Between January and September 2025, the United States issued 445.330 non-immigrant visas to Colombian citizens, a 21 % increase from the 366.460 visas granted during the same period in 2024. This rise in visa issuance persists despite heightened migration restrictions and the suspension of immigrant visa processing for more than 70 countries, including Colombia, as part of an ongoing administrative review.
Visa Demand and Administrative Context
While the administration of President Donald Trump has introduced stricter vetting for student, researcher, and journalist visas, demand for entry into the U.S. remains high. The current statistics reflect the volume of visas granted by Washington, rather than the total number of applications submitted or rejected. Applicants are now subject to more rigorous security controls, including potential scrutiny of public social media accounts as part of the visa issuance process.
Did You Know? The tourist and business visa (B1/B2) accounts for more than nine out of every ten visas issued to Colombians in the top ten categories, totaling 422.411 documents between January and September 2025.
Top Non-Immigrant Visa Categories
Visa issuance for Colombians is concentrated in a few specific categories. Beyond the B1/B2 tourist visa—which saw a 25 % increase compared to 2024—the following categories round out the most frequently granted visas:
- J1 (Academic and Cultural Exchange): 8.366 visas issued, a 27 % decrease from the previous year.
- A (Diplomatic and Official): 3.120 visas issued for government-related missions.
- F1 (Academic Studies): 2.385 visas issued, down from 3.195 in the same period of 2024.
- H2B (Temporary Non-Agricultural Work): 1.447 visas issued, more than doubling the 709 granted in 2024.
- C1/D (Transit and Crew): 1.112 visas issued, a decline from 2.033 in 2024.
- L2 (Dependents of Intracompany Transferees): 711 visas issued, remaining stable compared to 703 in 2024.
- L1 (Intracompany Transferees): 603 visas issued.
- H1B (Specialized Professionals): 571 visas issued, a slight decrease from 645 in 2024.
- K1 (Fiancés of U.S.
Expert Insight: The Impact of Policy Shifts
Expert Insight: The divergence in issuance numbers across categories suggests that while general travel remains robust, specific pathways—particularly those involving long-term residency or family reunification—face significant friction. The sharp decline in K1 fiancé visas alongside the broader suspension of immigrant processing highlights a tightening of long-term entry channels, even as seasonal and temporary labor visas like the H2B category demonstrate significant growth.
Application Processes and Requirements
Standard requirements for these non-immigrant visas include holding a valid Colombian passport, completing the DS-160 electronic form, paying the designated consular fee, and attending a mandatory interview. For specific categories, additional documentation is required, such as the I-20 form for students or proof of employment certification for temporary workers. Failure to demonstrate sufficient ties to Colombia, such as employment or property, may impact an applicant’s success during the consular interview process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common visa type for Colombians?
The B1/B2 visa for tourism and business is the most frequently issued, representing the vast majority of the total visas in the top ten categories.
Are immigrant visas currently being processed for Colombia?
No. The issuance of immigrant visas remains suspended for more than 70 countries, including Colombia, due to an ongoing procedural review.
What new requirements have been implemented for visa applicants?
In addition to standard interviews and documentation, applicants may now be required to provide access to public social media accounts for monitoring purposes.
How will these evolving administrative requirements influence your future travel or professional plans to the United States?