Tourist visa to the United States: this is the price in Colombia this Friday after the fall of the dollar

The cost of a U.S. tourist visa for Colombian citizens has dropped significantly this Friday due to the continued decline of the dollar against the Colombian peso. The current exchange rate, known as the Tasa Representativa del Mercado (TRM), has fallen from 3,757.08 pesos at the beginning of 2026 to 3,062.96 pesos as of August 21, leading to a notable reduction in the price of the visa in local currency. Although the official fee remains at $185 in U.S. dollars, the amount required in pesos has decreased substantially, making the process more affordable for Colombians seeking to travel to the United States. The weakening of the dollar has been driven by several factors, including international concerns over the U.S. fiscal situation, rising oil prices, and higher interest rates in Colombia, which have made peso-denominated assets more attractive. This trend has resulted in lower costs for many goods and services purchased in foreign currencies, particularly affecting travel-related expenses such as visas. As a result, the visa application process has become more accessible for Colombian travelers, especially those planning trips for tourism or family visits. The U.S. tourist visa, specifically the B1/B2 type, is among the most requested by Colombians. It allows for both business and leisure travel, with a multiple-entry validity of up to 10 years, though each stay is determined by immigration officials upon arrival. To apply, applicants must provide a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity beyond their intended travel dates, complete the DS-160 form online, pay the mandatory non-refundable visa fee, submit a recent photo meeting U.S. Department of State requirements, and schedule a consulate appointment. Additional documents required include proof of financial stability, such as bank statements, employment letters, contracts, or tax returns, to demonstrate the applicant’s ability to cover travel expenses. Applicants must also provide evidence of ties to Colombia, such as family connections or property ownership, to show they intend to return after their trip. The visa fee, currently set at $185, translates to approximately 566,647 pesos based on the latest TRM rate. However, this figure can fluctuate slightly depending on daily exchange rate movements. The exact cost will vary according to the day of payment, as it is directly tied to the prevailing exchange rate. Despite these variations, the overall affordability of the visa has improved compared to previous periods. Colombian authorities continue to emphasize the importance of adhering strictly to the visa application guidelines to avoid rejection. There have been cases of repeated visa denials, highlighting the need for thorough preparation and accurate documentation. Travelers are advised to carefully review all requirements and ensure that all submitted materials are complete and compliant with U.S. immigration standards. As the exchange rate continues to shift, the cost of the visa may further decrease or stabilize. For now, the reduced price offers a welcome relief for many Colombians looking to explore opportunities abroad. The process remains subject to change, so applicants should monitor updates from the Embassy of the United States in Bogotá and the Banco de la República for the most current information.