Online visa process could cause delays

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Colombia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that visa applicants will soon be required to complete an online application before appearing in person to apply for a visa.

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.

Copyright © 2016 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.