Colombian Government Closes Land and River Borders Due to Presidential Elections

Published at: 30/05/2026 02:59 PM

As part of the actions of the Plan Democracy 2026 designed by the Government of President Gustavo Petro to guarantee security on election day next Sunday, May 31, the Special Administrative Unit for Migration Colombia announced the temporary closure of land and river crossings.

In accordance with Decree 0188 of February 27, 2026, this restriction will take effect from 18:00 (6:00 p.m.) next Saturday, May 30, and until 06:00 (6:00 a.m.) on Monday, June 1, 2026.

Article 26 of the regulation orders the closure of authorized border crossings during that period, and states that the measure must include migratory controls at land and river posts. However, the restriction will be exempt for fortuitous cases or force majeure.

During the closure period, the transit of passengers through authorized border crossings will be restricted. The other immigration checkpoints in the country will continue to operate under established protocols and in accordance with current provisions.

In developing Plan Democracy 2026, Migration Colombia will deploy a special operation in the country's border areas, reinforcing the entry and exit controls of travelers together with the Military Forces and the National Police to prevent situations that may affect public order or compromise the development of the electoral process.

The Democracy Plan 2026 is an inter-institutional strategy led by the national Government to guarantee security, public order and the normal development of electoral day throughout the national territory.

The restriction “is a sovereign measure aimed at guaranteeing national security and the proper development of the democratic process. Migration Colombia will maintain a permanent operational deployment in the country's border areas,” explained Gloria Esperanza Arriero López, Director General of Migration Colombia.

The entity issued a call to citizens and travelers to obtain information through official channels and to adopt the necessary measures to avoid setbacks during the validity of this provision.

Mazo News Team