A Guide To Visa Requirements To South America With An American Passport

July 04, 2022 | by: Nadia Vizcarra

A  luxury vacation to South America means leaving the travel planning to the experts and enjoying a personalized, curated itinerary that is custom-tailored to your vacation preferences – whether you’re looking to explore charming colonial cities or adventure through the Amazon rainforest, trek through the Andes – and more. At Kuoda, we’ve broken down everything you need to know about visa requirements to South America for your upcoming trip to the continent’s most popular destinations. Before you depart on your once-in-a-lifetime journey through the diverse, naturally beautiful and exciting destinations that South America has to offer – you must ensure that your passport is valid, and that you obtain any visas or adhere to any entry and exit requirements of your destination. Read below the most essential visa information for your upcoming travels:

What to know regarding visa requirements to South America:

If you currently have a valid passport from the United States of America – you’re allowed into MOST South American countries, visa free for stays of 90 days or less. Most South American countries will require that your passport is valid at least 6 months from the time of travel. It is important to also ensure your passport has free pages available for stamps.

In many countries, immigration officers will ask proof of a return or onward travel, such as a plane ticket to ensure you do not plan to overstay the 90 days of visa on arrival. Always carry a copy of your passport, throughout your travels. Travelers should note that some countries require that you pay a departure tax upon exiting.

Peru

Visa Required: No, visa to travel valid for for 90 days

With astonishingly varied landscapes, stunning scenery, compelling history, and a legacy of fascinating cultures, Peru has gained notoriety as the crown jewel of South America’s travel destinations for good reason. Experience the stunning natural and cultural wonders of South America through a personalized luxury vacation to Peru from award winning travel designers who prioritize your comfort, style and personalized touches, every step of the way.

This country issues a free tourist visa to U.S. visitors upon arrival that is valid for stays of up to 90 days. Tourists must also show proof of return or onward travel.

Ecuador

Visa Required: No, visa to travel valid for for 90 days

From the exotic Galapagos Islands, to the high mountain peaks that feel like they’re touching the stars, the small nation of Ecuador is a stunning South American destination balanced right along the equator, offering travelers pleasant weather year round.

Americans can enter the country without a visa for stays of up to 90 days within any 12-month period, though immigration officials may ask to see proof of return travel. Exit taxes vary by airport and are generally added on to the cost of airfare.

Colombia

Visa Required: No, visa to travel valid for for 90 days

Experiencing the breathtaking natural beauty, charming colonial towns and quaint coffee farms of the truly magical country of Colombia offers travelers a chance to unwind, broaden their horizons and experience a place that takes you on a journey through time. Whether you’re looking to wander through the vibrant streets of the modern city of Bogota, with its world-class street art, experience the City of Eternal Spring – Medellin, or soak up the sunshine and natural parks near the colonial port city of Cartagena – Colombia is waiting to surprise you at every turn with its array of luxury travel opportunities.

Americans do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days, though foreign visitors who stay for more than 60 days must pay a departure airport fee of $38 USD.

Chile

Visa Required: No, visa to travel valid for for 90 days

Chile boasts diverse landscapes from parched dunes and fertile valleys to massive glaciers and the almighty Patagonia. For travelers, especially nature and adventure lovers – this is a destination with pristine wilderness and natural treasures unlike anywhere else on the planet. Famous for its wine, nature and hospitality – the Chileans will welcome you with open arms, a round of mate tea, and a relaxing atmosphere perfect for any luxury South American vacation.

Americans can travel to Chile without a visa for up to 90 days. Ensure your passport is valid for travel for at least 3 months.

Bolivia

Visa Required: Yes, visa to travel valid for 90 days

With its jaw-dropping natural beauty, astounding biodiversity, indigenous culture and gateway into the Amazon Rainforest, Bolivia is a unique and intriguing nation that often gets overlooked when it comes to South American travel.

Americans must obtain a visa to enter Bolivia, and can apply for a visa prior to travel at Bolivia’s five consulates in the United States but, in some circumstances, can get one at the country’s international airports and land-border crossings. For US passport holders, visas cost $160 USD and are valid for 10 years for stays of up to 90 days per year.

Those applying for a visa at a consulate must also provide an application and photo, proof of a round-trip plane ticket, a copy of a hotel reservation or invitation letter, and a bank statement. Bolivia also charges a $24 USD exit tax at international airports.

Argentina

Visa Required: No, visa to travel valid for for 90 days

The beautiful country of Argentina is metropolitan, seductive and rich in culture. From streetside tango and fútbol , gaucho culture and the mighty Andes mountains, Argentina has a plethora of destinations. The country that boasts the Andes’ highest snowbound peaks is also home to the modern metropolis of Buenos Aires, the roaring waters of Iguazú, the countryside vineyards of Mendoza and so much more.

To enter Argentina on a US passport, you must have a passport valid for at least 6 months after arriving in Argentina. The stamp on your passport serves as your tourist visa and indicates how long you can stay in the country.

Our website also has more details about the quickly changing exit and entry requirements – make sure to check here to ensure you’ll be able to prepare for the big travel day. Once you’ve prepared for the entry, exit and visa requirements to South America, contact us at Kuoda to plan out your custom dream itinerary. With a plethora of destinations and plenty to do, see, eat, and experience in each country – South America is truly the perfect destination to experience luxury, custom-tailored to you.