travel to colombia us citizen

Colombia Entry Requirements for US Citizens

Colombia Visa Needed

(for stay of up to 90 days)

Colombia Check Mig Needed

Americans can travel for tourism or business to Colombia with just their valid passport .

However, all American visitors do need a Check-Mig form to travel to and from Colombia . You must complete your Colombia Check-Mig online before entering Colombia and before returning to the USA.

The Check-Mig is a mandatory form for all passengers entering and exiting Colombia.

Find out how to complete the Check Mig form quickly and simply.

Learn How to Request Check Mig to Travel to Colombia from the US

You can register with Migración Colombia, known as Check-Mig, by accessing our site and completing the form with information for your trip to Colombia.

It’s a simple process that takes just a few minutes to complete. Remember that you need the Check-Mig to travel to meet Colombia’s entry requirements for Americans.

To complete this registration, you will need to have on hand the documentation related to your trip .

Enrol with the US Embassy in Colombia when Applying for Check-Mig

While completing your Check-Mig, it's strongly recommended that you sign up for the US Embassy registration service .

Travelers who enroll with this service are sent important security and travel advisory updates such as details about natural disasters and other disruptions. You can also be notified more easily if there's a family emergency back home.

This can be requested for a small extra fee when submitting your Check Mig .

Documents Needed for the Colombian Check Mig for Americans

The documents you need to complete the Check Mig pre-registration are those you need to enter the country.

• Valid and current American passport
• Round-trip air ticket to the United States
• Approved visa for your trip (if you’re traveling for reasons other than tourism or business or for more than 90 days)

It’s important to have this information on hand when completing the Check-Mig immigration registration. The form will request information about your trip, including dates and flight number.

You must also find out which vaccines you need for your trip to Colombia . Consult a medical professional in the lead-up to your trip.

Information to Complete your Colombia Check-Mig from the United States

As an American citizen, you’ll need to provide information about your flights to and from Colombia. This includes the dates of travel, airline, and flight number.

You must also provide biographical data such as your nationality, passport number, country of residence, and place and date of birth.

For the entry Check-Mig, you also need to give basic information about where you’re staying in Colombia .

Information for US citizens who are permanent residents in Colombia

US citizens who are permanent residents in Colombia still need a Check-Mig to enter and exit the country. The entry form is required for all passengers, including Colombian citizens and residents.

If you are a US national but a permanent resident of Colombia, you must provide your information as it appears on your passport . Provided you are traveling with a United States-issued passport, you would add your nationality as United States.

The information you provide must match your travel document exactly.

When to complete the Colombia Check-Mig from the United States

You must complete and submit your form before your flight to Colombia. Through this site, you can apply as soon as you have your flight ticket .

Through this site, you can apply for your entry and exit Colombia Check-Mig. You must complete the entry and exit forms separately.

Can I apply for the Colombia Check-Mig on the day I travel?

Yes, you can apply for the Check-Mig on the day you’re traveling from the US to Colombia. The document must be completed before the conclusion of your flight to Colombian territory.

Applying in advance is recommended in case of delays. If you are traveling today, you are advised to select the Priority Service for 1-hour processing.

Colombia Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Colombia

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Colombia entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to Colombia from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Colombia.

Can I travel to Colombia if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Colombia without restrictions.

Can I travel to Colombia without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Colombia without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Colombia?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Colombia.

Can I travel to Colombia without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Colombia?

Mask usage in Colombia is not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Colombia?

Restaurants in Colombia are open. Bars in Colombia are .

• What US Citizens Need to Know When Travelling to Colombia

Are you a US citizen planning a trip to Colombia? We’ve got you covered. Get all the essential information you need as a US citizen travelling to this captivating country, Colombia. Despite its tumultuous history, Colombia has now transformed into a stunning destination in South America. Before you embark on your journey, take note of these crucial details for a smooth and memorable experience in Colombia.

Discover the vibrant and diverse side of Colombia, with its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. To ensure your trip is both safe and enjoyable, familiarize yourself with local customs, laws, and regulations. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Colombia.

Table of content

Visa requirements for us citizens that visit colombia, embassy of the united states of america in colombia, faqs for american us citizens traveling to colombia, how to dress in colombia while traveling, important festivals in colombia, health in colombia, us citizen digital nomads in colombia.

Visa : Travel to Colombia for US citizens does not require a visa for up to 90 days. However, it is advisable for travelers to consult the nearest Colombian Embassy or Consulate prior to their departure, as there may be certain limitations based on the duration of stay.

Travel documents : Ensure your travel documents are valid for a smooth journey to and from Colombia. This includes having a valid passport, along with any required visas or permits.

Funds support: Make sure to have financial capability and show proof if requested.

The Embassy of the United States of America is located in Bogota. Carrera 45 No. 24B-27, Bogotá Colombia. The embassy offers comprehensive support to all American travelers and residents in Colombia. They provide vital consular assistance, information about the country and its laws, and valuable advice on staying safe while abroad. In addition, they offer assistance in accessing local healthcare services and provide essential visa services. Moreover, the embassy is always ready to assist with legal matters and handle any emergency situations that may arise.

You can find more information on the embassy’s website or by contacting them directly.

What language is spoken in Colombia?

Colombia’s official language is Spanish, but English is commonly spoken in major cities. However, it might be challenging to encounter English speakers in rural regions.

What is the currency in Colombia?

Colombia’s official currency is the Colombian peso (COP). While credit cards are commonly accepted in urban areas, it is advisable to carry some cash with you as a precaution.

How is the weather in Colombia?

Discover Colombia’s Diverse Climate: From Warm Coastal Areas to Chilly Bogota. Colombia offers a wide range of weather experiences depending on the region you visit. Along the coast, the temperatures tend to be warmer and more humid, while the interior parts of the country offer a different climate. During the day, expect temperatures to range from 25-32 degrees Celsius (77-90 F), accompanied by cooler evenings. The rainy season typically spans from May to November in most parts of Colombia. If you’re planning a visit to Bogota, remember to bring some warm clothing as it’s known for its chilly climate. On the other hand, Medellin boasts a pleasant spring-like climate all year round. With Colombia’s diverse climates, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

How to get around in Colombia?

Colombia’s preferred mode of transportation is by bus, with numerous affordable options available from various bus companies across the country. While domestic flights are suggested for traveling between major cities, they can be quite pricey. Taxis are prevalent in most urban areas, but it’s crucial to agree on the fare before embarking on the trip. Car rentals are also readily accessible in Colombia. Additionally, three popular ride-hailing apps, Uber, Didi, and Indriver, operate in the country. Medellin boasts an efficient Metro system, while Bogota is well-served by the Transmilenio.

Do I need travel insurance for a trip to Colombia?

Ensure a worry-free trip to Colombia by investing in travel insurance. Safeguard yourself from unexpected expenses like medical emergencies, flight disruptions, or baggage mishaps. Before finalizing your policy, thoroughly review the terms and conditions for complete peace of mind. Read about insurance – Request a quote for your travel insurance

Genki offers digital nomads and frequent flyers insurance

Consider local customs and culture when dressing for your trip to Colombia. Colombians typically have a more conservative dress code compared to other countries.

Don’t forget to take the climate into account as well. In hot summer months, opt for light and breathable fabrics like cotton in cities like Barranquilla, Santa Marta, San Andres, and Cartagena. For cooler weather in cities such as Bogota and Medellin, make sure to pack warm layers and rain gear.

Many luxurios restaurants in Colombia dont allow men to enter wearing shorts and flip flops.

By following these guidelines, travellers can ensure that they are dressed appropriately while visiting Colombia.

What is the best way an american can experience the colombian culture?

The best way to experience Colombian culture is by taking part in traditional festivals and celebrations. There are many different festivities held throughout the year, such as La Feria de las Flores (Flower Festival) in August and Carnival de Baranquilla in February. These events are a great way to get an insight into Colombian culture, and are sure to create some unforgettable memories. Additionally, you can explore the local cuisine, take part in cultural activities such as salsa classes, or visit one of the many museums and galleries located throughout the country.

What airlines flight from USA to Colombia?

Discover your options for flights from the USA to Colombia with leading airlines such as Copa Airlines, American Airlines, Avianca, Delta Airlines, United, Spirit, Jet Blue, and LATAM. Before booking your flight, don’t forget to compare prices and routes to find the perfect fit for your journey. Ensure a smooth experience by checking each airline’s terms and conditions, guaranteeing that your luggage allowance and other requirements are met.

What is the best time of year to visit Colombia?

The best time to visit Colombia depends on what type of experience you are looking for. Generally, the driest months are December through March, making this a great option for those who want to explore the country’s many outdoor attractions. For those who would prefer to visit during more temperate weather, June through August is a great time to go. Additionally, if you want to experience Colombia’s vibrant festivals and holidays, then visit between December and February when events such as the Barranquilla Carnival and Cali Fair are held.

Which city of Colombia should US citizens visit?

Explore a diverse selection of cities in Colombia, each boasting distinctive attractions and experiences. Discover our top recommendations for US citizens visiting Colombia.

Cartagena is a popular destination for visitors looking to explore colonial architecture and picturesque beaches.

Barranquilla is an up-and-coming city known for its lively carnival and vibrant culture.

Santa Marta is a popular destination for travellers looking to explore stunning landscapes and beaches

Bogota is the country’s capital city and offers plenty of cultural attractions and historical sites.

Medellin is known for its thriving nightlife and vibrant art scene.

San Andres is a Caribbean paradis, a dream come true for beach lovers.

No matter what city you choose to visit, there are plenty of reasons to explore Colombia! No matter what kind of experience you are looking for, Colombia’s varied cities have something to offer everyone. Whether it be exploring the colonial streets of Cartagena or dancing the night away in Medellin, Americans can discover a whole new world when they choose to visit Colombia.

What to bring to Colombia for you travel?

When visiting Colombia, there are certain items you should make sure to pack in order to ensure a safe and comfortable trip.

• A valid passport: Make sure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay and that it has at least 6 months left before expiry.
• An international driver’s licence: If you plan on driving while in Colombia, make sure to bring your international driver’s licence. Rent a car
• Travel insurance: Make sure you have valid travel insurance that will cover any medical expenses and emergency evacuations. Request a quote . Genki offers digital nomads and frequent flyers insurance .
• Sturdy shoes: Comfortable but sturdy shoes are essential for exploring the many trails, mountains and cities throughout the country.
• Personal items: Pack enough clothes and toiletries to last your entire trip.
• Cash: Make sure you bring enough cash in Colombian pesos, you can always find currency exchance in the ariport or get cash in the ATMs. Check curency exchange Medellin , Bogota , Cartagena , Barranquilla and Santa Marta
• Beach clothes and items If you’re planning on spending time at the beach, make sure to bring a lightweight beach towel , swimming suit , sandals , hat , and sun protection .
• Jacket or sweater: Bogota can be quite chilly and cold, so don’t forget to pack a jacket or sweater.
• Repelent : If you plan on spending time outdoors, it’s important to protect yourself from mosquitos and other insects.

By following these tips, Americans can ensure they have an enjoyable and safe trip when travelling in Colombia.

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What food should an American try when travelling in Colombia?

Colombian cuisine is full of flavour and variety. Here are some dishes you should make sure to try while travelling in Colombia:

• Mojarra frita: This popular dish consists of fried fish, usually served with a side of coconut rice and plantains.
• Bandeja paisa: This traditional dish consists of rice, beans, fried plantain, chorizo, pork belly, and an egg. Bandeja paisa is said to be the national dish of Colombia!
• Arepas: These corn cakes can be filled with a variety of ingredients, from cheese to eggs to chorizo. They are often served for breakfast or as a snack.
• Ajiaco: This traditional soup is made with potatoes, chicken, and cream and is typically served with rice.
• Sancocho: This hearty soup is made with different kinds of meat, potatoes, and vegetables.
• Posta negra: This dish is made with beef tenderloin marinated in garlic, cumin, pepper and other spices. It’s typically served with rice and plantain.
• Buñuelos: These deep fried dough balls are often served with cheese or honey.

These are just a few of Colombia’s delicious dishes. No matter what kind of food you like, there is sure to be something for everyone in Colombia!

Check out the list of restaurants in each city of Colombia

• Restaurants Barranquilla
• Restaurants Bogota
• Restaurants Cartagena
• Restaurants Medellin
• Restaurants Santa Marta
• Restaurants San Andres

In which hotels should a US citizen stay?

Colombia has a wide variety of accommodation options to suit any budget. For those looking for luxury, there are many five-star hotels in major cities such as Bogota , Medellin , Barranquilla , Cartagena , San Andres , Santa Marta . Mid-range hotels are also available throughout the country, while budget travellers can find plenty of hotels, guest houses, and Airbnb rentals.

Book your hotel

Book your hotel in Barranquilla , Bogota , Medellin , Cartagena , San Andres and Santa Marta .

How can Americans stay safe while travelling in Colombia?

Stay safe while exploring Colombia by staying alert and trusting your intuition. Avoid walking alone after dark to decrease the chances of being targeted by criminals. It’s also wise to limit the amount of cash and valuable possessions you carry. Stick to well-traveled tourist routes and steer clear of rural areas for added security. By heeding these safety precautions, visitors can ensure a secure and delightful trip in Colombia.

Read what should tourist avoid when coming to Colombia

Can a american / US citizen apply for tax return in Colombia?

Attention Non-Resident Visitors: Get a Refund on IVA Tax in Colombia!

If you’re a tourist or foreign visitor exploring Colombia, here’s some great news for you. You can now request a refund on the IVA tax, which is imposed on the products, services, or goods we consume. This tax stands at 19% in Colombia.

To make the most of your visit and save some money, simply reach out to the DIAN (Directorate of National Taxes and Customs) to claim your refund. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to lighten your financial load while enjoying the beauty of Colombia. Hurry and get your money back!

Read the requirements and the steps to request an IVA refund in 2023 .

Colombia: Experience a Country Bursting with Culture and Beauty. Discover the Enchanting Festivals That Define Colombia.

Colombia is a treasure trove of captivating culture and awe-inspiring natural wonders. Indulge in the vibrant festivities that will immerse you in the heart of this enchanting country. Embark on a journey through some of Colombia’s most significant celebrations and experience the true essence of its rich heritage.

• Semana Santa (Holy Week): This week-long celebration takes place in March or April and celebrates Jesus Christ’s resurrection. Semana Santa is one of the biggest religious festivals in Colombia and features processions, parades, dancing, and street parties.
• Carnaval de Barranquilla : This colourful four-day celebration takes place each year in February or March in the city of Barranquilla. The carnival features performances, costumes, music, and plenty of partying.
• Feria de las flores in Medellin : This festival takes place each year in August in the city of Medellín. It celebrates Colombian culture and features colourful processions, traditional music, delicious food, and plenty of festivities.
• Feria de Cali: This festival takes place each year in December in the city of Cali. It is one of Colombia’s largest parties and features performances, parades, and plenty of food, music, dancing, and fun.
• Fiestas del Mar in Santa Marta: This three-day celebration takes place each year in July. The festival pays homage to the Caribbean Sea with performances, fireworks, and plenty of nightlife.

These are just a few of Colombia’s wonderful festivals. No matter what time of year you visit, there is sure to be something special going on!

Ensure a safe and healthy trip to Colombia by taking necessary precautions. Prior to your journey, it is highly recommended to consult with your doctor at least six weeks in advance. They can provide you with essential vaccinations and valuable advice to stay healthy while abroad. Remember, tap water in many areas of Colombia is unsafe to drink, so opt for bottled water instead.

Colombia is renowned for its exceptional medical tourism services. With a wide range of treatments available, such as plastic surgery and dental work, you can save up to 70% compared to other countries. For more information on medical and dental tourism in Colombia, visit Medicosdoc.com

Looking for travel medical insurance?

Genki offers travel medical insurance for digital nomads, frequent travelers, expats, and long-term travelers.

Monthly subscriptions.

Discover the allure of Colombia – an emerging hotspot for digital nomads! Immerse yourself in its vibrant culture, tantalize your taste buds with its delectable cuisine, and bask in the breathtaking wonders of its nature. Not to mention, Colombia boasts a remarkably affordable cost of living, making it a remarkable choice for budget-savvy individuals. Check out digital nomad guide in Colombia

Which are the popular cities in Colombia for digital nomads?

The most popular cities for digital nomads in Colombia are Bogota, Medellin, Cali, and Cartagena . Each city offers something unique in terms of culture, food, and entertainment. Bogota is the capital of Colombia and offers a bustling nightlife scene as well as plenty of coworking spaces. Medellin is known for its stunning scenery and vibrant nightlife. Cali is the heart of salsa music and dance, while Cartagena offers a mix of colonial architecture, Caribbean vibes, and delicious seafood. Santa Marta is a great option for travellers who want to explore the nearby beaches and nature. Each city has its own unique charm that digital nomads are sure to love! No matter which city you choose, there are plenty of options for digital nomads in Colombia!

Coworking in Colombia

• Coworking in Barranquilla
• Coworking in Bogota
• Coworking in Medellin
• Coworking in Santa Marta
• Coworking in Cartagena

Can a US citizen work in Colombia without a working visa?

A US citizen wishing to work in Colombia will need to apply for a work visa . If you are a digital nomad you can apply to a digital nomad visa .

What happens if a US citizen overstays more than 90 days in Colombia?

If an US citizen overstays their visa free period in Colombia, they may be subject to fines and deportation. It is important to ensure that your visa free period in Colombia does not expire.

That concludes our overview of Colombia! Whether you are travelling to Colombia for business or pleasure, make sure to do your research before embarking on your journey. With a bit of planning and preparation, you can have an amazing experience in this vibrant country. Bon voyage.

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Do I need a visa to travel to Colombia?

Sep 23, 2023 • 5 min read

Find out if you need a visa to visit Colombia and how to get one if you do © F.J. Jimenez / Getty Images

Famed for its warm and welcoming atmosphere and its plethora of jaw-dropping national parks, sun-soaked beaches and dynamic cities, Colombia is fast becoming one of South America’s most popular travel destinations, drawing footloose backpackers and family vacationers in droves.

Adding to the appeal, visa requirements for Colombia are fairly straightforward, with visa-free travel available for a large number of countries, plus a simple online visa application process for those who need one.

As anywhere, requirements can change without warning, so it’s always important to double-check the latest guidance from your local Colombian embassy , but here are the most important things you need to know about visas for Colombia.

What are the entry requirements for Colombia?

Travelers from 102 countries and territories, including the USA, Canada, the UK, New Zealand and Australia, and most countries in the EU and EEA, can enter Colombia visa-free as tourists. Upon arrival, visitors from countries on the approved list receive a passport stamp granting a stay of up to 90 days.

There are a few conditions. You'll need a minimum of six months left on your passport before it expires and you may be asked to show proof of an onward ticket for travel out of Colombia at the end of your stay. Officials may also request evidence of a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you’re entering from another South American country.

You must complete the Check-Mig immigration form on the Migración Colombia website; this process was introduced during the pandemic and remains as a requirement to enter the country. It's available in English, Spanish and French, and the form must be filled out between 72 hours and one hour before departure for Colombia.

When leaving Colombia, there's a chance you may be charged an exit tax of US$35 at the airport. This tax is normally included in the cost of flight tickets, but you should confirm this when checking in for your inbound flight. 

Which countries need a visa for Colombia?

Citizens of most nations in Africa, Asia and the Middle East (plus some other countries) are not eligible for visa-free access and must apply in advance for a visitor visa to enter the country. There's a full list of countries and territories whose citizens require a visa on Colombia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. 

Applications for tourist visas should be filed online and the cost varies depending upon your nationality and the country where you are located when applying. Expect to pay around US$82 for the visa, which is usually valid for a stay of up to 180 days. Make sure you have all of your documents ready before you begin the application process online – the website times out after 30 minutes, deleting any progress you’ve made up until that point. 

Citizens of Cambodia, China, India, Macau, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam can enter Colombia visa-free for up to 90 days if they have an existing short-stay visa or residency permit issued by the USA or any Schengen Area country. This document must be valid for at least 180 days beyond the date of your arrival in Colombia.

Can I extend my Colombian tourist visa?

If you’re a citizen of a country that has visa-free access to Colombia, you can extend your stay by an additional 90 days by applying for an extension online (in Spanish) or at the offices of Migracíon Colombia (including in  Bogotá , Medellín , Cali and Cartagena ). If you have a 180-day visa, this cannot be extended, as this is already the maximum stay allowed.

The process of extending your entry stamp must be completed at least two weeks before your existing stamp expires in case of any processing delays. You will need to provide photocopies of the information page of your passport and your Colombian entry stamp, and proof of a booking for onward travel within the next 90 days to support your application.

Extending your tourist stamp allows you to spend a maximum of 180 days in total in Colombia in any 12-month period. Extending costs US$27 for most nationalities, but it’s free for citizens from a Schengen Area country. 

Visa requirements for working in Colombia

A temporary worker’s visa, known as a migrant (M) visa or M-5 is available for travelers who can prove they have a job lined up with a Colombian employer. This class of visa has a duration of up to three years, and your Colombian employer will need to provide several financial documents to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to support the process, including bank statements and proof of tax payments.

You can apply for this class of visa from abroad or while you are in the country on a tourist visit, making it easier to attend interviews with a local employer. While you can leave and enter the country on a working visa, it will expire if you leave Colombia for longer than six consecutive months.

It's not a cheap process, however. Expect to pay US$52 for the application process, and a further US$230 once it has been approved. You can apply online , although you may be required to show documents in person at your local consulate or embassy – there's a full list on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website .

If your application is successful, you’ll receive an electronic visa via email, which can be shown to border officials upon arrival and exit from Colombia. There is no legal requirement to have the visa printed in your passport unless you’re staying in Colombia for more than three months; however, it’s highly recommended that you get a copy printed at your local consulate as there’s always the possibility that passport officials may demand to see a physical copy.

This article was first published Mar 24, 2022 and updated Sep 23, 2023.

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What Are the Colombian Visa Requirements for US Citizens? – 2024 Update

According to data from Migración Colombia, more than 1’100.000 US visitors entered Colombian territory during 2023, which accounts for over 25% of all foreign visits to Colombia as of last year. 

Outside of the relatively short travel distance between the US and Colombia, as well as the tropical weather, there are many reasons why Americans choose to flock to the country of Vallenato and Empanadas.

Whether it’s about finding new job opportunities, property to invest in, a place to retire, or simply a new culture, Colombia has tempted millions of its northern neighbors to come to explore its breathtaking hills and beautiful rainforests. 

So, when it comes to having your visa information in order, there are plenty of questions. Do US citizens need a visa for Colombia? Are there specific US visa requirements in Colombia that differ from those in other countries? 

To keep you abreast of all the latest Colombia—US visa information , we’ve created a comprehensive article on the visa requirements for US citizens traveling to and staying in Colombia permanently.

Do US citizens need a visa to travel to Colombia?

US citizens with valid US passports don’t need a visa prior to traveling to Colombia. As a tourist, you can spend 180 days in Colombian territory per calendar year.

When you arrive on Colombian soil, immigration will give you a tourist stamp lasting 90 days. This tourist stamp can be extended for another 90 days if you don’t wish to exit Colombian territory. If you already have a valid Colombian visa that hasn’t expired, immigration will allow you to enter Colombia on that particular visa.

Before traveling to Colombia, US citizens must have proof of forwarding passage to their next destination, be it a return journey to the US or to a different country in Latin America. Failure to prove your travel plans after visiting Colombia could mean that you’re denied entry to the country.  Valid documentation that proves forward passage would include flight, boat, or bus tickets leaving Colombia. Be aware that flight reservations—as opposed to booked seats—are not accepted as valid proof of forward passage. 

If you’re worried about any of your documentation before you arrive in Colombia, make sure to consult an experienced  migratory services company prior to traveling.

What to do if you want to remain longer in Colombia, passed your 180 days as a tourist?

Many US visitors decide to extend their stay in Colombia passed their 180 days as a tourist.  Fortunately, the current resolution regulating visas in Colombia brought several changes. The most relevant, perhaps, is the introduction of a new Visa type V: the Digital Nomad visa.  

Not only US Citizens, but other nationalities that don’t require a tourist visa to enter Colombian territory, can also apply to this visa category. 

After the COVID-19 Pandemic, remote working has maintained its hype. Many countries welcoming digital nomads from around the world to their cities, embracing this way of living. Colombia, naturally, considered a paradisiac destination by many, hasn’t been the exception. 

Therefore, if you are a remote worker, or owner of an organization overseas, you might be eligible to apply for this visa, which you can do so from Colombia directly and can be granted up to 2 years, allowing you to remain for that time without leaving the territory and getting the benefits of being a holder of a Colombian Cédula de Extranjería (Foreigner’s ID). 

Other popular Visa types and categories among US citizens are the Visa type V Student, Visa type M Retirement and the Visa type M Business. We will be providing more information about this visa types below: 

Download the official guide on the Colomabian tax regime

Can us citizens study in colombia.

After enjoying a well deserved rest from their vacations, many Americans decide to embark in the journey of learning Spanish. Maybe their middle school and high school Spanish classes were a good start. Nonetheless, when they come to Colombia they find themselves surrounded by a culture that is constantly feed by an always changing language full of colloquialisms and mannerisms that lack meaning when the context is not fully understood by non-Spanish speakers. 

After becoming enamoured by Colombian culture and having a true desire to understanding it fully, US citizens can apply for a Visa type V Student , by enrolling in a Spanish course approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 

Can US citizens retire in Colombia?

Yes, US citizens and pensioners from other nationalities can retire in Colombia by applying for the retirement visa. This visa allows the holder to accumulate time to later on apply for the Visa type R: Resident. 

One of the requirements to apply for this visa category, is to receive a for-life-pension of more than 975 USD per month, that can come either from private funds or from the US Government (for US citizens). 

Under the current legislation, there is only one category of the retirement visa and, since October of 2024, the Colombian Government requires among other things a travel health insurance that covers the holder of the visa in case of accidents within Colombian territory and repatriation services. 

It is important to note, that visa holders will be required to get the Cédula de Extranjería, but won’t be able to access the Colombian EPS system, a change from the previous legislation.  For more information on the requirements to apply for this visa, make sure to check out our article detailing the full process for how to acquire the retirement visa in Colombia

The visa application can be done online, from Colombian Territory. However, the consulate may require an online, in-person, or telephone interview.

Unfortunately, the Colombian retirement visa for US citizens does not preclude them from filing out tax returns to the IRS and should be handled with extreme care. Whether you will receive double taxation or not is something that you should consult organizations like American Overseas for more details.

What about Health Insurance for all these types of visas?

Colombia’s updated regulations in 2022 ask that medical insurance be obligatory for individuals with  Visitor (V Type) , including Digital Nomad Visa, and some  Migrant (M Type)  that provides extensive coverage for a wide range of potential risks, including accidents, illness, maternity, disability, hospitalization, death, or repatriation.

From this perspective, and resonating with the advice of our partner, Medellin Guru,  Assist Card stands out as the best option . It provides coverage plans that fulfil all the stipulations demanded by  Resolution 5477. 

The best part is the convenience of purchasing your insurance online. We suggest acquiring your insurance through  Assist Card , choosing your travel dates, paying virtually, and instantly receiving your insurance voucher to apply for your visa.

What do US citizens need to apply for a Colombian Business visa?

Many US citizens decide to invest in Colombia after their stay in the country. Under the current legislation, a foreigner can apply to the Visa type M Business if they invest more than 32,500 USD in a Colombian organization, which has to be legally registered at the Chamber of Commerce.  One of the benefits of this type  of visa is that it also enables the holder to accumulate time for the Visa type R Resident . 

For starters, an American can either start a business of their choosing in the country, or investing in an already created organization and becoming a partner.  For more information about how to start a business in Colombia, we invite you to take a look at our blog about this topic. 

Summing Up 

The process of acquiring a Colombian visa for US citizens isn’t particularly different to foreign nationals applying from other countries. 

Remember though, if you’re ever in doubt about aspects of your visa application, it’s always best to consult specialized Colombian migration agencies. Companies like these who’ve processed hundreds of visa applications for Americans are well-equipped to guide you through any doubts or queries you may have regarding visas in Colombia. 

Let your processes in expert hands

With more than ten years of experience and close to 3000 visas approved at  expatgroup.co , we make sure to carry out processes with professionalism, quality, and attention to detail to achieve successful results. Consult with our experts , and we will guide you through the process of collecting documents; we make the visa application, we are attentive to any requirement by the government, and we help you apply for your foreigner identification card (cédula de extranjería).

With more than 10 (ten) years of experience and more than 2,800 visas processed in expatgroup.co , we ensure that your process is carried out professionally and with great attention to detail under the highest quality standards and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs requirements, thus increasing the chances of success in your application process.

We encourage you to consult with our experts . We have experience in digital nomad visas with successful processes, where expats recommend us. We invite you to watch Josep Manier’s testimony and his experience with our service.

Why should I use expatgroup.co services?

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Visa Services expatgroup.co

• Includes migratory advisory
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• Registering visa / requesting “Cédula de Extranjería”

Check out what you need to know about the Colombian tax regime

At expatgroup.co we understand how important it is to have reliable information . Therefore, we invite you to fill out our form to receive the free official guide to your email.

14 comentarios en “ What Are the Colombian Visa Requirements for US Citizens? – 2024 Update ”

Hello Sir/madam, how are you? My name is Chand Sukhi. I’ll like to live in Colombia as a pensioner from the United States. My monthly social security check is about $1,000. Please let me know what visa I’m qualified for to live here in Colombia. Kind regards, Chand.

Hi Chand! Thank you for contacting us. Of course! You can easily obtain a retirement visa with our help. You can find out the requirements and costs of the process here: https://expatgroup.co/english/quote-now/ . Please contact one of our specialists to help you: +18507714928.

I would like to get a quote from you to assist me obtaining a migrant visa (for real estate purchases inside Colombia).

Can you please write or call me in English?

This is a serious inquiry that I will act upon right away.

Hi, Douglas, I hope you are doing great! I see that Johana is already giving you advice, thank you very much for contacting us, and we hope to provide you with all the advice so that you can process your Colombian Visa with us. We also hope to assist you throughout the process of real estate. Greetings!

Hello Expatgroup, My question is what visa should I apply for? My ultimate goal is to buy property in Colombia to be used as a rental property (airbnb). Me Immediate goal is to get a Visa so I can, get my cedula extranjeria, which is needed to open a bank account. The properties I am looking at, all cost more and would qualify for the investment visa approximately ($170,000 usd) but I think the rentista visa would be the easier for me to qualify for looking at the requirements.

Hi Travis, thanks so much for reaching out to us. We would love to explain better how the process of creating a company or buying real estate, this is more specialized advice, so we invite you to book an appointment with us to guide you in what would be best for you. https://expatgroup.co/english/book-an-appointment/

my daughter will be a high school exchange student in colombia beginning in the fall. we’re applying for a student (V) visa – which seems straight forward. we have a tourist trip planned for july so that we can see the country before she goes for her year of studying there since none of us have visited before. will visiting in july impact/delay her visa process?

Hello Beverly, I hope you are doing well. If you are a U.S. citizen there is no problem entering the country, since with a U.S. passport you are allowed 180 days per year as a tourist.

Remember that if it is a high school exchange the government can request the M student visa and not the V, but to give you better assistance, contact us at +1 (954) 799-3692

Buenos días. Tengo la green card de USA, necesito solicitar visa antes de viajar a Colombia? Gracias !

Buenos días, Nuria, muchas gracias por escribirnos, si tienes pasaporte americano no es necesario tramitar una visa, pues como turista tienen 180 días por año para estar en Colombia, sin embargo, si no posees el pasaporte americano te dejo el siguiente link para que consultes si por tu nacionalidad necesitas tramitar un visado https://www.cancilleria.gov.co/sites/default/files/Fotos2017/nacionalidades_a_las_cuales_colombia_exige_visa_-_noviembre.pdf

Estamos atentos para asesorarte en caso de que necesites tramitar la visa colombiana +19547993692

Hello, My son plays soccer here in Texas. We are wondering how he could tryout to play for the Colombian under 20 team? He has Colombian parents. What does he need to do?

Good afternoon, Ms Patricia. Thank you for commenting in our blog, we appreciate you being part of our community. Answering your question, with this matter, you will have to contact the colombian chancellery and ask about the process to naturalize your son in Colombia. You will also have to contact the Colombian Soccer Association to see if they help you with this process.

We hope you have a great day!

We have a client/customer in Colombia who has hired our company to send one of our Professional Engineer’s to perform specialized work at their jobsite. We will send one of our employees to Colombia to execute the work, approximately 1-2 weeks he will be in the country. What Visa does he need for this short stay/temporary work and where can he find the application for it?

Good afternoon Brenda. There is a temporary work visa for Colombia. For us to review the case and to start the application process, please contact us through WhatsApp: https://wa.me/19547993692?text=transfer%20

Have a great day!

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Colombian Visa for Us Citizens

Learn everything you need to know about Colombian Visas for US Citizens, how to get one, and if you even need one.

As a US citizen, you might be wondering about the necessary steps to visit the beautiful country of Colombia. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you navigate the various visa requirements, application processes, and essential tips for a smooth journey to Colombia, focusing on Colombia visas for US citizens.

Key Takeaways

• US citizens can visit Colombia for up to 180 days per year without applying for a visa (tourist stamp extension may be required).
• US Citizens must meet various requirements when traveling to Colombia, including valid passports and entry through authorized border crossings. All travelers will need to complete a Check-mig form, proof of exit.
• Long-term visas such as the Digital Nomad Visa, Investment Visa and Retirement Visa are available for US citizens in Colombia who want to stay longer than 180 days.

Colombia Visa Requirements for US Citizens

Familiarizing yourself with Colombian visa requirements is necessary to ensure a hassle-free trip. While no visa is necessary for short-term visits related to tourism and business up to 180 days per year, staying longer requires a visa. It is vital to know the specifics of each visa type, including their requirements and the processes for obtaining them.

Traveling to Colombia by road requires entry through an authorized border crossing, as per the Colombian immigration authority. In addition, you must always carry your valid US passport when entering and departing Colombia.

Tourist and Business Travel

US citizens traveling to Colombia for tourism or business purposes don’t need to obtain a visa. All you need is a valid passport and proof of onward travel to enter the country. This makes it considerably easier for US citizens to explore Colombia’s diverse attractions and engage in business activities without needing a visitor visa.

However, if you plan to stay longer than 90 days for tourism or business, you may need to apply for a visa extension. Be sure to prepare the necessary documentation, such as:

• A valid passport
• A local address
• Proof of a return ticket
• Evidence of the capacity to cover living expenses.

Visa Extensions

Sometimes, the allure of Colombia may entice you to extend your stay. so upon your arrival you receive a 90 days Tourist stamp and you can request a Tourist stamp extension if you wish to remain in the country for over those initial 90 days. You can apply online for an extension of an extra 90 days for a total of 180 days in a calendar year on the official website of Colombia Migraciones.

You will want to apply for your passport stamp extension 7-10 days before your stamp expires. The requirements include:

• Exit Ticket

By meeting these requirements, you can continue enjoying Colombia's beauty without any hiccups.

Updated COVID-19 Requirements

US citizens traveling to Colombia our tourist in general does not need to show proof of testing and vaccination for COVID 19.

In accordance with the above, at the Immigration Control Posts it will not be required for entry and exit from Colombian territory; the vaccination certificate and the negative PCR or antigen test for COVID 19, as a requirement.

It should be noted that the requirement to complete the Check-Mig established by the UAE Migration Colombia for entry and exit from the country IS maintained, since its objective is to expedite the immigration procedure.

Completing the Check Mig pre-registration system is a must before starting your Colombian adventure. Check Mig is a mandatory system for travelers entering Colombia, requiring US citizens to provide pertinent travel and personal information.

It is recommended that US citizens apply for Check-Mig prior to arriving at the airport for their flight to Colombia. Typically, the airline will ask for you to present proof that you completed the Check-Mig form. The Check-Mig form details the traveler’s journey, including dates and flight numbers.

You can fill out the Check-Mig form here.

Colombian Visa Requirements With US Green Card

For US green card holders, whether you need a visa to enter Colombia depends on where your passport is from.

Individuals who possess a valid US visa or Schengen visa and have a passport from one of the following countries do NOT need a visa to enter Colombia:

• República Popular China

However, when traveling to Colombia, it’s necessary to bring your valid US visa or Schengen visa along with your green card.

If you do not hold a passport from one of the countries listed above, you will need to apply for a visitor visa to enter Colombia.

Long-Term Visas for US Citizens

If your plans for Colombia extend beyond a short visit, several long-term visa options are available for US citizens. These include:

• Digital nomad visa
• Investment visa
• Retirement visa
• Marriage Visa
• Parent of a Colombian Visa
• Student Visa

Each visa, including the migrant visa and visitor visa types, has specific requirements and application processes for visa applicants.

You can refer to this blog to dive into greater detail about the specifics of each visa.

Online Visa Application Process

Applying for a Colombian visa has never been easier, thanks to the online visa application process. US citizens have the opportunity to apply for a Colombian visa online through the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

The online visa application process is relatively straightforward and can be accomplished solely online. To apply for a visa, you must:

• Complete the online application form.
• Submit the necessary documents, such as a valid passport and a passport-sized photograph.
• Provide any other documents mandated by the Colombian Consulate.

This convenient method ensures a smooth application process from the comfort of your own home.

Visa Processing Time and Fees

Generally, applying for a visa in Colombia takes no more than 30 days . This includes any additional paperwork to be submitted. It is important to note that the government entity requires that they have at least 30 days to respond to your visa application, so you should plan your trip accordingly.

Fees for Colombian visas differ based on the visa category. Make sure to check the fees associated with your desired visa type, as well as the acceptable payment methods, such as credit card or Colombian bank card through the PSE payment system.

Dual Citizenship and Travel Documents

For dual US-Colombian citizens , understanding the travel document requirements for both countries is important. Dual citizenship is acknowledged in Colombia, and there is no stipulation to relinquish one’s previous nationality in order to become a Colombian citizen.

When traveling between the United States and Colombia, dual citizens are obliged to carry both their US and Colombian passports. This ensures that you adhere to each country’s entry and exit requirements and avoid any complications during your journey.

Transit Visas and Airport Procedures

For US citizens transiting through Colombian airports, a transit visa is not required. This makes it convenient for travelers who have a layover in Colombia while on route to another destination.

Nevertheless, carrying a valid passport with at least six months remaining from the date of travel is still necessary. By having the necessary documents in order, you can ensure a smooth transit experience through Colombian airports.

Tips for a Smooth Visa Application

Following some key tips is important for a successful visa application process . First, apply well in advance of your planned trip to account for any potential delays. This will allow ample time for visa processing and any necessary follow-up.

Additionally, ensure that all required documents are accurate and up-to-date for your Colombia visa application. Submit all documents in PDF format and verify that the information provided in the application form is consistent with your official documents. If you have any doubts or need further guidance, consult official sources such as specialized agencies or your nearest Colombian embassy for the most up-to-date and reliable information regarding visa applications.

In conclusion, understanding Colombia’s visa requirements and application processes is crucial for a seamless and enjoyable trip. Whether you’re a tourist, an investor, a digital nomad, or a retiree, Colombia offers a diverse range of opportunities and experiences. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide and adhering to the necessary regulations, you’ll be well-prepared for your Colombian adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a us citizen live in colombia.

Yes, US citizens can live in Colombia as they are able to obtain a Migrant Visa (M) to extend their stay beyond the 180 days allowed by visa-free entry and can become a full-time resident.

With the Migrant Visa, US citizens can stay in Colombia for 1-3 years.

Is Colombia visa easy to get?

Getting a Colombia visa is relatively straightforward, though the online form and requirments can be challenging for some. Citizens of around 100 countries can simply apply for an eVisa.

Those from other countries will need to apply for a tourist visa, which also involves a fairly straightforward process.

Does Colombia offer visa on arrival?

Yes, Colombia offers visa on arrival for visitors from 102 countries who can stay up to 180 days.

U.S. citizens do not need a Colombian visa for a tourist or business stay of 90 days or less, and can extend up to 180 days per calendar year.

Daniela Cordoba is a lawyer specializing in immigration and commercial law. Daniela Cordoba has helped individuals and businesses live and operate in Colombia for over a decade. She also has training in compliance with the respective accreditations to serve as Compliance Officer.

For the past decade we have been helping travelers secure visas to Colombia.

We work with you 1:1 to ensure you not only have the best chance of getting approval, but that you have every one of your questions answers.

You don't have to worry about having to translate emails or communication, our team is fluent in English and can help you with whatever you need.

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Visa Tips and Requirements for US Citizens Traveling to Colombia

Do i need a visa to enter colombia as a u.s. citizen, what type of visa is required for my purpose of travel to colombia, how do i apply for a visa to colombia, and what are the application requirements, what is the processing time for obtaining a visa for colombia, is there a visa-on-arrival option for u.s. citizens in colombia, what is the duration of stay allowed with the visa for colombia, are there any specific entry restrictions or conditions i should be aware of for colombia, can i extend my stay or renew my visa while in colombia, is there a multiple-entry visa option available for frequent travelers to colombia, what are the fees associated with obtaining a visa for colombia, are there any specific health or vaccination requirements for obtaining a visa for colombia, can i apply for a visa online, or is an in-person visit to the consulate or embassy required for colombia, is there a specific validity period for the passport required to obtain a visa for colombia, what documents do i need to submit as part of the visa application process for colombia, are there any special considerations or procedures for business or work visas for colombia, how can i track the status of my visa application for colombia, what should i do if my visa application for colombia is denied, are there any additional requirements for travelers with dual citizenship when applying for a visa for colombia, can i apply for a visa upon arrival at the airport in colombia, or is advance application mandatory, is there a specific time frame within which i should apply for a visa before my planned travel dates to colombia.

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Colombia Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Colombia. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Dengue in the Americas April 18, 2024 Dengue is a risk in many parts of Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to the Americas can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. Destination List: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, including the Galápagos Islands, French Guiana (France), Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Martinique (France), Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Turks and Caicos Islands (U.K.), Uruguay

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Colombia.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Colombia. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Colombia.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Colombia take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Colombia.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Colombia. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Colombia, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Colombia. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from Angola, Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in any of these countries.

Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old except as follows. Generally not recommended for travel limited to the cities of Barranquilla, Cali, Cartagena, or Medellín. Not recommended for travel limited to areas >2,300 m (≈7,550 ft) elevation, the archipelago department of San Andrés and Providencia, or the city of Bogotá (the capital).

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites, chagas disease (american trypanosomiasis).

• Accidentally rub feces (poop) of the triatomine bug into the bug bite, other breaks in the skin, your eyes, or mouth
• From pregnant woman to her baby, contaminated blood products (transfusions), or contaminated food or drink.
• Avoid Bug Bites

Chagas disease

• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Colombia, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Colombia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Colombia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Colombia. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Colombia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Colombia. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Colombia may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Colombia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Colombia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Global Entry for Colombian Citizens

How to apply for global entry:.

Citizens of Colombia are eligible for Global Entry. Applications must be submitted through CBP’s Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website . The non-refundable application fee for a five-year Global Entry membership is $100 and applications must be made online. Once the application is approved, a CBP officer will conduct a scheduled interview with the applicant and then make a final eligibility determination.

Application Process:

• Apply Online with CBP: Complete a TTP  online application and pay the $100 non-refundable application fee.
• Schedule an Interview: Once your application is reviewed, you will receive a message in your TTP account instructing you to schedule an interview at one of the Global Entry Enrollment Centers . If you are unable to schedule an in-person interview, you may opt to use the Enrollment On Arrival (EoA) option that is immediately available while entering the U.S. from an international country.  No appointment is required for the EoA process. Additional information regarding EoA is available on the Enrollment on Arrival website . 
• Interview Determines Your Eligibility: A U.S. Customs Border Protection officer will ask you questions, take your photo, and collect your fingerprints.
• Provide Identification: Bring your valid passport(s) and one other form of identification, such as a driver's license or ID card to the interview. If you are a lawful permanent resident, you must present your permanent resident card.

Other Benefits:

Once a citizen of Colombia is enrolled in Global Entry, he/she will also be eligible to participate in TSA Precheck. Visit the TSA Precheck program website for more information.

Travel Requirements:

All Colombian Global Entry members must have a valid passport and a valid visa.  Global Entry members who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. lawful permanent residents must maintain updated visa information with CBP.  If a Global Entry member obtains a new visa, or obtains a new petition for a work visa, the member must notify CBP in-person at a Global Entry enrollment center.  A member must visit an enrollment center to have CBP add visa and/or update visa information. If the visa information is incomplete or not properly updated with CBP, the Global Entry kiosk may incorrectly calculate the member’s class of admission and admission date. A member must visit an enrollment center in-person to add or update visa information.

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Colombia Visa: Entry requirements and pre-travel information for Colombia

Welcome to colombia.

• Colombia Check-MIG Form

Traveling to Colombia? You may need a visa – find out if you do, which type, and how to apply so you can get the paperwork out of the way and focus on your trip.

What’s the Colombia Check-MIG Form, and who’s it for?

Who’s the Colombian Check-MIG Form for?

All travelers must have completed this form before they board their flight to Colombia. You'll also need to complete the form on departure from Colombia.

What’s the purpose of the Colombian Check-MIG Form? This Check-MIG is meant to declare your visa status and any health issues before entering the country.

How long can you stay with a Colombian Check-MIG Form?

It’s valid for a Single Entry to Colombia, so you’ll have to fill out the Check-MIG every time you want to enter or exit the country.

Learn more about the Colombia Check-MIG Form

Register your Colombia Check-MIG Form now

What’s the Colombia Visitor Visa (Type V), and who’s it for?

Who’s the Colombian Visitor Visa (Type V) for?

This visa caters to travelers from countries needing a visa for Colombia or those wishing for a longer stay.

What’s the purpose of the Colombian Visitor Visa (Type V)? Tourism, retirement ( rentista ), airport transit, working in the country as a digital nomad, tourism, business transactions, journalism, study exchange programs, traineeships, medical treatment, volunteering, working holiday, and business.

How long can you stay with a Colombian Visitor Visa (Type V)?

The validity of the Embassy Visa is typically 90 days Per Entry , but in some situations, you can get it for up to two years.

At iVisa, we currently don’t offer the Colombia Visitor Visa (Type V), but you can find out more from the Colombia Embassy or Consulate near you.

What are the Colombian long-term visa options?

Colombia offers several long-term visa options for various purposes, such as employment, study, business, and residence. Here are some common long-term visas:

Colombia Migrant Visa (Type M): If you're considering making Colombia your home for an extended period, the Colombian Migrant Visa is for you. In this category, you’ll find various options, such as the Marriage Visa, Work Visa, Student Visa, Investment Visa, Retirement Visa, and Refugee Visa.

Colombia Resident Visa (type R): A Colombian Resident Visa is designed for those who want to live and work in the country permanently.

Staying healthy in Colombia: Here’s what you need to know

Colombia's healthcare system has made significant strides over the past few decades and is often regarded as one of the better systems in South America. Here's what travelers should know.

Make sure to stay updated on routine vaccines

Consider vaccines for diseases like measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) and diphtheria-tetanus-polio.

Depending on your country of origin, travelers staying in Colombia for a month or more should note that you may need an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) as proof of polio vaccination.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers aged 1 year or older traveling from an area with a risk of yellow fever transmission, including layovers.

Keep updated with Colombia's COVID-19 requirements, such as quarantine, testing, or vaccine certificates, through your airline or the Colombian government website.

Medical facilities

Colombia's major cities like Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and Cartagena have well-equipped, modern hospitals and clinics that offer various medical services, including specialized care.

Pharmacies are widespread and can be found throughout Colombia, even in smaller towns.

Colombia is a growing destination for affordable medical tourism, especially for procedures like cosmetic surgery and dental care.

Health insurance

We’d always recommend taking out health insurance before you travel anywhere from any destination.

All the major cities in Colombia will have private medical care, but it’s expensive. You should choose travel insurance with high medical limits.

Contact your insurance provider before traveling to make sure you have the right level of coverage.

Other things to consider:

Trip cancellation, delay, and interruption benefits.

Medical expenses and medical evacuation benefits.

Baggage coverage.

Things to be aware of when visiting Colombia

Keep an extra eye on the following to keep healthy and safe during your trip to Colombia:

1. Food and water safety: It's essential to drink bottled or boiled water, avoid ice, and eat well-cooked foods. Avoiding street food or unpasteurized dairy products can also reduce risk.

2. Mosquito-borne illnesses: Dengue fever and malaria are present, especially in the Pacific Coast, Amazon, and Orinoquía regions. Travelers should consider taking prophylactic medications and always use insect repellent, bed nets, and long-sleeved clothing in areas of risk.

Medication for personal use

Follow these tips to bring over-the-counter medicines into Colombia:

Declare all medications: Report all medication for personal use to customs authorities.

Original packaging: Always keep medicines in their original containers and in transparent bags in your hand luggage.

Prescription or doctor's letter: Present the medical prescription issued by your doctor or other competent authority, in English.

Check for restrictions: Call Colombia's embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.

Quantity aligned with itinerary: Bring only a reasonable quantity that aligns with your stay duration to avoid complications.

Illegal drugs: Don’t get involved with illegal drugs of any kind. Local drug trafficking detection methods are sophisticated, and anyone buying or trafficking drugs should expect to be arrested.

Need embassy support?

For other consular needs for Colombia, your first point of contact is the Colombian Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

Need assistance while traveling in Colombia? Your home country's embassy or consulate is your go-to place for support. Check our useful Embassies Finder to locate the nearest one.

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Update April 12, 2024

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US issues level 3 travel advisory to China amid safety concerns. Here's what to know

Are you thinking about traveling to China to visit or study abroad? The U.S. government suggests reconsidering your trip for now. 

According to the U.S. Department of State , traveling to China is under a level 3 travel advisory , warning Americans to reconsider. The State Department has four warning levels. The fourth is “Do not travel.”

Is it safe to travel to China right now?

The U.S. is asking Americans to reconsider traveling to China due to various reasons, including concerns about health and safety, such as the prevalence of contagious diseases like COVID-19, as well as political tensions or security risks in certain regions.

As of April 12, there are some specific areas that the U.S. is asking people to reconsider travel to. Those areas include:

• Mainland China due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including exit bans and the risk of wrongful detentions.
• Exercise increased caution when traveling to the Hong Kong SAR due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws.
• Reconsider travel to the Macau SAR due to a limited ability to provide emergency consular services. 

Additionally, the U.S. government may issue travel advisories based on factors like civil unrest, natural disasters, or other hazards that could affect travelers' well-being.

Americans detained in China

Mark Swidan — a man from Houston, Texas — has been detained in China for over 10 years on drug charges. According to The Texas Tribune , Swidan was detained in China in 2012 while on a trip looking for materials for his home and business in Houston. Chinese authorities arrested him after his driver and translator were found in possession of drugs. The driver blamed Swidan, who is accused of trafficking and manufacturing methamphetamine.

A review of Swidan’s case said there were no drugs on him or in his hotel. Last year, the Republic of China’s Jiangmen Intermediate Court denied Swidan’s appeal and upheld his death penalty with a two-year suspended death sentence.

Other Americans considered wrongfully detained include Chinese American businessman Kai Li from Long Island, N.Y., and California pastor David Lin.

What countries have a Level 3 travel warning?

• Trinidad & Tobago
• El Salvador
• South Sudan
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Papua New Guinea
• Saudi Arabia

What countries have a Level 4 travel warning?

• Afghanistan
• Central African Republic
• North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)
• Burkina Faso

Traveling abroad? Here are some safety tips

U.S. citizens are encouraged to enroll in the State Department’s free  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  and to prepare contingency plans for emergencies. 

Safety tips if you're traveling outside the U.S.:

• Don't travel alone.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Keep a low profile.
• Try not to be flashy.
• Avoid going to places at night, especially by yourself.

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Arrests continue Saturday as pro-Palestinian protests embroil US colleges

NEW YORK − After more colleges joined in the coast-to-coast protest fray over Israel's war in Gaza this week, protesters were pressing on Saturday in the face of some university leaders cracking down on demonstrations with armed police .

While Columbia University has been the epicenter of student protests for over a week , on Saturday police arrested students and protesters at college campuses in Massachusetts, Arizona and Indiana.

Hundreds of students have set up encampments from California to Massachusetts, leading to a national debate over free speech on college campuses as some Jewish students and administrators say the demonstrations have at times been sites of antisemitism.

The protesters have called on universities to cut financial ties to Israel and Israeli companies , especially those benefiting from the ongoing war in Gaza. While the demonstrations have not led to any divestments , the week of protests have had broad impacts, forcing classes to move online and disrupting graduation plans.

On Thursday, law enforcement in riot gear broke up a peaceful demonstration at the University of Ohio. Arrests also occurred the same day at Indiana University and the University of Minnesota.

The dayslong demonstrations have centered on the war in Gaza that was triggered by Hamas' incursion into southern Israel on Oct. 7, when about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were killed and more than 240 people were taken hostage. Israel launched a massive military campaign against Hamas and the resulting bombardment and ground assault has killed more than 34,000 Palestinians, leveled large swaths of Gaza and caused a humanitarian crisis that's left the population on the brink of starvation.

Reporter's Notebook: There's been campus protests overseas. They've flown under the radar

Arrests continue into the weekend in multiple states

In the early morning hours on Arizona State University's campus, police arrested 69 people on trespassing charges after protesters refused to leave encampments, the school said.

Also on Saturday morning, police cleared out an encampment at Northeastern University in Boston. About 100 people were detained, and those with student IDs were released and will face disciplinary action, university spokesperson Renata Nyul said in an emailed statement.

Later Saturday, Northeastern's campus was back to normal, with admissions tours taking place and students posing for graduation photos, the school said in an emailed statement. At other Boston area schools, encampments continued through the day.

And at Indiana University in Bloomington, another 23 protesters were arrested Saturday by police in riot gear, the Indiana Daily Student reported . Police also dismantled tents, poured out water and took food from the encampment, according to the paper. The action came after the school announced a policy change banning temporary structures without prior approval earlier this week.

MIT president says protests must end soon

Massachusetts Institute of Technology officials had been in talks with protesters who have set up camp, but the students made clear they would not accept less than their full demands, which include cutting research funding ties with Israel's military, university President Sally Kornbluth said in a statement Saturday.

In a video statement , Kornbluth said administrators had thus far chosen not to interfere with the protests despite violation of school rules about reserving space to demonstrate. The protests at MIT have been peaceful, she said, though campus police have been present at all times.

However, Kornbluth said, "this particular form of expression needs to end soon."

Kornbluth said the encampments are a "magnet" to outside agitators, are violating campus rules and are taking away resources and staff hours from other campus functions.

"Rules have already been broken. Those who break our rules – including rules around the time, place and manner of protest – will face disciplinary action," she said.

Columbia students file civil rights complaint against university

Columbia University students and Palestine Legal filed a civil rights complaint with the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights against the university Thursday. The complaint alleges harassment, death threats, doxing, stereotyping and unequal treatment by Columbia administrators, including President Minouche Shafik.

Maryam Alwan, one of the complainants, told USA TODAY the harassment – both online and in person – has impeded her academic progress. She has to delay her graduation a year, she said.

The university did not provide comment to USA TODAY on the complaint.

“I’m unable to focus on my classes anymore,” Alwan said. “The narrative is that the protests are extremely harassing and discriminatory when in reality the only discrimination that I’ve faced has been at the protest by counter-protesters.”

Palestine Legal is also asking the DOE to investigate Columbia’s decision to allow “NYPD officers in riot gear — for the first time in decades — to arrest over a hundred students peacefully protesting Israel’s genocide last week.” The OCR does not comment on pending investigations, an Education Department spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Alwan says she hopes for “deep institutional changes,” including mandatory training about anti-Palestinian discrimination, protections for academic freedom to teach about Palestinian history and “equal treatment across the board.”

− Clare Mulroy

ACLU to US university leaders: Don't sacrifice free speech

The ACLU sent an open letter Friday evening to American public and private universities urging them to protect free speech and academic freedom. The letter came in response to anti-war protests across the U.S. that have resulted in “disturbing arrests,” according to a news release from the civil rights organization.

“As you fashion responses to the activism of your students (and faculty and staff), it is essential that you not sacrifice principles of academic freedom and free speech that are core to the educational mission of your respected institution,” said the letter, authored by ACLU Executive Director Anthony Romero and David Cole, the national legal director.

ACLU recommended guardrails to ensure this, such as not singling out particular viewpoints for censorship. Students should be protected from targeted discriminatory harassment, but institutions “may not penalize students for taking sides on the war in Gaza, even if expressed in deeply offensive terms,” the letter said.

The letter said students should have ample room to express themselves even as schools announce and enforce reasonable content-neutral protest policies and armed police on campus should be a measure of last resort. ACLU added, "Schools must resist the pressures placed on them by politicians seeking to exploit campus tensions.”

− Eduardo Cuevas

Chicago students call for disbanding of campus police

One day after students at Northwestern University set up an encampment, other Chicago-area universities joined in. At the University of Chicago where students demanded the school disband its private police force alongside demands of breaking with Israeli institutions.  

Over 200 students joined in the march at the campus on Chicago’s South Side, according to local media reports. Chief among their demands was the disbandment of the university’s police force, which is reported to be among the largest private police forces in the city.

A university spokesperson reported no arrests at the South Side protest and did not comment on the group’s demands.

In downtown Chicago, students from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Columbia College Chicago and Roosevelt University also protested, marching along Michigan Avenue before police ushered them into Millennium Park, as seen in videos shared on social media by attendees.

Students at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in the central part of the state set up an encampment on campus as well, according to videos shared on social media that showed dozens of students camped out and about a dozen tents. 

Campus police attempted to break up the encampment and arrested one person Friday, according to student media . Videos shared on social media show dozens of officers tussling with dozens of students who locked arms around the encampment. The university's police department did not immediately respond to requests for confirmation of the arrest. 

− Michael Loria

Tent protest movement grows at UNC

Students at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill organized tents, tarps and air mattresses in a central courtyard on Friday, one week after the first pro-Palestinian encampment popped up on campus. Tents stood for around four hours before being taken down at the request of university administration.

Organizers at the school, one of the most prestigious public universities in the country, say UNC’s place in the South is an important part of the national movement pushing for university divestiture from Israel.

“It feels exhilarating and inspiring,” Slyvie Tudor, a graduate student with UNC Students for Justice in Palestine, told USA TODAY. “It has to start somewhere, and I think it’s really meaningful that we’re at a public university in the South,” Tudor said, referencing how North Carolina’s Republican-controlled state legislature makes decisions impacting the university.

On Friday, professors, town residents and students gathered beneath a canopy of tall, leafy trees and amid pops of bright orange and blue camping gear as protest leaders made announcements on bullhorns.

Muslim students prayed and organizers took down tent poles at around 1:30 p.m., laying the gear flat on the ground in response to university requests to take down tent structures. As the landscape of the encampment shifted, dialogue and conversations about the war in Gaza continued uninterrupted.

− Claire Thornton

Group of onlookers at UNC say they stand against attacks on Israel

On Friday afternoon, a smaller group of demonstrators gathered in UNC’s Polk Place courtyard, saying they were there to stand against the Oct. 7 Hamas attack that killed 1,200 people in Israel, and to stand in support of Jewish students.

“We’re just here to show up,” said Rabbi Dovid Cohen, adding he doesn’t identify as a counter protester. He said he visits Chapel Hill every year during the Passover holiday.

At times, the small group, comprising around a dozen men, women and children, exchanged chants with the more than 100 pro-Palestinian student encampment protesters.

“When one group, especially a minority, feels targeted, we’re here for them, we’re their Jewish brothers,” Cohen said, pointing to one onlooker, whom he said was visibly Jewish, who was being followed around by pro-Palestinian protesters.

The onlooker encircled the pro-Palestinian tent encampment on foot for nearly 20 minutes Friday afternoon, filming while students from the encampment tried to block his phone camera. Pro-Palestinian students said they did not filming to avoid the risk of being doxxed online for their political views.

White House condemns Columbia protest leader's call for Zionists to die

The White House on Friday condemned antisemitic remarks that surfaced this week from one of the leading student organizers of the pro-Palestinian encampment at Columbia University.

"These dangerous, appalling statements turn the stomach and should serve as a wakeup call," Andrew Bates, deputy White House press secretary, said in a statement. "It is hideous to advocate for the murder of Jews."

The student, Khymani James,  says in a video taken in January , "Zionists don’t deserve to live” and “Be grateful that I’m not just going out and murdering Zionists." James refers to Zionists as "supporters of genocide."

"Zionists, they shouldn't live in this word," James says in the video, comparing Zionists to others "who don't deserve to live" such as Nazis, fascists and racists. "I feel very comfortable − very comfortable − calling for those people to die."

On Friday in a post on X, formerly Twitter, James apologized for his remarks: "What I said was wrong. Every member of our community deserves to feel safe without qualification."

Politics: White House condemns Columbia University protest leader's call for Zionists to die

− Joey Garrison

Fashion Institute of Technology protesters occupy university museum

Joining a constellation of city universities protesting the war in Gaza, students at the Fashion Institute of Technology in Manhattan set up an encampment Thursday inside the college's 'Museum at FIT' or Goldman Center. On Friday, a group of demonstrators milled around outside holding signs as some students sat inside among the scattered tents reading and talking. 

Students outside declined to speak with the press, referring instead to a press statement on the FIT Students for Justice in Palestine Instagram which lists their demands. The demands include the FIT Foundation, SUNY and Suny Research Foundation committing to financial transparency and President Joyce Brown and SUNY Chancellor John King making a public statement acknowledging genocide in Gaza. 

Until demands are met demonstrators plan to hold their ground in what signs are dubbing the "liberated zone" and "The People's Museum: FIT Gaza Solidarity Encampment." 

− Anna Kaufman 

Arizona State University encampment doused by sprinklers

Arizona State University police said three people were arrested Friday morning as dozens of Pro-Palestinian student protesters set up tents on the campus and called for an official statement from the university condemning the violence in Gaza.

Sprinklers around the protesters were turned on after the first round of arrests, leading some in the crowd to use buckets and tarps to block the flow of water. Campus police said it did not know who set off the sprinklers.

As the crowd of demonstrators swelled to around 100, the group was eventually able to build back its encampment.

The Ybarra Maldonado Law Group is seeking to represent those arrested on Friday. Attorney Ray Ybarra Maldonado told The Arizona Republic, part of the USA TODAY Network, he is concerned the protesters’ First Amendment rights and right to due process were violated when police arrested demonstrators within the first twenty minutes of the demonstration.

− Helen Rummel, Arizona Republic

Police: 36 protesters arrested Thursday night at Ohio State University

Dozens of people were arrested Thursday night at Ohio State University when police disbanded an encampment that had been set up outside the student union.

Police records show that 36 people were arrested starting at 10:16 p.m. Thursday and charged with criminal trespassing, a fourth-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail or a $250 fine, reported the Columbus Dispatch, part of the USA TODAY Network .

Among the 36 arrested, only 15 were current undergraduate or graduate students at Ohio State, according to a check done of the university's online directory. The protesters were released on their own recognizance − without having to pay any bond amount − and are scheduled to have their first appearances in Franklin County Municipal Court early next week.

Videos showed scuffles in which police in riot gear took protesters to the ground as onlookers screamed for help. Skyler Goody, 21, an OSU junior, said she and her roommate were nearly arrested as she helped form a circle around the encampments.

"People of Columbus, look at how your cops treat people," Goody said. "I don't know what the students were doing that warranted riot gear and pushing people over while they're praying."

− Shahid Meighan and Cole Behrens, Columbus Dispatch

Revolving demonstrations outside gates of Columbia University

As Columbia’s encampment quietly hummed on a sunny Friday morning, just outside campus gates, revolving protests were taking place.

First hundreds gathered in a pro-Israel demonstration, waving Israeli flags and holding images of hostages taken by Hamas and other militants in the Oct. 7 attacks, chanting “Bring them home now! Alive!” New York City police, donning helmets and batons, stood behind barricades as the rally concluded peacefully.

“There are people that support Israel, that believe Israel has the right to exist,” said retired educator Lois Stavsky, 76, a self-described “left-wing Zionist” who had returned after three months in Israel and Europe because she “didn’t like the vibes” in New York, home to the world’s largest Jewish population outside of Tel Aviv. She saw the student encampment as “mindless,” she said. “I think they’re naive. I don’t hate them. I kind of feel sorry for that mob mentality.”

Soon after, the space was occupied by a large group of Hasidic Jews, who were holding signs reading "All Palestine must be returned to Palestinian Sovereignty" and "Judaism Rejects Zionism." They could be heard chanting "one, two, three, four, Zionism no more. Five, six, seven, eight, stop the killing, stop the hate."

Charges dropped against 57 protesters arrested at University of Texas

All charges have been dropped against the 57 people arrested in connection with the Wednesday pro-Palestinian protest at the University of Texas.

The Travis County attorney's office said all 57 arrests, which were all criminal trespassing charges, lacked probable cause. County Attorney Delia Garza, whose office handles misdemeanor cases, told the American-Statesman, part of the USA TODAY Network, on Thursday that her office agreed with defense lawyers that there were "deficiencies" with the probable cause arrest affidavits.

While state police with the Texas Department of Public Safety and officers with the Austin Police Department were seen handcuffing people at Wednesday's protest, all 57 arrests were technically by the University of Texas Police Department. This means university police filled out each of the 57 probable cause affidavits.

Nouha Ezouhri, an attorney with the Travis County public defender's office, helped file jail release forms for those arrested at the protest. She told the American-Statesman on Thursday that it looked like university police "copied and pasted" each probable cause affidavit for every person arrested.

"That's not how it's supposed to be," Ezouhri said.

− Skye Seipp, Austin American-Statesman

Police stand guard at George Washington University encampment

At the entrance of a cordoned off yard at George Washington University in the nation's capital, a statue of George Washington was draped with a Palestinian flag. The statue was surrounded by dozens of tents where students had camped out overnight. Police stood guard.

For hours, protesters chanted “Up, up with liberation. Down, down with occupation” and “The people united will never be defeated.” The sidewalk was covered with messages written in chalk, including: “Fund education not decimation.”

Some protesters came from nearby universities, including American University and Georgetown University, and others from communities in the metropolitan area.

“We're here first and foremost for Palestine," said Yasin Shami, who is part of the Palestinian Youth Movement. “We will not leave until our demands are met."

Shami said he and others want the university to disclose how it is spending money and who it partners with and reverse disciplinary actions against students participating in pro-Palestine protests.

Some counter protesters yelled, “You all are terrorist supporters.”

Another person in the crowd waving an Israeli flag shouted, “Bring them home.” 

− Deborah Barry 

UT president asked for state law enforcement help with protest

University of Texas President Jay Hartzell told a state lawmaker that he and other officials sought law enforcement help from the state leading up to a large pro-Palestinian protest Wednesday that led to more than 50 arrests because “our police force couldn’t do it alone,” according to text messages obtained by the Austin American-Statesman, part of the USA TODAY Network .

In response to message from state Sen. Sarah Eckhardt, D-Austin, asking about the heavy law enforcement presence at the University of Texas at Austin, Hartzell said, “We asked for help, Senator. They indicated their desire to mimic what happened at Columbia and elsewhere, which we are doing our best to avoid for obvious reasons."

“I can’t speak to the other campuses, but this group is a chapter of a national organization that has done this elsewhere. They clearly intended to break our protest rules, despite our statements to them that we couldn’t allow them to do so. I wish we weren’t in this situation.”

The campus protest on Wednesday was planned by the Palestine Solidarity Committee, a registered student group. Republican pundits and politicians hailed the heavy law enforcement response, while multiple faculty members and students have called for Hartzell to resign. Members of the UT chapter of the American Association of University Professors also began  collecting signatures  for a letter stating faculty members have "no confidence" in Hartzell on Thursday afternoon.

− Tony Plohetski and Bayliss Wagner, Austin American-Statesman

Trump weighs in on college protests, calling them 'tremendous hate'

Donald Trump on Thursday described the ongoing protests and unrest at college campuses across the U.S. as "tremendous hate" and placed the blame at the feet of his opponent in the upcoming presidential election, Joe Biden.

"This is tremendous hate and we have a man that can’t talk about it because he doesn’t understand it," Trump said following the day’s testimony in his hush money trial in New York. "He doesn’t understand what’s going on with our country."

Trump's comment's follow statements from several Republican members of Congress who accused university administrators of allowing harassment toward Jewish students − allegations which led to the ousting of the president's of Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania.

“It's detestable. As Columbia has allowed these lawless agitators and radicals to take over, the virus of antisemitism has spread across other campus,” House Speaker Mike Johnson said Wednesday during a visit to the Columbia campus . “Anti-Israel encampments are popping up in universities all across this country. The madness has to stop.”

Columbia students frustrated with politicians' response

Jonathan Ben-Menachem, a PhD student with the Columbia University Apartheid Divest group, told reporters that the students “encourage all politicians to take the time to understand what is happening in Gaza and at universities around the country.”

“Mike Johnson parachuted in here with no regard for the actual safety of Jewish students,” Ben-Menachem said Friday.

“White supremacists have been invigorated by our encampments because they see that we are a multiracial coalition composed of primarily Black, brown and Jewish students – everything that they hate."

Students also expressed frustration when asked how they respond to accusations that they support Hamas. “Hamas backed these protests at Columbia,” Johnson tweeted Thursday.

“We find that question deeply racist,” said Sherif Ibrahim, a graduate student with CUAD. “We want to say that we are here for Palestinian liberation and to label us as Hamas supporters is deeply problematic. Students are here because they want an end to a genocide.” 

More student encampments form at New York City schools

On Friday, the antiwar encampment at the City College of New York entered its second day with about three dozen tents visible at the center of its West Harlem campus.

On a flagpole with the American flag, people added a Palestinian flag. Signs in support of the City University of New York public school system divesting from Israel were at the base of the flagpole. Inside the encampment, a few people served coffee, water and food.

On Thursday, when the encampment at CUNY first formed, campus public safety attempted to enter the space but were forced out. City College is a public school part of the CUNY system and its campus is largely open. Demonstrators at the Fashion Institute of Technology,  a public school part of the State University of New York system, also formed an encampment protesting the war at its Manhattan campus.

NYU's Manhattan Campus settled into a relative calm Friday afternoon after several days of protests. Gould Plaza, the courtyard in front of the Stern School of Business where student demonstrators clashed with police earlier in the week was completely walled off with school security guards sitting nearby.Keana Nelson, a 24-year-old graduate student studying social work, expressed disappointment over the school's response to the protests. "In the past, like, during the Vietnam war when students were protesting, law enforcement used to subdue the protests and we saw how negatively that went," she said. "So it's like now we're doing it again, we haven't even learned."

City College of New York begins negotiations with student protesters

The student encampment at the City College of New York began negotiations Friday afternoon with the public school’s administration.

Students are demanding CUNY divest from all companies profiting from weapons, surveillance and construction Israel is using against Palestinians, a boycott of all academic trips to Israel, including birthright and the Fulbright program, while affirming Palestine’s right to national liberation and right of return to Palestinians. 

They also seek the removal of the NYPD from CUNY campuses, in addition to ending collaboration with Reserve Officers' Training Corps and federal agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security. The last demand includes restoring free tuition at CUNY, which has undergraduate tuition for New York state residents at $7,000 per year.

Organizers declined to comment before negotiations. Jay Mwamba, a CUNY spokesperson, said the administration had no comment “except to reiterate that for the students, faculty and staff across our campus, our most important goal is the safety of our entire campus community.”

CUNY faculty and staff held a picket in support of the encampment. The university system’s Professional Staff Congress, the union representing faculty and staff, issued a statement against police arresting protesters.

City College is currently on spring break until classes resume on Wednesday.

“This is sort of, in no uncertain terms, a labor issue, the repression of free speech, of academic freedom,” said graduate student Zoe Hu, the chapter president for CUNY’s Graduate Center, in midtown Manhattan. “On top of that, Israel has destroyed all of the universities in Gaza. It has wiped out an entire educational system.”

Imprisoned political activist, journalist speaks to student encampment by speakerphone

Incarcerated political activist and journalist Mumia Abu-Jamal told USA TODAY he supports “anti-imperialist” student encampments spreading across the country to protest the war in Gaza. He has been in prison for over 40 years after being convicted for the 1981 murder of a Philadelphia police officer. Abu-Jamal's death sentence was overturned by a federal court. He has maintained his innocence.

Today’s activism on college campuses reminds 70-year-old Abu-Jamal, a former Black Panther, of his youth during protests against the war in Vietnam and the civil rights movement for Black Americans, he said in a brief phone call from Mahanoy state prison in Pennsylvania. He compared the protests to people once holding up lighters at concerts. Today, people tend to use cell phones.

“These are flickers of light in an anti-imperialist movement,” he said. “It’s remarkable to see.”

Abu-Jamal was set to speak Friday afternoon to the City College of New York student encampment in West Harlem, but Muslim students were in prayer on the campus lawn, so his call would be rescheduled for the evening. On Thursday, he spoke to Columbia University's student encampment via speakerphone. A microphone amplified his voice.

Negotiations at Columbia University at an impasse

Columbia University students and negotiators with the Columbia University Apartheid Divest group spoke to reporters Friday about the ongoing negotiations between the university and students in the encampment. They said they have made some progress in terms of their financial disclosure demands but not with divesting from financially and academically in Israel, the group’s main demand.

Columbia President Minouche Shafik previously warned students that if the tents aren't moved by Friday, "we will have to consider options for restoring calm to campus."

Negotiators said they spent 11 hours yesterday and an hour today at the negotiating table. Now they say they are at an impasse.

The students said it is in their best interest to reach an agreement before commencement, which is scheduled for May 15. They also said they were met with an increased “unwillingness” to understand CUAD’s core demands. 

“Columbia has asked students to operate within the confined of bureaucratic red tape with no assurances of binding divestment decisions if we end the encampment,” said student negotiator Sueda Polat. 

“The university seems to believe students cannot maintain their resolve regarding staying on this lawn, ignoring the reality that over the past 10 days, we have demonstrated how committed we are, how high our resolve is and how truly we wish from the heart for complete divestment and boycott. They believe that they can outstand us, we tell them that we cannot.”

The protests' impacts on classes, graduation

Over the past two weeks, the large demonstrations have led university administrators to adopt new policies to deal with the protests while others have been forced to restructure class schedules and graduation ceremonies.

Indiana University Bloomington this week changed its longtime policy regarding "temporary structures" saying students now needed prior approval from the university to set up tents on the campus' main lawn, according to the Indiana Daily Student . Northwestern University in Illinois abruptly banned temporary structures after hundreds of students joined in the nationwide antiwar protests on Thursday, the Chicago Tribune reported .

At Columbia, students were given a virtual class option for the rest of the semester after protests forced the university to cancel in-person classes on Monday.

On Thursday, USC announced it was canceling its main commencement ceremony for what it said were safety reasons. The decision came 10 days after administrators decided to bar valedictorian Asna Tabassum, who is Muslim, from delivering a commencement address.

Other schools must soon decide whether to hold their commencement ceremonies as the spring semester winds down and graduation ceremonies are scheduled for the weeks ahead.

Contributing: Reuters; Rachel Barber, Anna Kaufman, USA TODAY