Residence permit renewal in Bolivia

Start 90 days ahead

To allow for gathering documents, potential appointment scheduling, and processing time by the migration authority.

The process

1. 1Verify the specific requirements for the type of residence permit being renewed on the official DIGEMIG website.
2. 2Gather all necessary original documents and their respective photocopies, ensuring they are current and valid.
3. 3Obtain any required certifications, legalizations, or translations of foreign documents, if applicable.
4. 4Complete the official application form for the extension of residence, which may be available online or at DIGEMIG offices.
5. 5Pay the corresponding fees, typically at authorized banks, and retain proof of payment.
6. 6Submit the complete application package, including all documents and proof of payment, to the nearest DIGEMIG office or as otherwise instructed.
7. 7Attend any scheduled interviews or provide additional information if requested by DIGEMIG.
8. 8Track the status of the application, if a tracking mechanism is provided, and await notification of approval or further action.

What to bring

• Original and photocopy of a valid passport, with sufficient remaining validity.
• Original and photocopy of the current residence permit (cédula de extranjero).
• Proof of legal entry into Bolivia (e.g., immigration stamp in passport).
• Proof of financial solvency or means of subsistence in Bolivia, according to the permit type.
• Proof of domicile in Bolivia (e.g., utility bill, rental agreement).
• Police or criminal record certificate from Bolivia and potentially from the country of origin, if required for the permit type.
• Photographs meeting DIGEMIG specifications (e.g., passport-sized, white background).
• Original receipt of payment for the renewal fee.
• Any other specific documents relevant to the category of residence being renewed (e.g., marriage certificate for family reunification, employment contract for work visa).

Who handles it

Dirección General de Migración (DIGEMIG)

https://www.migracion.gob.bo/index.php/tramites/prorrogas

The cost for renewing a residence permit in Bolivia varies depending on the type of residence (e.g., temporal, indefinida) and its validity period. Current fees are typically published on the DIGEMIG website under the 'Trámites' or 'Tasas Migratorias' sections and are paid in Bolivian Bolivianos (BOB).

What commonly goes wrong

• Ensure all required documents are current and valid, as expired documents can lead to delays or rejection.
• Verify whether foreign documents require apostille or legalization and official translation into Spanish.
• Be aware of the specific application deadlines, as submitting an application after the current permit's expiry may incur fines or require a new visa process.
• Confirm payment methods and locations for fees, as some payments may require specific bank deposits rather than direct payment at the migration office.

Sources

This guide is based on one official source.

• Prorrogas de Permanencia - Dirección General de Migración migracion.gob.bo