Colombia Check-MIG for US Citizens – Complete Guide 2026
American citizens planning a trip to Colombia in 2026 must complete the Colombia Check-MIG form before arrival. This mandatory pre-arrival migration registration is required for all travelers entering Colombia – including US passport holders – and is completely free. This guide covers everything Americans need to know.
For the full Check-MIG process, see our complete Check-MIG guide.
Do US Citizens Need a Colombian Visa?
No. US citizens do not need a Colombian visa for tourist visits. American passport holders can enter Colombia visa-free for stays up to 90 days per entry for tourism, leisure, or visiting family. The 90-day stay can be extended once at a Migración Colombia office, giving a potential 180-day maximum stay per calendar year.
Do US Citizens Need Check-MIG?
Yes. All travelers including US citizens must complete Check-MIG. Check-MIG is separate from visa requirements. Even as a visa-exempt traveler, you must complete the form at apps.migracioncolombia.gov.co/check-mig within 24 hours before arrival.
Colombia Entry Requirements for Americans in 2026
- ✓ US passport – valid for at least 6 months from arrival date
- ✓ Check-MIG – completed within 24 hours before arrival (free)
- ✓ Return or onward ticket
- ✓ Proof of sufficient funds – approximately USD 30 per day
- ✓ Accommodation details – hotel address for immigration
- ○ Travel insurance – not mandatory but strongly recommended
How to Complete Check-MIG as a US Citizen
- Visit apps.migracioncolombia.gov.co/check-mig within 24 hours of your arrival
- Select English as your language
- Enter your US passport details exactly as printed
- Enter your flight information
- Provide your Colombia accommodation address
- Complete the health declaration
- Submit and save your QR code confirmation
For a full walkthrough, see our step-by-step guide to filling Check-MIG.
Flights from the USA to Colombia
- Bogotá (BOG): Direct flights from Miami, New York JFK, Los Angeles, Houston, Atlanta, Fort Lauderdale
- Medellín (MDE): Direct flights from Miami, New York, Fort Lauderdale
- Cartagena (CTG): Direct flights from Miami, Fort Lauderdale
- Airlines: American, Delta, United, Spirit, JetBlue, Avianca, LATAM, Copa
At Colombian Immigration
Upon landing, US citizens proceed to immigration, present their passport and Check-MIG QR code, provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo), and receive a PIP stamp (Permiso de Ingreso y Permanencia) for up to 90 days. Have your return ticket and hotel confirmation ready if asked.
US State Department Travel Advisory
As of 2026, Colombia is at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. Popular tourist areas in Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and the Coffee Region are regularly visited by millions of American tourists safely each year. Register your trip at STEP (travel.state.gov) for safety updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can US citizens stay in Colombia longer than 90 days?
Yes. US citizens can extend their initial 90-day stay by visiting a Migración Colombia office and requesting an extension of up to 90 additional days, for a maximum of 180 days per calendar year.
Can I work in Colombia as a US citizen on a tourist entry?
No. Working in Colombia requires a Colombian work visa. Remote work for non-Colombian companies exists in a gray area – consult an immigration lawyer if this applies to you.
Do American children need Check-MIG?
Yes. Every traveler including minors must have their own Check-MIG registration. Parents complete the form using the child’s passport details.
What if my US passport has less than 6 months validity?
Renew your passport before traveling. A passport with less than 6 months validity from your arrival date may result in denial of entry to Colombia.
