Colombia Visa Documents Checklist

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.

All applicants must submit a complete set of documents to support their Colombia Visa application. The Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs requires that each document be accurate, up-to-date, and clearly demonstrate the applicant’s eligibility for the visa category being requested.

At Visa Applications, we prepare, review, and compile all required documents on behalf of our clients to ensure full compliance with Colombian immigration standards. Submitting an incomplete or inaccurate application may result in delays or refusal.

Core Required Documents

The following documents are required for most Colombia visa categories:

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay, with two or more blank pages.
• Recent Photograph: Colour passport photo meeting ICAO standards (white background, no headwear or glasses).
• Completed Visa Application Form: Submitted electronically through our secure system.
• Proof of Financial Means: Recent bank statements or evidence of income covering your stay.
• Proof of Accommodation: Hotel booking, rental agreement, or invitation letter from a host in Colombia.
• Return or Onward Ticket: Confirmed travel booking demonstrating intent to leave Colombia after your stay.
• Travel Insurance: Valid for the entire duration of your visit and covering medical expenses.

Additional Documents by Visa Type

Depending on the purpose of travel, the following additional documents may be required:

• Tourist Visa: Detailed itinerary or invitation letter from a host in Colombia.
• Business Visa: Letter of invitation from the Colombian company and proof of commercial activity.
• Student Visa: Proof of enrolment or acceptance letter from a recognised educational institution.
• Work Visa: Employment contract or sponsorship letter from a registered Colombian employer.
• Residence Visa: Evidence of long-term income, property ownership, or family relationship with a Colombian citizen or resident.

Document Formatting and Translation

All supporting documents must meet official standards:

• Documents not in Spanish or English must be translated by a certified translator.
• Digital copies must be clear, legible, and in PDF format.
• Scans of identification or financial records must show all corners and edges.
• Any official document (e.g., birth, marriage, or degree certificate) should be legalised or apostilled if issued abroad.

Our team ensures every document meets the Ministry’s formatting and submission guidelines before your application is lodged.

Pre-Submission Document Review

Before submission, Visa Applications performs a detailed compliance check that includes:

• Verification of all document validity and issue dates.
• Cross-checking names, passport numbers, and reference details for consistency.
• Ensuring that translations and apostilles are correctly attached.
• Preparing all digital uploads in line with Colombia’s eVisa system requirements.

This quality control process ensures that your application is accepted without administrative rejection or delay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to submit my original documents?
Most applications require digital copies. Originals may only be requested if attending a visa centre or upon approval verification.

Are translations required for English documents?
No. English and Spanish are both accepted, but other languages require certified translation.

What happens if one document is missing?
Your application may be delayed or rejected. We check completeness before submission to prevent this.

Can Visa Applications prepare my checklist?
Yes. We prepare, verify, and compile the entire document set before final submission, ensuring full compliance.

About This Page

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