Colombia Visa-Free Entry
Andean Community Free Movement · For Ecuador citizens
Great news for Ecuadorian travelers! You can visit Colombia without a visa for up to 90 days. As a member of the Andean Community of Nations, Ecuador enjoys visa-free access to Colombia. This guide covers entry requirements, what documents to bring, and tips for a smooth border crossing.
Colombia Entry for Ecuadorian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Ecuador citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
As an Andean Community member, you can enter Colombia with either a valid passport or your Ecuadorian cédula de identidad
Complete the online Check-Mig migration form before arrival
Recommended (Optional)
May be requested at immigration: proof of return ticket or onward travel
Immigration may ask for evidence of sufficient funds for your stay
Address where you will be staying in Colombia
Entry Process
Entering Colombia as an Ecuadorian citizen is straightforward thanks to the Andean Community agreement.2 Follow these simple steps:
1. Complete Check-Mig Online (Recommended)
Before traveling, fill out the Check-Mig pre-registration form at the Migración Colombia website.4 Enter your travel details, accommodation information, and personal data. You will receive a QR code to present at immigration.
2. Arrive at Border or Airport
Present your valid passport or cédula de identidad to the immigration officer.1 If you completed Check-Mig, show your QR code. The officer will stamp your passport or record your entry electronically.
3. Receive Entry Permission
You will be granted permission to stay for up to 90 days.1 The officer may ask about:
- Purpose of your visit
- Where you will stay
- When you plan to leave
4. Enter Colombia
That’s it! No visa fee, no separate application process. Welcome to Colombia.
Fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa Fee | Free (not required) |
| Check-Mig Form | Free |
| Entry Stamp | Free |
There are no government fees for Ecuadorians entering Colombia as tourists.1
What You Need to Bring
While entry is visa-free, you should have:1
- Valid identity document (passport or cédula)1
- Check-Mig QR code for faster processing4
- Accommodation address to provide if asked
- Return or onward travel proof (not always required but helpful)
- Means of financial support (cards, cash, or bank statements)
Processing Time
Entry is processed on arrival. At airports, immigration typically takes 5-15 minutes. At land border crossings like Rumichaca, wait times vary based on traffic but are usually under 30 minutes.
| Entry Point | Typical Wait Time |
|---|---|
| Bogotá El Dorado Airport | 5-15 minutes |
| Cartagena Airport | 5-10 minutes |
| Rumichaca Land Border | 15-45 minutes |
| San Miguel Land Border | 10-30 minutes |
Extending Your Stay
If you want to stay longer than 90 days, you have options:1
- Exit and re-enter: Leave Colombia and return for a new 90-day period (note: maximum 180 days per year applies)
- Apply for extension: Visit a Migración Colombia office before your 90 days expire to request an extension
- Apply for a visa: If you plan extended stays regularly, consider a Colombian visa
Land Border Tips
If crossing at Rumichaca (the main Ecuador-Colombia border):
- Get exit stamp from Ecuador first: Visit Ecuadorian immigration before the bridge
- Walk across: The border area is pedestrian-friendly
- Get entry stamp from Colombia: Visit Colombian immigration on the other side
- Currency exchange: Many exchange houses operate at the border, but rates in cities are often better
- Bus connections: Frequent buses run from Tulcán (Ecuador) to Ipiales and onward to Pasto, Cali, and Bogotá
If Entry is Refused
Entry refusals for Ecuadorians are rare but can happen for the following reasons:1
- Invalid documents: Ensure your passport or cédula is valid and undamaged
- Previous violations: Overstays or immigration issues may result in denial
- Incomplete information: Answer immigration questions honestly and directly
If refused, you have the right to understand the reason. Contact Migración Colombia for guidance on resolving any issues before attempting to enter again.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Invalid or Damaged Documents
Entry denied due to expired passport, damaged cédula, or documents that cannot be read or verified.
How to avoid: Check that your passport or cédula is valid and in good condition before traveling. Damaged documents may be rejected.
Previous Immigration Violations
History of overstaying in Colombia or other countries, or previous deportation orders.
How to avoid: Resolve any past immigration issues before attempting to enter Colombia. If previously deported, check if the ban has expired.
Insufficient Proof of Funds
Unable to demonstrate means to support yourself during your stay when questioned by immigration officers.
How to avoid: Carry some cash or have cards ready to show. Bank apps on your phone showing balance can help if questioned.
Security Concerns
Name matches watch lists or immigration system flags for further review.
How to avoid: If you share a name with someone on watch lists, bring additional identification and be prepared for extra questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Ecuadorians need a visa to visit Colombia?
No, Ecuadorian citizens do not need a visa to visit Colombia. As members of the Andean Community of Nations (CAN), Ecuadorians can enter Colombia freely for tourism, business meetings, or family visits for up to 90 days.
Can I enter Colombia with just my cédula?
Yes, Ecuadorians can enter Colombia using either a valid passport or the Ecuadorian cédula de identidad. Both documents are accepted at airports and land border crossings. The cédula makes travel between Andean Community countries especially easy.
How long can I stay in Colombia as an Ecuadorian?
You can stay up to 90 days per entry. If you want to stay longer, you can either exit and re-enter, or apply for a visa extension at Migración Colombia before your 90 days expire. Note that maximum stay is 180 days per calendar year for most visitors.
What is Check-Mig and is it required?
Check-Mig is Colombia's electronic migration form that should be completed 24-72 hours before arrival. While not always strictly enforced, it speeds up immigration processing significantly. Complete it at apps.migracioncolombia.gov.co and save the QR code.
What are the main border crossings between Ecuador and Colombia?
The main land crossing is at Rumichaca/Ipiales on the Pan-American Highway, which is open 24 hours. Other crossings include San Miguel (Lago Agrio area) and the Pacific coast route. Most travelers use Rumichaca or fly directly to Colombian cities.
Can I work in Colombia on visa-free entry?
No, the visa-free entry only permits tourism, business meetings, and family visits. If you want to work, study, or stay longer than 90 days, you need to apply for the appropriate Colombian visa.
What currency should I bring to Colombia?
Colombia uses the Colombian peso (COP). US dollars are accepted at some tourist locations but at poor exchange rates. It's best to exchange money at banks or official exchange houses (casas de cambio) in Colombia, or withdraw pesos from ATMs.
Is travel insurance required for Colombia?
Travel insurance is not mandatory for Ecuadorians visiting Colombia, but it is highly recommended. Medical care can be expensive, and insurance provides peace of mind for emergencies.