RIGHTS OF IMMIGRANTS IN BOLIVIA: A LEGAL AND PRACTICAL OVERVIEW

RIGHTS OF FOREIGN NATIONALS IN BOLIVIA

Foreign migrants in Bolivia enjoy the same rights as Bolivian citizens, as established in the Constitution and other national laws. These rights cover various areas of daily life, promoting dignity and social integration. Key rights include:

1. Right to migrate: Guaranteed under principles of equality and reciprocity, this right ensures free movement and legal residency within Bolivia under its legal framework.
2. Access to healthcare: Includes sexual and reproductive rights, ensuring quality medical care for migrants.
3. Adequate housing: Migrants have the right to dignified living conditions, essential for a safe and stable life.
4. Work and social security: Migrants may engage in paid work, either self-employed or under employment contracts, and access basic social benefits.
5. Education: Access to basic and higher education is guaranteed, supporting personal and professional development.
6. Right to petition: Migrants may submit individual or collective petitions and are entitled to receive timely responses from the authorities.
7. Freedom of residence and movement: Includes the right to live and move freely throughout the Bolivian territory.
8. Family reunification: Migrants may bring immediate family members, including spouses, dependent children, and parents.
9. Political participation: In specific cases, migrants may vote in municipal elections according to applicable regulations.
10. International protection: Migrants may seek asylum under treaties and agreements ratified by Bolivia.
11. Fundamental freedoms: Includes freedom of thought, religion, worship, and expression, subject to specific limitations related to national security or incitement to hatred.
12. Gender-based violence prevention: Special protections are in place for migrant women facing vulnerability or abuse.

FOREIGN NATIONAL ID CARD

As part of its commitment to inclusion and equal rights, Bolivia offers an indefinite validity foreign national ID card to residents over the age of 60 who have held permanent residency for more than 15 years. This benefit strengthens legal security and social integration for long-term migrants.

SPECIFIC LIMITATIONS

Although rights such as freedom of expression and thought are protected, the following restrictions may apply:

• National security concerns
• Political propaganda or involvement in armed conflicts
• Advocacy of racial, religious, or national hatred that promotes discrimination or violence

REFLECTION ON IMMIGRANTS’ RIGHTS

Bolivia’s legal framework places special emphasis on protecting and guaranteeing the rights of migrants, offering conditions that promote integration and well-being. These legal provisions not only reinforce social cohesion but also support mutual respect and cultural diversity, key values within the Bolivian state.

If you are seeking to regularize your migration status or need additional information, our legal team is available to provide personalized assistance.