United States Visa RequirementsFor Bolivia passport holders
Bolivian passport holders must obtain a B1/B2 visa before traveling to the United States. Applications are processed at the US Embassy in La Paz, and the non-refundable $185 MRV fee applies along with a mandatory in-person interview.
Bolivia passport holders require a visa to enter United States.
Apply at the US Embassy in La Paz (Avenida Arce 2780, Sopocachi). Complete the DS-160 form at ceac.state.gov, pay the $185 MRV fee, and schedule your interview appointment through the embassy portal. The fee is non-refundable regardless of outcome.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
DS-160 application form
Completed online at ceac.state.gov before scheduling interview
Valid passport
At least 6 months validity beyond intended stay
MRV fee receipt
$185 USD non-refundable visa application fee
Passport photo
2x2 inch (51x51mm), white background, taken within last 6 months
Interview appointment confirmation
Scheduled at the US Embassy website
Proof of financial means
Bank statements, pay stubs, or tax returns showing ability to fund trip
Proof of ties to home country
Employment letter, property documents, family ties, or enrollment proof
Travel itinerary Recommended
Intended dates and purpose of travel to the US
Current Travel Situation
Bolivia to United States: What You Need to Know
Bolivia and the United States have had a complex diplomatic relationship, with periods of reduced diplomatic presence. However, the US Embassy in La Paz continues to process visa applications. Bolivia is not part of the US Visa Waiver Program, and all Bolivian citizens require a B1/B2 visa. A Bolivian community exists primarily in the Washington DC area and in South Florida. Interview wait times in La Paz can vary considerably and applicants should check current wait times well in advance of their planned travel.
How to Get There
Boliviana de Aviacion (BoA), LATAM, Avianca, and Copa Airlines serve routes from La Paz (LPB) and Santa Cruz (VVI) with connections through Lima (LIM), Bogota (BOG), or Sao Paulo (GRU) to Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), or Houston (IAH). There are no direct flights from Bolivia to the US. Total travel time is typically 12 to 18 hours depending on the connection.
Money & Banking
The US dollar is the dominant foreign exchange currency in Bolivia, so Ecuadorians are somewhat familiar with USD values. In the US, budget at least $150 to $250 per day in major cities. Tipping is expected: 15 to 20% at restaurants, and $1 to $2 for hotel porters. Credit cards are widely accepted across the US, and ATMs are available everywhere.
Practical Tips
Check current interview wait times at travel.state.gov/waitingtimes before scheduling your appointment. Fill out the DS-160 form carefully, ensuring consistency with all supporting documents. Strong ties to Bolivia are critical: present employment contracts, property deeds, bank statements, and family documentation. Dress professionally and answer interview questions concisely and honestly. Given Bolivia's high-altitude capital, allow extra time in La Paz before any travel to adjust to the altitude.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Bolivian citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
Yes. Bolivian passport holders must obtain a B1/B2 nonimmigrant visa before entering the United States. Bolivia is not part of the Visa Waiver Program, so ESTA is not an option for Bolivian citizens.
Where is the US Embassy in Bolivia?
The US Embassy is located in La Paz at Avenida Arce 2780, Sopocachi. There is also a US Consulate in La Paz that handles some services. All B1/B2 visa applications for Bolivians are processed in La Paz.
How much does the US visa application cost for Bolivians?
The non-refundable MRV fee is $185 USD. This fee is paid before scheduling your interview and cannot be refunded if the visa is denied. Check the embassy website for current payment methods accepted in Bolivia.
Is the interview required for a US visa from Bolivia?
Yes, an in-person interview at the US Embassy in La Paz is required for most applicants. You must complete the DS-160 form online, pay the fee, and schedule your appointment before attending. Biometrics are collected at the interview.
How do I demonstrate ties to Bolivia for my US visa interview?
Present employment contracts or business ownership documents, property deeds, bank statements showing regular income, tax returns, and evidence of family responsibilities. A letter from your employer on official letterhead explaining your salary and employment status is particularly valuable.
Are there direct flights from Bolivia to the United States?
There are no direct flights from Bolivia to the United States. The typical route from La Paz (LPB) or Santa Cruz (VVI) involves connections through Lima (LIM), Bogota (BOG), or Sao Paulo (GRU) before reaching Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), or Houston (IAH). Total travel time is typically 12 to 18 hours.
How long can Bolivians stay in the US with a B1/B2 visa?
The B1/B2 visa allows multiple entries, but your length of stay is determined by Customs and Border Protection at the port of entry, typically up to 6 months per visit. The visa itself, if approved, is typically valid for 10 years.