Visa-Free Entry To Bolivia: What You Need To Know

If you're planning a trip to Bolivia, it's important to understand the country's visa requirements. The visa policy for Bolivia is divided into three groups of countries: those that don't require a visa, those that can acquire a visa upon arrival, and those that need to obtain a visa before entering the country. The necessary documents and fees vary depending on which group your country belongs to. U.S. citizens, for example, are required to obtain a Tourist Visa, which can be purchased at any land or air border. This visa allows for stays of up to 30 days per trip, not exceeding 90 days per year, and costs $160 USD. It's important to have the necessary documentation, such as proof of a round-trip ticket, proof of lodging, and a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining. Additionally, some countries may require specific vaccinations, like the yellow fever vaccine, so be sure to research the requirements for your country of origin.

What are the visa requirements for US citizens?

US citizens are required to obtain a visa to enter Bolivia. This can be done at a Bolivian Embassy or Consulate in the United States or a neighbouring country, or at any land or air border. The visa costs $160 and is valid for 30 days, with the possibility to extend for up to 90 days per year. US citizens can apply for an extension through the Dirección General de Migración (National Migration Service), which has offices in most major cities.

To obtain a visa, US citizens must present:

• A valid US passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
• An International Certificate of Yellow Fever Vaccination.
• Proof of a round-trip ticket or confirmation of plans to depart Bolivia.
• Proof of lodging in Bolivia, such as a hotel reservation. If staying with Bolivian friends or family, a letter of invitation from the host may be required.
• Completion of the web-based registration process (SIGEMIG) prior to arriving in Bolivia.

It is important to note that the visa requirements for US citizens travelling to Bolivia may change, and it is recommended to check with the Bolivian Embassy or Consulate for the most up-to-date information.

What documents do I need to enter Bolivia?

To enter Bolivia, you will need a valid passport with at least six months' validity remaining. You will also need to obtain a visa. Most types of visas are only available at a Bolivian Embassy or Consulate in the United States or a neighbouring country. However, tourist visas can be purchased at any land or air border.

If you are a US citizen, you will need to secure a Tourist Visa ("Visa de Turismo") to enter Bolivia. This visa is valid for 30 days after it is issued and allows a stay of up to 30 days per entry. It costs $160 USD and can be paid in US or local currency upon arrival.

To apply for a Tourist Visa, you will need the following documents:

• Two passport photos
• A completed, printed, and signed visa application form
• A bank statement from the last three months
• A travel itinerary, including hotel reservations or a letter of invitation from someone with a domicile in Bolivia, authorised by the General Directorate of Migration (DIGEMIG)
• A round-trip ticket or proof of ongoing travel plans
• A Yellow Fever Vaccination certificate if you will be visiting high-risk endemic areas

If you are applying with children, you will also need to provide:

• Proof of the parental relationship, such as a birth certificate
• A notarised consent letter signed by both parents or legal guardians, authorising the minor to travel to Bolivia, including information about the trip, duration of stay, and details of the accompanying adult(s)
• An authorisation form for minors travelling alone or with only one parent
• Copies of the passports or identification documents of the parents or legal guardians
• Proof of financial means to support the minor during their stay in Bolivia

It is important to note that the visa process can vary depending on your nationality. The Bolivian government has divided the visa policy into three groups of countries. Some nationalities can enter Bolivia without a visa, while others can acquire a visa upon arrival for a fee. The final group needs to obtain a visa before arriving in Bolivia.

Can I get a visa on arrival?

Yes, you can get a visa on arrival in Bolivia, but it depends on your nationality. According to the Bolivia visa policy, if your nationality is eligible to acquire a tourist visa on arrival, you need to:

• Fill out the form 'Declaración Jurada de Solicitud de Visa'
• Have a passport with at least six months' validity
• Show proof of your yellow fever vaccine
• Show flight tickets for the round trip to and from Bolivia
• Show proof of address in Bolivia

Remember that your tourist visa allows you to stay up to 90 days in one year in Bolivia.

The countries that can have the visa on arrival for Bolivia are:

• Central African Republic
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Saint Tome and Prince
• United Arab Emirates

However, it's important to note that not all nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival in Bolivia. The Bolivian government has divided the visa policy into three groups of countries. Some nationalities can access Bolivia without a visa, while others need to obtain a visa before arriving in the country.

It's always recommended to check the latest travel advisories and visa requirements before planning your trip to Bolivia.

How long is a tourist visa valid for?

The validity of a tourist visa for Bolivia depends on several factors, including your country of origin and where you obtain the visa. Here is a detailed breakdown:

Tourist Visa Validity

The tourist visa for Bolivia is valid for a stay of up to 30 days per entry. This means that from the date of entry into Bolivia, visitors are permitted to stay for a maximum of 30 days within the country. It's important to note that this visa is typically valid for a single entry.

Annual Limit

While the tourist visa allows for a 30-day stay, there is an annual limit to the number of days one can stay in Bolivia as a tourist. Visitors are allowed a maximum of 90 days per year, with the possibility of extending their stay through the Dirección General de Migración (National Migration Service). This extension is especially useful for those who plan to explore Bolivia's rich culture and natural wonders for an extended period.

Visa Validity Period

The validity period of the Bolivia tourist visa refers to the time during which the visa can be used to enter the country. In most cases, the tourist visa is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. This means that travellers must enter Bolivia within 30 days of obtaining their visa. However, there are instances where the validity period can be longer. For example, the US Embassy in Bolivia mentions that the tourist visa is valid for up to 90 days per year, suggesting that the visa may be used for multiple entries within a year, as long as the total number of days spent in Bolivia does not exceed 90.

Obtaining a Tourist Visa

Tourist visas can be obtained at any Bolivian Consulate or Embassy, and they are also available at land or air borders. The cost of the visa is $160 USD and can be paid in US or local currency upon arrival. It's important to note that some countries fall under specific visa groups, and their requirements for obtaining a tourist visa may vary.

What are the different types of visas available?

The Bolivian government has classified countries into three groups, each with different visa requirements. Here is a breakdown of the different types of visas available:

Group 1 Countries

Citizens of Group 1 countries can enter Bolivia without a visa. They only need to present a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months and a valid immigration card at the border. Some countries in this group include:

• European Union member states
• Philippines
• Finland
• Brazil
• Russia

Group 2 Countries

Citizens of Group 2 countries must obtain a visa prior to arrival or upon arrival for a fee. Obtaining a visa at a Bolivian embassy or consulate in advance is free of charge. However, if obtained at the border, a fee will apply. Group 2 countries include:

• United States
• Israel
• China (including Macao and Hong Kong)
• Taiwan

Group 3 Countries

Citizens of Group 3 countries must obtain a visa in advance with special authorization from a Bolivian embassy or consulate. They cannot obtain a visa on arrival. Some Group 3 countries include:

• Iran
• Serbia and Montenegro
• St. Tome and Principe

Specific Types of Visas

Regardless of the group, there are different types of visas available depending on the purpose of the visit:

• Tourist Visa (Visa de Turismo): This is the most common type of visa. It is valid for up to ten years and allows stays of up to 90 days per year.
• Specific Purpose Visa (Visa de Objeto Determinado): This visa is for those conducting business, working, studying, or engaging in any non-touristic activity in Bolivia. It is valid for 30 days and can be converted into a residence visa.
• Transit Visa: Required for travellers passing through Bolivia en route to another destination, with a stay of no more than seven days.
• Bolivia Student Visa: Required for individuals planning to study in Bolivia. The validity depends on the duration of the course or study program.
• Residency Visa: For those planning to stay in Bolivia long-term (more than 90 days).

Frequently asked questions