bolivian tourist visa requirements

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Do I need a visa to travel to Bolivia?

Dec 20, 2023 • 4 min read

It's easy to get a visa for Bolivia and experience its amazing landscapes © Anton Petrus / Getty Images

With its sensational national parks, beguiling cities, rich Indigenous culture and dramatic landscapes – ranging from towering Andean mountains and high-altitude lakes to shimmering salt flats and dense Amazonian rainforests – Bolivia is a magnet for travelers from across the globe.

Deciding to visit is easy, but the logistics of getting into the country can be a little trickier. Here’s our handy guide to the entry requirements for Bolivia, including information on tourist visas, how to extend your stay, and how to apply to work or study in the country.

Which nationalities need a visa for Bolivia?

Here’s the good news – Bolivia’s entry requirements are simple and pain-free for most visitors. Many nationalities don’t require a tourist visa; instead, you'll get a free entry stamp valid for a 30-day stay on arrival at any of Bolivia's international airports or land border crossings. US citizens are required to apply for a visa. 

The list of countries granted visa-free entry includes the UK, most EU and European Economic Area countries, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and much of South America. Contact your local embassy or consulate for more information.

Citizens of the US (and some other countries) need to apply for a visa

Citizens of the US need a pricey tourist visa to visit Bolivia. Visas cost US$160, but they allow holders to stay for up to 90 days per year, and they're valid for 10 years. 

In theory, these visas are available on arrival, and can be paid for in either US dollars or bolivianos (the Bolivian currency), but some airlines will refuse to let you board your flight unless you already have a tourist visa.

It’s always advisable to get a visa in advance. You can apply online via the Bolivian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website or at the Bolivian embassy in Washington DC (or via your local Bolivian embassy or consulate).

Travelers from China, India and Taiwan have to pay for a 30-day visa on arrival in Bolivia (up to US$160), while citizens of some Asian, African and Middle Eastern countries need to get "official permission" from Bolivia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs before traveling. Contact your local Bolivian embassy or consulate for more information.

Additional regulations for entering Bolivia

Whether you require a tourist visa or not, your passport must be valid for six months beyond the date of entry into Bolivia. Visitors under the age of 18 traveling without their parents will need written parental consent authorized by their local Bolivian embassy or consulate.

You may also be asked to prove you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Bolivia – showing a credit or debit card will normally suffice. Avoid displaying any cash, as this could prompt a request for a bribe.

Carry your identity documents while in Bolivia

Officially, travelers should carry their passport and tourist visa with them at all times while traveling in Bolivia. The safest policy is to carry photocopies, rather than the originals – petty theft is common, and losing your passport will open up a whole world of hassle.

The exception to this rule is when you’re passing close to any of Bolivia's land borders. The authorities are skittish about illegal border crossings and you should keep your real passport and visa on your person at all times, even if you’re not actually crossing over into a neighboring country.

Health restrictions for Bolivia

If you’re traveling into Bolivia from a country with endemic yellow fever – such as Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay and Peru – you may need to show a yellow fever vaccination certificate on arrival. You may also be asked for a yellow fever vaccination certificate when traveling to areas of Bolivia below 2500m (8200ft) in altitude, including the Amazon Basin .

Watch out for "administration fees" at land borders

Officials at remote border crossings may ask you for an unofficial "administration fee" – essentially a small bribe – to process your entry into the country. There's no legal basis for this, but it's hard to avoid. In general, the easiest policy is simply to pay the "fee" and go.

How to extend your stay in Bolivia

If you want to stay in Bolivia for longer than the standard 30 days, just head to the immigration office in the nearest large city at least a week before it expires.

 You can extend your entry stamp for an additional 30-60 days for free by visiting the office in person, but the maximum time travelers are permitted to stay in Bolivia in any given year is 90 days. 

Don’t overstay – if you do, you’ll face a fine at the airport, border crossing or immigration office, and there will be a mountain of bureaucracy to deal with. You may also be barred from re-entry in future.

Working and studying in Bolivia

If you want to work or study in Bolivia, you must apply for a special class of visa and meet a complex range of criteria. Applying usually involves support from an employer or educational establishment in Bolivia. Contact your local Bolivian embassy or consulate to find out more about how to make an application.

This article was first published February 2022 and updated December 2023

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Travel Advisory June 6, 2023

Bolivia - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise increased caution in Bolivia due to civil unrest. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to:

• Chapare region due to crime .

Reconsider travel to:

• Yungas region due to crime .

Country Summary:  Demonstrations, strikes, and roadblocks can occur at any time in Bolivia. Demonstrations can result in violence. Roadblocks and strikes may cut off traffic and restrict the flow of goods and services around the country. Domestic and international flights may be delayed or unexpectedly cancelled.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Bolivia.

If you decide to travel to Bolivia :

• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Contact your airline or travel agency prior to travel.
• Avoid demonstration and crowds.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook ,  Twitter , and  Instagram .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Bolivia.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Chapare Region: Do Not Travel

Due to a high level of violent crime , the U.S. government is limited in its ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Chapare region. U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel there.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Yungas Region: Reconsider Travel

Organized criminal groups near Corioco and Carnavi in Yungas have committed carjackings and robberies . The U.S. government is limited in its ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Yungas area. U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel there.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Six months (as of entry date into the country).

One page per stamp.

Yellow Fever.

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy La Paz Avenida Arce 2780 La Paz, Bolivia Telephone: + (591) (2) 216-8000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: + (591) (2) 216-8000 Fax: + (591) (2) 216-8111 Email:  [email protected]

United States Consular Agency, Santa Cruz, Bolivia Edificio Empresarial Equipetrol, 4 th Floor Intersection of Av. San Martin and Av. Las Ramblas Equipetrol Norte Santa Cruz, Bolivia Telephone: + (591) (2) 216-8000 Emergency after-hours telephone: +(591) 2-216-8000 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Bolivia for information on U.S.-Bolivia relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

All U.S. citizens visiting Bolivia are required to obtain a visa. Most types of visas are only available at a Bolivian Embassy or Consulate in the United States or neighboring country. Tourist visas can also be purchased at any land or air border. U.S. citizens who wish to extend their initial 30-day stay can apply for an extension through the Dirección General de Migración (National Migration Service), which has offices in most major cities. Visit the  U.S. Embassy in Bolivia  website for the most current visa information.

Entry Requirements:

• Valid U.S. passport with at least six months validity remaining.
• International Certificate of Yellow Fever Vaccination.
• With a visitor visa, you may stay 30 days per trip, not to exceed 90 days per year. A Bolivian visitor visa costs $160 US and can be paid in U.S. or local currency upon arrival. 
• Visitors must show proof of a round-trip ticket or confirmation of plans to depart Bolivia. 
• Visitors must provide proof of lodging in Bolivia including the address of the accommodation. If you are staying with friends or family, authorities may require a letter of invitation from the host.
• If you purchase a visa at the airport, you will be required to provide a photocopy of your passport biographic page.
• If you plan to work, study, volunteer, or conduct business in Bolivia, you must apply for a separate visa.
• Make sure you get entry and exit stamps from the Bolivian authorities every time you enter or leave Bolivia.
• If you received the Bolivian visa at a land border or entry port and you lose your passport, you will need to get a new visa and pay the $160 US visa fee to leave the country.
• If you obtained your Bolivian visa at the Bolivian Embassy/Consulate in the United States and you lose your passport, you will need to get an exit stamp but will not be required to pay the visa fee. 
• Bolivian citizen minors traveling alone or with only one parent who have remained in Bolivia for over 90 days must obtain authorization from the non-traveling parent or parents to leave Bolivia and may be required to present the original birth certificate.  For more information, please contact the Embassy . 

Dual Nationality : Upon entering and/or exiting Bolivia, U.S.-Bolivian citizens may be required to show a valid Bolivian identity document, such as a Bolivian cedula de identidad.

HIV Restrictions:  The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents of Bolivia. 

Find information on  dual nationality,   prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Chapare and Yungas Regions : Organized criminal groups near Coroico and Carnavi in Yungas have committed carjackings and robberies. Additionally, government authorities have used force in past confrontations with residents over coca eradication, and pro-coca groups may attempt to target U.S. interests.  Contact the Embassy  before traveling to these regions.

Crime : Pick pocketing and petty theft are common.

• Express kidnappings, in which tourists are robbed and forced to withdraw money from ATMs, occur infrequently in La Paz. Use only marked (radio) taxis and don’t travel alone, particularly late at night or if you’re under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
• Avoid Coronilla Hill in Cochabamba  next to the main bus terminal, due to crime.
• Use caution if you plan to travel from Copacabana to La Paz by bus.  Arrive during daylight hours if possible, verify the final destination, and buy tickets directly at the bus terminal.
• Be aware of impostors.  Organized criminal groups sometimes pose as police with the intent to rob foreigners. It is also a common scheme for criminals to pose as a crime victim, only to rob an unsuspecting bystander.
• Theft of bags, wallets, and backpacks are a problem, especially in tourist areas and on overnight buses. Thieves sometimes distract victims by spraying water on their necks or placing a substance on their bags, and trick them into giving up their bags. Never leave personal items unattended.

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
• Avoid roadblocks or public demonstrations.
• Consider the possibility of flight disruptions.
• Take extra food, water, and warm clothing on road trips. Roadblocks may occur without warning and could strand you for several days.

Messages regarding demonstrations, strikes, and weather-related events are posted on the  Embassy’s website .

International Financial Scams : See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Victims of Crime :

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Report crimes to the local police at  110  and contact the U.S. Embassy at  +591 (2) 216-8000. After working hours: +591 (2) 216-8000.  The National Tourism Police provides free assistance in English to tourists. Contact the La Paz office at  800-14-0081 . Contact the Cochabamba office at  +591 (4) 450-3880. In the city of Santa Cruz, contact Interpol at  +591 (3) 349-7720.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence : U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties : You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Bolivian authorities are  generally  required to press official charges within 24 hours of arrest, and to release a detainee within 48 hours if no formal charges are brought. However, investigative and pre-trial periods may drag on  indefinitely .

Bolivian law allows law enforcement officials to detain any foreigner pending proof of legal status in country (i.e. passport, visa, or residency card). Though this is rarely enforced, anyone who cannot produce proof of legal status may be detained until legal status is confirmed.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

In Bolivia, you may find products made with wild plants and animals. Many of these products could involve protected or endangered species, whose sale and export are illegal. Any protected species that is sold or transported, either live or transformed into food, medicinal beverages, leather, handcrafts, garments, etc., could be seized by Bolivian authorities. Some products, including live animals, require special permits when leaving Bolivia. Knowingly importing into the United States wildlife or plants that were taken from the wild or sold in violation of the laws of Bolivia (or any other country) violates U.S. law.

Arrest Notification : If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

• Under Bolivian law,  suspects can be detained for up to 18 months  without formal charges during an investigation, and the detention period could be extended beyond 18 months.
• Legal cases often drag on for years.

Mountain Trekking and Climbing Safety : Many popular trekking routes in the Bolivian Andes are at 16,000 feet or higher. Regardless of medical history or physical fitness, you may experience significant health issues due to the high altitude. Exercise extreme caution when trekking or climbing in Bolivia.

• Trekkers must have adequate clothing and equipment, not always available locally, and should be experienced mountain travelers.
• Don’t trek alone . Join an organized group and/or use a reputable firm to obtain an experienced guide and porter.
• If you develop a severe headache, weakness, vomiting, shortness of breath at rest, cough, chest tightness, or unsteadiness while climbing, descend to a lower altitude immediately, and consider seeking medical attention.
• Trekkers and climbers should purchase insurance that covers emergency services such as medical evacuations.
• Satellite communication and internet connectivity can be limited or non-existent. Inform family members of your plans and note that you may not be reachable for extended periods.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods : Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  The Bolivian constitution prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Bolivia.

See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: Bolivian law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities, and the law is unevenly enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. The most common types of accessibility issues may include accessible facilities, information, and communication/access to services/ease of movement or access. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure, and common in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  Bolivia has one of the highest domestic violence rates against women in South America. A very high percentage of women in Bolivia have experienced intimate partner violence. See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

COVID-19 Testing:  Numerous private and public clinics throughout Bolivia offer COVID-19 testing. For a comprehensive list of COVID-19 testing centers, please visit our medical assistance page . 

The designated government agency regulating COVID-19 testing in Bolivia is the Servicio Departamental de Salud (SEDES). There are 9 branches of SEDES in the 9 Departments of Bolivia.

• The first step is to contact SEDES for evaluation at 800-10-2930.
• Antigen and RT-PCR tests are both widely available. The two available tests are the Quick Test and the PCR test.
• The tests are available at most private labs and in some hospitals.
• The price for an Antigen test is around 150bs. The cost for a RT-PCR test is approximately 450bs.
• COVID-19 tests results can be issued by email, text messages or physical copies.

COVID-19 Vaccines: The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizens to receive in Bolivia. Visit the FDA's website to  learn more about FDA-approved vaccines  in the United States.  

Medical care in large cities is adequate, but of varying quality. Medical facilities are generally not equipped to handle serious medical conditions, and risk of infection is high. Emergency medical care outside of large cities, in rural areas, and inside national parks is inadequate.

For emergency services in Bolivia, dial 110.

Ambulance services are not widely available and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. 

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.

Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance : Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on overseas insurance. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging along with your doctor’s prescription. 

Vaccinations: Be up to date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. 

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health facilities in general:

Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery:

Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information on Medical Tourism.

Pharmaceuticals:

Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the  Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy:

If you are considering traveling to Bolivia to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad   page .

Water Quality:

In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Many cities in Bolivia, such as La Paz, are at high altitude. Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes .

Adventure Travel:

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel.

The following diseases are prevalent in Bolivia: 

• Dengue  
• Yellow Fever
• Chikungunya
• Zika  
• Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Bolivia.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Use extreme caution when driving on roadways. Few highways have shoulders, fencing or barriers, and lane markings are minimal. Even when lanes are marked, it is common for drivers to disregard them.

• Although La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Cochabamba are connected by highways, most roads in Bolivia are unpaved.
• Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended for trips outside major cities.
• Travel during the rainy season (November-March) is difficult, as most routes have potholes, and roads and bridges may be washed out.
• Other dangers include poor maintenance and overloaded vehicles, lack of lights on some vehicles, and intoxicated or overly tired drivers, including commercial bus and truck drivers.
• Stop signs are rare, and drivers commonly disregard red lights, particularly at night.

Traffic Laws: Most drivers lack formal training. Maintain situational awareness on the roads and employ defensive driving skills.

• Drivers do not normally yield to pedestrians.
• If you are involved in a traffic accident , stay at the scene until local police arrive. Leaving the scene is illegal under Bolivian law. The police may assess a percentage of fault to you relative to their assessment of your responsibility for the incident.

Public Transportation:  

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

• Avoid taking unlicensed taxis, and use radio taxis whenever possible.
• The majority of intercity travel is by minibus, with varying levels of safety and service. Bus accidents are responsible for death and severe injuries.  

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Bolivia’s Civil Aviation Authority to be in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Bolivia’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Bolivia .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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• Tourist visa

TOURIST VISAS

Requirements: .

• Fill out the Visa Affidavit form
• A 2 "x 2" passport size photograph
• Valid passport with at least 6 months of validity
• Copy of the hotel reservation or letter from friends or family indicating the address where you will be staying, sketch of address of the address, invoices of the last three months of basic services (water, electricity, telephone) that are in your name, contract of current rent, other related. (If the invitation is from a family member or friend, it must be personal, the institutional invitation is for a specific object visa).
• Round trip ticket or copy of the travel itinerary.
• Economic solvency test. Bank statement. In the case of Minors, the requirement of Economic Solvency will be the corresponding one by the parents or guardians. 
• For the cost of the visa application please click here
• The visa can be obtained at any Consulate of Bolivia

AFFIDAVIT OF VISA APPLICATION 

• Determined Object Visa
• Student visa
• Multiple Visa
• Official / Diplomatic Visa
• Courtesy Visa
• Humanitarian Visa

• Make sure the information in the Sworn Statement is the same as in the passport.
• Make sure all the requirements listed above show the name of the applicant.

INSTITUTIONAL LINKS

Servicio de Registro Cívico Servicio General de Identificación Personal Tribunal Supremo Electoral Voto en el Exterior

REPRESENTATIONS IN USA

Consulado General de Bolivia en Miami, FL   Consulado General de Bolivia en Nueva York   Consulado General de Bolivia en Los Angeles   Consulado General de Bolivia en Houston, TX

GOVERNMENT LINKS Aduana Nacional de Bolivia Ministerio de Economía y Finanzas Públicas Ministerio de Educación Ministerio de Gobierno Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores

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How To Apply For A Bolivia Tourist Visa

Published: November 8, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Amalie Webster

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Welcome to Bolivia, a land of stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant traditions. Whether you’re drawn to the breathtaking Andes mountains, the vast Amazon rainforest, or the fascinating indigenous cultures, Bolivia offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Before embarking on your adventure, it’s important to understand the visa requirements for visiting this remarkable country.

A Bolivia tourist visa is a legal document that allows foreign nationals to enter Bolivia for tourism purposes. It grants you the opportunity to explore the country’s diverse attractions, including the mesmerizing Salar de Uyuni, the historical city of Sucre, and the lively markets of La Paz.

Obtaining a Bolivia tourist visa is a straightforward process, but it requires a bit of preparation and attention to detail. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of applying for a Bolivia tourist visa, including the required documents, application form, fees, and visa interview (if applicable). We will also provide tips on tracking your visa status and what to do in case of visa denial.

Whether you’re planning a short getaway or an extended stay, securing your Bolivia tourist visa will ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into the country. So, let’s dive into the details and make your dream of exploring Bolivia a reality!

What is a Bolivia Tourist Visa?

A Bolivia tourist visa is an official authorization issued by the Bolivian government that allows foreign nationals to visit Bolivia for tourism purposes. It is a temporary visa that allows you to explore the country’s cultural, historical, and natural attractions as a tourist.

The tourist visa is typically granted for a specific period of time, allowing individuals to stay in Bolivia for a designated duration. The validity of the visa can vary depending on the country of citizenship and the specific circumstances of the visit. It is important to note that the tourist visa is not intended for individuals planning to work, study, or engage in business activities in Bolivia.

With a Bolivia tourist visa, you can indulge in a wide range of activities such as exploring the stunning landscapes, experiencing the vibrant festivals, immersing yourself in the local culture, and savoring the delicious Bolivian cuisine. Whether you want to hike through the Andes, visit ancient ruins, or witness the traditional rituals of the indigenous communities, a tourist visa opens up a world of possibilities in Bolivia.

It is essential to have a valid tourist visa before traveling to Bolivia, as entry is not permitted without it. Fortunately, the process of obtaining a tourist visa is relatively straightforward, and with the right documentation and preparation, you can ensure a smooth entry into the country.

It’s important to note that visa regulations and requirements may vary based on your country of citizenship. It is advisable to check with the Bolivian embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements and application procedures.

In the following sections, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of applying for a Bolivia tourist visa, including the required documents, application form, fees, and other important details to help make your visa application a success.

Who Needs a Bolivia Tourist Visa?

If you are planning to visit Bolivia for tourism purposes, it is important to determine whether you need a tourist visa. The visa requirements can vary depending on your country of citizenship. Here are some general guidelines to help you determine if you need a Bolivia tourist visa:

• Citizens from countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and many European Union countries are typically required to obtain a tourist visa before traveling to Bolivia.
• Citizens from some countries, including Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay, may be exempt from obtaining a tourist visa for stays up to a certain duration. The length of the visa exemption period can vary, so it is important to check the specific requirements for your country.

It is important to note that even if you are exempt from obtaining a tourist visa, you may still be required to present certain documents upon entry, such as a valid passport and proof of onward travel.

If you are unsure about whether you need a tourist visa for Bolivia, it is recommended to contact the Bolivian embassy or consulate in your home country for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding visa requirements.

Additionally, it is worth mentioning that the requirements may differ for citizens of countries with diplomatic relations and visa agreements with Bolivia. For example, citizens of certain countries may be eligible for visa-on-arrival or electronic travel authorization systems. Once again, it is essential to confirm the specific requirements based on your citizenship.

Now that you have a general understanding of who needs a Bolivia tourist visa, let’s move on to the next section, where we will explore the required documents for the visa application process.

Required Documents for a Bolivia Tourist Visa

When applying for a Bolivia tourist visa, you will need to gather certain documents to support your application. The specific requirements may vary depending on your country of citizenship and the consular office you are applying through. However, here is a general list of the documents you may need:

• Valid Passport: You will need a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining beyond your intended stay in Bolivia. Make sure your passport has blank pages for visa stamps.
• Visa Application Form: You will be required to complete a visa application form. This form can usually be downloaded from the website of the Bolivian embassy or consulate in your home country.
• Passport-sized Photos: You will need recent passport-sized photos to be submitted with your application. The size and specifications may vary, so it is recommended to check the requirements specified by the embassy or consulate.
• Proof of Travel Itinerary: You may be asked to provide a detailed travel itinerary that includes your planned activities, accommodation arrangements, and intended duration of stay in Bolivia.
• Proof of Financial Means: You may need to provide evidence of your financial means to support your stay in Bolivia, such as bank statements, proof of employment, or a letter from a sponsor.
• Proof of Return or Onward Travel: You may be required to submit proof of your return or onward travel from Bolivia, such as a confirmed flight ticket or travel itinerary.
• Travel Insurance: Some consulates may request proof of travel insurance that covers medical expenses and emergencies during your stay in Bolivia. Check the specific requirements set by the consulate.
• Proof of Accommodation: You may need to provide proof of accommodation arrangements, such as hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a host in Bolivia.
• Police Clearance Certificate: In some cases, you may be asked to provide a police clearance certificate or a criminal record check from your home country.

It is important to note that the above list is not exhaustive, and additional documents may be required depending on your individual circumstances. It is advisable to check the specific requirements outlined by the Bolivian embassy or consulate in your home country.

Now that you have an idea of the required documents, let’s proceed to the next section, where we will guide you through the step-by-step process of applying for a Bolivia tourist visa.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Bolivia Tourist Visa

Applying for a Bolivia tourist visa involves several steps that need to be followed carefully to ensure a successful application. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the visa application process:

• Research Visa Requirements: Start by researching the specific visa requirements for your country of citizenship. Visit the website of the Bolivian embassy or consulate in your home country to gather accurate and up-to-date information.
• Gather Required Documents: As mentioned in the previous section, gather all the required documents for your visa application. Make sure to have a valid passport, completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, proof of travel itinerary, proof of financial means, proof of return or onward travel, and any other documents specified by the consulate.
• Complete the Visa Application Form: Fill out the visa application form accurately and legibly. Double-check all the information before submitting it. In some cases, you may need to complete the form online and print it out.
• Submit the Application: Once you have gathered all the necessary documents and completed the application form, submit your application to the nearest Bolivian embassy or consulate in your home country. You may be required to make an appointment or send the documents by mail, depending on the consulate’s guidelines.
• Pay the Visa Application Fee: Pay the required visa application fee, which can vary depending on your country and the duration of your intended stay. The payment method may differ, so check with the consulate for the accepted forms of payment.
• Attend the Visa Interview (if applicable): Some applicants may be called for a visa interview. Be prepared to answer questions regarding your travel plans, the purpose of your visit, and your ties to your home country. Answer truthfully and confidently.
• Track the Status of Your Visa Application: After submitting your application, you can track the status of your visa application through the consulate’s website or by contacting the embassy or consulate directly. Be patient, as visa processing times may vary.
• Collect Your Visa: Once your visa application is approved, collect your visa from the embassy or consulate. Make sure to check the validity dates and any specific conditions or restrictions mentioned on the visa.

It is important to note that the visa application process and requirements may vary depending on your country of citizenship and the consulate you are applying through. It is recommended to consult the official website or contact the Bolivian embassy or consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

With the step-by-step guide in mind, you are now ready to start the process of applying for your Bolivia tourist visa. In the next sections, we will delve deeper into specific aspects of the application process, such as completing the visa application form, gathering supporting documents, paying the visa application fee, and more.

Completing the Visa Application Form

Completing the visa application form is an important step in the process of applying for a Bolivia tourist visa. This form serves as an official record of your personal details, travel plans, and other relevant information. Follow these guidelines to ensure you accurately and thoroughly complete the visa application form:

• Download the Application Form: Visit the website of the Bolivian embassy or consulate in your home country and download the visa application form. Ensure that you have the latest version of the form.
• Provide Personal Information: Fill in your personal details, including your full name, date of birth, nationality, and passport information. Enter this information accurately and ensure it matches the details on your passport.
• Specify Purpose of Visit: Indicate that you are applying for a tourist visa and provide a brief explanation of your intended activities in Bolivia, such as sightseeing, exploring cultural attractions, or participating in adventure tourism.
• Enter Travel Dates: Specify your planned entry and exit dates for your visit to Bolivia. Ensure that your travel dates align with the validity period of your visa.
• Provide Contact Information: Write down your current home address, email address, and telephone number. Ensure that this information is accurate and up to date as it may be used by the consulate to communicate with you.
• Outline Travel Itinerary: Provide a detailed itinerary of your planned activities in Bolivia. Include the cities and attractions you plan to visit, as well as the duration of your stay in each location.
• Answer Health and Security Questions: The application form may include questions regarding your health status and any criminal record. Answer these questions truthfully and provide any necessary supporting documentation if required.
• Review and Sign the Form: Double-check all the information you have entered on the form to ensure its accuracy. Make sure you have signed the form as required.

Keep in mind that the specific format and requirements of the visa application form may vary depending on the consulate. Read the instructions carefully and follow any additional guidelines provided by the consulate when completing the form.

Once you have filled in the visa application form accurately and thoroughly, you are ready to gather the required supporting documents. In the next section, we will discuss the essential documents you need to provide along with your visa application.

Gathering Supporting Documents

When applying for a Bolivia tourist visa, it is crucial to gather the necessary supporting documents to supplement your application form. These documents serve as evidence of your travel plans, financial means, and ties to your home country. Here are some essential supporting documents you may need to include:

• Passport: Include a clear copy of your valid passport. The passport should have at least six months of validity remaining beyond your intended stay in Bolivia.
• Passport Photos: Attach recent passport-sized photos that meet the specifications outlined by the consulate. Typically, two identical photos are required.
• Proof of Travel Itinerary: Provide a detailed itinerary of your planned activities in Bolivia. Include information such as hotel reservations, tour bookings, and transportation arrangements.
• Proof of Financial Means: Demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Bolivia. This can be done by submitting bank statements, income tax returns, or sponsorship letters, depending on your situation.
• Proof of Accommodation: Include hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a host in Bolivia, showcasing your accommodation arrangements during your visit.
• Proof of Return or Onward Travel: Present evidence of your return or onward travel from Bolivia, such as a confirmed flight ticket or travel itinerary.
• Travel Insurance: Provide proof of travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation during your stay in Bolivia. Ensure that the insurance meets the minimum required coverage stated by the consulate.
• Police Clearance Certificate: Some consulates may require a police clearance certificate or a criminal record check from your home country. Check if this document is necessary for your application.
• Additional Documents: Depending on your circumstances, you may need to include additional documents. For example, if you are a student, you may need to provide proof of enrollment or a letter from your educational institution.

Remember to provide clear and legible copies of all documents and arrange them in the order specified by the consulate. It’s important to note that the above list is a general guide, and the consulate may have additional requirements specific to your country of citizenship and individual circumstances. Check the consulate’s website or contact them directly to ensure you have all the necessary supporting documents.

Once you have gathered your supporting documents, you’re ready to proceed to the next step, which involves paying the visa application fee. We will discuss this in detail in the following section.

Paying the Visa Application Fee

When applying for a Bolivia tourist visa, you will be required to pay a visa application fee. This fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with processing your visa application. The payment process may vary depending on the consulate and the country from which you are applying. Here are the steps to pay the visa application fee:

• Check the Fee Amount: Visit the website of the Bolivian embassy or consulate in your home country to determine the specific visa application fee amount. Fees can vary depending on the country and the duration of your intended stay.
• Accepted Payment Methods: Find out the accepted methods of payment for the visa application fee. Common methods include cash, bank transfer, money order, or cashier’s check. Some consulates may also accept credit or debit cards.
• Payment Location: Determine where you need to make the payment. Some consulates may require you to pay the fee in person at the embassy or consulate, while others allow you to pay through designated banks or online payment platforms.
• Prepare the Payment: Collect the required amount of money in the accepted currency or ensure that you have the necessary payment instrument, such as a bank draft or credit card, to make the payment.
• Submit the Payment: Follow the specific instructions provided by the consulate to submit the visa application fee. This may involve making the payment at the consulate, at a designated bank, or through an online payment portal. Ensure that you obtain a receipt or proof of payment for your records.

It is important to pay the visa application fee promptly and as instructed by the consulate to avoid any delays or complications in your visa processing. Keep in mind that the payment of the visa application fee does not guarantee the approval of your visa. The fee is non-refundable, even if your visa application is denied.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the visa application fee payment process, it is advisable to contact the Bolivian embassy or consulate directly for clarification and assistance.

Once you have successfully paid the visa application fee, you are ready to submit your application. In the next section, we will discuss the process of submitting your visa application to the consulate.

Submitting the Application

After completing the necessary forms, gathering the required documents, and paying the visa application fee, it is time to submit your Bolivia tourist visa application. Here are the steps to follow when submitting your application:

• Review Your Application: Double-check your application form and all supporting documents to ensure that they are accurately filled out and organized in the required order. Make sure nothing has been missed or omitted.
• Make Copies: Prepare copies of all your completed application forms and supporting documents. It is essential to keep a set of copies for your own records.
• Book an Appointment (if required): Check if the consulate requires you to book an appointment to submit your visa application. If an appointment is necessary, make sure to follow the consulate’s instructions and secure a convenient date and time.
• Visit the Consulate: On the day of your appointment or as per the consulate’s instructions, visit the Bolivian embassy or consulate in your home country to submit your application. Bring the original documents along with the copies.
• Submit the Application: Present your application forms, supporting documents, and passport to the consulate’s visa officer. Follow their instructions and hand over the documents as requested.
• Provide Biometric Data (if required): Some consulates may require applicants to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints or photographs, as part of the application process. Comply with any such requirements.
• Collect the Receipt: After submitting your application, make sure to obtain a receipt or acknowledgement from the consulate as proof of submission. This receipt will be important for tracking the status of your application.

It is important to note that the consulate may have specific requirements or additional instructions for the application submission process. Make sure to familiarize yourself with these requirements by visiting the consulate’s website or contacting them directly.

Once your application has been submitted, it will undergo processing, which involves reviewing your documents and verifying the information provided. The visa processing time can vary, so be patient during this period. In the next section, we will discuss how you can track the status of your visa application.

Tracking the Status of Your Visa Application

After submitting your Bolivia tourist visa application, it is natural to want to stay informed about its progress. Fortunately, there are several ways to track the status of your visa application. Here are some methods you can use:

• Consulate’s Website: Visit the website of the Bolivian embassy or consulate where you submitted your application. Look for the visa application tracking section, if available. Enter the required information, such as your passport number or application reference number, to check the status of your application.
• Consulate’s Contact Information: Contact the Bolivian embassy or consulate directly over the phone or via email. Provide them with your application details and inquire about the status of your application. They should be able to give you an update on its progress.
• Application Receipt: Refer to the receipt or acknowledgement you received when you submitted your application. The receipt may include instructions on how to check the status of your visa application. Follow the provided guidelines to track your application.
• Third-Party Visa Application Tracking Services: Some third-party visa application tracking services offer the option to track the status of your visa application. These services can be helpful if they have access to real-time updates from the consulate where you applied.
• Consular Interviews: If your application has progressed to a visa interview stage, attending the interview might provide an opportunity to directly inquire about the status of your application with the consular officer.

It’s important to note that visa processing times can vary, and it may take several weeks for a decision to be made on your application. Be sure to check the processing time estimates provided by the consulate to manage your expectations.

If you have been waiting for an extended period beyond the stated visa processing time, or if you have any concerns about your application, it is recommended to contact the Bolivian embassy or consulate directly for clarification and assistance. They will be able to provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding your visa application status.

In the next section, we will discuss the possibility of a visa interview and reasons why a visa application may be denied.

Visa Interview (if applicable)

In some cases, applicants for a Bolivia tourist visa may be required to attend a visa interview at the Bolivian embassy or consulate. The purpose of the visa interview is for consular officials to gather additional information and assess the applicant’s eligibility for the visa. Here are some key points to keep in mind regarding the visa interview:

• Scheduling the Interview: If a visa interview is required, the consulate will notify you of the date, time, and location of the interview. You may need to make an appointment in advance or arrive at the consulate on a designated date.
• Preparing for the Interview: It is advisable to thoroughly prepare for the visa interview by reviewing your application, understanding the purpose of your visit, and being ready to answer questions pertaining to your travel plans, financial situation, and ties to your home country.
• Documents to Bring: Bring all relevant documents to the interview, including your passport, visa application form, supporting documents, and any additional documentation requested by the consulate. Be prepared to present these documents if requested by the consular officer.
• Type of Questions: The consular officer may ask you a range of questions related to your trip, such as the purpose of your visit, the duration of your stay, your accommodation arrangements, your financial means, and your ties to your home country. Answer the questions honestly and confidently.
• Attire and Demeanor: Dress in appropriate attire for the interview, and maintain a professional and respectful demeanor. Make eye contact, speak clearly, and be polite when conversing with the consular officer.
• Important Tips: Listen carefully to the questions asked and provide concise and accurate responses. Avoid providing excessive information or unnecessary details. Be prepared to discuss any discrepancies or concerns that the consular officer may have in relation to your application.
• Decision After the Interview: Once the interview is concluded, the consular officer will assess your application, considering both the interview and the documents provided. The final decision on your visa application will be communicated to you by the consulate, usually via email or postal mail.

If you have any specific concerns or questions regarding the visa interview, it is recommended to contact the Bolivian embassy or consulate directly. They will be able to provide you with guidelines, instructions, and any additional information you may need to prepare for the interview.

In the next section, we will discuss some possible reasons for visa denial and what to do in case your visa application is not approved.

Possible Reasons for Visa Denial

While applying for a Bolivia tourist visa, it’s important to keep in mind that there is a possibility of your application being denied. Consular officers carefully review each application and consider various factors before making a decision. Here are some potential reasons for visa denial:

• Incomplete or Inaccurate Documentation: If your application is missing required documents or if the provided documents are incomplete or inaccurate, your visa application may be denied. It is crucial to ensure that all the necessary documents are provided and that they accurately reflect your personal and travel information.
• Insufficient Financial Means: If the consular officer determines that you do not have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Bolivia, your application may be denied. It is important to provide evidence of your financial means, such as bank statements or sponsorship letters, to demonstrate your ability to cover your expenses.
• Lack of Ties to Your Home Country: Consular officers assess the likelihood of applicants returning to their home country after their visit to Bolivia. If there is a perception that you have weak ties to your home country, such as lack of employment, family, or property, your visa application may be denied due to concerns about potential overstays.
• Past Immigration Violations: If you have a history of immigration violations or overstaying a previous visa, it may raise concerns about your compliance with immigration laws. This could lead to the denial of your visa application.
• Inability to Justify the Purpose of Visit: If you fail to provide a convincing rationale for your visit or if the consular officer has doubts about your intentions, your application may be denied. It is important to clearly state your purpose of visit and provide supporting documents to substantiate your plans in Bolivia.
• Security or Public Health Concerns: In some cases, visa applications may be denied due to security or public health concerns. If there are issues related to your background, criminal record, or health that could potentially pose a risk, the consulate may deny your visa application.

It is important to note that each visa application is evaluated on an individual basis, and the ultimate decision lies with the consular officer. If your visa application is denied, you will usually receive a written explanation outlining the reasons for the denial.

In the unfortunate event of a visa denial, you may have the option to appeal the decision or reapply at a later time, addressing the concerns and providing additional documentation if necessary. It is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney or seek guidance from the Bolivian embassy or consulate to understand the best course of action.

Remember, thorough preparation, accurate documentation, and honest representation of your intentions can increase the chances of a successful visa application. In the next section, we will discuss the typical processing time for a Bolivia tourist visa.

Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Bolivia tourist visa can vary depending on several factors, including the volume of applications, the complexity of individual cases, and the consulate’s workload. While it is not possible to provide an exact timeframe, understanding the general processing time can help manage your expectations. Here are some points to consider:

• Varied Processing Times: The processing time for a Bolivia tourist visa can range from a few days to several weeks. It is advisable to submit your visa application well in advance of your planned travel dates to allow for sufficient processing time.
• Application Volume: The processing time may be influenced by the number of visa applications received by the consulate. During peak travel seasons or periods of increased applications, processing times may be longer.
• Consular Workload: The workload of the consular staff can impact the processing time. Factors such as staffing levels and the complexity of individual cases can contribute to delays in processing applications.
• Additional Security Checks: In some cases, additional security checks may be required, which can prolong the processing time. These checks are conducted to ensure the integrity of the visa process and maintain security measures.
• Visa Interview: If a visa interview is required, the processing time will include scheduling and attending the interview, which may extend the overall processing timeline.

It is crucial to apply for your Bolivia tourist visa well in advance of your intended travel dates, considering the potential processing time. Applying at least a few months ahead of your trip is recommended to ensure that you receive a decision in a timely manner.

If you have an urgent need to travel and require expedited processing, it is advisable to contact the Bolivian embassy or consulate directly to inquire about any available expedited or priority processing options. They can guide you on whether such services are offered and the associated requirements and fees.

Remember that patience is key during the visa application process. While waiting for your visa application to be processed, avoid making non-refundable travel arrangements or bookings until you have received a decision on your visa, to avoid any potential inconvenience or financial loss.

In the final section, we will discuss the steps for collecting your Bolivia tourist visa once it has been approved.

Collecting Your Visa

After the processing of your Bolivia tourist visa application is completed and the application is approved, it’s time to collect your visa. Here are the steps to follow when collecting your visa:

• Notification of Approval: The Bolivian embassy or consulate will notify you about the approval of your visa application. This notification is typically sent via email or postal mail, depending on the communication method chosen during the application process.
• Arrangements for Collection: Follow the instructions provided in the approval notification to arrange for the collection of your visa. This may involve scheduling an appointment, visiting the consulate during designated hours, or utilizing courier services, depending on the consulate’s procedures.
• Required Documents: Gather the necessary documents for collecting your visa. These typically include your original passport and a copy of the approval notification. It is advisable to have additional identification documents on hand, such as a government-issued identification card or driver’s license.
• Visit the Consulate: At the designated time or location, visit the Bolivian embassy or consulate to collect your visa. Present the required documents to the consular staff and follow any additional instructions or formalities as directed.
• Visa Sticker Placement: Upon receiving your visa, carefully examine it to ensure the accuracy of the details. The visa will typically be affixed to a page in your passport, so ensure that there is sufficient space and that the sticker is properly secured.
• Validity and Conditions: Take note of the visa’s validity dates and any specific conditions or restrictions mentioned. Ensure that you are familiar with these details to comply with the terms of your visa during your stay in Bolivia.
• Safeguarding Your Visa: Once you have collected your visa, it is vital to keep it safe and secure. Treat your visa as a valuable travel document and place it in a protective sleeve or folder. Make copies of your visa and store them separately in case of loss or theft.

During the collection process, it is always advisable to cross-check the details on your visa, including the spelling of your name, passport number, and validity dates, to ensure that all information is correct. Any discrepancies should be brought to the attention of the consular staff immediately.

Now that you have successfully collected your Bolivia tourist visa, you are one step closer to embarking on your adventure in this captivating country. Take some time to familiarize yourself with the visa conditions and make any necessary travel arrangements. With your visa in hand, you are ready to explore the wonders of Bolivia!

Congratulations on reaching the end of this comprehensive guide on applying for a Bolivia tourist visa. We have explored the key aspects of the application process, from understanding what a Bolivia tourist visa is to gathering the necessary documents, submitting the application, and tracking its progress. By following the step-by-step instructions and tips provided, you are well-equipped to navigate the visa application process smoothly.

Remember that the specific requirements and processes may vary based on your country of citizenship and the consulate you are applying through. It is essential to consult the official website of the Bolivian embassy or consulate in your home country for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

As you embark on your journey to Bolivia, whether it’s to marvel at the stunning landscapes, immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage, or experience the warmth of the Bolivian people, obtaining a tourist visa ensures a memorable and trouble-free visit. Take the time to plan your itinerary, explore the diverse attractions, and embrace the beauty and charm of Bolivia.

We hope that this guide has provided you with valuable insights and practical guidance. Remember to be mindful of deadlines, pay attention to details, and maintain open communication with the consulate throughout the application process. With careful preparation and adherence to the visa requirements, you are well on your way to a remarkable experience in Bolivia.

Safe travels, and enjoy your adventures in Bolivia!

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Understanding Tourist Entry Requirements For Bolivia

Fortunately, the majority of tourists entering Bolivia do not require a visa. Some travelers however, depending on which group they fall into, will require a consular tourist visa in order to enter the country.

Before reading on, please use this website in order to identify which group your country belongs to.

Citizens from countries listed on Group 1 may enter Bolivia without a visa for period of up to 90 days (permitted length of stay is initially 30 days, then it can be extended free of charge).

Although countries from Group 1 do not have to obtain a visa to enter Bolivia, there are exit fees that can and will apply for these nations. Exit fees (to be paid in cash at immigration) vary depending on which country you are from. Most fees tend to be around $25 US for international departures and if you are flying within the country the cost is around $2 US.

You will also need to show a passport with at least six months of validity as well as evidence of yellow fever vaccine if visiting endemic areas.

Citizens from countries listed on Group 2 may obtain a visa for Bolivia valid for 30 days from their nearest Bolivian consulate – some of which offer online applications. Under some circumstances you can request a tourist Visa at the airport or at the Bolivian border, however it’s recommended that travelers not rely on this option.  Depending on which country you are from, there can be a fee, usually around $55 US (see below for US citizen prices).

Once in the country, the visa is extendable by request for a further 60 days; continuous or discontinuous in the period of 1 year. You can renew your visa by visiting an immigration office in Bolivia (not including immigration offices at border crossings). A 30 day extension costs around $30 US. 

When applying for a tourist Visa you will be required to present the following documents:

• A visa application form completed and signed
• Passport with six months of validity until expiration
• A printed copy of yellow fever vaccination (front and back)
• Proof of onward travel – if you don’t have a round trip or onward ticket out of Bolivia (for example if you’re traveling by bus), you may wish to purchase a flight or bus ticket out of the country in advance to use as proof
• Evidence of funds or printed copy of bank statement (3 months worth)
• A printed hotel reservation or written invitation in Spanish from friends or relatives in Bolivia
• A 4cm X 4cm or passport sized photo

Though in practice you are unlikely to be asked for all of these documents if applying for your visa at the border (most likely you will only need to show your passport, yellow fever certificate and pay the fee), it is a requirement of the Bolivian government, so you may wish to have this information handy just in case.

Citizens from countries listed on Group 3  are required to obtain a tourist visa from a Bolivian consulate prior to traveling to Bolivia. The application process takes around 3-5 weeks and is based on the same conditions and processes outlined in Group 2 .

Bolivian Life Quick Tip:

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Information for US Citizens

For US citizens, a tourist visa can be obtained for $160 US in cash using the same procedures as Group 2 . This visa fee is called a ‘reciprocity fee’ as it is the same amount that citizens of Bolivia are charged to visit the United States. Note that paying the visa fee when entering Bolivia exempts you from paying any exit fees. If paying the fee at the Bolivian border/airport make sure you have freshly minted US dollars as no marked bills nor credit cards will be accepted.

US tourist visas are valid for 10 years from the date of issue with a stay of 30 days for the purpose of tourism that does not include conducting any sort of paid or for-profit activity. US tourists may extend their 30 day stay up to a 90 day stay through the Bolivian immigration offices. The maximum period of stay for tourists is 90 days per calendar year. The additional periods can be consecutive or non-consecutive within a 1 year period. A US tourist visa holder will only be able to use the visa for up to 3 trips per year. 

As visa and other entry and exit conditions can change at short notice, you should contact your country’s nearest Embassy or Bolivia consulate for the most up to date information before making your trip to Bolivia.

Please Note: According to the US Embassy, as of May 2015, US citizens visiting Bolivia as tourists should obtain an entry visa prior to travel. While a number of US passengers in the past have been successful in purchasing a visa upon arrival at La Paz and Santa Cruz airports as well as Bolivian land borders, recently there have been a number of cases where tourists have been refused entry for not having a visa on arrival. Unfortunately, there is no clear reason as to why some are let in and others refused, it’s just something to be aware of so you can make an informed decision. Better to be safe than sorry, we recommend organising your visa prior to traveling to Bolivia.

Applying For a Visa Online

Visa HQ is a website which allows travlers to apply for a Bolivian Visa in advance before traveling to Bolivia. There is a service fee of around $80 US and processing can take anywhere between 1 – 2 weeks.

Other Types of Visas

For more information about other types of visas, see:

• Extending Your Bolivian Tourist Visa In Sucre
• Applying For A 60-Day Student Visa in Sucre
• The 1 Year Temporary Residency Visa
• Staying Longer in Sucre: Objeto Determinado Visa
• Where To Get Passport Photos In Sucre

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Bolivia Visa Requirements

Our guide below breaks down the visa process step-by-step in combination with Bolivia Hop’s handy Bolivia Visa Requirements tool that allows you to select your country, see what group you are in, and give you a summary of the necessary requirements!

Many nationalities require a visa to enter Bolivia. The visa requirements for each individual depends on the nationality on the passport under which you will be travelling. Some visas are free, others require payment. Some can be obtained upon arrival to the Bolivian border. Others MUST be obtained in advance. It is critical to research your visa requirements before travel and apply for your Bolivia visa within the necessary timelines.

What Visa Group Are You In?

The Bolivian goverment has listed all the countries into 3 different groups. Based on the group your in, they will ask for different requisites needed to enter the country. To quickly check what group your in, use our Visa tool below!

Select your country AFGHANISTAN ALBANIA ANDORRA ANGOLA ANTIGUA + BARBUDA ARAB EMIRATES ARGELIA ARGENTINA ARMENIA AUSTRALIA AUSTRIA AZERBAIYAN REP. DE BAHAMAS BAHREIN BANGLADESH BARBADOS BELARUS BELGIUM BELIZE BENIN BHUTAN BOSNIA BOTSWANA BRAZIL BRUNEI BULGARIA BURKINA FASO BURUNDI CAMAROON CAMBODIA CAMEROON CANADA CAPE VERDE CENTRAL AFRICA CHAD CHILE CHINA COLOMBIA CONGO COSTA RICA COTE D’IVOIRE CROATIA CUBA CYPRUS CYPRUS CZECH REPUBLIC DEM. REP. CONGO DENMARK DJIBOUTI DOMINICA DOMINICAN REPUBLIC ECUADOR EGYPT EL SALVADOR EQUATORIAL GUINEA ERITREA ESTONIA ETHIOPIA FIJI FINLAND FRANCE FRENCH GUYANA GABON GAMBIA GEORGIA GERMANY GHANA GRANADA GREECE GUATEMALA GUINEA REP. OF GUINEA-BISSAEU GUYANA HAITI HONDURAS HONG KONG HUNGARY ICELAND INDIA INDONESIA IRAN IRAQ IRELAND ISLAS MARSHALL REP. DE LAS ISLAS SALOMON ISRAEL ITALY IVORY COAST JAMAICA JAPAN JORDAN KAZAJSTAN, REP. DE KENYA KIRIBITI KUWAIT KYRGYZSTAN LAOS LATVIA LEBANON LESOTHO LIBERIA LIBIA LIECHTENSTEIN LITHUANIA LUXEMBOURG MACEDONIA MADAGASCAR MALASIA MALAWI MALDIVES MALI MALTA MALTA MAURITANIA MAURITIUS MEXICO MICRONESIA MOLDOVIA MONACO MONGOLIA MONTENEGRO MOROCCO MOZAMBIQUE MYANMAR NAMIBIA, REP. DE NAURU, REP. DE NEPAL NETHERLANDS NEW ZEALAND NICARAGUA NIGERIA NORTH KOREA NORWAY OMAN PAKISTAN PALAU, REP. DE PANAMA PAPA NEW GUINEA PARAGUAY PERU PHILLIPINES POLAND PORTUGAL PUERTO RICO QATAR REPUBLIC OF CONGO ROMANIA RUANDA RUSSIAN FEDERACION SAINT LUCIA SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES SAMOA SAN MARINO SAUDI ARABIA SENEGAL SERBIA AND MONTENEGRO SEYCHELLES SIERRA LEONE SINGAPORE SIRIA SLOVAKIA SLOVENIA SOMALIA SOUTH AFRICA SOUTH KOREA SPAIN SRI LANKA ST KITTS AND NEVIS STO. TOME AND PRINCIPE SUDAN SURINAM SWAZILAND SWEDEN SWITZERLAND TAIWAN TANZANIA TAYIKISTAN THAILAND TOGO TONGA TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO TUNISIA TURKEY TURKMENISTAN TUVALU UGANDA UKRAINE UNITED KINGDOM URUGUAY USA UZBEKISTAN VANUATU VATICAN CITY VENEZUELA VIETNAM YEMEN ZAMBIA ZIMBABWE

Required documents to enter the country

Things that everyone will require.

Visa groups Group I, II & III

Find out which Visa group you’re in

Use our updated Visa tool

Additional documents you may present

Visit your local Bolivian Consulate

Verify visa requirements, fees, & processing times

Documents everyone requires

Things ALL nationalities NEED to have:

1. VALID PASSPORT

You must have 6 months validity remaining on your passport at the time of entry. If entering Bolivia from Peru then the passport you use must be the same passport used to enter Peru. If you happen to be of dual citizenship, you cannot switch passports at the Bolivian border.

Visa Groups I, II, III

The Bolivian embassy has listed the different countries into 3 Groups. In order to avoid any issues, or potential fines, it is important you know what group you belong to and what your Bolivia Visa Requirements are:

Passport holders from any of these countries do not require a visa or need to pay any kind of fee upon entering Bolivia. The only requirement is that you present a valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months, and a valid immigration card at the border.

Passport holders from any of these countries NEED to apply for a visa either at a Bolivian embassy or directly at the border. Obtaining a visa at the Bolivian embassy in advance is FREE OF CHARGE, however if you opt to get your visa at the border, a $95 USD fee will apply.

Passport holders from any of these countries MUST apply for a visa IN ADVANCE and can ONLY apply for one directly at a Bolivian embassy. The cost for the visa is $30 USD.

Use our Visa tool

Use our Bolivia Visa Requirements tool at the top of the page to select your country to see what group you are in and a summary of the necessary requirements. We advise to prepare each and every document on the list in order to apply for a visa. Bolivia Hop will not be held responsible should you be denied entrance into Bolivia because you failed to meet any of these requirements.

Find your group according to your country of passport here:

Contact your local bolivian consulate.

Contact your local Bolivian embassy for up to date advice on requirements, processing times and fees. Bolivian authorities may change the rules and prerequisites at their discretion.

If already within Peru, then you can also visit the Bolivian consulate or embassy either in Lima or Cusco.

– I have 2 passports. Can I switch Passports in order to avoid paying the visa fee?

No. The Bolivian authorities will only grant you entry with the passport that you used to enter (and exit) Peru.

– I lost my immigration card. What should I do?

You must approach an immigrations office in Peru and pay a small fine to issue a new immigration card. This replacement fee cannot be paid at the immigrations office or at the border. It needs to be paid at the Peruvian bank, BANCO DE LA NACION. It MUST be done prior to travelling to the border. It is NOT possible to process at the border.

– I overstayed my given time here in Peru. What should I do?

You will need to follow the same procedure as the above question. The cost for overstaying is approximately $1 USD per day.

– I hold a Passport from one of the Group 3 countries. Can I apply for a visa at the border?

NO. Nationalities from Group 3 must apply for a visa at a Bolivian embassy in advance. We recommend you do this before travel, in your home country where possible.

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Getting a Visa for Bolivia: Everything You Need to Know

If you're planning a trip to bolivia, it's important to understand the visa requirements. this guide provides all the essential information you need to know about obtaining a visa for bolivia. from the types of visas available to the application process and necessary documents, this comprehensive resource will help you navigate the visa process smoothly. whether you're a tourist, business traveler, or student, this guide will ensure that you have all the necessary information to obtain the right visa for your trip to bolivia..

Quick Glance:

• Discover the visa requirements for Bolivia, including options for visa-free entry and obtaining a tourist visa for short stays.
• Follow simple steps to apply for a Bolivian visa, including gathering required documents, applying in advance, and paying the visa fee.
• After arriving, keep your documents handy, respect visa conditions, and explore Bolivia’s unique culture and stunning landscapes. Planning a trip to Bolivia can be an exciting adventure, and obtaining a visa is an important part of your preparation. Bolivia’s unique culture, stunning landscapes like the Uyuni Salt Flats, and vibrant cities await you. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of getting a visa for Bolivia, making it straightforward and less intimidating.

Understanding the Visa Requirements for Bolivia

Before packing your bags, it’s crucial to know whether you need a visa to enter Bolivia. Visa requirements can vary depending on your nationality. For many travelers, a tourist visa will suffice for short stays. You can often obtain this visa upon arrival or in advance from a Bolivian consulate.

Some nationalities enjoy the privilege of visa-free entry for a specific period. It’s essential to check with the Bolivian immigration authority or the official website to determine your specific requirements based on your country of residence.

Simple Steps to Obtain Your Bolivian Visa

• Determine Your Visa Type : If you’re traveling for leisure, a tourist visa is what you’re after. However, if your travel involves business or studying, you’ll need to apply for the respective visas.
• Gather the Required Documentation : Generally, you will need a passport valid for at least 6 months, a completed visa application form , recent passport-size photographs, proof of a hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from someone in Bolivia, round-trip or onward travel itinerary, and proof of economic solvency (like a bank statement).

• Health and Safety Compliance : Depending on the health regulations at the time of your travel, you may need to show proof of vaccinations, such as yellow fever, or comply with other health-related entry requirements.
• Apply for the Visa : You can apply for the visa upon arrival in Bolivia or at a Bolivian embassy or consulate in your home country. While getting a visa on arrival can be convenient, there is a peace of mind that comes with having everything arranged before departure.
• Pay the Visa Fee : The cost of a Bolivian visa can vary. Make sure to check the latest fee information and prepare to make the payment, often in U.S. dollars.
• Plan Your Travel During the Visa Window : A tourist visa typically allows you to stay up to 30 days in Bolivia, with the possibility of extension. Make sure your travel plans fit within that timeframe.

Tips for a Smooth Visa Application Process

• Check the Latest Requirements : Immigration policies can change. Always verify the latest information on visa requirements well ahead of your planned trip.
• “ Application accuracy is key ,” as experienced travelers would remind you. Make sure all information on your application form is correct to avoid any delays or rejections.
• Consult the Embassy : If in doubt, your best source of information is the Bolivian consulate or embassy. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date advice regarding your visa application.
• Consider Your Entry Point : While visas on arrival are available at major points of entry, smaller border crossings might not have the same facilities. Research ahead if you plan on taking less-traveled routes.

After Arriving in Bolivia

Once you land in Bolivia with your visa, keep in mind a couple of things:

• Keep Your Documents Handy : Immigration officers may ask to see your documents again, and you’ll need them for any legal procedures inside the country or for extending your visa.
• Respect the Conditions of Your Visa : Stay within the allowed duration and adhere to the visa’s limitations regarding work or study. Overstaying or violating the terms can lead to fines or other legal issues.
• Enjoy Your Stay : Bolivia has much to offer, from the vast, serene beauty of the Salar de Uyuni to the bustling streets of La Paz. Explore with respect and an open heart!

Need More Information?

For more guidance, visit the Embassy of Bolivia website or reach out to them directly. They are the most reliable source for ensuring your trip starts on the right foot.

Also of Interest:

Understanding schengen visa reform: how going digital simplifies applications, sri lanka e-visa guide: apply and travel with ease, final thoughts.

Getting a visa for Bolivia doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With careful planning and following the steps above, you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable Bolivian adventure. Happy traveling!

Planning your epic adventure to Bolivia? Don’t fret about visas! Our step-by-step guide makes it as easy as updating your software. Just gather the necessary docs, apply like a pro, and voila! Explore Bolivia’s wonders hassle-free. Curious for more travel tips? Hop on over to visaverge.com and level up your travel savvy. Happy exploring!

FAQ’s to know:

FAQ 1: What are the visa requirements for visiting Bolivia?

To enter Bolivia, you may need a visa depending on your nationality. However, many travelers can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival or in advance from a Bolivian consulate. Some nationalities enjoy visa-free entry for a specific period. It’s important to check with the Bolivian immigration authority or the official website to determine your specific requirements based on your country of residence.

FAQ 2: How can I apply for a Bolivian visa?

To apply for a Bolivian visa, follow these steps: 1. Determine the type of visa you need, such as a tourist visa, business visa, or study visa. 2. Gather required documents, including a valid passport, completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, proof of accommodation or invitation, travel itinerary, and proof of economic solvency. 3. Consider health and safety compliance, such as vaccinations or health-related entry requirements. 4. Apply for the visa upon arrival in Bolivia or at a Bolivian embassy/consulate in your home country. 5. Pay the visa fee, which can vary. Prepare to make the payment in U.S. dollars. 6. Plan your travel within the visa window, typically 30 days for a tourist visa with the possibility of extension.

FAQ 3: What should I keep in mind after arriving in Bolivia with a visa?

Once you arrive in Bolivia with a valid visa, remember the following:

• Keep your documents handy in case immigration officers require them again or for any legal procedures or visa extensions.
• Respect the conditions of your visa, including staying within the allowed duration and adhering to limitations on work or study.
• Enjoy your stay in Bolivia by exploring its unique culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, such as the Uyuni Salt Flats and La Paz. Remember to explore with respect and an open heart.

For more information and guidance, visit the Embassy of Bolivia website or contact them directly for the most reliable and up-to-date advice on visa requirements and application procedures.

What did you learn? Answer below to know:

• [True/False] Do all travelers need a visa to enter Bolivia?
• What are some of the required documents for obtaining a Bolivian visa?
• Why is it important to consult the Bolivian consulate or embassy for visa information?

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A 7-minute Guide to Bolivia Visa Requirements, Types, Application Process & Extension

Understanding Bolivia visa requirements is a given if you are planning a trip to this Andean country. But we don’t go to Bolivia just to see the Bolivian cities like Sucre or La Paz, or visit the Salt Desert of Uyuni or the Lake Titicaca, right?

Some of us maybe want to study Spanish or do business or marry a Bolivian and stay for the long term. And considering how cheap it is, can you imagine how many digital nomads would kill to live there? There are many types of visas for Bolivia, and the requirements are different for all of them.

The visa policy of Bolivia is often confusing. I will try to address all these on this Bolivian visa guide and update it if I come across new information.

Table of Contents

What Does Bolivia Visa Look like- a Sample Bolivia Visa

Yes, this is a tourist visa to Bolivia, obtained in the Bolivian consulate in India. The visa starts running from the day it is issued. So once you have it, you would need to plan to travel to Bolivia within 30 days of getting the visa.

Bolivia Visa Free Countries- Who Needs a Visa for Bolivia?

The first thing to know is that Bolivia divides different countries into 3 different groups, and only the first group comprises of Bolivia visa-free countries. You can check which group your country falls in on the official website of Bolivia’s foreign ministry , and then clicking on ‘Autorización de Ingreso Por TURISMO y VISITA’.

Bolivia Visa Group 1 Countries

Citizens from countries from Group 1 can enter Bolivia without a visa for 90 days (Initial length of stay is 30 days, then it can be extended.) A lot of European countries, the Philippines, Australia, USA etc.  make up this group. This means you enter without a sticker visa, and get a Bolivian tourist card with an entry stamp.

The catch is that citizens from countries in Group 1 might have to pay an exit fee when they leave. It normally is around 25$ if you are leaving Bolivia and 2$ if you are flying domestic, but this depends on your country again.

Bolivia Visa Group 2 Countries

Citizens of countries from Group 2 are eligible for a visa on arrival or they can apply for it at a consulate beforehand. 

Ex-  India, South Korea, China, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Bangladesh.

Bolivia Visa Group 3 Countries

Citizens from countries that fall under  Group 3 don’t have the visa on arrival option. They have to obtain a tourist visa from a Bolivian consulate before they get to Bolivia. The application process might take around 1-5 weeks. The visa fee is normally 30$.

Ex- Indonesia, Pakistan.

Visa to Bolivia for Mercosur countries

Citizens from Mercosur countries such as Colombia, Argentina, Peru, etc. can enter with an ID card and a Yellow Fever certificate.

Types of Visas to Bolivia

1. bolivia tourist visa/ entry: 30 days.

The good news is that Bolivia doesn’t require the citizens of the majority of the countries to apply for a tourist visa beforehand, and gives a lot of others to get a visa on arrival easily.

So you can get this visa from a consulate or on arrival. As you already might know, a tourist visa is for

• Sightseeing
• Instagram stories, Tiktok videos, and selfies of you that don’t look like selfies

I think you get the idea. It is simply for traveling to Bolivia.

2. Bolivia Student Visa

A Bolivia student visa is issued to people who want to study in Bolivia, the most popular reason being, you guessed it, studying Spanish.

There are a few types.

60-day student visa

It is the easiest student visa to get. You can get it from an embassy of Bolivia or in migraciones Bolivia. A lot of people get it just so they can stay longer in Bolivia, coz’ in reality, if you want to study Spanish in Bolivia for 60 days, you can easily do so with a tourist visa for Bolivia.

180-day Exchange student visa

A 180-day exchange student visa can be obtained from a Bolivian embassy to study in public or private universities or other teaching centers.

If you wish to stay longer, you can extend the student visa up to 3 years in Bolivian immigration office, until the completion of your studies.

3. Temporary Residence Visa for Bolivia

A temporary residence visa for Bolivia is issued to a foreigner for one year.

After obtaining your temporary residency visa you are required to obtain a Cedula de Extranjeros (foreigner’s identity card).

4. Objeto Determinado Visa/Specific Purpose Visa

The Objeto Determinado visa , also known as Specific Purpose Visa, allows temporary entry into Bolivia for several purposes, for 30 days.

• Business travel
• Work contract
• Marriage in Bolivia, Filming for commercial purposes
• Performing any other legal activity not related to tourism
• To apply for a temporary or permanent resident visa

It is not possible to apply for residency (temporary or permanent) while in Bolivia on a tourist visa. Instead it is necessary to obtain an Objeto Determinado Visa and, while on this visa, you can apply for Bolivia residence visa.

It can be extended to 90 days if necessary.

Citizens of some countries can apply for Objeto Determinado Visa while being in Bolivia, while many other nationals need to apply this visa from a consulate abroad.

5. Multiple Entry Visa

Multiple Entry Visas are issued for a period of 1 year. You can renew them every year as well. These are issued by Bolivian embassies to foreign citizens who want to

• Invest in Bolivia
• Conduct business in Bolivia

It is also known as Bolivia business visa.

7. Humanitarian Visa

A humanitarian visa is granted for 30 calendar days, based on humanitarian grounds such as to:

• Victims of human trafficking
• Being the companion to someone requiring medical treatment

8. Courtesy Visa

A Courtesy Visa is granted for up to 60 calendar days to foreigners who are invited by a public institution in Bolivia, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to do stuff that’s of interest to Bolivia.

9. Official/Diplomatic Visa

A diplomatic/official visa can be issued to foreign citizens traveling to Bolivia in order to perform official duties on behalf of their countries. Think of consular officers and ambassadors and so on.

Bolivia Visa Requirements

Requirements for bolivia tourist visa.

Whether it is a visa on arrival or a visa that you get from a Bolivian consulate, the Bolivia visa requirements are same for citizens of Group 2 and Group 3 countries.

1. Sworn statement for Bolivia visa application form, obtained from  http://www.rree.gob.bo/formvisas/ . 2. A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity. 3. A certificate of vaccination against Yellow fever. 4. A recent 2″ x 2″ passport type photograph. 5. Travel itinerary and booking accommodation. Letter of invitation if someone is sponsoring you. 6. Proof of financial solvency: Account statements for the last 3 months.  7. A residence permit or a resident visa for the country you are in, if you are not in your home country.

Visit the website of Bolivia’s consulate in your country beforehand to check if there are any additional requirements.

Bolivia Visa Application Process

Bolivia embassy visa application process would usually be different from the process of applying a visa in an immigration office or General Directorate of Migration.

If you are opting for Visa on arrival, you need to have all the above-mentioned documents with you when you are at an international airport in Bolivia or a border crossing.

On the contrary, if you are planning to submit a visa application for Bolivia it from a Bolivian consulate in your home country or a country you are resident of, visit the http://www.rree.gob.bo/formvisas/ . Once you fill in your details, you need to take a printout of the this form and other documents to the consulate.

Here is an article explaining the step by step process of obtaining a Bolivia tourist visa from a consulate .

How Long Can You Stay in Bolivia as a Tourist?

Bolivia entry requirements and stay duration are pretty straightforward. The maximum period of stay for tourists is 90 days per calendar year. The calendar year starts from the day you enter Bolivia.

So let’s say you enter Bolivia on 21st November 2020 for the first time, your calendar year will end on 21st November 2021.

Within this calendar year, your stay can be for 90 days consecutively or non-consecutively.

How Much Does Bolivia Visa Cost?

The visa fees vary from country to country, and even in different immigration offices in Bolivia. A visa on arrival for Bolivia would normally cost more than a visa obtained from a consulate.

A visa for Bolivia if applied from a consulate, might range from $0-30. Also note that even if a Bolivia visa is free for certain countries, it’s only free if you get it from a consulate beforehand. Once you apply for it on arrival, you might have to pay for it.

Visa On Arrival for Bolivia

I highly recommend you not to go for the visa on arrival option. I will explain why. Visa on arrival is designed to make travelling easier for tourists from many developing countries. However, in case of Bolivia, they make things harder for the VoA applicants.

On paper, it is all sunshine and rainbows. In most cases if you apply for a visa on arrival at a Bolivian border, they might not be so picky about all the documents needed for tourist visa. Most likely you will only need to show your passport, yellow fever certificate and pay the fee. But you should have everything handy.

But, there have been cases where citizens of different countries who have tried the visa on arrival option have been turned back even though they fulfilled all the requirements.

Depending on your citizenship, you might be subjected to treatments that others are not subjected to. At land borders or airports, they only accept cash. And that too, freshly minted US dollars. And stories from the airport are no better especially if you are not from a first-world country.

Based on your citizenship, you need to pay a visa fee at the border which normally is about 95$, while you could get it for free in a consulate.

Bolivia Visa Extension

You can extend a tourist visa at any of the  immigration offices in Bolivia .

Here is the first person account of a US citizen on how to extend Bolivia visa .

If you are from a Group 1 country, extending the number of days is pretty easy. You can simply show up 2-3 days before your 30-days limit is up at an immigration office and get another 30 days. These are the documents you need. The extension is free of cost.

• Photocopies of the first page of the passport and the page with the entry stamp.
• Photocopy of the Bolivian tourist card ( the green form that was stamped and returned to you when you entered the country), as well as the original.

But if you are from a Group 2 or Group 3 country, the extension process will be different. Along with the above documents, you would also need to carry proof of financial solvency, hotel reservations, and flight tickets- more or less the same documents that you used when you applied for a visa. And it will cost you.

Bolivia Visa for US Citizens

As of January 7, 2020, Tourist visas are no longer required for US citizens traveling to Bolivia. However, US citizens still need to extend their stay before running out of the 30-day limit in Bolivia. The same rules that apply to other foreigners apply to US citizens as well.

Prior to this, US citizens had to get a visa before coming to Bolivia. The Bolivia visa for US citizens used to cost $160, and it would be valid for 10 years.

But if you are planning to study in Bolivia or do business or engage in any activity other than tourism, you can get a visa from the Bolivian embassy in DC or a Bolivia consulate in other parts of USA.

Bolivian Embassy in DC

Address:  1825 Connecticut Ave NW suite 200C, Washington D.C., 20009. Phone:  202-232-4827 / 4828 Emergency phone:  703-568-9339 Email : [email protected], [email protected]

Opening hours : 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. from Monday to Friday

Bolivian Consulate NYC

Address : 211 East 43rd Street, Suite 702, New York, 10017 Phone: +1-212-687-0530 Email: [email protected]

Bolivian Consulate Houston

Address : 2401 Fountain View Dr. Suite 110 , Houston, Texas, 77057 Phone : (832) 916-4200 Email : [email protected], [email protected]

Bolivia Visa for Indians

Indian citizens can apply for Bolivia visa in India through the embassy of Bolivia in New Delhi. Bolivia visa for Indian passport holders is also available as a visa on arrival. However, this will end up costing you a lot more.

So I would say just go and apply for it in India, if you are sure about your plans.

Overstaying Bolivia Visa

As a principle, I never think overstaying is ever a good idea even if the country is easy about it. If you overstay a few days or weeks you will be required to pay a fine of 20 Bs per day at the border or airport when you leave.

However, overstaying for months doesn’t have that good of an ending. You may get detained or being banned from entering Bolivia for some time. So, please extend your stay in time and don’t overstay.

In conclusion, I would say that the Bolivia visa requirements and application guidelines are not that complicated. Watch out for extensions and avoid visa on arrival, and you will be fine.

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Bolivia Visa for US Citizens | Requirements & Application

Last Updated : 23 Apr 2024

Last Updated : 23 Apr 2024 at

30-second summary

US nationals traveling to Bolivia must apply for a Bolivia visa when visiting for tourism purposes.

US citizens can apply for a Bolivia visa through Atlys or an embassy/consulate.

Bolivia offers a tourist visa that is stamped on your passport after approval.

You must submit your passport in person.

Important Information

— Visa type

— Bolivia visa cost

— Visa processing time

— Bolivia visa validity

— Length of stay

Do US nationals need a visa for Bolivia?

Yes, US passport holders must have a valid visa when traveling to Bolivia, whether for tourism or business purposes.

With a Bolivia tourist visa, you can enter the country once and stay up to 30 days . US citizens must apply for a Bolivia visa through Atlys or the embassy/consulate in their jurisdiction, as no Bolivia online visa option is available.

Do US green card holders need a visa for Bolivia?

US green card holders will need a visa for Bolivia, depending on their nationality. They do not need to apply for a visa if their country of nationality is visa-exempt. If their country of nationality is not part of the visa-exempt countries, they must apply for a visa before traveling.

Can US nationals get a Bolivia visa on arrival?

Yes, US nationals can get a Bolivia visa on arrival at any land or air border. The on-arrival visa will allow you to enter the country for tourism purposes with a stay of 30 days.

The visa on arrival is not guaranteed, and rejection can lead to deportation, resulting in the loss of travel funds. Apply for a visa before traveling to avoid uncertainties.

Bolivia visa requirements for US nationals

When applying for your visa to Bolivia, you must submit the following documents:

Passport: A passport valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date is required.

Photo: Provide a recently taken passport-sized photo

The following documents will be required when you apply for the Bolivia visa yourself at the embassy/consulate:

Visa application form: The visa application form must be completed online accurately and truthfully.

Passport-sized photo: You must submit a 2" by 2" passport-sized photo.

Proof of stay: You must prove where you will stay through a hotel reservation or an invitation letter. The invitation letter must have the address, invoices for basic services (water and electricity), and the rental or owner's papers.

Flight ticket: You must provide a round-trip ticket or a copy of your travel itinerary.

Proof of funds: You must submit bank statements as proof of sufficient funds.

Atlys collaborates with government entities to minimize the documents you need to provide. You only need to submit the basics. Atlys will handle the rest.

With Atlys, you can upload your documents directly using your laptop or smartphone camera.

Application jurisdiction

When applying for your visa, ensure that you apply within the correct jurisdiction based on your residence in the US. Applying for your visa in the wrong jurisdiction can lead to visa rejection.

Here are the consulates based on your jurisdiction:

Bolivian Consulate in Washington, DC: Applicants who reside in Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri, Minnesota, and North Carolina.

Bolivia Consulate in Houston: Applicants who reside in Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.

Bolivia Consulate in New York: Applicants who reside in New York, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.

Bolivian Consulate in Miami: Applicants who reside in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Kentucky.

Bolivian Consulate in Los Angeles: For applicants in California, Arizona, Snowfall, Idaho, Washington, Mountain, Wyoming, Utah, Oregon, Alaska, Hawaii, North Dakota, and South Dakota.

Bolivia visa fees

The Bolivia visa costs $160 for US nationals.You can pay the visa fee in US or local currency.

*Note that the fees may change at any time. Be sure to contact the embassy before applying for your visa.

Bolivia visa application process

Atlys prioritizes consistency and convenience for our readers. To get a Bolivia tourist visa, you can apply through Atlys or directly at the embassy or consulate.

How to apply through Atlys

To experience a seamless visa application, you can apply for your visa on Atlys; here are the steps you can follow:

Visit Atlys: Go to the Atlys website.

Upload your document: Submit all the required documents on Atlys directly or using your smartphone or laptop camera.

Provide your details: Enter the required personal and travel details.

Pay the visa fee: Verify all your details and proceed to checkout to pay the visa fees.

Appointment booking: Atlys will assist you in booking your appointment for submitting your application.

Visit the embassy: Go to the consulate and submit your application. After submission, your visa will be processed.

Visa outcome: Atlys will inform you once your visa is approved, instructing you to collect it from the consulate.

Why choose Atlys

The visa processing time can take 10 days to process. However, on Atlys, you will receive your visa in 7 days.

Atlys works with government entities to ensure you receive your visa on time.

On Atlys, you can apply for your visa, your family's, or your friend's visa all at once.

How to apply by yourself

US nationals can apply for a visa to Bolivia through the consulate in their jurisdiction. Here's how:

Gather the documents: Collect all the necessary documents for your visa application. Ensure that all your documents are accurate and meet the requirements.

Complete the application form: Fill out the online application form accurately and upload the required documents. Throughout the process, you will receive a generated code. Make sure to save this code.

Contact the consulate: Contact the consulate to schedule an appointment and confirm that they accept visa applications from your jurisdiction.

Visit the consulate: Go to the consulate with all the required documents and submit your application.

Pay the visa fee: After submitting the application, you must pay the Bolivia visa fee of $160.

Await your visa: The processing of your visa will take 10 days. Once approved, you can collect your visa from the embassy/consulate.

Choose Atlys for a more simplified experience to avoid the complicated application steps.

Applications tips

Ensure all your documents match your passport information.

Keep hard copies of your documents, as the application process is not entirely online.

Your documents must be in PDF, JPEG, or PNG format and no larger than 500 KB.

Apply for your visa at least 3 weeks before your travel.

Receive your approved visa

After submitting your visa application, it will be processed within 10 days. However, several factors can cause delays in processing, so it's important to apply for your visa in advance.

Through Atlys:

Upon approval, Atlys will notify you that your visa has been approved. You can then proceed to collect your visa from the consulate.

Through the consulate:

After the processing time, you should inquire about the status of your visa processing. Once it's approved, you can collect it from the consulate.

Bolivia visa information

How to check your visa status.

To check your Bolivia visa status, you must contact the consulate and inquire about the processing of your visa. Additionally, be prepared to provide your application details, such as your name and passport number, for verification purposes.

On Atlys, you will receive regular updates on the status of your visa processing. Once your visa is approved, you will be promptly notified.

Bolivia visa processing time

The Bolivia visa processing time takes 10 days to complete . However, various reasons can delay the processing of your visa, causing the processing time to be longer. Ensure to apply for your visa 3 weeks before your travel date.

Visa stay and validity period

The Bolivia visa allows you to enter the country once for a stay period of 30 days . The authorities will determine the visa's validity period.

Our commitment to visa accuracy

Atlys understands the importance of accurate and timely information when applying for a visa. This is why all the content for this blog was gathered from trusted government sources:

Bolivia consulate in Washington, DC.

Travel state government website .

The Bolivia visa requirements and visa fees can change without warning. Contact the embassy before applying for your visa to get the most current information.

Frequently asked questions

Yes , US citizens can extend their stay in Bolivia by applying for a visa extension at the General Directorate of Migration (National Migration Service) in Bolivia.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport , for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Bolivia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Bolivian Embassy in the UK (in Spanish). 

Passport validity requirements

To enter Bolivia, your passport should have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive. 

 Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to. 

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Checks at border control

You may need to show proof of your accommodation, for example, a hotel or hostel booking and its address, at least for your first night in Bolivia. 

Make sure you get your passport stamped.

Make sure you get an entry stamp when you arrive in Bolivia, otherwise you’ll have to pay a fine when you leave.

If you enter Bolivia overland, make sure you get your passport stamped on both sides of the border, with an exit stamp from the country you are leaving and an entry stamp on the Bolivian side.

Bolivia no longer stamps passports on the border with Argentina, but you must register your exit with Argentina’s immigration authorities (in Spanish) who pass the information to Bolivian immigration.

The British Embassy cannot intervene in immigration issues.

Visa requirements

You can visit Bolivia for up to 90 days without a visa. Border officials issue 30-day stamps, but you can apply for 90 days in person at your nearest immigration office in Bolivia (in Spanish).   

As a tourist, you get 90 days of visa-free travel in a one-year period. If you want to stay longer, check with the Bolivian Embassy in the UK  (in Spanish) or the Department of Immigration (in Spanish).

To work, study, travel for business or for other reasons, you must meet the Bolivian government’s entry requirements (in Spanish). Requirements include a police criminal record certificate from the UK, which you can get from the ACRO Criminal Records Office . If you need any documents from the UK, get them translated into Spanish and legalised by the Legalisation Office .

Travelling with children

If only one parent or legal guardian is travelling with a child, you cannot visit Bolivia for longer than 90 days. If you stay for more than 90 days, the child will need a judicial permit to leave Bolivia with only one parent.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Bolivia guide .   

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Bolivia (in Spanish). You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

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Bolivia Visa Requirements – How to apply, Fees and Validity

Table of Contents

Bolivia is a landlocked country in South America’s central region. It shares borders with Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, and Chile. If you are planning to visit Bolivia, you will need to obtain a visa before arrival. This article will provide you with all the information you need about the Bolivia visa requirements, including how to apply, fees, and validity.

About Bolivia Visa

Requirements for a Bolivia visa differ based on citizenship. US citizens need a passport valid for six months beyond the date of their arrival in Bolivia, and a visa, which can be obtained from the Bolivian consulate or embassy.

Nationals of Bangladesh, India, Kenya, and Pakistan do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days. However, Haitian citizens must have a passport valid for six months beyond their arrival in Bolivia and a visa that can be obtained from the Bolivian consulate or embassy.

The requirements for a Bolivia visa are a passport valid for at least six months after you arrive in Bolivia, a visa application form (which can be found on the website of the Bolivian consulate or embassy), two passport-size photos, and the applicable fee.

Types of Bolivia visas

There are six types of visas for Bolivia, which are classified by the purpose of the visit. The first type of visa is for tourism, a visa for visitors who want to travel and explore the country. The second type of visa is for business, a visa for visitors who want to conduct business in Bolivia. Finally, the third type of visa is for transit, a visa for visitors who need to pass through Bolivia on their way to another destination.

The fourth type of visa is for work, a visa for visitors who want to work in Bolivia. The fifth type of visa is a student visa for students who want to study in Bolivia. And the sixth type of visa is a family reunion, which is a visa for family members of Bolivian citizens or permanent residents.

Documents required for Bolivia Visa

When planning a trip to Bolivia, it’s important to be aware of the  visa requirements. A valid passport, a visa application form and the correct documents to support your application are required.

The most common documents needed are a copy of your passport bio page, round-trip tickets or itinerary, proof of financial stability, and a letter of invitation if you’re visiting friends or family in Bolivia. You may also be asked for additional information, such as proof of employment or academic status.

The best way to ensure that you have all the correct documents is to contact the Bolivian embassy or consulate in your country. They can list specific requirements and help you through the application process.

Bolivia visa groups and their requirements

Bolivia is broken into three groups according to their Notice to Enter. To guarantee no issues or possible fines, it is essential to understand the category you belong to and your other Bolivia Visa Requirements. The groups are listed as follows:

Foreign nationals holding any of these passports are not subject to a visa obligation, nor do they have to pay a fee for entry to Bolivia. However, a valid entry for Bolivia is one of the requirements to be a GROUP 1 PASSPORT HOLDER.

Countries in this group are; the United States of America, Australia, Philippines, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden.

Visa requirements

• 6-month validity remaining on the  passport
• Two copies of the  passport information page
• Two  passport photos
• Evidence of a  hotel reservation
• Detailed printed  itinerary  of your time in Bolivia
• Exit ticket  out of Bolivia
• Photocopy of  bank statement

These countries’ passport holders applying for a Bolivian visa either at a Bolivian embassy or the frontier needs to be instructed to apply for and accept an electronic application ahead of time. No charge is incurred, but in case you decide to apply with an online form at the border, a supplementary $95 fee will be charged. Countries in this group are Bangladesh, China, Nigeria, India, South Korea, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam.

• Two passport  photos
• Photocopy of your  bank statement

Passport holders of any of those countries must submit an application for a visa IN ADVANCE and only CAN apply for a Bolivian visa directly at a Bolivian embassy. The cost of a tourist visa is USD 30. Indonesia and Pakistan are in this group.

• Proof of  economic solvency

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need a visa to bolivia.

Yes, you will need a visa to visit Bolivia . You can apply for a visa online or through the Bolivian consulate in your country.

Can I get a visa upon arrival in Bolivia?

Yes, you can get a visa on arrival in Bolivia. The visa costs USD 135 and is valid for 30 days. In addition, you will need proof of onward travel and a passport valid for at least six months.

How long does it take to get a Bolivian tourist visa?

It takes about three days to get a Bolivian tourist visa. After that, you can apply for a visa at the Bolivian embassy or consulate in your country. The visa costs USD 30.

Is Bolivia visa-free for Nigerian citizens?

Yes, Bolivia is visa-free for Nigerian citizens.

Is Bolivia open for tourists?

Yes, Bolivia is open to tourists. The country has much to offer visitors, from stunning natural scenery to rich cultural experiences. There are a variety of tourist destinations in Bolivia, from the bustling city of La Paz to the picturesque town of Sucre. However, travelers should know that Bolivia is a developing country, and some areas may be less developed than others.

Is it safe to travel to Bolivia now?

Yes, it is safe to travel to Bolivia now. The country has seen an increase in tourism in recent years, and the government has made efforts to ensure the safety of visitors. However, as with any destination, it is always essential to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Is English spoken in Bolivia?

Yes, English is spoken in Bolivia. It is one of the official languages of the country. However, Spanish is the predominant language spoken in Bolivia.

How much does it cost to live in Bolivia?

It depends on what you want to do and where you want to live. In the city, you can live comfortably for around $600 a month. It will be cheaper if you want to live in the countryside, but you will likely have to do more manual labor.

Can foreigners buy property in Bolivia?

Yes, foreigners can buy property in Bolivia. The process is relatively simple, and the government has prioritized attracting foreign investment in the country’s real estate market. There are a few restrictions on what foreigners can buy – for example, they cannot purchase land that is within 100 kilometers of the border – but for the most part, foreigners are welcome to invest in Bolivia’s property market.

How much does a house in Bolivia cost?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as the cost of a house in Bolivia will vary depending on the location and size of the property. However, a house in Bolivia will cost much less than a similar property in other countries.

What are the main jobs in Bolivia?

There are many jobs in Bolivia, but some main ones include farming, mining, and tourism. The country is rich in natural resources, so farming and mining are important sources of employment. And with its stunning landscape and diverse culture, tourism is a crucial industry.

In conclusion, knowing the Bolivia visa requirements is essential before planning a trip. A few different visas may be applicable, so it is best to check with the  Bolivian embassy  or consulate to find out which is right for your needs. Then, with the right visa, you can enjoy all this beautiful country has to offer!

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Learn More: Tourist Visa

What you need to know.

The Bolivia Tourist Visa is a travel authorization required for those entering Bolivia for tourism purposes

The visa is initially valid for 30 days, but can be extended up to 90 days while in Bolivia

To apply for the visa, you must have a passport with at least 2 blank pages

Find out more about the Bolivia Tourist Visa

Last updated: April 2024

We currently don't offer this visa, but you can find more info at your nearest Bolivian Embassy or Consulate

Bolivia has something for everyone, whether you're an adventurous explorer, history enthusiast, or nature lover.

Eligible travelers need a Bolivia Tourist Visa according to local laws to embark on your journey. Find out more below.

What is the Bolivia Tourist Visa?

The Bolivia Tourist Visa, sometimes called the Bolivian Visitor Visa, is an official travel document issued by the Bolivian embassy or consulate.

This Bolivian visa is your ticket to explore the country.

What can you do with the Bolivia Tourist Visa?

It allows you to visit the country for tourism .

You can enter the country through any land or air border with this visa.

What can't I do with the Bolivia Tourist Visa?

With a tourist visa, you aren't allowed to:

• Engage in any form of paid work or business activities
• Study or enroll in educational programs
• Stay in Bolivia beyond the allowed duration specified by your visa

Who requires the Bolivia Tourist Visa?

Visa requirements for Bolivia vary based on nationality .

While some visas are free and can be obtained upon arrival, others require a fee and must be secured in advance.

The Bolivian government categorizes countries into three groups, each with different entry requirements:

Group 1: Don't require a visa.

Group 2: Must get a visa prior to entry for free, or upon arrival for a fee.

Group 3: Must get a visa in advance with special authorization:

Afghanistan, Angola, Bhutan, Cambodia, Chad, Congo, DR Congo, Indonesia, Iraq, Israel, Laos, Libya, Nigeria, North Korea, Pakistan, Rwanda, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Timor-Leste, United States, and Yemen.

Visa-exempt countries: Who doesn't need to apply for a Bolivia Tourist Visa?

Travelers from the following countries have visa-exempt agreements with Bolivia (Group 1):

• United Kingdom
• European Union member states
• El Salvador
• Liechtenstein
• New Zealand
• Philippines
• Switzerland
• Vatican City

Bolivia Tourist Visa for minors/children

Minors from eligible countries must also have a Bolivia Tourist Visa if they travel to Bolivia for tourist purposes.

The application process for children is generally similar to that for adult applicants, with a few additional requirements.

When applying for a Bolivia Tourist Visa for a minor, the legal guardians or parents will need to provide the following additional documents:

Proof of parental relationship : This can be in the form of a birth certificate or any other official document establishing the relationship between the minor and the legal guardian(s)

Consent letter : A notarized consent letter signed by both parents or legal guardians authorizing the minor to travel to Bolivia. This letter should include information about the trip, such as the purpose of travel, duration of stay, and details of the accompanying adult(s), if applicable

Authorization form : Minors traveling alone or with only one parent need to obtain an authorization form from the non-traveling parent or both parents to leave Bolivia

Additional documents : Depending on the specific requirements of the Bolivian immigration office, additional documents may be requested

Bolivia Tourist Visa validity: How long can I stay in the country?

It depends on your nationality. Usually, the visa allows a max. stay of 30 days.

Can I extend my Bolivia Tourist Visa?

If desired, the visa can be extended for 30 days in Bolivia through the Dirección General de Migración (National Migration Service).

Bolivia Tourist Visa requirements

Certain requirements and documents must be submitted to obtain a Bolivia Tourist Visa. Here's what you need to submit:

Original passport with at least two blank visa pages

Two passport photos , recently take

Visa application form : completed, printed, and signed

Bank statement (from the last three months)

Travel itinerary including hotel reservations

Round trip ticket or proof of onward travel plans

Yellow fever vaccination certification if you're coming from a high-risk area

For specific cases, you might need the following documents :

A Certificate of Good Conduct or a Police Record. If applicable, the document should be translated into Spanish or English

A notarized introduction letter or invitation letter

How to apply for the Bolivia Tourist Visa?

To apply for the Bolivia Tourist Visa, please follow the instructions on the government website

Bolivia Tourist Visa costs and processing times

The processing of your visa may take 4 to 6 weeks due to limited availability of visa stickers at the embassy, so we advise to apply as early as you can.

Bolivia Tourist Visa fees can vary depending on your location, it's usually around US$30.

Where can I learn more?

Don't hesitate to contact our customer support team via online chat or WhatsApp . We're happy to help!

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Do I need the Bolivia Tourist Visa to transit through the country?

If you're transiting through Bolivia and won't leave the airport's international transit area, you generally don't need a Bolivia Tourist Visa .

However, confirming the specific transit requirements is essential based on your nationality and transit duration. Contact your nearest Bolivian Embassy or Consulate for more accurate info.

What are the entry rules and restrictions for Bolivia (including for COVID-19)?

What is an introduction letter.

A letter of introduction is a document that helps back up why someone wants to enter Bolivia .

It includes an official introduction or endorsement for the person seeking entry. The letter provides information about the purpose of the visit, how long the person will stay, their relationship with the letter issuer, and other important details that support the entry request. It is often required to be notarized.

How much money should be shown on bank statements for a Bolivia Tourist Visa?

Where can i read more.

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• Bolivia visa policy
• iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://www.gob.bo/