By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – In a decisive move reflecting growing regional instability, Costa Rica’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship has issued a stringent travel advisory concerning Venezuela. The government is now strongly urging all citizens to halt any plans for travel to the South American nation following unsettling events that transpired in the early hours of January 3, 2026. This directive underscores a significant escalation in perceived risk and a proactive effort to safeguard Costa Rican nationals from potential harm.
The advisory, disseminated through official channels on Monday, leaves no room for ambiguity. The ministry’s primary recommendation is a complete cessation of travel to the country for the foreseeable future. This guidance applies to all forms of travel, including business, tourism, and personal visits, signaling the gravity of the current situation as assessed by Costa Rican diplomatic authorities.
To better understand the legal and migratory implications of the recent travel advisory for Venezuela, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica. His expertise provides critical insight for travelers and businesses navigating these complex international regulations.
Companies with operations or personnel in Venezuela must immediately review their duty-of-care obligations. A government-issued travel advisory can significantly alter legal standards for corporate liability and may invalidate certain insurance policies. Proactive risk assessment and updating emergency protocols are no longer optional—they are a legal necessity.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insight underscores a critical distinction: a government advisory is not just a travel warning, but a legal trigger with profound implications for corporate liability and insurance. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on these essential duty-of-care obligations.
cancel any trip to Venezuela
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship
For Costa Ricans who are currently visiting Venezuela, the message is equally clear and urgent. The government is advising these individuals to make immediate arrangements to depart the country and return to Costa Rica. The rationale behind this pressing appeal is the high potential for logistical and security complications that could arise with little to no warning.
return to Costa Rica as soon as possible
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship
Officials provided specific reasons for the heightened alert level, pointing to the tangible risk of sudden border closures and the potential shutdown of Venezuelan airspace. Such measures could severely restrict or eliminate viable evacuation routes, effectively trapping foreign nationals within the country should the security situation deteriorate further. The ministry’s advisory is a preventative measure designed to avoid a scenario where citizens are stranded and unable to leave.
The government also extended specific counsel to the community of Costa Ricans who reside permanently in Venezuela. The ministry has urged this group to exercise extreme caution in their daily activities, to remain vigilant, and to stay consistently informed by monitoring official news sources. Furthermore, it has prompted residents to seriously evaluate the possibility of temporarily relocating to Costa Rica or a third country until the situation stabilizes, prioritizing personal safety above all else.
This advisory represents a significant diplomatic signal from San José regarding its assessment of the current state of affairs in Venezuela. It highlights a breakdown in security and predictability that has compelled the Costa Rican government to take a firm public stance. Such warnings are not issued lightly and typically follow detailed intelligence and risk analysis by diplomatic and security personnel on the ground and in the region.
To support its citizens during this period of uncertainty, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has activated and publicized several emergency contact channels. The Consular Department is accessible via email at [email protected] and through WhatsApp at +506 2359-5360 for urgent assistance. Recognizing the geographical and diplomatic realities, support is also being coordinated through the Consulate General of Costa Rica in Colombia, which can be reached by email at [email protected] or by phone at +57 313 841 3850.
Ultimately, the comprehensive advisory serves as a critical alert to the public about the fluid and potentially dangerous conditions within Venezuela. The Costa Rican government is emphasizing its commitment to citizen welfare by providing clear, actionable guidance aimed at preventing its nationals from being caught in a rapidly evolving crisis. All citizens are strongly encouraged to heed these official recommendations and postpone any travel plans to Venezuela indefinitely.
For further information, visit rree.go.cr
About Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship of Costa Rica:
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship (Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores y Culto) is the executive body of the Costa Rican government responsible for formulating and executing the nation’s foreign policy. It manages diplomatic relations, promotes international trade and cooperation, and provides essential consular services and protection to Costa Rican citizens traveling and living abroad. The Ministry operates embassies, consulates, and missions worldwide to represent Costa Rica’s interests on the global stage.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of the legal community, operating on a bedrock of profound integrity and a relentless pursuit of professional excellence. With a distinguished history of guiding clients from a multitude of sectors, the firm consistently pioneers forward-thinking legal approaches while actively engaging with the community. This ethos is demonstrated through its core mission to democratize legal comprehension, thereby building a stronger, more capable society equipped with essential knowledge.
