Israel and Colombia Announce Mutual Visa Waiver Starting September 1

Israel and Colombia have agreed to a reciprocal visa waiver arrangement effective from September 1, allowing citizens of both countries to travel without obtaining visas in advance. This decision follows discussions between Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar and Colombian Foreign Minister Rosa Juliana Álvarez Izquierdo. The new policy will significantly ease travel for Israelis visiting Colombia, who had been required to obtain visas since July 18, 2025, when Colombia imposed visa requirements based on reciprocity principles.

Historically, Israel and Colombia maintained a visa-free travel agreement for tourists since June 1966. However, this changed in 2025 when Colombia introduced visa requirements for Israeli citizens, citing national interests and reciprocity. The Colombian consulate in Tel Aviv clarified that visa applications are processed online with decisions made within 30 calendar days.

The visa waiver comes amid a complex diplomatic backdrop. In May 2024, Colombia severed diplomatic ties with Israel due to the conflict in Gaza, though it emphasized that the move targeted the Israeli government, not the Israeli people or Jewish community. Despite this, longstanding agreements remain in place, including a free trade agreement from 2013 and a tourism cooperation pact from 2017.

Additionally, on August 10, 2024, Colombia recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, becoming the second country after the United States to do so. The Israeli Foreign Ministry called this recognition "historic," highlighting its importance for Israel's security. The visa waiver agreement is seen as part of ongoing efforts to maintain and improve bilateral relations despite political challenges.