Colombia

Visas

Nationals of some countries, including most of Western Europe, the Americas, Japan, Australia and New Zealand, don't need a visa to enter Colombia. It's a good idea to check this before your planned trip, because visa regulations change frequently.

All visitors get an entry stamp or print in their passport from Departamento Administrativo de Seguridad (DAS; the security police responsible for immigration) upon arrival at any international airport or land border crossing. The stamp says how many days you can stay in the country. The maximum allowed is 90 days, but DAS officials often stamp 60 or just 30 days.

Make sure you get an entry stamp or you'll have troubles later. Official money changers and banks will want to see your entry stamp, as will police if there are any problems. When departing the country, if you don't have a stamp you'll also have to pay a fine (around US$60) and get a salvoconducto (literally, 'safe conduct') from a DAS office. Similarly, make sure you have a departure stamp or there will be trouble the next time around.

Visa extensions

You are entitled to a 30-day extension (costing US$25), which can be obtained from DAS in any departmental capital. The new 30 days begins from the end of the visa already stamped in your passport (so there's no need to wait to the last minute). Most travelers apply for an extension in Bogotá.