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Bolivia Visa. Source:

Bolivia, a landlocked South American nation, is a captivating blend of Andean peaks, Amazonian rainforest, and vibrant indigenous cultures. From the breathtaking salt flats of Salar de Uyuni to the bustling markets of La Paz— the world's highest administrative capital— Bolivia offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. While tourism is a significant draw, the country also presents opportunities for those seeking longer stays.  However, before planning a trip to this country, it's essential to understand the visa requirements, which can vary based on one’s nationality and the purpose of the visit. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a Bolivia visa.

Types of Bolivia Visas and Their Requirements

1. Tourist Visa

While citizens of exempted countries () can visit Bolivia for tourism with only a valid ID card, other nationalities are required to obtain a tourist visa before travel. This visa grants its holders permission to engage in leisure activities for up to 90 days. However, it is important to note that a Bolivian tourist visa does not permit engaging in any form of paid work or business activities, studying or enrolling in educational programs, or remaining in Bolivia beyond the authorized duration specified on the visa.

Requirements for Tourist Visa:

• A completed visa application form.

• A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity.

• A passport-sized photograph.

• Additional documents as per the consulate's request.

2. Student Visa

If you intend to study in Bolivia, you will need to obtain a student visa. This visa is issued to foreign nationals who have been accepted into a recognized educational institution in Bolivia, such as a university, language school, or vocational training center. The student visa allows you to stay in the country for the duration of your studies, and it typically requires proof of enrollment, financial support, and a valid passport. It's important to apply for the visa in advance and ensure all necessary documentation is in order, as the process may take some time. 

Requirements for Student Visa:

• A completed visa application form.

• Proof of enrollment from a Bolivian educational institution.

• A valid passport.

• A recent passport-sized photograph.

• A medical certificate.

• Police clearance.

• Proof of financial support for the duration of your studies.

3. Business Visa

If you are traveling for business purposes, such as attending meetings, conferences, or negotiations, and you are not being paid by a Bolivian company, you can enter Bolivia on a tourist visa. However, for activities beyond general tourism, a business visa is necessary.

Requirements for Business Visa:

• A completed visa application form.

• A valid passport.

• An invitation letter from a Bolivian company (if applicable).

• Proof of the purpose of your visit.

• A recent passport-sized photograph.

4. Residence and Work Visas

For those intending to work in Bolivia, there are various work visa options depending on the nature and duration of your work:

• Temporary Work Visa: This visa is valid for 30 to 180 days and is suitable for short-term assignments in Bolivia.

• Long-Term Work Visa: For longer stays (1 to 3 years), you need a temporary residence visa, which can later lead to permanent residency after three years.

You can also apply for a resident permit through the following routes:

• Employment: After living in Bolivia on a temporary work visa for three years, you can apply for permanent residency.

• Investment: Investors and entrepreneurs who make significant business investments in Bolivia may apply for permanent residency.

• Family Ties: If you have Bolivian family members, you may qualify for a family-based residency visa.

To apply for Work and Residency Visas, you’ll need:

• A completed visa application form.

• A valid passport.

• Proof of employment or business (invitation letter or work contract).

• Police clearance from your home country and any other countries where you have lived in the past five years.

• A medical certificate and proof of yellow fever vaccination if applicable.

How to Apply for EntryVisa

Bolivia has three groups of countries regarding visa requirements. These groups determine whether citizens need a visa to enter Bolivia and the process for obtaining one. You can check if you need a visa and which category your country falls into by clicking .

1. Group One: Visa Exemption

If you are a citizen of a Group One country, you are automatically granted a stay of up to 90 days in Bolivia without a visa. Simply present a valid ID card upon arrival to receive an initial 30-day entry stamp, which can then be extended for an additional 60 days at a Bolivian Immigration Office. However, if you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you must apply for a long-term visa or other visa type that accomodate your travel purposes.

2. Group Two: Visa Application

Citizens of countries in the second group have two options for obtaining a Bolivian visa:       a) applying at a Bolivian embassy or consulate, or b) obtaining a Visa on Arrival.

a. Applying at a Bolivian Embassy or Consulate 

The process for applying for a Bolivia visa at an embassy or consulate is as follows:

1. Find the Nearest Embassy/Consulate
   Locate the nearest Bolivian Embassy or Consulate, or choose the one that is most convenient for you. Note that not all countries have a Bolivian consulate.

2. Contact the Embassy/Consulate
   Contact the embassy or consulate to inquire about their specific application requirements, whether you need to make an appointment, and the method for submitting your application.

3. Complete the Bolivia Visa Application Form
   Fill out the Bolivia visa application form (Sworn Statement for Visa Application) online. You will need to attach electronic copies of the following documents:

• Your passport

• A passport-sized photo (3 cm x 3 cm)

• Your travel itinerary

• Proof of accommodation in Bolivia

• Invitation letter from a host in Bolivia (if applicable)

• A yellow fever vaccination certificate

• Any additional documents requested by the embassy or consulate

4. Print and Sign the Confirmation Page
   After completing the online form, print out the confirmation page (PDF) and sign it.

5. Gather the Required Documents
   Collect all the required documents for the visa application.

6. Pay the Visa Fee
   Pay the Bolivia visa fee according to the embassy's requirements. In some cases, you may not need to pay the visa fee if you apply before your trip.

7. Submit the Application
   Submit your completed documents at the embassy or consulate during their working hours or on the date of your appointment. Depending on the embassy or consulate, you may also be able to submit your documents by mail.

8. Wait for Processing
   The processing time for your visa is typically 10-15 working days. You will be notified once a decision is made regarding your visa application.

9. Receive Your Visa
   If you applied in person, you may need to return to the embassy or consulate to collect your visa. If you applied by mail, your documents will be returned to you by mail.

b. Bolivia Visa on Arrival

If you are unable to visit a Bolivian embassy or consulate, you may be eligible to receive a Bolivia visa on arrival at the airports in Cochabamba, La Paz, or Santa Cruz. However, the process for obtaining a visa on arrival is not always clearly outlined by Bolivian immigration authorities, and the procedure may vary.

If you are eligible for a Bolivia visa on arrival, ensure you have all the required documents. But you will need to carry the necessary cash (in US dollars) to pay the visa fee. The visa fee must be paid in bills that are in good condition, as damaged bills may be refused by immigration officers.

While a visa on arrival is possible, it is important to confirm specific details and ensure you are fully prepared before traveling.

3. Group Three: Visa Application with Special Authorization

To apply for a Bolivia visa as a citizen of a third-group country, you must apply for a Bolivian Embassy or Consulate. Choose the one that is nearest and most convenient for you to visit.

First, contact the embassy or consulate to inquire about their specific requirements and determine whether you need to schedule an appointment. Then, ask if it is possible to submit your application and documents by mail, as some embassies may offer this option, while others may not.

Next, complete the online Bolivia visa application form (Sworn Statement for Visa Application) and print it out. You will need to attach electronic copies of the following documents:

• Your passport

• A passport-sized photo (3 cm x 3 cm)

• Your travel itinerary

• Proof of accommodation in Bolivia (such as an invitation letter from a host or hotel reservation)

• A yellow fever vaccination certificate

• Any additional documents requested by the embassy

After gathering the required documents, visit the embassy or consulate in person to submit your application, along with your passport and documents. Alternatively, if the embassy offers this service, you may send the documents by registered mail.

The Bolivian Embassy or Consulate will forward your application to the National Migration Service in Bolivia. Processing typically takes three to five weeks, although in some cases, it may take up to three months. If your application is approved, you will be notified and receive your visa.

Visa Fees and Costs

The fees for Bolivia visas depend on the type and duration of your stay, as well as your nationality. Below are some example costs:

• Student Visa: $50

• Tourist Visa (Multiple Entries for 30 Days): $160

• Two-Year Resident Visa: $560

• Work Visa: Fees vary based on the length of stay.

Conclusion

The visa application process for Bolivia varies by nationality and purpose of visit. Whether applying at an embassy, consulate, or on arrival, ensure you have all the required documents and follow the correct procedures. Always check with the relevant authorities for the latest updates before traveling.

Disclaimer

The information in this guide is for general purposes and should not be considered official advice. Visa requirements and processes may change, so it’s important to consult the nearest Bolivian Embassy or Consulate for the most up-to-date information. Meeting the requirements does not guarantee visa approval, as the final decision rests with Bolivian immigration authorities.

References: 

https://www.britannica.com/place/La-Paz-Bolivia