A bit late to the party and this might just be anecdotal, but when you go through immigration, just be respectful and try to speak Spanish. My first trip into the country last year, I knew zero Spanish, walked up and said "Hello" and had to show every single piece of information including Check Mig, my Airbnb, contact info, exit ticket, etc. This year, I was fully prepared to do the same, but walked up to the agent and said "Buenos días señor". The guy looked at me and asked if I spoke Spanish. I replied in Spanish saying I knew a little and was learning. He then just stamped my 90 days and told me to have a good day. Again, might be anecdotal, but just having a little respect for the people of the country you're going to might make your life a lot easier.
That's an interesting anecdote! You'd think that they'd be more concerned that people who speak Spanish would overstay their visa, but I guess not lol! But regardless, you will usually get treated better in any country if you attempt to speak their language rather than just being an arrogant gringo who doesn't care lol
As an American I’ve gone into Colombia 5 times over the last 3 years including this year and never was asked anything other then the reason for visit and I don’t speak Spanish.
Very informative video. Excellent! Great that you showed form and how to fill it out. I think that you are the only one who has done so. Very impressive!
I honestly never thought it was that big of an issue until I started seeing comments all over the place from people saying they'd been having a lot of trouble with it!
@@AKJoel a lot of people have trouble with it. Many times it’s a glitch in the system. I have had problems too but the agents at COPA in the airports have helped me. Your video does the best job of showing how to do it. Thanks! Keep traveling and sharing your knowledge and experiences.
Just visited a few weeks ago. They didn't ask to see anything. Just took my passport and stamped it. Didn't ask about where I was staying, why I was visiting, how long I was staying, didn't ask to see check mig or if I had a departing flight... nothing.
Do your check mig on the computer instead of your mobile phone because of the formatting. I had issues finishing the form on my phone because I couldn’t click the some of the buttons. Luckily they didn’t fault me in Cartagena!
I’ve been to Colombia arriving in Bogota 5 times first in feb 2021 last in feb 2023. Never asked for anything but passport and check mig. They will also ask for proof of COVID vaccination when you are in line. I think how you’re treated and what you’re asked is going to vary a lot depending on where you are from, how busy immigration is at that moment, and possibly the airport you are entering.
In March I flew into Bogota from MIA and had connection flight 1.5 hours after arrival to Caqueta. Customs was super fast, only asked where i was going and who visiting... Stamped snd moved on. Didnt provide any documents other than passport. Did my check mig a couple days prior.
You don't need a refundable ticket if you plan to cancel within 24 hour of booking. The rule applies also to non refundable tickets as long as the flight is more than 7 days from the booking date.
@@AKJoel Most airlines have this policy actually. It applies to any tickets. A refundable ticket is refundable even after 24 hour of the purchase that's the difference.
You are correct, people just need to do research and no assume. Been living here since the opened back up after the pandemic and anyone that was visited me hasn't had a issue coming. Then again they always had a round-trip ticket and the airlines told them about the 'first step" in the video. @@papi2011
Um....I just flew into Cartagena on 26 July, and immigrations didn't ask me for anything like that. Customs line was 2.5 hours long, longest customs line I ever been in, but once I got to the representative, it took 2 minutes--passport, return ticket proof and I was on my way.
Save time and hassle by using Onward ticket to show a return flight. It's less than $20 and no need to purchase a refundable ticket. If your flight into Colombia is delayed you may risk loosing your refund on the return ticket you made pan to cancel.
Only Bogota Colombia comes up when you do it through Onward. I’m going to Medellin. Wouldn’t Immigration suspect something if they see arriving to Medellin but returning from Bogota?
@@smart1steve same question im flying to cartagena over bogota and planning there for a week and wanted to go to medellin after by plane also only got a onewayticket noclue what to do now honestly.
Exactly, I do it all the time all over the world. Some people think it is a fake ticket, but it's not. It will automatically be canceled after 48 hours. A cancelation after 14 days for a slightly higher amount is also available.
It's really a sharp time to fill this form out. As you're getting ready to go on a big vacation. The site does not work on all devices. Also I did not get my email sent back to me and tell the last minute. Seriously, the last minute before the flight.
AK - This is very helpful and I wish I had seen it prior to my last trip to Medellin in July. The airline I took, I think it was Avianca, required me to upload proof that I had completed a Check MiG form. One other thing, when I filled it out, Colombian immigration emailed me a PDF copy of the form. I submitted it and it was rejected by my airline. The version I was sent had white text on a white background so about half of the text was hidden. I had to manually edit the form and changed this text from white to black (select all) and then save it as a PDF. Hopefully they have this fixed, but if you have this problem where the actual document seems incomplete, you’ll probably want to do a “select all” and then make sure all the text is set to a black or dark blue font. I am about to sign up for your Masterclass by the way. I’ll be in Medellin on August 21st.😊
It seems that Avianca is one of the stricter airlines. I flew in a couple of days ago and they would let me board without showing an exit flight. Luckily I already had a flight out of the country booked! And awesome news about the Masterclass, happy to have you on board! Remember that our intake for the 1 on 1 workshops ends August 15th!
Bit of advice to all, even though they don’t ask for the screenshot it’s still very important to fill out, once they run your information everything from the check mig comes up, immigration asked for the address for the AirBnB and while I was searching on me phone he responded and said “don’t worry I have the information” and began to recite the address
Ah exactly what I thought, that's why they never ask me for it - because it's immediately registered in their system that I've filled out the Check Mig.
I missed a flight because I didnt know about the check mig , Spirit air told me they cant issue me a ticket without it. So while at the airport I spent 2 hours trying to get it to work but it just kept freezing up on me. And by the time I got it to work , it was past check in time and I missed my flight. But it wasnt just me.Two others guys had the same problem and they missed their flights to Colonbia as well.
My trip to Colombia from Europe was in September 2023. When i arrived in Bogota, i wrongly listened to people and waited for the migration line, while i could pass through the automatic machines and just show my passport. When i left the country i used this way and i didn't wait 1 hour.... Also when i arrived i did not have an exit ticket and when my time came to go to the person who would proccess me, nobody asked for any info on where i would stay or anything. He just compared my passport to the checkmig and let me go.
I just missed my flight today to Barranquilla do to my passport only having one left to expire even dough i was only flying out for 4 days. Lost my flight and have to get an emergency passport by next week
Oh dear I’ve never been there I’d like to visit South America. Yea few countries will let a foreigner in under visitor status with no onward ticket out.
Hey Joel, thanks for this. I'm flying into Bogota next week and didn't see any of this info when I bought the flight. If you got any recs for Bogota, would love to hear what you think. Cheers!
There is a paid Check Mig form that sometimes pops on Google. One time I was at the airport trying to do it before my flight and the one that cost popped up. I luckily knew it was BS and didn't pay Also when you translate the US is often Estados Unidos.
Yes good point about the Estados Unidos! When I was much younger I actually got scammed by one of those websites when I was filling out an ESTA to enter the US - paid $100 instead of the standard $30 lol
Joel, I just entered the end of July and no onward ticket was requested. Been going to Colombia for 7 years now and never had or been asked for an onward ticket
I have always been asked by the airline in the States for my return ticket, and not been given my boarding pass before showing it. By contrast, I have never been asked by immigration in Colombia to show a return ticket. (Always wait until you are through customs if you intend to cancel your return ticket.)
I had a document showing a return flight, but when asked, I simply replied, "No, I am flying to Spain in 30 days!" That sufficed in my case. Just sayin'... it's not a legal requirement, it's just a screening question. Have backup, but it may not be required.
they wouldn't let me board my flight without check mig. the girl at checking helped me go to the site and let me stand to the side and ask questions while she attended other people. Its free. then you show them the pdf output right on your phone. For the exit flight I've always had one. But from what I have heard is buy the return ticket right before the flight then refund when you land as you have detailed.
@@AKJoel Check mig. As you stated, they might have seen it in the system upon entrance but when I was leaving last week I didn't do it, and I didn't have any issues leaving. I did however notice that people other than American or Europeans had theirs in hand-printed. I just left last week and I was never asked coming in or leave out but the DR was different I was asked both times to see the check mig
Yeh ATMs work here exactly like the rest of the world. Just make sure on one of the last screens you "decline" the conversion that the bank is giving you - because they actually add approx. 7% commission to their rate
People are much better off using Wise debit cards if available in your country. The fees your bank charge when you withdraw from international ATMs and the international conversion rate is insane. Wise has significantly better conversion rates and you don't get charged if under 5 international ATM draws per month. Plus it's a pre-paid visa as well so it works everywhere that Visas do, and you can lock it out from your phone/instant reload. Good card to carry around and leave the rest in your BnB.@@AKJoel
Where does is say that the check mig is mandatory? on the check mig page it says "check mig allows travellers to preload information related to their trip". it does not say it's mandatory.
"All travelers must complete the online Check-Mig form at apps.migracioncolombia.gov.co/pre-registro/public/preregistro.jsf between 24 hours and 1 hour prior to arrival in, or departure from, Colombia. Carry a print-out of the form, and be ready to show the electronic version on your mobile device at Colombian immigration." co.usembassy.gov/message-for-u-s-citizens-changes-to-inbound-travel-requirements-and-other-public-health-measures/
If an United States citizen involved in an vehicle accident? I f the U. S citizen was at fault, however he has valid insurance, valid lincese, valid registration would thier passport been tooken away till this accident is full resolved.
I traveled to like 15 countries getting asked for where your staying , when are you leaving do you speak the native language is a pretty standard procedure. I had to wait in the bag room in london because the English thought I was going to illegally stay in UK but I boarded my flight 2 hours later and was in eastern europe. Im just happy its not covid times u had to get like 10 different things to travel it was bad.
Advice on the exit flight ticket… instead of using Expedia, just book a return flight dates a month out, directly with an airline at your airport of origin. All flights booked with airlines are cancelable within 24 hours. So you can cancel as soon as you get through Colombian immigration.
US law states that all flights originating in or terminating in the US (not sure about transiting through the US however) can be cancelled for a full refund within 24 hours. One stipulation is that the flight must take place at least seven days after the purchase date. That said, look for "fully refundable" when you buy your ticket and read the cancellation policy.
Hi AK I will travel to colombia from brazil but i have to change plane in panama . what flight number should i put in check mig, the fisrt one from brazil or the second one that arriving to colombia THANKS BRO
I was in Colombia but my time was up after the extension was up I have a Colombia visa but it is expired if I renew here in America can I return to Colombia or do I have to wait
I usally get a onward ticket for about 15 bucks just to show the ticket agent here in the states and imagration in Colombia just in case they ask for a return ticket but they have never asked me when I arrive in Medellin they ask what address I’m staying in or they just say sabaneta again lol welcome to Colombia
@@Haraaami I also never got asked for a return ticket from imigracion, BUT, much to my surprise, COPA airlines wanted to see one prior to boarding a flight to Colombia...
I have always used an onward ticket ilo of a refundable ticket not just to Colombia but just about ever country your travel to wants to see the exit. Often they forget to check or ask but for $14 it's worth the piece of mind vs if sht happens you don't end up with an expensive ticket you don't want to use on down the line if you can't cancel within that 24 hours for some reason. Some airports only offer free wifi for a hour for example so if a flight is canceled or you miss your transfer due to a late flight your not stuck holding the bag.
Yeah it happened to me on a recent trip. I was flying to Mexico and they wouldn't let me board without an exit flight. It was 40 minutes before my flight and I the airport wifi was dodgy AF haha not worth the stress
I was asked to provide this a couple times then i just changed the subject to how much extra i would have to pay to bring my bicycle and it was never brought up again. This was the airline that was asking, immigration did not bring it up. Maybe it's because i made him switch up his routine by going up and immediately and in a joking matter if i could get the password the airport wifi. He laughed, said something to his co-workers and said have a nice stay. The most vulnerable part to any system is people - i am a hacker and social engineering is a big part of it.
I tried to registered using the new check mig. I fky in and iut theiughout thr year because i gave a multiple entry visa. I started to out my information in the system and it cancelled me out. Gave me a server error. Guess it cant handle too much information from one user as it includes your visa information. I had to byoass this issue by using the single entry mode. Using the registered user mode is broken now.
Whoa interesting, ya since Covid, i’ve noticed that if I fill out the check Mig ahead of time and also speak Spanish to the passport agent they just ask me how many days I’m there, and then they just let me in. However, if I forget to fill out the check mig then they ask me all kinds of questions about where I’m staying with my phone number. However, I’ve never been asked for a return flight, been like 10 times in the last couple years. I always have one anyway, but that’s interesting. I have not heard of that yet until now.
Yeah this last time I entered they didn't ask me for an exit flight either, but the time before they wouldn't let me board without one. It all depends on the agent you get lol
hey AK, thanks for the tips! Coming to Medellin mid Oct, not sure if I want to carry much cash around. Will I survive with credit card and/or apple pay or should I have cash on me at all times? I understand it's a necessity to have some cash for street food vendors, but do most coffee shops/bars take tarjetas? Gracias
If you get your "information is already registered" error message, that means you have a field with wrong information. Double check. Estados Unidos = United States. Like other comments stated, take a screenshot and have your Airbnb address ready. Also, while in the immigration line, keep moving and pay attention. I've seen so many times people either on their phones or talking and forgot to move and left a huge gap, or don't respond when called.
I plan on buying a cheap ticket to a neighboring country as my proof of exit and just letting it expire. What if my exit flight is 2 weeks from when I get in Colombia and the immigration guy says. “Oh, 2 week visit? You get a 2 week visa then”?
I came in recently and told them I was only staying for 2 weeks but they gave me 90 days. but to be safe why wouldn't you just book the exit ticket 89 days in the future?
Great job. Yeah I travel a lot and have never had to produce a return flight ticket, because like you said, and often times im the same I might stay 90 to 180 days and buying a return ticket before I know when Ill return is dumb. Btw...justfly has way better deals on flights, I've used them for years. Something new? I wonder why?
Yeah I've never been asked for it before but I got asked for it a week ago before boarding from CDMX to Medellin. The flight attendant wouldn't let me board without showing her an exit flight.
So even if i choose to go on a vaca in Colombia for 7 days i have to do this check mig thing both ways? And what if i have a roundtrip? Im from Toronto by the way
Does this only apply to anyone that books a one-way trip or is this for round trip as well? I am traveling there in June and would hate to be held back because of documents.
Greetings Joel, Arriving in Colombia am I required to fill out the Check Mig form even if I already have the permanent Resident visa? Thank you for this good information.
If im leaving from melbourne australia to medellin but i have a stop over in los angeles do i still write origin as melbourne or the last stop before arriving in medellin cause ill probably have two or three stops before arriving?
@AKJoel if I'm staying in medellin but the flight to enter is coming from Atlanta to Bogota and then I'm transferring to Medellin...what do I put on the Mig form as Immigration Point?
It’s going to be Bogota that’s where you are entering the country. You will have to go through immigration and customs there then to domestic departures for your connection
Hey Joel. I'm moving to Medellin in late October. Since I'm coming towards the end of the year and the maximum 180 day tourist stamp is within a calender year shouldn't I leave Colombia sometime in January then come back?
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✅ FREE Medellin Visitor's Guide here: www.akjoel.com/ebook
A bit late to the party and this might just be anecdotal, but when you go through immigration, just be respectful and try to speak Spanish. My first trip into the country last year, I knew zero Spanish, walked up and said "Hello" and had to show every single piece of information including Check Mig, my Airbnb, contact info, exit ticket, etc. This year, I was fully prepared to do the same, but walked up to the agent and said "Buenos días señor". The guy looked at me and asked if I spoke Spanish. I replied in Spanish saying I knew a little and was learning. He then just stamped my 90 days and told me to have a good day.
Again, might be anecdotal, but just having a little respect for the people of the country you're going to might make your life a lot easier.
That's an interesting anecdote! You'd think that they'd be more concerned that people who speak Spanish would overstay their visa, but I guess not lol!
But regardless, you will usually get treated better in any country if you attempt to speak their language rather than just being an arrogant gringo who doesn't care lol
Nah, I am going lean towards less anecdotal. I've had a similar experience.
As an American I’ve gone into Colombia 5 times over the last 3 years including this year and never was asked anything other then the reason for visit and I don’t speak Spanish.
@@donman256 did u had to fill out the mig paper before you went?
Maybe because you got suspected to take drugs. I’ve never ever been turned away
Thank you Joel, perfect timing bro, im headed to Colombia for the first time, sitting in SAN airport, filled out form and it worked, no charge.
Awesome mate! Glad I could help!
Best, most updated video on form. Thanks!
I'm glad you found it useful!
Very informative video. Excellent! Great that you showed form and how to fill it out. I think that you are the only one who has done so. Very impressive!
I honestly never thought it was that big of an issue until I started seeing comments all over the place from people saying they'd been having a lot of trouble with it!
@@AKJoel a lot of people have trouble with it. Many times it’s a glitch in the system. I have had problems too but the agents at COPA in the airports have helped me. Your video does the best job of showing how to do it. Thanks! Keep traveling and sharing your knowledge and experiences.
Glad I could help mate!
Thank you so much for this information as I'm leaving for Columbia from the USA in June. I didn't know i needed the Chek Mig. I appreciate your videos
Anytime!
last part is gangster!!! hell yea
Great tips, thanks!
No problem! Glad you enjoyed it!
Much appreciated bro your video is very helpful 100 dios te bendiga amigo
No problem 👍
Just visited a few weeks ago. They didn't ask to see anything. Just took my passport and stamped it. Didn't ask about where I was staying, why I was visiting, how long I was staying, didn't ask to see check mig or if I had a departing flight... nothing.
ok good. because i hate papers,and to fill out papers.no need for check mig then?
Is it honestly true for every visitor.
Leaving for Colombia Monday thanks for the hot tips dide
Happy to help mate, enjoy your trip!
Do your check mig on the computer instead of your mobile phone because of the formatting. I had issues finishing the form on my phone because I couldn’t click the some of the buttons. Luckily they didn’t fault me in Cartagena!
Lol Colombian websites are laughably bad 😅😅😅
I’ve been to Colombia arriving in Bogota 5 times first in feb 2021 last in feb 2023. Never asked for anything but passport and check mig. They will also ask for proof of COVID vaccination when you are in line. I think how you’re treated and what you’re asked is going to vary a lot depending on where you are from, how busy immigration is at that moment, and possibly the airport you are entering.
As of May 2023 there's no more covid requirements for entry
@@AKJoelwhere is there a source stating Covid requirements are no longer in place? I want to book a flight but this is the only thing holding me back
I’m in Colombia right now from the us , he’s right they just ask for passport , plane ticket and check mig
Will they still now ask whatever about covid???
Ive never been asked for a covid vaccine in 4 flights since that scam demic vac requirment was lifted.
In March I flew into Bogota from MIA and had connection flight 1.5 hours after arrival to Caqueta. Customs was super fast, only asked where i was going and who visiting... Stamped snd moved on. Didnt provide any documents other than passport. Did my check mig a couple days prior.
I'm just now doing mine 27 hours before I leave smdh
Awesome. Thank you :)
You're welcome!
You’re a G for this ❤️
The airlines always ask for your check-mig, you can only do 3days before you go and up to 30 mins of your flight, same way on the way out
Exactly
You don't need a refundable ticket if you plan to cancel within 24 hour of booking. The rule applies also to non refundable tickets as long as the flight is more than 7 days from the booking date.
I'm not sure about that one mate, I think that only applies to flights leaving from the US. I vaguely remember reading that somewhere.
@@AKJoel Most airlines have this policy actually. It applies to any tickets.
A refundable ticket is refundable even after 24 hour of the purchase that's the difference.
You are correct, people just need to do research and no assume. Been living here since the opened back up after the pandemic and anyone that was visited me hasn't had a issue coming. Then again they always had a round-trip ticket and the airlines told them about the 'first step" in the video. @@papi2011
Refundable tickets can be cancelled after 24 hours. All tickets can be cancelled within 24 hours.
Brilliant 👍 @@samuelwilliams7331
I haven't had to register to check Meg since covid. I go every year for a month.
Yeh it can definitely be hit or miss
Um....I just flew into Cartagena on 26 July, and immigrations didn't ask me for anything like that. Customs line was 2.5 hours long, longest customs line I ever been in, but once I got to the representative, it took 2 minutes--passport, return ticket proof and I was on my way.
Did your airline ask you for your exit flight?
@@AKJoel yes and you just show them a printed copy of the itinerary showing youre leaving within 30 days.
Useful video
Glad you liked it mate!
Thank you for your information mate!
No problem 👍Glad you found it useful :)
Save time and hassle by using Onward ticket to show a return flight. It's less than $20 and no need to purchase a refundable ticket. If your flight into Colombia is delayed you may risk loosing your refund on the return ticket you made pan to cancel.
Only Bogota Colombia comes up when you do it through Onward. I’m going to Medellin. Wouldn’t Immigration suspect something if they see arriving to Medellin but returning from Bogota?
@@smart1steve same question im flying to cartagena over bogota and planning there for a week and wanted to go to medellin after by plane also only got a onewayticket noclue what to do now honestly.
Exactly, I do it all the time all over the world. Some people think it is a fake ticket, but it's not. It will automatically be canceled after 48 hours. A cancelation after 14 days for a slightly higher amount is also available.
Thank you very much. I plan on coming back to Colombia in a few months. Have a great day!
Awesome & nice shirt in your pic haha!
@@AKJoel Thanks!
Thanks for the video that check mig form is always an issue when I go to colombia
Happy to help! I've heard lots of people having issues with it!
I just got back from Medellin last week and they didn't ask any of this. Just my passport and the address where I was going to be staying.
It's really a sharp time to fill this form out. As you're getting ready to go on a big vacation. The site does not work on all devices. Also I did not get my email sent back to me and tell the last minute. Seriously, the last minute before the flight.
The the site is always having problems unfortunately
2:54 I don’t recall ever having to go thru this, much less an exit flight.
Results may vary but better to be safe than sorry
AK - This is very helpful and I wish I had seen it prior to my last trip to Medellin in July. The airline I took, I think it was Avianca, required me to upload proof that I had completed a Check MiG form. One other thing, when I filled it out, Colombian immigration emailed me a PDF copy of the form. I submitted it and it was rejected by my airline. The version I was sent had white text on a white background so about half of the text was hidden. I had to manually edit the form and changed this text from white to black (select all) and then save it as a PDF. Hopefully they have this fixed, but if you have this problem where the actual document seems incomplete, you’ll probably want to do a “select all” and then make sure all the text is set to a black or dark blue font. I am about to sign up for your Masterclass by the way. I’ll be in Medellin on August 21st.😊
It seems that Avianca is one of the stricter airlines. I flew in a couple of days ago and they would let me board without showing an exit flight. Luckily I already had a flight out of the country booked!
And awesome news about the Masterclass, happy to have you on board! Remember that our intake for the 1 on 1 workshops ends August 15th!
Thanx AK, much needed information for my Medellin trip in November.
Glad it was helpful! Enjoy your trip!
Bit of advice to all, even though they don’t ask for the screenshot it’s still very important to fill out, once they run your information everything from the check mig comes up, immigration asked for the address for the AirBnB and while I was searching on me phone he responded and said “don’t worry I have the information” and began to recite the address
Ah exactly what I thought, that's why they never ask me for it - because it's immediately registered in their system that I've filled out the Check Mig.
I missed a flight because I didnt know about the check mig , Spirit air told me they cant issue me a ticket without it. So while at the airport I spent 2 hours trying to get it to work but it just kept freezing up on me. And by the time I got it to work , it was past check in time and I missed my flight.
But it wasnt just me.Two others guys had the same problem and they missed their flights to Colonbia as well.
each person traveling in one family has to fill out this form? or one form per family?
So it won’t charge your card until after 24 hours or it does charge you card the money then you get it back when you cancel within ?
I'm pretty sure they charge you then refund you later.
Thanks for this!
My pleasure Tommy boy! I've seen you in my emails recently haha
Yeah haha. I admit I didn't know why but I figured Andrew had a reason and I trust him lol@@AKJoel
My trip to Colombia from Europe was in September 2023. When i arrived in Bogota, i wrongly listened to people and waited for the migration line, while i could pass through the automatic machines and just show my passport. When i left the country i used this way and i didn't wait 1 hour.... Also when i arrived i did not have an exit ticket and when my time came to go to the person who would proccess me, nobody asked for any info on where i would stay or anything. He just compared my passport to the checkmig and let me go.
You can rent a outward ticket for $6.99. valid for 3 days.
Also a great idea! That way your funds won't be held by Expedia - this is a good option for those who are short on cash.
where?`
I just missed my flight today to Barranquilla do to my passport only having one left to expire even dough i was only flying out for 4 days. Lost my flight and have to get an emergency passport by next week
Yeh I'm pretty sure you need 6 months left on your passport to travel
If I’m traveling to bogota And I have a connection flight to Medellin do I have to go through immigration twice ?
Oh dear I’ve never been there I’d like to visit South America. Yea few countries will let a foreigner in under visitor status with no onward ticket out.
Thanks for this information! Another helpful video.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I had been in bogota 2022 and remember the check mig which was easy to fill and add the app to my phone and it was free
How long did it take to process And get approved
Before I even left the US I was asked to show return ticket. This is my 2nd time here. I'm getting a digital nomad before my 180 days are up.
Great idea, make sure to check out my video on how to get the digital nomad visa 👍🏾
Good idea about the refundable ticket. Also in US Expedia gives the 24 hr grace period to cancel. Never tried from Colombia, but will next time.
Yup a few people have commented that, sounds like another great option however I'd make sure you have some written proof before you try that.
Funny thing is usually no one even asks you for it in immigration😬
Hey Joel, thanks for this. I'm flying into Bogota next week and didn't see any of this info when I bought the flight. If you got any recs for Bogota, would love to hear what you think. Cheers!
One of my favourite things to do there is climbing up Monserrate - decently challenging but fun!
You are only on a tourist visa? So you have to be out of the country for half the year?
I was on a student visa but it expired in July, so using 180 tourist stamp to see out the rest of the year
@@AKJoel what's the plan for next year? Can you do more than one student visa?
There is a paid Check Mig form that sometimes pops on Google. One time I was at the airport trying to do it before my flight and the one that cost popped up. I luckily knew it was BS and didn't pay
Also when you translate the US is often Estados Unidos.
Yes good point about the Estados Unidos! When I was much younger I actually got scammed by one of those websites when I was filling out an ESTA to enter the US - paid $100 instead of the standard $30 lol
Joel, I just entered the end of July and no onward ticket was requested. Been going to Colombia for 7 years now and never had or been asked for an onward ticket
I entered 3 days ago and they wouldn't let me board without an exit flight. So it really depends who you get, no point risking being turned away.
I have always been asked by the airline in the States for my return ticket, and not been given my boarding pass before showing it. By contrast, I have never been asked by immigration in Colombia to show a return ticket. (Always wait until you are through customs if you intend to cancel your return ticket.)
Cool video
Glad you enjoyed it!
is it possible to fill out that paper when you arrive in colombia?
Very helpful video man I go back to Colombia in October I live in uk thanks
For I’d type do you write passport please can you help me ?
Does Columbia ask for vaccination?
Second name is middle name and first last name is surname is that correct ?
Outbound flights are such pointless bureaucracy. You can rent a ticket for $10 off any "onward flight" websites.
I think it's just so they have some proof that you're not going to overstay your visa.
The frustrating part is Check MiG rarely works
Such a frustrating website!
Great info thank you
No worries Rob! Glad it was helpful!
Flew Into bogota in June and I don’t think I had to fill this out…
Yeah it's hit or miss but better just to do it in case
I had a document showing a return flight, but when asked, I simply replied, "No, I am flying to Spain in 30 days!" That sufficed in my case. Just sayin'... it's not a legal requirement, it's just a screening question. Have backup, but it may not be required.
Yes, results may vary as with everything in Colombia 😂
I have a resident marriage visa to.live in Colombia. I am going for a visit to UK in August for 4 weeks. Do I need any exit visa?
they wouldn't let me board my flight without check mig. the girl at checking helped me go to the site and let me stand to the side and ask questions while she attended other people. Its free. then you show them the pdf output right on your phone.
For the exit flight I've always had one. But from what I have heard is buy the return ticket right before the flight then refund when you land as you have detailed.
Yes exactly - but nobody wants to be doing that with dodgy airport wifi at the last minute. better to plan in advance!
I was asked when I was in the Dominican Republic I didn't know about it until the airplane told me however when I was in Colombia I was never asked.
Which one of the items are you referring to? Exit flight or Check Mig?
@@AKJoel Check mig. As you stated, they might have seen it in the system upon entrance but when I was leaving last week I didn't do it, and I didn't have any issues leaving. I did however notice that people other than American or Europeans had theirs in hand-printed. I just left last week and I was never asked coming in or leave out but the DR was different I was asked both times to see the check mig
Could I complete check mig months in advance?
No - you can only fill out the immigration registration form 72 hours before your trip or up to one hour before.
@@AKJoel alright 👍 thank you for responding to my question.
👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 Thank You ... Brilliant video giving clear & understandable advise
Glad it was helpful!
For Id number do you put your passport number on there and I’d type what do you put on there I’m going back on Wednesday
Good information! Planning a trip soon. Just curious if my ATM debit card works the same way over there? Don't want to carry much cash
Yeh ATMs work here exactly like the rest of the world. Just make sure on one of the last screens you "decline" the conversion that the bank is giving you - because they actually add approx. 7% commission to their rate
People are much better off using Wise debit cards if available in your country. The fees your bank charge when you withdraw from international ATMs and the international conversion rate is insane.
Wise has significantly better conversion rates and you don't get charged if under 5 international ATM draws per month. Plus it's a pre-paid visa as well so it works everywhere that Visas do, and you can lock it out from your phone/instant reload. Good card to carry around and leave the rest in your BnB.@@AKJoel
Where does is say that the check mig is mandatory? on the check mig page it says "check mig allows travellers to preload information related to their trip". it does not say it's mandatory.
"All travelers must complete the online Check-Mig form at apps.migracioncolombia.gov.co/pre-registro/public/preregistro.jsf between 24 hours and 1 hour prior to arrival in, or departure from, Colombia. Carry a print-out of the form, and be ready to show the electronic version on your mobile device at Colombian immigration."
co.usembassy.gov/message-for-u-s-citizens-changes-to-inbound-travel-requirements-and-other-public-health-measures/
@@AKJoel That's information from the US embassy. Where is the official information from the Colombian authorities?
If an United States citizen involved in an vehicle accident? I f the U. S citizen was at fault, however he has valid insurance, valid lincese, valid registration would thier passport been tooken away till this accident is full resolved.
I think this question is better directed to a lawyer, not a UA-camr mate lol
How difficult is it to get a retirement visa?
I believe it's one of the easiest visas to get - let me know if you need a trusted lawyer to advise you
I traveled to like 15 countries getting asked for where your staying , when are you leaving do you speak the native language is a pretty standard procedure. I had to wait in the bag room in london because the English thought I was going to illegally stay in UK but I boarded my flight 2 hours later and was in eastern europe. Im just happy its not covid times u had to get like 10 different things to travel it was bad.
you'd be crazy to ever want to live permanently in the UK 😂
Advice on the exit flight ticket… instead of using Expedia, just book a return flight dates a month out, directly with an airline at your airport of origin. All flights booked with airlines are cancelable within 24 hours. So you can cancel as soon as you get through Colombian immigration.
Good idea, I read somewhere that was only for flights originating in the US though - so people may want to double check.
US law states that all flights originating in or terminating in the US (not sure about transiting through the US however) can be cancelled for a full refund within 24 hours. One stipulation is that the flight must take place at least seven days after the purchase date. That said, look for "fully refundable" when you buy your ticket and read the cancellation policy.
Hi AK
I will travel to colombia from brazil but i have to change plane in panama . what flight number should i put in check mig, the fisrt one from brazil or the second one that arriving to colombia
THANKS BRO
You gotta put the flight number that's entering Colombia
I was in Colombia but my time was up after the extension was up I have a Colombia visa but it is expired if I renew here in America can I return to Colombia or do I have to wait
I usally get a onward ticket for about 15 bucks just to show the ticket agent here in the states and imagration in Colombia just in case they ask for a return ticket but they have never asked me when I arrive in Medellin they ask what address I’m staying in or they just say sabaneta again lol welcome to Colombia
Yeh thats a good idea too! Plenty of sites for that.
Same yeah they never asked for return ticket just where I’m staying basically
@@Haraaami I also never got asked for a return ticket from imigracion, BUT, much to my surprise, COPA airlines wanted to see one prior to boarding a flight to Colombia...
What are the requirents for a person with spanish travel document going to colombia.?
I have always used an onward ticket ilo of a refundable ticket not just to Colombia but just about ever country your travel to wants to see the exit. Often they forget to check or ask but for $14 it's worth the piece of mind vs if sht happens you don't end up with an expensive ticket you don't want to use on down the line if you can't cancel within that 24 hours for some reason. Some airports only offer free wifi for a hour for example so if a flight is canceled or you miss your transfer due to a late flight your not stuck holding the bag.
Yeah it happened to me on a recent trip. I was flying to Mexico and they wouldn't let me board without an exit flight. It was 40 minutes before my flight and I the airport wifi was dodgy AF haha not worth the stress
@@AKJoel Yeah I was just passing through Bangkok and the free wifi was only one hour and the same dodgy.
I was asked to provide this a couple times then i just changed the subject to how much extra i would have to pay to bring my bicycle and it was never brought up again. This was the airline that was asking, immigration did not bring it up. Maybe it's because i made him switch up his routine by going up and immediately and in a joking matter if i could get the password the airport wifi. He laughed, said something to his co-workers and said have a nice stay. The most vulnerable part to any system is people - i am a hacker and social engineering is a big part of it.
I tried to registered using the new check mig. I fky in and iut theiughout thr year because i gave a multiple entry visa. I started to out my information in the system and it cancelled me out. Gave me a server error. Guess it cant handle too much information from one user as it includes your visa information. I had to byoass this issue by using the single entry mode. Using the registered user mode is broken now.
Welcome to Colombian websites 😂
Hey Joel do they require Check Mig for domestic flights, like if I'm flying from Medellín to Bogota, or only if you are arriving from another country?
No Check Mig required for domestic flights - only when you enter and exit Colombia.
Whoa interesting, ya since Covid, i’ve noticed that if I fill out the check Mig ahead of time and also speak Spanish to the passport agent they just ask me how many days I’m there, and then they just let me in. However, if I forget to fill out the check mig then they ask me all kinds of questions about where I’m staying with my phone number. However, I’ve never been asked for a return flight, been like 10 times in the last couple years. I always have one anyway, but that’s interesting. I have not heard of that yet until now.
Yeah this last time I entered they didn't ask me for an exit flight either, but the time before they wouldn't let me board without one. It all depends on the agent you get lol
Thanks great video
Glad you enjoyed it!
hey AK, thanks for the tips! Coming to Medellin mid Oct, not sure if I want to carry much cash around. Will I survive with credit card and/or apple pay or should I have cash on me at all times? I understand it's a necessity to have some cash for street food vendors, but do most coffee shops/bars take tarjetas? Gracias
Theres an app called Rappi where you can use your card to order cash, they charge you like 7% and bring the cash straight to your door
If you get your "information is already registered" error message, that means you have a field with wrong information. Double check. Estados Unidos = United States. Like other comments stated, take a screenshot and have your Airbnb address ready. Also, while in the immigration line, keep moving and pay attention. I've seen so many times people either on their phones or talking and forgot to move and left a huge gap, or don't respond when called.
Yes screen shot of Check Mig and AirBnb address is a great idea
I plan on buying a cheap ticket to a neighboring country as my proof of exit and just letting it expire. What if my exit flight is 2 weeks from when I get in Colombia and the immigration guy says. “Oh, 2 week visit? You get a 2 week visa then”?
I came in recently and told them I was only staying for 2 weeks but they gave me 90 days. but to be safe why wouldn't you just book the exit ticket 89 days in the future?
@@AKJoel ok. I will do that.
Last time i came in....Aug of 2024.....check mig was broken....
Great job. Yeah I travel a lot and have never had to produce a return flight ticket, because like you said, and often times im the same I might stay 90 to 180 days and buying a return ticket before I know when Ill return is dumb. Btw...justfly has way better deals on flights, I've used them for years. Something new? I wonder why?
Yeah I've never been asked for it before but I got asked for it a week ago before boarding from CDMX to Medellin. The flight attendant wouldn't let me board without showing her an exit flight.
I'm flying from the UK to Colombia for tourism, therefore i dont need a visa. But do i still need to complete the check-mig form?
yes you do
@AKJoel thank you sir
So even if i choose to go on a vaca in Colombia for 7 days i have to do this check mig thing both ways? And what if i have a roundtrip? Im from Toronto by the way
Yes - every time you enter and exit Colombia you have to do the Check Mig.
Does this only apply to anyone that books a one-way trip or is this for round trip as well? I am traveling there in June and would hate to be held back because of documents.
You need to fill in check mig regardless of one way or return.
Do you know the best agency with experience for visa applications for African and Asian countries?
Not sure about those continents specifically but Nexo Legal is great:
nexo.legal/contact/?rc=100005
Greetings Joel, Arriving in Colombia am I required to fill out the Check Mig form even if I already have the permanent Resident visa? Thank you for this good information.
Yes you do! Even Colombians need to fill out the form. My girlfriend does it every time.
Gracias. The last time I left & came back into the country was in 2018 so I'm out of the loop. @@AKJoel
not only foreigners, but Colombians also have to fill out those document amount before entering my country.
Interesting, thanks for the info!
If im leaving from melbourne australia to medellin but i have a stop over in los angeles do i still write origin as melbourne or the last stop before arriving in medellin cause ill probably have two or three stops before arriving?
I would put Melbourne in that case, unless you exit the airport in LA.
I'd put Melbourne, cos that's your original port of departure
Appreciate that parcero 👍
I know you need the form to enter, what about to leave Colombia?
As per the rules, you also need to fill it out when you leave.
@AKJoel if I'm staying in medellin but the flight to enter is coming from Atlanta to Bogota and then I'm transferring to Medellin...what do I put on the Mig form as Immigration Point?
just put Medellin, I don't think you'll have any issues
It’s going to be Bogota that’s where you are entering the country. You will have to go through immigration and customs there then to domestic departures for your connection
@@donman256 thanks
@@AKJoel thanks
For entering hosting details, are they asking for the phone number of the airbnb host where it says contanct number?
I've never entered that before - just put your own phone number.
I'm from Melbourne Australia. Do I need a yellow fever vaccination to enter Medellin Colombia?
No you don't. You only need a yellow fever vaccine if you're entering from certain countries which have high risk of yellow fever, such as Brazil.
How about people from spain
Hey Joel. I'm moving to Medellin in late October. Since I'm coming towards the end of the year and the maximum 180 day tourist stamp is within a calender year shouldn't I leave Colombia sometime in January then come back?
Yes, the 180 days per calendar year resets every 1st of January - so if you leave in December and then re-enter in Jan you'll get a fresh 180 days!
Thank you Joel
Visited in July until August, nobody asked me for it
Yeh its hit and miss, you just don't wanna be caught out. I entered 2 days ago and they asked me for the exit flight.