Moving to La Paz

Documentation

You must present the following documentation to ACS Calvert when you arrive in La Paz so we can begin the process of applying for your resident work visa. Documentation is divided into two stages: what you must bring with you when you travel, and what you will need to submit once you are settled in La Paz.

Part 1 – Bring with you when you travel:

1. Passport Your passport must be valid for at least two years from the start of your contract (August 2026) for each member of your family traveling to Bolivia. If you do not already have a passport, apply for one immediately . If your passport does not meet the validity requirement, it is strongly recommended that you renew it before your departure. You may, however, renew it at your country's embassy or consulate in Bolivia if necessary.

2. Birth Certificates You must bring one original of birth certificate for all family members traveling to Bolivia. For children, two certified copies are required — both must include an "Apostille", which is an official authenticating certificate issued by the relevant government authority in the country where the birth certificate was issued, and must be attached to each certified copy before your departure. For adult family members, a single original birth certificate is sufficient and does not need to be apostilled. 

3. Vaccination Records Bring complete vaccination records for your children. It is recommended that you consult your doctor well in advance of your departure to ensure all required immunizations are up to date for international travel and living in Bolivia. Please note that a Yellow Fever vaccination is required for entry into Bolivia if you are traveling from or through a yellow fever endemic country. Even if not required based on your travel route, it is strongly recommended as Bolivia has yellow fever risk zones, particularly in lowland and jungle regions. Ensure this vaccination is recorded in your international vaccination booklet (Yellow Card).

4. Copy of Medical Clearance You must complete a medical clearance confirming that you are medically fit to live and work at high altitude. La Paz sits at approximately 3,600 meters (11,800 feet) above sea level, and altitude-related health conditions are a genuine consideration. Please use the Medical Clearance template for guidance on what the document should include.

5. Airport Arrival – Important reminders:

• Do not lose your baggage receipts/tickets — you will need them to claim and leave the airport with your bags.

• Bring at least $5 USD in cash to tip the airport porter who will assist you with your luggage.

• Keep and safeguard your customs declaration forms received upon entry — you may be asked to present them.

• Bring an unlocked mobile phone so you can use a local SIM card upon arrival.

Part 2 – Submit once established in La Paz:

6. Teaching Certificate A copy of your valid teaching certificate(s) must be submitted to ACS as part of your employment documentation.

7. Copy of Diploma Provide a copy of the diploma for your highest academic degree earned.

8. Academic Credentials: Please provide copies of your university transcripts and degrees. For verification purposes, you may either provide certified copies or bring the original documents to our office so we can verify them against the copies 

9. Voided Check A voided check from your bank account is required for direct deposit setup through ACS's banking partner. Please refer to the Business Office section for more details on salary payment arrangements.