Travel Report for Venezuela

Country Profile for
Venezuela

TRAVEL REPORTS:

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TRAVEL REPORT

Last Updated: December 5, 2006 14:53 EST
Still Valid: December 8, 2006 22:04 EST

Venezuela

1.	INTRODUCTION
2.	ATTENTION
3.	SAFETY AND SECURITY
4.	LOCAL TRAVEL
5.	NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE
6.	LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
7.	ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD
8.	ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS
9.	MONEY

10.	GENERAL INFORMATION
11.	TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM
12.	ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION
13.	RETURNING TO CANADA
14.	INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS
15.	TRAVEL TIPS
16.	HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE
17.	FOR MORE INFORMATION
18.	ANNEX

1. INTRODUCTION

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed. Section 2 has been updated.

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2. ATTENTION

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the region(s) specified below. (IDW5)

You are advised against all travel within 80 km of the Venezuelan, Colombian, and Brazilian borders due to the increasing threat of kidnapping. Colombian guerrillas, who frequently operate on both sides of the border, are suspected of several kidnapping cases. They are now openly targeting foreign citizens in Venezuela's Amazonas state, specifically near the border with Colombia. Cross-border violence, kidnapping, smuggling, and drug trafficking occur frequently in remote areas, specifically in Venezuela's Zulia, Tachira, Barinas, Bolivar, Apure and Amazonas states.

Canadians in Venezuela should be aware of the possibility of civil unrest and disruptions in travel and business operations in Caracas, in anticipation of the presidential elections scheduled for December 3, 2006. Canadians should monitor local news reports, avoid large crowds and demonstrations, follow the advice of local authorities and contact the Embassy of Canada in Caracas, or the Emergency Operations Center at (613) 996-8885, should they require consular assistance.

The bridge on the highway that connects Caracas with Simon Bolivar "Maiquetia" International Airport (SVMI/CCS) collapsed on March 19, 2006. The bypass that runs parallel to the damaged bridge goes through an area prone to landslides and may be closed for hours at a time. Further delays and closures are possible. Local authorities have adopted a policy of restricting traffic flow to one direction, to or from Caracas, depending on congestion.

Alternative routes can be used to get to and from the airport when the bypass is closed. The safest route is the old Caracas-La Guaira highway; however, this route passes through slum areas, and travellers are advised to take additional security measures. Alternative mountain routes pass through the towns of Galipan and Carayaca. These roads are considered dangerous, as they lead through unsafe neighbourhoods and are often prone to landslides.

Travellers should also note that the contingency route still lacks many important safety features such as guard rails, road signs and streetlights. The narrow road also includes several sharp bends and steep inclines, which can pose a considerable danger at night and during rainy periods.

It is highly recommended that plans for travel to and from the airport be arranged in advance. Travellers should monitor local news reports, follow the advice of local authorities and allow sufficient time to reach the airport. Travel at night should be avoided. Travellers transiting overnight are advised to remain in hotels near the airport and avoid going into Caracas.

In 2004, the Venezuelan government suspended all customs and immigration activities at eight private airports. No international flights operate from the main private airports of Maturín, Cumaná, Coro, Puerto Cabello, Caracas-La Carlota, Charallave, El Vigía, or Ciudad Bolívar.

This situation does not affect the following main international airports in the country: Aeropuerto Internacional de Maiquetia (Caracas), Aeropuerto Internacional Arturo Michelena (Valencia), Aeropuerto Internacional de la Chinita (Maracaibo), Aeropuerto Internacional General Santiago Mariño (Margarita Island), Aeropuerto Internacional Jacinto Lara (Barquisimeto), Aeropuerto Internacional General José Antonio Anzoátegui (Barcelona), Aeropuerto Internacional Josefa Camejo (Paraguaná), Aeropuerto Internacional de Puerto Ordaz (Bolívar), and Aeropuerto Internacional General Juan Vicente Gomez (San Antonio del Táchira).

Political marches by both the government and the opposition continue to raise political tensions. Traffic in Caracas may be hindered to the point of main intersections being closed off without notice at different times of the day. The use of incendiary devices, tear gas and the blocking of some primary roads, including the highway (main access route to airport) to Caracas, can occur.

Canadians should exercise increased caution in Venezuela. The security situation remains volatile due to the ongoing tension between the government and its opponents. Bombings of embassies and public governmental buildings have occurred in Caracas, increasing the threat of further violent acts.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians who choose to travel to the region(s) specified despite this warning should register with the responsible Canadian government office in this country. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form. Canadians visiting other areas of the country for three months or more should also register. Canadians visiting for less than three months are strongly advised to: (a) leave a detailed travel itinerary and contact information with family or friends in Canada; (b) provide family with the emergency number for Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (1 800 267-6788 or 613-944-6788); and (c) keep the phone number of the responsible Canadian government office on hand (see Section 7 below).

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

Caution and prudence should be exercised at all times while travelling throughout the country. Travellers should be careful when accepting food or drink from strangers, as there have been cases of drugging followed by robbery and assault, including sexual assault.

Women should exercise caution in dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances, and be specially careful about accepting rides or invitations to go for a drink. There have been cases of drugging followed by robbery and assault, including sexual assault. Incidents of assault, rape and sexual aggression against foreigners have been reported at beach resorts in Margarita Island. Acquaintance rape is a serious problem. In some cases, hotel workers, taxi drivers, and others have been implicated. Anyone who is a victim of a sexual assault should report this immediately to the nearest Canadian Consulate/Embassy and is strongly advised to file a report with Venezuelan authorities. Note that no criminal investigation is possible without a formal complaint to Venezuelan authorities.

Violent crime is prevalent throughout the country, including tourist and resort areas. Violence against foreigners can occur in all regions in Venezuela, both urban and rural. Crime has increased considerably, particularly in the central and poorer areas of Caracas, Maracaibo, Valencia, and Margarita Island. Pickpockets are active in crowded bus and subway stations. Ensure personal belongings and travel documents are secure, including on beaches or in parked vehicles and hotel rooms. Do not show signs of affluence. Thefts from hotel safes have been reported. City streets in central Caracas and the "Sabana Grande" area should be avoided due to a growing incidence of violent robberies. Canadians should exercise caution in the historical centre of Caracas (Plaza Bolivar), where most government institutions are located as demonstrations often take place.

Demonstrations, protests, marches, and strikes, some violent, may occur at any time in the capital, throughout the country and on main highways. Local transportation services can be disrupted. Roadblocks may occur on main roads at any time and often cause traffic disruptions. Canadians should not attempt to cross blockades, even if they appear unattended. Curfews may also be in effect.

Because of the unpredictable nature of these demonstrations and the potential for violence, Canadians in or travelling to Venezuela should exercise caution, avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, and monitor local news reports.

Various service interruptions can be expected. Local transportation services have been disrupted due to road closures and shortages of gasoline. Foreign exchange controls have been implemented. Foreign credit cards should not be affected, although using traveller's cheques or exchanging currency could be a problem. Do not change currency at any unauthorized exchange institutions.

Incidents of carjacking, express kidnapping, and long-term kidnapping have increased dramatically. Victims are usually forced out of their vehicles at gunpoint or knifepoint and robbed of their money, jewellery, and identification. Others have been forced into cars at gunpoint and driven out of the city. They may also be taken to withdraw funds at ATMs and, in some cases, held captive until their families pay a steep ransom. Injuries, and even death, have occurred when victims do not cooperate. While travellers are not specifically targeted, they should avoid walking or driving in isolated areas, particularly after dark.

There have been incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships in the coastal areas and marinas, some involving a high degree of violence. Small vessels, such as private yachts, should be aware of the risk of attack and take appropriate precautions. A Weekly Piracy Report may be found on the Web site of the International Chamber of Commerce.

There are road connections from Colombia and Brazil, but not from Guyana. Do not take the El Amparo de Apure-Arauca or the Puerto Paez-Puerto Carreno border crossings to Colombia due to the presence of Colombian guerillas and incidents of kidnapping.

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4. LOCAL TRAVEL

Traffic congestion is common in Caracas. Traffic laws are rarely observed by local drivers due to the lack of police enforcement. Drive with doors locked and windows closed at all times. Night driving is not recommended outside major cities due to unmarked road damage or construction and wandering livestock. Stopping at national guard and police checkpoints is mandatory. Drivers should follow all instructions and have vehicle and insurance papers and passports readily available. Vehicles may be searched.

There have been incidents of stone throwing from highway overpasses and bridges near poorer neighbourhoods. Motorists are robbed after stopping to assess vehicle damage.

Visitors should use only licensed, radio-dispatched taxis from official taxi stands, which clearly display an identification number. Incidents of robbery and assault, often at gunpoint, have been reported in unlicensed taxis. Never accept unsolicited offers of transportation, especially at airports (i.e. Maiquetia-Caracas airport). Do not accept unsolicited offers of luggage or passenger check-in. Business travellers should obtain specific details from their company regarding airport pick-up in Caracas prior to departure from Canada (i.e. proper driver's identification).

There have been reports of Venezuelan officials at airports, immigration offices, and police stations imposing excessive charges. If you experience a problem, you should pay the fine, record the official's name and report the incident to the nearest Canadian government office.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.

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5. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

The hurricane season extends from June to the end of November. You are advised to visit the Web site of the National Hurricane Center for information on weather conditions.

The rainy season extends from May to December. Heavy rains and landslides severely affected the coastal state of Vargas in December 1999 and February 2005. In the event of heavy rains coastal roads and highways may not be fully operational and some utilities, especially water services, may be disrupted.

The littoral cordillera coast of Venezuela (including Caracas) is located in an active seismic zone. Canadians should know the address and telephone number of the Embassy of Canada in Caracas (see below) in the event of an emergency.

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6. LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 7 below. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The Department publishes A Guide for Canadians Imprisoned Abroad, specifically targeted at incarcerated Canadians. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian detainees, their families, and friends about available assistance and advice.

Possession of illegal drugs (including marijuana) will lead to immediate detention, incarceration, and lengthy jail terms. All departing visitors are thoroughly screened for drug possession by the National Guard.

Venezuela has strict regulations concerning the importation of foreign-registered motor vehicles. These regulations are strictly enforced, and offenders face heavy fines and/or confiscation of the motor vehicle. Prior to departure, contact the Embassy of the Republic of Venezuela (see below) for the most up-to-date regulations and procedures.

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7. ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following addresses:

Venezuela - CARACAS, Embassy of Canada
Address: Consular Section, Avenida Francisco de Miranda con Avenida Sur Altamira, Altamira, Caracas, Venezuela
Tel.: 58 (212) 600-3000, 600-3042, or 600-3043
Fax: 58 (212) 263-4981
E-mail: crcas@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.caracas.gc.ca

Venezuela - ISLA DE MARGARITA, Consulate of Canada
Address: c/o Calle Ortega, Edificio Monseratto, #12-100, apartment 2-B, Porlamar, Estado Nueva Esparta, Venezuela
Tel.: 58 (295)264-1684
Fax: 58 (295) 249-1071

For emergency assistance after hours, call the following number at the Embassy of Canada in Caracas at 600-3000. You may also make a toll-free call to the Department in Ottawa at 800-15199 or use the services offered by Canada Direct.

Canada Direct, offered by Canada's major telecommunications companies, provides travellers with toll-free and hassle-free access to the Canadian telephone network. The Canada Direct access number from Venezuela is 0-800-100-1100, where a Canadian operator is always available. For more information, call 1 800 561-8868 or visit the Canada Direct Web site.

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8. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with authorities at the Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and was valid on January 13, 2006. However, entry and exit requirements are subject to change.

It is the sole prerogative of each country to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the country or countries to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada’s Office of Protocol provides contact details for the Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and its consulates, where you can obtain further information on entry and exit requirements.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Venezuela. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from the country. Canadians must also be in possession of a tourist card (provided by the airlines). A return or onward ticket is required to enter Venezuela.

A visa is required for Canadians entering Venezuela overland.

Tourist Visa: Not Required (unless entering overland)
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required

The immigration regulations in Venezuela have been reinforced. All visitors without a proper, valid visa could be subject to detention or deportation. Canadians must ensure that their status is up-to-date at all times.

Travellers are given a tourist card by the airlines upon arrival. This card is usually a small two-page form, which is stamped by an immigration officer along with the passport. The traveller keeps the yellow copy and the immigration officer keeps the white copy. The card allows the visitor to remain in Venezuela as a tourist for 90 days; the tourist card must be presented prior to departure; a lost card may result in delays until a replacement is obtained.

Minors (18 years old or under) travelling alone will need to present a legally certified letter of consent from both parents. If the child is travelling with only one parent, a legally certified letter of consent from the other parent will be needed. The letter of consent, notarized, and authenticated by the Embassy of Venezuela or a Venezuelan consulate in Canada, must be presented to the immigration authorities upon exiting Venezuela, and must include the child's full name and passport number, the parents' full names, the child's detailed travel itinerary (including flight numbers and names and addresses of all lodgings). The letter of consent may be written in English, but Spanish is preferred.

Travellers departing from any international airport in the country are required to pay an airport tax of 33.600 bolivars and an exit tax of 84.000 bolivars. These taxes must be paid in local currency and in cash, but they may be included in the price of the ticket. They are applicable regardless of the traveller’s age and the number of days spent in Venezuela.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify visa requirements for this and other countries, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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9. MONEY

The currency is the bolívar. Carry U.S. cash/traveller's cheques since it is difficult to exchange Canadian dollars into bolívars. Travellers may encounter difficulties exchanging foreign currency in banks and hotels. These establishments often restrict transactions to their clients only. Exchange houses are usually the best places to exchange currency. When travelling outside major cities, travellers should take sufficient bolívars, since exchange houses may be scarce. Credit cards are accepted at major hotels, at resorts, in stores, and at airports.

The Illegal Exchange Law came into effect on October 14, 2005. The law prohibits the sale and purchase of any foreign currency outside of authorized institutions (such as hotels, currency exchange houses or banks). Travellers should be especially wary of individuals trying to buy their dollars at the airport, as anyone caught exchanging foreign currency is subject to a fine worth double the amount sold. Any individual entering or leaving Venezuela with more than US$10,000 is required to declare it to the authorities (CADIVI), and anyone convicted of selling or purchasing foreign currency above US$20,000 is subject to two to six years of imprisonment in addition to a fine worth double the amount exchanged.

Check with your bank for information on ATM services in other countries. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ATMs around the world. Your bank can advise if you need a new personal identification number (PIN) for overseas access to your account. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ATMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. GENERAL INFORMATION

Venezuela (capital: Caracas) is located on the northern edge of South America, bordered by Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana. Tourist facilities are adequate but vary greatly in quality. The official language is Spanish. English and French are also spoken in major cities and tourist areas.

During major events, such as large marches, local cellular phone services could be interrupted due to network overload. Public telephones can be used only with a telephone card. Coins are not accepted.

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11. TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Medicine Program Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada reminds travellers that Yellow Fever vaccination is recommended for all travellers over nine months of age travelling to Venezuela, except for travel to the northern coastal area.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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12. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Travellers to many of Venezuela's tourist destinations, such as in Isla de Margarita and Puerto la Cruz, should be aware that medical treatment facilities normally provided by public hospitals are often not available or, at best, seriously below levels of service found in Canada. Visitors may avail themselves of the services of one of the many private clinics but should be aware that these facilities are considerably more expensive and that the clinic may demand payment in advance of any treatment. Canadians travellers are strongly advised to obtain adequate levels of supplementary health insurance to meet potential needs. Furthermore, they should ensure that they carry with them the financial means to cover immediate expenses, pending reimbursement by the insurance company.

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13. RETURNING TO CANADA

Please consult the Current Issue on returning to Canada.

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14. INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS

Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child from another country, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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15. TRAVEL TIPS

Please consult our Traveller's Checklist.

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16. HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE

Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

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17. FOR MORE INFORMATION

N/A

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18. ANNEX

N/A

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