Israel and Colombia agree to mutual exemption from visas starting Sept. 1

Following conversations between Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and Colombian Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced Thursday the decision of both countries to grant mutual exemption from visas starting September 1st. This decision comes in striking contrast to the deteriorating relations between Israel and Colombia under the Petro government last year.

In July of 2025, Colombia's policy for holders of Israeli passports wishing to visit Colombia is that they were required to obtain a visa.

This is the latest step in improving relations over the past month, following the complete renewal of diplomatic ties, the immediate appointment of ambassadors, the transfer of the Colombian embassy to Jerusalem, the reinstatement of the free trade agreement between the two countries, Colombia's withdrawal from South Africa's lawsuit against Israel at the ICJ and from the "Hague Group," agreement on strengthening political, security, and economic relations between the countries, and more.

Additionally, two weeks ago Colombia announced its recognition of Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights. In its statement, Colombia declared that "in light of the ongoing regional instability in the Middle East, and considering the strategic importance of the Golan Heights to Israel's security, the Government of Colombia recognizes Israel's sovereignty over this territory, as well as the state's right to defend itself against external threats."

The Government of Colombia further clarified that "for decades, Israel has faced ongoing and existential security challenges on all of its borders. These threats have significantly intensified in recent years, reaching their peak in the horrific terrorist attack of October 7, which illustrated their severity and the changing nature of the dangers facing the Israeli people. In this regional security context, Colombia recognizes that maintaining Israel's control and sovereignty over the Golan Heights constitutes a vital component of its national security and its ability to defend its citizens and ensure their safety."

Israel's humanitarian delegation is currently in Colombia and for the past week has been working alongside local and international teams in Cali, Colombia, following a deadly earthquake in the country. The Israel Defense Forces, in coordination with Colombian authorities, have located and recovered the bodies of 17 earthquake victims from the rubble, contributing expertise, knowledge and advanced search-and-rescue capabilities to the effort. As the search for missing persons continues, Israel's mission has entered a new phase, helping assess and map affected structures to support Colombian authorities in the recovery process.

Israeli officials said the delegation remains committed to helping save lives and accompanying Colombia on its path to recovery.