Pcr Test: Essential For Entry To Colombia?

As of 2024, there are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Colombia. However, in December 2021, Colombia's Health Minister, Fernando Ruiz, announced that travellers wishing to enter the country must present either a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel or a vaccination certificate. This decision was based on an increase in infections in recent weeks and to allow the mass vaccination process to continue without disruption. It is important to note that entry requirements can change, so travellers should consult official sources for the most up-to-date information before planning their trip to Colombia.

A negative COVID-19 PCR test is required to enter Colombia

As of December 2021, Colombia requires all travellers, including citizens, residents, diplomats, and tourists, to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or a vaccination certificate to enter the country. This measure was implemented by the Colombian government in response to the increase in infections in the preceding weeks and to facilitate the mass vaccination process.

The PCR test must be taken within 72 hours before travelling to Colombia, and the last COVID-19 vaccine dose must have been administered at least 14 days prior to travel. If you have been vaccinated less than 14 days before your trip, you will also need to submit a negative PCR test result within the specified timeframe.

It is important to note that there may be additional requirements for entry into Colombia, such as registering your details on the Colombian government's CheckMig application within 72 hours before your flight and having a valid passport. It is recommended to consult official sources, such as the Colombian Ministry of Health or the local Colombian Embassy, for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding entry requirements.

In addition to the COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements, travellers should be aware of other health considerations when visiting Colombia. For example, the Colombian authorities require proper vaccination against yellow fever for those wishing to visit certain tourist sites like the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Park or the Amazon reserves. Other recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A and Typhoid fever, and Malaria pills are advised if you plan to visit the rainforest regions.

A vaccination certificate is also accepted

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Colombia. However, there are other entry requirements that must be fulfilled. For example, you must be able to show an onward or return ticket valid within a 90-day period. You will also need to fill in the 'Check-Mig' form between 72 hours and one hour before travelling to Colombia.

If you are travelling to Colombia from another country, you may need to present a vaccination certificate, a recovery certificate, or a negative COVID-19 test result. This depends on the requirements of the country you are travelling from. For example, if you are travelling from Spain, you must meet one of the following health requirements:

• Vaccination certificate: This must include the name and surname of the holder, the vaccination date, the type of vaccine administered, the number of doses administered, and identification of the issuing body. Accepted vaccines include Pfizer-Biontech, Moderna, Astra-Zeneca, Jansen/Johnson&Johnson, Sinovac, and Sinopharm. It is important to note that at least 14 days must have passed since the last dose, and a booster dose must be administered if more than 270 days have passed.
• Diagnostic certificate: You must show a negative COVID-19 NAAT (PCR, LAMP, TMA, or equivalent) test result taken within 72 hours, or an antigen test taken within 24 hours, prior to your departure.
• Recovery certificate: Certificates of recovery issued by a competent authority or medical service at least 11 days after the first positive test will be accepted as valid. The certificate is valid for 180 days after the date of the first positive diagnostic test result.

The PCR test must be taken 72 hours before entering Colombia

As of December 2021, Colombia requires travellers to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or a vaccination certificate to enter the country. This requirement applies to all travellers, including citizens, residents, diplomats, and tourists. The PCR test must be taken within 72 hours before entering Colombia. This means that you should carefully plan your test timing to ensure it falls within this timeframe.

It is important to note that the PCR test must be performed by a reputable laboratory or healthcare provider. When scheduling your test, be sure to allow enough time for the results to be processed and delivered before your trip. Keep in mind that test results may take anywhere from a few hours to a few days to come back, depending on the facility and their current workload. Therefore, it is always best to schedule your test as early as possible to avoid any last-minute delays or complications.

In addition to the PCR test or vaccination certificate, travellers must also fill out the Colombia migration pre-registration form online. This form can be found on the official website of the Colombian government. It is important to provide accurate and up-to-date information on the form to avoid any issues during your travel.

While the PCR test and vaccination certificate are currently required for entry into Colombia, it is important to stay updated on the latest travel requirements. The rules and regulations may change over time, so it is recommended to check the Colombian government websites or consult with the Colombian Embassy for the most current information before planning your trip.

Additionally, it is worth noting that there are no specific vaccine requirements to enter Colombia. However, if you plan to visit certain tourist sites, such as national parks or Amazon reserves, you may be required to provide proof of vaccination against yellow fever. This vaccine must be administered at least 10 days prior to travelling to these destinations.

The last COVID-19 vaccine dose must be applied at least 14 days before travel

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Colombia. This means that a PCR test is not required to enter the country. However, there are other requirements that must be met before travelling to Colombia.

Additionally, it is recommended that travellers check their vaccination status before departing for Colombia. This includes ensuring that all necessary vaccines, including booster shots, are up to date. Travellers should also be aware of the COVID-19 situation in Colombia and follow local guidelines and protocols during their visit. It is always a good idea to stay informed about the latest developments and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and others.

Moreover, travellers should be mindful of other entry requirements for Colombia. For instance, a passport is required to enter the country, and it is recommended that the passport has an 'expiry date' at least 6 months after the planned departure date from Colombia. Proper documentation is crucial to ensure a smooth travel experience and to avoid any issues upon arrival or departure.

Lastly, it is important to note that travel recommendations and requirements can change rapidly. Therefore, travellers should stay updated by checking official sources and seeking the most current information before planning their trip to Colombia. By staying informed, travellers can ensure they meet all the necessary requirements and have a safe and enjoyable journey.

No other vaccines are required to enter Colombia

As of July 2024, there are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Colombia. However, it is recommended that all eligible travellers are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines.

Other recommended vaccines, which are not mandatory, include immunisation against hepatitis A and typhoid fever. Malaria pills are also advisable if you are visiting the rainforest regions, where insect repellent and mosquito nets are also recommended.

Frequently asked questions