Article March 10, 2022

Changes in some Colombian visa rules due to COVID-19

The Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues with visa regulations due to Covid-19.

Due to the Health Emergency declared by the Ministry of Health because of COVID-19, The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued Resolution 1296 of April 21, 2020, to reassure many foreigners through changes in some Colombian visa rules and provisional measures that will govern until the end of the Health Emergency.

If you have a valid Colombian visa, the early termination of visas is suspended for being outside the national territory.

What will happen to people who are outside of Colombia?

If you have a valid M or R category visa, the count of the days you pass outside of Colombia is suspended from the issuance of this resolution. In this way, you will not accumulate 180 days abroad and will lose your visa in advance according to the usual government regulations for M-type visas, or two years if it is in the specific case of R-type visas. This provisional exception measure will continue until the end of the Health Emergency.

Editors note: updated on march 2022, Please note that the situation related to COVID-19 is evolving, and the topic discussed in these posts may change daily.

Can I apply for a visa through a consulate if I am outside Colombia?

Yes, Colombian consulates abroad are currently processing visas electronically. The Colombian Government does not require face-to-face interviews during the visa application process. However, some consulates abroad require personal assistance or a telephone interview before granting final approval of the visas.

If I am in Colombia now, can I apply for a visa?

The answer is yes. If you are currently on a legal stay in Colombia, you can apply for a visa based on your activities or situation in the country. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to work remotely and electronically.

However, keep in mind this: If you hold a visitor visa, you can apply for the same kind of visa before it expires. You will not be able to change the category while in Colombia.

It is still recommended that first-time processes have international medical insurance covering COVID-19. Although this is not a mandatory requirement for all cases, it is advisable since it benefits the process.

REMEMBER: Finally, before traveling to Colombia, we recommend reading “Colombian new entry requirements for foreign tourists and V Type Visa”, where you will find the latest regulations to enter the country regarding COVID-19 and vaccines.

What happens after Colombian visa approval?

If your visa is approved, the electronic visa will be enough to demonstrate your legal permanence and to advance your registration in the Foreign Registry. Since the pandemic began, visas have continued to be electronic. There is no active visa stamping service on the passport. The electronic visa is valid for all purposes.

Due to the current situation, visa processing could be complex. Having that in mind, we advise you to take some guidelines with us to increase your chances of success. Our expatgroup.co team is professional, reliable, and experts in everything related to visa processes. Quote what you need, and you will receive the requirements and cost within 2 minutes by email.