Requirements for entry into Colombia

Entering Colombia may require careful preparation to ensure that your journey goes smoothly and without delay. Before traveling to this amazing country, it is important to familiarize yourself with the basic requirements and regulations regarding visas, vaccinations, and customs. Whether you are planning to travel with children, pets or simply transiting through the country, you should know what you need for a successful entry and stay.

On our website, you'll find helpful articles that will guide you through the details, from obtaining a visa and required vaccinations to pet transportation regulations and customs procedures. We will also provide information on Colombia's major airports and diplomatic missions so you can easily contact the right services. Explore in the materials and be sure that your visit to Colombia will go without problems and unpleasant surprises.

Most nationalities require a visa to travel to Colombia, but the process of obtaining one can vary depending on your nationality and purpose of travel. Colombia offers several types of visas, including tourist, work and student visas, each with their own specific requirements and validity periods.

Since the beginning of 2022, Colombia has also implemented an electronic visa system (eVisa), which simplifies the process of obtaining entry authorization. eVisa allows you to apply online without having to visit a consulate, making the process more convenient and faster. To obtain an eVisa, you need to fill out an application, provide the required documents, and pay the consular fee. It is important to remember that even with an eVisa, you may be required to present additional documentation upon arrival, such as proof of financial solvency and a return ticket.

Some citizens, including German citizens, can visit Colombia without the need for a visa. This is because Colombia has visa-free entry agreements with certain countries, simplifying the travel process for citizens of those countries. It is important to note that the length of stay without a visa and other conditions may vary, so it is recommended to familiarize yourself with the current requirements before traveling on the Colombia Visa page.

When planning a trip to Colombia, it is important to consider that certain vaccinations may be necessary to protect your health. There are several mandatory and recommended vaccines to consider before traveling.

Mandatory Vaccinations:

- Yellow Fever Vaccination: This vaccination is mandatory for all travelers coming from countries with a risk of yellow fever. It is also recommended for all visitors to tropical areas of Colombia.

Recommended Vaccinations:

- Hepatitis A vaccination: It is recommended for all travelers because the hepatitis A virus can be transmitted through contaminated food and water.

- Hepatitis B Vaccination: Recommended for those planning an extended stay or possible contact with blood and bodily fluids.

- Typhoid vaccination: Recommended for those traveling to remote areas or planning to live in an environment with limited access to sanitation.

- Typhoid vaccination: Recommended for those traveling to remote areas or planning to live in an environment with limited access to sanitation.

- Malaria Vaccination: There is a risk of malaria in some regions of Colombia, so it is recommended that you consult your doctor about the need for preventive medication.

These measures will help you minimize risks and ensure your safety while in Colombia. It is recommended to consult a medical professional before traveling to get up-to-date information and personalized recommendations.

Traveling with children to Colombia requires special attention to preparation and documents. If you are planning a trip with children, it is important to keep a few key points in mind.

First of all, children traveling alone need to have a special entry permit with them. This authorization must be signed and authenticated by both parents in English. Without this document, which confirms the consent of both parents for the child to travel, border authorities may refuse entry.

In addition, children must have a valid passport as it is the primary document for crossing the border. Make sure that the child's passport is valid for the entire duration of their stay in Colombia and has enough free pages for visas and stamps.

It is also important to consider that Colombia, like other countries, may have certain rules and guidelines for traveling with children. For example, it is always best to carry your child's medical documents, including immunizations and any necessary medications.

When planning your trip, familiarize yourself with local laws and entry requirements, and prepare all necessary documents in advance. This will help avoid unpleasant situations and make your trip to Colombia comfortable and safe for the whole family.

Traveling to Colombia with your dog requires careful preparation to ensure your pet's comfort and safety. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:

1. Documents and Requirements: Before traveling, make sure you have all the necessary documents for your pet. Colombia will require a veterinary certificate to prove your dog is in good health. This certificate should be issued a few days prior to travel and should include vaccination information. Deworming and rabies vaccination certificates may also be required.
2. Quarantine regulations: Depending on the country of departure, your dog may need to be quarantined upon entering Colombia. Check the current requirements and deadlines ahead of time to avoid surprises.
3. Transportation: Prepare your dog for the trip by making sure he or she is comfortable and safe. Use a suitable carrier that meets airline standards. Make sure the carrier is well ventilated and spacious enough for your pet.
4. Medical care and insurance: Have contact information for local veterinarians and pharmacies. It is recommended that you purchase pet insurance to cover any medical expenses you may incur abroad.
5. Accommodation: Find hotels or apartments that allow pets well in advance. Check their policies and conditions for dogs to avoid problems at check-in.
6. Health and comfort: Bring favorite toys, food and familiar items to help your dog adjust to the new environment. Make sure your pet has access to clean water and comfort throughout their stay.

By following these tips, you can make traveling to Colombia with your dog an enjoyable and safe experience for you and your pet.

Customs regulations when entering and exiting Colombia play a key role in ensuring a smooth and legal travel experience. Here are the main points to consider:

1. Importing and exporting goods: When entering Colombia, you are allowed to bring in goods for personal use without paying taxes, as long as their value does not exceed a set limit. This limit is $1,000 for adults and $500 for children. For goods exceeding this limit, duties may be required. Pay attention to prohibited and restricted goods such as drugs, weapons, and certain foods.
2. Declaration of Goods: If you are importing goods that exceed the authorized limit, a customs declaration must be completed. Be prepared to show proof of the origin and value of the goods.
3. Import and Export of Currency: In Colombia, you can import and export currency up to the equivalent of US$10,000 without declaration. Amounts in excess of this limit must be declared. Cash, transfers or securities in excess of $10,000 are subject to mandatory declaration upon entry and exit.
4. Prohibited and Restricted Items: It is prohibited to import and export certain types of goods in Colombia, including drugs, counterfeit goods, certain types of plants and animals, and items of cultural or historical value. Familiarize yourself with the current lists of restrictions to avoid problems.
5. Green and Red Corridors: When you arrive in the country, you must choose one of the corridors - green (for those who do not declare anything) or red (for those who have goods to declare). The choice of corridor is determined depending on your goods and whether you have a declaration.
6. Export of Cultural Property: If you plan to export items of cultural or historical significance, you will need a special permit. Such items may be inspected and declared to Customs.

These rules will help you avoid delays and hassles when crossing into Colombia. Familiarize yourself with current customs requirements in advance and prepare for your trip.

Flight times from Germany to Colombia vary depending on the specific city of departure and destination. Direct flights usually operate from major German airports such as Berlin, Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, Hamburg and Baden-Baden to the Colombian capital, Bogotá, as well as other major cities such as Medellin and Cartagena.

The flight takes about 11-13 hours depending on the route. Major airlines operating direct flights between Germany and Colombia include Lufthansa, which provides regular flights from Frankfurt and Munich to Bogotá. You can also find one-stop flights that other international airlines such as Air France, KLM or Iberia can offer.

For a more comfortable journey and to choose a convenient flight, it is recommended to check the schedule and available options with the airlines in advance.

When transiting through Colombian airports, it is important to keep a few key points in mind. In most cases, if you plan to spend less than 24 hours in the transit zone without leaving the airport, you will not need a visa. However, if your transit is longer than 24 hours or you want to go outside of the transit zone, you may need a transit visa.

In some cases, a transit visa may not be required if you have a valid U.S. visa, Schengen visa, or Canadian visa that allows you to be in transit in Colombia. Also, citizens of a number of countries can take advantage of visa-free travel for short-term transit.

When planning your transit, be sure to check the rules and requirements for your specific situation, as requirements may vary depending on your nationality and country of departure. If your transit period exceeds the specified limit, be sure to obtain the necessary visa before traveling.

When traveling through Colombia, it's important to understand how transit zones work at airports in that country. Transit zones are designed for passengers who do not plan to leave the airport and are en route to their final destination. In Colombia, transit zones provide a convenient environment for travelers, allowing them to wait for their next flight without having to go through immigration control or step outside the airport.

At international airports such as El Dorado in Bogotá and Rafael Núñez in Cartagena, transit areas are well-equipped and offer a wide range of services. You'll find comfortable waiting areas, restaurants, duty-free stores and even convenient business lounges. If you have a long connection, some airports offer recreational or entertainment services to make the wait more enjoyable.

Familiarize yourself with the transit rules of your particular airport in advance and make sure you have all the necessary documents to pass through the transit area smoothly.

The German diplomatic mission in Colombia plays an important role in supporting German citizens during their stay in the country. The main institution that provides consular services is the German Embassy in Bogotá.

The embassy provides a wide range of services, including assistance in emergency situations, visa processing, notary services and support in case of lost or stolen passports. It also provides information on legal and administrative procedures that can be helpful to travelers.

Contact information for the German Embassy in Bogotá:

Address: Calle 110 No. 9-25, piso 11, Torre Empresarial Edificio Pacífic P. H., Bogotá, D. C. Colombia

Phone: +57 1 423 26 00

Fax: +57 1 429 31 45

E-mail: info@bogota.diplo.de

It is advisable to contact the Embassy in advance to confirm office hours and appointment availability, as some services require an appointment. Travelers should also familiarize themselves with the current guidelines and requirements for staying in Colombia, which may vary depending on their individual situation.

For assistance in emergency cases, such as lost documents or medical care, German nationals can contact the embassy for prompt support.

Colombia offers a variety of experiences for vacationers, combining exotic nature, rich culture and the hospitality of the locals. Located in the northwestern part of South America, this country attracts tourists with its picturesque Caribbean beaches, the majestic Andes and the green Amazon rainforest. Urban cultural events, colorful carnivals and cuisine that blends indigenous traditions and colonial influences create a unique atmosphere for an unforgettable vacation.