Colombia to Impose Visa Requirements for British Citizens in Reciprocal Move
The decision follows the UK government's reinstatement of visa rules for Colombian nationals citing migration and border security concerns.
- Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced that British citizens will now require a visa to enter Colombia, citing the principle of reciprocity.
- The UK government reinstated visa requirements for Colombian visitors on Tuesday, ending a visa-free arrangement introduced in 2022.
- UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper cited a sharp rise in asylum claims and high rates of entry refusals by Colombian nationals as reasons for the decision.
- The UK decision also cancels plans for Colombians to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for travel starting January 8, 2025.
- Colombia has yet to specify when its new visa requirements for British citizens will take effect.