VENEZUELA (Aug. 2, 2019) – Apostille and document legalization services resume

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Online apostille and document legalization services have resumed after a suspension last month.

What does the change mean? While the online system is available, apostille and legalization services may still be delayed because of a backlog of applications. Additionally, immigration processes in other countries that require apostilled or legalized Venezuelan documents may still be delayed because of the application backlog.

  • Implementation time frame: Immediate and ongoing.
  • Immigration services affected: Apostille and legalization services; police clearance certificates.
  • Who is affected: Individuals requiring the services listed above.
  • What to watch: Apostille and legalization appointments are being scheduled four to six months in advance. After the appointment, it takes one week to receive the final document through email. Once the electronic copy is received, physical documents (other than police clearance certificates) will be stamped by the authorities.

Background: Earlier this month, apostille and legalization services were available only intermittently and were mostly unavailable.

In response, many countries in the region, such as Argentina , Colombia  and Costa Rica, have eased visa and residence permit application rules for Venezuelan nationals to account for the difficulties many are facing obtaining apostille services in Venezuela.

Analysis & Comments: While apostille and document legalization services have resumed, applicants should expect long delays because of the backlog of applications. Applicants should prepare to wait up to six month for apostille service appointments and one week to obtain the final document after the appointment is secured. While many countries have eased visa and permit application requirements for Venezuelan documents, many documents still require apostille services, and the ongoing delay of these services in Venezuela may impact business schedules. Employers should consult with their immigration advisor to determine the best plan of action.

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