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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 (Cédula de Extranjería).
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:
At expatgroup.co, we assist you with the Colombia visa application and the appointment to obtain the Foreign ID Card (Cédula de Extranjería).
How to obtain the Cédula de Extranjería in Colombia?
Visa
To have a valid visa for more than three months.
Electronic Visa
Photocopy of the electronic visa.
Valid passport
Original and copy of the main page.
Blood Text
Know your HR or have a photocopy of your blood test (this is only necessary if it is the first time you apply for a cédula de extranjería.
FUT
Confirmation of the Single Form of Formalities ‘Formulario Único de Trámites’.
Receipt of payment
It is possible to make the payment at the Immigration office in cash or by credit card, according to the indication provided by the officer attending your case.
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.
Do you know how to obtain your Cédula de Extranjería (Colombian ID)?
At expatgroup.co, we understand how fulfilling it is to achieve the final step of obtaining your resident status in Colombia with cédula de extranjería. That’s why, we invite you to download our guide to confidently obtain yours.
