Colombia’s Electrical Plug & Socket Standards

1. Plug Types:
   • Type A: Two flat, parallel pins (ungrounded). This is very common, especially in older buildings.
   • Type B: Two flat, parallel pins + a round grounding pin. This is the modern standard and increasingly common, especially in new construction and for appliances requiring grounding.
2. Voltage:
   • Standard Voltage: 110 Volts (V). This is the predominant voltage used throughout most of Colombia.
   • Frequency: 60 Hertz (Hz).
3. Key Points to Remember:
   • Compatibility: Outlets in Colombia physically accept plugs from North America (USA, Canada, Mexico), Central America, and Japan (which also use Type A and Type B plugs and 110-120V).
   • Voltage Check is Crucial: While the plugs might fit, ALWAYS check the voltage rating of your appliance/device (look for “Input:” or “AC Input:”):
     • If your device is rated 110-120V or 100-240V (dual voltage), it will work perfectly in Colombia. Most modern electronics (laptops, phone chargers, cameras) are dual voltage.
     • If your device is rated only for 220-240V (common in Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia), it will NOT work with Colombian 110V outlets and could be damaged if plugged in without a step-down transformer. It might also require an adapter for the plug shape.
   • Adapter Needed For:
     • Type C (Europlug): Two round pins. Common throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, parts of South America. Requires a Type A/B adapter.
     • Type G (UK): Three rectangular pins. Requires a Type A/B adapter.
     • Type I (Australia/NZ/China): Two slanted pins +/- grounding pin. Requires a Type A/B adapter.
     • Type F (Schuko): Two round pins + side grounding clips. Requires a Type A/B adapter.
   • Regional Variation (Less Common): A very small number of locations (sometimes specific buildings or older installations) might have 220V outlets, often using Type A/B or sometimes European-style outlets. Never assume 220V is present. Stick to the 110V standard unless you have explicit confirmation for a specific outlet.

Summary & Advice for Travelers:

• Bring Type A/B plugs. Your North American devices will plug in physically.
• CRITICAL: Verify your device voltage. If it’s dual voltage (100-240V), you’re fine. If it’s only 220-240V, you need a step-down transformer (heavy/bulky) or cannot use it. A simple plug adapter will not solve the voltage difference.
• Recommended: Bring a few Type A/B plug adapters if your plugs are different (e.g., European Type C). These are small, cheap, and readily available.
• Grounded Devices: If your device has a grounding pin (Type B), look for outlets with the grounding hole. An adapter that adds grounding might be useful in older locations with only Type A outlets, but often isn’t strictly necessary for safety with double-insulated devices.