Do you need a passport to go to Colombia?

Is a Passport Necessary to Enter Colombia?

Foreign travelers who don’t hold Colombian citizenship and plan to visit Colombia must have a passport valid for at least 6 months. It is obligatory to have a passport while entering and leaving the country. Check all the information before your trip and prepare documents to avoid unpleasantness.

Do you need a passport if you have Colombian citizenship?

If you are Colombian, you don’t have to provide a passport upon your arrival in the country. Nevertheless, you must prove your citizenship through government identification documents. A Colombian passport can be a simple way for that.

Is a Visa and Check-MIG Mandatory to go to Colombia?

A Colombian visa is a must-have in case you are not from the visa-exempt country, want to travel to Colombia for a different purpose than leisure or for a longer time. A check-MIG form is necessary for all travelers.

Now, around 100 nationalities can travel to Colombia without a visa for up to 90 days for relaxing, sightseeing, visiting friends, etc. Also, it is possible to extend the stay in this case. Note that your passport must be valid to cross the border. Only Colombian citizens don’t need to have it.

Colombia Visa Requirements

The Colombia visa requirements depend on many factors, such as nationality and the specific visa type. Generally, you should prepare the following:

• a valid passport
• a passport photo that meets the conditions (must be recent, on a white background with the entire face visible, and have dimensions of 3 cm x 4 cm)
• travel itinerary
• proof of accommodation
• evidence of financial resources
• proof of relationship, details of event, invitation letter, certificate, etc., depending on the Colombian visa type
• other documents requested by the local authorities.

What documents are needed to enter Colombia?

In order to have a hassle-free trip, you need to prepare all the required documents beforehand. Below, you can check what you should have:

• hotel accommodation proof
• a visa (if applicable)
• a passport valid for at least 6 months
• an ID card
• yellow fever vaccination evidence (if you come from the risk area).

What if my Passport was Stolen or Lost?

In case of a lost or stolen passport, you must obtain a new one before departure. Also, you should report the loss to the Colombian National Police website. To get a new passport, you need to:

• contact the embassy and police
• wait for the information
• prepare necessary documents
• go to the appointment
• collect emergency travel documents.

Typical Costs and Budget for Colombia

Suppose you want to consider the typical budget for a trip to Colombia. In that case, you should prepare around 50 euros for a day per person in order to enjoy basic comfort, go on trips, and eat at restaurants while visiting Colombia.

Usually, accommodation at hostels costs from 7 to 14 euro and at hotels from 11 to 23 euro. Note that during the peak season, you will spend more than that. Food per meal is around 4 to 6 euro, and transportation by bus is up to 9 euro. Besides, it is advised to take an Uber, as it is a cheaper option than a taxi.

Safety in Colombia

If you plan to go to Colombia, keep in mind that demonstrations may occur at any time. The protest can be very violent, so it is advisable to check all the information on the local media.

Besides, the crime rate is relatively high, even though some security improvements have been made. There are many criminal groups there involved in drug trade, kidnapping, money laundering, and prostitution.

It is worth knowing that street crime is a problem in big cities such as Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and the Caribbean coast. Be aware of pickpocketing or robberies. Avoid dark/deserted areas, and don’t carry valuable items or large amounts of money.

Vaccine Information for Colombia

Right now, travelers don’t need to be vaccinated in order to visit Colombia (only those arriving from the risk areas must show yellow fever vaccination proof). Some vaccines are recommended but not mandatory, such as those against Hepatitis A and Typhoid fever.

When it comes to COVID-19, no vaccine certificates or tests are needed. However, remember that the situation can change anytime, so check all the news.

Trip with children

In order to prevent international child abduction, Colombian law states that travelers who exit Colombia with children under the age of 18 years old must have both parents’ written permission authenticated by the notary and each child’s birth certificate. The letter from parents should contain the destination, the purpose of the travel, as well as the departure and return date. Check more information on the consulate website.

Aleksandra

Aleksandra is an experienced visa expert passionate about writing and creating professional content. She loves reading fantasy books, traveling, and board games. 📚🐱✨