Colombia Visa: A Colombian visa is an official document permitting a foreign national to enter and reside in Colombia for a specified period. Depending on the purpose of your stay, various types of visas are available, such as tourist, work, student, retirement, and investor visas. Each visa category has specific requirements and duration limits. To apply, submit the necessary documents to the Colombian consulate or embassy in your home country or online through the Migración Colombia website. Fees and processing times vary. Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria before applying to avoid delays or denials.
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Important informations
Who Needs a Visa for Colombia?
Citizens of certain countries are required to obtain a Colombian visa before traveling to Colombia. The list of countries whose citizens need a visa includes China, India, Russia, and most African countries, among others. The type of visa required depends on the purpose of the visit, such as tourism, business, study, or work. It is essential to check the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements and application procedures. Failure to obtain the necessary visa can result in denied entry or deportation.
Do I Need a Visa to Transit Through a Colombian Airport?
Transiting through a Colombian airport requires careful consideration of visa regulations. If you hold a valid onward ticket for a country outside the Colombian Schengen Area and plan to stay in the airport during your connection, you may not need a Colombian visa. However, immigration authorities have the final say, and they may deny boarding if they believe you intend to enter Colombia. If your connection time is less than six hours, or if your flights are with different airlines, you may be required to obtain a transit visa. It is recommended to check with the Colombian embassy or consulate in your country before traveling to avoid any potential complications.
What Are the Requirements for a Colombia Visa?
A Colombia visa is a document issued by the Colombian Consulate or Embassy that grants the holder permission to enter and stay in Colombia for a specific period. The requirements for a Colombia visa vary depending on the type of visa and the individual’s nationality. Generally, applicants must provide a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, a completed application form, two recent passport-size photographs, proof of sufficient funds for the duration of stay, and evidence of travel arrangements. Some visas may require additional documents, such as a letter of invitation from a Colombian host, proof of health insurance, or a police clearance certificate. It is recommended to check the specific requirements with the Colombian Consulate or Embassy before applying.
Colombia Visa Types
Colombia offers various visa types for foreigners based on their purpose of stay. The most common types include:
1. Tourist Visa: Allows stays up to 180 days in total. Suitable for travelers, tourists, and those attending conferences or short-term courses.
2. Student Visa: Required for individuals planning to study in Colombia for more than 180 days. It can be obtained through a Colombian educational institution.
3. Work Visa: Granted to foreigners who have secured a job offer from a Colombian employer. It can be temporary or permanent, depending on the job and the length of employment.
4. Retirement Visa: Designed for foreigners aged 18 or older who wish to retire in Colombia. Applicants must demonstrate a stable income or pension.
5. Investor Visa: Issued to foreigners who invest a significant amount of capital in Colombia. It can lead to permanent residency and eventual Colombian citizenship.
Each visa type has specific requirements and application procedures. It’s essential to research and prepare the necessary documents before applying.
Colombia Tourist Visa Type V
Colombia’s Type V tourist visa is a single-entry permit that allows foreign nationals to stay in Colombia for up to 90 days for tourism purposes. This visa is typically granted at the Colombian consulate or embassy outside of Colombia. To apply, applicants must provide various documents, including a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, a completed application form, proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay, and a round-trip air ticket. The visa fee varies depending on the applicant’s nationality. Once issued, the Type V visa allows the holder to enter Colombia through a land, air, or sea border and stay for up to 90 days. Extensions are possible, but applicants must leave the country for at least 90 days before reapplying.
Colombia Migrant (M) Visas
Colombia Migrant (M) Visas are temporary residency permits issued to individuals who wish to live and work in Colombia for an extended period. These visas are suitable for professionals, students, retirees, and others who do not qualify for permanent residency but require more time than a tourist visa allows. The application process involves submitting required documents, including proof of income or financial resources, a valid passport, and a completed application form. Once approved, the M Visa allows the holder to legally reside and work in Colombia for up to two years, with the possibility of renewing for additional periods. It is important to note that the specific requirements and application process may vary depending on the individual’s circumstances and the type of M Visa being applied for.
Colombia Resident (R) Visas
Colombia Resident (R) Visas are long-term permits issued to foreigners who wish to reside in Colombia for an extended period. These visas are typically granted to individuals who have strong ties to the country, such as family members, retirees, investors, or those who have been offered employment. The R-1 visa is for retirees, R-2 for spouses and children, R-3 for parents, R-4 for employees, and R-5 for investors. The application process involves submitting required documents, including proof of income, health insurance, and a valid passport. Once approved, the visa allows the holder to live and work in Colombia for up to two years, with the possibility of renewal. It’s important to note that Colombian law requires foreigners to obtain a visa before entering the country, and overstaying a visa can result in fines or deportation.
How to Apply for a Colombia Visa?
To apply for a Colombia visa, follow these steps: First, determine which type of visa you need based on your purpose of travel, such as tourism, business, or work. Next, gather the required documents, including a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, a completed application form, and proof of financial means. If you’re applying for a work visa, you’ll also need a job offer from a Colombian employer and a work contract.
Once you have all the documents, submit your application to the Colombian consulate or embassy in your country of residence. You may need to attend an interview and provide biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photograph. Processing times vary, so allow ample time for your application to be processed. If your application is approved, you’ll receive your visa, which you can then use to enter Colombia.
It’s important to note that visa requirements and procedures can change, so be sure to check the Colombian embassy or consulate website for the most up-to-date information before applying. Additionally, make sure to follow all instructions carefully to avoid delays or denials in your application process.
How Long Does It Take to Process a Colombia Visa Application?
Processing times for Colombia visa applications can vary depending on the type of visa and the embassy or consulate handling the application. Generally, tourist visas can take around 5 business days to be processed, while business visas and work permits can take up to 30 days or more. Applicants are advised to submit their complete application package well in advance of their intended travel date to allow for potential delays. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee in some cases. It’s important to note that these are approximate times and individual processing times may vary. Applicants are encouraged to check with the specific Colombian embassy or consulate for the most current and detailed information on processing times.
Colombia Visa Fees
Colombia visa fees vary depending on the type of visa and the applicant’s nationality. Generally, applicants from certain countries are required to pay higher fees than others. For instance, citizens of the United States, Canada, and the European Schengen Area countries pay a flat fee of around $150 for a tourist visa. Business visas and work visas typically cost more, ranging from $200 to $500. Applicants from other countries should check the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on visa fees. All fees are payable online or at the Colombian consulate or embassy. It is important to note that visa fees are non-refundable, even if the application is denied.
What Is the Duration of a Colombia Visa?
A Colombia visa duration depends on the specific type of visa granted. Tourist visas, also known as Entry and Exit visas, are typically valid for 90 days and can be extended for an additional 90 days. Business visas can range from 180 days to one year, while work visas can last up to two years. Student visas can match the length of the academic program, but not exceed five years. It’s important to note that overstaying a visa can result in fines and potential legal consequences. Always check with the Colombian embassy or consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding visa durations.
Can I Work With a Colombia Visa?
A Colombia visa allows foreigners to work legally in Colombia for a specific employer or for self-employment purposes. There are various types of work visas, including TP-1 (professionals), TP-2 (technical and administrative personnel), TP-3 (artists and sportspeople), and TP-4 (investors), among others. Each visa category has specific requirements, such as a valid job offer, educational qualifications, or a minimum investment amount.
To apply for a work visa, the employer or the applicant must submit the necessary documents to the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Labor. The application process includes paying the required fees, undergoing medical examinations, and obtaining a police clearance certificate. Once approved, the visa is valid for one to two years, depending on the visa category.
It is important to note that working without a valid work visa is illegal and can result in fines, deportation, and future visa denials. Therefore, it is recommended that foreigners planning to work in Colombia consult with a legal expert or the Colombian embassy or consulate in their home country to ensure they follow the correct procedures and meet the requirements for obtaining a work visa.
Eligible countries
- European Union citizens, Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina*, Australia, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bhutan, Bolivia*, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil*, Brunei, Canada, Chile*, Costa Rica, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador*, El Salvador, Fiji, Georgia, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Hong Kong (up to 180 days), Iceland, Indonesia, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Kazakhstan, Liechtenstein, Marshall Islands, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Micronesia, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay*, Peru*, Philippines, Qatar, Russia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Serbia, Singapore, Sovereign Military Order of Malta, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Suriname, Switzerland, Taiwan, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay*, Venezuela*, and Brunei Darussalam (for 14 days)
- Citizens of Cambodia, China, India, Macau (up to 180 days), Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam can enter without a Colombian visa if they already have a short-stay visa or residence permit issued by a Schengen country or the USA.
*Can enter with only their ID card.
These countries’ nationals do not need a visa for transit or short-term stays in Colombia. For other types of visas and requirements, please refer to the article.
Summary
* Colombia is a bio-diverse country with friendly people, beautiful architecture, culture, delicious food, and sunny beaches.
* Nationals of EU countries, Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Fiji, Georgia, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Hong Kong, Iceland, Indonesia, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Kazakhstan, Liechtenstein, Marshall Islands, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Micronesia, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Qatar, Russia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Serbia, Singapore, Sovereign Military Order of Malta, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Suriname, Switzerland, Taiwan, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Venezuela, and Vatican City can enter Colombia without a visa for up to 90 days.
* Those from Cambodia, China, India, Macau, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam can enter without a Colombian visa if they already have a short-stay visa or residence permit issued by a Schengen country or the USA.
* A V – Transit Visa is required for transit through a Colombian airport for more than 24 hours or if you intend to leave the international area of the airport.
* To apply for a Colombia visa, submit a valid passport, passport-size picture, bank statements, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and other required documents. All documents must be in Spanish or translated by a certified translator.
* Colombia offers three main types of visas: Visitor (V) Visa, Migrant (M) Visa, and Resident (R) Visa.
* The Visitor Visa is issued for tourism, airport transit, business, short-term academic exchange programs, medical treatment, inter-corporate transfers, working holiday programs, human rights projects, development cooperation projects, foreign journalists, and digital nomads.
* The Migrant Visa is issued for longer-term stays and includes categories for marriage, work, student, investment, retirement, and refugee visas.
* The Resident Visa is issued to foreigners who have lived in Colombia for five consecutive years, parents of Colombian nationals, foreigners of legal age who are dependents of qualified resident visa holders, and foreigners who have been a spouse or permanent partner of a Colombian national for three years.
* Apply for the Colombia visa through the online application service on the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. Pay the visa processing fee and, if approved, the second fee.
* Once in Colombia, register your stay with Migración Colombia within 15 days of entering the country.
* Processing time for the Colombia visa application is about two to three weeks but can take up to 30 days.
* Colombia Visitor Visas are issued for up to 90 days, while Migrant and Resident Visas are issued for up to three years and five years, respectively.
* Working is not allowed with a Colombia Visitor Visa, but is permitted with a Work Visa, Marriage Visa, and Investment Visa.