On March 23, 2014 the US Embassy in Caracas, Venezuela announced that it would not be able to continue scheduling appointments for first-time tourist (B-1/B-2) visa applicants. Visa appointments for these types of visas will only be available in emergency situations. Appointments are still available for renewals of B-1/B-2 visas so long as the visa has not been expired for more than a year. Other types of visas at the US Embassy in Caracas can also be scheduled for interview. In addition, already scheduled visa appointments will not be cancelled.
The reason given by the US Embassy is that several consular officials have been expelled and also that the Venezuelan government has delayed visas for incoming officers.
The U.S. Embassy in Caracas advises the following about traveling to other countries to apply for the B-1/B-2 visa:
“Applicants may apply for first-time tourist (B-1/B-2) visas at other U.S. embassies or consulates abroad, but still must prove ties outside the United States when applying, regardless of the place of application. Once our consular staffing is allowed to return to normal levels, we anticipate being able to schedule appointments for first-time B-1/B-2 visa applicants.”