The U.S. State Division has reissued its strongest journey advisory – Degree 4: Do Not Journey – for Venezuela, citing rising threats together with illegal detentions, political unrest and a deteriorating healthcare system.
In an up to date safety warning launched on January 6, 2026, the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá, Colombia, reiterated the long-standing directive that U.S. residents ought to keep away from all journey to Venezuela.
The embassy has additionally urged these already within the nation to take action depart instantlywarning of the US authorities’s restricted capacity to help in emergencies as a result of suspension of diplomatic operations since 2019.
‘The safety state of affairs in Venezuela stays unpredictable and harmful’ the alarm situations. “Americans in Venezuela should depart now and take precautions to make sure their security as they organize their departure.”
Key considerations embody:
- Arbitrary enforcement of native legal guidelines
- Threat of illegal detention and torture
- Frequent energy and utility outages
- A fragile healthcare system
- Excessive crime charges, together with kidnappings and violent robberies
In line with the Ministry of Overseas Affairs, these threats have continued and intensified for the reason that withdrawal of all diplomatic personnel from Caracas nearly seven years in the past. With out consular companies working within the nation, Americans face these issues vital dangers in case you are caught in authorized or medical emergencies.
A senior official from the Ministry of Overseas Affairs defined the background: “We proceed to obtain credible studies of Individuals being focused in Venezuela – whether or not for extortion, political energy or ransom. This isn’t a theoretical danger. It’s taking place.”
Industrial flights have resumed on a restricted foundation, however ticket availability stays scarce as a consequence of excessive demand and restricted operations. The embassy advises vacationers to usually test airline web sites and make fast preparations to go away the nation.
Moreover, Individuals in Venezuela are inspired to register for the Sensible Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to obtain real-time updates and set up communication with family members overseas.
Venezuela persistently ranks among the many most harmful nations for overseas guestsbased on unbiased journey danger assessments. Whereas some nations preserve a minimal diplomatic presence in Caracas, the US has continued to deal with all consular issues for Venezuela via its embassy in Bogotá.
As of January 2026, the journey advisory will stay unchanged at degree 4, placing Venezuela on par with nations comparable to North Korea, Syria and Afghanistan by way of traveler danger.
For official updates and emergency help, U.S. residents are urged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá or the Division of State’s Workplace of Consular Affairs.