Venezuelans received welcome news this last month when the National Assembly published a decree signed by Interim President Juan Guaido on May 21, to extend the validity of Venezuelan passports for an additional five years past their printed date of expiration.

The U.S. Department of State issued a statement,recognizing this extension for visa issuance and consular process. They also stated that Customs and Border Patrol would recognize this decree.

Obtaining a valid Venezuelan passport has been a difficult, if not impossible, task that has been a source of much concern for those seeking visas to the U.S. or have pending applications for immigration benefits. This decree will allow those currently holding a Venezuelan passport that has expired to automatically add 5 years of validity from the expiration date.

While this statement can provide much needed assurance, we recommend that Venezuelans who are currently applying for an immigration benefit, including travel to the U.S. with an expired passport, to contact Kuck Baxter Immigration to determine any risks or concerns with their travel or application.