While travelers from a select few countries can enter Colombia visa-free for short stays, the majority of foreign citizens need a visa for Colombia no matter the duration of the trip or travel purpose.
Does an US citizen need a visa to visit Colombia?
US citizens with valid US passports don’t need a visa prior to traveling to Colombia. When you arrive on Colombian soil, immigration will give you a tourist stamp that lasts for 90 days. If you already have a valid Colombian visa that hasn’t expired, Colombian immigration will allow you to enter Colombia on that particular visa.
What are the Colombian Visa requirements for US citizens?
- A scanned copy of the front page of your passport and the page with your entrance stamp
- A passport style photo with dimensions 3cm x 4cm (width and height)
- A scanned copy of your original degree or certificate citing your educational attainment, with an official apostille certifying it’s validity. ...
Is Columbia a dangerous country?
Colombia is a dangerous country, but many areas offer similar levels of safety as big cities in the United States. While there may be paramilitary groups in the jungle areas, most of them don't strive to cause havoc in the major cities. Ya tu sabes.
Is Columbia a safe place to visit?
Today, Colombia is statistically safe to visit. Colombia has one of the fastest growing tourist markets globally and is outpacing tourism in other Latin American countries. It’s hard to argue with the millions of tourists who visit here and leave totally unaffected by any issues in Colombia.
What countries need visa for Colombia?
Visa requirementsCountryVisa requirementAllowed stayArmeniaeVisa / Visa on arrival120 daysAustraliaVisa requiredAustriaVisa not required90 daysAzerbaijaneVisa30 days138 more rows
How do I get a visa for Colombia?
The steps are as follows:Complete the online Colombia visa application form. ... Select the type of visa you are applying for.Attach an electronic copy of the visa photo.Attach PDF files of all the required documents.Select the Colombian Consulate where you want to submit your application.More items...
Do I need a visa to go to Colombia from UK?
Visas. British nationals can enter Colombia for up to 90 days as a visitor without a visa at the discretion of the Colombian Immigration Officer on arrival. You may need to provide evidence of return or onward travel.
Can I travel to Colombia with US visa?
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.
Can you get visa on arrival in Colombia?
Upon arrival at the Colombian border, visitors with visa exemption will have their passport stamped with a PIP-5 Entry Permit by an immigration control officer. With this stamp, it is permitted to stay up to 90 days.
How much does a Colombian visa cost?
The fees for VISMUL Visa - valid for 90 days, is approx. 81 USD; and the fees for VISMUL - Business Visa - valid for 180 days, is approx. 81 USD. The applicant can enter and exit multiple times during the validity period of Visa.
Is Colombia expensive?
Colombia is one of the cheapest countries to travel through from South America.
Is Colombia safe right now?
Reconsider travel due to crime and terrorism. Exercise increased caution due to civil unrest and kidnapping.
How safe is Colombia?
Crime. Despite improvements in security, crime rates remain high in Colombia. Illegal armed groups and other criminal groups are heavily involved in the drugs trade and serious crime including kidnapping (for ransom and political purposes), money laundering and running extortion and prostitution rackets.
Do US green card holders need visa for Colombia?
A visa is not required for this destination for a stay of up to 90 days. Please keep in mind that while a visa is not required, you must: Hold a passport valid at least six months on entry with one blank visa page. Hold proof of onward/return flights.
Do U.S. citizens need a visa?
The Visa section of this website is all about U.S. visas for foreign citizens to travel to the United States. (Note: U.S. citizens don't need a U.S. visa for travel, but when planning travel abroad may need a visa issued by the embassy of the country they wish to visit.
What should I know before traveling to Colombia?
Everything you need to know before visiting Colombia, a country you might never want to leaveColombia is bigger than you think. ... Domestic flights are affordable and quick. ... Prepare for unpredictable weather. ... A little Spanish will get you a long way. ... You'll notice a strong military presence. ... Don't expect punctuality.More items...•
How long can I stay in Colombia on a tourist visa?
More often than not, the time period is 90 days. If your original permit is due to run out and you want to extend your stay as a tourist that's not a problem. Under Colombian law, you are allowed to remain in Colombia as a tourist for up to 180 days in a calendar year (January 1 to December 31).
How much is a visa from Colombia to USA?
The fee (payable in cash) is the peso equivalent of $100.00 dollars (depending upon the exchange rate), for each application. The receipt is adhesive and contains a barcode which allows it to be attached to the passport. Do not remove the receipt from your passport unless you are traveling outside of Colombia.
Can a US green card holder travel to Colombia?
The visa exemption also applies to Green Card holders, but does not apply to holders of C1 visas issued by the U.S. Holders of U.S. or Schengen visas must ensure their visa is valid for at least 180 days from their arrival date.
Do Irish citizens need a visa for Colombia?
Irish citizens don't need a visa to visit Colombia for periods of up to 90 days. When entering the country, you may need to provide evidence of return or onward travel. Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of six months from the date of entry into Colombia.
Which countries need a visa for Colombia?
While travelers from a select few countries can enter Colombia visa-free for short stays, the majority of foreign citizens need a visa for Colombia...
What is the Colombia eVisa?
The Colombia eVisa is an electronic visa available through a simple online application process which greatly speeds up the protocol of applying for...
How long can I stay in Colombia with the eVisa?
The length of stay permitted in Colombia with an eVisa varies depending on whether the traveler requires a Colombia business visa, tourist visa, or...
What is the validity period of the Colombia eVisa?
An approved Colombia eVisa is issued for a range of periods of validity depending on the applicant’s nationality and the purpose of the travel.
How do I apply for a Colombia eVisa online?
To apply for a Colombia visa online, it is necessary to complete the simple electronic application with basic personal details, passport data, and...
What do I need to submit an application for the Colombia electronic visa?
To submit an application for a Colombia electronic tourist visa, it is necessary to have a valid passport and to supply an image of the passport’s...
How long will my Colombia eVisa take to process?
The standard Colombia visa processing time is within 5 business days, although visa approval may take longer in some cases.
How much does the Colombia online visa cost?
The government online Colombia visa cost varies depending on the nationality of the applicant and the type of visa they require.
Do I need a Colombia eVisa for all my children? Should I include them on my application?
It is necessary to submit a separate Colombia eVisa application for all minors. Those who apply for a Colombia visa on behalf of their children may...
What does "required" mean in Colombia?
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.
How long can you stay in Colombia?
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.
How many payments are required for Colombia evisa?
Colombia eVisa fee must be paid in two payments.
How long is a Schengen visa valid?
US or Schengen visa must be valid for at least 180 days from the day of arrival
What is the visa category for tourists?
The visa category for tourists and visitors is Type-V.
How long does it take to get a visa?
The current visa processing time is 5 business days.
What happens at your first port of entry in Colombia?
At your first port of entry in Colombia, you will pass through immigration and customs.
What type of visa is needed for Colombia?
There are three main types of visas for Colombia: Colombia Visitor Visa (V), also referred to as a Tourist Visa. Colombia Migrant Visa (M) Colombia Resident Visa (R) These types of visas have their own sub-categories, depending on the purpose of travel.
How to Apply for a Colombia Visa?
You have to submit your application for the Colombia visa through the online application service available on the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs ( here ). Enter your name, nationality and passport number to start the application process. Make sure you finish the application in 30 minutes or the session will expire. The steps are as follows:
How Long Does It Take to Process a Colombia Visa Application?
The Colombia visa application is processed in about 5 working days but can take as long as 30 days if there are any irregularities or missing documents. Make sure to apply sufficiently in advance of the time you intend to travel.
What Is the Duration of a Colombia Visa?
The duration of a Colombia visa depends on the type of visa you have as well on the decision of the Consular or Immigration Authorities. As such:
Can I Extend a Colombia Visa?
You can apply for an extension of your Colombian Visa at the Immigration Authorities ( Migración Colombia) nearest to where you are staying in Colombia. There are Immigration centres in most major cities.
What is a Colombian visa?
The Visitor (V) Visa for Colombia, also referred to as a Colombian Tourist Visa, is issued to foreigners who will stay in Colombia for a short period of time. It is issued for the following purposes:
How long can a Colombian citizen stay in the country?
The Migrant Colombia Visa can be issued for a maximum of three years and is renewable.
Why was Colombia denied an evisa?
The most common reason for the denial of a Colombia eVisa application is that the information on the form contained small errors.
What is an evisa in Colombia?
A Colombia eVisa may be issued for a variety of travel purposes, as a Colombian tourist visa, business visa, and as a visa to participate in events, among a range of other visa types.
Is Colombia open to international travelers?
Colombia is now open to visitors and international travelers, with only one additional require ment besides a visa. All passengers must complete and submit a “Check Mig” form no more than 24 hours before the flight to the country departs.
How long can US citizens stay in Colombia?
Although US citizens are allowed up to 90 days in Colombia for their first stay, the duration is at the discretion of the immigration officer; asking for the maximum and providing proof of ongoing travel within that timeframe is a good way to make the most of your visa.
How many offices does Travel Visa Pro have?
Rather than waiting abroad without any form of international ID, why not take care of that passport well in advance? Travel Visa Pro has nine offices across the US with staff trained in all types of visa and passport applications. In addition, there are dozens of pick up and drop off locations offering limited service in smaller areas. If you need a passport in a hurry – as little as eight hours in some cases – or assistance with your visa to Colombia, contact your nearest Travel Visa Pro today.
Do US citizens need a passport to travel to Colombia?
All US citizens must have a US passport book valid at their time of entry into Colombia with one blank page for a visa stamp. No tourist visa applications are required to be submitted for stays shorter than 90 days, but all visitors may be required to present vaccination records for yellow fever if they passed through Brazil prior to their stay in Colombia.
Does Colombia accept US citizens?
Other Colombia Visa Requirements for US Citizens. Surprisingly, the Embassy of Colo mbia in Washington DC does not accept visa applications, and refers travelers to local consulates in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Orlando, Newark, New York, San Francisco, and San Juan.
Can US citizens travel to Colombia?
Colombia visa requirements for US citizens. Though traveling overland to Colombia remains a high-risk activity due to the Darién Gap, flying into Bogota from the US or adding any area in Colombia as part of your South American travel itinerary is quickly becoming more popular for US citizens. With that in mind, what are ...
How to live in Colombia as an expat?
This is the route many expats take if they want to make a stronger commitment to living in Colombia from the get-go. A capital investment of at least $155,400 (based on current exchange rates) in either the purchase of property or creation of a Colombian company is all you need to qualify. The resident visa has no expiration date, but you must go to Migracion every five years to obtain a new cédula. With a resident visa you may work for a Colombian company, and have all the rights of a Colombian national, except for the right to vote in the Presidential election. That requires citizenship. Maintaining your resident visa is quite simple, just visit Colombia for at least one day every two years.
What documents are needed for a visa?
All visas require you to submit the following documents with your application package: Completed visa application form (note that there are no health-related questions on the application form for any of the visas, nor will you have to undergo a criminal background check)
What is pensionado visa?
The pensionado category applies to those who receive Social Security benefits. If you receive at least $717 per month (based on current exchange rates) in benefits, you can apply for this type of visa. You must provide official proof of your Social Security income. The U.S. Embassy will assist you by issuing a document stating the amount of benefit that you receive.
How much does a visa cost?
Visa Costs. Visas range in price from $50 to $500, depending on which one you choose. Additionally, all visas require you to pay a $52 application fee. If you apply online, you can pay using a MasterCard, Visa, Cirrus, or a Plus card.
What is a business owner in Colombia?
The business owner category is for those who are an owner or co-owner of a Colombian company. To qualify for this visa, you must register a capital investment in the name of the company of at least $25,000 (based on current exchange rates). You are required to have a personal interview with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and that a Colombian accountant verifies the business’ income. These stricter regulations were put into place because, in the past, visa applicants opened a business for the purpose of obtaining a visa, but never actually conducted any business.
How much is Colombia's exit tax?
If you stay in Colombia for more than 60 days, or are a resident, you must pay an exit tax of COP $80,000 ($26) when you leave. Officials only apply this tax at international airports and cruise terminals, so if you leave Colombia at a land border, you won’t have to pay. If you stay in Colombia for less than 60 days, and leave by air, ...
Do expats need blood tests?
Some expats report you now don’t need a blood test if you know your blood type. But be aware, you need to be absolutely sure about your blood type, as if you are unconscious, they use your blood type on your cédula for any medical care.
Before traveling
Citizens of certain countries need to present a tourist visa to gain entry. These can be processed at the Colombian embassies and consulates abroad. You can check if you need a visa or not in the link below.
Other types of visas
Remember, other types of visas may be required for persons traveling to Colombia for reasons other than tourism. If this is your case, you can check the requirements for study visas at https://www.cancilleria.gov.co/tramites_servicios/visa/m-estudiantes .
Entering Colombia
For entry into Colombia, you should bear certain important recommendations in mind. In this section, you'll find information on bringing in luggage, regulations regarding entry with foreign currency and short-term imports.
Airport tax
This is the fee charged to passengers for use of the airport facilities. It is mandatory for passengers to pay this fee for use of both chartered and non-chartered commercial airline services. For further information, please consult the Airport Services Authority. Telephones: + 57 (1) 425 1000, + 57 (1) 425 1000, + 57 (1) 425 1000 ext.
Luggage
When entering Colombia, passengers can bring two types of luggage: accompanied luggage and unaccompanied luggage .
Accompanied luggage
This is the luggage that visitors bring with them when entering the country. This can be made up of personal effects and permitted items.
Unaccompanied luggage
This is luggage that enters the country before or after the visitor's arrival. This type must be labeled with their name.
Which countries require passports for 4 months?
Countries requiring passports valid for at least 4 months on arrival include Micronesia and Zambia. Countries requiring passports with a validity of at least 3 months beyond the date of intended departure include Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Nauru, Moldova and New Zealand.
How long do you have to have a passport to enter Bermuda?
Bermuda requires passports to be valid for at least 45 days upon entry.
Do countries have restrictions on foreigners?
Many countries have entry restrictions on foreigners that go beyond the common requirement of having either a valid visa or a visa exemption. Such restrictions may be health related or impose additional documentation requirements on certain classes of people for diplomatic or political purposes.
Is Colombia a visa free country?
As of 1 February 2021, Colombian citizens had visa-free or visa on arrival access to 128 countries and territories ranking the Colombian passport 42nd in terms of travel freedom according to ...
Do you need a photo to enter a country?
Many countries also require a photo be taken of people entering the country. The United States, which does not fully implement exit control formalities at its land frontiers (although long mandated by domestic legislation), intends to implement facial recognition for passengers departing from international airports to identify people who overstay their visa.
Can Colombians work in Bolivia?
Entry is allowed with a valid Colombian identity card. Colombians can live and work legally in Bolivia under the Mercosur (and Associated Members) immigration agreement with no requirement other than being a citizen at birth or a naturalized citizen for over 5 years, and passing a background check.
Is Colombia a member of the Mercosur?
Colombia is an associated member of Mercosur. As such, its citizens enjoy unlimited access to any of the full members ( Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay) and other associated members ( Bolivia, Ecuador and Peru) with the right to residence and work, with no requirement other than nationality.
How to get a replacement passport in Colombia?
Lost or Stolen Passport: If your U.S. passport is lost or stolen in Colombia, you must obtain a new one before departing the country. You must then present the new passport, along with a police report describing the loss or theft, to a Migración Colombia office. Information about obtaining a replacement passport in Colombia is available on the U.S. Embassy Bogota’s website. The Embassy in Bogota or the U.S. Consular Agency in Barranquilla will provide guidance on contacting Migración Colombia when you apply for your replacement passport.
Where do you sign documents in Colombia?
If the documents originated in the United States, they must first be translated into Spanish and then signed in front of a Colombian consul at a Colombian consulate. Then, upon arrival in Colombia, the documents must be presented to the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for certification of the consul’s signature.
Do you need a notary in Colombia?
If the documents originated in Colombia and are written in Spanish, only notarization by a Colombian notary is required . For documents originating in countries other than the United States or Colombia, please inquire with the Colombian Embassy serving that country.
Can a child travel to Colombia without parents consent?
In cases where the absent parent refuses or is unable to provide consent, the other parent can request assistance from the Colombian child protective service, Instituto Colombiano de Bienestar Familiar (ICBF). In appropriate cases, ICBF will investigate and may issue a document that will allow the child to travel without both parents’ consent. This process may take a significant amount of time and is not within the control of the U.S. government.
Can you bring a gun into Colombia?
Colombian law prohibits tourists and business travelers from bringing firearms into Colombia. Illegal importation or possession of firearms may result in incarceration.
Does Colombia have a drug smuggling program?
Colombia employs strict screening procedures for detecting 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, and travelers who do not speak Spanish may have difficulty understanding what is asked of them. Please refer to the section on Criminal Penalties for further information on the strict enforcement of Colombia’s drug laws.
Do you need a visa to visit Colombia?
U.S. citizens traveling to Colombia do not need a Colombian visa for a tourist stay of 90 days or less. Travelers entering Colombia are sometimes asked to present evidence of return or onward travel, usually in the form of a plane ticket.
Colombia Visa Requirements by Nationality
- Minimum passport validity required to enter Colombia
Passport must be valid for at least 6 months at the time of entering Colombia — - Visa EXEMPT nationalities
1. Maximum stay allowed 90 days each entry 2. Can be extended for an additional 90 days online 3. Maximum stay allowed 180 days in a calendar year 1. Albania 2. Andorra 3. Antigua and Barbuda 4. Argentina 5. Australia 6. Austria 7. Azerbaijan 8. Bahamas 9. Barbados 10. Belgium 1…
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 Affairswebsite. Colombia tourist visa must be applied online. An eVisa is issued and sent to your email. You must print and present this eVi…
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 ma… - 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 proc…
Summary
- 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.
Basic Visa Requirements For Colombia
Safety Concerns in Colombia
- Travel advisories to Colombia through the US Department of State are not unheard of, and any US citizen traveling to the area should be aware of the dangers they may face in transit or once in the country. Overland crossings through Panama, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Peru, while legal for US citizens, have been known to be targeted by thieves, with the first in particular not advisable due …
Other Colombia Visa Requirements For Us Citizens
- Surprisingly, the Embassy of Colombia in Washington DC does not accept visa applications, and refers travelers to local consulates in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Orlando, Newark, New York, San Francisco, and San Juan. These consulates will accept applications for visas related to work, business, and residency. Although US citizens are allowe…
Get Your Passport in Order For Your Trip to Colombia
- If a big South America trip is part of your plan this year, don’t wait until you’re down in Bogota to check your passport expiration date or the visa requirements for different countries. If your passport will expire when you’re out of the US, applications go through the nearest US embassy or consulate. They can be expedited, but are subject to the workflow of the staff. Rather than waiti…