Colombian Tourist Visa: Your Complete Guide

Dreaming of exploring the vibrant streets of Medellin, the lush coffee plantations of the Andes, or the pristine beaches of the Caribbean coast? Colombia is a fascinating South American country with it all, but to fully enjoy your adventure, you must understand the Colombian tourist visa process. We will walk you through the requirements, application process, types of visas, and helpful tips to ensure a smooth and successful visa application.

Key Takeaways

• Foreigners can obtain a Colombia Tourist Visa through an online application process.
• The government entity typically takes up to 30 days to respond to your application
• Foreigners must show economic solvency, proof of travel tickets and accommodation, and international health insurance.

Colombia Tourist Visa Overview

Embarking on a journey to Colombia, a country rich in culture, nature, and history, requires proper planning and preparation. As a foreign national, you may need a Colombian visa, depending on your nationality and the Colombian visa policy. It is essential to be aware of the requirements set by the Colombian government for a smooth travel experience.

The good news is that the process of obtaining a Colombia tourist visa, also known as a visitor visa, has been made more convenient through the online application system. This electronic visa system allows eligible applicants to apply for their visa from the comfort of their homes, without the need to visit a Colombian consulate or embassy.

Visa Exempt Countries

Not all travelers require a visa to enter Colombia. Citizens from many countries, including the United States, Canada, and most European nations, can enjoy visa-free entry and stay in Colombia for up to 90 days.

However, if you plan to extend your stay beyond this period, you may request an additional 90-day extension, allowing for 180 days in Colombia without a visa.

Additionally, citizens of Schengen countries and the USA with a valid short-stay visa or residence permit issued by a Schengen country or the USA can also visit Colombia for up to 90 days without a visa.

Here are the full details from the Cancillería:

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

Valid Passport Requirements

To enter Colombia, you must have a valid passport in good condition and at least two blank pages. Your passport should also be valid for at least six months after your travel dates.

Double-check your passport details before your journey to ensure a smooth entry into Colombia as these requirements are critical.

Types of Tourist Visas for Colombia

As you plan your Colombian adventure, get acquainted with the various tourist visas available for visiting this South American gem. The type of visa needed depends on the purpose of your visit, the duration of your stay, and your country of origin.

The most common type of visitor visa for Colombia is the Colombian tourist visa. Each visa type serves a specific purpose and has its own set of requirements.

Visitor (V) Visa

The Visitor (V) Visa is designed for foreign nationals intending to stay in Colombia for a limited duration. Typically issued for a maximum 180 days, this visa can be granted for up to two years in select circumstances. The Visitor (V) Visa allows non-residents to visit Colombia once or multiple times or to remain in the country temporarily.

To obtain a Visitor (V) Visa, you must submit an online application form, provide the required documents, and pay the visa fee. The necessary documents for a Visitor (V) Visa application include a valid passport, a completed application form, a passport-sized photograph, and proof of financial means.

Colombia Tourist Visa Application Process

A successful trip hinges on navigating the Colombia tourist visa application process effectively, which includes understanding the requirements for different Colombian visas. The process involves several steps, including choosing the appropriate type of visa, gathering the required documents, and submitting the Colombia visa application.

Online Application

The Colombia electronic visa, or eVisa, is an entry authorization that can be obtained online by eligible foreign nationals. To apply for a Colombia visa, specifically a tourist visa, complete the application form, pay the required fee, and submit it for approval. Upon approval, the online visa will be sent to your email address.

The Colombian Government entity has 30 days to respond to your application. Therefore it is important to apply for the visa well before your trip.

Required Documents for Colombia Tourist Visa Application

Assembling the required documents for your Colombia tourist visa application is a pivotal step in the process. You’ll need to provide a combination of personal and supporting documents to ensure a successful application. These documents help the Colombian authorities verify your identity, assess your tourist visa eligibility, and determine your visit's purpose.

Ensuring all the documents you submit are up to exactly what the government entity asks for is vital.

Personal Documents

Personal documents are essential for verifying your identity and nationality during the Colombia tourist visa application process. Personal documents can include:

• A Valid passport with at least six months of eligibility
• A copy of the first page of your passport
• 3x4cm Passport Style photo with White background in a Digital Format

For minors, additional documentation, such as original copies of birth certificates or a notarized letter of consent from both parents, is required.

Supporting Documents

In addition to personal documents, you’ll need to submit supporting documents as part of your Colombia tourist visa application. These documents include the following:

• Evidence of health insurance in Colombia for the duration
• Evidence of adequate funds is shown through 6 months of bank statements. The foreigner will need to show that they have at least 11.600.000 Colombian pesos of monthly income.*
• Evidence of accommodation, including hotels or Airbnb.
• Evidence of an entry and exit plane ticket from Colombia
• Signed letters stating the purpose of the trip

*We have seen that if the foreigner doesn't necessarily have monthly recurring income. They can sometimes show the financial ability to support themselves in Colombia through bank statements and be approved.

Providing comprehensive and accurate supporting documents will increase your chances of a successful visa application.

Sponsoring A Visa

If the foreigner cannot show that they have the financial ability to support themselves in Colombia, they may be able to use a sponsor. In the event that they have someone sponsor their trip, the following information will be required.

• Bank statements from the sponsor showing evidence of adequate funds. These are shown through 6 months of bank statements. The foreigner must show that they have at least 11.600.000 Colombian pesos of monthly income.
• A signed letter from the sponsor saying they will cover the foreigner's expenses in Colombia for their entire trip.

Colombia Tourist Visa Fees & Processing Time

The fees for obtaining a Colombia tourist visa include a visa processing fee and a fee upon successful visa application. These fees must be paid via credit or debit card and are non-refundable. The fees for the tourist visa are:

• $54 USD to study the visa application
• $82 USD to receive the visa after it has been accepted.

The processing time for a Colombia tourist visa application can vary, typically taking between two and four weeks, though it may extend to 30 days. The government entity needs to respond to your visa application within 30 days. Thus, planning and submitting your application well in advance to avert any travel plan delays is advisable as applying for the visa with less than 30 days until your date of travel may result in your visa automatically being denied.

Passport Stamp Extensions

If you’re considering extending your stay in Colombia or changing your visa type, familiarizing yourself with the necessary procedures is vital. When entering the country, you will be given a 90-day passport stamp. However, under the tourist visa, you can typically stay in Colombia for up to 180 days per calendar year.

To request an extension of your 90-day stay, the request must be made 7-10 days expiration. This can be done by applying to Migración Colombia, possibly extending up to 90 additional days. To apply for an extension or change your visa type, you must visit the Immigration Authorities (Migración Colombia) office nearest your current residence in Colombia.

Be mindful of the consequences of overstaying your visa, as overstaying can result in fines and even deportation. If you overstay, you may not be able to depart Colombia until the fine is settled. Avoid the hassle and potential penalties by ensuring you comply with the visa requirements and duration of your stay.

Traveling with Minors and Pets

Understanding the regulations and documentation requirements is essential if you’re traveling to Colombia with minors or pets. For minors, you must provide original copies of their birth certificates or a notarized letter of consent from both parents.

When it comes to traveling with pets, a valid health certificate issued by a veterinarian is required, and their owner must accompany them. By adhering to these guidelines and ensuring you have the proper documentation, you’ll ensure a smooth journey for you and your loved ones, whether human or furry friends.

Customs Regulations and Bringing Items into Colombia

As you enter Colombia, staying informed about customs regulations and restrictions on bringing items, including currency and goods, into the country is important. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• The limit for bringing foreign currency into Colombia is US $10,000 or equivalent to other currencies.
• Any cash or other financial instruments worth more than $10,000 USD must be declared.
• The legal source of the funds must be proven.

Regarding goods, there are restrictions on importing plants and animals, as well as firearms and ammunition. However, passengers can bring accompanied and unaccompanied luggage within certain limitations, as outlined in the customs regulations. Familiarize yourself with these regulations to ensure a smooth entry into Colombia and avoid any potential issues at the border.

Summary

In conclusion, obtaining a Colombia tourist visa is crucial in planning your adventure to this captivating South American country. From understanding the different types of tourist visas to navigating the application process and gathering the required documents, being well-prepared is essential for a successful visa application and an unforgettable Colombian experience.

So whether you’re dreaming of exploring the bustling streets of Bogotá, trekking through the Amazon rainforest, or sipping on world-class coffee in the Andean mountains, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the Colombia tourist visa process with ease and confidence. Happy travels!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I stay in Colombia on a tourist visa?

You can stay in Colombia on a tourist visa for up to 180 days in a calendar year.

If you wish to stay longer, you may renew your visa at a Migración Colombia office or leave the country temporarily.

Do Colombian citizens need a visa to visit the US?

Colombian citizens must obtain a valid US B1/B2 Visa before entering the United States.

They must also have a valid passport and maintain updated visa information with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Can I get a Colombia visa online?

Yes, you can get a Colombia visa online. The Colombia eVisa is an electronic visa available through a simple online application process that allows you to apply for travel authorization easily.

What are the passport requirements for entering Colombia?

To enter Colombia, your passport must be valid six months after arrival and have at least two blank pages.

Which countries are exempt from requiring a Colombia tourist visa?

Citizens of the United States, Canada, and most European countries are exempt from requiring a Colombia tourist visa, allowing them to stay in Colombia for up to 90 days.