Colombia Entry Requirements

Children under 18 traveling to Colombia have specific requirements. If traveling with both parents, bring the child's birth certificate showing both parents' names. If traveling with only one parent, the non-accompanying parent should provide a notarized letter of consent (preferably in Spanish or with certified translation) authorizing the child to travel. This letter should include travel dates, destination, and accompanying parent's information. If the child is traveling alone or with someone other than a parent, a notarized authorization letter from both parents is required. Colombian immigration takes child trafficking very seriously and may deny entry without proper documentation. If a parent is deceased or the child has only one legal parent, bring supporting legal documentation. Divorced parents should carry custody documents. Some airlines have additional requirements for unaccompanied minors.

Bringing pets to Colombia requires advance planning and documentation. Dogs and cats require: a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel, proof of rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before travel, an import permit from the Colombian Institute of Agriculture (ICA) obtained before travel, and a microchip for identification (recommended). Upon arrival, pets must be inspected by ICA officials at the airport. Some airlines have specific requirements for pet carriers and may limit the number of pets per flight. Certain dog breeds may face restrictions. Service animals have different requirements and should be arranged well in advance. Plan for at least 1-2 months to complete all requirements before travel. Check with your airline about their pet policies and fees.

Tourist visas allow stays of up to 90 days per entry, with a maximum of 180 days per calendar year. To extend your stay, visit a Migración Colombia office before your authorized stay expires. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration officials and typically allow an additional 90 days. You'll need to show your passport, entry stamp, proof of sufficient funds, and may need to explain the reason for extension. Extension fees apply (approximately COP $106,000 or about USD $27). Overstaying your visa results in fines of approximately COP $1,800,000 (about USD $450) plus daily penalties, and may result in deportation and future entry bans. For stays longer than 180 days, you must apply for a different visa type (such as work, student, or resident visa) through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before your tourist time expires. Each visa type has specific requirements and processing times. Some foreigners maintain their 180-day allowance by briefly leaving Colombia and returning, but immigration officers may question this practice if done repeatedly.

Business travelers from visa-exempt countries can usually enter on a tourist entry for business meetings, conferences, and negotiations without earning Colombian income. However, if you will be performing work, receiving payment from Colombian sources, or staying longer than tourist allowances, you need a business visa (Visa V - Visitante). This requires an invitation letter from a Colombian company, proof of business relationship, and other documentation submitted through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. Processing takes 5-10 business days. For short-term business activities, carry documents proving the nature of your visit, such as conference registration, meeting invitations, or letters from your employer.

Colombia has become popular among digital nomads, but there is no specific digital nomad visa. Remote workers who earn income from outside Colombia can generally enter on a tourist entry for up to 180 days per year. However, you cannot perform work for Colombian companies or earn Colombian-sourced income on a tourist entry. For longer stays, consider applying for a Visa V (visitor) with a digital nomad justification, though approval is at the discretion of immigration authorities. Some remote workers apply for a Migrant visa (Visa M) if they can demonstrate ties to Colombia such as property ownership or family relationships. Always consult with immigration authorities or a Colombian immigration lawyer for your specific situation, as interpretations can vary.

Journalists and media professionals planning to work in Colombia should obtain appropriate credentials before arrival. Tourist entries do not authorize professional journalistic activities. Contact the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and consider applying for a journalist visa if you'll be conducting professional media work. Carry credentials from your media organization and letters explaining your purpose. Filming and photography for commercial purposes may require additional permits from local authorities. Colombia has press freedom protections, but journalists should be aware of sensitivities in certain regions and topics.

Students planning to study in Colombia need a Student Visa (Visa V - Estudiante) before arrival or shortly after entering on a tourist entry. Requirements include acceptance letter from a recognized Colombian educational institution, proof of financial means to support yourself during studies, health insurance, and police clearance from your home country. Apply through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. Student visas are granted for the duration of the academic program. You may be able to work part-time with proper authorization. Some short-term courses or language programs under 180 days may be possible on a tourist entry, but verify with the institution and immigration authorities.