How to Apply for a Colombia Visa: Everything Indian Travellers Need to Know

Are you going to travel to Colombia from India? With its green scenery, lively cities, and storied past, Colombia is a fantastic place that welcomes visitors from around the globe. But before you can start packing, there's one essential thing to do – to apply for a visa for Colombia from India.

In this guide, we will take you through the most important things you should know about the Colombia visa requirements for Indian citizens, the step-by-step process of applying for a Colombia visa, and some useful tips to ensure your visa process goes as smoothly as possible.

Do Indian Citizens Need a Visa for Colombia?

Yes, Indian passport holders must obtain a visa for Colombia from India. The nation does not provide visa-on-arrival services for Indian nationals. This implies that you must obtain a visa from the Colombian embassy or consulate in India before departure.

There are various categories of visas depending on the nature of your visit. These are:

• Tourist Visa (TP-11) – For travellers visiting Colombia for holidays or leisure.
• Business Visa (TP-12) – For business travel.
• Student Visa (TP-16) – For studying in Colombia.
• Work Visa (TP-14) – For working in Colombia.
• Transit Visa (TP-18) – If you are travelling through Colombia to another country.

In this blog, we will concentrate on the most used type of visa: the Tourist Visa.

What Are the Colombia Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens?

Before you begin the Colombia visa application process, it's important to be aware of the documents you'll have to provide. The Colombia visa requirements for Indian nationals are relatively simple, but it's always better to collect everything carefully to prevent delays.

Here's a brief overview of the key documents you'll require:

• Valid Passport: Your passport should have a validity of at least 6 months beyond your intended entry date into Colombia. Ensure that there is a free page for the visa stamp.
• Visa Application Form: Download the visa application form from the official website of the Colombian embassy. Fill it in correctly – any mistakes might hold up your application.
• Passport-Sized Photographs: You'll need to submit two recent passport-sized photos that meet the embassy's specifications (usually a white background, unobstructed and lighted).
• Sufficient Funds Proof: Colombia needs to ensure you can fund your stay in the country, so proof of financial stability will be necessary. This might be bank statements from the past couple of months, tax returns, or even a sponsorship letter of financial support.
• Flight Itinerary: You need to produce a flight booking containing both your arrival and departure dates. You don't have to book tickets immediately, but you need to make a reservation.
• Accommodation Details: Whether you're taking a hotel or staying with family/friends, you'll have to produce where you'll be staying while in Colombia. A hotel booking or an invitation letter from your host in Colombia suffices.
• Travel Insurance: While not necessarily required, it is advisable to take travel insurance that covers you in case of medical emergencies, cancellation of the trip, and other unexpected situations while you are there.
• Visa Fee: You will be required to pay a visa processing fee based on the type of visa you are applying for. This fee is not refundable, so make sure your application is accurate before sending it in.

The specific documents may change depending on the purpose of your visit (e.g., a business or student visa may have additional requirements). Double-check the embassy's website always to ensure you have everything in hand.

The Step-by-Step Colombia Visa Application Process

After collecting all your documents, it's time to proceed with the Colombia visa application process. Don't fret – it's quite straightforward if you stick to these steps.

1. Select the Proper Visa Type

Find out what visa you should go for before anything else. When you're in for tourism, the Tourist Visa (TP-11) is the application you should be making. In case you are going for work, study reasons, or the like, do ensure you choose the relevant visa.

2. Complete the Application Form for a Visa

Once you have determined which visa you require, go to the Colombian embassy or consulate website and download the visa application form. Complete it accurately, ensuring that all your information is consistent with your passport. Any inconsistencies may hold up your application.

3. Gather Required Documents

Double-check the requirements for a visa to Colombia for Indian nationals and ensure you have all the documents you need. If you miss even a single document, your process will get delayed, so be patient and double-check all your documents.

4. Appointment at the Embassy or Consulate

In India, you'll have to go to the Colombian embassy or consulate to apply. Depending on where you are, you may go to the embassy in New Delhi or one of the consulates in Mumbai, Bangalore, or Kolkata.

All the consulates ask you to make an appointment to hand in your visa documents. Consult the embassy website to find out what is the right procedure and whether there are further steps.

5. Hand in Your Documents and Pay the Fee

On the day of your appointment, go to the embassy or consulate with all your documents. You’ll need to pay the visa processing fee at this point. Keep in mind that this fee is non-refundable, even if your visa is denied.

6. Wait for Processing

After submitting your application, the embassy will process your visa. This can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the type of visa and the volume of applications. It’s a good idea to apply well in advance of your planned travel date.

You can check the status of your application by contacting the embassy.

7. Collect Your Visa

Once your application is approved, you’ll be notified that your visa is ready for pick-up. Double-check the visa to make sure all the details are correct, such as your name, visa type, and dates of validity.

8. Get Ready for Your Trip!

With your Colombian visa in your pocket, you are ready to venture out to this amazing nation. Don't forget to keep the passport with the visa on you while travelling.

Tips to Ensure a Seamless Colombia Visa Application

Applying for a Colombia visa can be an easy process with the right preparation—here are some indispensable tips to make the application seamless.

• Apply Early: The process takes time, and hence apply a minimum of 1-2 months beforehand to avoid eleventh-hour hustles.
• Check for Updates: Visa rules can fluctuate so do check the embassy website for the latest updates on visa requirements for Colombians for Indian citizens.
• Have All Documents Ready: Make sure all the documents that are requested are ready beforehand to avoid any delays during your embassy appointment.
• Be Honest: In case you are questioned regarding your travel plans, it is best to be honest and straightforward with your response. Any discrepancies may lead to a problem with your application.
• Consider Travel Insurance: While not required, it's always a good idea to purchase travel insurance for peace of mind while travelling.

Also Read : Brazil Visa for Indians.

Conclusion

Obtaining a visa to Colombia from India may appear to be a bit of a chore, but as long as you stick to the process, prepare the correct documents, and plan, it's something that's completely within your reach. Remember the requirements for a Colombia visa for Indian citizens, and don't rush the Colombia visa application process.

Next thing you know, you will be heading on your journey of discovery through the lovely landscapes, picturesque cities, and rich culture of Colombia. To keep a sense of peace while you are away, we have detailed travel insurance plans for medical emergencies, cancellations, and other contingencies while travelling. Have safe journeys and revel in each passing moment of the trip!

FAQs

Do Indian nationals require a visa to travel to Colombia? 

Yes, Indian nationals need to apply for a visa before travelling to Colombia.

How long does it take to process a visa for Colombia for Indian nationals? 

The processing time for a Colombia visa for Indian nationals can take a few days to several weeks, depending on the visa type.

Can I obtain a Colombia visa on arrival in India? 

No, visa-on-arrival is not available for Indian passport holders in Colombia. You will have to apply for a visa before travelling.