Starting in November, Colombian citizens will be able to enter UK without visa visitors or tourism.
In an interview with Portfolio, the British Ambassador to Colombia explain several 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?
From 9 November 2022, Colombian citizens do 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 visa waivers in other aspects, such as for business?
visitor visa This goes beyond tourism: it covers visits to the UK for a period of up to 6 months during which a variety of activities can be undertaken, including business and even the right to take short courses. But, for people who want to keep workingreside in the UK or study a longer course, regime visa will be maintained and for now there are no plans to change it.
Why was the decision made to eliminate tourist visas for Colombia?
We have been working on this process for several years, and we appreciate the cooperation and commitment of various governments, ambassadors and officials who have made it possible. Colombia is a strategic ally and very important to us. This is a way to strengthen the relationship between our two countries. We understand that without requiring a visitor visa, we expand 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 delighted that it will now be easier for their loved ones to visit them without so many paperwork.
(See: UK abolishes tourist visas to Colombia from 9 November).
What will happen to people who have already applied for a visa?
Citizens of Colombia who have applied for a visitor visa and have not provided biometric data (i.e. their fingerprint), can now withdraw their application and apply for a refund of the visa fee via. You can do this by clicking here.
With this new regulation, what documents or requirements must be met to enter the UK?
From 9 November 2022, Colombian citizens can enter the United Kingdom with their passport, in addition to having sufficient resources to support themselves during their stay.
George Hodgson, British Ambassador to Colombia.
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What are the benefits of this decision?
There are so many shared advantages besides being able to travel to the UK without paperwork. We are fortunate to have daily direct flights to London, which greatly facilitates movement between our two countries, and hopefully the announcement will increase the expansion of air connections. Moreover, with this change, we are opening the door to new business opportunities in various sectors, something that results in greater prosperity. And of course it provides an opportunity for us to strengthen ties of friendship and exchange both in the fields of tourism and culture, in addition to enriching our long history. This is a great opportunity to also get to know our landscape, diverse culture, sporting events and more.
(See: King Carlos III: there is already a date for the coronation of the king of England).
What projections do you have of the increase in travelers arriving in the UK from Colombia?
It’s hard to say how much the specific number will increase. Currently, we have around 12,000 visitors during the first half of 2022 and we are confident that the announcement of the abolition of visitor visas will motivate more Colombians to travel to discover and enjoy great deals from the United Kingdom.
How long can Colombians stay in the UK?
Colombian citizens traveling to the UK can spend up to 6 months in the country without the need for a visitor visa.
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