Venezuelans now eligible for Special Stay Permit renewals

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Venezuelan nationals may renew Special Stay Permits under a resolution that took effect earlier this month.

What does the change mean? Venezuelan nationals are eligible to renew Special Stay Permits if they (1) resided in Colombia on July 25, 2017, (2) entered Colombia with a passport, (3) have a clean criminal record in Colombia and abroad, and (4) are not subject to a deportation order. The renewal application window is currently available to Venezuelans whose initial special permits were issued between Aug. 3 and Oct. 31 or 2017. Special Stay Permits provide Venezuelan nationals temporary permission to reside, study and work in Venezuela.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate and ongoing. The resolution was passed May 28 and took effect June 4.
• Visas/permits affected: Special Stay Permits.
• Who is affected: Venezuelan nationals seeking to renew Special Stay Permits.
• Business impact: Colombian employers can employ Venezuelan nationals who hold Special Stay Permits.

Background: Colombia began issuing Special Stay Permits to Venezuelan nationals in 2017 in response to the political and economic situation in Venezuela. The permits were initially issued with a two-year validity period and may now be renewed for an additional two years. Renewal applicants will be required to provide a copy of their ID or birth certificate, a digital photograph (front facing with a white background), and a certificate of residence in Venezuela. Applicants must be in Colombia when the permit is granted. Additional information may be requested. Permits are generally issued within hours for applicants who meet the eligibility criteria.

Analysis & Comments: The ability to renew Special Stay Permits will benefit Venezuelan nationals unable to return to their home country due to the ongoing political and economic situation there.

Source: Deloitte LLP. Deloitte LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC303675 and its registered office at 1 New Street Square, London EC4A 3HQ, United Kingdom.