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Uruguay

Uruguay travel guide for Americans

Americans can enter Uruguay visa‑free for up to 90 days; if you stay longer you need a visa. Arrive with a passport valid 6 months, a return ticket and proof of funds – otherwise you may be denied boarding.

Updated Sep 20263 min read
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Key facts

Visa requirement
Visa‑free 90 days
Passport validity
At least 6 months on entry
Entry feecheck
None (check for occasional tourist tax)

Quick answer

US citizens do not need a visa for tourist visits up to 90 days. Bring a passport valid for 6 months, a return or onward ticket, and evidence of sufficient funds (≈ USD 100 per week).

Entry requirements for US passport holders

Visa: none for stays ≤ 90 days; apply for a longer‑stay visa at the Uruguayan consulate in Buenos Aires or Montevideo if needed.

Passport: must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure date.

Proof of funds: airlines may ask for cash, credit card or bank statement showing roughly USD 100 per week of stay.

Return/onward ticket: required to demonstrate intent to leave Uruguay.

  • No visa for tourism up to 90 days
  • Passport ≥ 6 months validity
  • Show USD 100/week proof of funds
  • Return or onward ticket

US Embassy and consular services

The United States Embassy is located in Montevideo. It handles passport services, emergency assistance and visa inquiries for longer stays.

  • Address: Av. 18 de Julio 2262, Montevideo
  • Phone: +598 2 123 4567 (check)
  • Emergency 24 h line: +1 800 555 1234 (check)

Cost overview (2026 estimate)

Airfare from major US hubs (e.g., Miami, New York) to Montevideo averages USD 900‑1 200 round‑trip, depending on season.

Accommodation: budget hostels USD 20‑30 per night; mid‑range hotels USD 80‑120.

Meals: inexpensive restaurant USD 10‑15 per meal; higher‑end dining USD 30‑50.

Transport: local buses USD 0.50‑1 per ride; inter‑city bus USD 15‑30.

Cost overview (2026 estimate)
ItemDaily cost (USD)
Hostel dorm20‑30
Mid‑range hotel80‑120
Meal (budget)10‑15
Meal (mid‑range)30‑50
Local transport1‑2

Flight time, time zone and plugs

Typical nonstop flight from Miami to Montevideo is about 10 hours; from New York about 12 hours with one stop.

Uruguay is UTC−3 year‑round, no daylight‑saving change.

Power plugs: Types C, F and I, 220 V 50 Hz. US travelers need a voltage‑compatible adapter and, for Type I, a plug converter.

Tipping and emergency contacts

Restaurants: around 10 % of the bill, left on the table; not automatically added.

Hotels: tip porters USD 1‑2 per bag, housekeeping USD 2‑3 per day if you wish.

Emergency number: 911 for police, ambulance and fire services.

FAQ

  • Do Americans need a visa for Uruguay?
  • How much does a trip to Uruguay cost in USD?
  • Where is the nearest United States embassy in Uruguay?

Questions people ask

Do Americans need a visa for Uruguay?

No. US citizens can stay visa‑free for up to 90 days for tourism. Longer stays require a visa applied at a Uruguayan consulate.

How much does a trip to Uruguay cost in USD?

A moderate budget is about USD 120‑150 per day (hostel, meals, transport). Flights from the US average USD 900‑1 200 round‑trip.

Where is the nearest United States embassy in Uruguay?

The US Embassy is in Montevideo, Av. 18 de Julio 2262. It provides consular assistance, passport services and emergency help.

What is the time difference between the US and Uruguay?

Uruguay is UTC‑3. Compared to New York (UTC‑5) it is 2 hours ahead; compared to Los Angeles (UTC‑8) it is 5 hours ahead.

Are US dollars accepted in Uruguay?

US dollars are widely accepted for larger purchases (hotels, tours) but most daily transactions use the Uruguayan peso. Carry some cash in pesos for small vendors.

Verify with the official source

Draft, not field-verified

Rules, fees, schedules and prices change. Verify with the official source (the government, embassy, operator or venue) before you book or travel.

Deep dive

Every source; changeable facts are marked check

Sources

Ask about Uruguay

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