travel_explore Visa for Colombia

checklist Requirements

- A valid passport
- A face photo
- Proof of funds (such as bank statements)
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if coming from a risk region)
- Additional documents (if necessary)
calendar_today December 08, 2025
update Updated: December 08, 2025

visa for Colombia is necessary for travelers from non-exempt countries. Colombian visas can be issued online or at the nearest diplomatic mission, depending on the type.

Electronic Visas are the most convenient, as the process can be completed from any part of the world at any time.

To get a Colombian e-Visa, travelers need to fill in the form, attach documents, and pay the fee.

In the case of a Regular Visa to Colombia, contacting the consulate or embassy and scheduling an appointment is crucial.

Note that those who stay in Colombia with a visa for more than 90 days should register a permit at a Migración Colombia office or online within 15 days of arrival in the country to avoid paying fines.

Besides, almost all visitors must complete the CheckMig Colombia (between 72 hours and one hour before the trip).

Visa-Free Entry to Colombia

Over 100 nationalities may benefit from the Colombia visa exemption for a stay not exceeding 90 days, for limited purposes. This includes most of the Americas, the EU, the UK, Australia, and some Asian countries.

Visa-exempt entry also applies to citizens of Cambodia, India, Nicaragua, Myanmar, the People’s Republic of China, Thailand, Taiwan, and Vietnam, provided that upon arrival in Colombia, they can demonstrate a permanent residence permit or a visa with a validity of more than 6 months issued by the United States or by any Schengen Area member state.

Colombia likewise doesn’t require a visa from foreign nationals—regardless of their citizenship—who can show proof of permanent residency in any member country of the Pacific Alliance (Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Peru) or the Andean Community of Nations (Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru).

Additionally, certain bilateral agreements provide visa exemptions for holders of diplomatic, official, and service passports.

Documents Necessary for a Colombia Visa

Travelers applying for a visa for Colombia must prepare all the required documentation. The files must be up to date, as expired ones will lead to rejection.

Usually, the following documents are required for the Colombian visa:

  • A valid passport
  • A face photo
  • Proof of funds (such as bank statements)
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if coming from a risk region)

Furthermore, additional documentation may be required, depending on the permit type and length of stay.

For example, in the case of a Study Visa, you need to have a letter from an educational institution in Colombia.

How to Apply for a Visa to Colombia

An application for a Colombian visa can be done online or via the diplomatic mission.

Travelers eligible for the Electronic Visas to Colombia are recommended to follow the steps listed below:

  1. Enter the accurate information in the application form.
  2. Check that the details are correct to avoid delays in the procedure.
  3. Attach necessary documentation, such as a face photo.
  4. Cover the fee with the available method.
  5. Wait for the processing and check the email for updates.

In the case of a visa for Colombia from a consulate or embassy, an applicant needs to contact the nearest diplomatic mission directly and usually schedule an appointment.

Then, during the interview, provide the necessary documents. After the procedure and approval, you can receive your Colombia visa personally at the office.

How to Complete a CheckMig Colombia Form?

A CheckMig Colombia is a necessary form for most foreign travelers who want to cross the Colombian border without issues.

It speeds up immigration control, reduces waiting time, and enables better interactions between the authorities.

The CheckMig form must be submitted between 72 hours and one hour before the journey to Colombia. To complete it, it is necessary to:

  1. Share the required information in the form.
  2. Check the details for accuracy.
  3. Attach a copy of a valid passport.
  4. Download the file with CheckMig.

You can save the completed form on your mobile device to show it upon arrival, or print it out for peace of mind.

Entry Requirements to Colombia

To enter Colombia, foreign nationals need to have proper documents, including:

  • A valid visa (if needed)
  • A passport
  • A CheckMig Colombia
  • Proof of onward/return tickets

Remember that entry is at the discretion of the immigration officers. Also, rules and conditions may change at any time, so check all the newest information on the official websites.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need a visa to visit Colombia?
    A visa is required for travelers from countries that do not have visa-exempt status. Over 100 nationalities can enter without a permit for short stays of up to 90 days.
  • How can I apply for a Colombian visa?
    You can apply online or through a Colombian consulate or embassy. Electronic Visas allow the entire process to be completed remotely.
  • What documents are necessary for a Colombia visa application?
    Standard requirements include a valid passport, a face photo, proof of funds, and, in some cases, a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
  • Who qualifies for visa-free entry to Colombia?
    Citizens from many countries in the Americas, the EU, the UK, Australia, and several Asian nations are visa-exempt for short stays. Some other nationalities may also enter visa-free if they hold qualifying US/Schengen Visas or permanent residency.
  • What is CheckMig, and when must it be completed?
    CheckMig is a mandatory form for most travelers entering Colombia. It needs to be submitted between 72 hours and one hour before the trip.
  • What must travelers staying longer than 90 days do after arrival?
    Anyone remaining in Colombia with a visa for more than 90 days must register a permit within 15 days of arrival to avoid fines.

Conclusion

Traveling to Colombia requires understanding whether a visa is necessary based on nationality and travel conditions.

Many visitors can enter without a visa, while others must apply online or through a diplomatic mission.

Preparing the required documents and completing mandatory forms like CheckMig enables a smooth arrival process.

By following these steps carefully, travelers can meet Colombia’s entry conditions without complications.

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Disclaimer

The information presented here is provided for general reference purposes only. We make no warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the content. Visa requirements and procedures may change without notice. Please verify all information with official sources before making travel plans. Should you notice any inaccuracies or wish to report an issue, kindly get in touch with us.