Colombia Visa

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

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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? 

Visa requirements for Colombia vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. For instance, travelers from the US, Canada, and the EU can enjoy visa-free travel for up to 180 days per calendar year. If you don't fall under the following categories, you'll need a visa to enter Colombia. You can find this list on the government entities website.

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.

Learn More

Migrant Visa

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

Learn More
Resident Visa

Resident Visa

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

Learn More
Women Colombia

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.

Typically granted for the duration of your trip, but can be granted for up to 2 years.
All visas in Colombia are electronic so you don't need to go to Bogota to get your passport stamped.
The government entity has up to 30 days to respond to your visa application.

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.

Resident 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.

Resident Visa

Explore More Colombian Visitor Visas

Colombia Visitor Visa Requirements

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.

Valid passport (or travel document)
Document needs to be in good condition, valid for at least 6 months, with a minimum of two blank pages.
Recent 3x4 Digital Passport Style Photograph
Facing the camera, in color and against a white background.
6 Months of Bank Statements
Provide documents evidencing that the economic capacity is sufficient to remain in Colombia as a tourist.
Plane Tickets and Accommodation
Photocopy or electronic information of the respective tickets for arrival and departure tickets and accommodation.
A Letter Describing The Purpose of Your Trip
A letter describing your itinerary and the purpose of your trip.
Additional Requirements
Additional requirements will depend on the specific type of visitor visa you are applying for.

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.

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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.

Typically granted for 1-3 years at a time.
Migrant visas are the first step to achieving Colombian dual citizenship.
After 2-5 years of continuously holding a migrant visa you may be eligible for a Resident visa.
Type M Visa In Colombia

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.

Read more
Marriage Visa Colombia

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.

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parent visa colombia

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.

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Work Visa

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.

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Real Estate Colombia

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.

Read more
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Business Visa Colombia

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.

Resident Visas are granted for 5 years at a time and are renewable.
After holding the resident visa for a 2-5 years (times vary based on what type of migrant visa you hold) you will be eligible for dual citizenship.
The application process is very similar to your migrant visa process.
Resident Visa Requirements

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.

A Foreigner Who Holds a Migrant Visa for an Extended Amount of Time
A foreigner who has been a holder of a temporary visa and who has lived in national territory regularly for 2-5 years. The amount of time required is dependent on your situation.
Temporary Protection Statute for Venezuelan Migrants.
This visa is specifically for Venezuelan Migrants protected under Protection Statute (ETPV).
A Colombian Who Has Previously Renounced Their Citizenship
For foreigners who, having been Colombian by birth or by adoption, renounced their Colombian nationality.
Special Resident Peace Visa
In compliance with Law 831 of May 18, 2017, to foreigners who are former members of the FARC-EP. who  signed the Final Agreement for the Termination of the Conflict and the Construction of a Stable and Lasting Peace, and has transitioned to legality.
Colombian Visa Application Process

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.

Gather required documents Colombia Visa

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.

Cancilleria's Website
Colombia Visa 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.

Government visa fees

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.

Colombia Visa Application

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.

Example of Colombia Visa

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Your Partners

Daniela Cordoba
Founder and Lead Attorney

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 Funkhouser
Co-Founder and Client Support Lead

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.

Over 1,000 Visas Accepted

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

Personalized Support

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.

Fluent in English and Spanish

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.

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