Get Your Uruguay Visa Online
Fast, secure visa processing for tourism, business, and unforgettable adventures in Uruguay
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Uruguay Visa
Simple 4-step process — most applications approved within 5-10 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our comprehensive application form with your personal details, travel plans, and purpose of visit. Our intelligent validation system guides you through each section, checking for common errors and ensuring your application meets Uruguay's Direccion Nacional de Migracion requirements for tourist, business, or other visa categories.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible), a recent passport-sized photograph, proof of accommodation, return flight booking, and financial documentation. Our visa specialists review every document against Uruguayan immigration standards before submission, significantly reducing the risk of rejection or delays.
3
We submit to Uruguayan Immigration
Your verified application is transmitted to Uruguay's official immigration portal. We monitor processing status in real-time and proactively communicate any updates, requests for additional documentation, or status changes via email and SMS notifications throughout the entire process.
4
Receive your visa approval
Your approved Uruguay visa arrives as a PDF document or visa sticker notification depending on your nationality. Print any required documents clearly and present them at Uruguayan immigration along with your passport. Bienvenido a Uruguay — welcome to the land of gauchos, beaches, and exceptional hospitality!
Uruguay Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
For leisure travel, sightseeing, and visiting friends or family
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For commercial activities, meetings, and trade exploration
Transit Visa
Up to 72 hours
For travelers connecting through Uruguayan airports
Work Visa
Varies by contract
For employment with Uruguayan companies and organizations
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages
- Passport photo 4x4cm, white background, recent
- Hotel booking or invitation letter from host
- Round-trip flight itinerary or onward travel proof
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- Travel insurance covering medical emergencies
Visa Policy
Uruguay maintains one of the most welcoming visa policies in South America, allowing citizens of many countries to enter visa-free for tourism and short business visits. Citizens of the United States, Canada, European Union member states, United Kingdom, Australia, and many other countries can enter Uruguay without a visa for stays up to 90 days.
For nationalities requiring visas, Uruguay offers several categories through its Direccion Nacional de Migracion. The tourist visa is the most common, allowing visitors to explore Montevideo, Punta del Este, Colonia del Sacramento, and the scenic wine regions. Business visas accommodate professionals attending meetings, conferences, or exploring commercial opportunities. Both visa types typically allow stays of up to 90 days with possible extension.
Uruguay participates in the Mercosur agreement, which provides simplified entry for citizens of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Venezuela. These travelers can enter using only their national ID cards, without requiring a passport.
Visa Requirements
Essential Documentation
All Uruguay visa applicants must meet these fundamental requirements:
• Passport validity: Minimum 6 months beyond your intended arrival date with at least two blank pages for stamps
• Photograph specifications: Recent color photo (4x4cm) with white background, taken within the last 6 months, neutral expression, no glasses
• Proof of accommodation: Hotel reservations, Airbnb booking confirmations, or invitation letter from Uruguayan host with their cedula number
• Financial documentation: Bank statements from the last 3 months showing sufficient funds, approximately $80 USD per day of stay
• Travel itinerary: Round-trip flight bookings or proof of onward travel
• Travel insurance: Policy covering medical emergencies and repatriation valid for your entire stay
Additional Requirements by Visa Type
Business visa applicants need an invitation letter from the Uruguayan company on official letterhead, company registration documents, and a letter from their employer explaining the business purpose. Work visa applicants require a job offer from a Uruguayan employer and additional documentation from the Ministry of Labor.
Application Process
Step-by-Step Application Guide
The Uruguay visa application process varies depending on your nationality and the type of visa required. Most applicants will follow these general steps:
1. Determine visa requirements: Check if your nationality requires a visa for Uruguay. Many countries have visa-free access for stays up to 90 days.
2. Gather required documents: Collect all necessary documentation including passport, photos, financial proof, accommodation booking, and travel insurance.
3. Complete the application form: Fill out the visa application form online or obtain it from the nearest Uruguayan consulate. Ensure all information matches your passport exactly.
4. Schedule an appointment: Book an appointment at the Uruguayan consulate in your country. Some consulates accept walk-ins while others require advance scheduling.
5. Attend the interview: Present your documents at the consulate. Some applicants may be asked questions about their travel plans and ties to their home country.
Processing times typically range from 5-15 business days depending on the consulate and visa type. We recommend applying at least 4 weeks before your intended travel date.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit Uruguay
Uruguay enjoys a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summer (December-February) is peak season with warm weather perfect for beaches, though expect crowds in Punta del Este. Autumn (March-May) offers pleasant temperatures and grape harvest festivals in wine country. Spring (September-November) sees beautiful blooms and comfortable weather for exploring Montevideo and Colonia.
Currency and Payments
Uruguay uses the Uruguayan Peso (UYU). US Dollars and Argentine Pesos are widely accepted in tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted in most establishments in cities, though carry cash for smaller towns and markets. ATMs are readily available in urban areas.
Getting Around
Domestic buses connect major cities efficiently and comfortably. Ferries link Montevideo and Colonia with Buenos Aires, Argentina. In Montevideo, buses provide extensive urban transport. For exploring the countryside and wine regions, renting a car offers the most flexibility. Uber operates in Montevideo.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
1,000+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.8Customer rating
98%Approval rate
"DoVisa made my Uruguay visa application effortless. Approved in just 6 days! Now enjoying mate on the beaches of Punta del Este. Highly recommend!"
"Excellent service from start to finish. The document checklist was clear and support answered my questions within hours. Colonia was worth the trip!"
"Good experience overall. Processing took about 9 days which was acceptable. Communication could be more frequent but got the visa without issues."
"Business visa for a conference in Montevideo sorted quickly. The invitation letter guidance was particularly helpful. Will use DoVisa again!"
"First time visiting South America and DoVisa made everything simple. Great support team and fast processing. Uruguay exceeded all expectations!"
"Reliable service. Had to submit one additional document but support guided me through it. Visa approved after 11 days. Would recommend."
"The wine tasting in Carmelo was incredible! Thanks DoVisa for the smooth visa process. Quick approval and excellent customer service throughout."
"Applied for family of three and DoVisa handled everything professionally. All approved together in 7 days. Montevideo here we come!"
"Third time using DoVisa for South American trips. They consistently deliver great service. Uruguay was a hidden gem thanks to their help!"
Uruguay Visa FAQs
Do I need a visa to visit Uruguay?
Visa requirements for Uruguay depend on your nationality. Citizens of the United States, Canada, European Union member states, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and many other countries can enter Uruguay visa-free for stays up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. However, citizens of certain countries in Asia, Africa, and other regions must obtain a visa before travel. Check the Uruguayan Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or contact the nearest consulate to confirm requirements for your specific nationality. Even visa-exempt travelers must have a passport valid for at least 6 months and may need to show proof of return travel and sufficient funds.
What types of visas are available for Uruguay?
Uruguay offers several visa categories to accommodate different travel purposes. Tourist visas allow stays up to 90 days for leisure, sightseeing, and visiting friends or family. Business visas permit commercial activities including meetings, conferences, and trade exploration. Transit visas are available for travelers passing through Uruguay en route to other destinations. Work visas (Residencia Temporaria) are required for employment with Uruguayan companies. Student visas accommodate academic programs at Uruguayan institutions. Retirement visas are available for retirees meeting income requirements. Each visa type has specific requirements and validity periods.
How long does Uruguay visa processing take?
Uruguay visa processing times vary depending on the visa type, consulate location, and current demand. Tourist and business visas typically take 5-15 business days from the date of application submission. Some consulates may process applications faster, while others during peak travel seasons may take longer. Work visas require additional processing through Uruguayan authorities and can take 4-8 weeks. Recommendations: Apply at least 4 weeks before your intended travel date; ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays; respond promptly to any requests for additional information. DoVisa tracks your application status and keeps you informed throughout the process.
What documents do I need for a Uruguay visa application?
Core requirements for all visa types: Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages; completed visa application form; recent passport-sized photograph (4x4cm, white background); proof of accommodation in Uruguay; round-trip flight itinerary; travel insurance with medical coverage; proof of sufficient funds (bank statements). Additional requirements by visa type: Tourist visas may require a detailed travel itinerary. Business visas need an invitation letter from the Uruguayan company and employer support letter. Work visas require a job offer, employment contract, and documentation from the Uruguayan Ministry of Labor. Student visas need enrollment confirmation from the educational institution.
Can I extend my stay in Uruguay?
Yes, Uruguay allows visitors to extend their stay under certain conditions. For visa-free visitors and tourist visa holders, you can request a 90-day extension at the Direccion Nacional de Migracion offices in Montevideo or departmental capitals. The extension fee is approximately $50 USD. Alternatively, you can exit and re-enter Uruguay from Argentina or Brazil to reset your 90-day allowance. Important: Extension requests should be submitted before your current authorized stay expires. Overstaying can result in fines and may affect future visa applications. For longer stays, consider applying for a temporary residence visa.
Do I need travel insurance for Uruguay?
While travel insurance is not strictly mandatory for all visitors to Uruguay, it is strongly recommended and may be required for visa applicants from certain countries. Uruguayan immigration officials may ask to see proof of travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. Uruguay's healthcare system is excellent in Montevideo but can be expensive for foreigners. Recommended coverage: Minimum $30,000 USD medical coverage; emergency medical evacuation; trip cancellation/interruption; coverage valid for your entire stay plus a few extra days. Many credit cards offer travel insurance — check your card benefits before purchasing additional coverage.
What are the photo requirements for a Uruguay visa?
Uruguay has specific requirements for visa photographs: Size: 4x4 centimeters (approximately 1.5x1.5 inches). Background: Plain white or light gray background with no patterns or shadows. Recency: Taken within the last 6 months. Expression: Neutral expression with mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible. Head position: Face centered, looking directly at camera. Glasses: Remove glasses; if medically necessary, ensure no glare on lenses. Head covering: Only permitted for religious reasons, face must remain fully visible. Quality: High resolution, properly lit, printed on photo-quality paper. DoVisa reviews your photo before submission to ensure it meets all requirements.
Can I work in Uruguay with a tourist visa?
No, tourist visas and visa-free entry do not permit employment in Uruguay. Working without proper authorization is illegal and can result in deportation, fines, and future entry bans. To work legally in Uruguay, you need a Work Visa (Residencia Temporaria) which requires: job offer from a Uruguayan employer; employment contract; documentation from the Ministry of Labor; employer sponsorship. The process typically takes 4-8 weeks and should be initiated before arrival. Digital nomads: Uruguay has become increasingly popular for remote workers. While no specific digital nomad visa exists, those working remotely for foreign companies often enter on tourist visas — though this exists in a legal gray area.
What vaccinations do I need for Uruguay?
Uruguay does not require any specific vaccinations for entry from most countries. However, a Yellow Fever vaccination is required if you are arriving from or have transited through a yellow fever endemic country (parts of Africa and South America). The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before arrival. Recommended vaccinations include: Hepatitis A and B; Typhoid (especially if visiting rural areas); Tetanus-Diphtheria booster if not current. Uruguay is considered low-risk for tropical diseases. Consult a travel medicine specialist 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized advice based on your health history and travel itinerary.
What is the best time to visit Uruguay?
Uruguay enjoys a temperate climate that makes it pleasant to visit year-round. Summer (December-February): Peak beach season with temperatures around 25-30C. Punta del Este fills with tourists and prices rise. Perfect for beach lovers. Autumn (March-May): Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and grape harvest celebrations in wine country. Great for wine tours. Winter (June-August): Mild temperatures around 10-15C. Quiet beaches but ideal for Montevideo city exploration and cultural activities. Spring (September-November): Beautiful blooms, comfortable weather, and fewer tourists. Excellent for outdoor activities and visiting Colonia del Sacramento.
How much money do I need to show for a Uruguay visa?
Uruguay requires proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay. While there's no official minimum amount, immigration typically expects approximately $80 USD per day of your intended stay. Acceptable proof includes: Bank statements from the last 3 months; credit card statements; letter from employer stating salary; sponsorship letter from Uruguayan host with their financial documentation. For a typical 2-week tourist visit, showing approximately $1,200-1,500 USD in available funds is generally sufficient. Business travelers may need to show additional proof that their company or the inviting Uruguayan organization will cover expenses.
What happens if my Uruguay visa is rejected?
Uruguay visa rejections are relatively uncommon but can occur. Common rejection reasons include: incomplete documentation; insufficient financial proof; unclear travel purpose; previous immigration violations; concerns about intent to overstay. If rejected: You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the rejection reasons. There is no formal appeals process, but fresh applications are considered on their own merits. Request feedback from the consulate on what was lacking. Prevention tips: Ensure all documents are complete and properly translated if not in Spanish; provide clear travel itinerary; demonstrate strong ties to your home country; include comprehensive financial documentation. DoVisa's pre-submission review helps identify and address potential issues before they cause rejections.
Do children need their own Uruguay visa?
Yes, every traveler including infants and children requires their own visa or visa-free entry eligibility. Children cannot be included on a parent's visa. Additional requirements for minors: Children traveling with only one parent must carry a notarized authorization letter from the absent parent (translated into Spanish). Unaccompanied minors need notarized consent from both parents plus additional documentation. Birth certificate may be requested to prove parental relationship. Application process: Parents typically apply for children's visas simultaneously with their own. Each child receives separate documentation. DoVisa allows group applications for families traveling together.
What currency is used in Uruguay and can I use credit cards?
Uruguay's official currency is the Uruguayan Peso (UYU). US Dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, especially in Punta del Este and Colonia, often at favorable rates. Argentine Pesos are also commonly accepted near the border. Credit cards: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and hotels. American Express is less common. Some establishments may charge a small fee for card payments. ATMs: Readily available throughout Montevideo and tourist areas with reasonable withdrawal limits. Major banks include BROU, Santander, and BBVA. Recommendations: Carry some local currency for smaller purchases; notify your bank before travel; have backup payment methods.
Is Uruguay safe for tourists?
Uruguay is generally considered the safest country in South America for tourists. Safe areas: Most tourist destinations including Montevideo's Ciudad Vieja, Pocitos, Carrasco, Punta del Este, and Colonia del Sacramento have excellent security. Precautions: Standard travel safety applies — avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics in less touristy areas; use registered taxis or Uber; keep copies of important documents. Petty theft can occur in crowded areas but violent crime against tourists is rare. Practical advice: The Ciudad Vieja area of Montevideo can be less secure after dark; stay in well-lit areas. Emergency numbers: Police 911, Tourist Police (+598 2 152 0125). Travel insurance is recommended.
Can I travel between Uruguay and Argentina easily?
Yes, travel between Uruguay and Argentina is very convenient. Ferry services: Buquebus and Colonia Express operate regular ferries between Montevideo/Colonia and Buenos Aires. The Colonia-Buenos Aires route takes about 1 hour by fast ferry. Montevideo-Buenos Aires takes approximately 2.5 hours. Bus services: Direct buses connect Montevideo with Buenos Aires via the Fray Bentos-Gualeguaychu bridge (8-10 hours). Flights: Short flights operate between Montevideo and Buenos Aires. Border requirements: Mercosur citizens can cross with just national ID cards. Other nationalities need passports. Immigration checks occur at each crossing. Make sure you have proper documentation for both countries.
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