorities.

Visa category 

The visa category for the Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) is a temporary visitor visa. This visa allows eligible foreign nationals to enter Colombia for tourism, business, or medical treatment purposes for a temporary period of stay. The eVisa is an electronic travel authorization that is valid for up to 90 days from the date of issuance and allows for multiple entries during its validity period. 

• Press Coverage
• Administrative / Judicial Procedures
• Airport Transit
• Asistencia Tecnica
• Audiovisual And/Or Digital Production
• Business (Short Stay)
• Corresponsal Permanente
• Estudiante / Voluntario Religioso
• Event Participation
• Fomento A La Internacionalización
• Intern / Trainee
• Intracorporate Transfer
• Medical Treatment And Companion
• Nomada Digital
• Nonforseeable Activities Under Resolution 6045 Of 2017
• Official Or Commercial Representative Of Foreign Government
• Religious Worker
• Ship Or Maritime Rig Crew Member
• Student Exchange, Arts And Crafts And/Or Postgraduate Studies
• Temporary Services
• Trabajador Agricola De Temporada
• Volunteer / Cooperant
• Work-Holiday Program

How to apply for a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V)?

To apply for a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V), follow these steps:

• Visit the official website of the Colombian government's eVisa portal.
• Select the "Visitor Visa" option and check if you are eligible to apply for an eVisa based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.
• Provide personal information, travel details, and other required documents such as a scanned copy of your passport and a recent passport-sized photograph.
• Pay the visa processing fee using a valid debit or credit card.
• Review and submit the application.
• Wait for the application to be reviewed and approved by the Colombian immigration authorities. You will receive an email notification regarding the status of your application.
• If approved, the eVisa will be sent to your email address in the form of a PDF document. Print out a copy of the eVisa to present it to the immigration officials at the port of entry.

It is important to note that the application must be submitted at least five business days before the intended travel date. Also, ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria and provide accurate and complete information in the application to increase your chances of a successful eVisa application.

Required documents for a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V)

To apply for a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V), you will need to submit the following required documents:

Valid passport : Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of your planned arrival in Colombia.

Photograph : You must provide a recent, color photograph of yourself that meets the specific requirements for passport photos.

Completed visa application form: You must complete the Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) application form accurately and completely.

Travel itinerary: You must provide a detailed travel itinerary that includes your planned dates of arrival and departure, accommodation details, and any planned activities or tours.

Proof of financial means: You must provide proof of financial means to cover your expenses during your stay in Colombia, such as bank statements or proof of employment.

Return ticket : You must provide a copy of your round-trip airline ticket or itinerary that shows your planned departure from Colombia.

Additional documents: You may be required to provide additional documents, such as proof of travel insurance or a letter of invitation from a Colombian sponsor or host.

It is important to note that the Colombian Consular or Immigration Authorities may request additional documents or information during the application process, and meeting the above requirements does not guarantee the issuance of a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V).

Processing time for a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V)

The processing time for a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) varies depending on the workload of the Colombian Consular or Immigration Authorities and the completeness of your application. Generally, the processing time for a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) ranges from 3 to 15 business days from the date of submission.

However, it is recommended to apply for a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) at least two weeks before your planned travel dates to allow for any potential delays or additional processing time. It is also important to ensure that your application is complete and all required documents are provided to minimize processing time.

It is important to note that the processing time for a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) may be longer during peak travel seasons or in case of unexpected circumstances, such as holidays or a sudden increase in visa applications. Therefore, it is advisable to plan ahead and apply for a visa well in advance of your intended travel dates.

Validity and duration of a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V)

A Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) is typically valid for up to 90 days from the date of issue. This means that you must enter Colombia within 90 days of the visa being issued. Once you have entered Colombia with a Visitor eVisa (V), you are generally allowed to stay for up to 90 days from the date of entry.

It is important to note that the duration of stay allowed with a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) cannot be extended beyond the initial 90-day period. If you wish to stay in Colombia for a longer period, you will need to apply for a different type of visa, such as a Colombia Migrant Visa or Resident Visa.

It is also important to remember that the Colombian Consular or Immigration Authorities have the final decision-making power regarding the validity and duration of a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V). 

Benefits of a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V)

The Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) offers several benefits for eligible foreign nationals who wish to visit Colombia for tourism, business, or medical treatment purposes, including:

Convenience: The eVisa can be applied for online from anywhere with an internet connection, eliminating the need to visit a Colombian embassy or consulate in person.

Fast processing times: The eVisa application can be processed within 3-5 business days, allowing for a quicker and more efficient visa application process.

Multiple entries: The eVisa allows for multiple entries during its validity period, providing greater flexibility for travelers who need to leave and re-enter Colombia during their stay.

Longer stay period: The eVisa allows for a stay of up to 90 days, which is longer than the 60-day stay allowed for visitors entering Colombia without a visa.

Reduced paperwork: The eVisa application requires less paperwork than the traditional visa application process, making it a more streamlined and efficient option.

Cost-effective: The eVisa processing fee is generally lower than the cost of a traditional visa, making it a more cost-effective option for eligible travelers.

Overall, the Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) offers a more convenient, faster, and efficient option for eligible travelers who wish to visit Colombia for tourism, business, or medical treatment purposes.

Restrictions of a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V)

There are certain restrictions that apply to a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V):

Purpose of travel: The eVisa is issued for tourism, business, or medical treatment purposes only. If you wish to travel to Colombia for any other purpose, you will need to apply for a different type of visa.

Duration of stay: The eVisa allows for a maximum stay of 90 days in Colombia. If you wish to stay longer, you will need to apply for a different type of visa.

Employment: You are not permitted to work in Colombia with a Visitor eVisa (V). If you wish to work, you will need to apply for the appropriate work visa.

Education: You are not permitted to study in Colombia with a Visitor eVisa (V). If you wish to study, you will need to apply for the appropriate student visa.

Criminal records: If you have a criminal record, you may not be eligible for a Visitor eVisa (V) and may need to apply for a different type of visa.

Medical records: If you have a serious medical condition, you may not be eligible for a Visitor eVisa (V) and may need to apply for a different type of visa.

It is important to note that the restrictions may vary depending on the specific circumstances of your travel and the discretion of the Colombian immigration authorities. It is always best to check the latest visa requirements and restrictions before applying for a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V).

Renewing or extending a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V)

The Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) is a temporary travel authorization that is valid for up to 90 days from the date of issuance and cannot be renewed or extended. If you wish to stay in Colombia beyond the authorized stay period, you must apply for a new visa or leave the country and re-enter at a later time with a new eVisa or a different type of visa.

If you are in Colombia and need to extend your stay due to an emergency situation, such as a medical emergency or natural disaster, you can request an extension of your stay from the Colombian Immigration Office (Migración Colombia) before your eVisa expires. The decision to grant an extension is at the discretion of the immigration authorities and is usually granted on a case-by-case basis.

It is important to note that overstaying your authorized stay period can result in fines, detention, deportation, and may also affect your ability to enter Colombia or other countries in the future. Therefore, it is recommended that you plan your trip carefully and ensure that you have the appropriate visa or travel authorization before traveling to Colombia.

Frequently Asked questions

The Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) is an electronic travel authorization that allows eligible foreign nationals to enter Colombia for tourism, business, or medical treatment purposes for a temporary period of stay.

Foreign nationals from eligible countries who are traveling to Colombia for tourism, business, or medical treatment purposes are eligible to apply for a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V).

To apply for a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V), you need to complete the online application form, pay the processing fee, and submit the required documents, including a passport copy and a photograph.

The processing time for a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) is typically 3-5 business days.

A Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) is valid for up to 90 days from the date of issuance and allows for multiple entries during its validity period.

No, a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) cannot be renewed or extended. If you need to stay in Colombia beyond the authorized stay period, you must apply for a new visa or leave the country and re-enter at a later time with a new eVisa or a different type of visa.

The benefits of a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) include convenience, fast processing times, multiple entries, longer stay period, reduced paperwork, and cost-effectiveness.

No, a Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) does not allow you to work in Colombia. If you plan to work in Colombia, you need to apply for the appropriate work visa or permit.

You need to submit a passport copy, a photograph, and other documents as required by the Colombian immigration authorities, such as proof of travel arrangements, proof of accommodation, and proof of financial means to support your stay in Colombia.

If your Colombia Visitor eVisa (V) application is denied, you can contact the Colombian embassy or consulate for more information on the reason for the denial and the options available to you.

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Colombia Tourist Visa – Application, Eligibility And Duration

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What is stopping you from visiting Colombia? Is it that you don’t qualify for a visa to the country? That is not a problem. You can easily apply for a Colombia Tourist Visa and a view of the country within 90 days.

If you love nature, Colombia is the perfect destination for you. This South American country is home to many natural and tourist attractions. Thus, it attracts a lot of tourists every year. You have many reasons to visit the country which is the 2nd best bio-diverse country. In addition, the people are friendly. Plus, the architecture, unique culture, peculiar food and the beaches. You have a reason to visit this country.

Thus, in this article, our team of writers has gone into deep research to reveal everything about Colombia Tourist Visa to you. The requirements, validity, processing time, and fees, among others.

What is Colombia Tourist Visa?

Colombia Tourist Visa is issued to foreign nationals visiting Colombia for rest and recreation. It also allows its holders to enter Colombia for tourism. Furthermore, holders can reside in Colombia temporarily.

Who needs a Colombia Tourist Visa?

Generally, citizens of Schengen Area countries don’t need a visa to enter Colombia. In addition, nationals of the following nations don’t also need an entry permit to enter Colombia. They include:

• European Union citizens
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Hong Kong (up to 180 days)
• Liechtenstein
• Marshall Islands
• New Zealand
• North Macedonia
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Sovereign Military Order of Malta
• Solomon Islands
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Vatican City

*Citizens of these countries can stay in Colombia with their ID cards. In addition, nationals of the countries above can extend their Colombia Tourist Visa only once. Thus, they can stay in Colombia for 180 days.

Who can enter Colombia with another type of visa?

Additionally, citizens of the following countries with a Schengen short-stay visa or resident permit can stay in Colombia for up to 90 days. It also includes holders of US short-stay visas or residence permits. However, it must be valid for another 180 days. They include:

• Macau (up to 180 days)

Requirements for Colombia Tourist Visa

To obtain a Colombia Tourist Visa, you will need the following documents. You can visit the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to get a comprehensive list of these documents. The documents include:

#1. Application form for Colombia Tourist Visa

You must fill out an application form for your visa. In the form, you must provide your personal information and details about your nationality. In addition, you must state the reason and duration of your stay in Colombia.

#2. Passport

Another document for a Colombia tourist Visa is a valid passport. It must be in good condition. It must also have two blank pages for the visa stamp.

In addition to the passport, you must have two photos of the same size and colour. The specifications for the pictures are:

• recently taken
• you must be facing the camera
• it must be in colour
• it must have a white background
• have 3×3 dimensions

#4. Proof of payment

You have to pay the visa fee and present the receipt to the officials at the embassy. The general visa fee is USD 45. However, the nationals of the following countries pay different dues. They include:

• Algeria: USD19
• Bulgaria: USD26
• China: USD25
• Haiti: USD20
• Egypt: USD25
• India: USD39
• Iran: USD25
• Kenya: USD20

#5. Proof of financial means

You must provide evidence of economic sustenance in Colombia. Thus, you can provide your pay slip or recent bank statement.

#6. Letter of invitation

You must also present a letter of invitation showing that a resident of Colombia has invited you to Colombia. In addition, you will add a document showing the economic capability of your host.

#7. Flight ticket

Another document you need for a Colombia tourist Visa is a flight ticket to and from Colombia. It must contain both the arrival and departure dates.

#8. Proof of accommodation in Colombia

You will also provide a document as evidence of your accommodation in Colombia. It can be a hotel reservation or a letter from your host in Colombia proving that he has a place for you to stay in Colombia.

How to apply for Colombia Tourist Visa

Follow the steps below to get your Colombia Tourist Visa in a few days. Plus, it will save a lot of money for you. However, you must complete the application in 30 minutes. Otherwise, the session will expire. They include:

Step 1. Find out the nearest Colombian embassy near you

The first thing you must do is to find out the location of the embassy nearest to you. There are two reasons for this. First, if the embassy does not accept an electronic application, you must submit your application at the embassy in person. Secondly, you must visit the embassy to collect your visa.

Step 2. Contact the embassy about your Colombia Tourist Visa

You must contact the embassy to know the requirements to apply for a visa to Colombia for tourism. You can also book an appointment with the embassy.

Step 3. Convert all your Colombia Tourist Visa documents into PDF format

You must convert all the documents into PDF format if you apply online. So, you have to enquire from the embassy to know the type of application they accept.

Step 4. Fill out an online application form

You can now fill out an online application form. You must fill in the correct details in each space. The information includes your name, nationality, the purpose of travel and the duration of your visit.

Step 5. Select Colombia Tourist Visa as visa type

You will select the Colombia Tourist visa as your visa type.

Step. 6. Upload the PDF format of the documents for your visa

The next step is to upload all the documents and attach them to your application. Your documents must be in PDF format.

Step 7. Select the Colombian embassy or consulate of your choice

You must select the nearest embassy to you. However. If you are in Colombia, you must choose the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It is where you will collect your visa.

Step 8. Select the method of payment for the Colombia Tourist Visa

Select the method of payment you want to use for your visa fee. You can use any of the following methods. They include:

• Online using PSE Electronic Service Provider
• Servibanca ATM if you are in Colombia
• Colombian embassy
• Banco GNB Sudameris in Bogotá if you are in Colombia

Step 9. Wait for processing

Once you have finished the application, you have to wait for the embassy o process your application. It takes about five days to process.

Step 10. Visit the embassy or consulate to collect your Colombia Tourist Visa

You can visit the embassy to receive your visa if your application is successful. However, residents of Colombia must visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can i apply for a colombia tourist visa.

If you are applying for a tourist visa for the first time, you must apply through a Colombian embassy in your country. You can apply for a visa extension through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

How long does it take to process a tourist visa to Colombia?

It takes the embassy about five days to process a tourist visa. However, if there is an irregularity during the process, it can take as long as 30 days to process your visa.

How long is a tourist visa valid in Colombia?

Your tourist visa is valid for 90 days, with an option to extend it for another 90 days. However, you cannot apply for an extension more than once.

Can I work with a tourist visa in Colombia?

Holders of tourist visas in Colombia are not allowed to work. To work in Colombia, you must apply for a work visa. It permits you to live and work for a Colombian employer in the country.

Is Colombia a good place for visitors?

Yes, Colombia is a very welcoming country. Thus visitors feel at home in the country. The residents are friendly. Plus, the natural environment is good for relaxation and holidays. It is also peaceful with a minimal crime rate. Thus, you can visit the country with your family without fear.

Finally, if you meet the requirements for a Colombia Tourist Visa, it will be easy for you to get your permit. However, you must follow the guidelines we have provided in this article. In addition, you can contact the Colombian embassy to enquire about the requirements for your visa application.

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