Dependent Residency for Children of Foreign Residents in Bolivia

Moving to Bolivia with your family involves understanding its immigration system, particularly for securing residency for your children. This guide outlines the process for foreign residents to obtain dependent residency for their children in Bolivia. This is general information, not legal advice.

Understanding Dependent Residency for Children in Bolivia

For foreign residents living in Bolivia, bringing or keeping their children with them requires obtaining the appropriate legal status. This involves applying for dependent residency, allowing children to live legally in the country alongside their parents. The process is managed by Bolivia's immigration authorities.

Legal Basis for Dependent Residency

Bolivian immigration law, specifically Law N° 370 (Ley de Migración), provides the framework for foreigners to reside in the country. While the law primarily addresses the principal applicant's residency, family unity is a recognized principle, and dependent children can generally be included under the parent's residency status or apply as dependents.

Temporary Residency (Permanencia Temporal): This is an authorization for foreigners to stay in Bolivia for a set period. Law N° 370 states it can be granted for up to three (3) years . Decree Supremo N° 1923 specifies that temporary residency can be granted for one (1), two (2), or three (3) years, depending on the activity . Children of foreign residents would typically apply for this status based on their parent's established residency.
Definitive Residency (Permanencia Definitiva): After a minimum of three (3) years of continuous temporary residency, a foreign national may be eligible to apply for definitive residency . This pathway also generally extends to family members.

The Application Process

The Directorate General of Migration (Dirección General de Migración - DIGEMIG) is the government body responsible for processing immigration applications, including those for dependent children .

Dependent Status: Children are generally considered dependents of their foreign resident parents. The application for the child's residency is often linked to the parent's application or existing residency status.
Documentation: A set of documents is required, which typically includes proof of the parent's legal residency, the child's birth certificate, passports, and other supporting identification.
Processing Times: Specific processing times for dependent applications can vary. It is advisable to inquire directly with DIGEMIG or consult with an immigration lawyer for current estimates.

Documents and Steps for Dependent Residency

While specific requirements can change, the general steps and documents for obtaining dependent residency for a child typically include:

Parent's Valid Residency: The sponsoring parent must have a valid temporary or definitive residency status in Bolivia.
Application Form: A completed application form for temporary residency (Formulario de Declaración Jurada de solicitud de permanencia temporal) will be required for the child .
Child's Birth Certificate: An official birth certificate, likely apostilled or legalized by the Bolivian consulate in the child's country of origin and translated into Spanish if necessary.
Child's Passport: A valid passport for the child.
Parent's Identification: The parent's Bolivian identity document (Cédula de Identidad de Extranjero) or passport and proof of their residency status.
Proof of Relationship: The birth certificate serves as primary proof.
Criminal Record Checks: Certificates of no criminal record from the child's country of origin and Bolivia may be required .
Health Certificate: A medical certificate may be required .
Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs of the child.
Payment of Fees: Proof of payment for the application processing fees.

Steps:

Gather all required documentation, ensuring it is properly legalized, translated, and up-to-date.
Submit the complete application package to the Dirección General de Migración (DIGEMIG).
Attend any required interviews or provide additional information as requested.
Await the decision on the residency application.

Common Mistakes and Risks

Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation: Missing, outdated, or improperly legalized documents are common reasons for application delays or rejections.
Failure to Declare Dependents: Not including children on the parent's residency application or failing to apply for their dependent status can lead to legal issues.
Overstaying Visas: Ensuring the child has legal status before their tourist visa or entry permit expires is crucial to avoid penalties.
Changes in Family Circumstances: Divorce, separation, or changes in parental authority can affect a child's residency status, requiring updates with immigration authorities .

When to Get a Lawyer

Navigating immigration law can be complex. It is highly recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer in Bolivia if:

You are unsure about the specific requirements or procedures.
Your case involves complex family situations (e.g., single parenthood, adoption, guardianships).
You have encountered previous immigration issues.
You want to ensure the application is processed smoothly and efficiently.

A lawyer can provide tailored advice, help prepare documentation, and represent your interests before the immigration authorities.

Next steps

Consult with a Bolivian immigration lawyer to understand the latest requirements for dependent children.
Gather all necessary personal documents for yourself and your child, including birth certificates and passports.
Ensure your own residency status in Bolivia is current and valid.
Begin the process of obtaining any required legalized or apostilled documents from your child's country of origin.
Contact the Dirección General de Migración (DIGEMIG) for the most current application forms and fee information.
Prepare for potential health and background checks required for the child's application.

FAQs

Can my child get residency in Bolivia if I am a temporary resident?

Yes, as a foreign resident with temporary residency in Bolivia, your child can typically apply for dependent temporary residency based on your status. The duration of their residency will likely align with yours and is subject to renewal.

What is the difference between temporary and definitive residency for my child?

Temporary residency is an initial permit granted for a set period (1-3 years) and is renewable. Definitive residency allows for permanent residence in Bolivia and is generally available after a minimum of three years of continuous temporary residency.

How long does it take to get dependent residency for my child?

Processing times can vary significantly. It is best to check with the Dirección General de Migración (DIGEMIG) or consult an immigration lawyer for the most current estimates.

Do I need to provide my child's criminal record?

Yes, typically, a certificate of no criminal record from the child's country of origin and potentially from Bolivia is required as part of the application process for dependent residency.

What happens if my child's residency expires?

If your child's residency expires, they will be considered out of status, which can lead to fines, deportation, and difficulties in future immigration applications. It is crucial to apply for renewals well in advance of the expiration date.

Sources

Ley N° 370 de Migración
Decreto Supremo N° 1923
Código de las Familias y del Proceso Familiar (Ley N° 603)

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.