General information only, not legal advice. Procedures differ by city and change over time. In an emergency, call 123. Last reviewed October 2026. This article was written with AI assistance and checked against official sources, as explained in how we create our content.
If something goes wrong in Colombia, such as a theft, an accident or a dispute, knowing who to call and what to document makes a big difference. This guide covers the basics for foreigners.
Emergency Numbers
| Number | Use |
|---|---|
| 123 | The national emergency line, free and available 24 hours a day, for police, ambulance, fire and other emergency services |
| 155 | A 24-hour line offering guidance to women who are victims of violence |
| 106 | A mental health support line. See mental health resources for expats |
The police warn that misusing emergency lines, for example through prank calls or false reports, can delay help for real emergencies and can lead to fines or warnings.
Reporting a Crime
- Move to a safe place and call 123 if you or someone else is in danger.
- Note what happened: time, place, descriptions and any witnesses.
- File a report with the authorities. Many reports can be filed through the police or the prosecutor’s office, and some can be started online.
- Ask for a copy or a case number. You will need it for insurance claims and, if your passport is stolen, for your embassy.
- Block stolen cards and phones immediately with your bank and operator. See opening a bank account in Colombia.
Lost or Stolen Passport
Contact your embassy or consulate for an emergency or replacement document, and keep your police report. If you hold a Colombian visa, tell Migración Colombia about the change in your passport. See getting and renewing residency.
Accidents
If there is an injury, call 123 and stay at the scene. For traffic accidents, wait for officers before moving vehicles when required, exchange insurance details and photograph the scene. See driving in Colombia.
Finding Legal Help
For complex issues, hire an independent lawyer with a professional card and relevant experience. See legal resources in Colombia. Your embassy can provide a list of local lawyers and can help in serious situations, such as arrest, but cannot give legal advice or pay your costs.
If You Are Detained
Stay calm, ask to contact your embassy and a lawyer, and do not sign documents you do not understand. Do not offer money to officials.
Avoiding Problems
- Keep copies of your passport and visa separate from the originals.
- Use registered taxis or ride apps at night.
- Be careful about accepting drinks from strangers.
- Know your neighborhood. See neighborhood guides and safety tips for travelers.
FAQ
Q: What is the emergency number?
A: 123.
Q: Can I file a report in English?
A: Often with difficulty. Bring a Spanish speaker if you can.
Q: Do I need a report for insurance?
A: Often yes, so ask for a copy or case number.
I’m Luciana, a travel writer from Bogotá, Colombia, and yes, I know exactly what it’s like to be a solo female traveler in a country the world still misunderstands.
I’ve been travelling independently for 10 years, completing 50+ solo trips across Colombia, Mexico, Central America, Argentina, Peru and the United States. I write in both English and Spanish, and I also contribute to allaboutcolombia.com where I cover my home country in depth — from the coffee region to the Caribbean coast to the Andes.
My speciality is Latin America: the neighbourhoods the guidebooks skip, the buses that are actually fine to take, the hostels that feel like home, and the restaurants where locals actually eat. I’ve hitchhiked across Patagonia, navigated Medellín’s metro system at rush hour, and camped solo in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. I know this region the way you only can when it’s yours.
I also cover the US for solo travelers, having spent time road-tripping through the Southwest, the Pacific Coast and the Deep South.
