If you have plans to apply for a Colombia visa, you should have the Colombia visa processing time at the back of your mind. Many visa applicants make the mistake of applying for the Visa too early or too late; both have consequences. If you apply too early and the Visa has a shirt term validity, by the time you may be ready to make the trip, the Visa may be nearing its expiration date. If you apply too late, the Colombia tourist visa may not come out on time, disrupting your travel plans.
This page contains information about Colombia, the tourist and resident visa application process, and the processing time.
Traveling To Colombia
Colombia is a country in South America with lovely weather and vegetation. The bustling cities tell a story of rich art and culture with tropical beaches and resorts where foreigners and locals come to enjoy the wonders of the ocean. Colombia is also blessed with parks and heritage sites visitors can explore. In all, there is so much to see in the country. Might we also add that it is one of the most visited countries in South America and a top business destination for foreign investments too?
Do You Need A Visa To Visit Colombia?
Most nationals require a visa, but some don't. Citizens from Visa exempt countries or those with a valid Schengen visa may enter Colombia without a visa; those not in both categories will need a Colombian tourist visa to enter the country.
Types of Colombian Visas
Tourist Visa: This is a visa that allows the holder to visit and spend time in the country for up to 90 days. The tourist visitor visa are solely for tourists and short-term visits.
Business Visa: A business visa is valid for one year and above, and there are three classes of visas for business. We had a business owner's visa, a migrant Visa, and a residency visa. All three have their different requirements that the applicant must meet to qualify for them, such as the minimum investment requirement
Study Visa. This one is for international students who have gained admission into a higher institution in the country. The Visa covers the duration of their course.
Work Visa: Work visas are for foreigners a Colombian establishment has employed.
Colombian Visa Processing Time
The processing time for a Colombian visa depends on the type of Visa you are applying for. Online tourist visas take only a few days to process, but other visa types may take up to 15 working days or more.
How To Apply For Colombia Visa?
There are two ways for foreign nationals to apply for this Visa; via the Colombian consulate in your country or via online platforms like VisaHQ. Consulate applications are for long-term visas like study and work visas but short-term ones like business and tourist visas; you can apply for them online.
To apply for a tourist visa online, follow these steps.
Visit VisaHQ to open the online Colombia visa application form
Select your country of citizenship and choose Colombia as your destination
Select the type of Visa you want
Fill out the application form with the right details
Attach all necessary documents in their fields
Pay the visa fee payment using a credit or debit card. Ensure the card contains sufficient funds to cover the fee and transaction costs
Submit the form for processing
The visa fee cannot be paid with cash but with a credit or debit card. Applicants must also provide a valid email address which they will use to receive the Visa once it is approved. To avoid application rejections, check the details for errors and only use valid documents.
Colombia Visa Requirements For Visa
You must have a genuine reason for visiting the country with proof
You must have the finances to support your stay in the country
You must meet the Health and record requirements
Provide proof that you have every plan to return to your country.
Documents Required For Your Visa Application
The number and type of documents you need to provide will depend on the type of Visa you apply for but below are some general documents all applicants must provide
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and two blank pages
Duly completed and signed application form
Itinerary details
Hotel reservation
Return flight booking
Proof of funds
Cover Letter showing the purpose of the trip
Bank statement
Letter of employment (work visa)
Income tax statement (business visa)
Unless you are applying for a long-term visa, you don't have to visit the Colombian embassy and wait in long queues. Just visit VisaHQ to speedily complete the visa application form and wait for the Colombia visa processing time.