Types of residency available in Venezuela
Foreign nationals moving to Venezuela can obtain several types of residency visas. The type of visa required for each individual will depend on their circumstances, including their intended length of stay in the country and their reason for coming.
Tourist visa
Foreign nationals entering Venezuela as tourists can stay for a maximum of 90 days. The tourist visa can be obtained upon arrival at the airport or at the Venezuelan embassy or consulate in the traveler’s country of origin.
Student visa
Foreign nationals coming to Venezuela to study can apply for a student visa. This visa is valid for one year and can be extended for the duration of the study program. Applicants must provide proof of enrollment in a recognized educational institution and a certificate of good conduct from their home country.
Work visa
Foreign nationals who have secured a job in Venezuela can apply for a work visa. The work visa is valid for one year and can be renewed. Applicants must provide a work contract and a certificate of good conduct from their home country.
Business visa
Foreign nationals coming to Venezuela for business purposes can apply for a business visa. The business visa is valid for 90 days and can be extended for an additional 90 days. Applicants must provide a letter of invitation from a business partner in Venezuela and a certificate of good conduct from their home country.
Investor visa
Foreign nationals who have invested a significant amount of money in Venezuela can apply for an investor visa. The investor visa is valid for one year and can be renewed. Applicants must provide evidence of their investment and a certificate of good conduct from their home country.
Permanent residency
Foreign nationals who have lived in Venezuela for a minimum of five years can apply for permanent residency. Applicants must provide evidence of their length of stay in the country and a certificate of good conduct from their home country.
Applying for Residency in Venezuela
The process for applying for residency in Venezuela can vary depending on the type of visa being applied for. In general, applicants must fill out an application form and provide the necessary supporting documents.
Required documents for residency in Venezuela
The documents required for residency in Venezuela will depend on the type of visa being applied for. In general, applicants will need to provide the following documents:
- Passport
- Completed application form
- Two passport-sized photographs
- Certificate of good conduct from their home country
- Proof of their reason for coming to Venezuela (such as a work contract, enrollment in a school, or evidence of investment)
Registering with the government in Venezuela
Foreign nationals arriving in Venezuela must register with the Servicio Administrativo de Identificación, Migración y Extranjería (Administrative Service for Identification, Migration, and Foreigners) within 30 days of arrival. Failure to register can result in fines or other penalties.
Where to find information on residence in Venezuela
For reliable, up-to-date information on residence in Venezuela, you can visit the following websites:
Servicio Administrativo de Identificación, Migración y Extranjería (SAIME): http://www.saime.gob.ve/
Embassy of Venezuela in your home country: https://embajada.gob.ve/
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Venezuela: https://www.mipunto.com