Thanks to Resolution 12880 from Colombia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, minors no longer need to renew their passports when obtaining an ID card or reaching the age of majority. This change removes a previous requirement from Resolution 6888 of 2021, streamlining the process due to the Número Único de Identificación Personal (NUIP) introduced in 2004.
Resolution 12880, issued on December 12, 2024, by Colombia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, amends article 15 of Resolution 6888 from 2021. Previously, minors had to update their passports at age seven when applying for an ID card, or upon reaching majority when switching to a citizenship card, as their identification number changed.
Since 2004, however, the National Civil Registry has assigned the Número Único de Identificación Personal (NUIP) to minors upon registration in its database. This unique number remains constant throughout life, applying to both the ID card and citizenship card. Thus, passport updates are no longer required at those stages, easing access to travel documents.
This reform is part of a new passport issuance model aimed at streamlining procedures for citizens. Colombians can apply at the two Chancellery passport offices, six CADES and SuperCADES in Bogotá, or at governorates nationwide. Those who obtained passports after November 2017 can renew them online via www.cancilleria.gov.co.
While the update is not mandatory, foreign immigration authorities may require it under their internal laws. Travelers are advised to check beforehand to prevent issues.
