How to Report Lost Documents in Colombia: SIDEX System Guide

We have all felt that sinking feeling in our stomach when we touch our pocket and realize our wallet is gone. The immediate reaction of many colombians is to think: "I need to log into the Police SIDEX system to file a report for lost documents." However, if you do that today, you are going to hit a digital brick wall.

Quick answer: The National Police SIDEX system for reporting lost documents was deactivated in 2022. By law (Decree 19 of 2012), no entity can demand a police certificate to issue a duplicate. If you lost them by accident, you must process the duplicate directly; if they were stolen, you must file a criminal complaint on the "¡A Denunciar!" portal.

The end of the "SIDEX certificate" and the Anti-Red Tape Law

For years, the SIDEX system was the mandatory stop for anyone who lost their ID card or driver's license. But, to the surprise of many, the National Police deactivated this tool for simple losses on September 15, 2022.

The reason? Article 30 of Decree 19 of 2012 (known as the Anti-Red Tape Law) clearly establishes that no administrative authority can demand a report or certificate of loss to issue a duplicate. Your verbal or written statement under oath is legally sufficient. If you go to a bank or a notary and they ask you for the "SIDEX slip," they are breaking the rule.

Route 1: What to do in case of accidental loss (without a crime)

If you simply left your documents in a taxi or dropped them on the street, you do not need to report it to the Police. Your only step is to request duplicates from the corresponding entities (Registraduría, Ministry of Transportation, etc.).

Watch out for costs, because there are new rates for this year. According to Resolution 1500 of February 11, 2026, from the National Civil Registry, the current prices for duplicates are:

• Yellow ID card with holograms: $67,350 COP.
• Digital ID card (polycarbonate + digital version): $76,100 COP.
• Physical civil registry (copy): $10,800 COP.
• Online civil registry (copy): $18,750 COP.

I recommend making the payment via PSE on the official Registraduría website to speed up the process. Avoid street fixers who promise to get you the document faster at all costs.

Route 2: What to do in case of theft or identity theft

The story changes drastically if you were the victim of a robbery (theft) or if you suspect someone is using your identity to take out loans or scam people. In this scenario, it is mandatory to alert the authorities, but not through the old SIDEX.

You must file a formal criminal complaint through the official portal "¡A Denunciar!", managed by the National Police and the Attorney General's Office. This legal document is your protective shield if criminals try to use your name to commit fraud.

The "miracle" of recovered documents

Before paying for duplicates, I suggest making one last attempt. Many times, a good Samaritan finds a wallet and hands it in to a Police sector.

To check if your papers met this fate, the National Police has a tool called Query of Recovered Documents. You just have to enter the page, type your ID number, and the system will tell you if they are resting at a police station ready to be picked up.

Why your identity is key when offering services in Colombia

Having your documents in order is not just about avoiding fines; it is the foundation of trust if you work as a freelancer. When a client hires someone for a move or transportation, the first thing they want to know is who is going to enter their home.

In fact, according to active ads on Colombia Move (July 2026), there is currently just 1 active ad in the moving category.

If you have your ID card and license up to date, you can show your clients that you are a real professional. how to know if an ad is real in Colombia to better understand what users look for when trusting an online profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Can you still get the lost document certificate on SIDEX?

No, the National Police deactivated the lost document report on their website in September 2022. Decree 19 of 2012 prohibits entities from demanding this police support to process personal document duplicates.

❓ What do I do if an entity demands the loss report for a duplicate?

You must remind them that under Article 30 of Decree 19 of 2012 (Anti-Red Tape Law), your statement under oath is sufficient. No administrative authority can demand a loss report for a procedure.

❓ How much does a duplicate ID card cost in Colombia in 2026?

The duplicate of the yellow ID card with holograms costs $67,350 COP, while the digital polycarbonate ID card costs $76,100 COP. These are the current rates established by the Registraduría since March 1, 2026.

❓ How do I know if the Police found my lost documents?

You can access the official "Query of Recovered Documents" tool on the National Police website. By typing your document number, the system will indicate if it rests in any station for you to pick it up.

❓ What should I do if my documents were stolen and I fear identity theft?

You must immediately file a formal criminal complaint for theft through the virtual portal "¡A Denunciar!" of the Police and the Attorney General's Office. This legal document will serve as evidence in case of financial fraud or identity theft.