Bolivia, US, and Israel Tourism Boom: Paz Scraps Visa Walls, Ushering in a New Era of Open Doors

Published on December 2, 2025

For nearly two decades, a wall stood between Bolivia, the United States, and Israel. That wall was the tourism visa. Now, under the bold leadership of President Rodrigo Paz, that barrier is gone. On December 1, 2025, Bolivia threw open its doors. A new, hopeful chapter for travelers begins today. This dramatic policy shift is not just about paperwork. It is an emotional invitation. It is a promise of welcome to the world.

Passport Power: Visa-Free Entry Unlocked

The announcement is simple and powerful. The new Bolivian government has eliminated the mandatory visa for several nations. This list prominently includes citizens from the United States and Israel. Travelers from South Korea, South Africa, and several Eastern European countries also benefit.

The effect is immediate and transformative. US and Israeli citizens only need a valid passport to enter Bolivia. They can enjoy tourist stays for up to 90 days. The previous process was cumbersome and expensive. It cost US travelers a high fee. The new policy cuts red tape instantly. It makes exploring Bolivia easy and accessible.

This move is a direct economic strategy. Government officials are clear about the goal. They want to reignite the national tourism sector. Bolivia has incredible, untapped natural beauty. Think of the dazzling Salar de Uyuni salt flats. Imagine the history of La Paz and Sucre. The government believes this visa-free entry will attract masses of new visitors. They estimate the country lost $900 million since the old restrictions began. They project this new policy will bring in $80 million in new tourism revenue. This is critical for the nation’s economic progress.

Reversing Two Decades of Restriction

This decision by President Paz is a monumental reversal. It directly counters the policies of the previous socialist governments. The Movement Toward Socialism (MAS) party ruled for years. Under former President Evo Morales and later Luis Arce, relations soured.

Morales’s administration heightened anti-American sentiment. In 2007, they imposed the visa restrictions on US citizens. This was often justified as “reciprocity.” The Bolivian government felt the US visa process for their citizens was unfair.

Relations with Israel were even more strained. Morales severed diplomatic ties not once, but twice. He first cut ties in 2009. He did so again in 2023. In 2014, Morales canceled the visa waiver agreement for Israeli travelers. He forced them to apply for entry visas. These tough measures severely curtailed tourism from two key traveling nations.

The interim government of Jeanine Áñez briefly eased these rules. However, Luis Arce quickly reinstated the strict policies upon taking office in 2020. His government again cut ties with Israel in 2023. This back-and-forth created uncertainty for travelers.

A Conservative Shift for Economic Progress

President Paz’s election signaled a massive political shift. It ended almost two decades of MAS rule. His government favors a conservative, center-right approach. Diplomatic renewal is a top priority for his administration.

The elimination of visa requirements is just the first step. The Paz government plans to fully restore diplomatic relations with both the US and Israel. This signals a desire for global engagement.

This diplomatic push is deeply linked to the economy. Bolivia currently faces a severe shortage of U.S. dollars. This shortage has severely impacted imports. It has slowed down the entire national economy. Boosting international tourism is seen as a fast, effective solution. More tourists bring more hard currency. This currency injection is vital for economic stability.

A government spokesperson stated the policy change reflects “a belief in international friendship and economic openness.” The Paz administration is committed to making Bolivia a premier destination. They want visitors to experience its culture and landscape. This visa change removes a major headache for tourists. It lowers the barrier to entry significantly.

The Invitation to Explore

The world is changing, and Bolivia is changing with it. The nation is extending a genuine, heartfelt invitation. No more long forms. No more high fees. Simply grab your passport and go. Discover the majesty of the Andes Mountains. Walk across the stunning, white expanse of the salt flats. Experience the vibrant indigenous cultures. Bolivia is ready for travelers from the United States and Israel.

This is more than a policy shift. It is a moment of political and economic hope. The government of President Paz believes that tourism can heal the economy. They believe openness can mend old diplomatic wounds. For the traveler, this is the perfect moment. The doors are open. Come and see the beauty of Bolivia.