Venezuela to United States tourist visa
US B1/B2 visa issuance to Venezuelan nationals is suspended under Presidential Proclamation 10998, effective January 1, 2026. Complete B1/B2 visitor visa requirements, fees, and processing details for Venezuelan citizens. Updated July 2026.
- Visa
- United States Tourist Visa
- Fee
- $185
- Processing time
- Suspended (see tips)
- Length of stay
- Up to 6 months
Required documents
- DS-160 Online Application — Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160) on the consular electronic application center website
- Valid Passport — Your current Venezuelan passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the US
- Passport Photo — Recent photograph meeting US visa specifications
- Financial Documentation — Evidence showing you can financially support your trip to the United States
- Ties to Venezuela — Strong evidence demonstrating your intention to return to Venezuela after your visit
- Visa Interview — In-person interview at the US Embassy or Consulate
How to apply
- Strong ties to Venezuela — Employment, property, family, business interests that will compel you to return
- Genuine travel purpose — Clear, legitimate reason for visiting the US
- Financial capability — Funds to cover all expenses without working illegally
- Intent to depart — Evidence that you will leave before your authorized stay expires
- Visa validity (10 years maximum) — Visa validity (10 years maximum) is different from permitted stay (6 months maximum)
- At the port of entry, — At the port of entry, CBP officers determine your actual length of stay
Common questions
- How long can I stay in the US on a B1/B2 tourist visa?
- The visa validity and length of stay are different. While a B1/B2 visa may be valid for up to 10 years, each visit is typically limited to 6 months. The actual duration is determined by the CBP officer at the port of entry and stamped on your I-94.
- What is the current US visa approval rate for Venezuelans?
- The approval rate for Venezuelan B1/B2 visa applicants is approximately 55%, meaning about 45% of applications are refused. This is primarily due to Section 214(b) denials where applicants cannot demonstrate sufficient ties to Venezuela.
- Can I work on a US tourist visa?
- No, the B1/B2 visa does not permit any form of paid employment in the United States. Even unpaid work or internships are not allowed. If you need to work, you must apply for an appropriate work visa such as H-1B or L-1.
- How long does it take to get a US visa from Venezuela?
- After your interview, standard processing takes 3–8 weeks. However, wait times for interview appointments can vary significantly. Administrative processing may extend the timeline further. Check current wait times on the US Embassy website.
- Do I need to book flights before applying for a US visa?
- No, you should not book non-refundable flights before your visa is approved. You may present a tentative itinerary at your interview, but the consular officer understands that plans may change.
- What happens if my US visa is refused?
- You will receive a refusal letter explaining the reason, usually Section 214(b). You can reapply with stronger documentation addressing the issues raised. There is no waiting period, but reapplying without improved documentation will likely result in the same outcome.