Everything you need to know to enter Colombia

Traveling to Colombia is an experience you cannot miss. But to make everything flow smoothly, it is key to have your documents in order. Learn the requirements you need to meet to enter the country of beauty, depending on your nationality and the purpose of your trip. Also, discover the best recommendations so your journey through airports, natural parks or special territories, such as

San Andrés and Providencia, among others, is simple and without surprises.

What documents do I need to travel to Colombia?

When entering Colombian territory, all visitors must present some basic documents. Make sure to have them ready before your arrival:

Valid passport: This is a mandatory document for tourists from almost anywhere in the world and it is recommended to have at least six months of validity from the day you enter the country.
Exit ticket: This document can be very useful before the authorities as proof that you will leave

Colombia. It may be either a return ticket to your country or a continuation to another destination.

Proof of financial solvency: Not always required, but it is advisable to carry bank statements, credit cards, or any document proving you have the necessary funds to cover expenses during your stay.
Visa: This depends on your nationality and purpose of travel. Below we explain in detail who needs a visa to travel to Colombia and who does not.
National ID: In some Latin American countries, it is possible to enter Colombia only with a national ID, without passport or visa.

Who needs a visa to enter Colombia?

Colombia has established agreements with many countries that allow entry without a visa for short-term tourism or business visits. Below we explain the most common cases:

Countries that do NOT require a visa

Citizens of more than 90 countries do not need a visa for temporary stays. Among them are Germany, Argentina, Australia, Brazil,

Canada, Chile, Spain, United States, France, Japan, Mexico, Peru, and the United Kingdom, among many others. You can consult the full list on the Migración Colombia website or at the nearest Colombian consulate.

Additionally, according to information from the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, nationals of countries such as Cambodia, India, Nicaragua, China, Thailand, and Vietnam may enter without a visa if they hold a valid Schengen or US visa valid for at least 180 days, or if they have residence permits in these territories.

* The entity is not responsible for the content published or changes made on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs portals.

Countries that DO require a visa

Some nationalities must apply for a visa to enter the country. This includes citizens of countries such as Algeria, Belarus, Haiti, Iran, Syria, Sudan, Vietnam, Zambia, among others. In these cases, it is necessary to contact the Colombian consulate in the country of origin and complete the process in advance.

If your trip is not for tourism

If you plan to come to Colombia for reasons other than tourism, such as studies, work, volunteering, research, or long-term residence, you need a specific visa.

Additional documents worth carrying

In addition to your passport and visa (if applicable), there are other documents to travel to Colombia that may facilitate migration checks or help in unforeseen situations:

Travel insurance or medical assistance: Not mandatory, but highly recommended.
Vaccination card: For some destinations like the Amazon, yellow fever vaccination is required.
Check-Mig: This is the entry form to Colombia, issued by Migración Colombia, to be completed before the trip. It can be done online.
Copies of passport, bookings, and insurance: Keep both physical and digital versions for safety.
Accommodation and domestic flight reservations: Especially if visiting several regions.

Are you traveling to San Andrés or Providencia?

The islands of San Andrés and Providencia are Colombian territory but have special entry requirements:

Tourist Card: All visitors must purchase it, without exception. It can be bought when purchasing the air ticket or at the airport before boarding.

Passport or ID: You must show it when entering the island to validate your entry.
Tip: Include the cost of this card in your budget.

Will you visit natural parks or special territories?

Some protected areas of the country require additional registration. For example:

Tayrona Park or Caño Cristales: Upon entry, you must register your passport as part of security and environmental conservation protocols.
Amazon or Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta: There are restricted areas out of respect for indigenous communities. Check in advance if you need permits or authorized guides.

You can also consult the official website of Colombian National Natural Parks or ask at travel agencies.

Immigration controls: what to expect and how to prepare

The main entry points to the country, such as airports in Bogotá (El Dorado), Cartagena (Rafael Núñez) and Medellín (José María Córdova), have Migración Colombia offices, where you must present your documents. In Bogotá, you will also find points for VAT refunds and Check-Mig management.

At these checkpoints, staff may ask about your itinerary, reason for travel, length of stay, or accommodation bookings. The best is to answer clearly and have your documents ready.

What if I need to stay longer?

When entering Colombia as a tourist traveler, immigration authorities will grant you a permit to stay in Colombia, usually valid for 90 days. If you wish to extend your stay, you can request an extension online or at a Migración Colombia office, always before your current permit expires.

Visit the entity’s platform to book your appointment and check the required documents. Do not exceed the permitted days without authorization, as this may lead to penalties or future travel difficulties.

Recommendations for organizing your documents

Before traveling, create a folder —physical or digital— with all essentials. This includes:

Passport to travel to Colombia and a copy.
Check-Mig QR code.
Travel insurance for Colombia and a copy.
Accommodation and flight reservations.
Vaccination card (if applicable).
Copies of important documents.

Carrying a secondary ID, like your driver’s license, is also useful.

Take advantage of the VAT refund

As a foreign tourist, you are entitled to request a VAT refund (19%) on purchases made in Colombia, such as handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, emeralds, or appliances. To do this:

Buy in stores that offer the Tax Free service.
Keep the original invoices and your passport.
Present everything at the DIAN office, located in international airports, when leaving the country.
Carry the goods purchased in case they ask to verify them.
Final tips for a smooth entry
Check the requirements to travel to Colombia in advance, especially if you come from countries with special conditions.
Have all documents printed and digitalized to access them anytime.
Plan your travel route, especially if visiting destinations requiring permits or additional fees, like San Andrés or natural parks.
Learn about cultural and environmental rules, especially in indigenous territories or ecological reserves.
Register your entry and exit if you visit protected areas, both for safety and respect for the environment.

Traveling to Colombia is easy as long as you prepare well. Having your documents in order, knowing the visa procedures, and respecting local rules will let you enjoy the country to the fullest, without unnecessary worries. Start your journey with confidence and be amazed by the beauty of Colombia!