Chile to ease visa rules for Venezuelans fleeing Maduro

Chile is to ease visa regulations for Venezuelans fleeing the political crisis back home while tightening the rules for Haitians as it grapples with an influx of migrants, President Sebastian Pinera said Monday. In light of the "grave democratic crisis" gripping Venezuela, Pinera said he was creating a so-called visa of "democratic responsibility" which Venezuelan citizens could obtain through the Chilean embassy in Caracas. The move seeks to streamline the process of getting a visa for all Venezuelan nationals. Before, they had visa-on-arrival access to Chile as tourists where those with a specific need could then apply for a student visa, a work permit or for permanent residency. But under the new system, such visas will be available to all Venezuelans, regardless of their status — as long as they apply in Caracas, in a move aimed at significantly cutting red tape for those wanting to leave. More…