Exploring Brazil: Entry With Bolivian Id Possible?

Bolivian citizens can enter Brazil without a visa. They can use their ID card instead of their passport when travelling to Brazil. This is because Bolivia is an associated member of Mercosur, so its citizens can enjoy unlimited access to full members (like Brazil) and other associated members.

Can I enter Brazil with a Bolivian ID if I am a Mercosur member?

As a member of Mercosur, a Bolivian citizen can enter Brazil without a passport, as long as they have a national or state-issued Bolivian identity card that is in good condition, has not expired, and the holder is clearly recognisable in the photograph. However, there are conflicting reports on whether this is allowed in practice, and it is recommended to carry a passport in addition to the ID card.

Can I enter Brazil with a Bolivian ID if I am not a Mercosur member?

As Bolivia is a member of Mercosur, its citizens can enter Brazil with their ID card rather than their passport. This is also the case for the other full members of Mercosur (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay) and other associated members (Chile, Peru, Colombia and Ecuador).

Citizens of these nine countries (including Bolivia) may apply for the grant of "temporary residence" for up to two years in another country of the bloc. Then, they may apply for "permanent residence" just before the term of their "temporary residence" expires.

However, there are some conflicting reports on whether a Bolivian ID is sufficient to enter Brazil. Some sources state that a Bolivian ID is sufficient to enter Brazil, while others state that a passport is required. It is always recommended to carry a passport when travelling internationally, as this can help in case of unexpected events or emergencies.

In addition, as of 2025, a visa will be required for US citizens to travel to Brazil, regardless of the purpose of travel.

What are the requirements for a Bolivian ID to be valid?

To be considered valid, a Bolivian ID must adhere to the following requirements:

• It must be a green plastic standardized card.
• It must have microprinting that reads "ESTADO PLURINACIONAL DE BOLIVIA" in red, with "CÉDULA DE IDENTIDAD" written below.
• The photo of the subject must be digitized and integrated on the left side of the ID.
• A bar code must be placed on the lower left corner.
• The ID number must be in red and placed below the photo, preceded by "N°".
• The date of validity must be placed below the ID number.
• A watermark of the Bolivian coat of arms must be placed in the center within a circle.
• The signature of the subject must be at the bottom center.
• The right thumb fingerprint must be on the right side of the ID.
• The coat of arms watermark must be placed in the center within a circle.
• The signature of the Regional Director must be included.
• Information on the full name, date of birth, place of birth, marital status, occupation, and address must be listed.

The ID is issued by the SEGIP (SERVICIO GENERAL DE IDENTIFICACIÓN DE PERSONAL) National Identification Services. The Regional Director (Director Departamental) is the issuing authority personnel for this document.

How long can I stay in Brazil with a Bolivian ID?

Bolivian citizens can use their ID card when travelling to Brazil. As a member of Mercosur, Bolivia enjoys unlimited access to any of the full members (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay) and other associated members (Chile, Peru, Colombia and Ecuador) with the right to residence and work, with no requirement other than nationality.

Bolivians can live and work legally in Brazil under the Mercosur (and Associated Members) immigration agreement with no requirement other than being a citizen at birth or a naturalized citizen for over 5 years, and passing a background check.

Brazil is set to introduce a visa requirement for US citizens travelling to the country for tourism purposes from April 10, 2025.

Can I enter Bolivia with a Brazilian ID?

Brazilian citizens can enter Bolivia with a Brazilian ID card. Bolivia is an associated member of Mercosur, and Brazilian citizens can enjoy unlimited access to any of the full members (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay) and other associated members (Chile, Peru, Colombia, and Ecuador) with the right to residence and work, with no requirement other than nationality.

Brazilian citizens can live and work legally in Bolivia under the Mercosur immigration agreement with no requirement other than being a citizen at birth or a naturalized citizen for over 5 years, and passing a background check.

The ID card must be in good condition, must not have expired, and the holder must be clearly recognizable in the photograph.

Frequently asked questions