Starting in November, Colombian citizens will be able to enter United Kingdom without the need for a visa visitors or tourism

In an interview with Portfolio, the British Ambassador to Colombia explain some aspects of this decision.

(See: Thinking of traveling to the UK? It costs a pound).

Since when did Colombians wanting to enter the UK stop asking for visas?

As of 9 November 2022, citizens of Colombia will not need a visitor visa to travel to the UK.

Will the decision remain only on tourist visas or will there be the possibility of abolishing visas on other aspects, such as for business?

visitor visa it goes beyond tourism: it includes visits to the UK for a period of up to 6 months during which a wide range of activities can be carried out, including business and even the right to take short courses. But, for people who want to keep workingsettled in Great Britain or studied a longer course, regime visa will be maintained and is not currently intended to change it.

Why was the decision made to eliminate tourist visas for Colombia?

We’ve been working on this process for several years, and we appreciate the cooperation and commitment of the various governments, ambassadors, and officials who have made it possible. Colombia is a strategic and very important ally for us. It is a way to strengthen relations between our two countries. We understand that without requiring a visitor visa, we are expanding tourism opportunities, cultural exchanges, business opportunities, sports and more. We also know that we have a large Colombian community based in the UK and we are pleased that it will now be easier for their loved ones to visit them without much paperwork.

(See: UK abolishes tourist visas for Colombia since 9 November).

What will happen to people who have already applied for a visa?

Colombian nationals who have applied for a visitor visa and have not provided their biometric data (i.e. their fingerprints), can of course withdraw their application and apply to receive a refund of the visa fee through. You can do this by clicking here.

With these new regulations, what paperwork or requirements must be met to enter the UK?

From 9 November 2022, Colombian citizens can enter the UK with their passport, in addition to having sufficient resources to support themselves during their stay.

What are the benefits of this decision?

There are so many mutual benefits besides being able to travel paperless to the UK. We are fortunate to have daily direct flights to London, which greatly facilitates movement between our two countries, and hopefully this announcement will encourage the expansion of air connections. Moreover, with this change, we are opening up new business opportunities in various sectors, something that leads to greater prosperity. And, of course, it gives us the opportunity to deepen our bonds and exchanges in both tourism and culture, as well as enriching our long history. This is a great opportunity to also get to know our landscape, diverse culture, sporting events and much more.

(See: King Carlos III: there is already a coronation date for the king of England).