Colombia Visa Policy

There are three main types of Colombia visas:

1. Colombia Visitor Visa (Short-term Tourist Visa)
2. Colombia Migrant (Long-term) Visa
3. Colombia Resident Visa

You can realize your planned trip to Colombia by obtaining a Colombia visa. Reasons to apply for this visa can be tourism, visiting family or friends, business trips, short-term education, exchange programs, and many other non-permanent nuances. Foreign nationals can stay in Colombia maximum of 90 days with temporary (tourism, business, and other short-term purposes) visas.

If you want to stay in Colombia for a longer period for some reason (such as study, employment, etc.) or you can also apply for a Colombia long-term (residence) visas.

Colombia Short-term Visa

You can apply for short-term visas for realizing your temporary travel to Colombia. Reasons to apply for this type of visa can be tourism, visiting family or friends, business trips, short-term education, exchange programs, short-term work, and many other non-permanent nuances. You can check all the required documents for each type of visa application, visa fees, processing time, and where to apply for a visa below.

Colombia Tourist Visa

Colombia Tourist Visa is issued for applicants intending to visit Colombia for tourism and sightseeing. You can apply for a Colombia Tourist visa in order to realize your tourist activities.

Required Documents for Colombia Tourist Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English or Spanish and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.
• 3.5x4.5 size

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous visas
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

7. Travel Itinerary 

• Flight reservation
• Valid (existing) hotel/accommodation booking/reservation with the full address (name, street, city, zip code, contact information, booking ref.)

8. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation)

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

9. Proof of Financial Means

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

10. For Minors:

• Copy and English or Spanish translation of either birth certificate/proof of adoption/custody decree if parents are divorced/death certificate of parent
• Letter of consent from parent/s or legal guardian/s, if traveling unaccompanied

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Colombia Tourist Visa

The average processing time for a Colombia Tourist visa is 1-10 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Colombia Tourist Visa Fee

You have to pay two different fees when you apply for a Colombia visa: the visa processing fee and then another fee if the visa application is successful

1. The Colombia visa fee: The visa cost changes depending on your country of residence:

• If applying from Cuba or a European country: 40 EUR
• If applying from within Colombia or from a non-European country: 52 USD

2. Second Colombia visa fee (only if you receive the visa): Changes depending on your country of residence and the type of visa you are applying for.

Additionally, you may also need to pay other Administrative fees such as the Visa Application Center fee, courier service fee, etc., depending on the country and location of your documents' submission.

Where to Apply for Colombia Tourist Visa?

You will apply for a Colombia Tourist visa in Colombia visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Colombia Business/Congress/Trade Fair Visit Visa

A Colombia Business visa gives you the authorization to enter Colombia and stay here for a maximum period of your visa validity, as permitted. It permits its holder to engage in business-related activities such as attending meetings or conferences, conducting or attending the training, conducting internal audits, installing equipment, or performing other temporary services for a client, local affiliate, or branch office.

Under the Business visa category, other following cases would be applicable:

• Business matters / Meetings / Negotiation / Trainings
• Conference/Congress/Exhibition
• Scientific/Research events
• Journalists
• Official delegations

Required Documents for Colombia Business Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English or Spanish and signed and dated by the applicant himself 

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.
• 3.5x4.5 size

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous visas
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

7. Travel Itinerary

• Flight reservation
• Valid (existing) hotel/accommodation booking/reservation with the full address (name, street, city, zip code, contact information, booking ref.)

8. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation)

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

9. Proof of Financial Means

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

10. Documents Reflecting the Nature of the Business Trip and the Existence of Business Relations

• Invitation letter from company/authority in Colombia with full address, stating the purpose and duration of the business trip and/or
• Information on event/congress/trade fair being visited in Colombia with details of organizer/host, with full address in Colombia, duration of the event, and reason to take part (e.g., visitor ticket for trade fair).
  • If applicable, including information about who covers the expenses of the business trip in Colombia
• Only applicable if fair exhibitor: Information on trade fair by submitting exhibitor ticket/exhibitor invoice/confirmation letter reflecting status as trade fair exhibitor.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Colombia Business Visa

The average processing time for a Colombia Business visa is 1-10 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Colombia Business Visa Fee

You have to pay two different fees when you apply for a Colombia visa: the visa processing fee and then another fee if the visa application is successful:

1. The Colombia visa fee: The visa cost changes depending on your country of residence:

If applying from Cuba or a European country: 40 EUR

If applying from within Colombia or from a non-European country: 52 USD

2. Second Colombia visa fee (only if you receive the visa): Changes depending on your country of residence and the type of visa you are applying for.

Additionally, you may also need to pay other Administrative fees such as the Visa Application Center fee, courier service fee, etc., depending on the country and location of your documents' submission.

Where to Apply for Colombia Business Visa?

You will apply for a Colombia Business visa in Colombia visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Colombia Cultural, Scientific, Sports Events Visa

The Colombia Cultural/Scientific/Sports Visa enables you to enter Colombia for cultural, scientific, or sports purposes, such as attending cultural events.

Required Documents for Colombia Cultural Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English or Spanish and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.
• 3.5x4.5 size

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous visas
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

7. Travel Itinerary

• Flight reservation
• Valid (existing) hotel/accommodation booking/reservation with the full address (name, street, city, zip code, contact information, booking ref.)  

8. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation)

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

9. Proof of Financial Means

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

10. Documents Reflecting the Nature / Purpose of the Journey and Stay of Artist / Member of Cultural / Sports Association in Colombia: Artist/Athlete Member of Cultural / Sports Association in Your Country Travels to A Cultural / Sports Event Organized In Cooperation with a Colombia Cultural/Sports Association

• Letter of Local Cultural Association / Sports Association stating timeframe and schedule of cultural event/sports camp with details of organizer/host with full address in Colombia, as well as the purpose of cultural camp/event and information who covers costs (accommodation, travel expenses).
• If the applicant is under the age of 18, signed “letter of no objection” of school/university confirming participation in cultural / sports event.

11. For Minors:

• Copy and English or Spanish translation of either birth certificate/proof of adoption/custody decree if parents are divorced/death certificate of parent
• Letter of consent from parent/s or legal guardian/s, if traveling unaccompanied

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Colombia Cultural Visa

The average processing time for a Colombia Cultural visa is 1-10 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Colombia Cultural Visa Fee

You have to pay two different fees when you apply for a Colombia visa: the visa processing fee and then another fee if the visa application is successful:

1. The Colombia visa fee: The visa cost changes depending on your country of residence:

If applying from Cuba or a European country: 40 EUR

If applying from within Colombia or from a non-European country: 52 USD

2. Second Colombia visa fee (only if you receive the visa): Changes depending on your country of residence and the type of visa you are applying for.

Additionally, you may also need to pay other Administrative fees such as the Visa Application center fee, courier service fee, etc., depending on the country and location of your documents' submission.

Where to Apply for Colombia Cultural Visa?

You will apply for a Colombia Cultural visa in Colombia visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Colombia Visiting Family and Friends Visa

A short stay family/friend visit visa is a type of Tourist visa, and it allows you to travel to Colombia for visiting your family or friends who legally residing in Colombia for up to the expiration date of your visa validity.

Required Documents for Colombia Family Visit Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English or Spanish and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.
• 3.5x4.5 size

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous visas
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

7. Travel Itinerary 

• Flight reservation
• Valid (existing) hotel/accommodation booking/reservation with the full address (name, street, city, zip code, contact information, booking ref.)

8. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation)

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

9. Proof of Financial Means

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

10. Proof of Visit/Accommodation:

• Letter of invitation
  • Must be official. A scanned version is accepted at the time of application, but it is advisable to send the original by mail as the original will be required at the border.
• Documents proving kinship
• A document confirming the status of the inviting person in Colombia
• If the invitee stays at the inviting person’s home, documents about the house (contract, payment for utilities, etc.)

11. For Minors:

• Copy and English or Spanish translation of either birth certificate/proof of adoption/custody decree if parents are divorced/death certificate of parent
• Letter of consent from parent/s or legal guardian/s, if traveling unaccompanied

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Colombia Family Visit Visa

The average processing time for a Colombia Family Visit visa is 1-10 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Colombia Family Visit Visa Fee

You have to pay two different fees when you apply for a Colombia visa: the visa processing fee and then another fee if the visa application is successful:

1. The Colombia visa fee: The visa cost changes depending on your country of residence:

If applying from Cuba or a European country: 40 EUR

If applying from within Colombia or from a non-European country: 52 USD

2. Second Colombia visa fee (only if you receive the visa): Changes depending on your country of residence and the type of visa you are applying for.

Additionally, you may also need to pay other Administrative fees such as the Visa Application center fee, courier service fee, etc., depending on the country and location of your documents' submission.

Where to Apply for Colombia Family Visit Visa?

You will apply for a Colombia Family Visit visa in Colombia visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Colombia Study (Short-term) Visa

A Colombia Study visa is granted to you to undertake trips to Colombia for study or educational training, which requires staying in Colombia temporarily.

Required Documents for Colombia Study (Short-term) Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English or Spanish and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.
• 3.5x4.5 size

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous visas
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

7. Travel Itinerary 

• Flight reservation
• Accommodation (if not indicated in the invitation) - Confirmed accommodation (hotel, hostel, apartment) reservation mentioning applicant’s name, dates, and accommodation address details.

8. Proof of Visit

• Original Letter of Acceptance by the Education Institution, including details of the course, duration, and fees with proof of payment.

9. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation), if any

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

10. Proof of Financial Means

       In the case of scholarship:

• Confirmation of receipt of a grant or scholarship from the relevant fund of Colombia

       In the case of self-funding:

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

       In the case of sponsorship:

• Latest 3 months current account bank statement of a sponsor (showing sponsor’s name, an end balance, and date of issue).
• Sponsorship letter, copy of the first page of the sponsor’s passport with the data.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Colombia Study (Short-term) Visa

The average processing time for a Colombia Study (Short-term) visa is 1-10 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Colombia Study (Short-term) Visa Fee

You have to pay two different fees when you apply for a Colombia visa: the visa processing fee and then another fee if the visa application is successful:

1. The Colombia visa fee: The visa cost changes depending on your country of residence:

If applying from Cuba or a European country: 40 EUR

If applying from within Colombia or from a non-European country: 52 USD

2. Second Colombia visa fee (only if you receive the visa): Changes depending on your country of residence and the type of visa you are applying for.

Additionally, you may also need to pay other Administrative fees such as the Visa Application center fee, courier service fee, etc., depending on the country and location of your documents' submission.

Where to Apply for Colombia Study (Short-term) Visa?

You will apply for a Colombia Study (Short-term) visa in Colombia visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Colombia Work (Short-term) Visa

A Colombia work visa is granted to you to undertake trips to Colombia for short-term work activities, which requires staying in Colombia temporarily.

Required Documents for Colombia Work (Short-term) Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English or Spanish and signed and dated by the applicant himself 

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.
• 3.5x4.5 size

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous visas
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

7. Travel Itinerary 

• Flight reservation
• Accommodation (if not indicated in the invitation) - Confirmed accommodation (hotel, hostel, apartment) reservation mentioning applicant’s name, dates, and accommodation address details.

8. Proof of Visit

• Invitation from your business partner in Colombia

9. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation), if any

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

10. Proof of Financial Means

        In the case of self-funding:

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

       In the case of sponsorship:

• Latest 3 months current account bank statement of a sponsor (showing sponsor’s name, an end balance, and date of issue).
• Sponsorship letter, copy of the first page of the sponsor’s passport with the data.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Colombia Work (Short-term) Visa

The average processing time for a Colombia Work (Short-term) visa is 1-10 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Colombia Work (Short-term) Visa Fee

You have to pay two different fees when you apply for a Colombia visa: the visa processing fee and then another fee if the visa application is successful:

1. The Colombia visa fee: The visa cost changes depending on your country of residence:

If applying from Cuba or a European country: 40 EUR

If applying from within Colombia or from a non-European country: 52 USD

2. Second Colombia visa fee (only if you receive the visa): Changes depending on your country of residence and the type of visa you are applying for.

Additionally, you may also need to pay other Administrative fees such as the Visa Application center fee, courier service fee, etc., depending on the country and location of your documents' submission.

Where to Apply for Colombia Work (Short-term) Visa?

You will apply for a Colombia Work (Short-term) visa in Colombia visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

What is an Airport Transit Visa?

Transit without a visa in Colombia is permissible for travelers continuing their trip towards a third country within 24 hours by the same or first connecting plane, provided they have tickets with reserved seats and other necessary papers.

Transit visas are valid for 48 hours.

Required Documents for Colombia Transit Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English or Spanish and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your transiting through Colombia.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.
• 3.5x4.5 size

4. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your transiting through Colombia.

5. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous visas
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

6. Travel Itinerary 

• Flight reservations for the entire trip

7. Proof of Financial Means

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

8. For Minors:

• Copy and English or Spanish translation of either birth certificate/proof of adoption/custody decree if parents are divorced/death certificate of parent
• Letter of consent from parent/s or legal guardian/s, if traveling unaccompanied

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Colombia Transit Visa

The average processing time for a Colombia Transit visa is 1-10 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Colombia Transit Visa Fee

You have to pay two different fees when you apply for a Colombia visa: the visa processing fee and then another fee if the visa application is successful:

1. The Colombia visa fee: The visa cost changes depending on your country of residence:

If applying from Cuba or a European country: 40 EUR

If applying from within Colombia or from a non-European country: 52 USD

2. Second Colombia visa fee (only if you receive the visa): Changes depending on your country of residence and the type of visa you are applying for.

Additionally, you may also need to pay other Administrative fees such as the Visa Application center fee, courier service fee, etc., depending on the country and location of your documents' submission.

Where to Apply for Colombia Transit Visa?

You will apply for Colombia Transit Visa in Colombia visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Colombia Long-term Visa

Even if your country is exempt from visa requirements, if you intend to stay longer in Colombia, you will need to apply for a long-stay visa from your home country before coming to Colombia.

The Colombian Migrant Visa is given to foreigners who wish to live in Colombia for a longer period of time or to have temporary or permanent residence established. The Migrant Colombia Visa is permanent and can be issued for a maximum period of three years.

The long-term visa grants entry to Colombia on the basis that you will be applying for a residence permit. It enables you to enter Colombia as a potential resident and stay while you apply for residency.

Colombia Employment (Long-term) Visa

This visa is intended to permit foreign nationals to obtain a long-term visa, allowing them to stay in Colombia for a longer period. This visa applies to those who want to work within the legal frame of employment upon taking an employment permit and the work permit as per appointed procedure from competent regional authorities.

Required Documents for Colombia Employment (Long-term) Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English or Spanish and signed and dated by the applicant himself 

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.
• 3.5x4.5 size

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous visas/ Colombia resident permit

7. Original Employment Letter from the Applicant's Employer in Colombia

• On the official company paper with stamp and signature, date and clearly mentioning: full address and contact details of the company, the name, and position of the countersigning officer, details regarding the employment of the applicant (e.g., position, salary, estimated duration), details regarding additional conditions of employment (e.g., accommodation, transport, living expenses).

8.  In Case of International Transfer of the Employee:

• A letter from the current employer confirming the transfer and approving the leave/absence of the applicant

9. Curriculum Vitae (CV) of Professional Career, Specifying the Certificates, Diplomas, and Qualifications You Have Obtained

10. Proof of Accommodation

• Accommodation (if not indicated in the invitation or contract) - Confirmed accommodation (hotel, hostel, apartment) reservation mentioning applicant’s name, dates, and accommodation address details.

11. Medical Certificate

• A document issued by a legally known physician states that you are not suffering from any disease or that you may have a serious public health impact.

12. Cover Letter

• It should contain details of your travel to Colombia (purpose of your travel, your tour plan, etc.)

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Colombia Employment (Long-term) Visa

The average processing time for a Colombia Employment (Long-term) visa is 3-20 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Colombia Employment (Long-term) Visa Fee

You have to pay two different fees when you apply for a Colombia visa: the visa processing fee and then another fee if the visa application is successful:

1. The Colombia visa fee: The visa cost changes depending on your country of residence:

If applying from Cuba or a European country: 40 EUR

If applying from within Colombia or from a non-European country: 52 USD

2. Second Colombia visa fee (only if you receive the visa): Changes depending on your country of residence and the type of visa you are applying for.

Additionally, you may also need to pay other Administrative fees such as the Visa Application center fee, courier service fee, etc., depending on the country and location of your documents' submission.

Where to Apply for Colombia Employment (Long-term) Visa?

You will apply for a Colombia Employment (Long-term) visa in Colombia visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Colombia Study (Long-Term) Visa

This visa is intended to permit foreign nationals to obtain a long-term visa, allowing them to stay in Colombia for a longer period. This visa applies to those who are admitted to the state college or state university in Colombia.

Required Documents for Colombia Study (Long-term) Visa

1. Application Form

• Fully completed in English or Spanish and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos        

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.
• 3.5x4.5 size

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous visas/ Colombia resident permit

7. Details from Your University in Colombia:

       a) Confirmed University Admission

• Admission letter issued by an educational institution (school/college/university) accredited in Colombia
  • Must state language of instruction
  • Must contain the start and end dates of the course
• Those in full-time education should submit a letter from their education establishment, clearly indicating the course of studies being followed.
• Letter from the Institute undertaking the return of the student to the country of residence upon completion of the study.

       b) Confirmed Language Course with Conditional University Admission

• Receipt/confirmation of language course payment in advance
• Proof of conditional university admission or confirmation of admission as an applicant or detailed communication with the University for a concrete subject of study

8. Documents Attesting Previous Education (Originals Should Be Presented at the Counter):

• Higher secondary certificate - if the applicant applies for a visa on the basis of a university certificate on admission to the first year of studies
• In a preparatory course, one must submit the higher secondary certificate legalized/attested/apostilled by the MEA/MFA.

      In the case of student exchange:

• The original certificate from the university confirming that the applicant is a student.
• Copy of the agreement/official information from the universities regarding the student exchange.
• Invitation from Colombian university.

9. Knowledge of Language, for Cases of Confirmed University Admission and Confirmed Admission to a Preparation Course for University

• Proof of language proficiency in English (TOEFL/IELTS), if the course is taught in English

10. Proof of Accommodation in Colombia

• Document confirming the availability in Colombia of appropriate accommodation for the intended period of stay (documents shall contain information about the cost of living; the costs for a full period or monthly payment must be indicated)

11. Documents Confirming the Sufficient Financial Resources (of Applicant or Sponsor)

• Traveler’s cheque
• Original bank statement for the past 3 months
• Certificate of the amount of the credit card limit issued by the bank (any bank located in Colombia or another country is allowed)
• A certificate of availability of money in a bank or a cooperative savings and loan association located on the territory of the Republic of Colombia (it cannot be a bank located in your country)
• A document confirming granting of a national or foreign scholarship
• A certificate of employment with a monthly salary statement

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Colombia Study (Long-term) Visa

The average processing time for a Colombia Study (Long-term) visa is 3-20 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Colombia Study (Long-term) Visa Fee

You have to pay two different fees when you apply for a Colombia visa: the visa processing fee and then another fee if the visa application is successful:

1. The Colombia visa fee: The visa cost changes depending on your country of residence:

If applying from Cuba or a European country: 40 EUR

If applying from within Colombia or from a non-European country: 52 USD

2. Second Colombia visa fee (only if you receive the visa): Changes depending on your country of residence and the type of visa you are applying for.

Additionally, you may also need to pay other Administrative fees such as the Visa Application Center fee, courier service fee, etc., depending on the country and location of your documents' submission.

Where to Apply for Colombia Study (Long-term) Visa?

You will apply for a Colombia Study (Long-term) visa in Colombia visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Colombia Family Reunion Visa

This visa is intended to permit foreign nationals to obtain a long-term visa, allowing them to stay in Colombia for a longer period. This visa applies to family members of Colombia nationals and wishing to obtain a permit for long-term residence in Colombia.

Required Documents for Colombia Family Reunion Visa

1. Application Form

• Fully completed in English or Spanish and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame
• 3.5x4.5 size

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from Colombia.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous visas/ Colombia resident permit

7. Details of Spouse

• Passport copy
• Spouses of foreign nationals have to submit a copy of their partner's residence permit for Colombia.
• Certificate of residence of the spouse living in Colombia, not older than 6 months

8. Marriage Certificate

       a) Colombia Marriage Certificate:

• Colombia certificate of marriage, along with certified copies.

       b) Foreign Marriage Certificate:

• Foreign documents or certificates are often only recognized by the authorities of a state if their authenticity and evidentiary value has been determined by a special procedure.

9. Proof of Accommodation in Colombia

• Copy of lease certificate of an apartment in Colombia or title deed of owned property, if the partner is already residing in Colombia.
• If the host provides accommodation – document indicating the right of ownership/right to use (e.g., rental agreement) clearly allowing to lodge guests at this location.

10. Proof of Sufficient Means of Substance

• Copy of employment certificate of the foreign spouse who intends to live in Colombia
• Salary slips from the past three months if the partner is living in Colombia.

     In the case of self-funding:

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

      In the case of sponsorship:

• Latest 3 months current account bank statement of a sponsor (showing sponsor’s name, an end balance, and date of issue).
• Sponsorship letter, copy of the first page of the sponsor’s passport with the data.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for Colombia Family Reunion Visa

The average processing time for a Colombia Family Reunion Long-term visa is 3-20 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

Colombia Family Reunion Visa Fee

You have to pay two different fees when you apply for a Colombia visa: the visa processing fee and then another fee if the visa application is successful:

1. The Colombia visa fee: The visa cost changes depending on your country of residence:

If applying from Cuba or a European country: 40 EUR

If applying from within Colombia or from a non-European country: 52 USD

2. Second Colombia visa fee (only if you receive the visa): Changes depending on your country of residence and the type of visa you are applying for.

Additionally, you may also need to pay other Administrative fees such as the Visa Application Center fee, courier service fee, etc., depending on the country and location of your documents' submission.

Where to Apply for Colombia Family Reunion Visa?

You will apply for a Colombia Family Reunion visa in Colombia visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

The Colombia Residence Visa is given to foreign nationals who meet one of the following requirements:

• You have been on a continuous Migrant Visa for at least four years.
• You've got a child in Colombia.
• You are reclaiming your nationality from Colombia. If you have previously given up your Colombian citizenship, you can, if you wish to return, apply for a Colombian Resident Visa.
• In Colombia, you invest a huge amount of money.