New Visa Requirements for Colombians Traveling to Israel Amid Diplomatic Tensions

For nearly six decades, Colombians enjoyed visa-free travel to Israel under a 1966 bilateral agreement that eliminated tourist visa requirements between the two countries. However, in a marked shift, Israeli authorities announced that, as of May 2025, Colombian citizens must now obtain a tourist visa prior to entering the country.

This new requirement comes just months after Israel introduced its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system in January 2025 for travelers from previously visa-exempt countries. The imposition of visa requirements for Colombians, however, goes beyond the ETA framework and reflects a deeper diplomatic rift, following Colombia’s decision to sever ties with Israel amid escalating political tensions.

The Consulate General of Israel in Bogota announced the implementation of the new visa requirement through an announcement on their official website. Colombian citizens planning to visit Israel must now apply for a short-stay tourist visa, which covers purposes such as tourism, medical tourism, business, and short-term non-academic studies. Under the previous ETA system, Colombian nationals could apply online for travel authorization, allowing for a more streamlined entry process. The reinstatement of the visa requirement means a more comprehensive application process, including the submission of various documents and personal information.

Applicants must provide a valid passport (with at least three months of validity beyond the visa period), bank statements from the past three months, proof of employment, proof of accommodation in Israel, two recent passport-size photographs, and travel health insurance covering the entire stay. While round-trip flight tickets are required, they do not need to be submitted at the time of application. To apply, individuals must complete and sign the visa form, compile all required documents into a single PDF, and email it to [email protected]. A personal interview at the consulate may be requested at the discretion of the consular officer, and appointments must be scheduled in advance if needed. Visa processing typically takes between 2 to 3 business days.

The reintroduction of visa requirements comes one year after Colombia’s decision to cut diplomatic ties with Israel on May 1, 2024. At the time, President Gustavo Petro announced the severance during a public address, citing Israel’s military actions in Gaza as “genocidal” and expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people. This was an unexpected move, given the historically close relationship between the two countries, which included military cooperation and trade agreements.

“When Netanyahu leaves, we will reestablish relations with Israel, establish a consulate in Gaza, in the free and sovereign State of Palestine, and help care for the wounded children of Gaza in our hospitals. We will help rebuild Gaza under the Palestinian flag,” President Petro said in May 2025 via X.

While the visa application process remains open, the current diplomatic climate suggests that Colombian travelers are encouraged to stay informed about any further changes to entry requirements or bilateral relations that may affect their travel plans through the consulate’s website and other official channels.

Headline photo: In July 2024 a Palestinian flag reading “Stop the genocide” covered the facade of the Congress of Colombia. (Photo: Maria José Pizarro / X)