Asset Seizure in Colombia 2026: What Can and Cannot Be Seized

## What is a seizure order?

A seizure order (embargo) is a precautionary measure that freezes a debtor's assets to secure payment of an obligation. Once a judge orders the seizure, the debtor cannot sell, encumber, or otherwise dispose of the seized asset.

It's ordered within collection proceedings (enforcing payment obligations) and can apply to real estate, bank accounts, wages, vehicles, and other assets.

Assets exempt from seizure by law

Colombia's General Code of Procedure states that the following cannot be seized:

• The current legal monthly minimum wage — income above the minimum can be seized up to 50%
• Social benefits (severance savings, service bonuses)
• Retirement pensions up to the legal minimum; the excess can be seized up to 50%
• The debtor's and their family's bed and essential household clothing and furniture
• Assets protected under an inalienable family estate (patrimonio de familia)
• Homes classified as social-interest housing (up to a certain value)
• State-owned public assets

Seizure of bank accounts

Bank accounts can be seized. The bank receives the court order and freezes the available balance up to the amount of the obligation.

If the account receives only wages, only the portion exceeding the minimum wage can be seized (up to 50% of the excess).

Seizure of real estate

1. The judge orders the seizure
2. It's recorded with the Public Instruments Registry Office — from that point the property cannot be sold or mortgaged
3. A sequestration is requested: a court-appointed custodian takes physical possession of the property
4. An appraisal is conducted by an expert
5. If the debt isn't paid, the property goes to auction

The process to lift a seizure

Full payment The most direct way. The debtor pays the obligation plus costs, and the creditor requests the seizure be lifted.

Substitution of the precautionary measure The debtor can offer another asset of equal or greater value — if the judge accepts, the seizure on the original asset is lifted.

Objections to the payment order If the debtor raises valid objections (payment already made, statute of limitations, offset), they can halt the enforcement and avoid the auction.

Procedural nullities If the seizure was carried out with procedural defects, its nullity can be requested.

The auction of assets

If the seizure isn't lifted and the debt isn't paid: 1. The asset is appraised by an expert 2. An auction is scheduled (at least 2 hearings) 3. The asset is sold to the highest bidder 4. The proceeds are applied first to costs, then to principal and interest 5. If the auction doesn't cover the full debt, the balance remains as an outstanding obligation

Do you have a seizure order on your assets or accounts and don't know how to respond, or are you a creditor looking to enforce a debt? Contact us for a review of your case.

Juri, our AI legal assistant, analyzes your specific situation. The initial review is free.