The Venezuelan opposition-controlled National Assembly recently acknowledged the significant obstacles for Venezuelans in extending or obtaining new passports, and issued a decree extending the validity of already issued Venezuelan passports for five years.

The U.S. Department of State announced on June 7 it will recognize the decree and accept Venezuelan passports accordingly. This is positive news for Venezuelans applying for U.S. visas and seeking entry into the United States, as their passports will now be considered valid for an additional five years beyond the printed date of expiration.

Other countries have also endorsed this mandate by opposition leader Juan Guaidó, whom the United States and over 50 other nations consider Venezuela’s legitimate president. Venezuelan passport holders should continue to monitor this situation regarding any upcoming international travel and consult destination countries’ policies on the matter.

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