Colombia Visa
Colombia is a fantastic destination, especially for nature lovers. As the second most bio-diverse country in the world, it offers stunning landscapes, from lush rainforests to high-altitude Andean regions. Colombia’s friendly people, vibrant culture, beautiful architecture, delicious food, and sunny beaches make it a must-visit country in South America.
If you’re planning a trip to Colombia, you might need to apply for a visa. This guide explains who needs a Colombia visa, the application process, requirements, and the various types of visas available.
Who Needs a Visa for Colombia?
You need a Colombia visa unless you’re from one of the visa-exempt countries listed below. Nationals from these countries can visit and stay in Colombia for up to 90 days without a visa:
- European Union citizens
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- Canada
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Mexico
- Japan
- South Korea
- And many others.
Citizens from some countries, such as Argentina, Brazil, and Peru, can enter Colombia with only their ID card. If you wish to stay longer than 90 days, you can request a 90-day extension, allowing a total stay of up to 180 days.
Entering Colombia with a Visa from Another Country
If you have a short-stay visa or residence permit issued by a Schengen country or the USA, you can enter Colombia without a Colombian visa for up to 90 days if you’re from one of the following countries:
- India
- China
- Thailand
- Vietnam
- And others.
Your visa/residence permit must be valid for at least another 180 days from the date of arrival in Colombia.
Do I Need a Visa to Transit Through a Colombian Airport?
If you’re transiting through a Colombian airport, you might need to apply for a V – Transit Visa at a Colombian embassy or consulate. This visa can be issued for up to 30 days and allows multiple transits within Colombian airports, with a maximum stay of 24 hours. If you plan to leave the airport or if your connecting flight is over 24 hours away, you need to apply for a Colombian short-stay visa (Visitor Visa).
Colombia Visa Requirements
To apply for a Colombia visa, you’ll need to submit several documents. The exact requirements depend on the type of visa and the country you’re applying from, but here’s a general list:
- Your valid passport: At least six months of validity and with at least two blank visa pages.
- Passport-size photo: 3 cm x 4 cm, taken in the last three months.
- Bank statements from the last six months: Proof of financial resources.
- Travel itinerary and airplane ticket: Proof of your travel plans.
- Proof of accommodation: Hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from a friend or family member.
- Additional documents depending on your visa type and purpose of travel.
If your documents are not in Spanish, they must be translated by a certified translator. For long-term visas, you might need to legalize official documents with an Apostille or through the Colombian consulate.
Types of Colombia Visas
Colombia offers three main types of visas:
- Visitor Visa (V): Also known as a Tourist Visa, for short-term stays. This can cover tourism, business, transit, and more.
- Migrant Visa (M): For longer-term stays, such as work, study, or family reunions.
- Resident Visa (R): For foreigners who intend to live permanently in Colombia.
Each visa type has its own subcategories. For example, a Visitor Visa might be issued for tourism, business, or short-term academic programs. Migrant Visas are for those who wish to work or study in Colombia, and Resident Visas are for long-term residents.
How to Apply for a Colombia Visa?
To apply for a Colombia visa, you’ll need to use the online application system from the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Here are the steps:
- Complete the online Colombia visa application form: Answer the questions truthfully.
- Attach the required documents: Include electronic copies of your passport, photo, and other supporting documents.
- Select the Colombian Consulate for your application: Choose the nearest consulate to your location.
- Pay the visa fee: Fees vary based on your country of residence and visa type.
- Wait for processing: You’ll be notified via email about the status of your application. If approved, you’ll receive your visa online.
Once you have your visa, you must visit the local immigration authorities (Migración Colombia) to register your stay. This should be done within 15 days of arrival in Colombia. If you’re staying for longer than three months, you’ll receive a Foreigners ID Card (Cedula de Extranjeria).
How Long Does It Take to Process a Colombia Visa Application?
Colombia visa applications typically take 2-3 weeks to process but can take up to 30 days. Apply well in advance of your intended travel date to ensure you have enough time to secure your visa.
Colombia Visa Fees
When applying for a Colombia visa, you generally have to pay two separate fees: a processing fee and a visa issuance fee if the application is successful. The exact amounts vary depending on your country of residence and visa type. Generally, the initial processing fee is about $52, while the issuance fee varies.
Conclusion
Whether you’re visiting Colombia for its natural beauty, vibrant culture, or business opportunities, understanding the visa requirements and application process is key. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Colombia’s visa policy, helping you navigate the application process smoothly. Make sure to check with the Colombian consulate in your area for the latest requirements and processing times to ensure a successful trip to Colombia.