South America Visas
Table of Contents
South America is a land of adventure, rich culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re planning to hike, relax on a beach, or explore historic cities, it’s important to check the visa rules before you go. With each country having its own visa policy, let’s dig deep to learn the requirements.
Do You Need a Visa to Travel to South America?
Yes, but it depends on your nationality and the country you’re visiting. Many South American countries allow visa-free travel or Visa on Arrival for short stays, especially for tourists. Some countries also offer eVisas. However, others may require you to apply for a visa in advance. Always check the visa policy for your destination before you book your trip.
Argentina Visas
Whether you need an Argentina work visa or not depends on your nationality and the duration of your stay. First, you must know that there is a difference between Argentina work visa and Argentina…
Brazil Visas
If you stay in Brazil for up to 90 days in one year, then it is a short-stay visit. Many countries are exempt from Brazil short-stay visa. They can visit the country with their passport or travel…
Ecuador Visas
Ecuador is a country in South America famous for its largely intact Spanish roots, historical palaces, and religious sites. The Ecuadorian government has a very mild visa policy. Ecuador allows the nationals…
Colombian Visas
Colombia is a beautiful country in South America. Its people have access to both the Atlantic and Pacific ocean. Colombia has gorgeous beaches, world-class cities, and tourism and immigration industries…
Uruguay Visas
Uruguay, the Switzerland of South America, unspoiled coast, high standard of living, the birthplace of tango and many more wonders and opportunities from business, work and study…
South America Visa on Arrival Countries
Country | Max Stay | Notes |
Bolivia | 30–90 days | VoA available for citizens of several countries, including the U.S. |
Guyana | 30 days | VoA for travelers with approval or invitation from the Ministry |
Suriname | 90 days | Visa-free or VoA for most South American nationals; others need online entry fee payment |
Paraguay | 30–90 days | VoA for select nationalities including the U.S. and Canada |
South America eVisa Countries
Country | Max Stay | Notes |
Bolivia | 90 days | eVisa available online for tourism, business, and transit |
Suriname | 90 days | Travelers must pay an online entry fee and receive approval via email |
Colombia (in development) | TBD | Announced plans to expand eVisa system; currently for select purposes |
Common Documents Needed for a South America Visa
Each country has its own visa process, but these are the documents most travelers need when applying for a South American visa:
- Valid passport
- Completed visa application form (paper or online)
- Recent passport-size photo
- Proof of travel (flight booking or itinerary)
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
- Bank statements or proof of sufficient funds
- Travel insurance (may be required)
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (for some countries)
- Visa fee payment receipt
- Letter of invitation or travel purpose (if requested)
Facts About South America Continent
- Total area: About 17.84 million km²
- Number of countries: 12 independent countries
- Population: Around 437 million people (2024 estimate)
- Languages spoken: Over 450 languages
- Biggest country by area: Brazil (about 8.5 million km²)
- Most populated country: Brazil (over 215 million people)
- Highest mountain: Aconcagua in Argentina – 6,961 meters
- Longest river: Amazon River – about 6,400 kilometers
- Largest lake: Lake Titicaca (shared by Bolivia and Peru)
List of South American Countries
Country | Capital | Area (km²) |
Argentina | Buenos Aires | 2,780,400 |
Bolivia | Sucre (constitutional), La Paz (administrative) | 1,098,581 |
Brazil | Brasília | 8,515,767 |
Chile | Santiago | 756,102 |
Colombia | Bogotá | 1,141,748 |
Ecuador | Quito | 283,561 |
Guyana | Georgetown | 214,970 |
Paraguay | Asunción | 406,752 |
Peru | Lima | 1,285,216 |
Suriname | Paramaribo | 163,820 |
Uruguay | Montevideo | 176,215 |
Venezuela | Caracas | 912,050 |
Most Spoken Languages in South America
- Spanish: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela
- Portuguese: Brazil
- Quechua: Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, Colombia, Argentina
- Aymara: Bolivia, Peru
- Guaraní: Paraguay, Bolivia, Argentina, Brazil
- English: Guyana
- Dutch: Suriname
- French: French Guiana (territory of France)
- Creole (Sranan Tongo and others): Suriname, French Guiana
- Wayuu: Colombia, Venezuela
Best Countries to Visit in South America
South America is known for its stunning nature, vibrant culture, and historic cities. Here are the top countries travelers love to visit:
- Brazil is the most visited country in South America, with over 6 million visitors annually (pre-pandemic). Travelers come for Rio de Janeiro, the Amazon rainforest, Iguazu Falls, and cultural festivals like Carnival.
- Argentina attracts visitors with its diverse landscapes (Patagonia’s glaciers to the wine regions of Mendoza). Buenos Aires is known for tango, European-style architecture, and nightlife.
- Peru is famous for Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and Inca heritage. It also offers rainforest tours and highland cities like Cusco and Arequipa.
- Colombia has grown into a top destination with beautiful beaches, coffee regions, colonial towns, and major cities like Bogotá and Medellín.
- Chile is popular for its long coastline, deserts like Atacama, and mountain landscapes in Patagonia. It’s a favorite for hikers and nature lovers.
- Ecuador offers rich biodiversity, the Galápagos Islands, and Andean cities like Quito and Cuenca. It’s a compact country that’s easy to explore.
Top Tourist Attractions in South America
South America is home to some of the world’s most iconic natural and historical sites. These are among the top attractions visitors shouldn’t miss:
Machu Picchu, Peru
This ancient Inca city sits high in the Andes and is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It’s South America’s most visited historic site.
Christ the Redeemer, Brazil
Overlooking Rio de Janeiro, this massive statue is a global symbol of Brazil and one of the most recognized landmarks on the continent.
Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil
One of the largest and most powerful waterfall systems in the world, shared between Argentina and Brazil. Visitors can view the falls from both sides.
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
These volcanic islands are famous for unique wildlife and were the inspiration for Darwin’s theory of evolution. Ideal for ecotourism and snorkeling.
Patagonia, Argentina and Chile
Known for its mountains, glaciers, and rugged terrain, Patagonia is a paradise for outdoor adventurers and nature photographers.
Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
The world’s largest salt flat. It becomes a mirror-like surface during the rainy season and offers stunning, surreal landscapes.
Lake Titicaca, Peru/Bolivia
The highest navigable lake in the world, home to traditional communities and floating reed islands.
Cartagena, Colombia
A colonial city on the Caribbean coast known for its colorful buildings, cobbled streets, and vibrant culture.
