New UK visa requirement for Colombian nationals

Recent changes have been made to the Immigration Rules which will affect the plans of Columbian nationals planning to visit or transit through the UK.

From 26th November 2024 onwards, all Colombian nationals will be required to apply for entry clearance before travel to the UK. This means that Columbian nationals wishing to visit or transit the UK will now need to apply for a visit visa or a direct airside transit visa (DATV) before travel. There is one limited exception – anyone with a confirmed booking made before 3pm on 26th November 2024, for arrival in the UK no later than 3pm on 24 December 2024, will not require a visa. Amending the date of travel on a confirmed booking to an earlier date will also require the person to have a visa. Columbian nationals will also be removed from the list of nationalities requiring an Electronic Travel Authorisation.

According to the Home Office, the visa requirement has been reintroduced following a significant increase in the number of Columbian nationals travelling to the UK for purposes not permitted under the Immigration Rules, such as to live and work.