How to get a Bolivia Tourist Visa as a U.S. citizen

To travel to Bolivia as a tourist, U.S. citizens must secure a tourist visa to enter. This guide explains everything you need to know about obtaining a Bolivia tourist visa, such requirements, process, and where to apply.

Do U.S. citizens need a tourist visa for Bolivia?

Yes. Bolivia requires all U.S. citizens to obtain a tourist visa for entry, based on diplomatic reciprocity.

You can apply in two ways:

• At a Bolivian consulate in the U.S. before travel
• On arrival at major entry points (airports or border crossings)

The process, documentation, and timelines vary slightly depending on your chosen method. Read on for a complete breakdown!

Documents required for a Bolivia tourist visa

Here’s a comprehensive table of what you’ll need:

💡 Tip from Ra'eesah Manack, iVisa travel expert:"

Carry paper copies of all documents, especially if applying on arrival.

Bolivia visa application methods

1. Apply at a Bolivian consulate (before departure)

Recommended if you want peace of mind and faster border processing.

Steps:

1. Locate your nearest consulate: Directory of Bolivian Consulates.
2. Complete the visa form at RREE Bolivia.
3. Print and sign the form.
4. Submit all documents by mail or in person (depends on the consulate).
5. Pay the $160 fee (usually via money order).
6. Receive your visa by mail or pick-up in 5–7 business days.

🧑‍⚖️ Andrea Palacios, Immigration Attorney and Latin American Visa Specialist:

“Applying through a consulate allows travelers to address any issues before they reach the border. This is especially important if your itinerary includes rural areas where consular help is limited.”

2. Visa on arrival (VoA)

Available at:

• El Alto International Airport (La Paz)
• Viru Viru International Airport (Santa Cruz)
• Some major land border crossings

Process:

• Bring all required documents and the completed visa form.
• Present them at the visa counter on arrival.
• Pay $160 in crisp U.S. dollar bills only.
• Wait approximately 1–3 hours for processing.

⚠️ Ra'eesah Manack, iVisa expert, adds:

“Visas on arrival work well if you're short on time, but the risk of delays or incomplete paperwork is real. Always triple-check requirements and have printed documentation in hand.”

Bolivia visa fees and validity

✅ You can extend your stay up to 90 days total per year at a local immigration office.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ): Bolivia Tourist Visa

1. Can I apply for the visa online?
➡️ No, the application form is filled online but must be printed and submitted in person or upon arrival: Apply here.

2. Is the visa fee refundable if denied?
❌ No, the $160 visa fee is non-refundable.

3. Can I extend my tourist visa while in Bolivia?
✅ Yes. Visit the Dirección General de Migración in Bolivia before your visa expires.

4. What if I lose my passport in Bolivia?
🚨 Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy: Embassy La Paz

5. Can I work or study on a tourist visa?
❌ No. You’ll need a different type of visa for work or study.

Need info about other visas or travel documents?

While iVisa does not currently offer Bolivia visa processing, we provide up-to-date guidance and expert support to help you navigate the process with ease. Whether you're preparing paperwork or figuring out where to apply, our resources are designed to empower confident travel.

Need help with other visas? Speak to us via WhatsApp or iVisa chat.