Colombian "Cedula de Ciudadania" - What is it? Do I need it?

The cedula is the Colombian ID. (it is a mix between your SSN and your driver’s license)

You and your spouse need either a Colombian Cedula or an adoption visa to:

1.       Sign all the adoption paperwork in Colombia (law suit and final adoption decree)

2.       Get a Colombian passport for your child.

If you're Colombian by heritage or by adoption you probably don’t have one, which means you will have to apply for one, which you can do at the Colombian Consulate, To apply for a cedula you will need:

·         Original copy of your birth certificate where it shows your parents name and the file number.

·         Three color photos, 1.5” x 2”, front take, white background, where you’re wearing dark (black) clothes. Your head must be at least 1.1” in the photos.

·         Knowing your blood type  (i.e.: A+, A-, O+, AB, etc.).

·         It has no cost

You won’t get the official “Cedula” right away, but you’ll get a temporary ID called “Contraseña”.  Which you will need to apply for a Colombian passport.

To get a Colombian Passport you have two options: 

1. Apply right away at the Consulate while you’re doing the cedula paperwork or 

2. Fly to Colombia and get your passport in Bogota.  

The cost difference is $117 in the Consulate vs. $50 in Bogota, and also that it takes 15 to 20 working days in the Consulate vs. ½ hr in Bogota.

If you decide to apply for your passport in the consulate, you’ll have to make an appointment on the website www.pasaportes.gov.co where you’ll have to fill up all the information, you must make sure you show up at least 15 minutes before your appointment time.  All you need is your birth certificate and more photos (which you’ll be bringing anyway to get your Cedula)

In any event, make sure you call the Consulate before going and let them know of your situation, they will be very helpful and may expedite your paperwork!