Colombia visas
Whether you need a visa to enter Colombia depends on your nationality and the purpose and length of your stay. Nationals of many countries can enter visa-free for short visits, while others must obtain a visa. Colombia's visa system (Resolution 5477 of 2022) is organised into three categories — Visitor (Type V), Migrant (Type M) and Resident (Type R) — and is run by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Cancillería). This hub explains the routes in plain language and links to the official sources so you can confirm exactly what applies to you before you travel or apply.
Important information
Colombian visa categories
Explore visa categories by the purpose of your trip.
- Visitor & short-stay visasShort stays in Colombia — tourism, visiting family or friends, business trips and transit, plus any visa-free or electronic-authorisation options.4 visas
- Work visasComing to Colombia to work — the employment and skilled-worker routes and the permits they require.2 visas
- Study visasStudying in Colombia — student visas and permits for accepted students, and what they let you do.1 visa
- Family visasJoining or sponsoring a family member in Colombia — spouse, partner, child and other relative routes.1 visa
- Business & investor visasInvesting, doing business or coming to Colombia as a highly skilled or exceptional individual.1 visa
- Residence & citizenshipLiving in Colombia long term — permanent residence and, where available, the path to citizenship.4 visas
Colombian visa application at a glance
From start to finish in five simple steps.
- 01Choose the right visa
- 02Check eligibility & documents
- 03Apply online
- 04Provide biometrics
- 05Wait for a decision
Colombia — key facts
- Entry document
- Visa or visa-free entry
- Depends on your nationality and purpose of travel
- Authority
- Cancillería
- Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores
- Visa categories
- Types V, M and R
- Visitor, Migrant and Resident (Resolution 5477 of 2022)
- Apply online
- SITAC portal
- Applications are made on the Cancillería's online system
- Short stays
- Visa-free for many
- Many nationalities may visit without a visa — no paid work
Colombian visas — people also ask
It depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Nationals of many countries can enter Colombia visa-free for short tourism or business stays, while others must obtain a visa. Check the official Cancillería requirements for your nationality.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-09. Information only — not legal advice.