Colombia Entry 2025: Check-MIG, Nomad Visa & Tax Residency Rules

Entry Requirements 2025

Check-MIG: Optional but Recommended

As of January 2, 2025, the Check-MIG form is officially no longer mandatory for air travel.

• Reality Check: Many airlines still ask for it at check-in out of habit or outdated systems.
• Advice: Fill it out anyway (it's free). It takes 2 minutes and saves you from arguing with a gate agent in Miami.

The Digital Nomad Visa (Visa V Nómada Digital)

• Income Requirement: ~3x Minimum Wage (approx $900-$1100 USD).
• Tax Trap: The visa allows you to stay, but tax residency is triggered if you stay > 183 days in a 365-day period.
• Consequence: If you become a tax resident, you are liable for Colombian income tax on your worldwide income. Many nomads limit their stay to < 180 days to avoid this.

Customs & Electronics

• Personal Use: One laptop and two phones are standard duty-free allowances.
• "Unaccompanied Luggage": If you ship your monitor or desktop separately, it's a nightmare. You need a specific inventory, a "530 Form", and will likely pay 15% duty.
• Recommendation: Bring your expensive tech in your carry-on.

Safety Tip

"Don't flash your phone on the street in Medellin. 'No dar papaya' (don't give opportunity) is the golden rule."