Colombia Extends Free Passport Scheme to Vulnerable Citizens in 2026

The Colombian government will maintain a free‑passport program for 2026, allowing citizens who meet specific vulnerability criteria to obtain a passport at no cost. Eligibility includes individuals classified in the lowest tiers of the Sisbén poverty index (levels 1‑2 of the former system or groups A‑B of Sisbén IV) provided they also satisfy additional conditions. Other qualifying groups are people traveling abroad for specialized medical treatment, persons with disabilities (and their companions), adults over 62 travelling for health or family reunification, students under 25 enrolled in international educational institutions, children under ICBF protection involved in international adoption, workers with overseas contracts, and members of official sports, cultural, scientific or artistic delegations. The passport exemption aims to facilitate travel for medical, academic, labour, humanitarian or family reasons for those facing economic constraints, but Sisbén classification alone does not guarantee the benefit; applicants must demonstrate the relevant travel purpose and supporting documentation.