Guide to Residency in Bolivia

Obtaining a residency visa in Bolivia is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Bolivia gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Research the types of residency visas
  • Visit the official Bolivian immigration website or contact the Bolivian consulate in your country to understand the different types of residency visas available.
  • Choose the type of visa that best suits your situation (e.g., temporary residency, permanent residency, specific purpose visa).
• Gather required documents
  • Obtain a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining.
  • Request a birth certificate and, if applicable, a marriage certificate, both apostilled or legalized by the Bolivian consulate.
  • Acquire a police clearance certificate from your country of origin, also apostilled or legalized.
  • Get a health insurance policy that is valid in Bolivia.
  • Prepare financial statements or proof of economic solvency.
  • Obtain two recent 4x4 cm color photographs with a red background.
• Apply for a Specific Purpose Visa
  • Complete the visa application form, which can be found on the Bolivian consulate's website or obtained in person.
  • Submit the application form along with the required documents to the Bolivian consulate.
  • Pay the visa application fee.
• Travel to Bolivia
  • Enter Bolivia with your Specific Purpose Visa.
  • Keep your entry stamp on your passport as it will be required for the residency application.
• Apply for a Tax Number (NIT)
  • Visit the nearest Servicio de Impuestos Nacionales (SIN) office or their official website (unfortunately, as of my knowledge cutoff date, there is no English version available).
  • Complete the application form for a NIT (Número de Identificación Tributaria).
  • Provide your passport and Specific Purpose Visa as identification.
  • Receive your NIT, which is necessary for the residency application.
• Apply for residency
  • Go to the Dirección General de Migración (DGAC) office or visit their official website (again, there may not be an English version).
  • Fill out the residency application form provided by the DGAC.
  • Submit the form along with all previously gathered documents, your NIT, and the entry stamp in your passport.
  • Pay the residency application fee.
• Attend required appointments
  • Go to any required interviews or appointments scheduled by the DGAC.
  • Complete a medical examination at an authorized clinic in Bolivia.
• Wait for approval
  • After submitting your application, wait for the DGAC to process your residency request.
  • Check the status of your application periodically, either online (if available) or by visiting the DGAC office.
• Receive residency card
  • Once your residency is approved, you will be notified to collect your residency card.
  • Go to the DGAC office with your passport to receive your card.
• Comply with Bolivian laws
  • Ensure that you understand and comply with all Bolivian laws and regulations regarding foreigners and residents.
  • Keep your residency card and documents up to date, renewing them as necessary.

Please note that the process for obtaining residency in Bolivia can be complex and subject to change. It is highly recommended to seek assistance from a legal professional or an immigration consultant who specializes in Bolivian immigration law. Additionally, always verify the current requirements and procedures with the Bolivian consulate or immigration authorities, as they may have changed since my knowledge cutoff date.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Bolivia?

"In order to visit Bolivia, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. Foreign nationals who wish to stay in Bolivia for an extended period of time must apply for residency. The process of applying for residency involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay, and a criminal background check. Depending on the purpose of the stay, additional documents may be required," commented one member living in Bolivia.