Colombian consulates and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs exercise a great deal of discretion and may ask for additional documentation or requirements when issuing visas.

As of 2024, there are three main types of visas in Colombia:

• Visitor visas (V visa), which are divided into 25 subcategories
• Complimentary visas (V visa), which are divided into six subcategories
• Migrant visas (M visa), which are divided into 14 subcategories
• Resident visas (R visa)

 In October 2019, the UAEMC issued a new resolution replacing former entry and stay permit (PIP) classifications with the following:

• Tourism Permit (PT)
• Integration and Development Permit (PID)
• Permission to Carry out Other Activities (POA)