Frequently asked questions about the dollar in Bolivia
Frequently asked questions
What is the dollar rate in Bolivia today?
Parallel (P2P): buy Bs 12.29, sell Bs 12.46. Official (BCB): Bs 12.26. Both update automatically on our home page.
Why are there two exchange rates?
The official rate is published by the Central Bank from bank transactions. The parallel rate is the market price outside banks, mostly USDT traded on P2P platforms. Today the gap is 1.6%.
Is the boliviano still fixed at 6.96?
No. Bolivia moved to a flexible exchange rate on June 29, 2026.
What is the most a bank can charge me for dollars?
The official rate plus 10 centavos: Bs 12.36 today. If you are charged more, complain to the bank and then to ASFI (toll-free 800-103-103).
Where should I exchange money as a tourist?
At banks or exchange houses licensed by ASFI, which must post their prices. Avoid street changers for large amounts. See travel money.
Should I pay by card in my home currency or in bolivianos?
If a terminal offers your home currency, the merchant sets the rate (dynamic currency conversion). You must be given the choice before entering your PIN. Paying in bolivianos usually lets your own bank convert.
How much cash can I bring into Bolivia?
Declare USD 10,000 to 50,000 on Customs Form 250 when entering; above that, use regulated institutions. When leaving, declare USD 10,000 to 20,000. Undeclared cash is fined 30% of the difference.
Is it legal to buy USDT in Bolivia?
Yes. Since June 26, 2024 (Central Bank resolution 082/2024) banks can process payments to buy and sell virtual assets. Crypto is not legal tender and has no state guarantee.
How is the parallel rate calculated?
Every 5 minutes we take the median of the first 10 public USDT/BOB ads on each side at Binance, Bybit, OKX, Bitget and MEXC, then the median across platforms.
Can I withdraw my dollars from a Bolivian bank?
Yes, in stages set by the Central Bank according to your balance, from July 2026 to July 2027 for individuals. Withdrawals are voluntary.
Is there still a tax on dollar transactions?
No. Law 1717 of April 10, 2026 abolished the 0.30% financial transactions tax (ITF).
Is Bolivia a dollarized economy?
No. The boliviano is the only legal tender. In March 2024, about 90% of deposits and 99.3% of loans were in bolivianos, according to ASFI.
What is the UFV?
The Unidad de Fomento de Vivienda is a daily index published by the Central Bank, based on consumer prices, used to keep amounts in bolivianos up to date with inflation (for example in tax debts and some contracts).
How do I spot a fake US dollar bill?
Feel the slightly rough paper, tilt the note (color-shifting numeral on $10 and up, 3-D ribbon on the $100) and check the watermark and security thread against the light.