Every Type of Colombian Visa And How To Apply

So, you’re considering a trip or even a move to Colombia? With its beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and promising opportunities, it’s no wonder you’re drawn to this vibrant country. But before you book your flight, it’s essential to understand the Colombia visa types. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the different Colombia visa types, application requirements, and tips to ensure a smooth process, helping you easily navigate your way to Colombia.

Key Takeaways

• Colombia offers three different types of visas to accommodate different purposes and durations of stay. The visas include visitor, migrant, and resident visas.
• The Colombian government entity typically responds within a few weeks but can take up to 30 days to respond to your application.
• Each visa has different requirements and durations, so you should work with a Colombian immigration attorney or talk with a Colombian consulate before applying.

Colombia Visa Overview

Whether you’re planning a short vacation or considering a long-term move, the Colombian government has designed its visas to accommodate various purposes and durations of stay. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs oversees the analysis and ratification of visa applications, ensuring that foreign nationals can legally stay in Colombia with the correct documentation.

Among the Colombian visas available are the popular tourist (visitor) visa, the migrant visa for those seeking long-term residence, and the resident visa for permanent residency. Each visa type has specific requirements and fees, which we will explore in more detail throughout this blog post. Remember that some countries enjoy visa-free entry to Colombia, while others must apply for the appropriate visa before arrival, including the Colombia e visa.

Should you be a citizen of one of the 99+ countries that qualify for visa-free entry, a hassle-free visit to Colombia for up to 90 days awaits you. This means you can travel to Colombia without the need to apply for a tourist visa, allowing you more time to focus on planning your exciting adventure.

Colombia Visa-Free Entry and Eligible Countries

Should you be a citizen of one of the 99+ countries that qualify for visa-free entry, a hassle-free visit to Colombia for up to 90 days awaits you. This means you can travel to Colombia without the need to apply for a tourist visa, allowing you more time to focus on planning your exciting adventure.

Colombian Visa-Free Countries

If you are interested in traveling to Colombia and you are not included in lists A, B, C or in special cases, you must apply for a Colombian Visa. This list is directly from the Cancilleria's website.

Understanding Colombia's Visa Categories

Navigating the Colombian visa system can be confusing due to the variety of categories and subcategories. To make things more manageable, remember that there are three primary categories of Colombia visas: Visitor (V), Migrant (M), and Resident (R). Each category has its own set of subcategories based on the purpose of travel, such as tourist, business, or investment visas.

For example, the Visitor (V) visa encompasses subcategories like a tourist, rentista, religious, digital nomad, and business. The specific requirements for each visa type will vary but generally include a valid passport, completed visa application form, passport-sized photograph, proof of financial resources, and proof of travel insurance.

Understanding the various visa categories and their requirements helps you choose the most fitting visa and prepare effectively for the application process.

Tourist (Visitor) Visa

The Colombia Tourist Visa, also known as the Colombia Visitor Visa, is designed for foreigners who wish to visit Colombia for a short period, whether for leisure, business, or medical treatment. This visa is typically issued for a maximum duration of 180 days, but in certain circumstances, it can be valid for up to two years. During your stay, you can explore Colombia’s rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant cities, making the most of your visit.

It is important to note that foreigners who can regularly travel for up to 180 days per year without needing a visa are not eligible for tourist visa.

To apply for a Tourist Visa, you’ll need to provide various documents, such as a valid passport, proof of financial stability, and any other documents requested by the Colombian consulate or embassy. Be sure to research the specific requirements for your visa type and any additional documents that may be necessary for your particular situation.

If you are from a visa-exempt country, you'll typically be granted a 90-day stay at the time of entry into Colombia. If you wish to stay longer than 90 days, you can ask for an additional 90 days, up to 180 days total per year. You must apply for a visa if you wish to stay longer than 180 days.

Keep in mind that exceeding your visa’s duration without obtaining an extension may result in fines or deportation.

Types of Colombian Visitor Visas
Airport Transit Visa Allows travelers to pass through Colombian airports without entering the country.
Tourism Visa Permits individuals to visit Colombia for tourism and leisure purposes.
Business Visa Allows foreigners to engage in business activities within Colombia.
Student Visa Issued to foreign students enrolled in Colombian educational institutions.
Medical Treatment Visa Granted to those seeking medical treatment or procedures in Colombia.
Administrative and/or Judicial Procedures Visa For individuals involved in legal or administrative matters in Colombia.
Crew Member Visa Designed for members of international flight or maritime crews.
Seasonal Agricultural Worker Visa Allows foreign agricultural laborers to work in Colombia temporarily.
Events Visa For participants in special events or conferences in Colombia.
Religious Visa Granted to religious workers and missionaries.
Student/Religious Volunteer Visa For foreign students engaged in religious volunteer work.
Volunteers or Cooperators Visa Issued to those participating in volunteer or cooperative projects.
Large-Format Film or Documentary Productions Visa For foreign filmmakers producing large-format films or documentaries in Colombia.
Digital Nomad Visa Designed for remote workers and digital nomads looking to live and work in Colombia.
Journalistic Coverage Visa Allows foreign journalists to cover events and news in Colombia.
Permanent Correspondent Visa For foreign correspondents based in Colombia on a long-term basis.
Technical Assistance Visa Issued to individuals providing technical support and expertise.
Free Trade Agreement (TLC) Entrepreneurs Visa For entrepreneurs and investors from countries with trade agreements with Colombia.
Unaccredited Officials Visa Covers non-accredited foreign officials temporarily residing in Colombia.
Work and Vacation Visa Allows young adults to work and travel in Colombia.
Work Internship Visa Issued for foreign individuals participating in work internships in Colombia.
Service Provider - Work or Labor Visa For foreign workers providing specific services or labor in Colombia.
Promotion of Internationalization Visa Facilitates internationalization efforts by foreign individuals or businesses.
Rentista Visa For individuals with income from overseas investments.
Unforeseen Cases Visa Covers exceptional circumstances not covered by other visa types.
Diplomatic Visitors Visa This visa is intended for foreign diplomats visiting Colombia for diplomatic purposes.
ICETEX Program Visa Reserved for individuals participating in the ICETEX program, typically involving scholarships or educational exchanges.
International Agreements Visa Issued to those entering Colombia under international agreements for specific purposes.
Complementary Measure Visa This visa type is granted as an additional measure to address specific immigration situations.

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Migrant Visa

If you’re considering a longer stay or even establishing residence in Colombia, the Migrant Visa may be the right option for you. This visa category covers a range of purposes, such as pension, investment, or marriage, and can be issued for up to three years. The Migrant Visa is an excellent choice for those who want to immerse themselves in Colombian culture, start a business, or join family members living in the country.

The Migrant Visa consists of 11 subcategories, each tailored to specific needs and requirements. For example, the Pensioner or Retirement Visa requires a pension that is at least three times the minimum wage, while the Spousal Visa necessitates being married to a Colombian citizen. Understanding these subcategories and their requirements will help you determine which Migrant Visa is the best fit for your situation.

Keep in mind that the Migrant Visa has a validity for one to three years, and to maintain its validity, you must be present in Colombia at least once every six months. This visa offers an excellent opportunity to experience life in Colombia while providing the flexibility to travel and maintain connections with your home country.

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Resident Visa

For those who meet specific requirements and wish to make Colombia their permanent home, the Resident Visa is the ideal choice. The Resident Visa grants permanent residency for five years, allowing you to fully integrate into Colombian society, work, and enjoy many of the same rights and benefits as Colombian citizens.

To be eligible for a Resident Visa, a majority of foreigners will need to hold a Migrant visa first for a set number of years. As of October 2022, the option to make a significant investment in Colombian real estate in order to obtain permanent residency is no longer an option. In the case of a foreign investment, the foreigner will first need to hold a Migrant visa for 5 years, and then will be eligible for a resident visa.

If you’re considering making Colombia your permanent home, the Resident Visa is an excellent pathway to achieving that goal as holding a Resident visa will put you on a path towards Dual Citizenship.

Timelines to Qualify for a Resident Visa:

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Requirements for Colombia Visa Application

Being cognizant of the specific Colombia visa requirements for your chosen visa type is crucial when applying for a Colombian visa. These requirements may include translated and apostilled documents, proof of income, and health insurance.

Although the requirements for each visa type can vary, some general documents are necessary for all applications.

Typical Requirements Include

• A valid passport
• A passport-sized photograph
• A photocopy of the last entry stamp on your passport if you're in Colombia at the time of application
• Any other documents requested by the Colombian consulate or embassy

Ensuring that you have all the necessary documents prepared and in order will help streamline the application process and increase your chances of a successful outcome.

Processing a Colombian visa application typically takes anywhere from a few weeks to 30 days, depending on how busy the government entity is at the time. To avoid any potential delays or complications, we recommend applying at least 4-6 weeks before you need the visa.

How to Apply for a Colombia Visa

Applying for a Colombian visa involves an online application process, which can be accessed through the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. This convenient system allows you to submit your application and all necessary documents electronically, making the process more efficient and straightforward.

Once your visa application is approved, you will receive a visa stamp via email, as Colombia no longer offers a physical stamp in your passport. The digital visa serves as official proof of your visa and must be presented upon entry to Colombia.

If you have any questions or need assistance with your visa application, don’t hesitate to consult with us as we are more than happy to assist you with your application. We can guide the application process, requirements, and any potential issues that may arise during the process. You can ensure a smooth and successful visa application experience by seeking professional advice and following the appropriate steps.

Colombia Visa Fees and Payment Methods

Colombia visa fees consist of two distinct components: the visa study fee and the visa processing fee. These fees vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your nationality. Visa fees can be found using this page and selecting the type of visa and subtype you'd like to apply for.

Credit card or bank card payments through the PSE payment system can be paid for Colombia visa fees. In some cases, certain countries may enjoy fee exemptions, making the visa process even more accessible for those travelers.

Renewing Your Visa

If you fall in love with Colombia and wish to extend your stay, renewing or extending your visa is possible online before the initial visa duration expires. By applying for a visa extension, you can continue exploring Colombia's beauty and culture without the stress of overstaying your visa.

However, being aware of the consequences of overstaying your visa without obtaining an extension is crucial. Fines or even deportation may result from exceeding the duration of your visa. To avoid these penalties and ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience in Colombia, always apply for a visa extension if you plan to stay beyond the limits of your current visa.

To give yourself plenty of time, we recommend applying 4-6 weeks before your visa expires.

Colombia Permanent Residency and Citizenship

After spending some time in Colombia, you may consider permanent residency or citizenship. Colombia offers several pathways to permanent residency and citizenship for foreign residents who meet specific requirements, such as living in Colombia for five years or investing in the country.

By obtaining a Resident Visa grants you the right to live and work in Colombia indefinitely and enjoy many of the same rights and benefits as Colombian citizens. After accumulating a specific amount of time holding a Resident visa, you may be eligible to apply for Colombian citizenship, fully integrating into Colombian society and contributing to the country’s growth and development.

Eligibility For Dual Citizenship:

Whether you’re considering permanent residency or full citizenship, Colombia offers a welcoming and supportive environment for foreigners who wish to call this vibrant country home. With a strong economy, rich culture, and diverse community, Colombia is ideal for those seeking new opportunities and a fresh start.

Tips for a Smooth Colombia Visa Process

A smooth Colombian visa process requires diligent research and thorough preparation. Here are some steps to follow.

1. Familiarize yourself with the visa requirements for your chosen visa type.
2. Gather all necessary documents in advance of your application.
3. Give yourself at least 4-6 weeks before you need the visa to apply. This will help you avoid any surprises or delays during the application process.
4. Carefully answer any requirements and questions from he government entity as soon as possible.

In addition to researching requirements and preparing documents, it’s also a good idea to apply for your visa well before your planned travel date and consult with an immigration attorney. It is a lot easier for an immigration attorney before you make a mistake than after.

By following these tips and staying organized throughout the process, you’ll be well on your way to a successful Colombia visa application and an unforgettable experience in this beautiful country.

Summary

In conclusion, navigating the Colombia visa process can be a breeze with the right preparation and knowledge. By understanding the different visa types and their requirements, you can confidently apply for the visa that best suits your needs and embark on your Colombian adventure. Whether planning a short visit, a long-term stay, or even permanent residency, Colombia offers many opportunities for travelers and residents alike. So pack your bags and get ready to experience Colombia's beauty, culture, and warmth!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Type M visa in Colombia?

The Type M visa in Colombia is a Migrant Visa granted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, allowing foreigners to enter and stay in the country for 1-3 years.

What is the best visa to get in Colombia?

The Colombian Resident Visa is the best option for those looking to make Colombia their permanent residence. It allows foreigners to live in Colombia on a full-time basis. However, the best visa depends on the individual's personal circumstances.

How do I get a long-term visa for Colombia?

To stay in Colombia long term, apply for a migrant visa through an investment, family, work, or retirement visa.

After a few years, you can then apply for a resident visa.

What are the three primary categories of Colombia visas?

The primary categories of Colombian visas are Visitor (V), Migrant (M), and Resident (R).