Peru: Large Venezuelan migrant influx at northern border October 30

Event

At least 6000 Venezuelan migrants arrived at Peru's northern border with Ecuador on Tuesday, October 30, following thousands of others having arrived in recent days and weeks in hopes of entering the country before the October 30 deadline for acquiring residency. President Martín Vizcarra confirmed that there will be no extension of the deadline for those who arrive in the country after October 30. However, Peru's ombudsman office has announced that 4000 more migrants were expected to arrive in the next two days.

The influx has strained existing social services and fueled concerns regarding crime and jobs. The head of the ombudsman's office in Tumbes called the situation worrisome, stating the government's capacity to respond to the mass influx has collapsed. Associated tensions in the area can be expected in the near term.

Context

Peru was one of the first countries to offer temporary residency permits to Venezuelans, who have been fleeing their home country and crossing Colombia and Ecuador to reach Peru. As many as 1.9 million Venezuelans have emigrated since 2015 and Venezuela's economic crisis continues to worsen.

Advice

Individuals in Peru are advised to keep abreast of the situation and limit nonessential travel to the northern border until further notice.