If you are planning to drive in Colombia, you should be extremely careful. Calle 77B No. Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Colombia. If you want to drive: Drug trafficking is a serious crime in Colombia and drug smugglers face severe penalties, usually receiving long terms of imprisonment. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. Protesters or criminal groups may set up roadblocks, especially in rural areas. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture. Ambulance services are widely available in larger cities, but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Check with your air carriers or travel representative prior to departure for the United States. Photographing of military or strategic government sites is not allowed. There are no COVID-19 restrictions in place for travel to Colombia. HIV/AIDS: Travelers should bring medication sufficient for their entire stay. U.S. Mission to International Organizations in Vienna, Visit Travel.State.gov for More Information, https://www.minsalud.gov.co/Normatividad_Nuevo/Resoluci%C3%B3n%20692%20de%202022.pdf. Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis, Chagas disease (American Trypanosomiasis), information page about avoiding bug bites, Association for International Road Travel, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID), Division of Global Migration and Quarantine (DGMQ), Obtencin de atencin mdica en el extranjero, Zika: A CDC Guide for Travelers infographic, Guidelines for US Citizens and Residents Living in Areas with Zika, Cholera Information for Health Care Professionals, Introduction to Travel Health & the CDC Yellow Book, Genomic Surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 Variants. Take care of your personal belongings and avoid obvious displays of wealth. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance. The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked. It is against the law to talk on a cellular phone while driving. Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know. Entry requirements change from time to time, so check these requirements before departure with the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Colombia. Armed robberies are frequent and may occur on streets, in buses, taxis, restaurants and shopping malls. There is no requirement to present certificates of vaccination/testing for COVID-19. Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information. Check that you have adequate insurance and read the small print of the vehicle hire contract (particularly any waiver that will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged). Getting a replacement passport will be easier if you are able to provide a copy of the lost or stolen one, so keep photocopies of your passport. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. Most airport inspectors do not speak English. If you know where you want to go, you can include your destination city as well. If you're not fully vaccinated, you must present a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test result taken no more than 72 hours before your departure, or a COVID-19 (RAT) test taken no more than 48 hours before your departure. Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on allvaccinationsrecommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. U.S. citizens have been killed during robberies while using taxis. From June 4, 2021 to December 13, 2021, no testing or proof of vaccination was . The threat comes from the National Liberation Army (ELN), dissidents from the demobilised FARC guerrilla group (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia), and other illegal armed groups. This rule is strictly enforced and moving a vehicle or leaving the scene of an accident may constitute an admission of guilt under Colombian law. Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include. Country Summary: Violent crime, such as homicide, assault, and armed robbery, is widespread. If a tourist is only partially vaccinated, or 14 days has not passed since the final dose, they can also enter if they provide a 72-hour PCR test. Travellers to many parts of Colombia, including Bogot, are at risk of developing altitude sickness. Nationwide protests in 2021 resulted in fatalities and injuries. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. CDC twenty four seven. Road Conditions and Safety: Due to the security environment in Colombia and poor infrastructure, U.S. government employees and their families are not permitted to travel by road between most major cities. Avoid leaving food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant, and refuse offers of something to eat or drink from a stranger. Please consult the, Country Information and Travel Advisory page, Are there restrictions on intercity or interstate travel? 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. A copy of the Ministry of Healths Resolution 692 is available at: https://www.minsalud.gov.co/Normatividad_Nuevo/Resoluci%C3%B3n%20692%20de%202022.pdf, U.S. Embassy Bogota, ColombiaTel. Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Seeour webpagefor more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. COVID requirements Feb 6, 2023, 3:09 PM Save My understanding is that I need to provide proof of NEGATIVE Test or VACCINATION on the MIG form to enter Colombia before boarding overseas flight going to Colombia. In larger cities, private clinics usually provide good quality care, whereas public health facilities and those in smaller cities may be of poorer quality. Colombias land border areas are off-limits to U.S. government personnel unless specifically authorized. Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. The Colombia-Venezuela border region is currently volatile. If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care. Visitors must complete an electronic sworn statement within 48 hours of traveling and provide proof of medical insurance that covers Covid-19 treatment and quarantine. Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. Oficina 1605 All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. The security situation is volatile in many areas of the country, and at all times you should pay close attention to the warnings issued by the Colombian authorities. Exercise increased caution due to civil unrest and kidnapping. For more information, see Requirement for Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination for Air Passengers. Emergency after-hours telephone: +(57) (601) 275-4021 Luggage is sometimes damaged during screening procedures. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page. If travelling to volcanic zones e.g. Face masks are mandatory on public transport, in medical centres and in aged care facilities nationwide. 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. The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Colombia. Colombian law also restricts the importation of plants and animals (or products made from either). Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. The Colombia-Venezuela border is not clearly marked, and U.S. citizens should not go near the border due to the risk of crossing into Venezuela accidentally. Tap water is safe to drink only in Bogot. An infected pregnant woman spread it to her unborn baby, Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents, Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus). This includes areas within the Coffee region (Eje Cafetero). Test results will often be sent by email or text message. Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthlemy (French West Indies), North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea). Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes. U.S. citizens are advised not to travel to the border of Colombia and Venezuela. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. CheckCOVID-19 Country Specific Informationpages for updated information on COVID-19 related to the availability of testing. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Colombia. See our webpage onhelp for U.S. victims of crime overseas. Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. If you are a victim of a crime while in Colombia, report it to the local police immediately. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens as U.S. government-personnel travel to these areas is severely restricted due to security concerns. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Visas are not available upon arrival. If a parent is deceased, a notarized copy of a death certificate is required. Bat bites may be hard to see. Do. For more information, see the Colombian governments, National Strategic Plan for COVID-19 Vaccines, , for COVID-19 Vaccines, which includes a phased rollout plan. Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Scopolamine, a fast-acting incapacitating drug, is often surreptitiously applied to food, drinks, and hand sanitizer vials by criminals to rob or assault their victims. Demonstrations occur regularly throughout the country. Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. April 2023 Colombian authorities are monitoring the Nevado del Ruiz volcano, located between the boundaries of Caldas and Tolima, which has been showing signs of increased seismic activity since March 24, 2023. Face Masks Road travel in Colombia can be dangerous, especially at night. Rabid dogs are commonly found in Colombia. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. Make sure you know your test results before travel. Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Colombia may be poor. No, Are PCR and/or antigen tests available for U.S. citizens in Colombia? Review the. Carry contact information for the nearest. Criminals won't hesitate to use weapons on victims who refuse to co-operate. U.S. citizens attempting to enter Venezuela without a visa have been charged with terrorism and other serious crimes and detained for long periods. Adequate health facilities are available throughout the country, but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance. If you are in need of such assistance, you should dial (1) 657 6060 (from a Colombian landline), 601 657 6060 (from a Colombian mobile number), or +57 1 657 6060 (from an Irish phone number) and leave a message on the system. Petty theft, such as pick-pocketing and bag-snatching, is relatively common in Colombia, including at the airport in Bogot, on public transport, and near hotels. GS: Since December 14, all international travelers over 18 years old entering Colombia must be fully vaccinated and show their COVID-19 vaccination card. If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections. These may change with little warning. The CDC's latest guidance on international travel for vaccinated people can be foundhere. Frequently, their aim is focused on unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as: In Colombia, the National Liberation Army (ELN), the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia - Peoples Army (FARC-EP), and Segunda Marquetalia terrorist organizations continue plotting and executing attacks. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you. Use a dispatch service or cell phone app whenever possible. Accepted vaccines are those authorized by WHO. Information may also be posted to theU.S. Coast Guard homeport websiteand theNGA broadcast warnings. The Colombian governments regulatory authority has granted emergency use authorization for the Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson, Sinovac, Moderna, and Zifivax vaccines. Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. We receive occasional reports of U.S. citizens suffering these consequences. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means youve safely connected to the .gov website. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs. If you intend to travel on to neighbouring countries in Latin America from Colombia, you may not be allowed to do so without production of a yellow-fever vaccination certificate. Where possible, plan how you will travel to and from your destination. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about, Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about. Though the security situation in Colombia has improved in recent years, terrorism and serious criminal activities remain significant threats. Visit theMinistry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourismwebsite for the most current visa information. Yes. You should monitor local media for updates and follow the advice of local authorities. Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine. This is ONLY to enter Colombia right ? Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. Colombia travel advice. Buy Covid Travel Insurance U.S. citizens are advised not to travel to the border of Colombia and Venezuela. Entry requirements: negative test taken within 96 hours. As per our April 15th message, gender-based restrictions on mobility in Bogota went into effect on Monday, April 13. Bring a. Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Travel Requirements for Non-U.S. Citizen, Non-U.S. These cookies allow us to count visits and traffic sources so we can measure and improve the performance of our site. Visittravel.state.govto view individual Travel Advisories for the most urgent threats to safety and security. Authorities have indicated that an eruption is likely in the coming days or weeks. This system is checked regularly and a member of Embassy staff will contact you as soon as possible. In many cities and municipalities, the wearing of facemasks is no longer mandatory in certain indoor and outdoor spaces. The 'Darien Gap' is a dangerous area renowned for the presence of several illegal armed groups, illegal migration, and drugs trafficking. Public Transportation: Do not hail taxis on the street. So please take extreme care with your passport and other personal documentation. Review the. Yes, If so, are test results reliably available within one calendar day? Centro Empresarial Las Americas 1, Barranquilla, Atlntico, Colombia If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Criminals do utilize dating apps to target potential victims of theft, so travelers should use caution on such apps. For flights . Homosexuality is legal but not widely accepted, especially in rural areas. U.S. citizens are at risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela from Colombia. Spiritual cleansing or yage retreats often take place in remote areas, making access to medical attention difficult for those who need it. You should regularly reassess your security arrangements and consider carefully any travel around the country. Reconsider travel due to crime and terrorism. Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick. Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Colombia are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long pre-trial detention and lengthy prison sentences under harsh conditions, with significant expense and hardship for themselves and their families. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the. U.S. citizens attempting to enter Venezuela without a visa have been charged with terrorism and other serious crimes and detained for long periods. Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Colombia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Its best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Colombia. Please seeYour COVID-19 Vaccinationfor more information. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in or near major cities.