Paraguay officially abolishes the visa-free entry policy for Venezuelan citizens

On January 9, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Paraguay issued a notice announcing the formal repeal of the previous decree that allowed Venezuelan citizens to enter without a visa for "security reasons." This measure will officially take effect on January 10, after which any Venezuelan citizen wishing to enter Paraguay must apply for a visa in advance and undergo prior identity document checks and criminal background checks. The Venezuelan Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on January 6, 2025, stating that the country has decided to sever diplomatic relations with Paraguay and immediately recall its diplomatic personnel. The Paraguayan government requested that the Venezuelan ambassador and other diplomatic personnel leave the country within 48 hours. (CCTV)