City, Venezuela
Is Mérida LGBTQ+ friendly?
Is Mérida LGBTQ+ friendly?
Legal but discreet; the student city is more tolerant than rural areas, yet public affection can draw hostility. No marriage or unions.
LGBTQ+ laws in Venezuela
Public affection draws hostility and police harassment; in May 2026 police detained about 30 people in a raid on a Barquisimeto LGBTQ+ venue.
| Status | |
|---|---|
| Same-sex relationships legal | Yes |
| Same-sex marriage | No |
| Civil unions or partnerships | No |
| Legal gender change | No |
| Anti-discrimination law | Partial |
LGBTQ+ friendliness across Venezuela
| Place | Rating |
|---|---|
| Caracas | 2/5 · Hostile |
| Mérida | 2/5 · Hostile |
Quick answers
Is Mérida safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?
Legal but discreet; the student city is more tolerant than rural areas, yet public affection can draw hostility. No marriage or unions.
Is same-sex marriage legal in Venezuela?
No.
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Sources
Ratings combine national law with local attitudes and the scene. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.