Colombia’s government has decreed a quarantine in response to the coronavirus pandemic that is in force until at least April 26. Municipal governments have announced additional compulsory measures to prevent the spread of the virus.
If you’re a foreign migrant or resident in Colombia, violation of the quarantine may lead to sanctions, including an eventual expulsion, from Migration.
It is important to realize that we, foreigners and Colombians alike, are in this together. Possibly more important than abiding by the law is to be a good neighbor and lend a helping hand when you can.Contact with embassyWhile Colombia’s government has its hands full dealing with the crisis, your government is responsible for their citizens living abroad.
For this reason, many embassies have asked their citizens to register. It is important to keep an eye on your embassy’s recommendations and tips, for example through their social media accounts.
Your embassy in Colombia
Emergency numbersThe Colombian government has opened an emergency numbers where you can report yourself if you believe you may have been infected by the coronavirus.
This emergency number is 192, which you can call from both a landline and a cellphone.
The emergency number for victims of domestic violence is 155.
Any other kind of emergencies can be reported calling 123.
If your Spanish is not good enough to communicate with the emergency operators, call your embassy.National quarantine measuresThe national government’s quarantine applies to everybody in the country, with the exception of those working in crucial industries.
The current quarantine will last at least until April 26. If Congress approves, it may be extended.During the quarantine, one individual per household may leave his or her home or hotel to:
- Go to the grocery store to buy food
- Go to the pharmacy to pick up medicine
- Walk a pet for 20 minutes in the vicinity of one’s residence
- Access emergency services, including veterinarians
- Attend a necessary medical appointment
- Visit an ATM or bank to access financial services or get a notary
- Take a licensed taxi or public bus when necessary to leave the house for one of these approved reasons.
Foreigners are allowed to travel only if this is part of a repatriation process coordinated by their embassy.
The use of masks is obligatory in all public transport.
https://colombiareports.com/coronavirus-information-for-immigrants/?fbclid=IwAR2eMA08GpTD-pVs9fUMG4B6anJH5ALbn2uLGyCzBkxVHeMax6Fqi_3w_Cg