How To Apply For A Colombia Visitor Visa | Step-by-step Guide For Colombia Tourist Visa Application

If Colombia has been on your travel bucket list, you’re not alone. From the vibrant streets of Bogotá to the coffee farms of the Andes and the Caribbean coastline of Cartagena, the country has become a magnet for travellers. But before you can sip that perfect Colombian coffee in Medellín or hike through Cocora Valley, you may need to get a Colombia visitor visa.

Many travellers put off the application process because they think it’s complicated or time-consuming. The good news? It’s more straightforward than you might expect—especially if you have a clear roadmap to follow.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to apply for a Colombia tourist visa successfully, step-by-step. We’ll also show you how TRAVUL.ORG can make the process easier by helping you plan, finance, and manage your travel and visa requirements in one place.

Who Needs a Colombia Visitor Visa?

Not everyone needs a visa to enter Colombia. Citizens from countries like the U.S., U.K., Canada, the EU, Australia, and many others can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. However, if your country is not on Colombia’s visa-exempt list, you’ll need to apply for a visitor visa (often referred to as the V-type visa) before traveling.

To check if you need one, visit Colombia’s official Ministry of Foreign Affairs website and use their country list tool.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Colombia Visitor Visa

1. Gather Your Required Documents

Colombia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs requires specific documents for a visitor visa. Having them ready before you start your application can save you a lot of time. Commonly required documents include:

• Valid passport – Must be valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages.

• Passport photo – A recent color photo with a white background.

• Proof of funds – Bank statements from the last 3 months showing you can support yourself during your stay.

• Travel itinerary – Flight reservation showing entry and exit dates.

• Accommodation details – Hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter if staying with friends/family.

• Visa application form – Completed online.

• Proof of visa fee payment – You’ll receive this during the application process.

2. Complete the Online Application

Colombia processes visa applications online through the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. Here’s how:

• Go to https://www.cancilleria.gov.co/tramites_servicios/visa

• Select “Visa Application” and fill out the form.

• Upload scanned copies of your documents in PDF format (each file must be under 3MB).

• Submit your application and note your application number.

3. Pay the Visa Fee

Once you submit your application, you’ll receive payment instructions. As of now, visa fees vary depending on nationality, but most visitors pay between USD 50–82 for the application review and USD 82–170 for visa issuance. Payments can be made online by card or through authorized banks if applying within Colombia.

4. Wait for Review & Possible Interview

Most applications are reviewed within 5 to 10 business days. In some cases, the consulate or visa office may request additional documents or schedule a short online interview to verify your information.

5. Receive Your Visa

If approved, your visa will be issued electronically via email. You’ll need to print it and carry it with you when traveling to Colombia. The visitor visa is typically valid for up to 90 days, with the option to extend your stay once you’re in Colombia (up to 180 days in total per calendar year).

Tips for a Smooth Colombia Visa Application

• Submit clear, readable documents – Poor-quality scans can cause delays.

• Apply early – Start at least a month before your intended travel date.

• Double-check your details – Mistakes in your form can lead to rejections.

• Have proof of ties to your home country – Return tickets, employment letters, or property ownership can help strengthen your application.

How TRAVUL.ORG Makes This Easier

Applying for visas can be stressful, especially if you’re also figuring out how to pay for your trip, book flights, and plan your itinerary. TRAVUL.ORG brings everything into one place:

• Visa Support – Step-by-step guidance, document checklists, and alerts for any changes in visa requirements.

• Travel Financing – Save for your trip or apply for a travel loan directly in the platform.

• Trip Planning Tools – AI-powered itinerary suggestions so you can make the most of your time in Colombia.

• Secure Document Storage – Keep all your visa documents, tickets, and reservations in one secure place.

Instead of jumping between multiple websites, emails, and spreadsheets, you can handle everything in one ecosystem—saving time, reducing errors, and traveling with confidence.

FAQs

Can I apply for a Colombia visa on arrival?

No, Colombia does not offer visas on arrival. If you need one, you must apply before traveling.

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

The standard visitor visa allows up to 90 days, extendable to 180 days within the same calendar year.

Can I work in Colombia with a visitor visa?

No, the visitor visa is for tourism and short-term visits only. You’ll need a different visa for work.

What happens if I overstay my visa?

Overstaying can lead to fines, deportation, and even bans on re-entering Colombia. Always check your visa’s expiration date.

Do I need travel insurance for my visa application?

While not always mandatory, having travel insurance is highly recommended and may be required depending on your nationality.

Final Thoughts

Getting your Colombia visitor visa doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation, clear documents, and a bit of organization, the process can be quick and hassle-free. And with TRAVUL.ORG, you can go beyond just the visa—plan your trip, manage your travel finances, and keep all your documents in one secure place.

If Colombia is calling your name, what’s stopping you from starting your application today?