What does the change mean? Beginning Monday, foreign nationals applying in person for a visa in Colombia will be required to complete an application form and provide supporting documentation online before appearing in person. Once the online application has been uploaded, applicants will print out their application and bring it to a Ministry of Foreign Affairs office.
- Implementation time frame: Aug. 15.
- Visas/permits affected: All visas.
- Who is affected: Anyone applying in person for a visa in Colombia.
- Impact on processing times: It is difficult to tell yet if there will be an impact on processing times. BAL will continue to monitor the program rollout and provide additional information as needed.
Background: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that the new requirement will be implemented Monday. Before appearing in person, applicants will have to complete an online application, which, once uploaded, should be printed out and brought with original documents and fees to a ministry office for approval and stamping.
BAL Analysis: While the impact on processing times is not clear, employers and visa applicants should anticipate the possibility of delays, as visa applicants will be forced to upload their online applications before appearing in person to obtain a visa. Businesses may need to adjust timelines or start dates if the new requirements lead to significant delays.
This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Colombia. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.
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About Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP
Founded in 1980, Berry Appleman & Leiden (BAL) provides comprehensive global immigration services from seven offices across the U.S. and from offices in Geneva, London, Melbourne, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Shanghai, Singapore and Sydney. BAL manages global visa matters and customized application approaches for work permits, business visas, and residence permits in more than 100 countries. With a single cost center for worldwide operations, BAL offers centralized management with regional and local support for the complete spectrum of global immigration matters.
Source: Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP
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