HOW TO OBTAIN BOLIVIAN NATIONALITY AND CITIZENSHIP

WAYS TO ACQUIRE BOLIVIAN NATIONALITY

Bolivian nationality can be acquired in two main ways: by birth or through naturalization.

1. NATIONALITY BY BIRTH

The following individuals are considered Bolivians by birth:

Born in Bolivian territory:
Anyone born within Bolivian territory is Bolivian by birth, except those whose parents are foreign diplomats on official mission.

Example:
Juan was born in Santa Cruz de la Sierra to Argentine parents who are not in Bolivia as diplomats. Therefore, Juan is Bolivian by birth.

Born abroad to a Bolivian mother or father:
People born outside of Bolivia may acquire Bolivian nationality if at least one parent is Bolivian.

Example:
María was born in Spain, but her mother is Bolivian. María has the right to Bolivian nationality by birth and may apply for a Bolivian ID.

2. NATIONALITY BY NATURALIZATION

Foreign nationals may obtain Bolivian nationality through naturalization if they meet the following requirements:

• Have more than three years of continuous legal residence in Bolivia, under the supervision of the State.
• Formally express the desire to obtain Bolivian nationality.
• Fulfill the requirements set by immigration law.

Special cases: The required residence period is reduced to two years if:

• The foreign individual has a Bolivian spouse, children, or adoptive parents.
  Example: Pedro, a Colombian citizen, is married to a Bolivian and lives in La Paz. After two years of legal residence, he can apply for Bolivian nationality.
• The person has served in the Bolivian military under current regulations.
  Example: Lucas, a young Peruvian citizen, enlisted in Bolivia’s military service. After two years, he is entitled to apply for nationality.
• The person receives Bolivian nationality as an honorary distinction granted by the Plurinational Legislative Assembly for outstanding service to the country.
  Example: A foreign scientist who has significantly contributed to Bolivian research may be granted nationality as recognition.

DUAL NATIONALITY AND MAINTENANCE OF BOLIVIAN NATIONALITY

• Bolivian nationals who marry foreigners do not lose their original nationality.
• Bolivians who acquire a foreign nationality also retain their Bolivian nationality.
• Foreign nationals who acquire Bolivian nationality are not required to renounce their nationality of origin.

Example: Andrea, a Bolivian citizen, married a French national and acquired French nationality. However, she still retains her Bolivian nationality and full rights as a citizen.

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN NATIONALITY AND CITIZENSHIP

All Bolivians are nationals, but full citizenship is exercised from the age of 18. This includes:

1. Participating in elections: As a voter or as a candidate for public office.
2. Holding public office: Accessing public positions based solely on merit, unless otherwise stated by law.

Suspension of citizenship rights:
Citizenship rights may be suspended in certain cases, such as:

• Serving in enemy armed forces during wartime.
• Embezzlement of public funds.
• Treason.

Example: A Bolivian public official convicted of corruption may temporarily lose their citizenship rights.