VENEZUELA – Stricter Visa Requirements for U.S. Nationals
New provisions made by the Venezuelan government have recently revoked the visa-exempt status for U.S. nationals. Since this major change, more details have been released on the requirements for U.S. nationals seeking Venezuelan tourist visas.
The following documentation is required:
- A passport with at least six months of validity remaining;
- A passport-sized photo;
- Proof of employment;
- Documentation proving the ownership of a home, other valuable property, or a leasing contract;
- A bank statement showing the current balance OR a notarized letter from the person or group that will cover the costs incurred by the applicant’s visit;
- A copy of the applicant’s flight itinerary; and
- A $30 money order, payable to the Embassy of Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.
In order to obtain the tourist visa, U.S. nationals must apply in person at one of the Venezuelan consulates in the U.S: in Boston, Chicago, New Orleans, San Francisco, or Washington, D.C. Ideally, applications should be submitted at least 3 months in advance. Exceptions may be made for those with pre-existing or emerge travel plans. These individuals must submit a letter explaining the reasoning for the expedited visa. It is important to note that there is no guarantee that these requests for expedited processing will be accepted.
This change also affects business travelers who plan to travel to Venezuela in order to sign contracts, visit potential business partners, or attend conferences.