Information verified as of July 31, 2026. Chile and Venezuela agreed to restore consular relations as the first stage of a gradual normalization process. The announcement does not mean consulates are already serving the public: office locations, dates, hours, appointment systems, and available services still need to be published.
The governments of Chile and Venezuela announced on July 30 that they had begun a roadmap to gradually normalize bilateral relations. According to the joint statement published by Chile's Foreign Ministry, the first stage will restore consular relations so both countries can resume protection and services for their citizens.
This is an important development for Venezuelan families in Chile and Chileans in Venezuela, but it should be read precisely: the governments agreed to begin a process, not to open every office immediately or fully restore their embassies.
What was officially confirmed?
- There is a bilateral roadmap: both governments stated their intention to move forward gradually.
- The first stage will be consular: the stated priority is restoring protection and services for citizens.
- The objective is broader: full bilateral ties are described as a later step, not something already completed.
- The process will be gradual: it will be based on dialogue, reciprocity, mutual respect, and international law.
What remains pending?
The official statement does not set a public opening date, identify which offices will begin first, or announce the return of ambassadors in August. The following details are still pending:
- The actual reopening date for consular services in Santiago and Venezuela.
- Official addresses, hours, phone numbers, and contact channels.
- The appointment process and consular fees.
- The list of services available during the first phase.
- How passports or documents left pending during the closure will be handled.
- Any future timeline for restoring embassies and heads of mission.
Until each foreign ministry publishes these details, avoid paying intermediaries who promise early appointments or handing original documents to unofficial agents.
Why this restoration matters
The bilateral crisis began after Venezuela's July 2024 presidential election, when Venezuela ordered Chilean diplomatic personnel to leave. On January 30, 2025, Venezuelan authorities also requested the closure of Chile's consulates in Caracas and Puerto Ordaz.
The absence of direct services complicated document renewals and deliveries, civil registrations, powers of attorney, emergency assistance, and other routine processes. The new roadmap creates a path for these services to return, although each procedure must be confirmed individually.
Expired passports and travel documents
Restored consular ties may eventually make it easier to issue Venezuelan passports and travel documents in Chile. However, those services should not be treated as active until the mission publishes requirements, appointments, and processing times.
Since July 1, Chile's Migration Service has maintained an exceptional departure protocol for Venezuelan citizens with expired documents, introduced after the earthquakes in Venezuela. This mechanism predates the July 30 agreement and is not the same as reopening consular services.
Venezuela's mission describes its travel document or safe-conduct as a document for returning to Venezuela without a valid passport. Before purchasing a ticket, separately confirm that the document can be issued, that the airline will accept it, and that it satisfies the transit country's rules: a document valid for entering Venezuela does not automatically authorize transit through Panama, Colombia, or another country.
Apostilles and legalizations: an important correction
Venezuela's official portal for requesting legalizations and apostilles is the MPPRE Electronic Legalization and Apostille System, not the SAREN portal. Some underlying documents may involve Venezuelan registries or other agencies, but the international apostille is processed through the Foreign Ministry's platform.
In Chile, SERMIG requires foreign documents to be apostilled or legalized, as applicable. This does not mean every file bearing a QR code is automatically accepted: each procedure retains requirements for document type, validity, format, and verifiability. Check the specific application guidance before submitting.
Does the agreement restore nonstop flights?
No. Restoring consular ties and restoring air service are separate processes. As of July 31, the schedules reviewed do not show commercial nonstop flights between Santiago and Caracas or between Santiago and Valencia.
Connecting itineraries remain available, mainly through Panama City (PTY) and Bogotá (BOG). Copa Airlines, Avianca, and LATAM market options from Santiago, subject to date and availability.
Venezuela's airport contingency also continues to affect itineraries: LATAM warns that its Caracas service is being handled temporarily through Barcelona, Anzoátegui (BLA), because of damage at Maiquetía. Check the airport printed on each segment; do not assume a booking marketed for “Caracas” will land at CCS.
What to do if you are waiting for a service or planning a trip
- Wait for the operational announcement: verify the office, date, hours, and appointment system through official channels.
- Do not confuse an agreement with active service: the roadmap still requires administrative implementation.
- Prepare your file: keep your passport, identity card, civil records, receipts, and pending application numbers.
- Verify every document: check validity, apostille or legalization, and the format required by the relevant Chilean or Venezuelan procedure.
- Confirm the entire itinerary: airline, connections, transit requirements, and the actual arrival airport in Venezuela.
- Avoid informal payments: do not send money to personal accounts for unpublished appointments or services.
A gradual opening, not an instant one
The July 30 announcement changes the political landscape: for the first time since the rupture, both countries have jointly established a formal path toward normalization. Its practical effects will begin when verifiable dates, offices, and services are published.
At CAMF Travel, we can help you review flight alternatives between Chile and Venezuela, connection times, and the airport scheduled on your booking. Consular procedures are handled exclusively by the authorities. Message us on WhatsApp with your departure city, estimated date, and number of travelers.