Bolivia, a beautiful South American country offers a visa-on-arrival option for many nationalities, making travel easier for eligible visitors. In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know—from who qualifies and what documents to bring, to visa extension options, common mistakes to avoid, and useful travel tips. Let’s dive in!
What is a Visa on Arrival?
A Visa on Arrival allows travelers to obtain a visa once they arrive in Bolivia, rather than applying in advance at a Bolivian embassy. This makes travel to Bolivia more convenient for eligible travelers, as you only need to bring the required documents, pay the fee at the entry point, and get your visa at the airport or border crossing.
Who Can Get a Visa on Arrival in Bolivia?
Not every nationality is eligible for Bolivia’s visa-on-arrival program. Bolivia organizes countries into three main groups based on visa requirements:
- Group 1 Countries: Citizens of these countries do not need a visa for short stays in Bolivia.
- Group 2 Countries: Travelers from these countries are eligible for a visa on arrival.
- Group 3 Countries: Citizens of these countries must apply for a visa in advance through a Bolivian embassy.
If you’re in Group 2, you’re eligible for a visa on arrival. Here’s a comprehensive list of Group 2 countries eligible for a visa on arrival in Bolivia:
Eligible Countries for Visa on Arrival
- Africa: Algeria, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
- Asia: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, China, India, Iran, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Oman, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand, Turkmenistan, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Vietnam.
- Europe: Albania, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Georgia, Malta, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Serbia, Ukraine.
- Americas: Barbados, Belize, Bolivia (for visitors returning as residents), Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Nicaragua, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago.
- Oceania: Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu.
For travelers from countries not on this list, you will need to apply for a visa in advance. Always double-check the visa requirements on an official government site before you travel, as policies can change.
Documents Required for the Visa on Arrival
If you’re eligible for Bolivia’s visa-on-arrival program, be sure to bring the following documents:
- Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your stay.
- Proof of Accommodation: Hotel bookings, an Airbnb reservation, or a letter from a host.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statement showing you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay.
- Return or Onward Ticket: Evidence of your departure from Bolivia.
- Visa Fee: This fee varies by nationality, typically payable in cash (USD is often preferred). It’s best to carry the exact amount.
Double-check these requirements before your trip to avoid surprises, as immigration officers can be strict about documentation.
How to Apply for the Visa on Arrival
Here’s a step-by-step process of what to expect when applying for a visa on arrival in Bolivia:
- Arrival: After landing, go directly to the visa-on-arrival counter, usually marked by signs in the airport.
- Document Check: Present your passport and other documents, such as proof of accommodation and financial means, to the immigration officer.
- Fill Out the Application Form: The officer will provide a short visa form for you to complete.
- Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the required visa fee in cash. It’s a good idea to carry the exact amount.
- Receive Your Visa: After your documents are reviewed, the officer will place a visa stamp in your passport, and you’ll be ready to enter Bolivia!
Popular Entry Points for Visa on Arrival
Bolivia’s visa-on-arrival process is available at major international airports and land borders. Here are some of the main entry points:
- Airports: El Alto International Airport (La Paz), Viru Viru International Airport (Santa Cruz), Jorge Wilstermann International Airport (Cochabamba).
- Land Borders:
- Peru-Bolivia Border: Desaguadero (closest to Lake Titicaca)
- Chile-Bolivia Border: Tambo Quemado (near the Lauca National Park)
- Argentina-Bolivia Border: Villazón (near Tupiza)
- Brazil-Bolivia Border: Corumbá (Mato Grosso do Sul) and Guajará-Mirim.
Extending Your Visa
If you’re enjoying your time in Bolivia and want to stay longer, you can extend your visa. Here’s how:
- Visit a Migration Office: You’ll need to visit a Bolivian migration office in major cities like La Paz, Santa Cruz, or Cochabamba.
- Documents Needed: Bring your passport, recent passport-size photos, and sometimes proof of funds or address.
- Pay the Extension Fee: The fee varies, so check in advance.
- Duration: Extensions are generally granted for an additional 30 days but may vary depending on your nationality.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make your arrival smooth, avoid these common mistakes:
- Insufficient Funds: Have a bank statement or cash to prove you can support yourself.
- Missing Documents: Ensure all required documents are in order before arriving.
- No Return Ticket: Immigration officers often require proof that you plan to leave.
- Not Carrying Cash for Visa Fee: Most visa counters don’t accept cards, so cash is essential.
Visa Fees for Different Nationalities
Visa fees can vary depending on your nationality. Here’s a general idea:
- U.S. Citizens: Approximately $160
- European Citizens: Usually around $100, but may vary by country
- Asian, African, and Latin American Citizens: Typically $30–$100
Check the current fee with your local embassy or government website.
Health and Safety Tips for Travelers
- Altitude: Many areas, like La Paz, are at high altitudes. Give yourself time to adjust to avoid altitude sickness.
- Vaccinations: Consider getting vaccinated for yellow fever, as it may be required in some areas, especially if you’re coming from another country where yellow fever is present.
- Food and Water: Stick to bottled or filtered water and try to eat at reputable places to avoid stomach issues.
Local Customs and Cultural Insights
Knowing a bit about Bolivian customs can enrich your experience:
- Greetings: A handshake is common, but close friends or family might exchange a light kiss on the cheek.
- Dress Code: Bolivia is generally conservative, especially in rural areas. Modest dress is appreciated.
- Language: Spanish is the primary language, but many indigenous languages, such as Quechua and Aymara, are also spoken. Learning a few Spanish phrases, like “Gracias” (thank you) and “Por favor” (please), can go a long way.
Sample Travel Itineraries in Bolivia
A Week in Bolivia: Highlights
- Day 1-2: La Paz—explore the city, check out the Witches’ Market and take the cable cars for city views.
- Day 3: Lake Titicaca—visit the famous lake, Isla del Sol, and learn about the Incan history.
- Day 4-5: Uyuni—take a tour of the Uyuni Salt Flats, one of the most famous sights in Bolivia.
- Day 6-7: Potosí—explore the silver mines and the UNESCO World Heritage Site city.
Adventure-Focused Itinerary
- Days 1-2: La Paz—warm up with urban adventures.
- Day 3: Death Road Biking—take a thrilling bike ride down the famous “Death Road.”
- Days 4-5: Madidi National Park—experience the Bolivian Amazon with guided jungle tours.
- Days 6-7: Uyuni Salt Flats—spend two days on a photography-rich adventure exploring the salt flats.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay with a visa on arrival?
A: Usually up to 30 days, with options to extend.
What if I overstay my visa?
A: You may face fines or issues with re-entry. Always extend your visa before it expires if you plan to stay longer.
Can I work on a visa on arrival?
A: No, this visa is only for tourism purposes.
Is a visa-on-arrival available at land borders?
A: Yes, many of Bolivia’s land borders offer visa-on-arrival options, especially those with Peru, Argentina, and Brazil.