Colombia Refugee Visa – Types, Application and Documentation

As the world becomes increasingly unstable, more people seek refuge in other countries. Colombia is one of the most popular destinations for refugees. The Colombian government has created a special visa specifically for refugees. This visa allows refugees to live and work in Colombia while their asylum application is processed.

The visa allows refugees to stay in Colombia for up to two years and apply for permanent residency after one year. Colombia Refugee Visa is a safe alternative to crossing the border into Ecuador or Brazil, which can be dangerous and expensive.

However, the Colombian government has been working with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to process the applications and assist the refugees. They have set up reception centers in several cities, including Bogota, Cartagena, and Medellin. Here, you will learn how to apply for the Columbia Refugee Visa, the types, and how to apply.

What is a Columbia Refugee Visa?

A Colombia refugee visa is a type of visa that allows people who are unable or unwilling to return to their country of nationality to stay in the country where they are seeking asylum. People who are granted refugee visas are given protected person status. This means they cannot be deported and have access to certain rights and benefits.

Can a refugee become a citizen?

The process of becoming a citizen is not always an easy one. In some cases, a refugee can’t become a citizen. In other cases, the process is possible but can be difficult. However, for refugees fleeing from their home country due to war or persecution, becoming a citizen in their new country can be a way to rebuild their life.

Types of Colombia Refugee Visa

There are many types of visas for refugees fleeing their home country. In Colombia, there are four main types of refugee visas:

1. The Colombia humanitarian visa
2. Colombia temporary protection visa
3. The subsidiary protection visa
4. Refugee status determination visa

#1.The humanitarian visa

The Colombia humanitarian visa provides a legal way for people who need protection to enter and stay in Colombia. In addition, the visa is available to people who have fled their home country due to persecution, conflict, or natural disaster.

Applicants must demonstrate that they cannot return safely to their home country. They must also prove that they will not be a burden to the Colombian government.

The visa is valid for one year and can be renewed. It allows holders to work and study in Colombia. Families can also be reunited under this visa.

#2. Colombia temporary protection visa

According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Colombia is offering temporary protection visas to people who have fled their country.

So far, more than 1,000 people have received temporary protection visas in Colombia. Most of these people are from Venezuela’s middle class. They seek refuge from the violence and economic instability in their home country. Many are also looking for a way to get their children into school.

The Colombian government has said that it plans to issue more temporary protection visas. Hopefully, this program will help reduce the number of Venezuelan refugees fleeing to other countries.

#3. The subsidiary protection visa

The Colombia subsidiary protection visa is a new visa category that was created in December 2016. The visa is for foreign nationals with a qualifying relationship with a company with a subsidiary in Colombia. It allows the foreign nationals to live and work in Colombia for the duration of the subsidiary’s existence.

The visa is valid for one year and can be renewed for another year. The foreign national can apply for permanent residency after two years of holding the visa.

#4. Refugee status determination visa

The Colombia Refugee status determination visa (RSDV) is a visa for people seeking refugee status in Colombia. It was introduced in December 2017 and is valid for one year. The RSDV allows people to apply for refugee status without having to leave Colombia.

The visa is available to people from any country, and there is no limit on the number of people who can apply. However, applicants must have a valid passport and must be able to prove that they are fleeing persecution or danger. The visa costs $200, and applicants must provide evidence of their financial situation.

How to Apply for a Colombia Refugee Visa

If you seek asylum in Colombia, you must apply for a refugee visa. Applying for a refugee visa is relatively straightforward and can be completed online. However, there are a few things you will need to do before you can apply.

First, you will need to gather some supporting documentation. This includes documents that prove your identity, as well as documents that show why you are seeking asylum in Colombia. If applicable, you may also need to provide evidence of your persecution or torture.

Next, you must create an account on the Colombian government’s online visa application system. Once you have created an account, you can begin the application process. Be sure to read all of the instructions before starting the application carefully.

You will also need to pay the application fee.

Requirements to Apply for a Colombia Refugee Visa

To be eligible for a Colombia Refugee Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• The applicant must be outside of Colombia.
• The applicant must have been persecuted or have a well-founded fear of persecution due to race, religion, nationality, social group, or political opinion.
• The applicant must be unable to return to their country of origin due to said persecution or fear thereof.
• The applicant must have a visa application approved by the Colombian government.
• The applicant must provide evidence of financial support while in Colombia.
• The applicant must pass a criminal background check.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I stay in Colombia legally?

There are a few different ways that you can stay in Colombia legally. One way is to get a work visa. You can also get a student visa or a retirement visa. If you are married to a Colombian citizen, you can get a residency visa. If you have children who are Colombian citizens, you can also get residency visas. There are also other ways to get residency visas, such as through investment or by being the manager of a company in Colombia.

How long does it take for a refugee to get a visa?

Depending on the country, it can take months or years for a refugee to get a visa. In some cases, refugees may have to wait until they are referred to a specific country by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

In other cases, refugees may be able to apply for a visa directly to the country they hope to flee to.

However, many countries have strict requirements that you must meet for someone to be granted refugee status. These requirements often include proof of persecution or a fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.

Can a refugee become a citizen?

The process of becoming a citizen is not always an easy one. In some cases, a refugee can’t become a citizen. In other cases, the process is possible but can be difficult. However, for refugees fleeing from their home country due to war or persecution, becoming a citizen in their new country can be a way to rebuild their life.

Do refugees stay permanently?

When refugees arrive in a new country, they cannot always stay permanently. In some cases, they may be able to stay for some time, but eventually, they must leave. This is often the case when refugees seek asylum in a new country.

Do refugees need passports?

It depends on their country of origin and their destination country. For example, fleeing a war-torn or oppressive country, they may not have time to get a passport.

If they go to a developed country like the United States, they will likely need a passport.

Can refugees visit their home country?

Yes, refugees can visit their home country. However, they may need special permission from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). This is because refugees are not allowed to work or live in their home countries and may be at risk of persecution if they return.

Conclusion

Finally, the Colombian refugee visa is a great opportunity for those seeking refuge from the violence and instability in their home country. It provides them with a safe place to live and the chance to build a new life. However, if you are considering applying for a Colombian refugee visa, be sure to do your research and understand the requirements. The process can be complicated, but with the help of a qualified immigration lawyer, you can make it through.