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What are the requirements to travel to Colombia from the USA?
In this article, we will tell you about the requirements to travel to Colombia from the USA, which are essential for a successful stay.
Colombia is a destination that draws thousands of American travelers every year. With its stunning landscapes rich in unique wildlife, vibrant cities full of attractions, and warm, welcoming culture, it’s an excellent choice whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, study, or even long-term living. However, before you travel to Colombia from the USA, it’s important to understand the entry requirements to avoid any issues at immigration and ensure a smooth, hassle-free trip.
Some documents, like your passport, are essential for any traveler, while others such as visas depend on the purpose of your trip and how long you plan to stay in the country. In this article, you’ll find detailed information on everything you need to enter Colombia legally from the United States and ensure a smooth and hassle free experience.
Advice before traveling to Colombia
Before getting into the entry requirements for Colombia, it’s important to think about something that can really make your trip smoother: staying connected. Having reliable internet access while you travel lets you use maps, book accommodations, keep in touch with loved ones, and take care of things online without depending on public WiFi, which can often be slow or unsafe.
To ensure a reliable connection, one of the best options is Holafly’s eSIM for Colombia, perfect for travelers who want unlimited data for just the days they need, without worrying about coverage. For those planning to stay longer, Holafly also offers monthly plans that let you share your internet connection across multiple devices and enjoy unlimited data. This is especially convenient for digital nomads, students, or anyone who needs to work online while in Colombia.
Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 170 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍
With this advice in mind, let’s now move on to the requirements you must meet in order to enter the country without any problems.
1. Round-trip airline ticket to the United States
One of the key requirements to travel to Colombia from the USA is having a round-trip ticket or, alternatively, proof of onward travel to another country. Immigration officials may ask for this to ensure that travelers don’t plan to stay in Colombia beyond the allowed period.
For tourists and short-term visitors, having a return ticket is a mandatory requirement. Immigration officers may deny entry to travelers who arrive without proof of onward travel or ask them to purchase a ticket at the airport before allowing them in. This rule also applies to those entering on short-term visas, such as business or academic exchange visas lasting less than three months.
There are, however, some exceptions. If you enter Colombia on a residence or long-term work visa, you don’t strictly need a return ticket, but it’s still wise to prepare a travel plan that outlines your stay. Either way, having a clear departure plan can help prevent any complications at immigration.
2. Visas for traveling to Colombia
Depending on the purpose and length of your trip, you may need to obtain a visa before entering Colombia. For U.S. citizens, not all types of travel require a visa, but it’s important to be aware of the main options available.
If you’re traveling for tourism and plan to stay less than 90 days, a visa isn’t required. U.S. citizens can enter Colombia for short visits without a visa, though travelers must still meet other requirements, such as showing a return or onward ticket and proving they have enough funds to cover their stay.
For those planning to travel for other reasons, these are the most relevant visas:
- Work visa: For those who have secured a job in Colombia, a work visa is required. This could be a Migrant Visa (M) for employees hired by Colombian companies or a Resident Visa (R) for those planning to settle in the country permanently.
- Student visa: Anyone planning to pursue undergraduate or graduate studies, or participate in an academic exchange program lasting more than three months, must apply for a Migrant Student Visa (M). This visa allows you to live in Colombia for the duration of your academic program.
- Business visa: For those traveling to Colombia for business purposes, meetings, or short-term professional activities, the Visitor Business Visa (V) is recommended. It allows temporary stays without requiring a work contract in the country.
- Permanent residence visa: Colombia grants the Resident Visa (R) to individuals who have lived in the country for an extended period on another visa or who have family ties, such as spouses of Colombian citizens or investors conducting business in Colombia.
Each type of visa comes with its own requirements and processing times, so it’s a good idea to check with the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs before starting your application.
3. U.S. passport
A passport is required to enter Colombia, regardless of the purpose of your trip. It’s important to make sure your passport meets the following criteria:
- It must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry. Immigration authorities may deny entry to travelers whose passports are close to expiring.
- It must have at least one blank page, as this will be necessary for immigration stamps upon entry and exit from the country.
Make sure to keep both digital and paper copies of your passport. Having them on hand can simplify getting a replacement from the U.S. embassy in Colombia and prevent any issues when it’s time to depart.
4. Proof of financial solvency
When traveling to Colombia from the United States, immigration officers may ask for proof that you can support yourself financially. This shows that you have enough resources to cover your stay without working unlawfully or depending on someone else.
There isn’t a set amount of money required, but it’s generally recommended to have at least $50 per day of your stay as a guideline. To show proof of financial means, you can provide the following documents:
- Recent bank statements showing enough money to cover expenses during your stay in the country.
- Credit or debit cards with sufficient limits, as immigration officers may ask to see them to verify your financial backing.
- An invitation letter from a resident in Colombia, if you’re visiting for personal reasons and will be staying with family or friends who will cover your expenses.
- Hotel and flight bookings that show you have a clear travel plan and that you don’t intend to remain in the country without the means to support yourself.
Although immigration officers don’t always request this information at entry, it’s a good idea to keep it on hand to avoid any issues, especially if you plan to stay for an extended period or travel for reasons other than tourism.
5. Yellow fever vaccination certificate (for certain areas)
Colombia generally does not require a yellow fever vaccination to enter the country. However, if your trip includes areas at risk, such as the Amazon rainforest, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, or Tayrona National Park, authorities may ask for proof of vaccination to help prevent the spread of the disease.
Regions where vaccination is highly recommended include:
- Amazonas, Vaupés, and Guainía, where yellow fever is endemic.
- Natural parks such as Tayrona and the protected areas of Chocó, where climatic conditions favor the presence of the virus.
- Cities near the border with Venezuela and Brazil, where cases have been reported in the past.
To prevent complications, health experts recommend getting the vaccine at least 10 days before traveling and carrying your international vaccination certificate with you. This ensures smoother access to certain regions and helps safeguard your health during the trip.
6. Check-Mig form, mandatory among the requirements for traveling to Colombia from the USA
The Check-Mig form is a mandatory requirement for everyone entering or leaving Colombia, including U.S. citizens. Migración Colombia manages the form, and you must complete it between 72 hours and 1 hour before your trip.
The process is completely online and is carried out through the official website of Migración Colombia. The information that must be provided includes:
- Personal information, such as name, passport, and date of birth.
- Flight details, such as airline and flight number.
- Place of accommodation in Colombia and reason for travel.
After filling out the form, you’ll receive a confirmation, and you must show it when you board your flight and again at immigration upon arriving in Colombia. Not having this document can delay your entry process or, in some cases, prevent you from boarding your flight.
7. Customs declaration and restrictions upon entering Colombia
Upon arrival in Colombia, all travelers must go through customs, where luggage may be subject to random inspections. Knowing which items authorities allow and which they restrict helps you avoid fines or penalties.
Among the main entry restrictions are:
- Illegal substances and drugs: Colombia has strict drug laws, and even the smallest amount can lead to serious legal trouble.
- Authorities do not allow travelers to bring animal or plant products without proper health permits, as these items can threaten the country’s biodiversity. This includes meat, fruits, seeds, and plants without the required certification.
- More than $10,000 in cash: If you’re carrying this amount or more, you must declare it to DIAN (Colombia’s National Tax and Customs Authority). If you fail to do so, authorities can issue fines or seize the money.
On the other hand, travelers can bring certain items in tax-free, such as clothing and personal belongings, as long as they stay within reasonable amounts. You may need to declare high-value goods, such as electronics or luxury items, at customs to avoid any issues.
Other tips for traveling to Colombia
Besides meeting the entry requirements to travel to Colombia from the USA, there are a few things you can do to make your visit easier and more enjoyable. You don’t have to follow these suggestions, but they can greatly improve your comfort and safety while traveling. From having travel insurance to knowing how to drive in the country, being prepared with this information helps ensure a smooth and stress-free stay.
Travel insurance for Colombia
While travel insurance is not required to enter Colombia, it is highly recommended for any traveler. A good policy can cover medical expenses in case of emergencies, illness, hospitalization, or accidents. Many plans also provide coverage for lost luggage, flight delays, or theft, situations that can happen to anyone while traveling.
Medical expenses in Colombia can be high for those without coverage. While major cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali have hospitals and clinics with excellent standards, accessing private care without insurance can be expensive. Having travel insurance can protect you from unexpected costs and ensure you receive medical attention without hassle in case of accidents or illness.
Additionally, activities like hiking, adventure sports, or trips to rural areas can carry certain risks. Having coverage that includes medical evacuation or emergency assistance is a smart precaution.
Driver’s license in Colombia
For those planning to rent a car and explore Colombia by road, it’s important to understand the driving regulations. Tourists with a valid U.S. driver’s license can drive in Colombia without needing an additional permit, as long as their license is current and in good condition.
However, if you stay in Colombia for more than 180 days or obtain a residence visa, authorities will require you to get a Colombian driver’s license. In that case, you will need to complete the necessary procedures with the local traffic authority and pass the exams required by law.
It’s wise to review the rules of the car rental company you choose, as some might ask for an International Driving Permit even though it’s not mandatory in Colombia. Keep in mind that some roads in the country can be challenging, so you should drive cautiously and follow local traffic laws.
Frequently asked questions about requirements for traveling to Colombia from the USA
No, U.S. citizens can enter without a visa and stay for up to 90 days, with the possibility of extending their stay for another 90 days.
The passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Colombia.
Yes, immigration authorities may require a ticket back to the United States or another country as proof of departure within the authorized period.
You do not need any vaccines to enter the country. However, health experts recommend getting a yellow fever shot if you plan to visit jungle areas such as the Amazon.
Yes, travelers must complete this form online before their trip and present it at immigration control to avoid any issues upon entering the country.
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Hi! I'm a Spanish-English translator working with Holafly, helping bring travel content to life for curious travelers. As a digital nomad with a passion for exploring, I'm always adding new spots to my bucket list. If you love to travel like me, stick around because you're in the right place to find inspiration for your next trip! ✈️🌍
