Bolivian Passport Renewal in the U.S. — 2026 Guide

Before a Bolivian passport can be issued, you need an identity number in the national identification system. For Bolivians born abroad — typically children of a Bolivian parent who have never held a Bolivian document — obtaining that number is a separate consular procedure that comes first.

Quick facts

The consulates are precise about what the identity number procedure requires, and one item stands out: an adult applying needs a sworn declaration with two witnesses stating that they have never held a Bolivian identity card, and explaining why.

Fees breakdown

Photographs are an unusual size and an unusual quantity: 3 by 3 centimetres on a white background, and the identity number procedure asks for six of them.

How to apply

1. Check whether you already have an identity number in the national system.
2. If not, complete that procedure first at the consulate covering your area.
3. Book the passport appointment once the number exists.
4. Attend in person: fingerprints and photograph are captured at the counter.
5. For minors, both parents must attend in person.
6. Pay the tariff in the form your consulate accepts.

Required documents

• Original, updated Bolivian birth certificate.
• Current or most recent Bolivian identity card or passport.
• Parents’ identity cards or passports, originals and photocopies, for minors.
• Photographs, 3 by 3 cm on a white background.
• Military record book for men, where it forms part of the supporting documents.
• Consular forms completed at the office itself.

Where to apply

At the consulate general covering your area. Bolivia maintains a small network in the United States, so jurisdiction matters and travel may be involved.

Additional notes

The forms are only available at the counter

The two consular forms used for the identification procedure must be obtained and completed at the consular office. They cannot be downloaded and filled in beforehand.

If you lose your passport abroad

Consulates issue a safe-conduct document that allows a Bolivian citizen to return to Bolivia exceptionally when they hold no valid passport or identity card. It requires attendance for fingerprints and signature.

Updated birth certificate

The certificate must be original and current. An old copy from a family file will not be accepted.

Check the register first

If your details in the national register are inconsistent, the passport application stops. See the civil records page.