With butterflies and national symbols: Gustavo Petro reveals the new Colombian passport
Colombian President Gustavo Petro unveiled the new passport design, emphasizing its production by the state and the enhancement of personal data protection for citizens.
During a public event at Plaza de Bolívar, Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced the launch of the new Colombian passport, indicating that it is ready for issuance. This revelation came unexpectedly during a speech about minimum wage, where Petro displayed the new passport to the audience. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has conveyed that the implementation of this new passport model will begin on April 1, 2026, marking a significant transition in Colombia’s passport production.
Petro articulated that one of the primary motivations behind the new passport design is to enhance the protection of citizens' personal data, which he referred to as the nation’s most valuable asset. He confirmed that the new passports will be produced entirely by the Colombian State, specifically through the National Printing Office, as opposed to relying on private companies, which had been the practice in the past. This shift reflects a growing commitment to safeguard citizens' information and ensure more secure document production.
In terms of design, the president elaborated that the new passport will feature national symbols and motifs, including representations of Colombia's rich biodiversity, such as butterflies. This design choice not only aims to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the passport but also to instill a sense of national pride among citizens. With the necessary technology and secure printing materials now in place, Colombia's new passport is poised to reflect both modernity and cultural identity, paving the way for future international travels while ensuring data security.