Expert: MRZ - 10/5/2009

Question
QUESTION: I was born in Colombia but am now a US citizen. I will be going back after 33 years.  Do I need to also get a Colombian passport to enter and will I have problems leaving the the country if I do not have a Colombian passport.

ANSWER: Hi Maria,
Colombian law requires all Colombian born folks to identify themselves with Colombian ID's while traveling in the country, therfore they are requiring Colombian passports, however, many of our clients, who find themsleves in the same situation as you, coming back after many years, are showing a letter when entering the country saying that you will be getting the passport during your trip. I assume you do not have a cedula either?
Let me know and I will be able to guide you in the process. You can reach me at info@colombianpossibilities.com
Thanks
Marta

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: No,  i do not have a cedula.  Why do I need a letter, can't I just tell them I will be getting a passport in Cplombia?
Also If I don't get the passport in Colombia because I do not have my birth certificate(say I can't find them) and I explain this to them, will I have difficulty leaving the country?

Thanks for your time,
Maria

Answer
Hi Maria,
Sorry for the delay in my answer. A letter is just more 'official' and carries more weight. You can just tell them verbally if you wish.
You cannot get a passport without a cedula, so you must process your cedula first. The problem there is that you will not get a permanent cedula right away, you have to apply for it and you will get a temporary one (called a contrasena) at first, 12 months later you will get your permanent one. Since you are over the age of 25, you cannot get a passport with a contrasena. You can get your birth certificate in Colombia with your birth date and place of birth, if you need help with that part, we will be happy to assist. You can reach us at info@colombianpossibilities.com
Thanks
Marta