A Colombian digital identity card It is a modern version of the traditional document and has revolutionized the way citizens identify themselves in the country.
Available since December 2020, this electronic version facilitates access to services, increases security and speeds up processes, all directly from your cell phone.
In this article, we will show you step by step how to issue the Colombian digital banknote, what are its benefits and what you need to know to keep your identity always safe and accessible.
🧐 What is the Colombian Digital Banknote?
The digital card is an electronic version of the identity card issued by National Registry of Civil Status.
It does not replace the yellow banknote with holograms, but complements it, allowing secure authentication through:
- Facial recognition
- Electronic signature
- Online validation
- Access to public and private services
- Secure login to websites and apps
Since 2023, with version 2.0, it has also been possible to sign digital documents and carry out transactions securely — a feature that has further expanded the use of digital identity in the country.
🚀 Advantages of the Digital Banknote
Check out the main benefits:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| 🔑 Security | Protection with biometrics and facial recognition |
| 📱 Availability | Always accessible on your mobile phone |
| ⏳ Agility in procedures | Allows you to perform online services with less bureaucracy |
| ✅ Time saving | Avoids travel to physical headquarters |
| 📏 Government integration | It can be used on several official platforms without the need for a password. |
Furthermore, the digital note is constantly being updated to integrate with banking services, healthcare platforms and digital certification, expanding its use in everyday life.
🛠️ How to issue a Digital Certificate via cell phone
✅ Step 1: Identify whether it is a first copy or renewal
- First way: appear in person at a Registraduría office that offers the service.
- Renewal: the process can be started online with more convenience.
🌐 Step 2: Access the official website
- Visit www.registraduria.gov.co
- Navigate to “Service Portfolio”
- Click on “Identification and Citizenship Card”
- Choose “Digital Ballot” and follow the detailed instructions
💳 Step 3: Make the payment
- Current value: $55.750 COP
- Payment methods:
- PSE (online payment)
- Effecty
- People's Bank
- Super SPINS
Keep the receipt (digital or printed), as it will be required in the next steps.
📅 Step 4: Schedule your visit or attend in person
- If the system allows, schedule via the website
- If there is no availability, go in person 24 hours after payment with the receipt in hand.
Tip: Arrive early — some venues may experience high demand and queues.
🧹 Step 5: Collecting Biometric Data
At the Registraduría headquarters, the following will take place:
- Professional photography
- Digital signature
- Fingerprint
- Facial scanning
You must also provide a valid email address and mobile number for later activation of the card.
📧 Step 6: Receive the QR code for activation
After receiving the physical ballot (polycarbonate), you will receive a QR code by email.
- Important: This code expires in 48 hours, so don't delay in activating it!
If you miss the deadline, you must request a new activation through the official website.
📲 Step 7: Activate in the official application
- Download the digital ballot app:
- For Android: Google Play
- For iOS: App Store
Open the app, follow the facial recognition process and that's it: your digital card will be active.
❌ What if I lose my cell phone?
Don't worry, your digital ID can only be used after facial authentication:
- Notify the Registraduría of what happened
- Unlink your old device via the app or in person
- Reactivate on new device with QR
🔐 Tip: activate facial or fingerprint lock on your cell phone for more security.
🚀 What's new in version 2.0
As of November 2023, the latest version of the digital banknote includes:
- Document authentication
- Transactions with public and private entities
- Government notifications
- Validation of legal documents
- Automatic access to government services
The update is available in the app stores. It's fast and free!
📊 Curiosities and opinions
- More than 2 million downloads from the app
- Note from 4.2 stars on Google Play with over 30,000 reviews
- Suggestions for improvement include SMS wake-up option and optimizing facial validation in low-light environments
“Very modern and safe. There should be more recovery options for those who change devices.”
— user from Bogota
📆 Reinforcing:
- Store your QR code safely
- Activate within 48 hours
- Protect your phone with a password or biometrics
- Update the app whenever there are new versions
- Check the progress of the process on the Registraduría website
Don't waste time — digitize your identity and simplify your life! 🚀