Venezuela Sanctions

Canada's sanctions against Venezuela under the Special Economic Measures Act. Total designated: 123 (123 individuals). Earliest listing: 2017-09-22, latest listing: 2025-03-20.

On 13 November 2017, the Council of the EU adopted restrictive measures in view of the existing crisis in Venezuela, caused by the deterioration of democracy and overruling the law and human rights. The restrictive measures aim at fostering a credible and meaningful process that can lead to a peacefully negotiated solution. Travel restrictions and an asset freeze can be imposed in relation to those responsible for serious human rights violations or abuses or the repression of civil society and democratic opposition, and those whose actions, policies, or activities otherwise undermine democracy or the rule of law in Venezuela. In addition to that, considering the risk of further violence and excessive use of force, the restrictive measures adopted by the Council include an arms embargo as well as restrictions on equipment that might be used for internal repression and measures to prevent the misuse of communication equipment. The measures can be reversed depending on the evolution of the situation in the country, in particular the holding of credible and meaningful negotiations, the respect for democratic institutions, the adoption of a full electoral calendar, and the liberation of all political prisoners. In order to support efforts by Venezuela to maintain the electoral process and to expand the democratic space in the country, on 13 May 2024, the Council decided to extend the restrictive measures only until 10 January 2025 instead of the standard 12-month renewal. In addition, the Council decided to suspend the travel restrictions on four individuals. Derogations and exemptions to the restrictive measures are possible, including for the delivery of humanitarian aid. Adopted by: EU.

The European Commission identifies high-risk third countries having strategic deficiencies in their regime on anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism. In line with EU AML directives, gatekeepers such as banks are obliged to apply increased checks and control measures on business relationships and transactions involving these countries.

Jurisdictions under increased monitoring due to strategic deficiencies in AML/CFT but actively working with FATF on action plans. When the FATF places a jurisdiction under increased monitoring, it means the country has committed to resolve swiftly the identified strategic deficiencies within agreed timeframes and is subject to increased monitoring.

The Venezuela-Related Sanctions program imposes blocking sanctions and sectoral measures targeting the Government of Venezuela and persons contributing to the situation in Venezuela. The program addresses human rights violations, anti-democratic actions, and corruption, with sectoral determinations covering the oil, financial, and defense and security sectors. Multiple general licenses authorize specific activities including oil and gas sector operations, humanitarian assistance, telecommunications, and financial transactions.

Sanctions regime targeting Venezuela. 51 designated entities (51 individuals). Designations sourced from the UK. Earliest designation: 2025-01-10, latest update: 2025-04-09.

Swiss sanctions targeting Venezuela. Total designated: 70 (70 individuals).

Sanctions regime targeting Venezuela including asset freeze, arms embargo, trade restrictions on military and internal repression goods, and interception/monitoring services.

HM Treasury advisory notice identifying High Risk Third Countries (HRTCs) as defined in the Money Laundering Regulations 2017. Countries are those listed by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) under two categories: (1) High-Risk Jurisdictions subject to a Call for Action (3 jurisdictions - FATF black list), and (2) Jurisdictions under Increased Monitoring (22 jurisdictions - FATF grey list). UK regulated firms must apply enhanced customer due diligence and enhanced ongoing monitoring on business relationships and transactions involving persons established in these jurisdictions. The notice was last updated on 22 June 2026 reflecting FATF's June 2026 plenary outcomes.

Countries classified as having institutional and social fragility under the World Bank FCS framework