Background certificates
How do I get the Procuraduría background certificate?
The Procuraduría background certificate is generated free and instantly on its website. It shows whether you have recorded disciplinary, criminal, contractual or fiscal sanctions or disqualifications. You can also request it in person at its offices.
Independent guide by Colombia Move. Not a government website: the procedure itself is done on the official portal linked here.
- Cost
- Free
- How long
- Immediate online.
- Where
- Procuraduría General de la Nación · Online
- Last checked
- October 1, 2026
Who needs it
Anyone taking a public job or signing a contract with the State, and anyone an employer or a procedure abroad asks for it.
What you need
- Your ID document number.
- Answer the security question the system shows.
- In person: show your original ID document.
- For Colombian companies: the Chamber of Commerce certificate.
Step by step
- 1Go to procuraduria.gov.co, menu Atención y Servicios a la Ciudadanía, Certificado de antecedentes.
- 2Click Generar certificado de antecedentes.
- 3Choose your document type, enter the number and answer the security question.
- 4Download the PDF. If the recipient wants to check it, they can use the Verificar certificado option.
Tips and common mistakes
- If your name or cédula status is wrong, use the name-update option while generating the certificate; it syncs with the Registraduría once per day.
- To use it abroad, download the certificate and apostille it online with the Cancillería.
- If the system can't find your document, file a petition (derecho de petición) on the Procuraduría's online portal attaching your ID.
- In Bogotá you can visit the public service center at Carrera 5 No. 15-60, Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the Procuraduría certificate free?
- Yes, it's free both online and at the offices.
- Can a foreigner get the Procuraduría certificate?
- Yes, if you're registered with your Colombian foreigner ID. If the system can't find you, request inclusion via a petition.
- What does the disciplinary certificate show?
- Current sanctions and disqualifications recorded by the Procuraduría, including disciplinary, criminal, contractual and fiscal ones.
- How do I verify a Procuraduría certificate is genuine?
- The certificate page has a Verificar certificado option to validate authenticity.
Official sources
Checked on October 1, 2026. Fees and requirements can change; the official site always wins.
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