Though the security situation in Colombia has improved in recent years, terrorism and serious criminal activities remain significant threats. Disabling Drugs: We receive regular reports of criminals using drugs to temporarily incapacitate unsuspecting victims and then rob or assault them. The Colombia-Venezuela border region is currently volatile. International Travel Restrictions Nonresident foreign nationals 18 years and older who are not fully vaccinated are allowed to enter Colombia as long as they show a negative result from a PCR test taken within 72 hours or an antigen test taken within 48 hours before their travel to the country. Return to the United States from the Philippines: As of Sunday, June 12 at 12:01 a.m. EDT, the CDC rescinded its Order requiring all airline or other aircraft passengers to show a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 to board any aircraft destined to the United States from a foreign country. Check benefits and financial support you can get, Find out about the Energy Bills Support Scheme, nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission, National Travel Health Network and Centre website, View a printable version of the whole guide, About Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office travel advice, the departments of Arauca and Guaviare (except their capital cities), the department of Choc (except its capital Quibd, the whale-watching towns of Nuqu and Baha Solano, and the tourist site of Capurgan), the Ariari region of southern Meta (except the tourist site of Cao Cristales - if travelling to Cao Cristales, travel by air to and from the town of La Macarena with a reputable tour company), the South Pacific, Sanquianga and Telembi regions of Nario, Buenaventura in the department of Valle del Cauca, the Urab and Bajo Cauca regions of Antioquia, the Catatumbo region of Norte de Santander, Orito, San Migue, Valle del Guamuez, Puerto Caicedo, Puerto Guzmn, Puerto Asis and Puerto Leguizamo in Putumayo, Cartagena del Chair, San Vicente del Caguan, Puerto Rico, El Doncello, Paujil and La Montaita in Caquet, the municipality of Puerto Carreo in Vichada, except the departmental capital. Now, most travelers do not need to be vaccinated against Covid-19 to enter Colombia, although there are some caveats. Email: ACSBogota@state.gov, U.S. Consular Agency Barranquilla Check with your travel provider to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements. Large public demonstrations can take place for a variety of political and economic issues. Transiting through Colombia on your way to another country is permitted as long as you comply with all of the standard mandatory COVID-19 entry requirements. Demonstrations can be unpredictable; avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. The threat comes from the National Liberation Army (ELN), dissidents from the demobilised FARC guerrilla group (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia), and other illegal armed groups. Be aware that any person born in Colombia or of Colombian parentage may be considered a Colombian citizen, even if never documented as such. The 'Darien Gap' is a dangerous area renowned for the presence of several illegal armed groups, illegal migration, and drugs trafficking. Open to international travellers: . Demonstrations occur regularly throughout the country. Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. The test will have to be carried out in the 72 hours prior to arrival in Colombia -48 hours if it is an antigen test-. Email: conagencybarranquilla@state.gov. Review all the immigration and health requirements before your travel. Entry requirements. As with other mosquito-borne viruses, all precautions should be taken to avoid bites. Emergency after-hours telephone: +(57) (601) 275-4021 Visa Requirements for Colombia In order to enter the country, you will need a valid passport and visa. Malaysia: Malaysia has lifted interstate and international travel restrictions for residents fully vaccinated against COVID-19 updated: 29 Jan 2022. Street crime is a problem in major cities, including Bogot, Medelln, Cali and Santa Marta. Credit card and ATM fraud occurs, as well as card overcharging, especially in popular tourist areas. Source. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctors prescription. The security situation can change very quickly in many areas of the country. If you're 18 years of age or older, you must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least 14 days before you enter Colombia. Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms. What requirements should I get to apply for the Colombia Check-MIG? Certain regions, especially in rural areas, experience higher instances of harassment/violence against LGBTQI+ communities, and most recently there has been an uptick of homicides specifically targeting gay men in Medelln. Any traveler entering with a Colombian visa of any type (as opposed to visa-free entry described above) with more than three months validity must register the visa at a Migracin Colombia office or online within 15 days of arrival in Colombia or face fines. Colombias land, sea and river borders are open. There is no road crossing between Colombia and Panama. If you are planning to drive in Colombia, you should be extremely careful. While Colombians are the primary targets, foreigners can also be targeted, especially those working for (or perceived to be working for) oil, mining and related companies. International Financial Scams: See theDepartment of State and theFBI pages for information. All restrictions or requirements around COVID-19 have been lifted. Take care of your personal belongings and avoid obvious displays of wealth. The use of drugs by criminals in Colombia to subdue their victims is relatively frequent. U.S. citizens are advised not to travel to the border of Colombia and Venezuela. There is a high incidence of malaria in low-land tropical areas, particularly in Choco and north-western Antioquia. Contact relatives or friends with your written consent. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water. You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State. There is a risk of kidnapping from both terrorist and criminal groups. This rule is strictly enforced and moving a vehicle or leaving the scene of an accident may constitute an admission of guilt under Colombian law. At least 14 days must have passed since your second dose of the vaccine to be considered fully vaccinated. Source. Nevertheless, they all begin with an electronic application through the Cancillera and have the following general requirements, with the special requirements for each . If youre travelling to the Islands of San Andres, Providencia or Santa Catalina you must purchase a tourist card from the airport you are travelling from, usually at the boarding gate, on the day of the flight. Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. We do not pay medical bills. The package of documents for tourists wishing to stay in Colombia for more than 90 days includes: Passport valid for at least 3 more months; copies of the 1st page of the foreign passport (it is desirable to provide in 2 copies); a certificate confirming the financial viability of the applicant; You are advised to take medical advice on anti-malarial medication prior to travel, and after arrival, take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes by using bed nets and repellents, and wearing closed shoes, long sleeves and trousers. Take particular care when travelling alone, using ATMs, or travelling in or near tugurios (slum areas). Table of Contents. The Embassy operates an out-of-hours service for Irish citizens requiring emergency consular assistance. 7.4M subscribers in the travel community. Between 24 hours and 1 hour before departure, you mustfill out the Check-Mig form , available on the Migracin Colombia website. Ecuadorian immigration officials may deny entry to travellers not in possession of an exit stamp from Peru/Colombia. . You should not use any of the Colombia-Venezuela land crossings. News stories, speeches, letters and notices, Reports, analysis and official statistics, Data, Freedom of Information releases and corporate reports. VACCINATIONS: Yellow fever vaccination is required for travelers coming from certain countries or visiting certain national parks. Colombia is prone to heavy rains, which can affect large areas of the country, particularly in the Andes regions and during the rainy seasons of April to May and October to November. The CDC's latest guidance on international travel for vaccinated people can be foundhere. See our webpage for moreinformation on insurance providers for overseas coverage. This report provides an overview of the travel & tourism sector in Colombia covering demands & flows, traveler spending, airlines, hotels, car rental, travel intermediaries, and key . The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Colombia. Firearms and knives are prevalent in Colombia and often used in muggings and robberies under the threat of violence. Frequently, their aim is focused on unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as: In Colombia, the National Liberation Army (ELN), the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia - Peoples Army (FARC-EP), and Segunda Marquetalia terrorist organizations continue plotting and executing attacks. When consular support is unavailable, the British Embassy will liaise with local authorities to request assistance. information on insurance providers for overseas coverage, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, Ministry for Health and Public Safety website, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Read the entire Travel Advisory. BOGOTA, April 25 (Reuters) - Colombia will lift a face mask mandate for some indoor spaces from May 1, President Ivan Duque said on Monday, though coverings will still be required on. Although Colombia has many elective/cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies widely. Updated information on penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs. Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome. High-profile public events (sporting events, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.). There have been reports, including in Bogot, of bogus policemen approaching foreigners to inspect documents or foreign currency. Provide general information regarding the victims role during the local investigation and following its conclusion. Visit theMinistry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourismwebsite for the most current visa information. Travelers can check with the Embassy of Colombia in the United States to ensure the medication is legal in Colombia. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Prepare for you trip to Colombia. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments. Common scams include: Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Embajada de Irlanda See ourRoad Safety page for more information. You can contact the emergency services in Colombia by dialling 123. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include: People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. If you are allowing your passport to be photocopied, keep it in your sight at all times. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for a tourist/business stay of 60 days or less. Maldives updated: 30 Mar 2022. Repair and replacement parts for aids/equipment/devices are available. Only use pre-booked taxis. Surgical masks must be used by all passengers above 2 years of age throughout the journey, from entering the air terminal, during the flight and at the port of arrival. Children aged 17 and under do not need to show proof of vaccination or negative PCR test to enter Colombia. Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC), Your contact details (mobile phone number or phone number of where you're staying), Bring your international driving license and make sure you have adequate and appropriate insurance, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is against the law and you risk being detained, fined or banned from driving if caught, Keep your vehicle doors locked and your bags kept out of sight to prevent opportunistic bag-snatching if you're stopped at traffic lights. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. You will receive a confirmation email that you will need to present upon arrival in Colombia. Contracts with promises of large commissions. Quarantine rules, test requirements, . If you are a victim of a crime while in Colombia, report it to the local police immediately. Yes As of May 1, 2022, visitors to Colombia ages 18 or older must provide proof of complete vaccination for entry or a negative COVID test (48 hours in advance of travel for an antigen test or 72 hours in advance of travel for a PCR test). Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Colombia are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long pre-trial detention and lengthy prison sentences under harsh conditions, with significant expense and hardship for themselves and their families. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers in the Amazon region, even for short stays. In March 2022 the FARC-EP is believed to have been responsible for carrying out two IED attacks on police establishments in Bogota, killing two children and wounding several other people. We strongly advise against entering Colombia overland. Well send you a link to a feedback form. Telephone: +(57) (601) 275-2000 For more information, see our Terrorism page. Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. You should remain vigilant, avoid all demonstrations, and monitor local media for the latest information. Spiritual cleansing and ayahuasca ceremonies, offered by shamans and other individuals, have led to serious illness, injury, assault and even death. 2. If the passenger is not fully vaccinated, they can present a negative result from a PCR test taken within 72 hours of boarding or a negative result from an antigen test taken within 48 hours to boarding. Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Colombia. In case of emergency, you can contact us by telephone on+57 1 657 6060(from an Irish phone),(1) 657 6060(from a Colombian landline), and031 657 6060(from a Colombian mobile number). If you are hiring a vehicle, we advise you not to hand over your passport as a form of security. 1st May 2022 - In areas with vaccination rates between 40-70%, masks are only required in medical settings and on all modes of transport. The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks. You have rejected additional cookies. In addition, all other children over 6 and under 18 should be allowed to travel with a negative PCR test taken at the earliest 72 hours before departure. Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. U.S. citizens attempting to enter Venezuela without a visa have been charged with terrorism and other serious crimes and detained for long periods. Photos from my visit in 2022. . Illegal armed groups are active throughout Colombia and present a significant risk to safety. See Terrorism. If you want to drive: Drug trafficking is a serious crime in Colombia and drug smugglers face severe penalties, usually receiving long terms of imprisonment. 1. Citizens should be particularly vigilant in bars and nightclubs, where in particular young women have been reported to target foreign men with scopolamine. Arauca, Cauca, and Norte de Santander Departments Level 4: Do Not Travel. All applications filed on or after October 22, 2022, will need to meet the new rules. India. Highways are often unmarked and unlit, and do not have signs indicating destinations. Colombia citizens cannot travel to 15 countries. Until October 21, 2022, the existing visa categories, requirements, processes, and processing times remain unchanged. Check your government's travel advice webpage for more information about returning from Colombia. If youre a British/Colombian dual national, you must enter and leave Colombia using your Colombian passport and Colombian identification card (Cedula). Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. You can report the loss or theft on the Colombian National Policewebsite. For hours and services, please visit theU.S. Embassy Bogota website. Contact the Irish Embassy in Bogot if you require assistance. Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission. Article 79 of Resolution No. Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! U.S. citizens attempting to enter Venezuela without a visa have been charged with terrorism and other serious crimes and detained for long periods. Citizens should check with local authorities for up-to-date information on any restrictions that may be in place in their locality. When entering the country, you may need to provide evidence of return or onward travel. Crime is prevalent in Colombia and you should take sensible precautions. Petty theft, such as pick-pocketing and bag-snatching, is relatively common in Colombia, including at the airport in Bogot, on public transport, and near hotels. If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country youre transiting. The Colombia-Venezuela border is not clearly marked, and U.S. citizens should not go near the border due to the risk of crossing into Venezuela accidentally. Well send you a link to a feedback form. Travel & Tourism in Colombia (2022) Pages: 58 Published: October 31, 2022 Report Code: GDTTCS-22-10. There are different turnaround times if youre applying to renew or replace your British Passport from another country. As of December 14, 2021, proof of being fully vaccinated is required for entry. These passengers, regardless of citizenship or . The non-accompanying parent(s) must write a letter giving permission for the child to leave Colombia. Get advice from your doctor before you travel, particularly if you plan to carry out activities such as hiking in high-altitude areas. Irish citizens don't need a visa to visit Colombia for periods of up to 90 days. What are the rules relating to the vaccine pass? Passengers 18 years and older arriving in Colombia by air or land must show proof of full vaccination upon arrival. Colombia - Venezuela Border Level 4: Do Not Travel Childhood vaccinations are required by Colombian law for children ages six and under. If you are a dual British/Colombian national you must have a valid Colombian travel document (passport) in order to be allowed to depart a UK Emergency Travel Document cannot substitute this requirement. The passport must be valid for at least six months after your arrival date in Colombia. US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Check whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centres TravelHealthPro website. Colombia Travel Restrictions Summary. Scopolamine, a fast-acting incapacitating drug, is often surreptitiously applied to food, drinks, and hand sanitizer vials by criminals to rob or assault their victims. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message. Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Colombia. Top countries include Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria and Antigua and Barbuda. Edificio Tierra Firme Fully vaccinated travelers must book and pay for a post-arrival . U.S. citizens traveling overland must enter Colombia at anofficial border crossing. Find information ondual nationality,prevention of international child abduction,andcustoms regulationson our websites. Ceremonies involve consuming substances that are not regulated and can cause medical complications and severely impair cognitive and physical abilities. Addition of information on taking medication into Colombia ('Local laws and customs' and 'Health' pages). They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. The Colombia Check-MIG is an obligatory document for everyone, even national citizens wishing to visit other countries. January 26 - 215 social leaders were murdered in Colombia in 2022 According to the Colombian Ombudsman's Office, a total of 215 murders of social activists and human rights defenders were committed in Colombia in 2022, a significant increase from the 145 cases the previous year. Failure to do so may result in a fine on departure. Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance. The same requirements are valid for travelers from recently endemic countries at high risk of re-importation of poliovirus, i.e. Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). All passengers arriving in Colombia are required to register their details on the Colombian governmentsCheckMig applicationwithin 72 hours prior to boarding an inbound or outbound flight. To apply for the M-11 retirement visa, you first need to show that your pension pays out three times the Colombian minimum wage, which equates to around 3.000.000COP (USD 784) a month. You may be able to extend your stay once you are in Colombia by up to 120 days by applying at the immigration office Migracin Colombia. If youre fully vaccinated, you can enter Colombia without needing to test or quarantine for flight arrivals. Entry Open for vaccinated visitors COVID-19 testing Not required Quarantine Not required for vaccinated visitors Restaurants Open Bars Masks Recommended in enclosed environments and public transportation. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. Exercise caution on city streets, especially after dark. You can get a tourist visa from the Colombian consulate or embassy in your country of residence. Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers in a private vehicle. Your legal options in cases of malpractice are very limited in Colombia. Transportation of DOGS as NESAN (to/ from and within Colombia): Remember that dogs must be placed at the passenger's feet or under the front seat. If your passport is lost or stolen, it can take up to three weeks to get a replacement, due to time and distance factors. Check the latest entry requirements with the Colombian Consulate General in London before you travel. Colombia is in an active seismic zone, which can prove dangerous. For examples, see our website oncrimes against minors abroadand theDepartment of Justicewebsite. We use some essential cookies to make this website work. Dont worry we wont send you spam or share your email address with anyone. You will be required to show an onward or return ticket valid within the 90 day period allowed for their entry into Colombia as a visitor. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp that will be required. Emergency after-hours telephone: +(57) (601) 275-4021 U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. The friendly people, beautiful architecture and culture, as well as the delicious food and sunny beaches, are also great reasons to pay a visit Colombia Visa Read More DURING YOUR VISIT It is not necessary to wear masks outdoors or indoors. Both countries are Spanish-speaking nations, the shared language makes Spain an ideal destination for Colombian tourists and . 24th February 2022 - Colombia will no longer require face masks to be worn outside in areas where 70% or more of the population are vaccinated. You can change your cookie settings at any time. FOR MORE IN-DEPTH INFO: Bolivia Travel Restrictions. Travel by road outside the major cities, including by public transport, is dangerous. U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries have introduced a Travel Health Certificate for visitors. Since 14 March 2022, the "vaccine pass" has been lifted in France in all areas where it was previously required (cultural and leisure venues, commercial catering, professional trade shows, etc.). Report crimes to the local police by dialing 123 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +57 (601) 275-2000 or +57 (601) 275-4021 after hours. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. Dont worry we wont send you spam or share your email address with anyone. Before you travel, check the Entry requirements section for Colombias current entry restrictions and requirements. For more information, see the Venezuela Travel Advisory. Cases of chikungunya virus have been reported in Colombia. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. 24B-27, Bogot, D.C. 110111, Colombia Help in domestic violence situations is available, in Spanish, by calling 155 (*155 from a cell phone). The United Kingdom has different entry guidelines for arrival before 4 am on February 11, 2022, and after that hour. All foreign travelers to Colombia must have: a valid passport a completed Check-MIG form a return ticket (preferably an airline ticket) a Colombian visa (if applicable) Covid-19 vaccination certificate (if vaccinated) PCR/antigen test taken 72/48 hours before travel (if unvaccinated) travel insurance with Covid-19 coverage (optional) Colombian citizens traveling with non-Colombian passports may be unable to depart the country until they obtain a Colombian passport. N95 masks (and their equivalents) are recommended for passengers above 60 years of age and those with pre-existing health conditions. Addition of information on. Students: See ourStudents Abroadpage andFBI travel tips. U.S. government employees may not use motorcycles because of security concerns. Drive-by motorcyclist snatchings of cell phones, bags, and valuables are extremely common. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens as U.S. government-personnel travel to these areas is severely restricted due to security concerns.