Who Needs to Complete Colombia Check-MIG in 2026?
One of the most common questions about traveling to Colombia is: do I need to fill out Check-MIG? The short answer is almost certainly yes. Colombia Check-MIG is a mandatory pre-arrival migration form required for virtually all travelers entering the country by air. This page clarifies exactly who needs it, who may be exempt, and what the rules mean for different types of travelers.
For a general overview of the form and process, visit our Colombia Check-MIG complete guide.
All Foreign Tourists and Visitors
Any foreign national entering Colombia for tourism, leisure, or visiting family and friends must complete Check-MIG. This applies regardless of your nationality – whether you are visa-exempt or hold a Colombian visa.
Business Travelers
Travelers entering Colombia for business meetings, conferences, or commercial activities must complete Check-MIG and declare the purpose of their visit as “business.”
Students
Travelers arriving to study in Colombia – whether on short courses, language programs, or university degrees – must complete Check-MIG.
Colombian Nationals Living Abroad
Colombian citizens returning to Colombia from a trip overseas must also complete Check-MIG. The form is not just for foreigners – it applies to Colombian nationals arriving from international destinations as well.
Permanent Residents of Colombia
Foreign nationals holding Colombian residency (Permiso de Residencia y Permanencia – PRP) must also complete Check-MIG when returning from international travel.
Transit Passengers (Some Cases)
Travelers with a layover in Colombia who pass through immigration must complete Check-MIG. Travelers on airside transit – staying within the international zone without passing through immigration – typically do not need it.
Who May Be Exempt?
Exemptions are very limited:
- Diplomatic passport holders – accredited diplomats on official missions
- Certain government officials – on official state visits with prior coordination
- Airside transit passengers – who do not pass through Colombian immigration
If you are unsure whether you qualify for an exemption, complete Check-MIG anyway. There is no penalty for completing it when not strictly required, but there are potential consequences for failing to complete it when required.
Check-MIG by Nationality
While Check-MIG applies to all nationalities, broader entry requirements (visa rules) differ by country. We have dedicated guides for:
- US citizens – no visa required for stays up to 90 days
- UK citizens – no visa required for stays up to 90 days
- EU citizens – most EU nationalities are visa-exempt
- Canadian citizens – no visa required for stays up to 90 days
- Australian citizens – no visa required for stays up to 90 days
Age Requirements – Do Children Need Check-MIG?
Yes. Check-MIG is required for travelers of all ages, including infants and young children. Parents or guardians must complete the form on behalf of minors using the child’s passport details. Each person in your travel group, regardless of age, needs their own individual registration.
Multiple Entries to Colombia
If you leave Colombia and re-enter during the same trip (for example, on a day trip to a neighboring country), you need to complete a new Check-MIG for your return entry. Each entry requires its own submission.
Land Borders and Sea Ports
Check-MIG requirements primarily apply to air travel. Rules for land border crossings and sea entry points may differ. If entering Colombia overland or by sea, verify the latest requirements from Migración Colombia before travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my baby need a Check-MIG?
Yes. Every traveler including infants needs their own Check-MIG registration. You can complete it on behalf of your child using their passport information.
Do I need a new Check-MIG if I leave Colombia and come back?
Yes. Each entry into Colombia requires a separate Check-MIG submission. If you exit and return during your trip, submit a new form.
Do Colombian passport holders need Check-MIG?
Yes. Colombian nationals returning from international travel must also complete Check-MIG before their arrival.
Does a transit passenger need Check-MIG?
Only if they pass through immigration. Airside transit passengers who remain in the international zone and do not pass through Colombian immigration typically do not need Check-MIG.
