Bolivia entry requirements for Kenya passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 6, 2026·View sources
Visa on arrival
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Kenyan passport holders can get a visa on arrival in Bolivia, so you don't need to visit an embassy beforehand. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months and has one blank page. The process is straightforward, but it's smart to have the required documents ready when you land in 2026.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Visa on arrivalYou get the visa when you arrive in Bolivia, not before you travel. Obtain at Bolivian port of entry | Kenyan passport holders are eligible for a visa on arrival in Bolivia. You will need to apply and pay at the point of entry (airport or land border). No prior eVisa application is available for Kenyan nationals. | Required |
| Passport validityCheck your passport expiry date — if it's within 6 months, renew it before you go. At least 6 months beyond entry | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Bolivia. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesThe immigration officer needs a clean page to put your visa and entry stamps. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least 1 blank page for the visa stamp and entry stamp. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketHave your flight itinerary ready — immigration often asks to see it. Proof of exit from Bolivia | You may be asked to show a return or onward flight ticket proving you will leave Bolivia before your visa expires. | Required |
| Proof of fundsNot always checked, but it's safer to have proof you can support yourself. Sufficient for your stay | Carry evidence of sufficient funds (cash, bank statements, or credit cards) to cover your expenses during your stay in Bolivia. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou don't need to fill out any extra arrival form. Not required | No separate arrival declaration form is required for Kenya passport holders entering Bolivia. | Not required |
| eVisa applicationThere is no online visa process for Kenyan passport holders — just get it at the border. Not applicable | Kenyan nationals are not eligible for Bolivia's eVisa program. Do not attempt an online eVisa application; instead, obtain the visa on arrival. | Not required |
Cash is king
The visa on arrival fee must be paid in cash. Credit cards are not accepted. Bring US dollars in good condition (no tears or marks) to avoid rejection.
No extension possible
The visa on arrival is not extendable. If you overstay, you'll face fines and possible difficulties when leaving. Plan your itinerary to stay within the 30-day limit.
No embassy visit needed
You don't need to apply for a visa before flying. The visa on arrival is a straightforward process at the airport, saving you time and paperwork.
What happens at the border
1
Arrive at the airport in Bolivia
You'll land at El Alto International Airport in La Paz or Viru Viru in Santa Cruz. Follow the signs to 'Migración' or 'Immigration' after deplaning.
2
Go to the visa on arrival window
Look for the desk marked 'Visa on Arrival' or 'Visas'. Join the queue. Have your passport, onward ticket, and accommodation details ready.
3
Submit documents and pay the fee
Hand over your passport and documents. The officer will process your visa and tell you the fee. Pay in cash (USD or Bolivianos). Keep the receipt.
4
Get your passport stamped
Once processed, the officer will stamp your passport with the visa and entry stamp. Check that the dates are correct before leaving the counter.
5
Proceed to baggage claim and exit
After the visa is in your passport, you can collect your bags and exit the arrivals area. Keep your passport handy for any spot checks.
Download Bolivia Entry Checklist
PDF · Kenya Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 6, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Multiple-entry visa (if available)
Max stay30 days per entry
ValidityUp to 1 year
CostVaries, typically $160
Request at Bolivian consulate before travel if you plan multiple entries.
Residence permit (temporary)
Max stay1 year (renewable)
Validity1 year
CostApprox. $100–$200
Requires sponsorship or investment; apply at immigration office in Bolivia.
work visa
Work Visa (Visa de Trabajo)
1 year, renewable
~$100 USD (approx. 13,000 KES) plus processing fees
For those with a job offer from a Bolivian company. Requires employer sponsorship, contract, and police clearance. Allows multiple entries.
student visa
Student Visa (Visa de Estudiante)
1 year, renewable
~$50 USD (approx. 6,500 KES)
For enrollment in a recognized Bolivian educational institution. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds. Allows part-time work with permission.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa on arrival (tourist)Payable in cash (USD or BOB) at point of entry. Valid for 30 days. | $160 (approx. BOB 1,100) |
| Extension of stayApply at Servicio Nacional de Migración in Bolivia before current visa expires. | $25 (approx. BOB 170) per month |
| Exit fee (if applicable)Some land borders may charge a small departure tax (approx. BOB 15). | Included in airfare for most international flights |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete documents20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Bolivia
No transit visa needed
Kenyan passport holders transiting through Bolivia (e.g., at El Alto International Airport) do not need a visa if staying airside and continuing within 24 hours.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If leaving the airport or staying overnight, a visa on arrival is required.
Transit hubsEl Alto International Airport (LPB) · Viru Viru International Airport (VVI)
Health & vaccines for Bolivia
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission (e.g., Kenya). Must show certificate at entry.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialYellow FeverEssentialRabiesConsiderCOVID-19Recommended
Health risks
Altitude SicknessHigh risk
High altitude in La Paz and Potosí can cause severe symptoms; acclimatize gradually and consider medication.
DengueModerate risk
Mosquito-borne disease present in lowland areas; use repellent and sleep under nets.
Chagas DiseaseLow risk
Rare in tourists; avoid sleeping in poorly constructed rural huts.
Malaria risk: moderate
Risk in lowland areas (e.g., Santa Cruz, Beni). Prophylaxis recommended for rural travel; not needed in high-altitude cities.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
La Paz
Dirección General de Migración
Calle Ballivián esq. Av. 16 de Julio, La Paz
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
For visa extensions and overstay payments. Bring passport, entry stamp, and fee in cash.
Santa Cruz
Oficina de Migración Santa Cruz
Av. San Martín esq. 3er Anillo Interno, Santa Cruz
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Handles extensions and re-entry permits. Expect queues; arrive early.
Practical information for KE travellers
Country basics
CapitalSucre
LanguageSpanish
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 90 days.
Money
CurrencyBolivian boliviano (BOB)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 6.93 BOB
Time zone
Local timeUTC-4
vs New York+1h
vs Los Angeles+4h
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
A,CTypes A (two flat pins) and C (two round pins) are used.
✓ No adapter needed for US plugs
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled or boiled water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
Yes, the visa on arrival is available at all international airports in Bolivia, including El Alto (La Paz), Viru Viru (Santa Cruz), and Jorge Wilstermann (Cochabamba). The process is the same at each.
The fee is around $160 USD, but it can vary slightly. It's best to carry that amount in cash, preferably in US dollars. Bolivian bolivianos are also accepted, but the exchange rate may not be in your favor.
The visa on arrival typically grants a stay of up to 30 days. It is not extendable, so plan your trip accordingly. If you need more time, you'd have to leave and re-enter or apply for a different visa at a Bolivian consulate before your trip.
It's not mandatory for all travelers, but if you're coming from Kenya (a yellow fever endemic country), Bolivian health officials may ask for the certificate. Get vaccinated and carry the certificate to avoid any hassle.
No, the visa on arrival fee is paid in cash only. ATMs are available at the airport, but they may not always work with foreign cards. Bring the exact amount in USD to be safe.
Immigration may deny entry if you can't show proof of onward travel. It's a standard requirement. If you're planning to leave by land, you might need to show a bus ticket or explain your plans, but a return flight is the safest option.
Yes, you can also get a visa on arrival at major land border crossings, such as Desaguadero (from Peru) or Villazón (from Argentina). The process is similar, but it's always a good idea to have cash and documents ready.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on August 6, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.