Visa V for Journalistic Coverage in Colombia

Foreign journalists wishing to cover news events or work temporarily as press correspondents for foreign media in Colombia may apply for the Visa V for Journalistic Coverage. This visa is valid for 2 years and grants work authorization only for the specific media outlet or event it's issued for, while also permitting business activities, market research, investment planning, and company formation procedures.

General Requirements

Requirements vary depending on whether the application is submitted individually or with institutional support:

Personal Application or Supported by an Individual

A written statement must include:

• Full identification of applicant and/or supporting individual
• Brief explanation of relationship between foreigner and supporting individual (if applicable)
• Detailed description of planned journalistic activities in Colombia
• Declaration of financial responsibility for travel and stay expenses
• Proof of financial liquidity (6 months of bank statements)

Institutional Application

A written statement from the media organization's legal representative must include:

• Full identification and contact details of media organization
• Complete identification of foreign journalist
• Detailed explanation of journalistic activities in Colombia
• Explanation of relationship and journalist's special qualifications (if applicable)
• Declaration of financial responsibility for expenses
• Proof of financial liquidity (6 months of bank statements), unless a public entity
• Certificate of Existence and Legal Representation for foreign private media companies

Important Notes:

• Documents (except ID/travel) must be issued within last 3 months
• Foreign documents require legalization/apostille
• Non-Spanish documents need official certified translation
• Colombian authorities may request criminal background information

Specific Requirements

• Proof of journalist or press correspondent status

Visa Costs

Application Processing Fee:

• €40 from Europe/Cuba
• €52 from Colombia/rest of world
• €23 for Ecuadorians from Europe/Cuba
• $30 USD for Ecuadorians from Colombia/elsewhere
• Free for Spanish nationals

Visa Issuance Fee (upon approval):

• €131 from Europe/Cuba
• $170 from Colombia/rest of world
• Free for:
  • Peruvians settling in Amazon/Putumayo river basins
  • Ecuadorian, Spanish, Japanese, or Korean nationals

This visa facilitates international media coverage while ensuring proper documentation of foreign correspondents working in Colombia. Journalists should begin the application process well in advance of their planned coverage dates.