U.S. Citizen Alerts - Colombia

U.S. Citizen Alerts - Colombia

2/18/2025, 1:52:36 PM

*Location* : Chocó, Colombia *Event* : Members of the illegal armed group Ejército de Liberación Nacional (ELN), a U.S.-designated Foreign Terrorist Organiza tion, have announced an “armed strike” in Chocó Department beginning Tuesday February 18 at midnight and ending Friday February 21 at midnight. The ELN has said that no public activities will take place, public transportation will be closed, and civilians will be forced to remain indoors for the entire period. They have announced that citizens who go outdoors may be detained, imprisoned, or shot. *Actions to Take* : U.S. citizens should consider leaving Chocó Department as soon as possible due to the unstable security situation. If you are unable to leave, follow these precautions: * Secure drinkable water * Seek shelter and secure it to the best of your ability * Remain indoors * Do not confront guerillas or armed individuals * Maintain a high level of vigilance * Be aware of your surroundings * Keep a low profile. * Avoid crowds * Monitor local media for security updates. For additional information, please visit: https://co.usembassy.gov/security-alert-eln-announces-armed-strike-in-choco-department-february-18-21/

U.S. Citizen Alerts - Colombia

2/26/2025, 2:30:11 PM

*Social Security - Federal Benefits Services Visit* *Cali-Medellín-Bogotá-Pereira—March 10th-13th 2025* The U.S. Embassy in Colombia is pleased to announce that representatives from the Regional Federal Benefits Unit will visit Bogota, Cali, Medellin, and Pereira to offer services for U.S. Social Security and other federal benefits. *You don’t need to schedule an appointment for your visit. We will serve on a first come, first served basis. Please remember you must bring original documents as well as a photocopy of each document required.* If you wish to submit your Foreign Enforcement Questionnaire SSA 7162/7161 form, NO appointment is required. You may drop the form completed and wet signed during service hours at the above locations. *How to prepare for your visit* *Foreign Enforcement Questionnaire (FEQ):* FBU will accept the “proof of life” forms. These were mailed this year to individuals whose last two numbers of the Social Security Number under which they receive benefits ends with 00 through 49 and who have a mailing address registered in Colombia. *Application for Social Security Benefits:* For each applicant, bring an original and a copy of the birth certificate and U.S. passport. If applying for auxiliary benefits or survivor’s benefits as the spouse of a deceased beneficiary, bring the original and copy of the marriage and death certificate. *Application for Social Security Number Card:* For each applicant, bring an original and a copy of the birth certificate and U.S. passport, and completed form SS-5FS. For additional information, please visit : https://co.usembassy.gov/u-s-social-security-federal-benefits-services-visit-8/