Foreign travel advice

Venezuela

FCDO advises against all travel to parts of Venezuela.

Warnings and insurance

• Still current at: 21 November 2024
• Updated: 4 November 2024
• Latest update: Updated advice on visa requirements for non-tourism visits and on detailed questioning for arriving foreign nationals on the purpose and details of their visit, including recent detentions of foreign nationals (‘Entry requirements' and 'Safety and security' pages).

Download a more detailed map (PDF)

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Within 80km of the Venezuela-Colombia border 

FCDO advises against all travel to within 80km (50 miles) of the border with Colombia. Drug traffickers and illegal armed groups are active along the border area with Colombia and there is a risk of criminal kidnapping.

Zulia State

FCDO advises against all travel to Zulia State, which has prolonged power cuts, water shortages, violence and local conflict.

Within 40km of the Venezuela-Brazil border

FCDO advises against all travel to within 40km (25 miles) of the border with Brazil. Drug traffickers and illegal armed groups are active along the border area with Brazil and there is a risk of criminal kidnapping.

All other areas of Venezuela

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the remaining areas of Venezuela, due to ongoing crime and instability.

Presidential election period

National presidential elections were held on 28 July 2024.  The situation in Venezuela is currently tense.

There is currently an increased risk of electoral demonstrations and protests. You should avoid political rallies, demonstrations and crowds, which may become violent and could be dispersed by the use of force. You should not cross security-force lines or barricades. Monitor developments closely and keep up to date with this travel advice.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

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View a printable version of the whole guide