NBAA is advising operators of changes in visa policies for Venezuela that went into effect this month. The new policies, which created some confusion among operators, permit U.S. crews who are flying in active duty into Venezuela to stay up to 72 hours without a visa. But the crewmembers must be listed on the General Declaration and stay near the arrival airport. Further, they are banned from participating in business or tourist activities without a visa. Crewmembers who are repositioning must have a visa, as must business travelers and tourists. 

The requirements for obtaining a visa also have become more stringent. Despite its political issues and security concerns, Venezuela has remained a draw for both business and tourism travel, noted NBAA vice president of safety, security, operations and regulation Doug Carr. Tim Bennett, director of corporate relationships at G3 Global Services, warned NBAA that the situation is fluid and processing times might increase significantly as the volume of applications increases. 

NBAA plans to discuss the changes during its 2015 International Operators Conference, which will be held from March 23 to 26 in San Antonio.