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U.S. State Department Issues Warning Against Traveling to These Popular Caribbean and South American Countries

The U.S. Department of State is warning Americans to reconsider traveling to Jamaica and Colombia.

The U.S. Department of State is warning Americans to reconsider traveling to a pair of popular Caribbean and South American countries amid a recent uptick in crime.

The State Department last week re-classified both Colombia and Jamaica as “Level 3,” urging Americans to “reconsider travel” to the countries. The State Department regularly assesses the security and health situations in each country and adjusts the classification accordingly on a scale of one (which indicates travelers should exercise normal precautions) to four (which warns Americans not to travel there).

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In Jamaica, the department warned “violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common” and said “sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts .” The Department added “local police often do not respond effectively to serious criminal incidents.”

A do not travel advisory was issued for several areas on the island, including downtown Kingston.

In Colombia , the State Department warned travelers should reconsider their trip “due to crime and terrorism” and should “exercise increased caution due to civil unrest and kidnapping.” Additionally, the department warned terrorist organizations may carry out attacks on transportation hubs, shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, airports, or other public areas.

The department said travelers especially should not visit the Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments, and should not go to the Colombia-Venezuela border region “due to crime, kidnapping, and risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela from Colombia.”

“Violent crime, such as homicide, assault, and armed robbery, is widespread,” the State Department wrote in its updated advisory. “Organized criminal activities, such as extortion, robbery, and kidnapping, are common in some areas.”

If travelers do go to Colombia , the Department said they should avoid protests and large crowds and keep a low profile.

Travelers who do visit these countries can enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive alerts “and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.”

State Department urges travelers to ‘reconsider’ visiting Jamaica, Colombia

The State Department is urging Americans to “reconsider travel” to Jamaica and Colombia due to crime and, in Colombia’s case, terrorism.

The department regularly assesses risks for Americans abroad and had previously issued travel advisories for both Colombia and Jamaica but reissued them with fresh updates. 

“Violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common. Sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts,” the State Department says in its level 3 travel advisory for Jamaica.

The State Department similarly warns of “widespread” violent crimes in Colombia, including homicide, assault and armed robbery and in some places, kidnapping and extortion. Additionally, terrorist and criminal organizations may attack public areas like airports, hotels and restaurants without warning, and due to civil unrest, “demonstrations occur regularly throughout the country” and “protests can become violent and can result in fatalities and injuries.” 

"The U.S. Department of State has no higher priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas," a State Department spokesperson said. "We take seriously our commitment to provide U.S. citizens with clear, timely, and reliable information about every country in the world so they can make informed travel decisions."

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Here’s what travelers should know about visiting Colombia and Jamaica:

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Why is there a travel warning to Jamaica?

The biggest risk factor is crime, but the response to crime is also important to note. 

“Local police do not respond effectively to serious criminal incidents,” according to the State Department. “When arrests are made, cases are infrequently prosecuted to a conclusive sentence. Families of U.S. citizens killed in accidents or homicides frequently wait a year or more for final death certificates to be issued by Jamaican authorities.”

The State Department adds that emergency services and hospital care vary widely across Jamaica and U.S. government personnel are not allowed to travel to many areas due to increased risk, meaning travelers have limited resources if something goes awry.

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Is it safe to travel to Colombia?

For now, the State Department is encouraging Americans to reconsider visiting Colombia in general due to crime, terrorism and civil unrest.

There are, however, specific parts of the country Americans are urged to avoid. The State Department says “do not travel” to Arauca, Cauca and Norte de Santander Departments, where violent crime is widespread, terrorist groups can be active and “the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens as U.S. government-personnel travel to these areas is severely restricted due to security concerns.” Popular tourist spots are located in Bogotá and Medellín, which are several hours away from the highlighted states by car.

Americans are also urged to avoid the border area between Colombia and Venezuela, which in many places is not clearly marked and where U.S. citizens risk being detained and charged with terrorism and other crimes. 

How to travel like a spy: CIA tips to stay safe on vacation

What should you do before traveling to Jamaica or Colombia? 

Travelers who decide to visit Jamaica, Colombia, or any country with safety risks are urged to enroll in the State Department’s free Smart Travel Enrollment Program , read the destination’s Country Security Report , prepare contingency plans for emergencies, be aware of their surroundings, keep a low profile, and follow the State Department on Facebook and Twitter for updates.

Additional destination-specific tips are available online through the State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs .

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U.S. issues “worldwide” security alert, reissues Level-3 advisory for Colombia.

The U.S. Department of State has issued a “worldwide” caution for American citizens traveling abroad, raising concerns about growing tensions in the Middle East and the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations, or violent actions against U.S. citizens in various international destinations popular among tourists.

While the worldwide caution does not specify any particular global event or conflict, it comes amidst raging violence across the Middle East after the Palestinian terrorist organization Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, resulting in widespread massacres and a civilian death toll of 1,300.

The advisory aligns with President Joe Biden’s recent trip to Israel, where he met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu while the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) continue their military response in Gaza. Tensions across the Middle East, including Turkey, have escalated following Biden’s visit to Tel Aviv, and likelihood of an imminent Israeli invasion of Gaza.

In addition to the global alert, the U.S. State Department has maintained a level three travel advisory for Colombia. It urges American citizens to exercise increased caution when traveling to Colombia due to the presence of terrorist and transnational criminal organizations in the country.

The U.S. Embassy reiterated this advisory on October 12, emphasizing concerns related to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping.

The advisory underscores that despite ongoing peace negotiations between the Colombian government illegal armed groups, these organizations continue to operate and carry out armed actions within the country. U.S. citizens are cautioned about the potential for attacks by these groups, which could occur with little or no warning. Targets by the National Liberation Army (ELN), FARC dissident groups EMC and Segunda Marquetalia, as well as the Clan del Golfo and other criminal organizations, could include transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, local government facilities, police stations, military facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, airports, other public areas, and U.S. government facilities.

The advisory strongly tells nationals “Do Not Travel” to the Colombia-Venezuela border, and departments of Norte de Santander, Cauca (excluding Popayán) and Arauca, given “widespread violent crime.”

As a precaution, the U.S. State Department advises U.S. citizens to remain vigilant, maintain heightened situational awareness, and incorporate strong personal security practices into their daily activities while in Colombia.

According to Reuters, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland said on Thursday that the Justice Department is monitoring an increase in reported threats against Jewish, Muslim and Arab communities in the United States tied to Israel’s war with Hamas in Gaza. The last time the U.S Government issued a “worldwide” alert followed the killing of al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri, in August 2022. In that warning the U.S government claimed “supporters of al- Qa’ida, or its affiliated terrorist organizations, may seek to attack U.S. facilities, personnel, or citizens.”

President Joe Biden will address the nation from the Oval Office on Thursday (8:00 PM EST), stating on “X” that “W e are at a global inflection point that is bigger than party or politics.”

Both the worldwide and Colombia advisories ask American citizens to enroll in the State Department’s “Smart Traveler Enrollment Program” to receive information and alerts, making it easier to locate them in the event of an overseas emergency.

The City Paper was founded in 2008 as Colombia’s first free English language newspaper. A decade later, it was awarded the country’s Manuel Murillo Toro medal in communications for contributing to informed and objective coverage of Colombia.

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State Department Issues Urgent Advisory Encouraging Americans Not To Travel to Jamaica and Colombia

The State Department has recently strongly advised American citizens to reassess their travel plans to Jamaica and Colombia. The decision comes in light of growing concerns over crime rates in both countries and the additional threat of terrorism, specifically in Colombia. This cautionary message follows the department’s routine evaluation of potential risks Americans traveling abroad face. While prior travel advisories had already been issued for Colombia and Jamaica, the State Department has now published updated warnings to ensure travelers are well-informed about the current situation.

“Violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common. Sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts,” the State Department says in its level 3 travel advisory for Jamaica.

The State Department has issued a stark warning about the prevalent occurrence of violent crimes in Colombia, encompassing a range of offenses such as homicide, assault, and armed robbery. In certain regions, there is also a risk of kidnapping and extortion. Moreover, the department highlights the unpredictable nature of terrorist and criminal groups, which may launch sudden attacks on public spaces like airports, hotels, and restaurants. The advisory emphasizes that these incidents can transpire without prior notice, posing a severe threat to the safety of individuals. Compounding the concerns are the frequent instances of civil unrest throughout the country, with demonstrations occurring regularly. The State Department cautions that these protests have the potential to turn violent, leading to fatalities and injuries. Travelers are urged to exercise utmost caution and stay informed about the evolving situation in Colombia.

“The U.S. Department of State has no higher priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas,” a State Department spokesperson said. “We take seriously our commitment to provide U.S. citizens with clear, timely, and reliable information about every country in the world so they can make informed travel decisions.”

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Is Colombia Safe To Visit? Travel Advisory 2024

Colombia is no longer the narco country frequently portrayed on international streaming services.

Terrorism and guerrillas are mostly gone, and locals and foreigners have been able to start thousands of extremely successful tourism businesses across the country.

With a growing economy and skyrocketing tourism, most visits are trouble-free.  

However, not everything is good news. Colombia is still under “Travel Alert Level 3”. This means visitors should carefully “reconsider travel,” or have a security plan ready. 

Parts of the Colombian jungle and borders connecting Venezuela are still very dangerous to visit. Most Colombians will tell you there is no rational reason to go there. Then, don’t go.

Stick to popular metropolitan cities and Caribbean and Atlantic beaches, and follow the next recommendations to ensure a safe visit to the “ Third Most Beautiful Country in the World !,” according to Forbes. 

LATEST NEWS from Colombia:

February – the u.s. embassy in colombia emits “security alert” due to ongoing crime in the country..

Back in February, the U.S. Embassy in Colombia had to release a “Security Alert” due to concerns regarding armed robberies targeting tourist venues, especially in Bogota, the country’s capital.

The agency also reminded Americans that terrorist groups can carry out attacks at markets, shopping malls, police and military local and international facilities, hotels and airports with little to no notice.

The U.S. government, however, acknowledges that such criminal groups do not specifically target Americans as they do in other countries.

Read our section “Safety Tips for Colombia” to learn what actions to take if get caught in a dangerous situation.

January Security Alert – Dangerous Dating Tourist Trap to Be Aware of

8 fatal incidents in 2 months prompted the U.S. Embassy to caution Americans, especially men, about the dangers of using dating apps in the country, particularly in Medellin, Bogota, and Cartagena.

Scopolamine, also known as the devil’s breath, is the drug that beautiful criminal women use to control their victims. Unable to think for themselves, victims hand in all their valuables and reveal their bank passwords and PINs. Not always but in some cases, they also die. 

Crime Statistics in Colombia

Macrotrends has revealed some of the most eye-opening crime rates and murder and homicide statistics of Colombia.

The platform clarifies the difference between homicides committed due to domestic and interpersonal violence, murders perpetrated due to land and resource control, and homicides committed by large criminal organizations. The latter, it says, is usually excluded.

 Crime statistics

• In 2021, crime rate reached 27.48% , a 13.37% rise over 2020.
• In 2020, crime rate reached 24.24 , a 5.87% decrease over 2019.
• In 2019, crime rate reached 25.75 , a 1.82% decrease over 2018.
• In 2018, crime rate reached 26.23 , a 3.13% rise over 2017.

Murder and homicide statistics 

• In 2021,  murder-homicide rate reached 27.48 , a 13.37% rise over 2020.
• In 2020, murder-homicide rate reached 24.24 , a 5.87% decrease over 2019.
• In 2019, murder-homicide rate reached 25.75 , a 1.82% decrease over 2018.
• In 2018, murder-homicide rate reached 26.23 , a 3.13% rise over 2017.

As of 2024, Colombia has one of the highest criminality scores with 72.81 points . 

Areas to Avoid

International governmental agencies are clear. Do Not travel to these Colombian regions if you want to avoid getting kidnapped and even murdered by the remaining criminal groups still operating in the territory. 

These areas include:

• Arauca, Cauca, Puerto Carreño and Norte de Santander Departments (except for its capital Cúcuta) 

These territories are plagued by violence, armed attacks, homicide and drug trafficking.

• Colombia – Venezuela Border 

The Colombia and Venezuela border is another hotspot travelers, especially Americans, should avoid at all times.

Inadvertently crossing the Venezuela border can get you into serious legal trouble. In the past, international visitors have seen themselves charged with terrorism and other awful allegations. In this case, local and international governments can do little to help you.

• For its part, the U.K. Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office urges travelers to avoid all visits to Chocó Department, except for Quibdó, Sanquianga and Telembi in Nariño, Urabá and Bajo Cauca in Antioquia and the southern side of Bolívar.

Official Travel Advisories

U.s. travel advisory.

The U.S. State Department urges citizens to “ Reconsider Travel ” to Colombia as it is currently under travel alert level 3. 

When issuing such an alert, the government means their citizens’ safety is compromised and “conditions” can change with little to no warning.

The agency is particularly concerned about extortion, kidnapping, homicide and terrorist attacks targeting local, tourist, and governmental venues.

Canada Travel Advisory

The Canadian government says violent armed robberies can happen in public transport, restaurants and shopping malls in Colombia. 

Kidnapping for ransom and petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse and electronic device snatching are also quite common. 

This government also reminds all travelers, not only Canadians, that there is an ongoing curfew targeting minors. Those under 18 years old are not permitted to wander alone between 7:00 pm and 5:00 am. They must be accompanied by legal tutors.

This restriction only applies to el Poblado, el corredor vial de la 33, La Plaza de Botero and La Veracruz church in Medellin.

Safety Tips for Colombia

Ensuring a safe trip to Colombia requires incorporating personal security practices when enjoying your holidays. Take these recommended actions for a risk-free visit. 

• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry. 
• Be careful when using smartphones, cameras and other electronic devices on the street. 
• Don’t carry high amounts of cash.
• Only use ATMs located inside banks and shopping centers.
• Never leave your beverages unattended. Drugging and robbing tourists is a common practice.
• Don’t share sensitive information with strangers, especially with Tinder dates.
• For the time being, avoid using dating apps such as Tinder until they are safe again.
• Don’t wander alone in remote or isolated areas, especially after dark. 
• Don’t visit regions deemed as “Do not travel” areas. (Check our section, “Areas to Avoid”)
• In case of an emergency, call the police at 123.

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Update January 10, 2024

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U.S. Visa: Reciprocity and Civil Documents by Country

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Reciprocity Schedule

Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee, number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.

Explanation of Terms

Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.

Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).

Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.

Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.

Visa Classifications

Country specific footnotes.

Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.

Visa Category Footnotes

The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:

• G-1 through G-4
• NATO 1 through NATO 6

An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident or national of a country without a treaty.  *When the spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status and are themselves a national of a country that does not have a treaty with the United States – the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principal alien’s country of nationality should be used.  **Spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 visa principal applicant, where the spouse and children are also nationals of a country that has a treaty with the United States – the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the spouse and children’s country of nationality should be used.  

*Example 1: John Doe is a national of Country A that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. however his wife and child are nationals of Country B which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as John Doe, the principal visa holder. **Example 2:  Mike Doe is a national of Country Y that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. however his wife and child are nationals of Country Z that also has a treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the reciprocity issued to nationals of Country Z.

The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.

Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.  

Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.

There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.

Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.

In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).

However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.

Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.

Canadian Nationals

Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.

Mexican Nationals

Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.

Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi, Libyan, Somalian, Sudanese, Syrian or Yemeni nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.

Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.

No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.

V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.

Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:

• T-2 (spouse)
• T-3 (child)
• T-4 (parent)

The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.

The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.

The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.

General Documents

Please check back for update.

Birth, Death, Burial Certificates

Fees: There may be a fee for obtaining a copy of the birth certificate.  Consult with the applicable civil registry office.

Document Name: Registro Civil de Nacimiento

Issuing Authority: The Civil Registry of the municipality or rural area in which the birth occurred.

Special Seal(s) / Color / Format:

• Birth Certificates have no security features, as they are copies of the book where the birth was registered (copia del folio).
• Copies are issued on plain white paper, and certified by the notary public or register’s office with an original signature over either a wet seal or a sticker.
• The parents’ names and ID numbers,
• Place of birth etc.),
• [SPM1] Date of registration,
• Witness or witnesses of the registration,
• Marginal Notes regarding parents’ marriage and divorce/s.

Issuing Authority Personnel Title:  Civil records are signed by the competent registry officials, called notaries or registrars.

Likewise, municipal mayors, police inspectors, chiefs or governors of indigenous councils (with prior authorization from the National Registry of the Civil Status), and Consuls of the Republic of Colombia carry out the registration function.

The digital version of the Civil Birth Registry document is signed by the National Director of Civil Registry who exercises custody of the data that rests in the National Civil Registry System.

Registration Criteria:  The National Civil Registry will register all births that occur in the national territory and births that occurred abroad of people born to Colombian fathers or mothers. In general, birth certificates include all the facts and acts related to civil status, such as recognition of children out of wedlock, legitimation of children, adoptions, and alterations of parental authority.

The birth must be registered within 30 days by presenting the Certificate of Live Birth or the nursing certificate, or the testimony of two witnesses present at the time of the birth.

Procedure for Obtaining:  Except for digital copies, the notarized duplicate of the birth certificate will only be issued at the notary office or registry office where the birth was registered. Consult the Civil Registry of the city/municipality where the birth took place for instructions on how to obtain a notarized copy of the birth registration.

Certified Copies Available: Yes. By default, all Colombian birth certificates are certified/notarized copies of the original. The original version is kept in the Civil Registry office of the city where the birth was originally registered.

Staring 28-SEP-2023, a digital copy of the Birth Certificate can be obtained on the National Registry’s website ( www.registraduria.gov.co ). These copies do not contain marginal notes about changes in civil status or any other changes that have been made. The Embassy accepts digital copies but may request certified copies of documents in some instances.

Alternate Documents:  Occasionally, the embassy requests a copy of a religious baptism to support civil records. If requested by the embassy, an applicant can obtain complete copies of baptism records from the church parish where the ceremony took place.

Exceptions: None

Comments:  When scanning non-digital Birth , Marriage, Divorce, or Death Certificates, make sure to include scans of the front and back of the civil documents, even if the back is blank. This ensures that the information on the back is submitted.

Death/Burial

Fees: There may be a fee for issuance of the death certificate.

Document Name: Registro Civil de Defunción

Issuing Authority:  The Civil Registry or the Notary office of the municipality or rural area in which the death occurred. 

• Death Certificates have no security features as they are copies of the book where the death was registered (copia del folio). Copies are issued on plain white paper and certified by the notary public with an original signature over either a wet seal or a sticker.
• Name and date of birth of the deceased person
• Place and date of death
• Parents’ and spouse’s information if applicable
• Name and address of the person registering the death, etc.

The digital version of the death certificate document is signed by the National Director of Civil Registry.

Registration Criteria:  The National Civil Registry will register all deaths that occur in the national territory, deaths that occurred abroad of people born in Colombia or adopted, the presumption of death declared by a competent judge, and the deaths of foreigners residing in the country who died abroad.

The death must be registered within two days by presenting a certificate issued by a forensics doctor or the medical doctor who attended the last illness. When there are no medical professionals available, the death can be registered with the affidavit of two witnesses.

Procedure for Obtaining:  Except for digital copies, the notarized duplicate of the death certificate will only be issued at the notary office or registry office where the death was registered. Consult the Civil Registry of the city/municipality where the death took place for instructions on how to obtain a notarized copy of the death registration.

Certified Copies Available: Yes.   By default, all Colombian death certificates are certified/notarized copies of the original. The original version is kept in the Civil Registry office of the city where the death was registered.

Staring 28-SEP-2023, a digital copy of the death certificate can be obtained on the National Registry’s website ( www.registraduria.gov.co ). These copies do not contain marginal notes. The Embassy accepts digital copies but may request certified copies of documents in some instances.

Alternate Documents: Religious records are not sufficient.  Occasionally, the embassy requests a copy of a religious funeral to support civil records. Only if requested by the embassy, an applicant can obtain complete copies of religious funeral records from the church parish where the ceremony took place.

Comments:  When scanning your Birth, Marriage, Divorce, or  Death  Certificates, make sure to include scans of the front and back of your civil documents, even if the back is blank. This ensures that the information on the back is submitted.

Marriage, Divorce Certificates

Fees: There may be a fee for obtaining a copy of the marriage certificate.  Consult with the applicable civil registry office.

Document Name:  Registro Civil de Matrimonio

Issuing Authority: Civil Registry of the municipality or rural area where the marriage occurred.

• Marriage Certificates have no security features as they are copies of the book where the marriage was registered (copia del folio).
• Copies are issued on plain white paper and certified by the notary public with an original signature over a wet seal or a sticker.
• Summarized marriage certificates are not acceptable. The embassy requires the "copia del folio" since it is a copy of the book itself and has all the information needed to verify a marital relationship.

The Civil Birth Registry document, in its digital version, is signed only by the National Director of Civil Registry.

Registration Criteria:  The National Civil Registry will register all civil marriages celebrated by a judge or a notary public. Religious marriages will also be registered.

Procedure for Obtaining:  Except for digital copies, the notarized duplicate of the marriage certificate will only be issued at the Notary Public, or the church of the municipality or rural area in which the marriage occurred. Consult the Civil Registry of the city/municipality where the marriage took place for instructions on how to obtain a notarized copy of the marriage registration.

Certified Copies Available:  Yes. By default, all Colombian marriage certificates are certified/notarized copies of the original. The original version is kept in the Notary Public, or the church of the municipality or rural area in which the marriage occurred.

Staring 28-SEP-2023, a digital copy of the marriage certificate can be obtained on the National Registry’s website ( www.registraduria.gov.co ). The Embassy accepts digital copies but may request certified copies of documents in some instances.

Alternate Documents:  The embassy requires a copy of the registered civil marriage for immigration purposes. Only if requested by the embassy, an applicant can present a religious marriage certificate to support civil records. The Catholic baptismal certificates always have a line for marginal notes. Usually, the marginal notes indicate if the person had been married under a religious ceremony. They are issued on official paper, letterhead paper of the church, or plain white paper signed and sealed by the issuing priest. To avoid fraud, the issuing priest's signature may be authenticated by the competent ecclesiastical or civil authority.

Comments:  When scanning your Birth, Marriage , Divorce, or Death Certificates, make sure to include scans of the front and back of your civil documents, even if the back is blank. This ensures that the information on the back is submitted

Divorce  

Fees: There may be a fee for obtaining a copy of the divorce certificate. Consult with the applicable family courthouse or notary office of the city/municipality where the divorce was declared.

Document Name: Certificado de Divorcio

Issuing Authority Personnel Title:

• Divorce decrees are issued by Notary Public or judges in the Family Court.
• Annulments are issued by the "Tribunal Eclesiástico" of the Roman Catholic Church.
• Both types of divorce decrees are  issued on plain white paper.
• Annulments are issued on letterhead paper.

Registration Criteria:  All divorces, whether civil or religious, must be registered with the civil authorities (“La Oficina de Registro Civil”) to be legal. Proof that the divorce was registered with civil authorities (either an annotated birth certificate or marriage certificate) is required in addition to the civil divorce decree or religious annulment decree.  

Divorce in civil and religious marriages, and annulments are completed by family and/or ecclesiastical courts.

For annulments of Catholic marriages, the annulment (cesacion de efectos civiles) must be determined by an ecclesiastical court and then recognized by a Family Judge. The embassy will accept an annulment issued by the "Tribunal Eclesiastico" as proof of an official annulment of marriage.  The Embassy also accepts certificates of civil annulments issued by the corresponding family court.

Procedure for Obtaining:

• The duplicate of a divorce will only be issued at the family courthouse or notary office where the divorced was declared. Consult the courthouse or notary office for instructions on how to obtain a notarized copy.
• The National Registry of Civil Status does not issue divorce certificates. However, divorce is among the legal acts that are registered in the civil birth registration in accordance with article 44 of Decree 1260 of 1970. Therefore, when a divorce occurs, it must be registered, and the change of marital status must be reflected and noted in the marginal notes of the birth certificate.

Certified Copies Available:  Yes. By default, all Colombian divorce certificates are certified/notarized copies of the original. The original version of the divorce is kept in the family courthouse or notary office where the divorced was declared.

Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents.

Comments:  When scanning your Birth, Marriage,  Divorce , or Death Certificates, make sure to include scans of the front and back of your civil documents, even if the back is blank. This ensures that the information on the back is submitted.

Divorce is legal in Colombia for both civil and Catholic marriages.

The U.S. Embassy in Bogotá requires the certified Divorce Decree/Annulment. The   birth or marriage certificate with the divorce annotation cannot replace the certified divorce.

Adoption Certificates

Fees: There may be a fee. Please consult with Instituto Colombiano de Bienestar Familiar (ICBF).

Document Name:   Certificación

Issuing Authority: Instituto Colombiano de Bienestar Familiar (ICBF)

Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: There is no special seal(s)/color/format.

Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Subdirector de Adopciones.

Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria.

Procedure for Obtaining: Please consult with Instituto Colombiano de Bienestar Familiar (ICBF) on the procedure for obtaining.

Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available.

Comments: None

Identity Card

Fees: No fees for initial issuance of the National ID card. There is a replacement fee for a lost or stolen card.

Document Name: Cédula de Ciudadanía

Issuing Authority: Registraduría Nacional del Estado Civil

Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: The cédula supplies the bearer’s name, DOB, blood type, biometrics, and National ID number.  It is yellow with security seals.

Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Registrador Nacional.

Registration Criteria: You must be 18 years old to obtain the Cédula de Ciudadanía.  Children 7 to 18 years old are issued a Tarjeta de Identidad.  Children under 7 years old use their Birth Certificate for identity purposes.

Procedure for Obtaining: Consult the Registraduría Nacional del Estado Civil’s website for procedures to obtain the National ID card.

Police, Court, Prison Records

Police certificates.

Available. Yes. To those 18 and older.

Fees: There are no fees.

Document Name: Certificado de Antecedentes Judiciales.

Issuing Authority: Ministerio de Defensa Nacional – Policía Nacional de Colombia.

Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: The police record can be printed from the Policía Nacional de Colombia website.

Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel.

Procedure for Obtaining: All applicants who are 18 years or older must provide a Colombian Police Certificate, called Certificado de Antecedentes Judiciales. Applicants may obtain police certificates online at  policia.gov Police certificates have a validity of one year. Colombians receive their permanent cédula (national ID) number when they turn 18; applicants younger than 18 are not required to obtain a Police Certificate.

Any applicant who has a police record that states "Actualmente no es requirido por autoridad judicial alguna" (in English, "currently not wanted by any judicial authority") must bring their complete court records, along with an English translation, to the embassy on the day of their interview. Applicants who fail to bring these court records and the English translation will be required to return to the embassy for a second interview.

Additionally, individuals who have lived in the United States without legal permission and/or applicants who unsuccessfully applied for asylum should obtain their report of entry and exits ("certificado de movimientos migratorios") from Colombia. Applicants can obtain this report from Migración Colombia at  migracioncolombia.gov.

If a third country national resides legally in Colombia, he/she can send the following documents by email, or they can go to the following address in person to request a criminal records certificate. This applies to applicants with or without foreigner identification cards (Cédulas de Extranjeria or C.E.): 

[email protected] Calle 26 # 75 – 25 Telephone: Bogotá (601) 5159111 ext 9112 – Outside Bogotá 018000 910112 

Third country nationals must present:  

• Copy of your valid passport’s bio data page including the entry stamps in it as evidence of legal entry into Colombia 
• A letter addressed to the Colombian National Police requesting the certificate with the requestor’s signature, mentioning Nationality, foreigner identification card number (only if you have Cedula de Extranjería), Passport number, personal email, phone number, and specify your reason for requesting the certificate (e.g. immigrant visa process), and to whom you will present the certificate (e.g. U.S. Embassy).  
• A copy of his/her foreigner identification card (Cedula de extranjería, if any), permanence special permit, if you don’t have one of the previous two requirements will be enough with a copy of your passport bio data page including the entry stamps in it as evidence of legal entry into Colombia.  
• A copy of your country-of-origin national ID. 

There is no charge for this process.  This process must be carried out in person.

Criminal record certificates are not issued to third country nationals who are unlawfully present in Colombia.  They must go to Migración Colombia and legalize their stay before the Colombian National Police will issue a certificate.

Comments: Please send a copy of the police certificate to the National Visa Center. 

Military Records

Available: To Colombian citizens over 18 years of age.

Fees: There may be fees.

Document Name: Military Carnets (Libreta Militar), First Class for those who have served with the armed forces and Second Class for those who have obtained an exception.

Issuing Authority: There is no issuing authority.

Procedure for Obtaining: There is no procedure for obtaining.

Passports & Other Travel Documents

Types Available (Regular, Diplomatic, Official, etc.): The Government of Colombia issues diplomatic, official, regular, border, collective, and provisional passports to Colombian citizens. All these different types of passports meet the requirements of section 212(a)(7)(B)(i)(I) of the INA.

Fees: Consult the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for passport fees.

Document Name: Passport

Issuing Government Authority: Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores

Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Regular passports are dark red and there is a security seal over the photo.  For citizens 18 years or older, the bio-page of the passport includes their national ID (cedula) number.

Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no specific issuing authority personnel title.

Procedure for Obtaining: Consult the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for how to obtain a passport domestically or overseas.

Exceptions: None.

Comments: When a Colombian citizen turns 18 years old, they are required to turn in their Tarjeta de Identidad (ID card for minors) and apply for their Cédula de Ciudadanía (national ID card).  Their national ID number is included on the passport bio-page.  Applicants who recently turned 18 years old must present a new, updated passport which includes their Cédula de Ciudadanía number for immigration purposes.

Border Passports:  are issued by the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Relations and the Colombian Consulates abroad to Colombian citizens who are at that moment in a border country with Colombia. These passports are only valid for the country where it was issued.

Provisional Passports:  are issued by the Colombian Consulates abroad to (a) Colombian citizens who are abroad and who are extremely poor, repatriates, or deportees, who have lost their documents and whose return to Colombia is imminent, (b) the son or the daughter of a Colombian citizen who was born abroad and whose nationality is not yet determined. (Provisional passports issued under the above circumstances are only valid to travel to Colombia), (c) Colombian citizens who have lost their documents or who, due to exceptional circumstances, cannot use their passport and whose return to Colombia is not (repeat not) imminent. (These passports are issued with a note indicating the countries to be visited and are valid for two months.

Other Documents Available: There are no other documents available.

Other Records

Not applicable.

• Visa Issuing Posts

Post Title: Bogota, Colombia  (Embassy)

Address: Carrera 45 No. 24B-27, Bogota, D.C., Colombia

Phone Number:

011 571-275-2000 - Embassy Switchboard

011 571-275-4545 - Consular Section Fax

011 571-315-2196/2197 - Fax

Visa Services: All visa categories for all of Colombia.

Comments / Additional Information : None

Visa Services

All visa categories for all of Colombia. As of January 2017, U.S. Embassy Bogota was designated the immigrant visa processing post for Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao Island applicants.

As of October 2017, U.S. Embassy Bogota was designated the immigrant visa processing post for Cuban applicants.

Additional Information for Reciprocity

• Reciprocity: What's New
• Temporary Reciprocity Schedule
• Country Acronyms
• Terrorist Designation Lists
• State Sponsors of Terrorism
• Treaty Countries

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Brunei Darussalam

Burkina Faso

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Congo the Democratic Republic of the

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Côte d'Ivoire

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Guinea-Bissau

Iran, Islamic Republic of

Israel, Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza

Korea, Democratic People's Republic of

Lao People's Democratic Republic

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Micronesia, Federated States of

Moldova, Republic of

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea

North Macedonia

Palestinian Authority

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Russian Federation

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten (Dutch part)

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Virgin Islands, British

Wallis and Futuna

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