Colombia entry requirements and online form

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Mandatory for all travelers
Submit form before travel
Not a visa substitute
Matches passport exactly
Colombia requires all incoming and outgoing travelers to complete the Check-Mig form online. This mandatory document enhances safety and simplifies immigration procedures. It must be filled out within 72 hours before travel and matches passport details. It applies to air, land, and sea entries and complements, not replaces, a visa.
Validity
Stay
Gov. Fee
Entries
Colombia Entry Check-Mig
Valid for:
1 month
1 month
Stay:
30 days
30 days
Gov Fees:
$0 USD
$0 USD
Entries:
Single
Single
Colombia Departure Check-Mig
Valid for:
1 month
1 month
Stay:
Exit only
Exit only
Gov Fees:
$0 USD
$0 USD
Entries:
Single
Single

Requirements

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Colombia is a vibrant travel destination offering tourists, business travelers, and students opportunities for personal and professional growth. Entry requirements are streamlined with the Colombia Check-Mig, a mandatory pre-registration system ensuring a hassle-free process. This form is essential for international travelers entering or leaving Colombia and includes several options depending on the mode of entry, such as Air, Land, Maritime, or River. In addition, many international travelers benefit from Colombia's visa-free policy, notably from over 90 countries. However, those from visa-required countries must secure a visa alongside the Check-Mig to ensure compliance with Colombian regulations. This preparation ensures easier immigration clearance and a more enjoyable visit.

Overview and Requirements

Colombia offers visa-free entry to over 90 countries. Colombia facilitates short-term stays for tourists, business travelers, and students. The country has implemented the Colombia Check-Mig pre-registration system for travelers and eVisa for eligible applicants, simplifying the entry process. Visitors come to Colombia for tourism, business, education, investment, or family reunions, attracted by its vibrant history, natural beauty, booming economy, reputable educational institutions, and welcoming atmosphere, creating opportunities for personal and professional growth.

The Colombia Check-Mig application form is a mandatory travel document for all travelers entering or leaving Colombian territory. Completing this online form ensures a smooth travel experience and helps maintain the country’s safety and security. Available in different types such as Entry, Departure, Air, and Land Check-Mig, it requires accurate personal and travel information. The Check-Mig form is not a visa substitute; travelers from visa-required countries must obtain a visa in addition to this form. Proper adherence to the Check-Mig process enables a hassle-free journey to Colombia.

The Check-Mig Pre-Registration is a travel authorization issued by Migracion Colombia that should be filled out and completed before national and international travelers leave from or to Colombian territory. This acts as a perfect tool to assist in reducing the time of interaction between travelers and government officials to address the risks associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. The Check-Mig is also referred to as the Colombia Immigration Form. It is important to note that the form is the same. The Immigration Form (Check-Mig) needs to be filled out online.

Types of Check-Mig and Submission Tips

Some items needed for Check-Mig include an email address, flight number to Colombia, and address in Colombia.

Entry Check-Mig
An arrival check is a mandatory form that needs to be filled out for anyone that is entering Colombia. The entry Check-Mig is only valid for visitors arriving in Colombia, and it is highly recommended it be filled out at least a day before they are scheduled to depart. Failure to fill out this form will only cause headaches upon arrival, as Colombian officials are strict about this measure.

Departure Check-Mig
This form is almost identical to the arrival Check-Mig. It does not matter how or where travelers plan to leave the country because they will all need to complete this form in order to do so. The Departure Check-Mig will ask for similar information as the arrival form. Travelers will need to include how and when they are planning to leave the country, as well as personal details about themselves. This form helps the Colombian government keep track of who is in the country at any given time.

Air Check-Mig
All visitors entering Colombia by air need to apply for their Check-Mig before entering the country in order to bypass any issues. All international airlines will ask passengers going to Colombia to have this form before they board the plane. Travelers will need to know information about the flight they will be entering Colombia on before they fill out the form. It will also ask them for personal information, which needs to match what is on their passports. Travelers who do not currently hold plane tickets will not be permitted to submit the form.

Land Check-Mig
Visitors entering Colombia via land will also need to fill out the form before they plan to arrive in Colombia. They will need to present the form to the immigration agents upon arrival. The MIG form for land crossings will ask people when they plan to enter Colombia and how they are arriving and will request personal information about each visitor. Every individual needs to ensure that the details they enter on their Check-Mig form are identical to the ones on their passports and that all of their travel information is accurate, or they may not be allowed to enter Colombia.

Boarding, Printing, and Visa Information

Boarding plane without Check-Mig
Different airlines have different rules about whether travelers can board a plane without a Check-MIG form. Every airline, however, will want to see the form and will request that travelers fill one out if they do not have one. Similarly, Colombian officials will need to see the form upon arrival in the country.

Printing out the Colombia Check-Mig
Once the Check-Mig form has been processed, we will email it to the traveler, or it can be retrieved from the Natvisa dashboard. Travelers not longer need to print the Check-Mig. It will remain linked to the passport. Keep in mind that there are two ways to have the Check-Mig issued. Keep in mind there is an app that will issue a barcode. They may print it out in color or black and white, as long as all the details are visible. This means that visitors must plan to have access to a printer after receiving their processed Check-Mig form.

Steps to complete the form
The Colombia Check-Mig Form is one of the required documents for travelers to Colombia. It is important to understand that it is not a replacement for the visa. If the visitor is from a visa-required country, they will need to get a visa on top of the Check-Mig. They will need to have the visa handy so that they can show it to immigration officials when they reach Colombia.

Email address
The Check-Mig Pre-approval will be sent to applicants via email. They need to provide a working email address on the form so that they receive the document on time. It will also be available in the dashboard that is provided.

Filling out the Form
It is compulsory for travelers to fill out the Colombia Check-Mig Form. Filling out the Colombia Check-MIG Form is easy as it can be easily done online. Travelers just need to fill out and complete it with their personal and travel details.

Payment Process
Paying the application fee is the last step. They can be doing it through a valid and working credit or debit card. Once processed, the Colombia Check-Mig will be sent to the email address and their Natvisa dashboard.

Documents required
It is not necessary to upload any document. However, travelers planning to visit Colombia must have the necessary documents, including a valid passport, visa (if applicable), and itinerary details. The passport’s number and its expiry date should be mentioned in the application form.

Validity of passport
A valid passport is a must for travelers. Its validity shouldn’t be less than 6 months from the travel date. Once the Pre Registration Form is processed, they can travel to Colombia and stay for a period of 90 days.

Entry port
When traveling to Colombia with a Check-Mig Pre-Registration Form, the international airports assigned for entry are all international airports. Land, River, and Sea crossings are also allowed.

When to fill out: Filling out the Check-Mig with the government website can cause delays as the site doesn’t work often. Registration must be done within 72 hours before their trip. The good news is that Natvisa will accept forms anytime before the trip to Colombia. We will store the online application until its time (within 48 hours of departure). We also have expedited services available.

The Colombian visa
Some visitors may need to get a traditional Colombia visa in order to enter the country; this will depend on their nationality. US citizens wanting to visit Colombia for an allowed visa-free stay will need to visit the embassy for a regular visa. Travelers wanting to study, stay permanently or work in Colombia will also need to visit the embassy.

Entering Colombia as a foreign tourist
Many nationals can enter visa-free for short tourist visits due to Colombia’s lenient policy. Others must secure a Colombia Visitor Visa (Type V) before arrival. This visa typically allows a 90-day stay within 180 days, extendable by another 90 days upon request at a local immigration office. Applicants must submit necessary documents, including a valid passport, proof of finances, travel plan, accommodation details, and application fee. Visa requirements may vary by nationality.

Entering as a transit passenger
Entering Colombia as a transit passenger is a convenient option for travelers with layovers or connecting flights through the country. Transit passengers are not required to obtain a visa if they remain within the international transit area of the airport and do not pass through Colombian immigration. The maximum stay for transit passengers without a visa is 24 hours. While in transit, passengers can take advantage of airport facilities, such as restaurants, shops, and lounges, to relax and pass the time until their connecting flight. It is crucial for transit passengers to verify visa requirements based on their nationality and the length of their layover to ensure a seamless travel experience.

FAQs

What is the capital of Colombia

Bogota

Who is eligible for the Colombia ETA?

Nationals of select countries can apply for the Colombia CHECKMIG. Eligibility depends on the traveler’s nationality, passport type, and the purpose of travel.

I want to update my personal details on a submitted form, but I can’t find an option for edits on the website. What should I do?

Unfortunately, the Colombian migration website does not allow you to edit personal details on a submitted form. If you need to correct any information, the best solution is to submit a new application through migracioncolombia.gov.co. Ensure that all details are accurate before resubmitting the form, and use the most recent submission for your travel documents to avoid any issues during your journey.

Can I use the Colombian migration website to check the status of my application?

Yes, the Colombian migration website allows you to track the status of your application. Log in to your account on migracioncolombia.gov.co if you created one during the submission process. Then, look for a section labeled “Track Application” or “Application Status.” By entering your reference number and any other required details, you can easily check the progress of your application.

Can I extend my stay in Colombia if my visa is about to expire?

Yes, you can apply for an extension. This is typically done through local immigration offices in Colombia. Ensure you apply well before your current visa expires.

What happens if I overstay my visa in Colombia?

Overstaying can result in fines or other penalties. You will need to settle these fines before leaving the country, which could delay your departure.

Do I need to show proof of onward travel when entering Colombia?

Yes, immigration officers may ask for proof of onward travel, such as a return flight or a ticket to another destination.

What should I do if I lose my passport while in Colombia?

Report the loss to local authorities immediately and obtain a police report. Contact your embassy to arrange for a replacement passport.

Are there health or vaccination requirements to enter Colombia?

Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for certain regions. Check the current health requirements for your specific travel itinerary.

What can I do if my entry to Colombia is denied at the airport?

Stay calm and request clarification from the immigration officer. If denied, you may be required to take the next flight back to your departure location.

Can I enter Colombia if my flight arrives before my tourist visa’s validity period starts?

No, you cannot enter Colombia before the validity period of your tourist visa begins. Ensure your travel dates align with the start date on your visa to avoid being denied entry.

Can I extend my stay in Colombia if my tourist visa is about to expire?

Yes, you can apply for an extension of your tourist visa at a local immigration office in Colombia. Submit the extension application before your current visa expires to avoid fines or penalties.

Do I need a return flight to enter Colombia on a tourist visa?

Yes, immigration officers may ask for proof of a return or onward ticket to ensure you plan to leave Colombia before your visa expires. Make sure you have this document ready upon entry.

What happens if I lose my passport with the Colombian tourist visa while in Colombia?

Report the loss immediately to the local police and your country’s embassy in Colombia to get a new passport. You will also need to visit a local immigration office to address your visa status and get proper documentation for your stay.

I’m traveling with children. Are there additional requirements for them to enter Colombia on a tourist visa?

Yes, children may need additional documents, such as their birth certificate and a notarized letter of consent from any parent not traveling with them. Ensure all documents are translated into Spanish if required and submitted during the visa process.

Where can I read more on Colombia entry documents?

See [here](/colombia-info) for more information regarding documents and visas.

Colombia resources