Colombia Passport Rules for UK Travellers
Quick answer: For Colombia, GOV.UK says your passport only has to be valid when you enter, although Colombian immigration recommends 6 months beyond your departure date. You can visit for up to 90 days without a visa but need an onward or return ticket.
Colombia travel requirements at a glance
Valid on entry; 6 months after departure recommended.
Not needed for up to 90 days, at the officer's discretion.
Must be valid within the 90-day period.
Optional form to speed up entry.
Official source: GOV.UK Colombia entry requirements.
Passport rules: quick summary
- Passport must be valid on entry; 6 months after leaving recommended
- Visa-free for up to 90 days
- Onward or return ticket required
- Tourist card for San Andres and nearby islands
Passport validity for Colombia
The legal requirement is that your passport is valid when you enter Colombia. However, the Colombian immigration authorities recommend that it expires at least 6 months after the date you plan to leave.
To avoid problems with airlines or at the border, following the 6-month recommendation is the safer choice.
Visas and length of stay
British citizens can visit for business or tourism for up to 90 days without a visa, at the discretion of the officer on arrival. You must be able to show an onward or return ticket within that period.
You may be able to extend your stay by up to 120 days, but visitors cannot stay more than 180 days in any 12 months.
Other entry rules
You can complete the optional Check-Mig form before you fly to speed up entry. If you are heading to San Andres, Providencia or Santa Catalina, you must buy a tourist card at the boarding gate.
A yellow fever certificate is needed if arriving from certain risk countries. Dual British-Colombian nationals must use their Colombian passport.
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need 6 months on my passport for Colombia?
Not strictly. GOV.UK says it must be valid on entry, but Colombian immigration recommends at least 6 months after the date you plan to leave.
Do I need a visa for Colombia?
No, for business or tourism stays of up to 90 days, at the immigration officer's discretion.
Do I need a return ticket for Colombia?
Yes. You must show an onward or return ticket valid within the 90-day period.