Expert: MRZ - 12/7/2009

Question
Marta!

I am 21 years old. I was born in Colombia. But i was adopted at one year old. I've been in the states my whole life living with white people. I do not speak spanish at all. I am now speaking with family in Bogota, Colombia. If i want to go down to Bogota, Colombia do i need a Colombian passport? I have a U.S. passport but no Colombian passport. I plan on staying down their with my family for about 3-9 months about. To learn the language culture and such. So, do i need a U.S. passport?? and is it possible to find a good job down their even though i only speak english?? A job for money while i'm down their, and for money to fly back later on.  

Answer
Hi Jordan,
You can fly in with your U.S. passport, with it you will get a tourist visa for 3 months. While in Colombia, you can then obtain an original copy of your birth certificate and with that get your Colombian cedula and passport. This would be the fastest way, if you get them in the U.S. it would take you about a year.
As far as a job, that is more complicated. I think your best bet would be to teach English. If you have anyother questions or need any help in the process, you can contact us at info@colombianpossibilities.com or call us at 703.652.3850.
Our agency also has a birth family search service, although I believe you have already found yours.
Thanks
Marta