Colombia Visa Explained

Here is a complete list of documents you'll need when applying for a Visitor Visa (Type V) to visit Colombia for various purposes, such as Tourist, holidays, visiting friends/family, attending a wedding, and more.

1. Visa Application Form:
   • Complete the online visa application form.
2. Passport:
   • Original passport with at least six months of validity beyond the intended stay.
   • Photocopies of the main pages of the passport.
3. Passport Photos:
   • Recent passport-sized photos meeting Colombia's specifications.
4. Proof of Legal Residence:
   • For non-citizens, provide proof of legal residence in the country where the application is submitted.
5. Travel Itinerary:
   • Round-trip flight reservation indicating entry and exit dates.
6. Accommodation Confirmation:
   • Proof of accommodation arrangements for the entire stay in Colombia (hotel reservation, invitation letter from a host, etc.).
7. Financial Documents:
   • Bank statements for the last six months showing sufficient funds.
   • Proof of employment or enrollment at a school/university.
   • Recent pay stubs or income statements.
   • If sponsored, a letter from the sponsor and their financial documents.
8. Travel Insurance:
   • Health and travel insurance with coverage in Colombia for the entire duration of the stay.
9. Invitation Letter (if applicable):
   • If visiting family or friends, an invitation letter with the host's information, relationship, and commitment to cover expenses.
10. Criminal Record Certificate:
    • A certificate issued by the relevant authorities indicating the absence of a criminal record.
11. Marriage Certificate or Birth Certificate (if applicable):
    • Relevant documents to prove family ties or relationships.
12. Payment of Visa Fees:
    • Payment receipt for the visa application fees.
13. Self-addressed Envelope:
    • If required by the consulate for return mail.
14. Additional Requirements (if applicable):
    • Any additional documents requested by the Colombian consulate or embassy.

Note: All documents should be submitted in their original form and, if applicable, translated into Spanish by a certified translator. It is advisable to check with the Colombian consulate or embassy for any additional requirements or changes in the visa application process.

Purpose of Visit Documents:

Note: Always consult with the Colombian consulate or embassy for the specific and latest requirements for each visa category before applying.

Before submitting your visa application, please review the list of required documents. The guidelines provided on this website will assist you in preparing your documents accurately, reducing the risk of your visa application being rejected due to incorrect or insufficient documentation.

Colombian Online Visa Application Portal

• The Visa Online service enables you to apply for a visa conveniently from your home or office, accessible 24/7 worldwide.
• Please ensure that the information you provide in this online form is accurate and free of errors. Any inaccuracies may result in the rejection of your application without a refund.
• Before you begin, make sure you have a recent color photo (3x4cm, white background, head-on, no accessories) in JPG format (max 300 KB), and individual PDF documents (in black and white, readable).
• The total weight of all attached documents should not exceed 5MB.
• Allow at least 30 minutes to complete the online application.
• If you've already applied online and know your application number, you can use this service to update your information.

The process for applying for Colombia visitor visa (Type V) from India typically involves the following steps:

1. Identify Visa Type:
   • Determine the specific visa category that aligns with your purpose for visiting Colombia (e.g., tourism, business, family visits).
2. Online Application:
   • Use the Visa Online service accessible 24/7 from any location worldwide.
   • Carefully read and provide accurate information in the online application form.
   • Avoid typing mistakes, as inaccuracies may result in application refusal without a refund.
   • Allocate at least 30 minutes for the online application process.
3. Required Documents:
   • Before starting the application, ensure you have a recent color photo (3x4cm, white background, head-on, no accessories) in JPG format (max 300 KB).
   • Submit individual documents in PDF format, ensuring readability and preferably in black and white.
   • The total weight of attached documents should not exceed 5MB.
4. Payment:
   • Check accepted payment methods on the official website under "Costs and Means of Payment."
5. Application Update:
   • If you have an existing online application, use the application number to update information through the online service.
   • If you forget the application number, contact citizen service lines: Bogotá: +57 (1) 3826999, Free national line: 01 8000 938 000.
6. Visit Consulate Office:
   • You will be notified via email about the status of your visa application.
   • Visit the Consulate only if your online application has been accepted to receive the visa stamp on your passport.
   • Note: If you're applying from within Colombia, choose the Ministry of Foreign Affairs office in Bogotá as your visa application location.
7. Notification of Status:
   • Regularly check your email for updates on the status of your visa application.
8. Collect Visa:
   • If your visa is approved, follow the instructions in the notification to collect your passport with the visa stamp from the Consulate.
9. Travel Arrangements:
   • Once you have the visa, make necessary travel arrangements, such as booking flights and accommodation.
10. Arrival in Colombia:
    • Ensure you have all necessary documents, including your passport with the visa stamp, upon arrival in Colombia.

Restrictions: The V Tourism visa doesn't permit work in Colombia.

Validity: The visa is valid for up to one year, allowing a stay of 90 days initially, extendable for another 90 days. After 180 days within a year, the stay cannot be extended until a new year begins from the visa issuance date.

Important notes:

• Upon arrival, immigration authorities will ask for proof of a valid exit ticket.
• Visitor visas are designed for short to medium-term stays and do not confer temporary or permanent resident status.
• Some allow specific work activities with designated entities or companies.
• The V holiday and work visa, by its nature, provides open work permission, contingent on the principle of reciprocity.
• You only need to visit the Consulate to obtain the visa stamp on your passport if your application is accepted.