Get Your Colombia Visa Online
Fast visa processing for tourism, business, and cultural experiences in South America's gateway destination
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Colombia Visa
Simple 4-step process — most applications approved within 5-15 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our comprehensive form with your travel plans, personal details, and purpose of visit. Our intelligent system validates every field in real-time, catching errors before submission and ensuring your application meets all requirements set by Colombia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
2
Upload required documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible) and a recent photograph meeting Colombia's specifications. Our document specialists review every submission and offer guidance to ensure compliance with Colombian visa photo requirements and document standards.
3
We submit to Colombian authorities
Your verified application is transmitted directly to Colombia's visa processing system. Our team monitors processing status around the clock and proactively handles any additional documentation requests from Colombian authorities, keeping you informed at every stage via email and SMS notifications.
4
Receive your Colombia visa
Your approved visa arrives via email as a PDF document. Print it clearly and present it at Colombian immigration along with your passport. Bienvenido a Colombia — welcome to one of South America's most diverse and exciting destinations!
Colombia Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
For leisure travel, sightseeing, and visiting friends or family in Colombia
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For meetings, conferences, trade fairs, and commercial activities
Student Visa
Up to 3 years
For academic studies at Colombian educational institutions
Work Visa
Up to 3 years
For employment with Colombian companies requiring work authorization
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages
- Photo: White background, 3x4cm, recent within 6 months
- Round-trip flight itinerary or travel confirmation
- Hotel reservation or invitation letter from host
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- Yellow fever vaccination if from endemic area
Visa Policy
Colombia maintains a welcoming visa policy that allows citizens of many countries to visit without obtaining a visa in advance. The country has worked to boost tourism and foreign investment by simplifying entry requirements for visitors from numerous nations around the world.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of over 100 countries can enter Colombia without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days. This includes visitors from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, European Union member states, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and most Latin American countries. Upon arrival, immigration officers may grant stays of 90 days, which can be extended for an additional 90 days at a Migracion Colombia office.
Countries Requiring Visas
Citizens of certain countries including China, India, some African nations, and several others require visas before traveling to Colombia. These travelers must apply through a Colombian consulate or embassy in their home country before departure.
Visa Requirements
Document Requirements for All Visa Types
Regardless of the visa category you are applying for, Colombia requires several standard documents:
Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned arrival date with minimum two blank pages for entry stamps and visa placement.
Photograph: Recent passport-style photo (taken within 6 months) measuring 3x4cm with white background, front-facing, neutral expression.
Travel Documentation: Round-trip flight itinerary or proof of onward travel, plus confirmed accommodation such as hotel bookings or an invitation letter if staying with friends or family.
Financial Evidence: Bank statements from the past 3 months or employment letter showing sufficient funds to cover your stay (approximately $50-100 USD per day recommended).
Additional Business Visa Requirements
Business travelers need an invitation letter from the Colombian company or organization, stating the purpose and duration of the business activities, along with company registration documents and proof of your professional role.
Application Process
Visa Application Process
For nationalities requiring a visa, Colombia's application process involves submitting documents through a Colombian consulate or embassy. The process typically involves completing the application form, gathering required documents, scheduling an appointment if required, and attending in person to submit biometrics.
Processing Times
Visa applications are generally processed within 5-15 business days, though it can take longer during peak travel seasons or if additional documentation is requested. We recommend applying at least 4-6 weeks before your intended travel date to allow buffer time.
Visa Extensions
Tourists already in Colombia can extend their stay by visiting a Migracion Colombia office before their initial period expires. Extensions are typically granted for an additional 90 days, allowing a maximum stay of 180 days within a calendar year.
Entry Points
Colombia has numerous international airports accepting visa holders, including El Dorado International Airport in Bogota (BOG), Rafael Nunez International Airport in Cartagena (CTG), Jose Maria Cordova International Airport in Medellin (MDE), and Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International Airport in Cali (CLO).
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
Colombia's location near the equator means temperatures are relatively consistent year-round, varying mainly by altitude. The dry seasons (December-March and July-August) are ideal for most regions. The Caribbean coast is perfect from December to April. The Coffee Region and Medellin enjoy spring-like weather year-round. Avoid the rainy seasons (April-May and October-November) for outdoor activities.
Health and Safety
Yellow fever vaccination is required for travelers visiting certain areas including the Amazon region, Llanos, and some Pacific coastal areas. Malaria prophylaxis may be advisable for jungle travel. Drink bottled water, use insect repellent in tropical areas, and ensure comprehensive travel insurance. Colombia has made significant safety improvements in recent years.
Currency and Payments
Colombia's currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but carry cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are common in cities. Inform your bank of travel plans to prevent card blocks.
Language
Spanish is Colombia's official language. While English is spoken in major tourist areas and hotels, learning basic Spanish phrases will enhance your experience and is greatly appreciated by locals.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
800+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.7Customer rating
96%Approval rate
"Excellent service for my Colombia visa! The team was incredibly helpful and guided me through every step. Got my visa in just 8 days. Cartagena here I come!"
"Super smooth process! Applied for my tourist visa on Monday and had it approved by Thursday. The document checklist made everything so easy to prepare."
"Good service overall. Processing took about 12 days which was within expectations. Support team answered all my questions promptly."
"Business visa sorted quickly and professionally. The invitation letter guidance was perfect. Will definitely use DoVisa again for my next trip!"
"Applied for the whole family and all visas were approved together. Had an amazing time exploring Medellin and the coffee region. Highly recommend!"
"The process was straightforward but took about 14 days. Customer support kept me updated throughout. Very satisfied with the service."
"Second time using DoVisa and once again impressed. The team really knows Colombian visa requirements inside out. Excellent experience!"
"Fantastic service! My visa came through in just 6 days. The photo requirements were specific but DoVisa guided me through exactly what was needed."
"Reliable service. Had a minor question about documents but support resolved it quickly. Got my visa and enjoyed beautiful Bogota!"
"Was nervous about applying for my first South American visa but DoVisa made it completely stress-free. Colombia exceeded all expectations!"
"Quick and professional service. Applied on Tuesday, approved by the following Monday. The step-by-step instructions made it very easy."
Colombia Visa FAQs
Do I need a visa to visit Colombia?
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality. Citizens of over 100 countries can enter Colombia visa-free for up to 90 days, including visitors from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, European Union, Australia, New Zealand, and most Latin American countries. Citizens of China, India, and certain other countries require a visa before travel. Check the current requirements for your specific nationality before booking.
What types of visas are available for Colombia?
Colombia offers several visa categories to suit different travel purposes. Visitor Visa (V): For tourism, business meetings, cultural activities, or medical treatment — valid for up to 2 years with stays of up to 180 days per year. Migrant Visa (M): For those with Colombian family ties, retirees, or property owners. Resident Visa (R): For permanent residence after meeting specific criteria. Student Visa: For academic studies at Colombian institutions. Work Visa: For employment with Colombian companies.
How long does Colombia visa processing take?
Processing times vary by visa type and where you apply. Consular applications: Typically 5-15 business days when applying through a Colombian embassy or consulate. During peak travel seasons, processing may take longer. We recommend applying at least 4-6 weeks before your intended travel date. Some consulates may offer expedited processing for an additional fee.
What documents do I need for a Colombia visa application?
Standard requirements for Colombia visa applications include: Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages; Recent passport photo (3x4cm, white background, taken within 6 months); Completed application form; Flight itinerary showing round-trip or onward travel; Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter); Financial evidence (bank statements showing sufficient funds); and Travel insurance (recommended). Business visa applicants also need an invitation letter from the Colombian company.
How long can I stay in Colombia with a tourist visa?
Visa-free visitors are typically granted stays of 90 days upon arrival. This can be extended for an additional 90 days by visiting a Migracion Colombia office before your initial period expires. The maximum stay is 180 days within a calendar year. Visa holders should check their specific visa validity and permitted stay duration. If you overstay, you will face fines and may be banned from future entry.
Can I extend my Colombia visa while in the country?
Yes, tourists can apply for a 90-day extension at any Migracion Colombia office before their initial period expires. Requirements include: your passport, completed extension form, proof of financial means for the extended stay, and payment of the extension fee (approximately $45 USD). Extensions are discretionary but generally granted for legitimate tourism purposes. Apply at least 15 days before your visa expires. You cannot extend beyond 180 days total stay within a calendar year for tourism.
Do I need a yellow fever vaccination for Colombia?
Yellow fever vaccination is required for travelers visiting areas below 2,300 meters altitude, including the Amazon region, Llanos, Pacific coast, and certain other areas. It is not required for visits only to Bogota, Cartagena, or Medellin city centers. However, if arriving from countries with yellow fever risk, you may need proof of vaccination regardless of your destination in Colombia. Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel. Carry your International Certificate of Vaccination when traveling.
What is the difference between tourist and business visas?
The key difference lies in permitted activities. Tourist entry/visa: Allows leisure activities, sightseeing, visiting family and friends, and short-term courses. Does not permit any paid work. Business visa: Allows attending business meetings, conferences, trade fairs, contract negotiations, and similar commercial activities. Does NOT permit employment or receiving payment from Colombian entities. If you need to work for a Colombian company, you require a Work Visa with proper authorization from Colombia's Ministry of Labor.
Can I work in Colombia with a tourist or business visa?
No, neither tourist entry nor business visas permit employment in Colombia. Working illegally can result in deportation, fines, and bans from future entry. Legal employment requires a Work Visa (Migrant Visa type M or specific work authorization), which must be sponsored by a Colombian employer. Digital nomads should note that remote work for foreign companies in a technical gray area — consider the digital nomad visa if working for extended periods.
What are Colombia's photo requirements for visa applications?
Colombia has specific photo requirements for visa applications: Size: 3x4cm; Background: Plain white only; Recency: Taken within the last 6 months; Position: Front-facing, looking directly at camera, neutral expression; Quality: High resolution, good lighting, no shadows on face; Attire: No head coverings (except for religious purposes with face fully visible), no glasses. Photos not meeting these specifications are a common cause of application delays.
What is the best time to visit Colombia?
Colombia's climate varies by region due to its diverse geography. Caribbean Coast (Cartagena): December to April offers dry, sunny weather ideal for beaches. Bogota and Highlands: Year-round mild temperatures; driest periods December-February and July-August. Medellin: Spring-like weather year-round with less rain from December-February. Coffee Region: Best visited during dry seasons (December-February, June-September). Amazon: Drier from June to October for wildlife spotting. Plan around your interests and check regional forecasts.
Do children need their own Colombia visa?
Yes, every traveler including infants must meet entry requirements for their nationality. Children cannot be included on parents' visas. Requirements include: valid passport in the child's own name, appropriate visa if required, passport photograph meeting specifications, and parental consent documentation. Important: Minors (under 18) traveling with only one parent or with someone other than their parents need notarized authorization from the absent parent(s) — this is strictly enforced at Colombian immigration.
What currency is used in Colombia and how should I pay?
Colombia's official currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard primarily) are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and tourist areas. Cash is essential for smaller establishments, markets, and rural areas. ATMs are readily available in cities — use those inside banks or shopping centers for security. Money exchange: Exchange at banks or authorized exchange houses (casas de cambio) for better rates than airports. Tip: Notify your bank of travel plans to prevent card blocks, and carry multiple payment methods.
Is Colombia safe for tourists?
Colombia has made remarkable safety improvements and is now a popular tourist destination. Safe areas: Major tourist destinations including Cartagena, Medellin, Bogota's tourist zones, the Coffee Region, and San Andres Island. Precautions: Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics; use hotel safes; take registered taxis or ride-apps like Uber or InDriver; stay in well-lit areas at night; avoid remote areas. Recommended: Travel insurance, copies of important documents stored separately. Most visitors have trouble-free experiences following standard travel safety practices.
What happens if my Colombia visa application is rejected?
Visa rejections are relatively uncommon but can occur. Common reasons: Incomplete documentation, photos not meeting specifications, insufficient financial evidence, unclear travel purpose, or previous immigration violations. If rejected: You will receive notification stating the reason. Most issues are correctable — you can reapply with improved documentation addressing the specific concerns. DoVisa guarantee: If your visa is denied due to an error on our part, we provide a full refund of our service fees and assist with reapplication at no additional charge.
Can I visit other South American countries with my Colombia visa?
A Colombia visa is only valid for Colombia — it does not grant access to other countries. However, many South American countries have their own favorable visa policies. Many nationalities can visit neighboring countries like Ecuador, Peru, Brazil, and Panama visa-free. Planning tip: If combining Colombia with other destinations, research each country's visa requirements separately and ensure you meet all entry conditions before traveling.
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