Colombia Visa Eligibility Criteria

This page has been reviewed and verified by Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Advisor. For current rules and requirements, see our guide on How to Apply for a Colombia Visa.

To obtain a Colombia Visa, applicants must meet the official eligibility requirements set by the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These conditions confirm that you are a genuine traveller, have sufficient funds to support your stay, and meet all entry and documentation standards for your chosen visa type.

At Visa Applications, we assess each applicant’s eligibility before preparing and submitting the visa file. This ensures your application fully complies with the legal framework and minimises the risk of rejection or delay.

General Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for a Colombia visa, applicants must:

• Hold a valid passport from an eligible country, with at least six months’ validity remaining.
• Demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay.
• Provide a legitimate reason for travel (tourism, business, study, residence, etc.).
• Submit all required documents in the correct format.
• Have no criminal record or history of immigration violations in Colombia or abroad.
• Hold valid travel or health insurance covering the entire stay in Colombia.

Applicants must also be able to demonstrate their intent to return home or continue travel after their visa expires.

Eligibility by Visa Type

Different visa categories in Colombia have specific eligibility rules:

• Tourist Visa (V Type): Open to visitors travelling for leisure, short-term stays, or family visits.
• Business Visa (V Type): For those engaging in commercial activity, attending meetings, or representing a foreign company.
• Student Visa (M Type): Requires acceptance from a recognised educational institution in Colombia.
• Work Visa (M Type): Requires a formal job offer or contract from a Colombian employer.
• Residence Visa (R Type): For long-term residents, investors, or individuals married to Colombian citizens.

Our team ensures your chosen visa type matches your intended activity and eligibility profile before the application is submitted.

Financial and Employment Requirements

Proof of financial stability is essential for visa approval.
Applicants may be asked to show:

• Bank statements for the last three months.
• Employment confirmation or business registration.
• Proof of ongoing income, pension, or savings.
• Letter of sponsorship if another person or organisation covers expenses.

Health and Security Criteria

Applicants must:

• Hold valid medical or travel insurance covering the intended stay.
• Have no record of serious infectious disease or criminal conviction.
• Meet entry and health standards at the point of arrival in Colombia.

Who Does Not Need a Visa for Colombia

Citizens of certain countries, including the UK, EU member states, Canada, Australia, and the USA, may enter Colombia visa-free for short stays of up to 90 days.
Our team can confirm your visa exemption status during initial eligibility review.

How Visa Applications Confirms Eligibility

We perform a detailed assessment before submission that includes:

• Verification of passport and identity document validity.
• Evaluation of financial and employment evidence.
• Confirmation that your stated travel purpose matches the correct visa type.
• Preparation of additional supporting letters if required.

This ensures that every file submitted through Visa Applications meets the Ministry’s eligibility standard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for a Colombia visa?
Any foreign national meeting the documentation, financial, and travel purpose criteria may apply for a Colombia visa.

Can I apply if I am self-employed?
Yes. Self-employed individuals must provide proof of business activity, income, or registration documentation.

Do I need a visa for a short visit to Colombia?
Nationals of many countries can enter visa-free for stays of up to 90 days. Our team can confirm your eligibility status.

How does Visa Applications determine my eligibility?
We perform a pre-assessment of your documents, financials, and purpose of travel to ensure full compliance before applying.

About This Page

Author: Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Advisor.
Last Updated: December 2025.