❌ Top 5 Mistakes When Applying for a Colombian Visa (and How to Avoid Them)
Over the past 6+ years, I’ve helped hundreds of foreigners navigate Colombia’s visa and migration system successfully. Unfortunately, I’ve also seen too many people make the same costly — and avoidable — mistakes.
If you’re thinking about applying for a Colombian visa, read this first so you can avoid the most common pitfalls.
⚠️ 1. Misunderstanding the 90-Day Tourist Stamp
This is the most frequent mistake I see.
When you enter Colombia as a tourist, your passport gets a 90-day entry stamp. That includes weekends and holidays — so count carefully.
Want to stay longer? You can request an extension for another 90 days, but only if you apply before your first 90 days are up.
💡 Tips:
- Apply for the extension at least 3 days before your stamp expires to avoid fines or denial.
- Buy a refundable ticket showing your departure plans — even if you don’t plan to use it.
- Don’t argue with Migración Colombia officers. Overstaying even by 1 day may result in fines. Being respectful goes a long way.
⚠️ 2. Submitting Outdated Documents
When applying for a Migrant or Resident Visa, certain documents (like birth certificates, marriage certificates, pension letters) must be no older than 3 months at the time of submission.
💡 Tips:
- Ask someone in your home country to get updated copies if you’re already in Colombia.
- Some countries require an authorization letter to release the documents — plan ahead.
- Before shipping, be sure to apostille or notarize them as required.
⚠️ 3. Forgetting the Apostille Stamp
Every foreign-issued document must be apostilled to be legally valid in Colombia.
- If your country is part of the Hague Apostille Convention, you can usually do this online or through a government office.
- If your country is not a member, you’ll need to:
- Notarize the document
- Authenticate it at a Colombian Consulate
⚠️ 4. Using Translations That Don’t Meet Colombian Standards
Translations must be done by a certified translator in Colombia. Since December 14, 2018, these rules apply:
- The translation must include the date.
- The translator’s signature must be notarized in Colombia.
- DIY translations or uncertified services will result in rejection.
⚠️ 5. Applying Too Late
Many applicants wait until the last minute to apply or renew — and end up stressed, fined, or stuck.
- Some visas take weeks to gather the required documentation.
- You may need documents from foreign governments or consulates, which can delay things.
- Waiting too long can force you to apply for a Salvoconducto — a short-term emergency permit — just to stay legal.
💡 Bottom Line:
Apply at least one month in advance, ideally sooner.
✅ Get Expert Help from the Start
Colombian visa rules can be complex and change often. The easiest way to save yourself time, stress, and costly mistakes is to work with someone who knows the process inside and out.
📩 Have questions? Need help?
Email me at jessy@calicapital.com — or message me on Instagram @calicapital
🔎 Want proof?
👉 Read our client reviews here
And don’t forget to check out:
➡️ The different Colombian visa types and how to qualify