Immigration8/20/2026

Colombia Reinstated Visa-Free Entry for Israeli Citizens

Effective September 1, the reciprocal visa exemption for tourists between Israel and Colombia will be reinstated. The decision was made following a diplomatic rupture that lasted more than two years and amid the renewal of relations between the countries.

Key facts

•Measure: Reciprocal visa exemption for tourists
•Effective date: September 1
•Countries: Israel and Colombia
•The diplomatic rupture lasted more than two years
•The source does not identify any legislation

What Changed

Israeli citizens traveling to Colombia as tourists will no longer be required to obtain an entry visa in advance. The exemption will be reciprocal, meaning it will also apply to Colombian tourists visiting Israel. The source does not specify the permitted length of stay or other entry conditions.

Why the Exemption Was Reinstated

The change followed talks held by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar with Colombia's new leadership. The countries agreed to renew full diplomatic relations and appoint ambassadors immediately, following a rupture that lasted more than two years during President Gustavo Petro's term in office.

Additional Agreements Between the Countries

According to the source, Colombia also decided to move its embassy to Jerusalem, resume coal exports to Israel, and withdraw from South Africa's case against Israel before the United Nations International Court of Justice, as well as from the “Hague Group.” Colombia had previously announced that it recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights.

The Legal Basis

The source reports an agreed reciprocal visa exemption for tourists but does not identify any law, secondary legislation, or text of an international agreement through which it was formalized. It also does not detail the requirements concerning passport validity, the purpose of travel, or supporting documents.

What this means for you

For Israelis, tourist travel to Colombia will be simpler: an entry visa will no longer be required in advance. However, a visa exemption in itself does not guarantee entry into the country, and the source does not specify the exact length of stay or the requirements at the border crossing.

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