Israel and Colombia Agree on Mutual Visa Waiver Starting September 1

Israel and Colombia have agreed to a reciprocal visa exemption that will take effect on September 1. This agreement allows citizens of both countries to enter each other's territories without obtaining a visa in advance, reversing a previous Colombian policy that required Israelis to have visas. The decision follows diplomatic talks between Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar and Colombian Foreign Minister Álvaro Leyva, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between Jerusalem and Bogotá.

The discussions came after Sa'ar met with Colombia's newly elected President, Gustavo Petro, in Barranquilla, a day before his inauguration. Sa'ar expressed gratitude to the Colombian president for relocating his country's embassy to Jerusalem. This visa waiver is part of a broader warming of ties since the new Colombian government took office, including recent Israeli humanitarian aid sent to Colombia following a devastating earthquake. The Israeli delegation comprised around 80 personnel assisting in rescue and recovery efforts.

This rapprochement aligns with a wider political shift in Latin America, where several countries have elected pro-Israel and Western-leaning leaders. The visa exemption will facilitate easier travel and cooperation between Israel and Colombia, benefiting citizens and strengthening diplomatic and economic connections.