United Kingdom Visa RequirementsFor Colombia passport holders
Colombian citizens need a UK Standard Visitor Visa to visit the United Kingdom. Unlike the Schengen area (which Colombians can visit visa-free), the UK maintains its own visa policy and requires a Standard Visitor Visa application.
Colombia passport holders require a visa to enter United Kingdom.
Apply online at gov.uk/standard-visitor-visa. Submit biometrics and documents at VFS Global Bogota or a designated centre. Required documents include a valid Colombian passport (6 months validity), completed online application, recent passport photo, biometric enrolment, bank statements for 3-6 months showing sufficient funds, employment letter with confirmed leave and salary, return flight booking, accommodation proof in the UK, and evidence of ties to Colombia. The UK visa fee is £115 (~$145 USD). Processing takes approximately 15 business days.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Allowed
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
Completed UK Standard Visitor Visa application (online)
Valid Colombian passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Recent passport-sized photo (35mm x 45mm)
Biometric enrolment at VFS Global Bogota or British Embassy
Bank statements (last 3-6 months) showing financial means
Employment letter with salary and confirmed leave
Return flight booking
Hotel bookings or invitation letter from UK host
Evidence of ties to Colombia (employment, property, family)
Current Travel Situation
Colombia to United Kingdom: What You Need to Know
Despite Colombia's Schengen visa-free access since 2015, the UK requires a Standard Visitor Visa from Colombian citizens. The UK maintains its own immigration policy independent of the EU. There is a significant Colombian community in the UK, particularly in London, and Colombians visit the UK for tourism, business, and family visits. The British Embassy in Bogota processes applications through VFS Global.
How to Get There
Avianca, British Airways, and LATAM operate flights from Bogota (BOG) to London Heathrow (LHR). The most common routes are direct with Avianca or British Airways (approximately 11 hours) or via connecting hubs. Copa Airlines via Panama City also connects to London.
Money & Banking
The UK uses the British pound (GBP). Colombian pesos are not accepted. Visa/Mastercard bank cards work in UK ATMs and shops. London is expensive; budget at least £100-150 per day.
Practical Tips
While Colombians enjoy Schengen visa-free access to Europe, the UK is a separate visa requirement. If your European trip includes only Schengen countries, no visa is needed. But if you want to visit the UK, you need a separate UK Standard Visitor Visa. Apply for the UK visa before your trip; you cannot apply from within the Schengen area as a visa-free visitor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Colombians need a visa for the UK?
Yes. Unlike the Schengen area (which Colombians can visit visa-free), the UK requires a Standard Visitor Visa from Colombian citizens. Apply online at gov.uk/standard-visitor-visa. The fee is £115 (~$145 USD).
Are there direct flights from Colombia to London?
Yes. Avianca and British Airways operate direct flights from Bogota (BOG) to London Heathrow (LHR). The direct flight takes approximately 11 hours. Copa Airlines via Panama City is also an option.
If I have a Schengen visa, can I visit the UK with it?
No. The UK is not part of the Schengen area and has its own visa requirements. A Schengen visa (or Colombia's Schengen visa-free access) does not grant entry to the UK. You need to apply separately for a UK Standard Visitor Visa.