The Cédula de Extranjería is the official national identification card issued to foreigners who hold a Colombian visa valid for more than 90 days. It is one of the most important documents for anyone planning to live, work, invest, or legally remain in Colombia for an extended period.
This guide explains who needs it, how to request it, required documents, costs, processing times, and important tips—all based on current 2025 regulations.
1. What Is the Cédula de Extranjería?
The Cédula de Extranjería is a biometric identification card issued by Migración Colombia. It grants foreigners full legal identification within the country, similar to a national ID card issued to Colombian citizens.
What you can do with a Cédula de Extranjería:
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Open bank accounts
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Sign rental contracts and public services
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Register businesses or investments
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Enter into employment contracts
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Access the health system (EPS)
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Move freely within Colombia
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Perform any official or notarial procedure
It is essential for foreigners intending to stay long-term.
2. Who Is Eligible to Obtain It?
You must request a cédula de extranjería if:
✔ You hold a M (Migrant) visa valid for more than 90 days
✔ You hold an R (Resident) visa
✔ You hold a V (Visitor) visa valid for more than 90 days (only in specific categories)
Tourists and visitors with stays of 90 days or less are not eligible.
3. When Must You Apply?
You must apply within 15 calendar days after:
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Entering Colombia with your new visa, or
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Receiving a visa approval if you are already inside Colombia
Failure to comply may result in fines from Migración Colombia.
4. Step-by-Step Process to Obtain Your Cédula de Extranjería
Step 1: Have your Colombian visa issued and stamped (if applicable)
Make sure your visa is already:
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Approved
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Issued electronically
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Registered in the Migración Colombia system (usually automatic)
If your visa was issued abroad, stamp it in your passport upon entry.
Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
You will need:
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Valid passport (original)
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A copy of the visa (electronic PDF)
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Entry stamp (if applicable)
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Completed online form
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Payment receipt
If your personal information differs between documents, you must provide supporting certificates (translated and apostilled).
Step 3: Complete the Online Pre-Registration
Go to:
👉 https://www.migracioncolombia.gov.co
Search for “Registro de Extranjeros / Cédula de Extranjería”.
You must upload:
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Visa PDF
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Passport bio-page
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Entry stamp (if applicable)
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Photo (if requested)
Step 4: Schedule an Appointment
Choose the office closest to you:
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Bogotá
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Medellín
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Cali
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Barranquilla
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Cartagena
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Bucaramanga
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Pereira
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Santa Marta
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Others depending on availability
Appointments are usually available within a few days.
Step 5: Attend Your Appointment
During the appointment, Migración Colombia will:
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Verify your documents
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Capture your biometric data (photo, fingerprints, signature)
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Confirm your personal information
The process usually takes 15–20 minutes.
Step 6: Pay the Fee
For 2025, the official fee ranges between 190,000 – 230,000 COP, depending on the visa category.
Payment can be made:
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Online
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At the Migración Colombia office
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Via PSE or authorized banks
Step 7: Collect or Download Your Cédula
The cédula is typically ready within 5–10 business days.
Migración Colombia now offers:
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Physical pickup
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Digital download (in some cities, pilot phase)
5. How Long Is the Cédula Valid?
Your cédula remains valid for the same duration as your visa.
For example:
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M visa valid 3 years → cédula valid 3 years
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R visa (resident) → cédula does not expire, but must be updated every 5 years
6. Important Tips to Avoid Delays
✔ Make sure your visa appears correctly in the Migración system
Sometimes synchronization takes 24–48 hours.
✔ Enter your name exactly as it appears in your passport
Special characters can cause errors.
✔ Bring printed and digital copies of everything
Offices sometimes request additional verification.
✔ Do not wait until the last day
Fines for delays can be significant.
✔ Keep your cédula with you
You must carry identification at all times.
7. What If You Lose Your Cédula?
You must request a duplicate (duplicado) immediately through Migración Colombia.
The process is simple and costs approximately 160,000 COP.
Conclusion
Obtaining your Cédula de Extranjería is one of the most important steps after receiving a Colombian visa. It grants you legal identity, facilitates daily life, and ensures compliance with immigration regulations.
With the right documents, proper timing, and a clear understanding of the process, you can complete the application quickly and without complications.
If you want help preparing your documents, submitting your cedula application, or understanding your obligations in Colombia: 
Contact us or request an appointment for professional advisory services.