Copy of your passport
The passport copy must include your last Colombian entry stamp if you are already in the country at the time of application.
Transit Visa
Colombian Transit Visa
We have been advising foreign nationals on how to visit, live, and invest in Colombia for over a decade. We can advise you on how to get your Colombian Transit Visa and take the stress of the application process away.
About the Transit Visa
The essentials of the Colombian Transit Visa
Who is it for?
Individuals who are not from a passport-exempt country and have a layover in Colombia.
How long does it last?
The visa can be granted for up to 30 days, but you can only spend less than 24 hours in the airport.
Requirements
Colombian Transit Visa requirements
These are the base documents required to apply for a Colombian Transit Visa. Cancillería may request additional documentation depending on your case.
3×4 passport-style photo
Digital format, plain white background, taken within the last 6 months.
Plane tickets entering and exiting Colombia
Your departing ticket must be less than 24 hours after your arrival ticket. Both tickets confirmed and paid.
Proof you can enter your onward destination
You need to demonstrate you are eligible to enter the country you are traveling to after your Colombian layover — usually a valid visa for that destination when one is required.
Our Process
How we get you a Colombian Transit Visa
We have helped thousands of travelers and migrants obtain a Colombian visa — a clear, step-by-step process that is organized and stress-free.
1
Meet with us
We meet with you to understand your itinerary and confirm the transit visa is the right route. In this meeting we answer any questions you have about the process, timeline, and documentation.
2
Gather documentation
We help you assemble every document Cancillería requires — the passport copy, photo, confirmed tickets, and onward-destination proof — to Colombian standards, so the file is complete at submission.
3
Submit application
We file your application through the Cancillería's online portal on your behalf and manage the correspondence. If Cancillería requests additional documentation, we handle the response — most other providers stop at filing.
Why Work With Us
Guiding foreign nationals through Colombia's visa system for over a decade
Personalized support
From your first question to the day you get an approval stamp, you work directly with our team — not a call center.
1,400+ visas approved
Our law firm specializes in Colombian immigration — we have been working with foreign travelers like you for over a decade.
Bilingual Colombian attorneys
Our team was born and licensed in Colombia and speaks fluent English. No translation friction between you and the government process.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Learn more about what you need to obtain a Colombian Transit Visa and how we can help.
How do I apply for a transit visa in Colombia?
There are four steps: (1) Confirm eligibility — you need a flight departing Colombia within 24 hours of arrival and you will not be permitted to exit the airport. (2) Gather the required documents: a valid passport, a 3×4 passport-style photo on a white background, tickets showing entry and exit within 24 hours, and proof you are able to enter your onward destination (a visa where required). (3) Submit the application through the Cancillería's online portal (tramitesmre.cancilleria.gov.co). (4) Wait for the decision — Cancillería has 30 calendar days to decide a complete application.
Do I need a visa for a layover in Colombia?
If your passport is from a country on Colombia's visa-exempt list, no — you can transit without a visa. If your passport is from a non-exempt country, yes: you will need a transit visa to have a layover in Colombia.
How long does it take to get a transit visa in Colombia?
Cancillería has up to 30 calendar days to respond to a complete application. Because processing time is measured against a filing date, we recommend applying 30–60 days before your travel date to build in a buffer for any additional documentation Cancillería may request.
Am I allowed to leave the airport with a transit visa?
No. The Colombian transit visa does not permit you to leave the airport or clear customs. It is designed to allow you to remain in the airport for your layover and depart the country within 24 hours. If you need to leave the airport, you will need a different Colombian visa or entry permit.
Need help getting a Colombian Transit Visa?
Free consultation with our attorneys. We'll tell you exactly what you need and how we handle the filing.
