Published on
January 4, 2026
US has joined Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, India, and others in issuing an urgent travel advisory against all travel to Venezuela due to ongoing conflict, political instability, and rising risks. As the situation in Venezuela continues to deteriorate, governments worldwide are urging their citizens to avoid non-essential travel to the country. The ongoing conflict has led to widespread violence, including violent crime, kidnappings, and armed robberies, while the political landscape remains highly unstable, with frequent protests and civil unrest. In addition, Venezuela is facing severe shortages of basic necessities such as food, medicine, and water, making daily life increasingly precarious. These warnings highlight the growing dangers of traveling to Venezuela, where both safety and essential services are in jeopardy. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind these urgent travel advisories, the risks involved, and everything you need to know before considering travel to Venezuela in light of these escalating concerns.
Global Travel Warnings Against Venezuela: What You Need to Know
In light of escalating violence, political instability, and a deteriorating humanitarian situation, several countries, including the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and India, have issued urgent travel advisories against all travel to Venezuela. These advisories cite the ongoing conflict, high levels of violent crime, the risk of arbitrary detention, and widespread shortages of essential goods such as food, medicine, and water as major concerns for travelers. With Venezuela’s security environment remaining unpredictable and hazardous, governments are warning citizens to avoid non-essential travel and urging those already in the country to reconsider their stay. This article explores the details behind these travel warnings, the risks involved, and everything you need to know before making any decisions about traveling to Venezuela.
US Travel Advisory for Venezuela
The US Department of State has issued a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory due to the high risks of wrongful detention, terrorism, violent crime, and civil unrest. The U.S. government has no ability to provide consular assistance to American citizens in Venezuela due to the suspension of embassy services. The country faces significant challenges, including widespread crime, civil disturbances, and shortages of basic goods. U.S. nationals are at risk of wrongful detention, including severe mistreatment such as torture. Kidnapping and violent crime, including carjackings and armed robbery, are prevalent. The political situation is unstable, with frequent protests and crackdowns. The U.S. government cannot assist citizens with lost or expired travel documents or emergency services. All U.S. citizens are urged to leave Venezuela immediately. Those still in Venezuela should have a communication plan with family and prepare for potential evacuation. It is important to take precautions regarding financial transactions, as fraud and ATM skimming are prevalent.
Canadian Travel Advisory for Venezuela
The Canadian government has issued a complete travel ban to Venezuela due to extreme safety risks, including violent crime, arbitrary detention, and disruptions in basic services like food, water, and medicine. The security situation is precarious, with military strikes reported in several parts of the country, and the potential for sudden border closures and airspace restrictions. Canadian citizens already in Venezuela should shelter in place and prepare for possible evacuation. It is important to regularly review departure options and keep travel documents accessible. Canadians are advised to register with the “Registration of Canadians Abroad” service to receive updates from the Government of Canada. The Embassy of Canada to Venezuela has been closed since 2019, and consular assistance is severely limited. The situation remains volatile, and travelers are advised to monitor developments closely.
UK (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) Travel Advisory for Venezuela
The UK government advises against all travel to Venezuela due to the heightened security risks posed by violent crime, political instability, and civil unrest. Recent reports have indicated explosions in Caracas, and the security situation is expected to remain volatile. The government’s ability to assist British nationals is extremely limited due to the closure of the Canadian embassy and difficulties with telecommunications in the country. Violent demonstrations and protests are common, with security forces responding harshly. The risk of kidnapping, extortion, and theft is high, particularly near airports and in border regions. Basic services such as electricity, water, and healthcare are frequently disrupted, and shortages of essential goods are common. British nationals already in Venezuela should shelter in place and avoid large gatherings. They should have an emergency plan in place and monitor local media for developments. It is advised to avoid travel to border areas, particularly near Colombia and Guyana, due to the presence of armed criminal groups.
India Travel Advisory for Venezuela
India has issued a strong warning against traveling to Venezuela due to severe safety and security risks, particularly linked to the ongoing political instability, high crime rates, and lack of basic necessities. The Indian government advises its citizens to avoid travel to Venezuela because of the unpredictable security environment, which includes violent crime, political unrest, and the risk of arbitrary detention. The country has been facing severe shortages in food, medicine, and essential services like electricity and water. The violent crime rate in Venezuela is among the highest in the world, with incidents such as armed robberies, carjackings, kidnappings, and homicides frequently reported. Protests and demonstrations, often related to the political turmoil, can turn violent, and travelers could easily be caught in such incidents. The health infrastructure is weak, and medical supplies are limited, which makes it even more risky for travelers. Indian nationals in Venezuela are advised to stay informed about the local situation through media updates and to prepare for emergency evacuations if necessary. Those already in Venezuela should have emergency plans in place, including adequate supplies of essential items. The Indian government does not have an embassy in Venezuela, and consular assistance is very limited. Indian travelers are urged to reconsider their travel plans and take extreme caution if travel to Venezuela is unavoidable.
Australian Travel Advisory for Venezuela
The Australian government has issued a “Do Not Travel” advisory for Venezuela, citing the high risks of violent crime, civil unrest, and a breakdown in essential services such as water, food, and medical supplies. The country is experiencing severe political and economic instability, which has led to widespread shortages and disruptions. Venezuela has a high rate of violent crime, including kidnappings, armed robberies, and carjackings, particularly in urban areas such as Caracas. The government has also raised concerns about the risks of arbitrary detention and torture, particularly for foreigners who might be caught up in political demonstrations. Australian nationals in Venezuela are advised to leave immediately and to avoid engaging in political activities or protests, as these can quickly escalate into violent confrontations. There is no Australian diplomatic presence in Venezuela, so consular assistance is very limited. The Australian government also cautions that border crossings, including those with Colombia and Brazil, are dangerous and subject to sudden closures. Health services in Venezuela are extremely limited, with a shortage of medical supplies and difficulties in accessing adequate care. Australian travelers are strongly encouraged to ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage.
New Zealand Travel Advisory for Venezuela
New Zealand advises against traveling to Venezuela due to significant risks posed by the unstable political and economic environment, violent crime, potential civil unrest, and shortages of basic supplies such as food, medicine, and water. The situation is heightened by arbitrary detention risks and the presence of illegal armed groups operating near the Colombian border. Violent crime, including murder, armed robbery, kidnapping, and carjackings, remains very high throughout the country. New Zealanders already in Venezuela are advised to consider leaving the country. Travelers should plan to remain updated on the local situation and have a comprehensive emergency plan. Keeping essential supplies stocked and being ready to leave at short notice if necessary is important. Health services are limited, and travelers should secure a comprehensive travel insurance policy, including medical evacuation coverage. Political protests and civil unrest are frequent, and it is advised to avoid demonstrations and large public gatherings.
The U.S.-Venezuela Conflict: A Complex History
The relationship between the United States and Venezuela has been marked by tensions and conflicts for decades, particularly since the rise of Hugo Chávez to power in 1999. Chávez’s anti-U.S. rhetoric and policies, which included the nationalization of key industries and alliances with countries like Cuba and Iran, led to a severe deterioration in bilateral relations. The U.S. government accused Venezuela of undermining democratic institutions and supporting regional instability, while Venezuela criticized U.S. foreign interventionism and sanctions. The situation worsened after Nicolás Maduro succeeded Chávez in 2013, with both sides accusing each other of human rights violations and interference in domestic affairs. These longstanding geopolitical disagreements set the stage for the current U.S. travel advisory and sanctions imposed on Venezuela.
Rising Tensions: Sanctions, Diplomacy, and Escalation
In recent years, the U.S. has taken a more aggressive stance toward Venezuela, imposing sweeping economic sanctions on its government, state-owned oil company PDVSA, and various individuals within Maduro’s regime. These sanctions have had a profound impact on Venezuela’s already fragile economy, further exacerbating the country’s ongoing humanitarian crisis. The U.S. government has also recognized opposition leader Juan Guaidó as the legitimate president of Venezuela, which further alienated the Maduro government. Diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis have largely failed, and the U.S. continues to press for regime change, citing concerns over human rights abuses, political repression, and the suppression of democratic processes. This continued conflict has contributed to the dangerous and unstable environment that is driving international travel advisories, with the U.S. urging citizens to avoid Venezuela at all costs.
US has joined Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, India, and others in issuing an urgent travel advisory against all travel to Venezuela due to ongoing conflict, political instability, and rising risks.
Conclusion
US joining Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, India, and others in issuing an urgent travel advisory against all travel to Venezuela underscores the severity of the ongoing conflict and political instability in the country. With escalating violence, the risk of arbitrary detention, and the breakdown of essential services, these travel warnings highlight the rising dangers faced by both residents and visitors. Governments worldwide are prioritizing the safety of their citizens, advising against non-essential travel to Venezuela until the situation improves. For anyone considering traveling to Venezuela, it’s crucial to heed these advisories and stay informed of the risks involved.
