Colombia eVisa

The Colombia e Visa is an electronic travel authorization which is a 100% online process that hardly takes 3-5 minutes to fill in the online application.

Apply eVisa Online
Make Payment for eVisa
Get eVisa on your email

Colombia, situated in the northwest region of South America, is a country renowned for its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history. The country is a popular tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors every year. To facilitate the entry of foreign travelers, the Colombian government has introduced the eVisa system.

The Colombia eVisa is an electronic travel authorization that allows visitors to enter the country for tourism, business, or transit purposes. The eVisa system was launched in December 2017 and has since made the process of obtaining a visa to Colombia more efficient and convenient.

The eVisa application process is entirely online, and applicants can apply from anywhere in the world as long as they have access to the internet. To apply for the Colombia eVisa, travelers need to fill out an online application form with their personal and travel information, upload a scanned copy of their passport, and pay the visa fee online.

The eVisa application process is straightforward and usually takes about five business days to process. Once approved, travelers receive their eVisa via email, which they need to print and carry with them when traveling to Colombia.

The Colombia eVisa is valid for a maximum of 90 days and allows travelers to enter the country multiple times during this period. The eVisa can also be extended for up to 90 additional days, but travelers need to apply for an extension before their current eVisa expires.

It is essential to note that not all nationalities are eligible for the Colombia eVisa. Travelers from countries that do not have a visa exemption agreement with Colombia need to apply for a regular visa at the Colombian embassy or consulate in their country of residence.

The Colombia eVisa is an excellent option for travelers who want to visit the country for tourism, business, or transit purposes. The eVisa system has made the visa application process more accessible and convenient for travelers worldwide. It is advisable to check the eligibility criteria before applying for the eVisa and ensure that all necessary documents are in order to avoid any last-minute complications.

What is a Colombian eVisa?

A Colombia eVisa is an electronic travel authorization that allows foreign nationals to enter and stay in Colombia for a limited period of time for tourism, business, or other purposes. It is an alternative to the traditional visa, which requires a visit to a Colombian embassy or consulate. The eVisa application process is entirely online, and applicants receive their travel authorization electronically, without the need for a physical visa stamp on their passport. The eVisa simplifies the visa application process and makes it more convenient for travelers who wish to visit Colombia for short-term stays.

Eligibility criteria for Colombia eVisa

To be eligible for the Colombia eVisa, travelers need to meet the following criteria:

Passport: The traveler's passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Colombia and have at least two blank pages for stamping.

Purpose of travel: The eVisa is available for travelers visiting Colombia for tourism, business, or transit purposes.

Nationality: The traveler's nationality must be one of the eligible countries for the Colombia eVisa. Currently, nationals of around 107 countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and most European countries, are eligible for the eVisa. It is essential to check the latest list of eligible countries before applying.

Proof of return or onward travel: The traveler must have a valid return ticket or proof of onward travel.

Financial means: The traveler must have sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in Colombia.

No criminal record: The traveler must have a clean criminal record and not be on any wanted or watch lists.

Vaccinations: Some travelers may be required to show proof of vaccination against yellow fever, depending on their country of origin and whether they are visiting certain regions in Colombia. It is advisable to check the latest vaccination requirements before applying for the eVisa.

It is essential to note that meeting the above eligibility criteria does not guarantee approval of the eVisa application. The Colombian government retains the right to deny an eVisa application without providing a reason. Therefore, it is advisable to ensure that all application details and supporting documents are accurate and complete.

Colombia eVisa application process

The Colombia eVisa application process is entirely online, and applicants can follow the steps below to apply:

Visit the official website: Go to the Colombian government's official eVisa website to start the application process.

Select the visa type: Choose the type of visa you require based on the purpose of your visit - tourism, business, or transit.

Check eligibility: Ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria for the Colombia eVisa.

Fill out the application form: Complete the online application form with your personal and travel details. Be sure to enter all information accurately and truthfully.

Upload supporting documents: Upload a scanned copy of your passport and any other supporting documents, such as your itinerary or proof of onward travel.

Pay the visa fee: Pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card.

Submit the application: Once you have completed the application and paid the fee, submit the application for processing.

Check the status of your application: After submitting your application, you can check the status of your application on the official website. Processing times may vary, but the eVisa is usually processed within five business days.

Receive your eVisa: If your application is approved, you will receive your eVisa via email. Print a copy of your eVisa and carry it with you when traveling to Colombia.

It is essential to ensure that all information provided in the application is accurate and complete. Any false or incomplete information could result in the rejection of the eVisa application.

After You Arrive in Colombia

After obtaining your Colombian visa, it is mandatory to register your stay with the local immigration authorities (Migración Colombia) within 15 days of your arrival in the country. If you are already in Colombia, ensure to register within 15 days of receiving your visa.

If your stay in Colombia extends beyond three months, you will be issued a Foreigners ID Card (Cedula de Extranjeria) after completing the registration process.

You can find Immigration Offices in major cities throughout Colombia, making it convenient to complete the registration process.

Required documents for Colombia eVisa

To apply for a Colombia eVisa, the following documents are typically required:

Valid passport: You must have a valid passport that will remain valid for at least six months from your date of entry to Colombia.

Recent passport-size photograph: You will need to upload a recent passport-size photograph that meets the Colombian government's specifications.

Travel itinerary: You must provide a copy of your travel itinerary, including details of your arrival and departure dates, and proof of onward travel if applicable.

Proof of accommodation: You must provide proof of your accommodation in Colombia, such as a hotel reservation, booking confirmation, or invitation letter from a host.

Proof of financial means: You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Colombia, such as a bank statement or a letter from your employer.

Travel insurance: You must have travel insurance that covers your entire stay in Colombia, including medical expenses and emergency evacuation.

Other documents: Depending on the purpose of your visit, you may be required to provide additional documents, such as a letter of invitation, business registration documents, or academic transcripts.

Processing time for Colombia eVisa

The processing time for a Colombia eVisa application can vary depending on several factors, including the volume of applications being processed at the time and the complexity of the case. Generally, it takes between 3 to 7 business days for the Colombian government to process the eVisa application and issue a travel authorization. However, in some cases, the processing time may take longer, up to 30 days or more. It is recommended to apply for the Colombia eVisa well in advance of your intended travel date to allow for any unforeseen delays in processing.

Cost of Colombia eVisa

When applying for a Colombia visa, there are two separate fees that must be paid: the visa processing fee and an additional fee if the application is approved.

The initial fee for the Colombia visa varies depending on the applicant's country of residence. If applying from Cuba or a European country, the fee is €40, while if applying from within Colombia or a non-European country, the fee is $52.

The second Colombia visa fee is only payable if the application is approved, and the cost varies depending on the applicant's country of residence and the type of visa applied for.

There are various methods of payment available for the Colombia visa fee, including online payment via the PSE Electronic Service Provider by entering the visa application reference number, payment at the Colombian Consulate (contact the relevant Consulate for their preferred means of payment), and payment through a Servibanca ATM or Banco GNB Sudameris in Bogotá if the applicant is in Colombia at the time of payment.

It is essential to check the website of the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for any changes to the visa fee payment requirements to ensure compliance with the latest regulations.

Validity and duration of stay with Colombia eVisa

The duration of a Colombian visa depends on its type and the decision of the Consular or Immigration Authorities. The following are the general guidelines for each type of visa:

  • Colombia Visitor Visas are typically issued for up to 90 days, but in some cases, they may be issued for a longer duration, up to two years.
  • Colombia Migrant Visas are usually issued for up to three years and can be renewed upon expiration.
  • Colombia Resident Visas are generally issued for five years and can be renewed upon expiration.

It is important to note that the validity period of a visa does not determine the maximum amount of time you can stay in Colombia. The duration of your stay will be determined by the Immigration Authorities upon your arrival in Colombia and may be shorter than the visa's validity period.

Benefits of applying for a Colombia eVisa

There are several benefits to applying for a Colombia eVisa:

Convenience: The eVisa application process is entirely online, making it more convenient for travelers who do not live near a Colombian embassy or consulate.

Time-saving: The eVisa application can be completed quickly and efficiently, saving time compared totraditional visa application methods.

Faster processing: The Colombian government typically processes eVisa applications faster than traditional visa applications.

Easy tracking: Applicants can easily track the status of their eVisa application online and receive updates on its progress.

More secure: The eVisa system is designed to prevent fraud and enhance security, reducing the risk of identity theft or other forms of fraud.

Multiple entry: The Colombia eVisa allows multiple entries into the country during its validity period, which can be more convenient for frequent travelers.

Saves money: The cost of a Colombia eVisa is often less than the cost of a traditional visa, saving applicants money.

Overall, the Colombia eVisa simplifies the visa application process, making it more accessible and convenient for travelers who wish to visit Colombia for short-term stays.

Entering Colombia With Another Type of Visa

Travelers from Cambodia, China, India, Macau (up to 180 days), Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam can enter Colombia without a visa for up to 90 days if they possess a valid short-stay visa or residence permit issued by a Schengen country or the USA. The visa or residence permit must remain valid for at least 180 days from the date of arrival in Colombia. This policy simplifies the visa requirements for citizens of these countries, making it easier for them to travel to Colombia for short-term stays.

Do I Need a Visa to Transit Through a Colombian Airport?

If you are transiting through a Colombian airport and will not leave the international transit area, you do not need a visa to transit through Colombia. However, if you plan to leave the transit area or stay in Colombia for more than 24 hours, you will need a visa.

It is important to note that some nationalities may require a transit visa even if they are not leaving the international transit area. Therefore, it is advisable to check the latest visa requirements for your nationality and travel itinerary before you depart for Colombia.

If you are unsure about whether you need a visa for transit through Colombia, you should contact the nearest Colombian embassy or consulate in your country or visit the official website of the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for more information.

Can I Extend a Colombia Visa?

Yes, it is possible to extend certain types of Colombia visas. If you have a Colombia Visitor Visa, you can apply for a one-time extension for up to an additional 90 days. However, it is important to note that the extension is not guaranteed and is subject to the discretion of the Colombian Immigration Authorities.

If you have a Colombia Migrant or Resident Visa, you can apply to renew your visa when it is close to expiration. The renewal process may require additional documentation and may take several weeks to process.

It is recommended to begin the visa extension or renewal process well in advance of the visa's expiration date to allow for any unforeseen delays. Failing to extend or renew your visa before it expires can result in penalties or difficulties with future travel to Colombia.

Can I Work With a Colombia Visa?

Yes, it is possible to work in Colombia with a valid Colombia work visa. To obtain a work visa, you must have a job offer from a Colombian employer and meet certain requirements set by the Colombian government.

There are several types of work visas available in Colombia, including the TP-4, TP-7, and TP-13 visas. The specific visa you will need depends on the type of work you will be doing in Colombia and your employment contract.

It is important to note that working in Colombia without the proper work visa or permit is illegal and can result in serious consequences, including deportation and fines. Additionally, some visa types, such as the Colombia Visitor Visa, do not allow for work, so it is important to ensure that you have the appropriate visa before beginning any employment in Colombia.

Tips for a successful Colombia eVisa application

Here are some tips for a successful Colombia eVisa application:

Check eligibility: Before starting the application process, make sure you meet all the eligibility criteria for the Colombia eVisa. If you are unsure, contact the nearest Colombian embassy or consulate for clarification.

Accurate and complete information: Ensure that you provide accurate and complete information in the application form. Any false or incomplete information could result in the rejection of your eVisa application.

Supporting documents: Upload all required supporting documents, such as a scanned copy of your passport and any other documents related to your travel plans. Make sure the documents are in the required format and size.

Apply in advance: Apply for your Colombia eVisa well in advance of your travel dates to allow sufficient time for processing. The eVisa is usually processed within five business days, but it is advisable to apply at least two weeks in advance to avoid any delays.

Payment: Pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card and ensure that you keep a record of the payment confirmation. If the payment is not successful, your eVisa application may be rejected.

Check status: After submitting your application, check the status of your application regularly on the official website. If there are any issues or errors, contact the support team for assistance.

Carry a printed copy: If your eVisa application is approved, print a copy of your eVisa and carry it with you when traveling to Colombia. This will be required at the airport and when entering the country.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of a successful Colombia eVisa application and ensure a smooth travel experience.

Frequently Asked questions

A Colombia eVisa is an electronic travel authorization that allows travelers to enter Colombia for a temporary period of stay for tourism, business, or medical treatment purposes.

Nationals of certain countries need a Colombia eVisa to enter the country. The list of eligible countries is available on the official website of the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

A Colombia eVisa is valid for up to 90 days from the date of issuance. The eVisa allows for multiple entries during its validity period.

The processing time for a Colombia eVisa is usually five business days from the date of application submission. However, the processing time may vary depending on the volume of applications received.

The cost of a Colombia eVisa depends on the applicant's country of residence. The initial processing fee is €40 for applicants from Cuba or a European country and $52 for applicants from within Colombia or a non-European country. The additional fee for the visa, if approved, varies depending on the type of visa and the applicant's country of residence.

No, a Colombia eVisa cannot be extended. If you wish to stay in Colombia for more than 90 days, you must apply for a visa extension at the Colombian immigration office.

Yes, you can cancel your Colombia eVisa application before it is submitted for processing. Once the application is submitted, it cannot be cancelled or refunded.

No, a Colombia eVisa is not a guarantee of entry into the country. The final decision to allow entry into Colombia rests with the immigration officials at the port of entry.