Before packing for Cartagena, it is important to understand Colombia's entry requirements. For most travelers from Mexico and the United States, no visa is needed for a short tourist visit. Check-Mig can help streamline the immigration process, but the current official guidance describes it as optional and recommended.
Important: this guide is for general informational purposes. Immigration policies can change, so always confirm current requirements on the official Migración Colombia website or with your airline before traveling.
Passport: validity and requirements
To enter Colombia you need a valid passport in good condition for your trip. Check with your airline for any additional boarding requirement that may apply to your itinerary, especially if the passport is close to expiration or damaged.
Do you need a visa to enter Colombia?
Travelers from Mexico
Mexican citizens with a valid passport do not need a visa for a short tourist visit. Immigration determines the authorized stay and may request onward travel, accommodation and proof of funds.
Travelers from the United States
US citizens with a valid passport normally do not need a visa for a short tourist visit. The authorized stay and any extension depend on immigration approval.
Useful tip: if you plan a long stay, work or study, confirm the correct process directly with the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Migración Colombia.
Check-Mig: free, optional and recommended
Migración Colombia currently describes Check-Mig as a free, optional and recommended tool for pre-registering information and streamlining immigration control. Avoid third-party websites that charge for imitating the official form.
- When to do it: from 72 hours to 1 hour before travel, if you choose to use it.
- What you'll need: your passport details, flight number and itinerary, and the address where you'll be staying in Colombia (for example, your hotel in Cartagena).
- Cost: the registration itself is free; be wary of third-party sites that charge a fee to "process" it for you.
Vaccines and health requirements
For most travelers arriving directly from Mexico or the United States to Cartagena, no vaccines are mandatory for entry. However, if your itinerary includes other regions of Colombia (such as the Amazon) before or after your trip, additional recommendations may apply, such as the yellow fever vaccine. Check with your doctor or embassy if you have questions about your full itinerary.
Customs and currency declaration
When you arrive in Colombia, you'll complete a baggage declaration. If you enter or leave the country carrying more than USD 10,000 (or its equivalent in another currency), you must declare it to customs authorities. For most tourists traveling with cash for personal expenses, this isn't an issue, but it's good to know the limit exists.
Proof of onward travel and means of support
Immigration authorities may ask for a return or onward ticket, an accommodation address and proof of funds for the stay. Keep this information downloaded on your phone or printed, even if you use Check-Mig.
Summary: checklist before you travel
- Valid passport in good condition for the trip.
- If you wish, complete the free Check-Mig between 72 hours and 1 hour before travel.
- Have your return ticket and your Cartagena accommodation address handy.
- Bring a card or some cash for expenses — check our Cartagena travel cost guide to budget better.
- If you're coming from the United States, also read our complete US traveler's guide.
- If you're deciding between Caribbean destinations, read our Cartagena vs. Cancún comparison.
Official sources
- Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: short-stay visa exemptions.
- Migración Colombia: entry and exit requirements.
- Migración Colombia: official Check-Mig information.
Frequently asked questions
Do Mexican citizens need a visa to enter Colombia?
No for short tourist visits. Immigration determines the authorized stay and may request onward travel, accommodation and proof of funds.
Do US citizens need a visa to enter Colombia?
Normally not for short tourist visits. Travelers must comply with the entry requirements and period authorized by Colombian immigration.
What is Check-Mig and how do I complete it?
It is an official, free, optional and recommended tool to streamline immigration control. It can be completed from 72 hours to 1 hour before travel.