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UK removes visitor visa requirement for Colombian travellers

• The United Kingdom is removing its visitor visa requirement for Colombian nationals as of 9 November 2022
• This will mean that Colombians can travel to the UK and stay for up to six months for tourism, business, or study

Colombians have long been able to travel to the 26 European countries in the Schengen Area without a visa. But the same has not been true of the United Kingdom, which has maintained its visitor visa requirement for Colombian nationals. That visa requirement has been accompanied as well by processing times of up to 60 days, and an additional expense for visa fees (US$173 per applicant).

For all of those reasons, the need for a visitor visa has been seen as an irritant and an impediment to Colombian travel to the UK. And so it was big news this week when the UK Ambassador to Colombia George Hodgson announced the removal of the visitor visa requirement, effective 9 November 2022. “The UK will open up its doors to tourism and other sectors for Colombians,” said the Ambassador during a 18 October press conference. “This is a great step forward in our bilateral relations."

¡Tenemos una gran noticia! A partir del 9 de noviembre de 2022, los nacionales 🇨🇴 no necesitarán una visa de visitante para viajar al 🇬🇧 por periodos de hasta 6 meses. Visita 👉 https://t.co/2XtEezv4A5 para revisar toda la información. ¡Reino Unido los está esperando! #UKCOL pic.twitter.com/eOoDgnb0S7 — Embajador Británico - George Hodgson (@HodgsonGeorge) October 18, 2022

Colombians will now be able travel to the UK as " standard visitors ", which means they can stay in the country for up to six months, for "tourism, business, study (courses up to 6 months) and other permitted activities." Needless to say, the move improves the competitive position of institutions and schools in the UK that aim to recruit Colombian students for short-term programmes.

The British embassy in Bogota reports that roughly 12,000 Colombians travelled to the UK in the first half of 2022, and projects that there are between 24,000 and 25,000 Colombian visitors annually – a number that is expected to rise now that the visa requirement has been removed. Ambassador Hodgson added that any Colombian travellers that have already applied for a visitor visa, can now withdraw their application and apply for a refund of their visa fees.

For additional background, please see:

• " UK ELT shows real gains through second quarter of 2022 "
• " UK resumes priority visa processing "
• " UK extends visa waiver programme for Gulf states "
• South & Central America
• UK Visa Information

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UK ends tourism visa requirements for Colombians

In a major diplomatic victory for President Gustavo Petro, three months into a new administration, the country’s first leftist leader announced the UK will eliminate tourist visa requirements for Colombians as from November 9, 2022.

The announcement was formally made Tuesday during a press conference at the Bogotá residence of UK Ambassador George Hodgson. “The UK will open up its doors to tourism and other sectors for Colombians,” highlighted the Ambassador. “This is a great step forward in our bilateral relations with #UKCOL.”

The lifting of tourist visa requirements for all Colombians puts an end to an expensive process and long wait times for applicants – up to 60 days – in order to get approval through the UK Foreign Office’s centralized processing center VSF Global. The move will also boost the numbers of Colombian tourists wanting to visit the UK and connect to countries in the Schengen bloc that do not require entry visas for Colombians.

According to Migración Colombia, the country’s migration entity, between January and September 2022, 45,788 Colombians traveled to the UK, of which 14,457 went as tourists and 24,932 as residents.

The end of visas at a cost of US$173 per applicant will also boost the passenger load capacity of the only airline – Avianca – operating a direct Bogotá – London Heathrow flight, and could signal the return to the country of the UK’s flagship carrier British Airways.

President Petro broke the news at the end of a bank holiday weekend, stating on Twitter: “I  thank the United Kingdom for its decision to eliminate the tourism visa requirement for Colombians.” Former President Iván Duque also welcomed the decision after “many months of hard work,” adding that his government signed with former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson the post-Brexit Free Trade Agreement.

The historic decision to permit Colombians visa-free movement within the United Kingdom came during the same week President Petro requested the United States Government eliminate tourism requirements for Colombians wanting to travel stateside.

The current wait time for first time applicants for a B1/B2 visa, as well as renewals, is more than two years once official paperwork has been received by the US Embassy in Bogotá. The Colombian Government will make the formal request to President Joe Biden through its Embassy in Washington D.C.

The UK’s decision greatly facilitates travel for the expat community resident in Colombia, and Colombian spouses, partners and children. Should the US follow the momentous UK decision, the only Western country that would require tourist visas for Colombians is Canada, and government that is grappling with clearing long visa delays for both tourists and students.

The standard visit regulations allow Colombians to enter the UK up to six months at a time.

Even though the new Petro administration will take credit for the end to visa restrictions, the process was initiated during the two-term government of President Juan Manuel Santos, and recipient of the 2016 Nobel Peace Prize for ending more than a half-century long internal conflict with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia guerrilla.

The City Paper was founded in 2008 as Colombia’s first free English language newspaper. A decade later, it was awarded the country’s Manuel Murillo Toro medal in communications for contributing to informed and objective coverage of Colombia.

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• Visas and immigration
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How to apply for a visa to come to the UK

Choose a visa.

You may need a visa to come to the UK to study, work, visit or join family.

There are different visas depending on:

• where you come from
• why you want to come to the UK
• how long you want to stay for
• your personal circumstances and skills

Before you apply, you must check if you need a visa and what type you need. Depending on your nationality, you might not need a visa to visit or transit through the UK.

Your application must be approved before you travel.

You do not need to apply for a visa if you’re an Irish citizen.

If you want to visit the UK

Apply for a Standard Visitor visa to visit the UK for up to 6 months. For example:

• for a holiday or to see family and friends
• for a business trip or meeting
• to do a short course of study

You must apply for a Marriage Visitor visa if you want to visit the UK to get married or register a civil partnership.

If you have a visitor visa you cannot take a job in the UK.

If you’re travelling through the UK

You might need a visa if you’re travelling through the UK on your way to another country, for example if you have a layover between flights.

Apply for a visa to travel through the UK .

If you want to study in the UK

Your course length, type and place of study affect which visa to apply for.

A Standard Visitor visa lets you do a short course of study that lasts no longer than 6 months.

A Short-term study visa lets you come to the UK to study an English language course that is over 6 months and up to 11 months.

A Student visa is usually for a longer course. You must be sponsored by a licensed college or university and have a confirmed place. On this visa, you may be able to do some work.

A Child Student visa is for 4 to 17 year olds who want to study at an independent school. If you’re 16 or over, this visa lets you do some work.

If you want to work in the UK

You can work in the UK on a short or long-term basis with a work visa. There are many types of work visa .

The visa you need depends upon:

• your skills and qualifications
• if you have a job offer and sponsorship
• if you want to bring your family with you
• what you’ll be doing - for example sporting, charitable or religious work

You can set up a business with an Innovator Founder visa .

If you want to join family in the UK

If you’re a spouse, partner or family member of someone who has British citizenship or settlement in the UK, you can apply for a family visa to join them. They may need to show that they can support you financially.

You may be able to apply for indefinite leave to remain ( ILR ) after a set amount of time living in the UK.

If your family member is in the UK on a visa

You may be able to apply for a visa to join a family member who’s in the UK on a visa. They must be either:

• your spouse or partner
• your parent if you’re 18 or under

Check what visa you’ll need to join them.

Family reunion visas for refugees

If you were separated from your partner or child when you were forced to leave your country, they can apply to join you in the UK.

Your family members can apply if you have been given asylum or 5 years’ humanitarian protection, and not have British citizenship.

If your family member is from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

You can apply for a free EU Settlement Scheme family permit to come to the UK if you have a close family member who:

• was living in the UK by 31 December 2020
• has pre-settled or settled status
• you had a relationship with by 31 December 2020 (unless you’re applying for a child who was born or adopted after this date)

Close family members include your spouse or civil partner, child, grandchild, parent or grandparent.

A family permit lets you live, work and study in the UK for up to 6 months. You can apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to stay in the UK after your family permit expires. You usually need to apply within 3 months of arriving in the UK.

Other ways to get permission to live in the UK

If you’re from the eu, switzerland, norway, iceland or liechtenstein.

If you started living in the UK by 31 December 2020, you may be able to apply to the free EU Settlement Scheme instead of applying for a visa. The deadline to apply was 30 June 2021, but you can still apply if you can show reasonable grounds for the delay in applying.

Check if you can still apply to the EU Settlement Scheme .

You can only apply from outside the UK if you have a valid passport or national identity card with a biometric chip.

Commonwealth citizens

You can apply for an Ancestry visa to work in the UK if you have a British grandparent and meet other eligibility criteria.

You may have right of abode to live in the UK.

If you’re a Commonwealth citizen and cannot prove your right to be in the UK, read about the Windrush scheme .

Returning residents

You’ll need to apply for a returning resident visa to come back to the UK if one of the following is true:

you had indefinite leave to remain under the EU Settlement Scheme (‘settled status’) and left the UK for more than 5 continuous years (or 4 continuous years if you’re a Swiss citizen or their family member)

you had permanent permission to stay in the UK (‘indefinite leave to remain’) but it was not under the EU Settlement Scheme and you left the UK for more than 2 years

Other visas

There may be another visa that’s right for you based on your circumstances. Check if you need a visa and what other visas you’re eligible for.

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UK Scraps Tourist Visa for Colombians

Colombian tourists can now spend up to six months as tourists in the UK without requiring an entry visa

UK scraps tourist visa requirement for Colombians A double-decker bus in London. (Bloomberg/Hollie Adams)

Read this story in

Bogotá — Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro has confirmed that the United Kingdom has scrapped the visa requirement for Colombian tourists to the country, and which was ratified Tuesday by the British ambassador to Colombia, George Hodgson.

“Without a doubt, the elimination of visitor visas, a process we have been working on for quite some time, marks a big step in our thriving relationship between the United Kingdom and Colombia,” Hodgson said.

The ambassador said at a press conference in Bogotá that this decision was taken after “an extensive and rigorous process of evaluation by different institutions of the British Government”.

Following the decision, Petro expressed his gratitude to the British government in a tweet:

Agradezco al Reino Unido por su decisión de quitar la exigencia de Visa de turismo a los visitantes colombianos. — Gustavo Petro (@petrogustavo) October 18, 2022

“With this announcement the United Kingdom becomes more accessible to all Colombians who want to discover and enjoy its rich culture, long history and long landscape. And beyond tourism with this change, the country will open its doors to new business opportunities in various sectors. We look forward to sharing the UK with even more Colombians,” the British ambassador in Bogotá said.

Hodgson said the British government is aware that there is growing interest in the UK as a study destination.

In this regard, the ambassador clarified that the need for visas to work, study and settle in the UK remains unchanged, however.

According to figures from the British embassy, until June of this year around 12,000 Colombians had traveled to the UK, and the projection is that each year there are between 24,000 to 25,000 Colombian visitors.

“With this change we expect the number to rise”, Hodgson said.

The lifting of the visa requirement for tourists takes effect from November 9, from which Colombians visiting the United Kingdom for tourism purposes will be able to stay for a period of up to six months.

Meanwhile, Colombians “who have already applied for a visa and have not yet provided their biometric data, i.e. their fingerprints, can now withdraw their application and apply for a refund of the visa fee through the British government website,” Hodgson said.

In a statement, the Colombian government welcomed this decision, “which puts the country on a par with the UK’s strategic partners, and recognizes it as a sign of confidence in Colombia, its nationals and its institutions”.

“This relaxation in the British visa regime consolidates and further strengthens bilateral relations between the two countries, as it will significantly boost tourism, trade, culture, among many other components of the intense and rich bilateral agenda. Economic and trade relations are based on the Business Continuity Agreement and the Bilateral Agreement for the Promotion and Protection of Investments, which will be boosted by this decision of the British authorities”, the government added.

“The UK is one of Colombia’s main partners, as evidenced by its unrestricted support for the implementation of the 2016 peace agreement and its significant contributions to the protection of the environment, in particular the Amazon,” it said.

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UK visitor visas scrapped for Colombians in ELT boost

The British government has announced that Colombians visiting the UK will no longer need a visa from November 9, in a landmark move that could see an influx of Colombians pursuing ELT courses and short programs.

The UK ambassador to Colombia announced the news via Twitter  on October 18.

“It is obviously very welcome news that students from Colombia will be able to come to the UK to learn English and experience all we have to offer much more easily,” Annie Wright, marketing communications director at English UK , told The PIE News .

“Colombia in particular has been an important market for many of our members,” she continued.

In his tweet, British ambassador to Colombia George Hodgson said, “the UK is waiting for you”.

¡Tenemos una gran noticia! A partir del 9 de noviembre de 2022, los nacionales 🇨🇴 no necesitarán una visa de visitante para viajar al 🇬🇧 por periodos de hasta 6 meses. Visita 👉 https://t.co/2XtEezv4A5 para revisar toda la información. ¡Reino Unido los está esperando! #UKCOL pic.twitter.com/eOoDgnb0S7 — Embajador Británico – George Hodgson (@HodgsonGeorge) October 18, 2022

A document shared on LinkedIn by Marco Magalhaes, associate sales and business development director of the New College Group , said that the British Embassy of Bogotá was “delighted to share” the news.

“In proceedings before the British Parliament on Tuesday, October 18 2022, the decision to eliminate visitor visas was approved after an extensive and rigorous evaluation process by various institutions of the British government that we have been working with for a long time,” the document reads.

Magalhaes himself told The PIE that an increase in enrolment from Colombia could even be seen “in the next three months”.

“We saw big excitement after the announcement was released by local news. The UK will be again a strong market for Colombia,” he said.

“The UK will probably come back to its popularity and chosen destination status so we will have more Colombians in our UK school. The fact other destinations are taking longer than expected to issue visas for language students means the UK will also become a competitive and stronger market among agents in Colombia, due to its facilities, great quality of educators and variety of great locations in the UK,” Magalhaes explained.

“The UK will be again a strong market for Colombia”

The document also states that Guyana and Peru will also benefit from the decision, with their visitor visas also being scrapped.

“This is a great opportunity for UK institutions to get some part of the market,” Veronica Bustamante, director at Grasshopper , told The PIE.

“I also believe that will be good for professionals looking for short executive programs, and summer programs in the UK will rise a lot and perhaps will affect summer programs in the US and Canada,” she predicted.

“With this announcement, the UK will become more accessible to Colombians that want to discover and enjoy its rich culture, its long history and its beautiful landscapes. And as well as tourism, the country will open its doors to new business opportunities in countless sectors,” the document continued.

Those opportunities for the ELT sector could be extremely fruitful, as Magalhaes detailed, but may take longer than hoped, according to SpeakUp London CEO Farhan Quraishi.

“The news has been well received amongst ETOs and students, however, due to the Peso still not reaching pre-pandemic levels the sentiment is that little will change in the near future in student booking numbers,” he said.

“Of course we will see an eventual uptake in visitors to the UK with less red-tape and a significant saving on application fee and other associated costs for short courses.

“Colombian nationals who visit friends, family and tourism will most definitely translate into an increase in bookings, but marginally,” Quraishi added.

It was announced in June that 2021 had been an encouraging year for Colombians wanting ELT, having contributed 1,832 students in 2021, and was labelled a “booming market for English language training” by EnglishUSA head Cheryl Delk-Le-Good.

In Canada, Colombia is also in the top 10 source countries for ELT , according to agencies surveyed in researched conducted for Languages Canada by BONARD.

Australia, however, lost some of its Latin American market share in ELT to Canada, possibly helping Canada’s encouraging performance. But, with the UK now easier to visit, some predict that Colombians may change their minds about destination countries.

“It’s a positive step towards showing the UK as an open and welcome destination”

“According to ETOs and students, the biggest pull factor for other study destinations over the UK still remains the ability to work part-time whilst studying. It’s a positive step towards showing the UK as an open and welcome destination; however the fact remains that other destinations such as Ireland or Canada will always have the competitive edge until work rights are permitted,” Quraishi concluded.

The document goes on to say that Colombians who have already applied for a visitor visa to enter the UK but have not yet supplied biometric data, such as fingerprints, can now withdraw their application and request a refund for the visa fee by visiting the government’s website .

It also stresses that requirements for work, study (university programs) and settlement in the UK are still in effect.

“This announcement marks a big step in the UK-Colombia relationship. We hope to see an increase in the number of Colombian visitors to the UK in due course. See you soon!” the document concludes.

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UK Visa Requirements for Colombian Travelers

Traveling to the United Kingdom as a Colombian citizen requires a visa, which can be obtained through the UK government’s official website. The process of obtaining a visa can be complex and time-consuming, but by understanding the requirements, documents needed, processing time, and fees, you can make your application successful.

Types of Visas Available for Colombian Nationals

There are several types of visas available for Colombian nationals traveling to the United Kingdom. The most common type is a Standard Visitor Visa, which allows you to travel to the UK for tourism, business, or to visit friends and family for up to six months. If you plan to study or work in the UK, you will need to apply for a Student Visa or a Work Visa, respectively. Other types of visas include a Transit Visa, a Marriage Visitor Visa, and a Parent of a Tier 4 Child Visa.

Required Documents for UK Visa Applications

When applying for a UK visa as a Colombian citizen, you will need to provide several documents, including a valid passport, a completed visa application form, a recent passport-style photograph, and proof of your travel plans, such as flight and hotel bookings. You will also need to provide evidence of your financial status, such as bank statements or payslips, to show that you can support yourself during your stay in the UK. If you are visiting friends or family, you will also need to provide an invitation letter from your host.

If you are applying for a Student Visa or a Work Visa, you will need to provide additional documents, such as a confirmation of acceptance for studies or a certificate of sponsorship from your employer. You may also be required to provide evidence of your English language proficiency.

Processing Time and Fees for UK Visas

The processing time for UK visas can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and the time of year. It is recommended that you apply for your visa at least three months before your planned travel date to allow sufficient time for processing. The fees for UK visas also vary depending on the type of visa and the length of your stay. As of 2021, the fee for a Standard Visitor Visa is £95 for a six-month stay, £361 for a two-year stay, and £655 for a five-year stay.

Tips for a Successful UK Visa Application

To ensure a successful UK visa application, it is essential to provide all the required documents and information accurately and completely. You should also ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your planned arrival in the UK. It is also advisable to provide additional supporting documents, such as proof of your ties to your home country, such as a job offer letter or property ownership documents.

To maximize your chances of success, it is also recommended that you apply for a visa well in advance of your planned travel date, as this will give you time to rectify any mistakes or provide additional information if required. It is also important to be honest and transparent in your application, as any inconsistencies or discrepancies can lead to your application being rejected.

Traveling to the UK as a Colombian Citizen

Traveling to the UK as a Colombian citizen can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it is important to ensure that you have all the necessary documents and information before you start your journey. By understanding the visa requirements, types of visas available, required documents, processing time, and fees, you can make your application successful and enjoy a hassle-free trip to the UK. With careful planning and preparation, you can make the most of your visit to this beautiful country and create unforgettable memories.

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Colombians will no longer need a visa to travel to the UK

For some years now, Colombians who wanted to travel to Europe stopped requiring a Schengen visa, so it was possible to travel to more than 30 countries on the old continent without that requirement. However, the United Kingdom remained one of the countries that maintained this requirement of Colombians.

Well, this holiday Monday, President Gustavo Petro announced very good news for all Colombian travelers, and that is that the United Kingdom eliminated the visa requirement for Colombian tourists: “I thank the United Kingdom for its decision to remove the requirement tourist visa to Colombian visitors”.

Agradezco al Reino Unido por su decisión de quitar la exigencia de Visa de turismo a los visitantes colombianos. — Gustavo Petro (@petrogustavo) October 18, 2022

In this way, and as with other countries that no longer require the schengen visa, Colombian citizens will be able to make short-term visits for tourism purposes, visits to friends or family, attendance at events or cultural and sports exchanges, meetings business, journalistic or media coverage, medical treatment and short-term studies.

Please note that the visa waiver does not allow you to work, seek work, settle, or stay for more than 90 days in a 180-day period.

It is expected that in the next few hours the Foreign Ministry will give more details of the announcement made by Gustavo Petro.

Countries in Europe to which Colombians can travel

Germany, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark (excluding Greenland and the Faroe Islands), Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Estonia, Finland, France (excluding overseas territories), Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Sweden and Switzerland.

Now the United Kingdom joins it.

Keep reading

Can Colombians Travel to the UK Without a Visa in 2024

As of 9th November 2022, Colombian nationals no longer need a visitor visa to enter the UK, making travel for business or pleasure much more convenient and less stressful.

The Elimination of the UK Visa Requirement in 2022

The UK Government, in its efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and increase tourism, announced the removal of its visitor visa requirement for Colombian nationals from 9th November 2022 onwards.

Consequently, Colombians can now travel to the UK without obtaining a visitor visa beforehand, making the UK a much more accessible destination for business trips, holidays, or to visit family and friends.

What Are The Terms of Visa-Free Travel?

While the visa requirement is no longer in place, Colombian travelers are required to comply with specific terms for visa-free travel.

Colombians can stay in the UK for up to six months without a visa. During their stay, they may take part in permitted activities such as tourism, certain business activities, and short academic courses.

It’s important to note that while Colombians can now travel to the UK without a visa, they cannot work or study for an extended period. For such purposes, the appropriate work or study visa is still required.

What Are The UK Travel Requirements?

Despite the visa requirement being lifted, Colombians must still meet several conditions to enter the UK. These include:

• Passport : A valid passport is necessary for travel, and it should be valid for the entirety of the traveler’s stay in the UK.
• Proof of Funds : Travelers may be required to show proof of funds to support themselves during their stay in the UK.
• Reason for Visit : Though a visa is no longer needed, travelers may still be asked about the purpose of their visit upon arrival.

Does This Visa Exemption Apply to Colombian Citizens Living Outside Colombia?

The visa exemption for Colombians traveling to the UK is primarily based on citizenship rather than residence. Therefore, it applies to Colombian citizens regardless of their country of residence.

• Citizenship as the Key Factor : Colombian citizens living abroad are generally eligible for the same visa exemptions as those living in Colombia, as long as they hold a valid Colombian passport.
• Validity of Passport : Ensure that your Colombian passport is valid for the duration of your visit to the UK.
• Residence Considerations : While residency outside Colombia doesn’t affect eligibility for the exemption, the purpose of your visit and your ties to your country of residence may be considered in assessing your intent to leave the UK after your visit.

Can a Colombian Citizen Work in the UK Without a Visa?

Colombian citizens are not permitted to work in the UK without obtaining the appropriate work visa, despite any visa-free travel arrangements for tourism or short visits.

• Requirement for Work Visa : To engage in any form of employment in the UK, Colombian citizens must apply for and obtain a work visa that corresponds to the nature of their intended employment.
• Restrictions on Visa-Free Entry : Visa-free entry, if applicable, is typically limited to tourism, family visits, or certain business activities, and does not include the right to work.
• Applying for a Work Visa : Those seeking to work in the UK should explore the various categories of work visas available and apply for the one that best suits their situation and the type of work they intend to do.

Can a Colombian Citizen Study in the UK Without a Visa?

For Colombian citizens wishing to study in the UK, the need for a student visa depends on the length and type of the study program.

• Short Courses : Colombians may be able to take short courses of study, such as language classes or professional workshops, without a student visa, under certain visa-free entry conditions.
• Long-Term Studies Require a Visa : For longer academic programs, such as undergraduate or postgraduate degrees, Colombian citizens must apply for a UK student visa.
• Visa Application Requirements : Applying for a student visa involves providing evidence of acceptance into a UK educational institution, proof of financial support, and meeting other requirements set by the UK Home Office.

Contact Information and Resources

For Colombians traveling to the UK, having the right resources at their fingertips is crucial. Below, we’ve compiled some important contact information and resources that can provide assistance during your travel preparation process:

• British Embassy Bogota : If you have specific questions or concerns about your travel, you can reach out to the British Embassy in Bogota. Their official website also offers valuable information about travel advisories and the latest news that might affect your trip.Address: Carrera 9, No.76-49, Bogotá, Colombia Telephone: +57 (1) 326 8300 Website: British Embassy Bogota
• UK Government Website : The official UK government website is your go-to resource for the most accurate and up-to-date information. It includes detailed information about visa requirements, application procedures, fees, and processing times. Visit UK Visas and Immigration for comprehensive guidance.
• UK Visa Application Center : Colombia has a UK Visa Application Center in Bogota where you can submit your visa application and attend your appointment.Address: UK Visa Application Centre – Bogota, Colombia, Torre Cusezar Calle 72 No. 10-07 Oficina 301 Website: VFS Global
• International Air Transport Association (IATA) : IATA provides information about travel restrictions worldwide. They offer a TravelCentre tool that gives details on travel restrictions, health requirements, customs, currency, and airport information.

These resources can provide you with the most recent updates and help ensure a smooth journey to the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long can a colombian citizen stay in the uk without a visa.

Colombian citizens can stay in the UK for up to six months without a visa for tourism, certain business activities, or short academic courses.

If I am a Colombian citizen with a UK spouse, can I live in the UK without a visa?

While you can visit the UK without a visa, if you intend to live in the UK, you would need to apply for a ‘Family of a Settled Person’ visa.

What happens if a Colombian overstay their visa-free period in the UK?

Overstaying your welcome can lead to severe consequences, including deportation, an official ban from re-entering the UK for a certain period, and a negative impact on future visa applications.

Do Colombian minors need permission to travel to the UK?

While Colombian minors do not require a visa, they may need a letter of consent or other documentation if they are traveling without their parents or legal guardians.

Do Colombians need a visa for other types of visits to the UK, like medical treatment or academic research?

Yes, for activities beyond tourism, business meetings, and short academic courses, Colombians will need to apply for the relevant visa type. This could include visas for medical treatment, academic research, long-term study, and work.

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Guide to Colombian Nationals Acquiring a UK Visa

For Colombian citizens planning to travel to the United Kingdom , obtaining a visa in advance is a requirement. At e-Visa, we streamline this process, making it significantly more convenient than the traditional approach. Our user-friendly short form allows you to provide the necessary information to the embassy or consulate. 

Following this, you can request a personal interview date. The best part? This e ntire process takes just a few minutes! Transform your UK travel into an unforgettable adventure, eliminating the struggle of visa applications. Discover more about the procedure for acquiring a UK paper visa for Colombian citizens today.

Visa Requirement for Colombian Citizens Travelling to the UK

For Colombian citizens planning a trip to the United Kingdom, understanding the United Kingdom visa requirements is vital. Currently, Colombian citizens must secure a visa before entering the UK. This necessitates completing a visa application process to obtain the necessary authorization for lawful entry.

The visa requirement holds significant importance in international travel, serving to ensure compliance with the immigration regulations of the host country . In the case of the UK, Colombian citizens are obligated to obtain a pre-arranged visa to regulate their entry. This visa acts as an official document granting permission to cross the UK border and stay for a specific duration, as stipulated by the visa's terms.

As regulations can evolve, staying informed through official sources such as the government's immigration and visa websites is prudent. Commencing the visa application well in advance of your intended travel dates is essential. Processing times can vary, and having all the requisite documents prepared is critical for a smooth experience.

Simplified Process for Obtaining a UK Paper Visa through e-Visa

Obtaining a UK paper visa for Colombian citizens has been made simpler and more convenient through the services provided by the online platform. This streamlined process ensures that you can navigate the visa application journey with ease and efficiency. 

Here's a breakdown of the simplified steps:

• Application Initiation

To start the process, you can visit the online website dedicated to the paper visas. On this platform, you'll find a user-friendly interface designed to make the application process straightforward.

• Online Form

You'll be guided through an online form where you'll need to provide essential information. This information could include personal details, travel plans, accommodation arrangements, employment information, and more. It's crucial to ensure that all information you provide is accurate and matches your supporting documentation.

As part of the application process, you'll need to make the required payment . The cost typically includes the visa fee, a service fee, and any additional fees for expedited processing if you choose that option.

• Document Upload

You may need to upload scanned copies of necessary documents, such as your biometric passport, travel history, employment details, and any other information required by the authorities.

• Review and Submission

Before submitting your application, take a moment to review all the information you've provided . Ensuring accuracy at this stage is important to avoid any issues during the processing phase.

• Processing Options

The online platform often provides different processing speed options tailored to your preferences and travel timeline. These could include standard processing, rapid processing, and super-fast processing. Choose the one that best fits your needs.

• Confirmation and Updates

Once your application is submitted, you'll receive a confirmation email from e-Visa. This will contain details about your application status and the subsequent steps in the process.

• Embassy or Consulate Appointment

After your application is processed online, you'll receive information about your appointment date at the embassy or consulate. This appointment is typically for a personal interview, where you might need to provide additional documentation.

• Final Steps

Attend your embassy or consulate appointment on the scheduled date. Present any required documentation and attend the interview as instructed. Following this step, the authorities will review your application and make a decision on whether to grant you the visa.

Validity Period of UK Paper Visas for Colombian Citizens

When Colombian citizens are issued a UK paper visa, it remains valid for a specific duration after the visa's issuance . In the case of UK paper visas for Colombian citizens, this validity period spans 180 days. During this period, the visa holder has the opportunity to utilise the visa for travel to the United Kingdom.

Entry Frequency for UK Paper Visas

Colombian citizens who hold a UK paper visa are provided a valuable privilege - that of multiple entries into the United Kingdom. This means that within the visa's validity period, the visa holder can enter the UK multiple times. This flexibility enables travellers to make multiple trips, whether for tourism, business, or other purposes, without the need to apply for a new visa each time they wish to enter the country.

Maximum Permissible Stay in the UK with a Paper Visa

For Colombian citizens holding a UK paper visa, there is a limit on the cumulative duration of their stay in the United Kingdom. This cumulative stay can extend up to 180 days. It's important to note that this duration applies to the combined time spent within the UK during multiple visits made within the visa's validity period.

These three aspects - the validity period, entry frequency, and maximum permissible sta y - collectively define the parameters within which Colombian citizens can utilise their UK paper visas. Adhering to these guidelines ensures compliance with immigration regulations and a smooth travel experience within the United Kingdom.

Cost Breakdown of UK Paper Visas for Colombian Citizens

The total expense of the UK paper visa for Colombian citizens encompasses three components: the visa fee, a service fee, and an additional fee for expedited processing , if chosen. The expenses differ based on the selected processing type:

Processing Time for UK Paper Visas for Colombian Citizens

Initiating the UK paper visa application process for Colombian citizens should ideally commence a minimum of 8 weeks before the intended travel date. Processing duration via the online platform varies according to your chosen processing speed. Additionally, the UK embassy or consulate typically requires approximately fifteen business days from application submission. Consider the subsequent processing times:

- Standard processing: Takes 30 days

- Rapid processing: Also takes 30 days

- Super-fast processing: Requires 30 days as well.

Requirements for Applying for a UK Paper Visa

Initiating the process of obtaining a UK paper visa for Colombian citizens involves adhering to several important requirements. These prerequisites collectively form a comprehensive application package that ensures a smooth and successful visa application process:

• Passport: A crucial document, your biometric passport, must be scanned and included as part of your application. This passport will serve as your identification throughout the visa process and during your travel.

• Accommodation Details: Even if your stay arrangements are not yet finalised, you are required to provide information about your intended accommodations in the UK. This demonstrates your preparedness and intention to abide by the country's immigration regulations.
• Additional Marital Information: Depending on your marital status, you might need to furnish information about your spouse or dependent family members . This detail provides a more complete picture of your circumstances.
• Employment Details: Sharing details about your employment is crucial. This includes information about your employer, job position, and monthly or annual income . These details help assess your financial stability and purpose of travel.
• Travel History: Providing a thorough account of your travel history from the past ten years offers insight into your experience with international travel. This can influence the decision-making process regarding your visa application.
• Criminal History: Disclosing any civil or migratory offences you might have committed is essential. This transparency demonstrates your honesty and compliance with the visa application process.
• Payment Method: Visa application fees are an integral part of the process. You can make payments using a debit card, credit card, or PayPal, as per the accepted payment methods.
• Email Address: An active and valid email address is crucial. You will receive important communication regarding your application, including details about your embassy or consulate interview, through this email.

Do Colombian citizens need a visa to travel to the United Kingdom?

Yes, Colombian citizens are required to obtain a visa before travelling to the United Kingdom.

What type of visa do Colombian citizens need for the UK?

Colombian citizens typically need a UK paper visa to travel to the United Kingdom.

How long is the validity of a UK paper visa for Colombian citizens?

The validity of a UK paper visa for Colombian citizens is 180 days from the date of issuance.

Can I enter the UK multiple times with a paper visa?

Yes, Colombian citizens holding a UK paper visa are granted the privilege of multiple entries into the United Kingdom.

What is the maximum duration I can stay in the UK with a paper visa?

The maximum cumulative stay allowed in the UK with a paper visa is up to 180 days.

What are the requirements for applying for a UK paper visa?

The requirements for a UK paper visa application typically include a scanned biometric passport, accommodation details, information about marital status, employment details, travel history, criminal history, payment method, and a valid email address.

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Colombia Entry Requirements for British Citizens

Colombia Visa Needed

(for stay of up to 90 days)

Colombia Check Mig Needed

UK nationals do not need a visa to visit Colombia for up to 90 days for leisure or tourism. Air passengers do, however, need to complete the Colombia Check-Mig form.

The immigration form is mandatory for all travelers arriving to and departing from Colombia on an international flight. You must fill it out online before you travel.

You can find more information regarding the Check Mig and other entry requirements for Colombia in this guide.

Entering Colombia from the UK: Papers and Requirements

To travel to Colombia, UK nationals must meet all Colombia entry requirements .

UK citizens need:

• Valid British passport
• Check Mig form
• Visa (if applicable)

Colombia visa exemptions for British citizens

As a British citizen , you can visit Colombia visa-exempt for up to 90 days. This period can be extended up to a maximum of 180 days. Short-term visits are possible for various reasons, including tourism and business.

For long-term stays and reasons such as work or study, you need a visa. Various visa types are available through Colombian embassies or consulates. Each visa type has specific requirements and processing times. You must apply well ahead of your trip.

Key facts about the Colombia Check-Mig for British citizens

Here’s what you should know about the Colombia Check-Mig for UK nationals:

• You complete the form online and receive approval by email
• You must provide personal details, passport data, and some information about your trip
• You need 2 separate forms, one to enter and one to exit Colombia
• It is not a visa. You need a Check-Mig for Colombia even if you are visiting visa-free

The form was introduced in response to COVID-19 and acted as a passenger health locator form. COVID-19 restrictions for Colombia have ended, but the form remains in use .

It is now a standard immigration form. It does not include questions about your COVID-19 vaccination status.

Guide to Applying for Check Mig From the UK

UK nationals can fill out the online application form for the Colombian Check Mig through this site in just a few minutes. You need to provide the following information:

• Personal information (name, place and date of birth, nationality, gender)
• Passport data (document number, and date of issue and expiration date)
• Travel information (entry or exit date, reason for the trip, flight number and airline, accommodation details)
• Contact details including an email address

You can then pay the fees and submit your form. You’ll receive a confirmation email that you need to board your flight to Colombia and at immigration control when you arrive.

Tip: Double-check all your information before clicking submit. The details you provide must match your British passport exactly.

How soon before traveling to Colombia should UK nationals get the Check-Mig?

Through this site, british can apply for Colombia Check-Mig as soon as they know their travel plans. Most applications are processed and approved in 1 to 2 days, but they should allow extra time in case of delays.

If UK nationals need Check-Mig urgently, select the Priority Service for guaranteed processing in just 1 hour.

Do UK Travelers need a Check Mig to leave Colombia?

Yes, UK travelers need a Check Mig form when departing Colombia as well . The application process for the departure form is similar to the entry one.

At the beginning of the application form, travelers will be able to select departure and proceed to fill out the form with the required information.

Is it Safe to Travel to Colombia as a British Citizen?

Thousands of British citizens visit Colombia every year and the majority of these trips are trouble-free .

However, as when visiting any foreign country, travelers from the UK should remain vigilant of their surroundings and check the government’s travel advisory for up-to-date advice before any trip .

The UK government currently advises British citizens against travel to Venezuela’s border regions with Colombia. You should not use the Colombia-Venezuela land border crossings .

There are several areas of Colombia that you should only visit as part of an organized tour.

Political demonstrations may take place in Bogota. As a foreign national in Colombia, you should avoid these demonstrations.

Travel facts about UK travelers to Colombia

51,540 British tourists arrived in Colombia in 2018 . This made the UK the 7th most-represented nationality among non-Latin American tourist arrivals and the 15th most-represented nationality among international tourist arrivals.

Following a significant decrease in the number of visitors in 2020 due to COVID-19 and related entry restrictions, Colombia reopened to tourism in 2021 and welcomed over 2 million visitors in that year alone.

According to the Colombian Statistical Bulletin of Migratory Flows, 9,592 British nationals traveled to Colombia in 2021, making the UK the 6th most-represented nationality among European tourist arrivals .

A number of British nationals have also decided to make Colombia their permanent country of residence. For example, there were 1,322 Britons living in Colombia in 2019 (Source: the Colombian National Population and Housing Census).

Frequently Asked Questions for British Traveles to Colombia

Do i need a check mig form to leave colombia.

Yes, UK travelers need a Check Mig form when departing Colombia as well . The application process for the departure form is similar to the entry one. At the beginning of the application form, travelers will be able to select departure and proceed to fill out the form with the required information.

Thousands of British citizens visit Colombia every year and the majority of these trips are trouble-free . However, as when visiting any foreign country, travelers from the UK should remain vigilant of their surroundings and check the government’s travel advisory for up-to-date advice before any trip.