Colombians who wish to travel to the United Kingdom will no longer need to request conditional authorization as of November 9, announced the British ambassador to Colombia, George Hodgson. He added that “the United Kingdom becomes more accessible to all Colombians who want to discover and enjoy its rich culture.”
“As of November 9, 2022, Colombian nationals will not need any visitor visa to travel to the United Kingdom for a period of up to 6 months,” he announced at a press conference.
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The diplomat stated that the decision was agreed after an extensive and rigorous process of evaluation by different institutions of the United Kingdom Government to strengthen bilateral relations.
“With this announcement, the United Kingdom becomes more accessible to all Colombians who want to discover and enjoy its rich culture, its long history and its beautiful landscape. Beyond tourism, with this change the country will open its doors to new opportunities for businesses in various sectors. With just two months to go until Christmas we hope you will be able to enjoy the British Christmas atmosphere this year,” added Hodgson.
Between January and June of this year, about 12,000 Colombians traveled to the United Kingdom and, annually, a total average of 25,000 people visit that country.
The ambassador clarified that the requirements and permits for study trips, work and educational specializations continue without any change.
“I am aware of how important this change is for families, friends and businesses with links to the UK. There is increasing interest in the UK as a study destination, for example, and it is important to highlight that the requirements to work, study and specializing in the United Kingdom remain,” the diplomat pointed out.
Finally, Hodgson reiterated that London’s accompaniment to the implementation of the peace agreement signed in 2016 between the Colombian State and the guerrillas of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) is one of that country’s priorities.
With information from Sputnik