Essential Tips: 10 Things You Must Know Before Coming to Colombia

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Hey there, fellow Black Digital Nomad & Expats

Thinking about packing your laptop and setting sail for Colombia? The land of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and irresistible coffee? Whether you're planning a visit or considering making Colombia your new home, there are essential things you need to know to navigate this South American gem successfully.

In this blog post, we're about to spill the beans (coffee pun intended) on the ten must-know tips for your Colombian adventure. From passport checks to salsa moves, we've got you covered. So grab your sombrero vueltiao, and let's dive into the heart of Colombia! 🇨🇴✈️☕

1. Passport Check

Do you know how you have to double-check to make sure you have your passport before a trip? Well, your passport’s expiration date deserves the same attention. Colombia has a strict entry requirement – least six months of validity on your passport from the date when you enter.

The airline attendants do not care about you crying either, they will not make an exception.

2. Return Flight

Colombia loves visitors, but it also loves to make sure they're temporary. You might be asked to show proof of a return or onward flight within the 90 day period before you even step on the plane.

So, unless you want to be fidgeting at the gate trying to book a quick flight make sure you've got that return ticket handy before arriving to the airport. Even if you plan on extending your visa, you’ll still need a ticket within 90 days of arrival

But Jazz I’m a nomad, I don’t know when I’m coming back. How do I buy a ticket if I don’t know the dates?

You can also buy a ticket at Onward Ticket They provide you with a flight reservation for only $16. Better than buying a flight and requesting a refund.

3. Online Registration:

Between 24 hours and 1 hour before departure, you must fill out the ‘Check-Mig’ form , available on the Migración Colombia website. You will receive a confirmation email that you will need to present upon arrival in Colombia.

4. COVID Vaccine Requirements

There are no requirements to present vaccination certificates or COVID-19 test results to enter Colombia.

5. You Can Extend Your 90 Day Visa Online

U.S. passport holders will get 90 days upon arrival to explore Colombia. After that, you must exit the country or you can extend your visa online with Migracion. Here is the website.

You can stay up to 180 days per calendar year.

6. Safety First:

Colombia has come a long way in terms of safety, but like anywhere, it pays to stay alert.

There’s a phrase here : No Dar Papaya. Which basically means, Don’t Be Sweet and get caught slipping. Pack your street smarts. Stick to well-lit areas at night, don’t walk alone at night, keep an eye on your belongings, and don't flaunt your tech gear too conspicuously. Trust your gut, and you'll be fine. Don’t meet women on Tinder. Use Uber over random taxis.

7. Embrace the Pace:

Colombia runs on its own clock – a laid-back, mañana (tomorrow) attitude. So, if your digital nomad hustle involves tight schedules, you might need to adjust to "Colombian time."Most things will not start on time. But hey, it's all part of the adventure! Turns out CPT time means Colombian Time.

Unless they are taxis. Then they will drive as if you’re late to your own funeral! Fast and crazy!

8. Learn Spanish

Picture this : You land in Colombia, all excited to explore the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes. But guess what? You can't speak a word of Spanish! It's like showing up to a salsa dance-off armed with the Macarena. You might end up with some puzzled looks and a whole lot of awkward shuffling. So, fellow Black Digital Nomads, remember that speaking some Spanish is your passport to unlocking the real Colombia. Without it, you'll be lost in translation, and trust me, "No hablo español" won't save you when you're getting scammed by a taxi.

I take affordable 1-on-1 classes with LingotoGo. The teachers are Colombian which helps with the Paisa slang. Use my link to get a FREE TEN-DAY TRIAL WITH NO CREDIT CARD NEEDED.

I also love Lingo Mastery 's YouTube page. Her videos are so practical and concise .

9. Digital Nomad Visa:

Colombian has finally launched their digital nomad visa which grants you up to work remotely for 2 years. It’s brand new and still one of the easiest visas to get currently. I was approved for two years and many of my clients have been too. Need help with your visa? We can assist you. Here

10. Finding the US on forms

A man missed his flight to Colombia from Miami because when he was looking for the UNITED STATES on the migracion form “it wasn’t listed” This caused him to believe he did not need the form however when he got to the gate to board, he was not allowed on the plane.

Well, it was listed just as ESTADOS UNIDOS which is the USA in Spanish. Don’t make this same mistake.

So, there you have it, dear Black Digital Nomad! Colombia is a vibrant, diverse, and welcoming destination for remote work adventures. Just remember your passport, return flight ticket, and your best salsa moves, and you'll be ready to explore this incredible country. Happy travels! 💃🌴✈️

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