Obtaining Bolivian Citizenship: A Comprehensive Guide

Obtaining Bolivian citizenship is a complex process that requires careful attention to legal requirements and procedures. Bolivia, a captivating South American country, offers a range of attractions, from the majestic Andes to its unique nature and cultural heritage. For those seeking to become Bolivian citizens, there are several paths to consider. The most common methods include citizenship by birth, naturalization, and marriage to a Bolivian spouse. Each route has specific conditions and qualifications that must be met. Understanding these requirements is essential for a successful application.

Citizenship by birth

Bolivian nationality law also recognises citizenship by birth for those born outside Bolivia to at least one Bolivian parent. In this case, the child must be formally registered by diplomatic or consular officials in the Civil Birth Registry for Bolivia. For children under 12 years old, the presence of the child and both parents is essential at the time of registration. The birth certificate of the minor must be presented, along with the identification documents of the parents. If only one parent is Bolivian, they must carry their Bolivian identity card or passport. For children between the ages of 12 and 17, the same requirements apply, and they must also bring three passport-sized photographs with a white background.

For those over 18 years old, the process becomes more complex. The individual must submit their original birth certificate, along with their identity document and the identity card, passport, or birth certificate of their Bolivian parent(s). If the other parent is foreign, their identity document or passport must also be provided. There is an administrative cost associated with this process.

It is important to note that the process of obtaining dual citizenship for those born outside of Bolivia with one or more Bolivian parents can be challenging and may involve multiple steps, including obtaining the necessary documents, translations, and certifications, as well as communicating with the Bolivian embassy or consulate.

Citizenship by naturalisation

To obtain Bolivian citizenship by naturalisation, an individual must meet the following requirements:

• They must have resided in Bolivia for at least three years without interruption. This period is reduced to two years for those who are married to a Bolivian citizen, have Bolivian children, or have Bolivian foster parents.
• They must make an explicit and voluntary statement that they want to acquire Bolivian nationality.
• Their current residence must be legal.

The application process for naturalisation is outlined in the "Migration Law of 8 May 2013 and its Supreme Decree No. 1923 of 13 March 2014". Applications are processed by the General Directorate of Migration, and naturalisation is bestowed by resolution of the President of Bolivia.

It is important to note that the process of obtaining Bolivian citizenship is not easy, and it may take between 6 to 9 months for the procedure to be completed. The cost of processing the application ranges from 50,000 to 90,000 yen. All documents submitted as part of the application must be translated into Spanish and notarised.

In addition to the residency requirements, individuals may also qualify for naturalised citizenship if they have provided military or legislative service to Bolivia and have had legal residence in the country for a minimum of two years.

Citizenship via a Bolivian spouse

If you are married to a Bolivian citizen, you may apply for citizenship after residing in Bolivia for a minimum of two years. This is a reduced period, as other applicants for citizenship by naturalisation must reside in Bolivia for at least three years.

To apply for citizenship, you must make an explicit and voluntary statement that you want to acquire Bolivian nationality. You must also comply with the procedures contained in the Migration Law of 8 May 2013 and its Supreme Decree No. 1923 of 13 March 2014. Applications are processed by the General Directorate of Migration and naturalisation is bestowed by resolution of the President of Bolivia.

The following documents must be submitted:

• Passport (or birth certificate)
• Criminal record certificate
• A standard photo, as well as left and right profile photos taken in the state capital, La Paz
• Fingerprints of both hands

All documents must be translated into Spanish and notarised. The citizenship acquisition procedure requires that the person (or the whole family) resides in Bolivian territory. The procedure can take from 6 to 9 months. The cost of processing ranges from 50,000 to 90,000 yen.

If your marriage took place abroad, it must be registered at the Consulate of Bolivia to be valid in Bolivia. The marriage certificate must be certified by the Secretary of State where it was issued, as well as authenticated by the Department of State of the United States of America. It must then be translated into Spanish, and the Consulate General of Bolivia in Washington DC may perform this translation. The legalization and translation of the marriage certificate by the Consulate is mandatory.

Citizenship for children of Bolivian parents

Bolivian nationality law is regulated by the 2009 Constitution, which determines who is, or is eligible to be, a citizen of Bolivia. Bolivian nationality is typically obtained either by birth in Bolivia or by birth abroad to at least one parent with Bolivian nationality. Children born abroad to a Bolivian father and/or mother have the right to obtain Bolivian nationality. This condition is formalized by registering the children with a Bolivian consular representation.

Registration of children until 12 years old

If you are registering your child for Bolivian citizenship and they are under 12 years old, you will need to present the following:

• The birth certificate of the minor, original and apostilled by the corresponding Secretary of State.
• The minor must be present at the Consulate at the time of registration.
• The presence of both parents is essential. If both parents are Bolivian, they must carry their current identification document. If one parent is foreign, they must carry their passport or identity document.

Registration of children from 12 to 17 years old

For children between the ages of 12 and 17, the registration process is similar but with a few additional requirements:

• Birth certificate of the minor, original and apostilled by the corresponding Secretary of State.
• Presence of children is essential.
• Three passport-sized photographs with a white background.
• If both parents are Bolivian, they must carry their current identification document. If one parent is foreign, they must carry their passport or identity document.

Registration for over 18 years old

If you are over 18 years of age and seeking to obtain Bolivian nationality through a Bolivian parent, you must submit the following documents:

• Original birth certificate apostilled by the Secretary of State.
• Identity document that proves your identity.
• Identity card, passport, or original birth certificate of the Bolivian mother or father.
• Identity card, passport, or original identity document of the foreign mother or father (if applicable).
• Translation of the foreign birth certificate (if applicable).

Citizenship for military service

Obtaining Bolivian citizenship is not an easy procedure, but it is possible for those who have served in the military. Bolivia grants citizenship to those who have provided military service and lived in the country for a minimum of two uninterrupted years. This is part of the naturalisation process, which requires an explicit and voluntary statement that the foreigner wants to acquire Bolivian nationality.

To be eligible for naturalisation, applicants must comply with the procedures contained in the "Migration Law of 8 May 2013 and its Supreme Decree No. 1923 of 13 March 2014". Applications are processed by the General Directorate of Migration and naturalisation is bestowed by resolution of the President of Bolivia.

The citizenship acquisition procedure requires that the person (or the whole family) resides in Bolivian territory. The procedure can take from 6 to 9 months and costs between 50,000 and 90,000 yen. All documents must be translated into Spanish and notarised. The following documents must be submitted:

• Passport (or birth certificate)
• Criminal record certificate
• Photos (standard, left and right profile photos taken in the state capital, La Paz)
• Fingerprints of both hands

Bolivian nationality law is regulated by the 2009 Constitution, which determines who is eligible to be a citizen of Bolivia. Bolivian nationality is typically obtained either by birth in Bolivia or by birth abroad to at least one parent with Bolivian nationality. It can also be granted to a permanent resident who has lived in Bolivia for a given period of time through naturalisation.

Frequently asked questions