Washington, D.C. — May 28, 2025
By Marcus Kline
The United States has raised its travel warning for Venezuela to the highest possible level—Level 4: Do Not Travel—due to a combination of escalating threats that now make the country one of the most dangerous destinations for American citizens.
This upgraded advisory comes as Venezuela faces mounting turmoil, including reports of wrongful detention, political instability, violent crime, and a healthcare system on the brink of collapse. The State Department’s updated alert reflects a comprehensive reassessment of the security landscape and urges all U.S. citizens to avoid travel to the country under any circumstances.
Why the Advisory Was Raised
The State Department’s Level 4 travel advisory highlights a confluence of high-risk factors. Chief among them are the continued wrongful detentions of U.S. nationals, often without due process or legitimate charges. Venezuela now has the highest reported rate of such detentions globally.
Other cited risks include arbitrary enforcement of laws, terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest, and a near-total breakdown of public services. Travelers are warned that should an emergency occur, help may be impossible to obtain, especially given that the U.S. Embassy in Caracas has remained closed since March 2019.
“There are no consular services available in Venezuela,” the advisory warns. “Americans in need of help will not be able to access support for emergencies, lost passports, or detentions.”
What This Means for Travelers
The advisory calls on any U.S. citizens currently in Venezuela to depart immediately while commercial options remain available. Those unable to leave, or who must travel due to exceptional circumstances, are urged to implement thorough safety precautions, including:
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Retaining legal representation in advance
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Preparing emergency contact protocols with family and friends
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Establishing proof-of-life arrangements
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Hiring experienced private security personnel
American travelers are also warned to avoid protests, which are frequent and often turn violent. Keeping a low profile, refraining from political speech, and maintaining situational awareness are deemed critical for anyone who must remain.
Venezuela’s Ongoing Crisis
Venezuela has been locked in political and economic crisis for over a decade. Once the wealthiest country in South America, it has seen the collapse of its economy, institutions, and public health systems. The current government, led by Nicolás Maduro, has been widely criticized for alleged human rights abuses, election manipulation, and the erosion of democratic norms.
Millions of Venezuelans have fled the country in recent years, seeking refuge in neighboring countries such as Colombia, Peru, and Brazil. The migration crisis has placed immense strain on regional resources and has contributed to rising tensions along several borders.
For those who remain, daily life is marred by shortages of food, medicine, and basic utilities. Violent crime, including armed robbery and express kidnapping, is rampant, even in urban centers like Caracas and Maracaibo. Foreigners are especially vulnerable due to perceptions of wealth and a lack of legal protections.
Detained Americans and Diplomatic Fallout
A growing number of U.S. citizens have been detained under vague or politically motivated charges. These cases have become flashpoints in the strained relationship between Washington and Caracas, with officials and advocacy groups arguing that some detainees are being used as leverage in political negotiations.
Despite ongoing efforts by humanitarian organizations, there is little indication that the situation will improve in the short term. The U.S. continues to impose sanctions on Venezuela’s government and affiliated industries while calling for democratic reforms and the release of all political prisoners.
Official Recommendations
The State Department recommends that all American citizens enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time updates and alerts. It also encourages staying connected with U.S. embassies in neighboring countries for contingency support and regional developments.
“Travel to Venezuela is not safe and should not be attempted,” the advisory concludes. “We urge all Americans to take this warning seriously and act accordingly.”
