Visas and immigration

A passport, valid for 1 year beyond the date of visit, is required of all travellers to Bolivia. Citizens of the UK, most Euro- pean countries, Australia, Canada, Israel and New Zealand, as well as most South American countries, do not need a visa.

Since 2008, citizens of the USA do need a visa, which is valid for 90 days' stay. This may be obtained either in advance at a Bolivian embassy or consulate , or directly on entry to the country at airports and land borders.

Other nationalities who need visas fall into 2 categories; some may be processed in 48 hours, while others require special authorization that can take up to 6 weeks.

Upon entry all visitors are required to complete a brief form, which is stamped along with your passport. Keep this form in your passport, losing it can cause problems when leaving the country.

Tourists are not permitted to work in Bolivia. Other types of visas are available for those who wish to live and work in the country. Procedures for obtaining these can be lengthy and complicated but are generally above board. All immigration regulations and procedures are subject to change. For additional information see www.rree.gov.bo.