Venezuela

Violent crime

There's a high level of violent crime in Venezuela.

If, despite our advice, you travel to Venezuela:

• always pay close attention to your personal security

• monitor the media and other sources for new security risks

Actual crime rates may be higher than official figures indicate. Venezuela has one of the world's highest murder rates.

Violent crime occurs throughout Venezuela. Incidents include:

• murder

• armed robbery

• kidnapping

• drive-by shooting

• carjacking

Many criminals carry firearms. They may kill or injure you if you resist.

Police response times are poor. They don't solve most murders and major crimes.

On roads, the threat of serious crime is high. Australian Government officials take extra security precautions when travelling by car.

Crimes you could come across include:

• mugging and kidnapping, sometimes by criminals posing as taxi drivers at Maiquetia Simon Bolivar Airport

• violent street crime and robbery near ATMs, money changers or damaged vehicles

• armed motorcycle gangs robbing passengers in vehicles stopped in heavy traffic

• 'express kidnappings', where criminals force you to withdraw funds from ATMs

• harassment and extortion by criminals posing as officials

• drink or food spiking, often followed by robbery and assault, including sexual assault

Petty crime is also common. This includes:

• pickpocketing on public transport

• theft from hotel rooms, safe deposit boxes and rental cars

Crime hotspots

Crime rates are especially high in Caracas, including:

• central Caracas

• Sabana Grande district

• Avila National Park

• poorer areas, such as Cumana, Maracaibo, Paraguana and Valencia

• on the islands of Los Testigos

Crime is also high in:

• the Maiquetia Simon Bolivar Airport area, and the road between the airport and Caracas

• 'barrios' or 'ranchitos' slum areas, especially after dark

• Margarita Island (Isla de Margarita)

• tourist and resort areas

If you go to Venezuela despite our advice, arrive and leave Caracas during the day. Organise your transport before you arrive at the airport.

Only use official taxis that you have booked through your hotel or at the airport.

To stay safe when you're out and about:

• be alert to your surroundings and always pay attention to your safety and security

• carry only what you need — leave other valuables in a secure place

• keep vehicle doors locked, windows up and valuables out of sight, even when moving

• avoid walking or driving in secluded areas, especially at night

If you're female, take extra care when dealing with strangers or people you've just met. Be especially wary about accepting rides or invitations.

Kidnapping

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn’t make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

If, despite this advice, you decide to travel to an area where there's a threat of kidnapping:

• seek professional security advice

• arrange effective personal security measures

More information:

• Sexual assault

• Kidnapping

• Advice for women

Protests and demonstrations

Demonstrations and other civil unrest is common, often in major urban centres, such as:

• Caracas

• Valencia

• Maracay

• Merida

• San Cristobal

The political situation is volatile.

Since January 2019, unrest has increased, often becoming violent. Many people have been killed, injured or arrested.

Disruptions to essential services occur.

On-the-spot demonstrations and other ongoing unrest is likely. Violent incidents and military responses are possible.

Days of national significance could motivate civil unrest.

National strikes can be called at short notice, often causing disruptions to:

• air travel

• public transport

• banking services

• government services

Shortages of basic items and long lines at grocery stores have led to:

• fighting

• looting

• theft

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

If, despite our advice, you travel to Venezuela:

• avoid all protests, political activity and large public gatherings

• leave affected areas as soon as it's safe

• monitor the media and other sources for news about possible unrest

• be particularly alert during days of national significance

• follow the instructions of local authorities

• keep spare supplies of food, water, medicines and other necessities

Border areas

Venezuela's land borders with Brazil and Columbia reopened on 7 June 2019.

Some maritime borders are also closed until further notice, including those with:

• Aruba

• Curaçao

• Bonaire

In border areas, there's limits on the right to:

• free movement

• assembly

• protest

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat in Venezuela.

Terrorist groups are particularly active in the region within 80km of Venezuela's border with Colombia. This region includes parts of:

• Bolivar

• Amazonas

• Apure

• Tachira

• Zulia

• Barinas

Colombian terrorist groups, such as the ELN (El Ejército de Liberación Nacional), and criminal gangs are active along Venezuela's borders with:

• Colombia

• Brazil

• Guyana

Hostages, including foreigners, have died after being kidnapped in these areas.

The Venezuelan military conducts searches and arrests in border regions, but threats remain. Troop movements and border closures can occur at short notice.

If, despite our advice, you decide to visit an area where there's a threat of kidnapping:

• find out about kidnapping before you travel

• seek professional security advice

• arrange effective personal security measures

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

Venezuela experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including:

• earthquakes

• hurricanes

• flooding

• landslides

If a natural disaster occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place

• monitor local media and other sources, such as the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

• follow the advice of local authorities

• keep in touch with friends and family

• seek local advice before entering affected areas

Hurricanes and severe weather

The rainy season is from May to December, bringing:

• hurricanes

• flooding

• landslides

Tropical storms and hurricanes can also occur in other months.

The direction and strength of hurricanes can change with little warning.

If there's a hurricane or severe storm:

• you may get stuck in the area

• flights could be delayed or suspended

• available flights may fill quickly

• sea ports may close

• proper shelter may not be available

If a hurricane is approaching:

• know your hotel's or cruise ship's evacuation plan

• identify your local shelter

• monitor alerts and advice from the US National Hurricane Center and Tropical Prediction Center

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

You'll probably need a special insurance policy that covers travel to high-risk destinations. Most Australian policies won't cover you for travel to Venezuela.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers

• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away

You're likely to need a specialised insurance policy for travel to a 'do not travel' destination. Some Australian insurance policies may not cover you for travel to 'do not travel' destination.

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up

• ask if your travel plans may affect your health

• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

More information:

• General health advice

• International travel and health

Most pharmacies, including in hospitals, no longer stock basic medicine or supplies due to short supply.

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Venezuela. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medicine is

• how much you'll take

• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medicine

Rates of insect-borne and infectious diseases are increasing. Diseases not seen for many years are re-emerging.

Insect-borne diseases

Venezuela has yellow fever. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel.

Malaria occurs year-round in some areas of Venezuela. The risk is highest in rural areas of:

• Apure

• Amazonas

• Barinas

• Bolivar, including the Angel Falls

• Delta

• Amacuro

• Monagas

• Sucre

• Tachira

Strains of malaria that are hard to treat have been reported.

Other insect-borne diseases in Venezuela include:

• dengue

• Chagas disease

• leishmaniasis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

Zika virus is widespread.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof

• use insect repellent

• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Get medical advice if you develop a fever, muscle pain, a rash or a bad headache.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

• Immunisation

HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS is common. Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other widespread infectious diseases include:

• typhoid

• hepatitis

• tuberculosis

• Venezuelan haemorrhagic fever

• measles

• mumps

• rubella 

• rabies

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To reduce your risk of illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids

• avoid ice cubes

• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads

• don't swim in fresh water 

• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help straight away.

Visit a doctor if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical facilities

The standard of public medical facilities in major cities is poor. It's even poorer in rural areas.

Basic medical supplies and medicines are hard to find.

Caracas and other major cities have good private hospitals and clinics. These hospitals are expensive and often require up-front cash payment.

Most healthcare providers don't speak English.

Emergency and ambulance services are very limited. Response times are slow, especially in rural areas.

Find hyperbaric chambers at:

• Unidad de Buceo PDVSA in Lagunillas Norte

• Hospital Naval Raul Perdomo in Ctia La Mar

• Compania Oriente marine Group in Puerto La Cruz

• Venezuela Divers in Ciudad Ojeda

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to Caracas. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include long sentences in dangerous local jails that are among the worst in the world.

If you're found with even a small quantity of marijuana, you may face a prison term.

Drug trafficking in Venezuela is a serious problem. Advanced detection methods have been introduced to help identify drug traffickers.

You'll be screened for drugs when you arrive and depart. You may also be screened while waiting in the airport.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

It's illegal to photograph:

• military buildings and surrounds

• sites of strategic importance,  including the Presidential Palace and airports

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Australian-Venezuelan dual nationals must enter and leave Venezuela on a Venezuelan passport.

If you're a dual citizen, this limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Venezuela has national service obligations. You may have to comply if you're a male dual citizen aged 18 years or older.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders.

Make sure you meet all entry and exit conditions. If you don't, the Australian Government can’t help you.

Visa-free travel for short stays

If you decide to travel to Venezuela despite our advice, you won't need a visa for tourist visits of less than 90 days. However, you'll need:

• a passport valid for at least 6 months

• proof of return or onward travel

You can be detained or deported if you don't comply with your visa conditions.

Ensure your visa status is up to date by contacting the Venezuelan migration department (Spanish).

Entry and exit conditions can change. Contact the nearest Venezuelan embassy or consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Travel via the United States

If you're transiting via the USA, you must meet US entry and transit rules.

Check your visa requirements with the nearest US embassy or consulate well in advance of travel.

More information:

• Travel advice for the US

Yellow fever vaccination

You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Venezuela. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever.

More information:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF 74KB)

• Embassy or consulate of Venezuela

Travel with a dual national child

To enter and leave Venezuela, dual national children aged under 18 who travel alone or with one parent will need:

• a notarised letter of consent signed by both parents including details of travel

• a copy of their birth certificate

Both documents must be:

• translated into Spanish

• certified by a Venezuelan embassy or consulate

More information:

• Advice for people travelling with children

Departure tax

You'll have to pay a tax if you leave the country via an international airport.

Payment must be made in cash, in Venezuelan Bolivar.

The cost of your ticket sometimes includes the departure tax. Check with your airline.

Validity

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.

• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

The local currency is the Venezuelan Bolivar Fuerte (VEF).

It's not easy to exchange Australian dollars for local currency. It may be hard to access money from an Australian bank account.

There are 2 official exchange rates and black market rates. It's only legal to change money at the official government rate. 

Differences in exchange rates can mean you need much larger amounts of Australian dollars for small purchases.

Money changers will exchange US dollars and traveller's cheques for VEF, but can't convert to other currencies.

The inflation rate is high.

In March 2017, the Venezuelan Government removed the 100 Bolivar note from circulation. Demand for large-value notes remains high. However, notes are hard to come by.

Credit cards and ATMs

Credit card transactions are charged at the official exchange rate.

Local EFTPOS machines don't always accept international credit cards. You'll need to enter your passport number when using them.

ATMs have low limits for cash withdrawals on international cards. Don't rely on ATMs as your main way to access money.

With the shortage of banknotes, the local card payment system is under extra strain. Debit or credit card transactions may take longer than expected, or require several attempts.

Credit card fraud is common. Always keep your card in sight.

Driving permit

You can drive in Venezuela for up to 1 year if you have both:

• a valid Australian driver's licence

• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

After 1 year, you'll need to apply for a local driver's licence.

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

Road travel

Driving in Venezuela is dangerous.

Hazards include:

• poorly maintained roads and vehicles

• drunk drivers

• drivers ignoring red lights, particularly at night

Rural roads are often unmarked. They have little or no street lighting.

There's a risk of extortion on roads outside major cities. Armed groups pose as police and set up illegal roadblocks. See Safety

At regular police and National Guard checkpoints:

• drive slowly

• stop if you're asked

Checkpoint officials might ask for bribes.

If you plan to drive in Venezuela:

• check you have the right insurance cover

• get to know local traffic laws and practices before driving

• get local advice and monitor local media about routes you plan to travel

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Make sure your insurance policy covers you to ride a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Crimes involving taxis occur. See Safety

If you need a taxi, use either:

• a pre-booked, licensed, radio-dispatch taxi

• a limousine service

Arrange these through your hotel. Don't hail taxis on the street.

Public transport

Public transport providers, including state-owned companies, may not carry out routine maintenance. Services could be cancelled or delayed.

Your safety may be at risk.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Sea travel

Ferry companies may not look after their fleets properly. This could make them unsafe. Services could be cancelled or delayed.

Piracy occurs in the coastal areas of Venezuela. The International Maritime Bureau issues piracy reports.

More information:

• Piracy

• Travelling by boat

Air travel

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Venezuela's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Tours and adventure activities

Tour operators don't always meet the safety standards you might expect.

They may not take safety precautions or follow maintenance schedules. Safety gear, such as life jackets and seatbelts, may not be provided.

If you plan do a tour or adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurer covers it

• check the operators' credentials and safety equipment before booking

• ask about or insist on minimum safety requirements

• always use available safety gear, even if others don't

If standard safety equipment is not available, use another provider.

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends

• travel agent

• insurance provider

• employer

• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 171.

Medical emergencies

Call 171 or go to the nearest hospital.

Police

Call 171 or visit the nearest police station.

Phone operators may not speak English.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your travel insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Venezuela. The Canadian Embassy in Caracas offers consular help to Australians in Venezuela, including issuing temporary travel documents.

To make an appointment for consular services email crcas@international.gc.ca.

Canadian Embassy, Caracas

Avenida Francisco de Miranda con Avenida Sur

Altamira, Caracas, Venezuela

Telephone: (58 +212) 600 3000; 600 3042 or 600 3043

Facsimile: (58 +212) 263 4981

E-mail: crcas@international.gc.ca

Website: canadainternational.gc.ca/venezuela

The Australian Embassy in Colombia can also help.

Australian Embassy, Bogota

Edificio Tierra Firme

Avenida Carrera 9 No. 115-06

Oficina 2003

Bogotá, Colombia

E-mail: consular.bogota@dfat.gov.au

Website: colombia.embassy.gov.au

Facebook: Embajada de Australia en Colombia y Venezuela

Twitter: @AusEmbCO

Check the embassy websites for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas

• 1300 555 135 in Australia