Israel and Colombia Agree on Mutual Visa Waiver to Boost Diplomatic Ties
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Israel and Colombia have agreed to a mutual visa waiver starting next month, easing travel and marking a renewal of diplomatic relations, including ambassador appointments and embassy openings. Colombia also recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, with full diplomatic ties set to resume following the new Colombian president's inauguration.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Israel and Colombia agree on mutual visa waiver effective next month, easing travel for Israelis.
- Since 2025, Israelis needed a visa for Colombia, which took up to 30 days to obtain.
- The visa waiver allows stays up to 90 days, subject to border checks and local rules.
- Agreement follows talks with Colombia's new president and foreign minister after August 7 inauguration.
- Colombia recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights as part of diplomatic renewal.
- Israel appointed Vivian Eisen as ambassador to Colombia, pending final government approval.
Israel and Colombia have reached an agreement to implement a mutual visa waiver starting next month, significantly easing travel for Israeli tourists to Colombia. Previously, since 2025, Israeli passport holders were required to obtain a visa through an online process that could take up to 30 days. Under the new arrangement, travelers can enter Colombia without a prior visa and receive a stay permit of up to 90 days, subject to border inspections and local entry conditions.
This development is part of broader efforts to fully restore diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries following the inauguration of Colombia's new president, Abelardo de la Espriella, on August 7, 2026. Israeli Interior Minister Sa'ar held discussions with the Colombian president-elect and the designated Foreign Minister Omar Bola Escobar, agreeing on reinstating diplomatic ties, appointing ambassadors reciprocally, opening a Colombian embassy in Jerusalem, and expanding bilateral cooperation.
Colombia has also recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, marking a significant diplomatic gesture. Last month, Israel's Foreign Ministry appointments committee approved Vivian Eisen as Israel's ambassador to Colombia, pending final government approval. The Israeli Foreign Ministry is finalizing preparations to resume full diplomatic activities with Colombia, reflecting a wider strategy to deepen Israel's relations with Latin American countries.
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