Good news for anyone dreaming up a South American adventure: for holders of US, Canadian, British, Australian, New Zealand and most EU passports, the great majority of the continent is visa-free for tourism — and the few countries that do ask for paperwork keep it simple. Each country sets its own rules, though, so it’s worth a quick check for every destination on your itinerary (and for anywhere you transit on the way).
Visa-free on arrival for tourism (typically up to 90 days): Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay — plus French Guiana (which, as part of France, follows EU/Schengen rules). Bolivia and Paraguay both dropped their visa requirements recently, so the continent is more open than it has been in years.
Arrange a quick e-Visa before you travel for two countries:
Don’t forget the free entry forms: Colombia asks every traveler to complete the online Check-Mig form, and Bolivia the SIGEMIG pre-registration, in the days before you arrive. They’re quick and free — but skipping them is a common cause of airport delays.
One to research carefully: Venezuela — no tourist visa is required, but please review the current travel advisory before making any plans.
Yellow fever: A Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate (or an exemption certificate) may be required depending on your exact itinerary and the combination of countries you visit — particularly for the Amazon and other tropical regions. Check well ahead of your trip and allow at least 10 days for the vaccine to take effect.
For the latest official requirements you can also check IATA Travel Centre or Traveldoc — and of course, we’ll always confirm the exact requirements for your specific route before you travel.
