Bolivia Residency Documents Checklist

Moving to Bolivia or planning an extended stay? Understanding the required documentation for residency is a crucial first step. This guide outlines the typical documents needed for applying for temporary or permanent residency in Bolivia. This is general information, not legal advice.

Understanding Bolivian Residency

Bolivia offers pathways for foreigners to reside in the country through temporary and permanent residency permits. The National Migration Law (Ley N° 370) governs these processes . The Directorate General of Migration (Dirección General de Migración) is the national authority responsible for processing these applications .

Temporary Residency

Temporary residency (Permanencia Temporal) allows foreign nationals to stay in Bolivia for a defined period. This permit can be granted for one, two, or three years and is renewable . The duration often depends on the reason for your stay .

To apply for temporary residency, you will generally need:

  • A completed sworn declaration form for temporary residency .
  • A valid passport or national identity document .
  • A visa or proof of transient stay, if applicable .
  • A yellow fever vaccination certificate or other health certifications, if required .
  • Documentation proving the purpose of your stay .
  • A current certificate showing no national and international criminal or police records .
  • A medical certificate from a competent institution .
  • Recent passport-sized photographs .
  • Proof of financial solvency, typically via a sworn statement supported by documents .
  • Proof of payment for the application fee .

Permanent Residency

Permanent residency (Permanencia Definitiva) grants the right to reside in Bolivia indefinitely. To be eligible, you generally need to have resided in Bolivia for a minimum of three consecutive years .

Required documents for permanent residency typically include:

  • A completed sworn declaration form for permanent residency .
  • A valid passport, foreigner identity card, or national identity document .
  • Proof of having resided in Bolivia for at least three years .

Special Case: Regularization

For individuals in Bolivia without legal status, there are provisions for regularization. A specific decree allows for regularization through a two-year temporary residency permit . Applications for this regularization must typically be submitted within twelve months of the decree's publication .

Documents for regularization may include:

  • A certificate from the Judicial Registry of Criminal Records (REJAP) .
  • A certificate from INTERPOL .
  • A sworn statement detailing your entry date into Bolivia .
  • A sworn statement about your means of livelihood or lawful activity .
  • Two recent 4x4 photographs with a red background .

Other Considerations

Foreign residents over 60 years old who have held permanent residency for over 15 continuous years may be eligible for a permanent foreigner identity card .

Practical Steps

  1. Gather Personal Documents: Ensure your passport is valid and you have copies of any necessary personal documents.
  2. Obtain Police and Criminal Records: Start the process of getting certificates from national and international police and judicial bodies.
  3. Prepare Financial Proof: Gather documents to demonstrate financial solvency.
  4. Check Health Requirements: Confirm if specific vaccinations or medical certificates are needed.
  5. Complete Application Forms: Obtain and accurately fill out all required application forms.
  6. Pay Fees: Be prepared to pay the application processing fees.

When to Get a Lawyer

Consider consulting a lawyer specializing in Bolivian immigration law if your situation is complex, you are unsure about the process, or you need assistance with specific requirements, such as those under the regularization decree.

Next steps

  • Verify the latest document requirements with the Directorate General of Migration.
  • Consult with an immigration lawyer in Bolivia for personalized advice.
  • Begin gathering all necessary personal and official documents.
  • Check the validity of your passport and other identification.
  • Research the specific requirements for your intended residency category.

FAQs

How long does temporary residency last in Bolivia?

Temporary residency in Bolivia can be granted for one, two, or three years, and it is renewable. The exact duration often depends on the purpose of your stay.

What is the main requirement for permanent residency in Bolivia?

The primary requirement for permanent residency in Bolivia is having resided in the country for a minimum of three consecutive years.

Can I apply for residency if I am in Bolivia irregularly?

Yes, Bolivia has a regularization process that allows individuals in irregular situations to apply for a two-year temporary residency permit. This process has specific requirements and time limits.

Do I need a criminal record check from my home country?

Yes, you will generally need a certificate showing no national and international criminal or police records as part of your residency application.

Sources

  • ley370 - http://www.gacetaoficialdebolivia.gob.bo/normas/verGratis_gob/141875
  • ds1923 - http://www.gacetaoficialdebolivia.gob.bo/normas/descargarPdf/151773
  • ds_regularizacion - http://www.gacetaoficialdebolivia.gob.bo/normas/verGratis_gob/168568

Related guides

This article is general information for educational purposes and is not legal advice. Laws and procedures change; confirm current requirements with a licensed Bolivian lawyer or the responsible public agency before acting.