Visa and travel Requirements to visit Bolivia

Understanding Bolivia’s Visa Policy

The Three Country Groups Explained

Navigating Bolivia’s entry requirements begins with understanding its tiered visa system. The Bolivian government categorizes all foreign nationalities into three distinct groups, which determines the specific entry procedure for each traveler. The passport you hold is the sole factor that places you into one of these groups, dictating whether you can enter visa-free, obtain a visa upon arrival, or must secure one in advance.

The three groups are as follows:

• Group 1: Visa-Exempt Countries. Citizens from nations in this group do not need a visa for short-term tourism stays. They are granted entry upon arrival, typically for up to 90 days.
• Group 2: Countries Eligible for Visa on Arrival or Consular Visa. Travelers from this group have a choice. They can either apply for a visa at a Bolivian embassy or consulate before their trip or, for added convenience, obtain a visa on arrival (VOA) at major international airports and select land borders.
• Group 3: Countries Requiring a Pre-Arranged Visa. Nationals from countries in this category must apply for and be granted a visa from a Bolivian embassy or consulate prior to their travel. The option for a visa on arrival is not available to this group.

It is critical to remember that these lists and the policies associated with them can change, sometimes with little notice, due to shifting diplomatic relations. Before finalizing any travel plans or booking flights, we strongly recommend that you check directly with the nearest Bolivian consulate or embassy. They will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding your country’s specific visa requirements.

Visa Requirements by Country Group

Once you’ve determined which of the three country groups your nationality falls into, you can prepare the specific documents and follow the correct procedures for entry. Below is a detailed breakdown of the requirements for each group.

Group 1: Visa-Exempt Countries

Citizens of Group 1 countries enjoy the most straightforward entry process, as they do not need a visa for short tourist stays. This group primarily includes member nations of MERCOSUR and the Andean Community, as well as most countries in Western Europe.

Travelers from these countries are typically granted a stay of up to 90 days upon arrival. While a visa is not required, you must still present certain documents to immigration officials.

Key Entry Requirements:

• A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining from your date of entry.
• Proof of onward or return travel may be requested.
• You may be asked to show proof of accommodation and sufficient funds for your stay.

Example Countries in Group 1:

• South America: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela.
• Europe: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and others in the Schengen Area.
• Other Regions: Japan, Philippines, Turkey.

Group 2: Visa on Arrival or at a Consulate

Travelers from Group 2 countries have two options: obtain a visa in advance from a Bolivian consulate or get a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at specific entry points. Notable countries in this group include the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Choosing between these two options often comes down to cost, convenience, and peace of mind. Applying at a consulate is generally less expensive but requires more planning. The VOA is more convenient for last-minute travel but typically carries a higher fee and requires having all your documents perfectly in order upon arrival.

The cost for a tourist visa for U.S. citizens, for example, is currently around $160 USD when obtained on arrival, but this can fluctuate. Fees at consulates may be lower but can vary by location.

A critical point to consider is your port of entry. The VOA service is reliably available at major international airports like those in La Paz (LPB), Santa Cruz (VVI), and Cochabamba (CBB). However, obtaining a visa at a land border can be unpredictable and challenging. Officials at smaller crossings may not be equipped or authorized to issue visas, potentially leading to a denial of entry. For this reason, if you plan to enter Bolivia by land, it is strongly recommended to secure your visa from a consulate in advance.

Group 3: Pre-Arranged Visa Required

Nationals of countries in Group 3 must obtain a visa from a Bolivian embassy or consulate before traveling. These travelers are not eligible for a Visa on Arrival under any circumstances. Attempting to travel to Bolivia without a pre-arranged visa will result in being denied entry.

This group includes many countries across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Some examples include China, India, Pakistan, Iran, and many African nations.

The application process for this group is often more rigorous and requires careful preparation. It is essential to begin the application well in advance of your intended travel dates, as processing times can be lengthy. Contact the nearest Bolivian consulate to get a precise list of required documents and to understand their specific procedures and timelines.

How to Apply for a Bolivian Tourist Visa

Whether you need to apply for a visa in advance or can get one on arrival, the application process requires careful preparation. Gathering the correct documents is the most critical step to ensure a smooth and successful application. Below is a detailed guide to the required paperwork and procedures for obtaining your Bolivian tourist visa.

Required Documents for All Applicants

While specific requirements can vary slightly between consulates, a standard set of documents is necessary for nearly all tourist visa applications. Having these prepared in advance, with both digital and physical copies, will streamline the process considerably.

• Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your intended date of entry into Bolivia. It should also have at least one blank page for the visa sticker and entry/exit stamps.
• Visa Application Form: You will need to complete the “Sworn Statement for Visa Application” (Declaración Jurada de Solicitud de Visa). This is typically an online form that must be filled out, printed, and signed.
• Passport-Sized Photograph: One recent color photograph is required. It should be 2″ x 2″ (or 4cm x 4cm) with a white background, showing your full face without glasses or hats.
• Travel Itinerary: You must provide proof of your travel plans. This can be a copy of your round-trip flight tickets or a detailed travel itinerary showing your entry and exit dates.
• Proof of Accommodation: Evidence of where you will be staying is mandatory. This can be a printout of hotel reservations for at least the first part of your trip or a letter of invitation from a resident in Bolivia. The letter must include the host’s address and contact details. For more details on where to stay, check out our guide to Accommodation in Bolivia.
• Proof of Financial Solvency: You need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay. A recent bank statement or a credit card statement showing a reasonable balance is usually sufficient.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: An International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) for yellow fever is required if you are traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission or if you plan to visit high-risk areas within Bolivia, such as the Amazon region.

Applying at a Bolivian Consulate Abroad

For travelers from Group 3 countries, and those from Group 2 who prefer to have their visa secured before traveling, applying at a Bolivian embassy or consulate is the standard procedure. This route offers peace of mind and avoids potential complications at the border.

The Application Process

The process generally follows these steps:

1. Locate Your Consulate: First, find the Bolivian embassy or consulate responsible for your jurisdiction. You can find a list on the website of Bolivia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
2. Complete the Online Form: Fill out the “Sworn Statement for Visa Application” on the official government portal. You will need to upload digital copies of all your required documents during this step.
3. Schedule an Appointment: Once the online form is submitted, you will typically need to schedule an appointment to present your physical documents at the consulate. Some consulates may accept applications by mail, but this should be verified directly.
4. Submit Documents and Pay the Fee: Attend your appointment with your original passport, the printed application form, and all supporting documents. You will also pay the visa fee at this time. Payment methods vary by consulate, so check in advance if they accept cash, card, or bank transfer.
5. Wait for Processing: Processing times can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the consulate’s workload. It is always wise to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates. You will be notified when your passport and visa are ready for collection.

Getting a Visa on Arrival (For Group 2)

Citizens of Group 2 countries, such as the United States and Canada, have the convenient option of obtaining a Visa on Arrival (VOA). While practical, this option requires you to be exceptionally well-prepared upon landing.

Availability and Logistics

The VOA service is reliably available at Bolivia’s major international airports, including El Alto International Airport (LPB) in La Paz, Viru Viru International Airport (VVI) in Santa Cruz, and Jorge Wilstermann International Airport (CBB) in Cochabamba. Availability at land borders is less consistent and can be challenging; it is highly recommended to secure a visa in advance if you plan to enter Bolivia overland. For information on getting around the country, see our guide to Getting around in Bolivia.

Required Documents and Payment

To obtain a VOA, you must have all the same documents listed above ready to present to the immigration officer. It is crucial to have physical printouts of everything, as you cannot rely on having access to digital files on your phone or computer.

The visa fee, which is often around $160 USD for U.S. citizens (subject to change), must be paid upon arrival. Be prepared for this specific requirement:

• Payment is almost always required in cash only, specifically in U.S. dollars.
• The bills must be in pristine condition: crisp, new, and free of any tears, marks, or excessive folds. Old or damaged bills will likely be rejected.
• Immigration officials may not have change, so it is essential to bring the exact amount required for the visa fee.

Essential Travel Documents Beyond the Visa

Securing the correct visa is a critical first step, but it’s not the only documentation you’ll need for a smooth entry into Bolivia. Immigration officials will also verify other key documents to ensure you meet all entry requirements. Having these prepared and easily accessible will make your arrival process significantly more straightforward.

Passport Validity

Your passport is your most important travel document, and its validity is non-negotiable. Bolivia, like most countries, adheres to the six-month validity rule. This means your passport must be valid for at least six months from your intended date of entry into the country. If your passport expires in five months, for example, you could be denied boarding on your flight or turned away by Bolivian immigration upon arrival. This rule is in place to ensure your passport remains valid for your entire potential stay, including any unforeseen extensions.

Additionally, check that your passport has at least one or two completely blank pages. Immigration officials need space for entry and exit stamps. A passport full of stamps might be a source of pride, but it can be a practical problem at an immigration counter.

Proof of Onward Travel

Bolivian immigration authorities need to be confident that you intend to leave the country before your permitted stay expires. To verify this, they may ask for proof of onward or return travel. This is a standard procedure to prevent illegal immigration and overstays.

Acceptable forms of proof typically include:

• A confirmed return flight ticket to your home country.
• A confirmed flight ticket to a third country.
• A bus ticket showing your departure to a neighboring country like Peru, Chile, or Argentina.
• A detailed travel itinerary from a reputable tour company that clearly shows your departure date and method from Bolivia.

While not always requested, having this documentation ready, either as a physical printout or a digital copy on your phone, is a wise precaution.

Evidence of Financial Solvency

You may also be asked to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your trip. This assures officials that you will not become a financial burden on the state or seek unauthorized employment. There is no official, fixed amount you must have, but you should be prepared to show evidence of financial stability.

Documents that can serve as proof include:

• A recent bank statement (printed within the last 1-3 months).
• A recent credit card statement showing a healthy credit limit.
• A letter from your bank confirming your financial standing.

As a general guideline, being able to demonstrate access to funds equivalent to approximately $50 USD per day of your planned stay is often considered adequate. This is not a strict rule but a helpful benchmark to keep in mind. Having a combination of a credit card and some cash on hand is also a good practice.

Health and Vaccination Requirements

Ensuring you are healthy and prepared for your trip to Bolivia is just as important as securing your visa. The country’s diverse geography, from high-altitude plateaus to tropical lowlands, presents unique health considerations that all travelers should be aware of before departure.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate

A Yellow Fever vaccination is a key health requirement for entering Bolivia, though its necessity depends on your travel itinerary. This viral disease is transmitted by infected mosquitoes in certain tropical regions. Bolivian authorities may require you to present proof of vaccination upon arrival, especially if you are traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission or if you plan to visit high-risk areas within Bolivia itself.

The regions in Bolivia considered high-risk for yellow fever are primarily the tropical and subtropical lowlands east of the Andes mountains. These include:

• The entire departments of Beni, Pando, and Santa Cruz.
• Specific areas below 2,300 meters (7,546 feet) in the departments of La Paz, Cochabamba, Chuquisaca, and Tarija.

To be effective, the yellow fever vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before you enter a high-risk area. Proof of vaccination is documented in an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), commonly known as the “yellow card.” This official document should be kept with your passport at all times, as you may be asked to show it at immigration or at checkpoints when traveling between regions within Bolivia.

Other Recommended Vaccines and Health Precautions

Beyond yellow fever, it is wise to consult with your doctor or a travel medicine clinic 4-6 weeks before your trip to discuss other recommended immunizations and health precautions. Standard recommendations often include:

• Routine Vaccinations: Ensure you are up-to-date on all standard vaccines, such as Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), Tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap), and Polio.
• Travel-Specific Vaccines: Depending on your itinerary and travel style, your doctor may recommend vaccines for Hepatitis A and Typhoid, which are typically spread through contaminated food or water.

A significant health consideration for many visitors is altitude sickness, locally known as soroche. Cities like La Paz, Potosí, and the Salar de Uyuni are situated at very high elevations. Symptoms can range from mild headaches and nausea to more severe conditions. To prevent and manage altitude sickness:

• Acclimatize Slowly: Spend your first 24-48 hours at high altitude resting, avoiding strenuous activity, heavy meals, and alcohol.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and consider sipping on coca tea (mate de coca), a traditional local remedy used to alleviate symptoms.
• Medication: Speak with your doctor about prescription medications like Acetazolamide (Diamox) that can help prevent altitude sickness. It is typically started a day or two before ascending.

Customs and Currency Regulations

Navigating customs can be a straightforward process if you are aware of the regulations before you travel. Bolivia, like all countries, has specific rules regarding what you can bring in and how much currency you can carry without a formal declaration. Familiarizing yourself with these guidelines will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry.

What You Can Bring into Bolivia

When you arrive, you will likely be given a customs declaration form to complete. It is essential to fill this out accurately and honestly.

Personal Effects

Travelers are permitted to bring in personal effects that are reasonably required for their journey. These items are generally not subject to import duties. They include:

• Clothing and personal accessories
• One laptop computer, one tablet, and one mobile phone
• One camera and one video camera
• Portable electronic devices for personal use
• Sporting equipment for personal use
• Books, magazines, and printed documents

Duty-Free Allowances

For travelers over the age of 18, there are specific duty-free allowances for alcohol and tobacco products. The typical limits are:

• Up to 400 cigarettes
• Up to 50 cigars or 500 grams of loose tobacco
• Up to 3 liters of alcoholic beverages

Any amounts exceeding these limits must be declared and may be subject to taxes and duties.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

Bolivia has strict regulations to protect its agricultural sector and natural environment. You are prohibited from bringing in certain items without the proper permits. These include:

• Fresh fruits, vegetables, and other plant products
• Meat and dairy products
• Firearms and ammunition (require a special permit)
• Illegal narcotics and psychotropic substances

Always declare any food, plant, or animal products you are carrying. Failure to do so can result in confiscation and potential fines.

Declaring Currency

Bolivia has regulations concerning the import and export of local and foreign currency to monitor financial flows and prevent illicit activities.

Travelers are required to declare cash amounts if they exceed a certain threshold. The current regulation states that you must declare any amount of cash or its equivalent in other currencies or monetary instruments if it is equal to or greater than US$10,000. You will need to complete a specific declaration form provided by customs officials upon arrival or departure.

While carrying amounts under this threshold does not require a declaration, it is always wise to travel with a mix of payment methods, including credit cards and a moderate amount of cash for initial expenses.

Tips for a Smooth Entry into Bolivia

Your arrival in Bolivia sets the tone for your entire journey. While the entry process is generally straightforward, a little preparation can ensure you navigate immigration and customs with confidence and ease. These tips will help you manage the process, whether you arrive by air or land.

Arriving at Airports vs. Land Borders

The point at which you enter Bolivia can significantly influence your immigration experience. Major international airports are typically more streamlined, whereas land crossings can present unique variables.

Arrivals at international airports like El Alto International Airport (LPB) in La Paz or Viru Viru International Airport (VVI) in Santa Cruz are generally efficient. Immigration officials here are accustomed to processing international tourists, including those eligible for a visa on arrival. The procedures are standardized, and facilities are well-equipped to handle the formalities.

Entering Bolivia via a land border can be a different experience. While major crossings, such as Kasani (from Puno, Peru) or Villazón (from La Quiaca, Argentina), are well-trafficked and relatively organized, smaller and more remote posts can be less predictable. Potential challenges at these crossings include:

• Inconsistent Hours: Some smaller border posts may not operate 24/7. It’s wise to confirm opening hours beforehand to avoid arriving after closing.
• Variable Procedures: Officials at less-frequented borders may be less familiar with the specific visa requirements for all nationalities, which can lead to delays, particularly if you are seeking a visa on arrival.
• Language Barriers: English is less likely to be spoken at remote land crossings. A basic understanding of Spanish phrases related to immigration can be extremely helpful.
• Logistical Hurdles: Be prepared for a more rustic process. This may involve walking between the exit post of one country and the entry post of another and potentially dealing with less formal queues.

If you plan to enter Bolivia by land and your nationality falls into Group 2, obtaining your visa in advance from a consulate is the most reliable approach to prevent any potential complications at the border.

Preparing Your Documents

Organization is paramount for a stress-free entry. Having your paperwork in order demonstrates that you are a prepared and serious traveler, which is always appreciated by immigration authorities. Keep all essential documents together in a dedicated travel folder for easy access.

• Keep Digital and Physical Copies: In an age of digital convenience, the value of a physical photocopy cannot be overstated. Should your phone be lost, stolen, or out of battery, a paper copy of your passport, visa, and flight itinerary becomes invaluable. Store digital copies on a secure cloud service and keep physical copies in a separate piece of luggage from the originals.
• Organize for Accessibility: When you approach the immigration desk, have your passport open to the photo page and all other required documents ready to present. This includes your visa application form (if applicable), proof of onward travel, accommodation bookings, and financial solvency. Fumbling through your bags to find a necessary paper can cause unnecessary delays and scrutiny.

Interacting with Immigration Officials

Your interaction with the immigration officer is a key part of the entry process. A respectful and cooperative attitude will facilitate a smooth and pleasant exchange.

• Be Polite and Patient: Immigration lines can be long, and processes can sometimes feel slow. A calm demeanor and a polite greeting in Spanish (a simple “Buenos días” or “Buenas tardes” is sufficient) can make a positive impression. Patience is essential, especially if there are technical issues or language barriers.
• Answer Questions Clearly and Honestly: Listen carefully to any questions you are asked and provide direct, truthful answers. Common questions pertain to your travel purpose (tourism), the duration of your stay, and where you will be staying. Your answers should align with the information provided in your documentation.
• What to Do if You Encounter Issues: If a problem arises, remain calm and avoid becoming argumentative. Politely ask the official to clarify what is needed. If you are asked for a fee you were not expecting, you can request an official receipt (“un recibo oficial, por favor”). If you face a significant, unresolvable issue, you may politely ask to speak with a supervisor. In a serious situation, contacting your home country’s embassy or consulate in Bolivia is a final option for guidance and support.