Venezuela has introduced a new PRO-V-90 visa, a fully electronic, multiple-entry visa designed for foreign professionals providing short-term services in the country without entering into an employment relationship with a Venezuelan company.
The new category is intended to address a common mobility scenario: foreign companies that have clients in Venezuela but do not maintain a local legal entity and need to send personnel temporarily to perform project-based services, technical assignments, or other professional activities.
Who Can Apply?
The PRO-V-90 visa is available to foreign nationals providing professional services in Venezuela either independently or at the invitation of a Venezuelan organization, provided no local employment relationship is established.
Eligible activities may include:
- Technical assistance and specialized support
- Short-term operational assignments
- Conference speaking engagements
- Journalistic and reporting activities
- Investment monitoring and oversight
- Other professional or consulting services
Key Restrictions
The visa is specifically structured for service-based activities rather than local employment.
To qualify, applicants must satisfy two key conditions:
- No employment relationship may exist between the foreign national and the Venezuelan company inviting or receiving the services.
- The foreign national cannot receive employment-related compensation from the Venezuelan entity.
As a result, the PRO-V-90 should not be viewed as a substitute for a work permit or local employment authorization.
Validity and Travel Flexibility
The PRO-V-90 offers:
- Validity: Up to 90 days
- Entry Type: Multiple entry
- Extension: No in-country extension process announced
- Renewal: Travelers must leave Venezuela and apply for a new visa before returning under a new assignment
Companies planning recurring assignments should therefore carefully coordinate travel schedules and project timelines.
Fully Digital Application Process
One of the most notable features of the new visa is its fully electronic application process.
Applications are submitted online through Cancillería Digital, Venezuela’s digital consular platform.
Key Features
- Fully online filing
- No consular appointment required
- No passport submission required
- Electronic approval document issued by email
- Estimated processing time: 2 to 10 business days
The digital format removes several administrative obstacles commonly associated with traditional visa processing.
Important Considerations
While the visa clearly prohibits employment with a Venezuelan entity, some situations may require additional analysis.
For example, foreign nationals who remain employed by a company outside Venezuela but are temporarily assigned to support a Venezuelan client should carefully evaluate whether their activities align with the scope of the PRO-V-90. The nature of the assignment, contractual relationships, and compensation structure should be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news becomes available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.