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.

• Understand the Types of Residency
  • Temporary Residency: Valid for up to two years.
  • Permanent Residency: Valid indefinitely. Requires having held temporary residency for two years.
• Gather Required Documents
  • Valid passport
  • Passport-sized photographs
  • Police clearance certificate from your country of origin
  • Medical certificate issued in Bolivia
  • Proof of economic solvency (bank statements, job contract, etc.)
• Get a Bolivian Visa
  • Visit the Bolivian Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
    • Schedule an appointment.
    • Submit required documents (passport, application form, photos, etc.).
    • Pay the visa fee.
  • Obtain a Specific Purpose Visa if planning to work, study, or invest in Bolivia.
• Enter Bolivia and Register with Migration Office
  • Upon arrival, register with the General Directorate of Migration (DIGEMIG) within 30 days.
    • Website: https://www.migracion.gob.bo/
    • Bring your passport and visa.
• Apply for a Tax Number (NIT)
  • Visit the National Tax Service (SIN) office.
    • Website: https://www.impuestos.gob.bo/
    • Bring your passport and proof of address in Bolivia.
• Open a Bolivian Bank Account
  • Choose a bank and visit a branch.
    • Bring your passport, visa, and NIT.
    • Deposit the minimum required amount.
• Apply for Temporary Residency
  • Visit the DIGEMIG office.
    • Bring all required documents (passport, visa, NIT, bank statement, etc.).
    • Fill out the application form.
    • Pay the application fee.
• Wait for Approval
  • Processing time varies. Check with DIGEMIG for updates.
• Apply for Permanent Residency (after two years of temporary residency)
  • Visit the DIGEMIG office.
    • Bring all required documents (passport, temporary residency card, NIT, etc.).
    • Fill out the application form.
    • Pay the application fee.

Notes

All documents in a foreign language must be translated into Spanish and legalized by the Bolivian Consulate or Embassy in your home country.

Always check the official websites for the most up-to-date information and requirements.

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.