The Exit Check-Mig: Why You Need It and How to Do It Before You Fly Out

While the entry Check-Mig gets all the attention, the Exit Check-Mig is the silent gatekeeper of your journey home. This guide ensures you don't spend your final hours in Colombia franticly refreshing a crashing website.

Updated: • Read time: ~15 minutes

The Mandatory Requirement: Why Two Forms?

It seems redundant, but the Check-Mig system is designed to "close the loop" of your travel record. For the Colombian government, this is vital for security and for tracking tourist stay limits.

The Airline’s Responsibility: Airlines are the primary gatekeepers. They are fined heavily for boarding passengers without this form, so they will strictly deny boarding passes until they see your PDF confirmation.

Timing Your Submission: The 72-Hour Rule

Timing is everything. The system operates on a strict window that you must navigate carefully:

  • The Window Opens: 72 hours prior to your flight’s departure.
  • The Window Closes: 1 hour before departure.

Recommendation: Complete your exit form 24 hours before your flight. This provides a safety buffer for technical glitches or server crashes which are common during peak travel hours.

Step-by-Step Guide: Completing the "Salida" Form

The process for the exit form is nearly identical to the entry form, but requires selecting the correct "flow."

  1. Selecting the Flow: Ensure "Salida" (Departure) is highlighted on the landing page.
  2. Flight Information: Enter your departure city and flight number (numeric only—e.g., enter "1234" for flight AV1234).
  3. Personal Details: Use the exact passport used for your entry.
  4. Health and Security: Answer the mandatory digital screening questions.
  5. The Confirmation PDF: Download the file immediately. Do not rely on the email confirmation as it often arrives late.
Start Exit Check-Mig Filing Instructions

Navigating the "Technical Minefield"

The government portal is notorious for "Bad Gateway" errors. If you encounter issues:

  • Use Incognito Mode: This clears cache/cookies that might be causing loop errors.
  • Switch Devices: If your laptop fails, try a smartphone with mobile data instead of hotel Wi-Fi.
  • Flight Number Bug: If your flight isn't listed, use the "Other/Otro" option or check for a professional assistance service to manualy verify your data.

What Happens if You Don't Have It?

If you show up at BOG, MDE, or CTG without your Exit Check-Mig, expect the following:

  • Check-in Denial: The agent will send you away to complete it before tagging your bags.
  • The Panic Scramble: You will join other stressed travelers huddled around weak airport Wi-Fi.
  • Security Delays: Even with a boarding pass, Migración officers at passport control will verify the digital record before letting you exit.

Special Cases: Land Borders and Dual Citizens

Leaving by Land: While enforcement is less "automatic" at borders like Ipiales or Cúcuta, it is still legally required. Border officials may ask for it before stamping you out.

Dual Citizens: You must complete the form using the passport you used to enter the country to ensure your record is closed correctly.

Pro-Tips for a Stress-Free Exit

  • Screenshot the QR Code: If your phone can't load a PDF due to poor signal, a screenshot is usually accepted.
  • Language Toggle: If the English site crashes, try the Spanish version (look for "Salida").
  • Double Check: Before leaving for the airport, ensure you have your boarding pass AND your Check-Mig PDF saved offline.

Conclusion: Don't Let Paperwork Ruin the Memories

Colombia is a country of "Magic Realism," but there is nothing magical about being stuck at the airport. Take 10 minutes to complete your form 24 hours early and ensure your last memory of Colombia is a sunset over the Andes, not a 404 error.

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