Article August 22, 2024

Benefits of the Colombian Cédula de Extranjería

Colombia continues to position itself as the favorite destination among expats, whether with intentions of tourism, business or because they see the country as a way to develop their personal and professional projects. To achieve these objectives and access all the benefits the country gives you, it is necessary to carry out legal processes such as obtaining a visa and, subsequently, the foreigner’s identity card.

The foreigner identification card is the primary identification document of a foreigner in Colombia, which opens the doors to different benefits that can significantly facilitate your passage through the country. In this article, we tell you how to apply for your foreigner’s identification card, how much it costs, what its benefits are, and everything you should know about this legal document.

What is the Cédula de Extranjería?

The foreigner’s identification card is the legal document that identifies foreigners in Colombian territory. The Special Administrative Unit of Migration Colombia issues it. All citizens of legal age and minors over 7 years old with a valid visa for over 3 months must complete the visa registration process and request a foreigner’s identification card.

What are the benefits of the Cédula de Extranjería in Colombia?

As a foreigner, you can acquire several benefits and services only with your foreigner identification card since, in some cases, such as opening a bank account, it is not possible with a passport.

Some of the benefits that you will have with your foreign identification card are:

How to obtain the Cédula de Extranjería in Colombia?

The following link explains all the details and provides step-by-step instructions for acquiring a foreigner’s identification card: Cédula de Extranjería: Step by Step.

How much does it cost to issue my Cédula de Extranjería?

As of today, the cost to apply for a foreigner’s identification card is approximately $267.000 (COP) or 66 dollars (USD).

How long does it take to complete this process?

Once the registration and payment of the process have been made at the Immigration office, it takes approximately 10 working days to obtain the physical foreigner’s identification card (ID).

Carry out your processes with experts

As you can see, the foreigner’s identification card is a document that grants several benefits. As the primary identification document of a foreigner in Colombia, it becomes a necessity and an obligation. That is why you must apply for a foreigner’s identification card before Migración Colombia, immediately after your visa has been approved and issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Contact us, and we will guide you in the best way to achieve a legal and safe stay in Colombia.

Frequently Asked Questions

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How long does it take to get my cédula de extranjería?

Typically, it may take up to 10 business days from the payment date for the process to be completed. However, the duration may be influenced by the city and other specific factors of Migración Colombia.

What do I do if I lose my Cédula de Extranjería?

Please keep in mind the following steps if you need to request a duplicate of your document from Migración Colombia:

– You should only request a duplicate if you have lost your document. However, if your document was stolen, you must first file a report at the nearest police station, prosecutor’s office, or SIJIN.
– Visit Migración Colombia’s website to schedule an appointment for the duplicate process. During the process, select the Sub-procedure ‘Duplicate.’
– Remember to fill out the Single Form of Procedures (FUT).
– Attend the scheduled appointment at the Colombian Migration office, and bring your original passport, a copy of the visa, and the printed FUT.
– Make the payment of 246,000 Colombian pesos.

What documents should I provide to get my cédula de extranjería?

To request your Cédula de Extranjería, please bring your original passport and a copy of the main page that displays your personal information. Additionally, you’ll need a printed copy of the approved electronic visa. Your passport should be valid for at least three months. You must also show confirmation of the Formulario Único de Trámites and your payment receipt.

Minors (between 7 and 17 years old) who are visa beneficiaries must accompany the minor’s father, mother, or legal representative.

What is a Cédula de Extranjería - Foreign ID card?

The Cédula de Extranjería is a vital legal document in Colombia, serving as the official identification for foreigners. Issued by the Special Administrative Unit of Migración Colombia, this identification card is mandatory for all foreign citizens of legal age and minors over 7 years old with a valid visa for more than three months. The foreigner obtains legal recognition and access to services in Colombia; obtaining the Cédula de Extranjería is a pivotal step in ensuring a smooth and compliant stay in the country.

What is the cost of the Cédula de Extranjería?

The fees of the Cédula de Extranjería have a general rate of 246,000 Colombian pesos (50 USD approximately).

What should I do if Migración Colombia does not enable the appointment calendar?

When there are no appointments available on the scheduling platform, or they deliberately cancel your appointment and you cannot reschedule. We recommend you to go directly and without an appointment to the nearest Migration Colombia office. In this blog we detailed all the steps to follow and recommendations in these extraordinary cases.