Why Apply for a Colombia Tourist Visa?

Colombia is becoming a top travel destination for Canadians. Here's why applying for a Colombia tourist visa is worth it:

  • Over 5 million international visitors entered Colombia in 2023, reflecting growing global interest.
  • Direct flights from major Canadian cities like Toronto and Montreal to Bogotá & Medellín.
  • Visa also covers short-term business trips, medical treatment, and short courses or training.
  • Affordable travel, food, and accommodation costs—ideal for budget travelers from Canada.
  • Discover Colombia’s rich culture, biodiversity, beaches, and vibrant cities.
  • Tourist visa validity of up to 90 days, extendable once for another 90 days.

Why Apply for a Colombia Tourist Visa

Benefits of Colombia Visit Visa

  • Travel for leisure, business meetings, medical visits, or short study programs.
  • Easy online application process with embassy/consulate support in Canada.
  • Multiple entries allowed within visa validity.
  • Option to extend your stay while in Colombia.
  • Explore one of South America's most culturally diverse countries.

Eligibility for Colombia Tourist Visa

  • Hold a valid Canadian passport or legal residency in Canada.
  • Must be traveling for tourism, business, medical, or short-term education.
  • Should not be employed or seek employment in Colombia.
  • Sufficient funds to support your stay.
  • Return ticket or onward travel proof.
  • No criminal background.

Colombia Tourist Visa Requirements

  • Valid passport with at least 6 months of validity
  • Recent passport-sized photos
  • Completed and signed visa application form
  • Travel itinerary including round-trip flight bookings
  • Proof of hotel reservations or accommodation details
  • Financial proof (bank statements for the last 3–6 months)
  • Letter from employer or proof of self-employment (if applicable)
  • Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends or for business)
  • Proof of medical insurance covering your stay in Colombia
  • Documents related to the purpose (e.g., course enrollment for short-term education)

Colombia Tourist Visa Requirements

Step-by-step Application Process for Colombia Visit Visa

  1. Determine whether you need a visa based on your nationality/residency.
  2. Gather all required documents.
  3. Fill out the visa application form online via the Colombia Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
  4. Book an appointment at the nearest Colombian consulate in Canada (e.g., Toronto, Montreal, or Vancouver).
  5. Submit your application and documents at the consulate or online.
  6. Pay the visa fee as instructed.
  7. Wait for processing and attend any interviews if required.
  8. Receive visa approval and travel to Colombia.

Step-by-Step Application Process for Colombia Tourist Visa

Colombia Tourist Visa Processing Time

Applications are generally processed within 5 to 10 business days. Processing may vary based on consulate workload and document verification. Applying well in advance of your travel date is recommended.
 

Colombia Tourist Visa Cost (in CAD)

Visa Type

Cost (CAD)

Notes

Tourist Visa (Single Entry)

CAD 100–120

Payable online or at consulate

Visa Extension Fee

Varies

Payable at immigration office in Colombia

 

How to Check Visa Status for Colombia Visit Visa

Applicants can check the visa status through the Colombian Foreign Ministry website using their application number. Alternatively, you may contact the consulate where you submitted your application for updates.
 

How Long is a Colombia Tourist Visa Valid?

The tourist visa is usually valid for up to 90 days and can be extended once for another 90 days at the immigration office in Colombia.
 

Types of Colombia Tourist Visas

  • Single-entry tourist visa: Valid for 90 days; one-time entry.
  • Multiple-entry visa: Issued at discretion of embassy based on travel history and reason.
  • Visa-exempt: Canadians with tourist purposes for less than 90 days may not need a visa.
     

How Can Y-Axis Help You?

  • Guide you on the required documents based on your travel purpose
  • Advise you on financial proof and application strategy
  • Help you fill out the visa application accurately
  • Review and organize your documents before submission
  • Assist you with appointment booking and follow-ups

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the validity period of a Colombia tourist visa?

The Colombia tourist visa, officially called a Visitor Visa (Type V), typically allows foreign nationals to stay for up to 90 days. In many cases, this stay can be extended once for an additional 90 days, making a total of 180 days in a calendar year. Depending on the applicant’s nationality and circumstances, some visas may be issued with a validity of up to one year, allowing multiple entries during that period. Even if the visa is valid longer, the maximum stay is generally capped at 180 days per year to ensure compliance with Colombian immigration rules.

What are the passport requirements for traveling to Colombia as a tourist?

Travelers to Colombia must meet the following passport requirements:

  • A valid passport in good condition.
  • At least six months’ validity from the date of entry.
  • Minimum of two blank pages for visas and entry/exit stamps.
  • The passport must be undamaged and legible
  • Depending on nationality, additional requirements may apply, such as:
  • Recent passport-sized photographs.
  • Supporting identification documents.

Note: It is recommended to confirm requirements in advance to avoid delays at immigration.

Are there any exemptions to the Colombia tourist visa requirements?

Yes, Colombia allows visa-free entry for citizens of over 80 countries for short-term tourist stays, usually up to 90 days. This includes many countries in Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Oceania. Visa-exempt travelers still need to present the standard entry requirements, including a valid passport, proof of onward or return travel, evidence of sufficient funds for their stay, and completion of the required pre-registration form (Check-Mig). In some cases, bilateral agreements allow reduced fees or special entry conditions. Travelers should verify their status before traveling to confirm whether they require a tourist visa or are exempt.

Are there any exemptions to the Colombia tourist visa requirements?

Yes, Colombia allows visa-free entry for citizens of over 80 countries for short-term tourist stays, usually up to 90 days. This includes many countries in Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Oceania. Visa-exempt travelers still need to present the standard entry requirements, including a valid passport, proof of onward or return travel, evidence of sufficient funds for their stay, and completion of the required pre-registration form (Check-Mig). In some cases, bilateral agreements allow reduced fees or special entry conditions. Travelers should verify their status before traveling to confirm whether they require a tourist visa or are exempt.

What are the requirements for a tourist visa for Colombia?

Applicants for a Colombian tourist visa generally need to provide:

  • A valid passport with at least two blank pages.
  • Recent passport-sized photos meeting specifications.
  • Proof of sufficient financial resources to cover the trip.
  • Evidence of return or onward travel (such as flight tickets).
  • Proof of accommodation, such as:
  • Hotel bookings, or
  • An invitation letter from a host.
  • In some cases, financial details of the host may be required.
  • Completion of the online visa application form.
  • Payment of the applicable visa fee before processing.
Where can I find information about Colombia tourist visa fees?

Information on tourist visa fees for Colombia is published by the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and available through Colombian consulates. The exact amount varies depending on the nationality of the applicant, as reciprocity agreements influence the fee structure. In some cases, reduced fees or special arrangements apply. Applicants are encouraged to consult their nearest Colombian consulate or embassy to obtain the exact cost before applying. Official consular websites and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also provide updates on any changes to fees, ensuring travelers are informed before beginning their application process.

Where can I find the pre-registration form for travel to Colombia?

All travelers to Colombia must complete the Check-Mig pre-registration form before traveling. This online form is managed by Migración Colombia and must be filled out between 72 hours and 1 hour prior to entering or leaving the country. It requires personal details, travel itinerary, and flight information. Once completed, travelers receive a confirmation, usually in the form of a QR code, which must be presented at the airport during boarding and again upon arrival in Colombia. The Check-Mig process helps streamline immigration procedures and is mandatory for both visa-exempt travelers and those holding a tourist visa.