Bolivia applies a reciprocity principle to visas, which is why U.S. citizens are treated differently from most other visitors: they need a visa, obtained in advance at a consulate or on arrival, with a fee and documentation that mirror what the United States asks of Bolivians.
Quick facts
Obtaining it in advance at a consulate is generally smoother than at the border, where requirements are applied strictly and the documentation must be complete.
Fees breakdown
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist visa for U.S. citizens | Reciprocity tariff | Multi-year, multiple entry |
| Visa on arrival | Same tariff, paid at the border | Documents checked strictly |
| Business or work categories | Higher tariff | With sponsor documentation |
| Extension in Bolivia | Charged there | Migration authority |
| Yellow fever vaccination | Charged by your clinic | Certificate required |
Stays are counted in days per year rather than per visit, so frequent travellers should track the total across the calendar year.
How to apply
- Book an appointment at the consulate covering your state.
- Complete the application and gather the supporting documents.
- Obtain the yellow fever vaccination and certificate.
- Provide hotel bookings or an invitation, and proof of funds.
- Pay the tariff and collect the visa.
- Track your permitted days and extend with the migration authority if needed.
Required documents
- Passport valid at least six months with blank pages.
- Completed application and photograph.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate.
- Hotel booking or invitation with the host’s details.
- Return or onward ticket and proof of funds.
- Proof of lawful residence in the United States for third-country nationals.
Where to apply
At the consulate general covering your state, or on arrival where that route suits you better.
Consulate General of Bolivia
View details →HoustonConsulado General del Estado Plurinacional de Bolivia en Houston
View details →Los AngelesConsulado General de Bolivia en Los Angeles
View details →New YorkConsulate General of Bolivia en Nueva York
View details →WashingtonEmbassy of the Plurinational State of Bolivia
View details →WashingtonConsulate General of Bolivia
View details →Additional notes
Bringing a vehicle
Where a foreign-plated vehicle enters Bolivia for tourism driven by someone other than the owner, a consular power of attorney is required and the consulate issues a specific tourist vehicle entry form. It is an unusual service and worth knowing about before you set off.
Altitude
La Paz and the altiplano sit above 3,500 metres. That is a health consideration, not a formality, particularly for older travellers.
Bolivians need no visa
A Bolivian citizen travels on a Bolivian passport. Dual nationals should read the citizenship page.
Keep the entry stamp
It records your permitted stay, and overstay fines are charged on departure.