travel.state.gov: Travel Advisories

travel.state.gov: Travel Advisories

travel.state.gov: Travel Advisories

Angola - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Thu, 05 Mar 2026

Exercise increased caution

in Angola due to crime, health, unrest, and landmines. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Petty crime, assaults, and armed robberies are common. Other crimes, like burglary, occur, but with less frequency.

Medical services in Angola are limited. Adequate trauma and ambulance services are not widely available. Even a minor health issue may require medical evacuation at the traveler’s expense.

Demonstrations related to the local political situation may occur with little notice. They may disrupt transportation and other essential services.

Landmines and unexploded ordnance exist throughout Angola. Many locations with unexploded landmines and ordnance are marked. However, some may be unmarked or hard to spot.

Reconsider Travel to the Luanda greater metropolitan area due to risk of crime.

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Pakistan - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Tue, 03 Mar 2026

Reconsider travel

to Pakistan due to armed conflict, terrorism, crime, and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

On March 3, 2026, the Department of State ordered non-emergency U.S. government employees and the family members of U.S. government personnel from U.S. Consulates Lahore and Karachi to leave Pakistan due to safety risks.  There is no change to the status of Embassy Islamabad.

Terrorism

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Pakistan. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Violent extremist groups have carried out attacks in Pakistan. Terrorist attacks typically happen in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including the former FATA, but they have also occurred in major cities such as Karachi and Islamabad. 

• Terrorists may strike without warning. They target transportation hubs, hotels, markets, malls, military and security forces sites, airports, trains, schools, hospitals, places of worship, tourist spots, and government buildings.

Demonstrations

Local law prohibits protesting or demonstrating without a permit.

• Being near a protest can draw scrutiny from Pakistani security forces.
• U.S. citizens have been detained for participating in protests. You can also face detention for posting content on social media viewed as critical of the Pakistani government, military, or officials.
• Internet and mobile phone service outages are common, especially during protests.

Crime

Pakistan’s security environment remains fluid. It sometimes changes without notice and can be a serious threat.

• There are greater security resources and infrastructure in the major cities. Security forces in these areas may be more readily able to respond to an emergency compared to other areas of the country.
• The most reported crimes are pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and phone theft. 

Limited U.S. consular assistance

The Government of Pakistan restricts the travel of U.S. government personnel working in Pakistan.

• U.S. government employees working in Pakistan are required to use armed escorts and armored vehicles when traveling in certain parts of the country, both for official and personal travel.  
• The U.S. government has a limited ability to assist or provide services to U.S. citizens in the KP Province, Balochistan Province, Pakistan-administered Azad Kashmir, and most areas outside of Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi.
• U.S. government personnel working in Pakistan must obtain special authorization from the host government to travel to most areas outside of Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi.
• Additional restrictions on movements can occur suddenly and at any time. This depends on local circumstances and security conditions. 
• U.S. government employees working in Pakistan are generally prohibited from attending most large gatherings, such as political rallies or religious ceremonies. 

Dual nationals

The U.S. embassy and consulates have a limited ability to provide consular services to dual U.S.-Pakistani citizens who have been arrested or detained. Pakistani law considers such individuals to be exclusively citizens of Pakistan.

Do Not Travel to:

• Balochistan Province and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Province, including the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), due to terrorism and kidnapping.
• The immediate vicinity of the Line of Control due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict.

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Saudi Arabia - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Tue, 03 Mar 2026

The advisory level was increased to 3. There were no changes to the risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. Mission operations.

Reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia due to risk of armed conflict, terrorism, exit bans, and local laws regarding social media activity. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to the Yemen border due to threat of Terrorism.

Advisory summaryOn March 3, 2026, the Department of State authorized non-emergency U.S. government employees and U.S. government employee family members to leave Saudi Arabia due to safety risks.  

U.S. Citizens should complete the Crisis Intake Form to let the U.S. Embassy or consulate know they are requesting assistance. Do not submit this form more than once. The form is available at the following link: https://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake.

Armed conflictFollowing the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, there has been an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks from Iran and significant disruptions to commercial flights.

The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to U.S. citizens in Saudi Arabia due to the safety risks.

U.S. government employee travel restrictions near Yemen

• U.S. government employees working in Saudi Arabia are not allowed to travel within 20 miles of the Yemen border due to safety risks.
• U.S. government employees are not allowed to travel to Qatif for non-official travel due to safety risks
• The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Yemen border region due to the safety risks.
• U.S. citizens in Saudi Arabia are advised to take the same precautions.

TerrorismThere is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks in Saudi Arabia. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Terrorism is a concern in Saudi Arabia. Attacks can occur with little or no warning, especially around holidays. They can involve knives, firearms, and vehicles.

Potential targets include:

• Important political, cultural, or religious locations
• Places visited by U.S. citizens and other foreigners
• Tourist locations and large gatherings
• Transportation hubs
• Markets and shopping malls
• Entertainment venues
• Government facilities

Terrorists may use violence to respond to direct attacks against them or other military operations in the region.

Missile and drone attacks from YemenThe Houthis in Yemen have launched missile and drone attacks into Saudi Arabia. Past attacks have targeted cities, infrastructure, airports, military bases, and energy facilities throughout the country.  The Houthis have previously conducted missile and drone attacks in Saudi Arabia, the last in 2022.

Recent Houthi attacks have targeted vessels in the Red Sea. The Houthis have threatened to attack Saudi Arabia again.

Falling debris from intercepted drones and missiles are also a risk. U.S. citizens living and working near energy infrastructure and military bases may be at increased risk, especially closer to the Yemen border.

Exercise increased caution due to exit bansU.S. citizens have been prevented from leaving Saudi Arabia. Exit bans may be related to pending criminal and civil investigations and cases, including, but not limited to unpaid visa overstay fees, domestic family disputes, and other financial and labor disagreements.

• Exit bans prevent individuals from leaving the country. These can last for many years.
• In some cases, exit bans can continue even after a criminal sentence has been fully served or a private suit is settled.

Exercise increased caution due to local laws

• Saudi authorities may detain you if they consider your social media posts or other online activity to be critical, offensive, or disruptive to the public order.
• U.S. citizens have been arrested for past social media activity, including comments posted while outside of Saudi Arabia. This may include posting, re-posting, or liking comments critical of the Saudi government or its leaders and policies. This also may apply to comments about public life or religion in Saudi Arabia.
• Local laws against cybercrime and terrorism may be used to prosecute cases related to social media use.
• Punishment for social media activity has included prison sentences of up to 45 years. Local authorities may not take into account when, where, or in what context posts are made.
• You are subject to local laws when traveling in Saudi Arabia.  If you break laws in Saudi Arabia – even by mistake – you could be deported, fined, imprisoned, or subject to an exit ban. Some U.S. citizens have been detained for several months or even years without charges.

Aviation SafetyThe Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR).  This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Saudi Arabia.  Consult the Federal Aviation Administration for the most up to date information on current FAA warnings.

Risks in specific areas

Level: 4 – Do not travel - The Yemen border region

Do Not Travel to the Yemen border due to threat of Terrorism.

Armed groups in Yemen have attacked Saudi border towns and other sites in Saudi Arabia with armed drones, missiles, and rockets. People near the border with Yemen are at increased risk.

• U.S. government employees working in Saudi Arabia are not allowed to travel within 20 miles of the Yemen border due to safety risks.
• Terrorist groups continue to plan possible attacks in Saudi Arabia, including Qatif.
• U.S. government employees working in Saudi Arabia are not allowed to travel to Qatif for non-essential travel due to safety risks. U.S. government employees working in Saudi Arabia need special authorization to travel to Qatif due to safety risks.
• The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas due to safety risks.
• U.S. citizens in Saudi Arabia are advised to take the same precautions.

For U.S. citizens in Saudi Arabia:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Many prescription medications need prior approval before bringing into, or taking out of Saudi Arabia. Before you travel, register any listed prescriptions at the Controlled Drug System (CDS) website. This approval process may take several weeks.
• Review our information on  Terrorism and travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis Response and Evacuations.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easy to access.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in large crowds or tourist spots.
• Avoid public displays of affection, particularly between same-sex couples.
• Visit Saudi Arabia’s website for information about public decency regulations.
• Do not carry, produce, use, or distribute illegal drugs in Saudi Arabia.
• Review local laws and conditions before traveling, including our Saudi Arabia country information on arrests.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian travelers.
• Before you travel, delete any sensitive photos, comments, or past content that might be seen as controversial or inappropriate in Saudi Arabia. Do not post, share, or like such content while in Saudi Arabia. Do this for your social media accounts, cameras, laptops, phones, and other accounts and devices.    
• Visit our page regarding Arrest or Detention Abroad for more information on what happens when you or a loved one are arrested abroad.
• Review the Country Security Report for Saudi Arabia.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) page for the latest Travel Health Information for Saudi Arabia.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel.  Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.

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Cyprus - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Tue, 03 Mar 2026

The advisory level was increased to 3. There were no changes to the risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. embassy operations.

Reconsider travel to Cyprus due to the threat of armed conflict and limited U.S. embassy assistance for Americans in the Turkish Cypriot Administered area.

Advisory Summary    

On March 3, 2026, the Department of State authorized non-emergency U.S. government employees and U.S. government employee family members to leave Cyprus due to the safety risks. 

Armed Conflict 

Following the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, there have been significant disruptions to commercial flights.  

A drone struck a building on the British Sovereign Base Area on Cyprus on March 2.

Turkish Cypriot-Administered Area 

• The U.S. Embassy in Nicosia has limited ability to help U.S. citizens in this area.

• Human rights reports show that central prison and police detention facilities do not meet international standards.

Since 1974, the southern part of Cyprus has been under the control of the internationally recognized Government of the Republic of Cyprus. However, the northern part of Cyprus is administered by Turkish Cypriots. It proclaimed itself the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” (“TRNC”) in 1983. 

The United States does not recognize the “TRNC,” nor does any country other than Türkiye. A buffer zone, patrolled by the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus, separates the 2 sides. 

For U.S. citizen travelers:

• Enter and exit the island of Cyprus only at Larnaca and Paphos airports or at the seaports of Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos. The Republic of Cyprus does not consider entry or exit via Ercan Airport or by a seaport in the north to be legal. U.S. citizens who leave the island from Ercan could face challenges returning to the Republic of Cyprus in the future.

• You cannot receive a residency permit from the Republic of Cyprus to live in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots.

• The Republic of Cyprus does not recognize residence permits issued by Turkish Cypriots. If you arrive to the island at a north seaport or Ercan airport or stay in the Turkish Cypriot-administered area for over 90 days, you may be denied entry into the Republic of Cyprus.

• The U.S. Embassy has limited ability to help U.S. citizens in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots. The Government of the Republic of Cyprus does not control the area. Travelers should consider this when planning their activities. 

  If you decide to travel to Cyprus:  

• Visit our website for information on Travel to High-Risk Areas. 

• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis Response and Evacuations.

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency. 

• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.  

• Develop a communication plan with family, your employer, or host organization. Plan together how and when you'll confirm you are safe (text or call).   

• Keep travel documents up to date and easy to access.  

• Make back-up plans to leave the country.  

• Be aware of your surroundings.  

• Stay alert especially in places visited by large groups of people and travelers or tourists.  

• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information before you travel.  

• You should make a safety plan for emergencies. Read the Traveler’s Checklist.  

• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.   

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Oman - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Tue, 03 Mar 2026

The advisory level was increased to 3. There were no changes to the risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. embassy operations.

Reconsider travel to Oman due to risk of armed conflict and terrorism.

Do Not Travel to the Yemen border area due to terrorism and armed conflict.

Advisory summary

On March 3, 2026, the Department of State authorized non-emergency U.S. government employees and U.S. government employee family members to leave Oman due to safety risks.  

U.S. Citizens should complete the Crisis Intake Form to let the U.S. Embassy or consulate know they are requesting assistance. Do not submit this form more than once. The form is available at the following link:  https://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake.

Armed Conflict

Following the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, there has been an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks from Iran and significant disruptions to commercial flights.

Terrorism

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks in Oman. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Terrorism is a concern in Oman. Attacks can occur with little or no warning, especially around holidays. They can involve knives, firearms, and vehicles.

Potential targets include:

• Important political, cultural, or religious locations
• Places visited by U.S. citizens and other foreigners
• Tourist locations and large gatherings
• Transportation hubs
• Markets and shopping malls
• Entertainment venues
• Government facilities

Terrorists may use violence to respond to direct attacks against them or other military operations in the region.

Aviation Safety

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an ongoing Special Federal Aviation Regulation and Notice to Airmen (NOTAM). This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby Yemen. For more information Americans should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.

Risks in specific areas

Level 4 – Do Not Travel

The Yemen border region

Do Not Travel to the Yemen border area due to terrorism and armed conflict.

Do not travel to this area for any reason.

Terrorist attacks and armed conflict continue in Yemen. Crossing the Oman-Yemen border can be dangerous. Americans who attempt to cross the border, from either Oman or Yemen, may be detained by Omani authorities.

Review our information on  Terrorism and travel to High-Risk Areas.

If you decide to travel to Oman:

• Review our information on Terrorism and travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Oman.
• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis Response and Evacuations.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Oman.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
• Please be sure to visit our website for Crisis Response and Evacuations.

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United Arab Emirates - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Tue, 03 Mar 2026

Updated to reflect the ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members of government personnel on March 2. Advisory summary was updated.

Reconsider travel to the United Arab Emirates due to the threat of armed conflict and terrorism.

Advisory Summary

On March 2, 2026, the Department of State ordered non-emergency U.S. government employees and U.S. government family members to leave the United Arab Emirates due to the threat of armed conflict.

U.S. Citizens should complete the Crisis Intake Form to let the U.S. Embassy know they are requesting assistance.  Do not submit this form more than once.  The form is available at the following link:  https://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake

Armed Conflict

Following the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, there has been an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks from Iran and significant disruptions to commercial flights. The Iranian regime has publicly stated its intention to target locations in the UAE associated with the United States.

Terrorism

There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in the United Arab Emirates. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.  

Terrorists may attack with little or no warning and may target tourist locations, transportation hubs, shopping areas, government facilities, places of worship, and in particular locations associated with the Jewish and Israeli communities.

Aviation Safety

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) recommending caution for U.S. air carriers and commercial operators operating in the Middle East, including the UAE. For more information, Americans who plan to travel to the region should check the FAA’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.

Local laws

Residents and visitors should be aware the UAE has strict rules on social behavior, drug possession, traffic violations, and financial crimes. Breaking these rules can lead to arrest and/or an exit ban. Americans should review the Department of State’s Destination Information Page for the UAE to learn about local laws, special circumstances, and additional information about travel to the United Arab Emirates.

For U.S. citizens in the United Arab Emirates:

• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Have a plan to depart in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help.  Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations .
• Follow the U.S. Mission to the UAE on Facebook, Instagram, and X, and visit the Mission website.
• Review the Country Security Report for the United Arab Emirates.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for United Arab Emirates.
• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

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Qatar - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Mon, 02 Mar 2026

Updated to reflect the ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members of government personnel on March 2. Advisory summary was updated.

Reconsider travel to Qatar due to risk of armed conflict.

Advisory summary
On March 2, 2026, the Department of State ordered non-emergency U.S. government employees and U.S. government employee family members to leave Qatar due to threat of armed conflict.

U.S. Citizens should complete the Crisis Intake Form to let the U.S. Embassy or consulate know they are requesting assistance. Do not submit this form more than once. The form is available at the following link: https://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake.

Out of an abundance of caution and until further notice, U.S. Embassy Doha has suspended routine consular services. Americans should contact [email protected] in case of emergency. Americans in Qatar are strongly encouraged to depart now. 

Americans who choose not to depart at this time should prepare contingency plans should the situation deteriorate. These alternative plans should not rely on the U.S. government for assisted departure or evacuation.

Following the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, there has been an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks from Iran and significant disruptions to commercial flights.

Aviation SafetyThe Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) for the region, including Qatar.  This is due to risks to civil aviation from political and military tensions in the region.  The notice advises U.S. operators to review current threat information and to report safety or security incidents.  For more information, Americans should consult the Federal Aviation Administration.

For U.S. citizens in Qatar:

• Americans who wish to depart should take advantage of commercial transportation options.
• If you choose to remain in Qatar, be prepared to shelter in place should the situation deteriorate.
• Have a plan to depart in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help.  Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations .
• Visit our website for information on Travel to High-Risk Areas. 
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Develop a communication plan with family, your employer, or host organization. Plan together how and when you'll confirm you are safe (text or call) 
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Qatar.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

Full Story

Jordan - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Mon, 02 Mar 2026

Updated to reflect the ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members of government personnel on March 2 and the change to Level 3: Reconsider Travel due to safety risks, and to add the “other” risk indicator. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. embassy operations.

Reconsider Travel to Jordan due to terrorism and armed conflict.

Advisory Summary

On March 2, 2026, the Department of State ordered non-emergency U.S. government employees and their family members to leave Jordan due to safety risks.

Armed Conflict

Following the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, there has been an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks from Iran and significant disruptions to commercial flights.

Terrorism

There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Jordan. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Terrorists may attack without warning, including such targets as:

• Tourist locations;
• Transportation hubs;
• Markets and shopping malls;
• Local government buildings.

Jordan is relatively stable but due to high tensions in the region, the security environment remains complex and can change quickly.

Do not travel to:

• Mansheyat al Ghayyath, Ruwayshid, and the border with Syria and Iraq due to the risk of terrorism and unrest.
• Designated Syrian refugee camps in Jordan due to Government of Jordan’s restrictions on entry into these camps.
• Rusayfah city due to the risk of terrorism and crime.
• The Baqa’a neighborhood of Ayn Basha due to risk of terrorism and crime.

Reconsider travel to:

• Ma’an city and designated areas of Ma’an Governorate due to the risk of terrorism and crime.
• Zarqa city due to the risk of terrorism and crime.

Mansheyat al Ghayyath, Ruwayshid, and the Border with Syria and Iraq – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to the towns of Mansheyat al Ghayyath, Ruwayshid, and Jordan's border with Syria and Iraq due to the continued threat of cross-border violence, terrorism, and crime.

• All U.S. government personnel must follow U.S. embassy travel restrictions for all official travel within 3.5 km of the Jordan-Syria border. All travel must occur during daylight hours.  
• U.S. government personnel must follow U.S. embassy travel restrictions for official travel to the towns of Mansheyat al Ghayyath and Ruwayshid along highway 40 towards the Iraq border. All travel must occur during daylight hours.
• Personal travel by U.S. government employees to these border areas is not authorized.

Syrian Refugee Camps – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to Syrian refugee camps in Jordan. This is due to the Government of Jordan’s restrictions on entry into these camps.

All U.S. government personnel on official travel to the following three Syrian refugee camps must follow U.S. embassy travel restrictions:

• Azraq Syrian Refugee Camp, Azraq, Zarqa.
• Za’atari Syrian Refugee Camp, Al Zatryah, Mafraq.
• King Abdullah Park Syrian Refugee Camp, Ramtha, Irbid.

Official U.S. government travel to these camps must occur during daylight hours. Personal travel by U.S. government personnel to these refugee camps is not authorized. 

Rusayfah City – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to Rusayfah City due to the risk of terrorism and crime.

• All U.S. government personnel on official travel to Rusayfah must follow U.S. embassy travel restrictions.  All travel must occur during daylight hours.  

• Personal travel by U.S. government personnel to these areas is not authorized. 

The Baqa’a Neighborhood of Ayn Basha - – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to the Baqa’a neighborhood of Ayn Basha due to the risk of terrorism and crime.

• All U.S. government personnel on official travel to these areas must follow U.S. embassy travel restrictions. All travel must occur during daylight hours.
• Personal travel by U.S. government personnel to these areas is not authorized.

Zarqa City

Reconsider travel to Zarqa City due to the risk of terrorism and crime.

• All U.S. government personnel on official travel to this area must follow U.S. embassy travel restrictions. When traveling at night, U.S. government personnel on official travel must use major highways.
• Personal travel by U.S. government personnel to these areas is allowed only during daylight hours. Direct transit through these areas is permissible at night along major highways.

Ma’an City and Some Areas of Ma’an Governorate

Reconsider travel to these areas due to the risk of terrorism and crime:

• Ma’an city
• All areas of Ma’an Governorate east of Highway 15 (“The Desert Highway”)
• All areas of Ma’an Governorate within two kilometers to the west of Highway 15
• All U.S. government personnel on official travel to these areas must follow U.S. embassy travel restrictions. When traveling at night, U.S. government personnel on official travel must use major highways.  
• Personal travel by U.S. government personnel to these areas is allowed only during daylight hours. Direct transit through these areas is permissible at night along major highways. 

Review our information on Terrorism and Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Aviation Safety

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an ongoing Special Federal Aviation Regulation and Notice to Airmen (NOTAM).  This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby Yemen.  For more information Americans should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.

If you decide to travel Jordan:

• Have a plan to depart in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Review local laws and conditions before traveling.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Jordan.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Jordan.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

Full Story

Iraq - Level 4: Do Not Travel

Mon, 02 Mar 2026

There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. embassy operations.

Do not travel to Iraq due to terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, civil unrest, and the U.S. government’s limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Iraq. Do not travel to Iraq for any reason.  Leave now if you are there.

Advisory Summary

On March 2, 2026, the Department of State ordered non-emergency U.S. government employees to leave Iraq due to security concerns.

U.S. citizens in Iraq face high risks, including violence and kidnapping. Terrorist and insurgent groups regularly attack Iraqi security forces and civilians. Anti-U.S. militias threaten U.S. citizens and international companies. Attacks using improvised explosive devices, indirect fire, and unmanned aerial vehicles occur in many areas, including major cities. The Department of State requires U.S. government personnel in Iraq to live and work under strict security due to serious threats.

Terrorism

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Iraq. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Unrest

Demonstrations, protests, and strikes occur frequently throughout the country. These events can develop quickly without prior notice, often interrupting traffic, transportation, and other services, and sometimes turn violent.

Armed Conflict

Do not travel near armed groups or Iraq’s northern borders due to:

• Continued threat of attacks by terrorist groups
• Armed conflict
• Aerial bombardment
• Civil unrest

U.S. citizens should not travel through Iraq to engage in armed conflict in Syria, where they would face extreme personal risks (kidnapping, injury, or death) and legal risks (arrest, fines, and expulsion). The Kurdistan Regional Government in Iraq has stated it will impose prison sentences of up to ten years on individuals who illegally cross the Iraq-Syria border. Fighting on behalf of or providing other forms of support to designated terrorist organizations can constitute the provision of material support to a foreign terrorist organization, which is a crime under U.S. law that can result in penalties including prison time and large fines. Read the Syria Travel Advisory for more information.

Because of security concerns, U.S. government personnel in Baghdad are prohibited from using Baghdad International Airport.

Aviation Safety

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Iraq. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Iraq.

For U.S. citizens in Iraq:

• Establish a personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization or consider consulting with a professional security organization.
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
• Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them for identification purposes.
• Have departure plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
• Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return to the United States as planned.
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.  Review the Country Security Report for Iraq.
• Visit the CDC website for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations. We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

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Bahrain - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Mon, 02 Mar 2026

Updated to reflect the ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members of government personnel on March 2. There were no changes to Travel Advisory Level or the risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. embassy operations.

Reconsider Travel to Bahrain due to terrorism and armed conflict.

Advisory SummaryOn March 2, 2026, the Department of State ordered non-emergency U.S. government employees and family members of U.S. government employees to leave Bahrain due to safety risks.

U.S. Citizens should complete the Crisis Intake Form to let the U.S. Embassy or consulate know they are requesting assistance. Do not submit this form more than once. The form is available at the following link: https://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake.

Armed ConflictFollowing the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, there has been an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks from Iran and significant disruptions to commercial flights.

TerrorismThere is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Bahrain. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.  

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Bahrain. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. Targets may include tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and religious sites as well as government and military facilities.

Aviation SafetyThe Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an ongoing Special Federal Aviation Regulation and Notice to Airmen (NOTAM). This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby Bahrain. For more information Americans should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.

For U.S. citizens in Bahrain:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Stay alert at all times, especially in locations frequented by tourists.
• Develop a communication plan with family, your employer, or host organization. Plan together how and when you'll confirm you are safe (text or call)
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Review the Country Security Report for Bahrain.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Bahrain.
• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

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Kuwait - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Mon, 02 Mar 2026

Updated to reflect the ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members of government personnel on March 2. There were no changes to the risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. embassy operations.

Reconsider Travel to Kuwait due to the threat of armed conflict, landmines, and crime.

Advisory SummaryOn March 2, 2026, the Department of State ordered non-emergency U.S. government employees and the family members of government personnel to leave Kuwait due to safety risks.

U.S. Citizens should complete the Crisis Intake Form to let the U.S. Embassy or consulate know they are requesting assistance. Do not submit this form more than once. The form is available at the following link: https://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake.

Armed ConflictFollowing the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, there has been an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks from Iran and significant disruptions to commercial flights.

The U.S. government cannot offer emergency services to U.S. citizens in Kuwait due to the safety risks.

Notice to AirmenThe Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Kuwait. Consult the Federal Aviation Administration for the most up to date information on current FAA warnings.

Crime

• Exercise increased caution in the Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh area in Kuwait City because of crime.
• The Kuwaiti police report that the neighborhood of Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh near the Kuwait International Airport is a high-crime area.

Landmines

• Landmines and unexploded ordnance exist in the desert area and some beaches north of the Mutla’a Ridge and near the border with Iraq.
• The locations of landmines and unexploded ordnance are often not marked or easy to recognize.
• There may be unexploded bombs, shells, and landmines left over from the 1990 Gulf War.
• Avoid areas that are “off the bea.ten path” and do not touch or move objects in that area.  They could explode.
• Do not travel to these areas for any reason.

For U.S. citizens in Kuwait:

• Visit our website for information on travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Develop a communication plan with family, your employer, or host organization. Plan together how and when you'll confirm you are safe (text or call). 
• Keep travel documents up to date and easy to access.
• Review local laws and conditions before traveling.  Kuwait has strict laws prohibiting the possession or trafficking of drugs (including marijuana) and alcohol.  Do not bring drugs or alcohol in your luggage and do not attempt to purchase them in Kuwait.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert especially in places visited by large groups of people and travelers or tourists.
• Review the Country Security Report for Kuwait.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information before you travel.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
• Have a plan to depart in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help.
• Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations .

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Guinea - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Wed, 25 Feb 2026

There were no changes to the advisory level or indicators. The advisory summary was updated.

Exercise increased caution in Guinea due to crime, unrest, and inadequate health infrastructure.

Advisory summary

Restrictions on U.S. Government Personnel MovementU.S. government employees working in Guinea are prohibited from traveling between cities at night due to safety risks.

CrimeCrimes of opportunity are common in Guinea, especially in Conakry. Typical incidents include pickpocketing, purse snatching, theft from vehicles, assaults, and residential burglaries. Travelers should be especially alert in crowded areas, such as markets.

UnrestDemonstrations and protests have occurred without warning in Guinea and sometimes result in violence. These events can develop around political issues, large events, or holidays. Security forces may use tear gas and gunfire to disperse crowds. Demonstrations may disrupt transportation and essential services.

HealthGuinea’s health infrastructure is limited. Access to necessary healthcare may not be available. Health services, hygiene, and quality control do not meet U.S. standards of care. Local drinking water is unsafe. Pharmacies are not well regulated, and locally available medications may be unsafe.

If you decide to travel to Guinea:

• Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
• Do not display signs of wealth, like expensive watches, jewelry, or phones.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Exercise caution when walking or driving at night.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Stay alert when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Ask permission prior to taking pictures of government buildings.
• Check with your doctor about required vaccines and shots for high-risk exposure before you go to Guinea. Review the Health section in the Travel Guidance for Guinea.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate.  Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Guinea.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Guinea.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

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Malawi - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Wed, 25 Feb 2026

There was no change to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise increased caution to Malawi due to crime and unrest.

Advisory summary

Crime

Violent crime such as theft, burglary, armed robbery, and assault is common. The capabilities of the Malawi Police Service are growing, but its resources and ability to deter and investigate crimes are limited. They also struggle to assist victims and apprehend criminals.

Unrest

Demonstrations may occur more often because of political issues and events like elections. Tear gas is often used at these protests, and roads might be blocked.

If you decide to travel to Malawi:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Malawi.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Malawi.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
• Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Check local media for breaking events. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.

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Lebanon - Level 4: Do Not Travel

Mon, 23 Feb 2026

Updated to reflect ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members of government personnel on February 23.

Do Not Travel to Lebanon due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, unexploded landmines, and the risk of armed conflict. Some areas, especially near the borders, have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

On February 23 the Department of State ordered the departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members of government personnel due to the security situation in Beirut. U.S. Embassy Beirut personnel are restricted from personal travel without advance permission. Additional travel restrictions may be imposed on U.S. personnel under Chief of Mission security responsibility, with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats.

Country Summary: U.S. citizens in Lebanon should be aware that consular officers from the U.S. Embassy are not always able to travel to assist them. The Department of State considers the threat to U.S. government personnel in Beirut serious enough to require them to live and work under strict security. The internal security policies of the U.S. Embassy may be adjusted at any time and without advance notice.

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Lebanon. Terrorists may conduct attacks with little or no warning targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.

Local security authorities have noted a rise in violent crimes, including political violence. Multiple unsolved killings in Lebanon may have been politically motivated.

Kidnapping, whether for ransom, political motives, or family disputes, has occurred in Lebanon. Suspects in kidnappings may have ties to terrorist or criminal organizations.

Unexploded landmines and explosive remnants of war are a hazard along the border with Syria. Heed land mine warning signs. Do not venture off the road into areas marked off with red and white plastic tape. Avoid roadside ditches, shoulders, and unmarked trails. Never touch anything resembling unexploded munitions.

U.S. citizens should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings or protests as these have the potential to turn violent quickly and with little notice. Protesters have blocked major roads, including thoroughfares between downtown Beirut and the area where the U.S. Embassy is located, and between Beirut and Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Lebanon.

If you decide to travel to Lebanon:

• Visit our website for information on Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Appoint one family member to serve as the point of contact with kidnappers/hostage-takers, media, U.S. and host country government agencies, and members of Congress if you are kidnapped, or taken hostage.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Do not touch unknown metal objects and avoid traveling off well-used roads, tracks, and paths due to risk of unexploded ordnance.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook  and X.
• Review the Country Security Report for Lebanon.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Southern Lebanon – Level 4: Do Not Travel, Depart If You Are There (See map below)

The U.S. Embassy strongly urges U.S. citizens to avoid southern Lebanon and to depart if you are there; that is, all parts of Lebanon south of the city of Saida, to include inland areas, as illustrated in the map below. There have continued to be instances of military activity in South Lebanon and near the Syrian border since the November 2024 cessation of hostilities arrangement.

Border with Syria – Level 4: Do Not Travel, Depart If You Are There

The U.S. Embassy strongly urges U.S. citizens to avoid the Lebanon-Syria border and to depart if you are there. This area has seen clashes between Lebanese security forces and Syrian-based groups, as well as recent airstrikes. The U.S. Department of State also warns U.S. citizens of the risk of traveling on flights that fly over Syria, which include some flights to and from Beirut.

Refugee Settlements – Level 4: Do Not Travel, Depart If You Are There

The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to avoid travel to refugee settlements in Lebanon and depart if you are there. These settlements are prone to outbreaks of violence including shootings and explosions.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

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Malaysia - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Sun, 22 Feb 2026

Exercise normal precaution

in Malaysia. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Malaysia is generally a safe destination for travelers.

Exercise increased caution on islands and maritime areas off the coast of Eastern Sabah from Kudat in the north to Tawau in the south due to risk of kidnapping.

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Afghanistan - Level 4: Do Not Travel

Fri, 20 Feb 2026

There was no change to the advisory level.

Do not travel to Afghanistan due to civil unrest, crime, terrorism, risk of wrongful detention, kidnapping, natural disasters, and limited health facilities.

Do not travel to Afghanistan for any reason

• We urge American citizens in Afghanistan to leave immediately. U.S. citizens seeking U.S. government help to leave the country should email their complete biographic details, contact information (email and phone number), and U.S. passport number to [email protected].
• The U.S. Embassy in Kabul suspended operations in 2021. The U.S. government cannot provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Afghanistan.
• The Taliban actively surveil and monitor travelers. U.S.-Afghan dual nationals and U.S. citizens linked to NGOs face higher risks of surveillance.  The Taliban’s so-called General Directorate of Intelligence (GDI) and the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice and Complaints (PVPV) are responsible for enforcing directives and edicts issued by Taliban authorities.
• Multiple terrorist groups are active in Afghanistan. U.S. citizens are targets of kidnapping and hostage-taking, and may become targets for violence.

There is a high risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals in Afghanistan.

• All American citizens, including tourists and U.S.-Afghan dual nationals, are targeted for detention. Lawful Permanent Residents who previously supported the United States in Afghanistan may also be targeted. For example, anyone who worked as an interpreter could be targeted. The Taliban have harassed and detained aid, faith-based organization, and humanitarian workers. Foreigners are often viewed with suspicion. Reasons for detention may be unclear or arbitrary.
• Even if you are registered with the appropriate authorities to conduct business, the risk of detention is high.  
• Detention conditions are severe. The Taliban do not permit the United States to conduct welfare checks on U.S. citizens in detention, including by phone.
• Detention can be long. Even if a case is determined to be a wrongful detention, there is no guarantee of release. While in detention, American citizens have limited or no access to medical attention. They may face physical abuse.

Natural disaster

• Afghanistan is a seismically active region, with frequent and devastating earthquakes. Earthquakes have caused mass casualties and critical damage to homes and infrastructure. In September 2025, a 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck the eastern region of Afghanistan, killing over 1,100 people.

Aviation Safety Oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Afghanistan's Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program.  
  

The FAA has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Afghanistan. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Afghanistan.

For U.S. citizens in Afghanistan despite this Travel Advisory:

• Be aware of your surroundings and monitor local security developments at all times.
• Keep a low profile.
• Monitor local media for breaking news and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Share your travel and movement plans with a trusted person.
• Make contingency plans to leave Afghanistan that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or power of attorney.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
• Leave DNA samples with your medical provider for family access if needed.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates and ensure you can be located in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter/X.
• Consider the risks involved in traveling while possessing dual U.S.-Afghan nationality.
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Read the Country Security Report for Afghanistan.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. 

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Cote d Ivoire - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Wed, 18 Feb 2026

There was no change to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise increased caution in Côte d’Ivoire due to crime, terrorism, unrest, health, and piracy in nearby waters. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. 

Do Not Travel to the northern border region due to risks of crime and terrorism.

Advisory summary

Do not travel to the northern border region of Côte d’Ivoire for any reason.

U.S. government employee travel restrictions

The U.S. government has a limited ability to provide routine or emergency services to U.S. citizens outside of Abidjan. U.S. government employees working in Côte d’Ivoire are not allowed to drive outside major cities at night and require two-car convoys for official travel outside of coastal and major north/south highways. U.S. citizens are advised to take the same precautions.

Crime

Crime continues to be a concern in Côte d’Ivoire. Violent crime, including carjacking, robbery, and home invasion, is common in some areas. Local police often lack resources to respond to serious crimes. Stay aware of your surroundings in urban areas and crowded markets. Police roadblocks may be present throughout the country, and though not common recently, unofficial roadblocks may be encountered in some locations.  

Terrorism

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity, in Côte d’Ivoire. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Terrorists may attack without warning:

• Spots frequented by foreigners anywhere in the country
• Night clubs
• Schools
• Hotels
• Restaurants
• Places of worship
• International diplomatic missions
• Local security forces and civilians

Unrest

Travelers should avoid demonstrations, protests, political rallies, and large crowds.  These events can become violent. Demonstrators and security forces may clash suddenly. Police may use tear gas or other force to break up crowds.

Health

• Health facilities are available in major cities, although medical services for routine and emergency procedures may be limited. Health infrastructure in rural areas of Côte d’Ivoire is less adequate. Health services, including routine and emergency procedures, are often unavailable or may not meet U.S. standards of care. Hospitals and doctors may require payment up front prior to service or admission.
• There are often shortages of medicine, medical supplies, and basic resources in public and private health facilities. Pharmacies are not well regulated.  Locally available medications may be unsafe.

Piracy

Ships at sea near Côte d’Ivoire are vulnerable to major threats from piracy, armed robbery, and kidnapping for ransom. U.S. citizens on vessels in the Gulf of Guinea off West Africa should stay alert. 

Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do Not Travel to areas of northern border region due to crime and terrorism

The main terrorist threat to Côte d’Ivoire is from a group called Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM). JNIM is linked to al-Qa’ida and mostly operates in the Sahel region, including Burkina Faso and Mali. In the past, JNIM has crossed the border from Burkina Faso to conduct attacks in northern Côte d’Ivoire.  Attacks have occurred in the Savanes and Zanzan Districts, including Comoé National Park. These attacks have mainly targeted Ivoirian security forces, and sometimes civilians.

Al-Qa’ida in the Lands of the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) has carried out small-scale attacks in northern Côte d’Ivoire. After these attacks, the Ivoirian Armed Forces formed the Northern Operational Zone (ZON) to protect the region, and the government established the Counterterrorism Operational Intelligence Center (CROAT) and International Counterterrorism Academy (AILCT) as part of a national effort to stop terrorism. There have been no recent known incidents of violent extremism in the region, although risks remain along the northern border and in the northeast corner of Côte d’Ivoire. 

If you decide to travel to Côte d’Ivoire:         

• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Review our information on Terrorism, Travel to High-Risk Areas, Crime Abroad, U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad, and for Victims of Crime.
• Give your itinerary to a family member or friend.
• Develop a communication plan with family, your employer, or host organization. This helps them monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. Specify how you'll confirm you're safe (text, calls, etc.), how often, and who you'll contact first to share the information.
• Carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable). Leave originals in your hotel safe.
• Do not display signs of wealth, like expensive watches or jewelry.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Overseas Security Advisory Council OSAC Country Security Report for Côte d’Ivoire.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Côte d’Ivoire. 
• Whether you are a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.

We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel.  Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

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Slovakia - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Thu, 12 Feb 2026

Exercise normal precaution

in Slovakia.

Slovakia is generally a safe destination for travelers.Review our travel guidance for Slovakia to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

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The Kyrgyz Republic - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Tue, 10 Feb 2026

There was no change to the advisory level. The "unrest” risk indicator was added, and the “other” risk indicator was removed. Advisory Summary was updated.

Exercise normal precautions in the Kyrgyz Republic. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Advisory SummaryThe Kyrgyz Republic is generally a safe destination for travelers.

Review our travel guidance for the Kyrgyz Republic to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

UnrestU.S. citizen safety may be threatened by political, economic, religious, or other instability and violence. Demonstrations, protests, or armed conflict may threaten your physical safety and prevent you from accessing help or evacuating the area.

If you decide to travel to the Kyrgyz Republic:

• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Have a plan to depart in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for the Kyrgyz Republic.
• Whether you are a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for the Kyrgyz Republic. We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

Level 2: Exercise increased caution - Border Region with Tajikistan 

Exercise increased caution in areas within 30 kilometers of the border with Tajikistan. On March 13, 2025, the Kyrgyz Republic and Tajikistan signed a bilateral agreement to resume cross-border movement, but the status of the border crossings may change with short notice.

• There are 2 checkpoints on the border that are open for transit.
• There are no travel restrictions for U.S. citizens crossing the border.
• Visitors to the Batken region, especially the Batken and Leilek districts, should remain cautious. There is a recent history of border clashes, so stay vigilant.

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Niger - Level 4: Do Not Travel

Thu, 29 Jan 2026

Do not travel

to Niger for any reason due to crime, unrest, terrorism, health, and kidnapping. 

On January 30, 2026, the Department of State ordered non-emergency government employees and their family members to leave Niger due to safety risks. 

The U.S. government cannot offer routine or emergency services to U.S. citizens outside of Niamey due to safety risks.

A state of emergency and movement restrictions are in place in many regions throughout Niger.

• Nigerien authorities require military escorts for any foreigners traveling outside Niamey, including U.S. government personnel.
• Areas under a state of emergency are off-limits and subject to change.

U.S. government employee travel restrictions U.S. government employees working in Niger must:

• Travel in armored vehicles for all movements, and
• Observe a mandatory curfew.

All restaurants and open-air markets are off-limits to U.S. government employees working in Niger.

U.S. citizens in Niger are advised to take the same precautions.

Terrorism
There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Niger. Visit the U.S. Department of State's Country Reports on Terrorism to learn more.

Terrorists continue to plot attacks and use kidnapping for ransom as a business model. They target vulnerable groups and U.S. interests.

Terrorists and their supporters are active in planning kidnappings in Niger and they may attack anywhere. Recent attacks and kidnappings have occurred in:

• Niamey
• The Malian border area (Tillabéri Region, Tri-Border Zone)
• The Diffa Region (Lake Chad Basin)
• Northern Agadez
• The southern border corridor along the Niger-Benin oil pipeline

Kidnapping
Terrorist groups continue planning kidnappings of foreigners in Niger.

Crime
Violent crimes can happen at any time. Crimes include armed robbery and residential break-ins.

Unrest Demonstrations may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on holidays and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable.
• The Nigerien government limits or does not authorize large gatherings. It increases security presence around planned protests. This includes stationary checkpoints and roadblocks.

Health Medical services in Niger are limited. Adequate trauma and ambulance services are not widely available. There is limited access to medicines including antibiotics. Even a minor health issue may require medical evacuation at your expense.

• Find out if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad. Most U.S. plans do not. 
• If you purchase medical travel insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from your medical insurance. Follow their guidance and instructions for filing claims. 
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. 

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Uzbekistan - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Mon, 26 Jan 2026

Exercise normal precaution

in Uzbekistan.

Uzbekistan is generally a safe destination for U.S. travelers.

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Bangladesh - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Tue, 20 Jan 2026

There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

Reconsider travel to Bangladesh due to kidnapping, unrest, crime, and terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Advisory summary

UnrestUnrest and violence have decreased since summer 2024 with the formation of the Interim Government. Occasional protests continue with the potential for violent clashes. Conditions may change on short notice. U.S. citizens should avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones. They can turn violent quickly without warning.

CrimeIn Bangladesh’s major cities, common crimes include muggings, burglaries, assaults, and illegal drug trafficking.

Stay aware of petty crime, such as pickpocketing, in crowded areas. These crimes tend to be situational, based on time and location. There is no evidence that foreigners are targeted because of their nationality.

TerrorismTerrorist violence is a risk in Bangladesh. This includes terrorist attacks and other activity. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

KidnappingReview the following risks in specific areas information on the Chittagong Hill Tracts Region for a description of kidnapping risks.

Travel restrictions for U.S. government employeesU.S. citizens in Bangladesh should take the same precautions as U.S. embassy employees.

• Due to security risks, U.S. government employees working in Bangladesh cannot travel outside the diplomatic enclave for non-essential reasons. They must take extra security and accountability precautions if they do.
• U.S. government employees in Bangladesh can travel freely within the diplomatic enclave.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Bangladesh, particularly outside of Dhaka. This is due to these travel restrictions, a lack of infrastructure, and few emergency response resources from the local government.

Level 4 - Do Not Travel - Chittagong Hill Tracts RegionDo not travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts due to unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. This area includes Khagrachari, Rangamati, and Bandarban Hill Tracts districts. Do not travel to this area for any reason.

• Kidnappings have happened in the region. Some are due to family disputes, while others target religious minorities.
• Separatist groups and political violence create more risks for visitors. There have been cases of IED explosions and active shootings.
• You must get prior approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs Office of Public Safety in Bangladesh if you want to travel to these areas.
• Due to the risks, U.S. government employees in Bangladesh cannot travel to the region. The Government of Bangladesh has imposed these restrictions.
• Visit our website Travel to High-Risk Areas.

If you decide to travel to Bangladesh:

• Avoid demonstrations and political gatherings. Demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. 
• Review our information on U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad, Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Review our information on Terrorism and Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Get to a safe area and report any criminal incident to local authorities.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Bangladesh.
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Bangladesh.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverageDo not travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts due to unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. This area includes Khagrachari, Rangamati, and Bandarban Hill Tracts districts. Do not travel to this area for any reason.
• Kidnappings have happened in the region. Some are due to family disputes, while others target religious minorities.
• Separatist groups and political violence create more risks for visitors. There have been cases of IED explosions and active shootings.
• You must get prior approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs Office of Public Safety in Bangladesh if you want to travel to these areas.
• Due to the risks, U.S. government employees in Bangladesh cannot travel to the region. The Government of Bangladesh has imposed these restrictions.
• Visit our website Travel to High-Risk Areas.

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Jamaica - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Sat, 17 Jan 2026

The advisory level was decreased to Level 2. There were no changes to the risk indicators. The advisory summary was updated.

Exercise Increased Caution due to crime, health, and natural disaster risks. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Advisory Summary

U.S. government employee travel restrictionsU.S. government employees working in Jamaica are not allowed to use public buses or drive between cities at night. They are also not allowed to travel to certain high-risk areas, as noted below.

U.S. citizens in Jamaica should take the same precautions.

Natural disaster

Jamaica continues to recover from Hurricane Melissa, which made landfall there on October 28, 2025. The hurricane caused widespread damage to the western part of the island. Some areas are still experiencing post-storm impacts on infrastructure and services. 

• All major airports have reopened for commercial flights.
• Some areas in the western part of Jamaica, such as Black River and Montego Bay, are in varying stages of recovery from the hurricane. Exercise increased caution if traveling to affected areas at this time.
• Confirm availability of services and amenities at your destination before you travel to Jamaica.

Crime

• Violent crime is a risk throughout Jamaica. The homicide rate reported by the Government of Jamaica is among the highest in the Western Hemisphere.
• Tourist areas generally see lower rates of violent crime than other parts of the country.
• Armed robberies and sexual assaults are common.
• The U.S. embassy routinely receives reports of sexual assaults, including from U.S. citizen tourists at resorts.
• U.S. citizens report slow or unsatisfactory response to serious criminal incidents.
• When arrests are made, cases are often not prosecuted to a final verdict and sentence.

HealthBasic and specialized medical care may not be available in many parts of Jamaica. This includes slower emergency service response times and less availability of care for illness or injury.

• Health care facilities in western Jamaica were badly damaged by Hurricane Melissa.
• Private hospitals require payment up front before admitting patients. They may not be able to provide specialized care.
• Ambulance services are not always staffed with EMTs. They are not always readily available, especially in rural areas.
• U.S. citizens should bring extra prescription medication. Common medications, such as insulin, can be difficult to obtain.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not apply abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Air ambulance service to the United States costs $30,000 on the low end.
• We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance and confirm your coverage. Travel insurance should include medical insurance, evacuation assistance, and other trip coverage.

The Department of State does not pay medical bills.

Level 4 - Do Not Travel

High crime areas

Do Not Travel to high crime areas due to risk of crime.

U.S. government employee travel restrictions

U.S. government employees working in Jamaica are not allowed to travel to the following high-risk areas. U.S. citizens in Jamaica are advised to take the same precautions.

Do not travel to these areas for any reason:

• St. Ann’s Parish - Steer Town and the Buckfield neighborhood near Ocho Rios.
• St. Catherine’s Parish - Spanish Town, Central Village, areas within Portmore, including: Naggo Head, New Land, Old Braeton, Portmore Lane, Gregory Park, and Waterford.
• Clarendon Parish - All of Clarendon Parish, except passing through Clarendon Parish using the T1 and A2 highways.
• St. Elizabeth’s Parish - Vineyard District Community, between the communities of Salt Spring and Burnt Savanna, St. Elizabeth.
• Hanover Parish - Logwood and Orange Bay.
• St. James Parish/Montego Bay - Inland side of the A1 highway and The Queen’s Drive from San San to Harmony Beach Park.
• Kingston and St. Andrew Parish - Cassava Piece, Duhaney Park, Grants Pen, Standpipe, Swallowfield, Elleston Flats, August Town, and downtown Kingston, defined as between Mountain View Avenue and Hagley Park Road, and south of Half Way Tree and Old Hope Roads. Downtown Kingston includes Arnett Gardens, Cockburn Gardens, Denham Town, Olympic Gardens, Seaview Gardens, Trench Town, and Tivoli Gardens.
• Manchester Parish - Green Vale and Gray Ground neighborhoods of Mandeville.
• St. Thomas Parish - Black Lane neighborhood in Seaforth, Grands Penn, Church Corner neighborhood near Yallahs, Town of Yallahs, except when driving through on the main highway.
• Trelawny Parish - Clarks Town.
• Westmoreland Parish - Russia community in Savanna-la-Mar (The Southeastern quadrant of Savannah la Mar east of Darling Street and south of the A2 highway/Barracks Road), Morgan Bay, Kings Valley, The Whitehall, Bethel Town, and Red Ground neighborhoods of Negril.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

If you decide to travel to Jamaica:

• Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Do not attempt to bring firearms or ammunition. This includes stray rounds, shells, or empty casings. The penalties for carrying firearms or ammunition, even by mistake, are severe, and can include long prison sentences.
• Avoid walking or driving at night.
• Avoid public buses.
• Avoid remote places.
• Stay aware of your surroundings and keep a low profile.
• Have a plan to depart in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Jamaica.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Jamaica.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

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The Gambia - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Fri, 16 Jan 2026

Exercise increased caution

in The Gambia due to crime, unrest, and inadequate health infrastructure. 

CrimePetty street crime and home burglaries happen often in The Gambia. This is most common in the Banjul area and tourist spots.

Do not display cash and valuable personal property. Avoid walking alone, including on beaches, in tourist areas, and after dark.

UnrestA separatist rebel group operates in the Casamance region of southern Senegal. There has been sporadic fighting along The Gambia’s southern border in the recent past. Stay on main roads and do not travel at night if travelling near or across the southern border.

Health
The Gambia’s health infrastructure is inadequate. Health services, hygiene, and quality control do not meet U.S. standards of care. Pharmacies are not well regulated. Locally available medications may be unsafe.

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Central African Republic - Level 4: Do Not Travel

Thu, 15 Jan 2026

Do not travel

to Central African Republic due to risk of unrest, crime, kidnapping, landmines, health, and terrorism.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Central African Republic.

• U.S. government employees working in the Central African Republic must get special authorization to travel outside of Bangui. They are required to travel in armored vehicles in Bangui and are subject to a curfew.
• Family members cannot join U.S. government employees who work in the Central African Republic.

Unrest
There is a continuing risk of civil unrest, demonstrations, and election-related violence. This includes renewed outbreaks of armed conflict occurring throughout the country.

• Unrest can happen in the capital of Bangui.
• Armed groups and opposition forces control large areas of the country. They regularly kidnap, injure, or kill civilians.
• Airport, land border crossings, and road closures may occur without warning.

Crime
Violent crime is common. It includes homicide, kidnapping, armed robbery, aggravated battery, and larceny.

Kidnapping
Criminal gangs and armed groups kidnap for ransom on a frequent basis, mainly outside of Bangui. Local law enforcement officials are not equipped or trained to handle the threat of kidnapping.

Other - Landmines
Unexploded landmines are unmarked. They are a known risk. Landmines may be present anywhere outside Bangui, particularly:

• Along the border with Cameroon
• In the tri-border region with Chad in Sector West
• Near Bambari in Sector East

Health
Medical services in the Central African Republic are extremely limited. There is no adequate medical treatment available for routine and emergency procedures. Even minor health issues could require medical evacuation at your expense.

• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.
• If you purchase medical travel insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from your medical insurance. Be sure to follow their guidance and instructions for filing claims.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations
Make sure you are up to date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Travelers are required to show proof of yellow fever vaccination for all arriving travelers (at least 9 months old). CDC recommends that travelers going to the Central African Republic take prescription medicine to prevent malaria.

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Terrorism
Ineffective border controls may allow criminal and terrorist groups to seek temporary refuge in the Central African Republic. Be alert to your surroundings. Terrorists can attack without warning. They may target foreign and local government facilities as well as tourist areas.

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Comoros - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Mon, 12 Jan 2026

Exercise increased caution

in Comoros due to crime, unrest, and health.

There is no full-time official U.S. presence in Comoros. Consular services for U.S. citizens in Comoros are provided by the U.S. embassy in Madagascar.

Crime Petty crime is common in Comoros. Stay aware of your surroundings. Comoros has also had reports of piracy. Small crafts on the open seas are vulnerable to attack.

Unrest - demonstrations Protests occur spontaneously in Comoros and can happen due to political factors. Most protests occur in Moroni, and some have turned violent. Protesters have also engaged in the destruction of property.

Health Healthcare, including ambulance services, is limited in Moroni. It is very limited in rural areas. Medical care in rural areas often requires transportation to Moroni.  Medical evacuation from Comoros is often needed for significant injuries and illnesses.

Review our information on Health in the Travel Guidance section

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Mali - Level 4: Do Not Travel

Fri, 09 Jan 2026

This Travel Advisory reflects updates in U.S. Embassy Bamako’s posture as of January 9, 2026.  On October 30, 2025, the Department of State ordered non-emergency employees and family members to leave Mali due to safety risks.  As of January 9, 2026, the Department of State has normalized operations at U.S. Embassy Bamako noting the following conditions.

Do Not Travel to Mali for any reason due to crime, terrorism, kidnapping, unrest and health.

Advisory summaryAs of January 9, the Department of State has lifted its ordered departure mandate for non-emergency Embassy employees and their family members.

U.S. government employee travel restrictions

• U.S. government employees working in Mali are not allowed to travel outside of Bamako due to safety risks.
• U.S. citizens in Mali are advised to take the same precautions.

CrimeViolent crime is common throughout Mali. Crimes include kidnapping, assault, armed robbery, home invasion, and carjacking.

Violent crime is a major concern in Bamako especially during  local holidays and seasonal events.

• Roadblocks, including by armed groups, occur throughout the country.
• In cities, police checkpoints are possible, especially at night.
• Highways across the country often face attacks on government, civilian, and commercial targets.

TerrorismThere is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mali. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Terrorist and armed groups target foreigners to kidnap for ransom.

Terrorists may attack without warning:

• Spots frequented by foreigners anywhere in the country
• Night clubs
• Hotels
• Restaurants
• Places of worship
• International diplomatic missions
• Local security forces and civilians

KidnappingThe threat of kidnapping of Westerners by criminal or terrorist groups remains high throughout the region. Extortion and kidnapping for ransom are significant sources of financing for terrorist and criminal groups.

UnrestPeriodic street demonstrations occur throughout Mali. Although some are planned and peaceful, demonstrations can occur spontaneously and turn violent. The majority of these are contained by security forces, but U.S. citizens should avoid street demonstrations and always maintain security awareness.

Armed Conflict
Armed conflict between the Malian government and armed groups is common throughout Mali. Many terrorist and separatist armed groups are active throughout the country. These groups may plan and carry out deadly attacks against Malian government and military facilities, including in and around Bamako. Conflict between these groups often results in civilian casualties. 

Air TravelThe Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby Mali.

For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.   

HealthMedical services for routine and emergency procedures are limited. Health facilities are available in major cities. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.

• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Patients must cover all costs for transferring to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.
• Hospital-based care is only available through government institutions.
• Read the Health section of the Travel Guidance on this page for more information.  

For U.S. citizens in Mali:

• The Department of State urges U.S. citizens not to travel to Mali.
• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.  
• Establish your own personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization. Consider consulting with a professional security organization.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the OSAC Country Security Report (formerly known as the Overseas Security Advisory Council) for Mali.
• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Draft a will. Designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or draft a power of attorney.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care or custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
• Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones. This helps them manage your affairs if you cannot return to the United States.
• Develop a communication plan with family, your employer, or host organization. This helps them monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. Specify how you'll confirm you're safe (text, calls, etc.), how often, and who you'll contact first to share the information.
• Identify key sources of possible help for you and your family in case of emergency, such as the local U.S. embassy or consulate, FBI, the State Department, your employer (if traveling on business), and local friends or family in the high-risk area. 
• Choose 1 family member to serve as the point of contact. If you are kidnapped or taken hostage, that person can communicate with kidnappers or hostage-takers, media, U.S. or foreign government agencies, and members of Congress.
• Establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones. If you are taken hostage, your loved ones will know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to confirm that you are being held captive and alive.
• Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them for identification purposes.
• Use all available safety measures in your home or hotel, always including locking doors and windows, and setting the alarm.
• If asked to stop by police, stop only in well-lit areas or places where several officers are posted.
• Before you travel, delete any sensitive photos, comments, or content that might be seen as controversial or inappropriate in your destination. Do this for your social media accounts, cameras, laptops, phones, and other accounts and devices.
• Leave your expensive or sentimental belongings behind.
• Refer to our list of medical providers.
• Make sure your insurance includes medical evacuation coverage.
• Check with your doctor about required vaccines and shots for high-risk exposure before you go to Mali.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. 
• Review our information on Travel to High-Risk Areas, Crime Abroad, Victims of Crime, Terrorism, and U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad

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Czechia - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Thu, 08 Jan 2026

Exercise normal precaution

in Czechia.

Czechia is generally a safe destination for travelers. Travelers should remain vigilant against petty crime, such as pickpocketing and other minor theft, especially in tourist areas and on public transportation. Follow local laws and guidance from Czech authorities during your stay.

Review our travel guidance for the Czech Republic to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

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Palau - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Wed, 07 Jan 2026

Exercise normal precaution

in Palau. Some areas have increased risk.

Palau is generally a safe destination for travelers. U.S. citizens should always exercise caution when traveling abroad. Use the travel guidance here to stay safe.

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Benin - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Wed, 07 Jan 2026

There was no change to the advisory level. The “unrest” risk indicator was added. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise Increased Caution in Benin due to unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to areas of Benin bordering Burkina Faso; Niger; and the Nigerian states of Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara due to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.

Advisory summaryDo not travel to the border region in northern or northeastern Benin for any reason.

U.S. government employee travel restrictionsU.S. government employees working in Benin are not allowed to travel to the following areas without Ambassador approval due to safety risks:

• Alibori Department
• Atacora Department
• Borgou Department in areas north, east, and west of Parakou
• Donga Department in the area north of Djougou
• Official travel in Borgou Department north, east, and west of Parakou as well as official travel in Donga Department north of Djougou is authorized for day trips only.
• Safety risks prevent emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in the areas of Benin bordering Burkina Faso; Niger; and the Nigerian states of Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara.
• There are no safety risks in Benin that would stop the U.S. government’s ability to offer routine or emergency services, except in the identified areas of concern.

CrimeMost coastal and southern areas of Benin are safe. However, violent crime can occur in remote locations. These crimes often happen at night and include kidnapping, assault, and armed robbery.

Stay aware of your surroundings in:

• Urban areas and crowded markets.
• Areas near roadblocks, which may be manned by armed groups. Armed groups are present throughout the country.

TerrorismThere is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Benin. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Terrorist and armed groups have attacked areas near the borders with Burkina Faso and Niger. There have also been kidnappings for ransom in areas of the Alibori and Borgou Departments near the Nigerian border.

Terrorists may target:

• Places frequented by foreigners anywhere in the country
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Schools
• Places of worship
• International diplomatic missions
• Local security forces

UnrestThere have been instances of military activity and civil unrest that resulted in violence in Benin. This type of violence may lead to road and land border closures as well as impacted operations at the Cotonou International Airport. Although U.S. citizens have not been targeted, sporadic military activity or civil unrest may happen suddenly and poses a risk.

KidnappingKidnapping for ransom occurs in Benin. Criminal groups and terrorist organizations target both locals and foreign visitors.

Level 4 - Do Not Travel - Benin’s northern and northeastern border regions

Do Not Travel to areas of Benin bordering Burkina Faso; Niger; and the Nigerian states of Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara due to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.

Terrorists and criminal organizations carry out attacks in northern Benin. Foreign nationals and residents are at risk of kidnapping in this region. The areas of greatest risk are:

• Pendjari and W National Parks
• Alibori Department
• Atacora Department
• The Forest of the Three Rivers
• The Oueme Superior Forest
• All areas east of Route Nationale 10 up to the Benin-Nigeria border, including the cities of Kalele, Nikki, and Segbana

If you decide to travel to Benin:

• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Review our information on Terrorism, Travel to High-Risk Areas, Crime Abroad, U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad, and for Victims of Crime.
• Give your itinerary to a family member or friend.
• Develop a communication plan with family, your employer, or host organization. This helps them monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. Specify how you'll confirm you're safe (text, calls, etc.), how often, and who you'll contact first to share the information.
• Carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable). Leave originals in your hotel safe.
• Do not display signs of wealth, like expensive watches or jewelry.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Benin.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Benin. 
• Whether you are a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

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Grenada - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Mon, 05 Jan 2026

The advisory level was increased to 2. The “crime” risk indicator was added. Areas of increased risk were removed. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise Increased Caution in Grenada due to risk of crime.

Advisory summaryViolent crime can occur anywhere in Grenada. American citizens in Grenada have been victims of armed robbery, assault, burglary, and rape. In some cases, American citizens have been killed. Police response times are not as fast as one may expect in the United States.

If you decide to travel to Grenada:

• Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Keep a low profile.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Do not answer your door at your hotel or residence unless you know who it is.
• University students: Contact campus security in the event of an on-campus emergency. Security staff may respond more quickly than local police.
• Boaters: Use caution if unfamiliar people or watercraft approach your boat, whether at anchor or at sea.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Grenada.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

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Russia - Level 4: Do Not Travel

Mon, 29 Dec 2025

Do not travel

to Russia for any reason due to terrorism, unrest, wrongful detention and other risks.

U.S. citizens in Russia should leave immediately The U.S. government has limited ability to help U.S. citizens in Russia, especially outside of Moscow. The U.S. Embassy in Moscow has reduced its staff. The Russian government has also restricted travel for embassy personnel. All U.S. consulates in Russia have suspended operations, including consular services. 

Do not travel to Russia for any reason
The U.S. Embassy in Moscow has limited ability to assist in the case of a detention of a U.S. citizen. There is no guarantee that the Russian government will grant the U.S. Embassy consular access to detained U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens may serve their entire prison sentence without  release. The risk of wrongful detention of U.S. citizens remains high. Even if a case is determined wrongful, there is no guarantee of release.

Russian officials often question and threaten U.S. citizens without reason. Russian security services have arrested U.S. citizens on false charges. They have denied them fair treatment and convicted them without credible evidence. Russian authorities have opened questionable investigations against U.S. citizens for their religious activities.

There have been drone attacks and explosions near the border with Ukraine, and in Moscow, Kazan, St. Petersburg, and other large cities. In 2024, ISIS Khorasan claimed responsibility for the attack at Crocus Music Hall in Moscow. This attack killed 130 people. They also targeted places of worship in Dagestan. In an emergency, you should follow instructions from local authorities and seek shelter.

Dual citizenship
Russia will not recognize your U.S. citizenship if you are a dual U.S.-Russian citizen or have a claim to Russian citizenship.

• Russia has blocked U.S. consular officers from visiting detained dual U.S.-Russian citizens.
• The Russian government has forced dual citizens to join the military. They also have stopped them from leaving the country.
• In 2022, Russia started drafting citizens for the war in Ukraine. The military draft is ongoing.
• Failure to adhere to Russian laws and regulations on dual citizenship can result in arrest.

Demonstrations
In Russia, peaceful assembly and freedom of speech are not protected rights. U.S. citizens should avoid protests and taking photos of security staff at these events. Russian authorities have arrested U.S. citizens who have joined protests. Russians and U.S. citizens have been detained for posts on social media.

Electronic devices
Reconsider bringing electronic devices into Russia. U.S. citizens should assume all electronic communications and devices in Russia are monitored by Russian security services. Russian security services have arrested U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals based on information found on electronic devices. This includes information that was created, transmitted, or stored while in another country.

Debit and credit cards
U.S. credit and debit cards no longer work in Russia. Due to sanctions, sending electronic money transfers from the United States to Russia is nearly impossible.  The U.S. Embassy cannot assist with transferring money to circumvent sanctions. 

Air travel There are few commercial air travel options available. It may not be easy to book flights on short notice. If you wish to leave Russia, you should make your own travel plans. The U.S. Embassy can only offer limited help to U.S. citizens trying to leave. Transportation options could become even more limited at any time.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has downgraded Russia's air safety rating from Category 1 to Category 2 due to safety concerns. U.S. government personnel are generally not allowed to fly on Russian airlines due to safety concerns.

Additionally, the FAA banned U.S. flights within certain areas of Russian airspace, by issuing a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM). This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of these certain areas. For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.

Laws and special circumstances
Russian officials have questioned, threatened, and detained U.S. citizens without reason. This includes both former and current U.S. government and military personnel, as well as private U.S. citizens. Russian authorities have a history of wrongfully detaining U.S. nationals and using them as bargaining chips.

• U.S. citizens may become victims of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion.
• Russian authorities do not always notify the U.S. embassy about the detention of a U.S. citizen. They may delay or deny U.S. consular help.
• Russian security services target foreign nationals and international organizations considered “undesirable.”
• Russian law allows authorities to punish foreigners for treason. This includes working for organizations that Russia perceives as acting against Russian interests. Former and current U.S. government employees and contractors should pay special attention to this part of Russian law.

Security
Drone attacks and explosions have taken place near the border with Ukraine and in Moscow, Kazan, St. Petersburg, and other large cities. In an emergency, you should follow instructions from local authorities and seek shelter.

Russia's war in Ukraine has destabilized security in southwestern Russia. In October 2022, the Russian government declared martial law in the following border areas with Ukraine: Bryansk, Kursk, Belgorod, Voronezh, Rostov, and Krasnodar.

Under martial law, authorities can:

• Set curfews
• Seize property
• Restrict movement
• Detain foreigners
• Forcibly relocate residents
• Limit public gatherings

Russian authorities have questioned, detained, and arrested people for “acting against Russia's interests.” Local authorities have targeted people for posting on social media or supporting "anti-Russian" groups. They have punished people for criticizing the government or military.

Gay and lesbian travelers
The Russian government's  "propaganda" law bans discussion of gay and lesbian topics. The community has been labeled as “extremist,” and it is considered a crime to support the human rights of gay and lesbian people in Russia. Displaying certain symbols, including the rainbow flag, is a crime.  Foreigners found guilty of violating this law may be arrested and detained for up to 15 days and then deported.

Terrorism
Terrorists continue to plan and carry out attacks in Russia. The March 2024 Crocus City Hall attack in Moscow proved terrorists can strike without warning.

U.S. government employees working in Russia are prohibited from traveling to the North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mt. Elbrus.

Russian annexation of territories The international community does not recognize Russia’s purported annexation of Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya.

Russia staged its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, in part, from occupied Crimea. There is a heavy Russian military presence in these areas and intense fighting across these regions.

Russian authorities have abused foreigners and locals. In particular, they have targeted people who they see as opposing Russia’s authority.

The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv, Ukraine offers consular services to U.S. citizens in Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya. However, the ongoing war limits the embassy's ability to help U.S. citizens in these areas.

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Belarus - Level 4: Do Not Travel

Mon, 29 Dec 2025

Do not travel

to Belarus for any reason due to unrest and other risks.

The U.S. government has extremely limited ability to help detained U.S. citizens. You may not receive consular access. You could also face arbitrary detention with no contact with the outside world.

Ordered departure
On February 28, 2022, the U.S. Department of State ordered the departure of U.S. government employees. It also suspended operations at U.S. Embassy Minsk.

There are no consular services, routine or emergency, until further notice. The U.S. government has severely limited ability to assist U.S. citizens in Belarus. U.S. citizens in Belarus who require consular services should leave the country immediately. Please contact a U.S. embassy or consulate in another country.

• Belarus repeatedly has blocked U.S. consular officers from visiting detained dual U.S.-Belarusian citizens. 
• The Belarusian government has prevented dual U.S.-Belarusian citizens from departing the country. In some cases, it has forced dual citizens into mandatory military service.

• U.S. citizens should avoid demonstrations. 
• Belarusian authorities have used excessive force to disperse demonstrators, including people peacefully demonstrating.  Bystanders, including foreign nationals, face the possibility of arbitrary arrest or detention.
• U.S. citizens near demonstrations have been arrested. Some have been victims of harassment or mistreatment by Belarusian officials. 
• Belarusian officials unevenly enforce laws and regulations. Belarusian authorities have targeted people linked to independent and foreign media. 
• Belarusian authorities have detained tens of thousands of people, including many imprisoned for political activities that may not be considered crimes in the United States. This includes U.S. citizens tied to opposition parties or political protests, even if they happened outside Belarus. 

Detention conditions
Belarusian detention facilities are extremely poor. There are credible reports that authorities mistreat and abuse prisoners while in custody.

• The Belarusian authorities have denied prisoners access to their embassy and lawyers. They have restricted communication with family outside prison.

Electronic devices
Reconsider bringing electronic devices into Belarus.

U.S. citizens should assume all electronic communications and devices in Belarus are monitored.

• Belarusian security services have arrested U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals based on information found on electronic devices. This includes data created, sent, or stored while in another country.

Air travel
There are few commercial air travel options available to and from Belarus.

• Flights could be unavailable on short notice. The availability of other transportation options could change at any time.
• Those wishing to leave Belarus should make their own travel plans. The U.S. government cannot help U.S. citizens trying to leave. 
• Border crossings with neighboring states sometimes close with little notice. U.S. citizens should regularly reevaluate departure plans in the event of an emergency. 

On May 23, 2021, Belarusian authorities made a commercial plane land improperly. They did this to arrest an opposition journalist on board.  EU airlines now avoid Belarusian airspace.

On February 24, 2022, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an ongoing Advisory Notice to Airmen (NOTAM). It bans U.S. air carriers and commercial operators, U.S. pilots, and U.S. registered aircraft from operating in the Minsk Flight Information Region (UMMV). This is due to safety-of-flight risks from ongoing hostilities in Belarus.

The Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices includes more information.

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Portugal - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Tue, 23 Dec 2025

Exercise normal precaution

in Portugal.

• Portugal is generally a safe destination for travelers. Travelers should remain vigilant against petty theft, particularly in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation. 
• Review our travel guidance for Portugal  to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

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Yemen - Level 4: Do Not Travel

Fri, 19 Dec 2025

Do not travel

in Yemen due to risk of terrorism, unrest, crime, health risks, kidnapping, and landmines.

U.S. citizens should not travel to Yemen for any reason. The U.S. Embassy in Sana’a suspended its operations in February 2015. The U.S. government is unable to provide emergency or routine consular services to U.S. citizens in Yemen.

Terrorism

The Department of State has re-designated Ansarallah, commonly referred to as the Houthis, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization.

• Other terrorist groups also plan and carry out attacks in Yemen. These include Al-Qa'ida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) and Islamic State affiliates.
• Terrorists may attack with little or no warning and may target: 
  • Public sites
  • Places of worship
  • Transportation hubs
  • Markets
  • Government buildings and facilities
• There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Yemen. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.
• Review our information on Terrorism and Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Unrest

A civil war continues in Yemen. Although violence has decreased since the April 2022 truce, Yemen still faces instability. Fighting continues, especially near the front lines in central Yemen.

• Travelers should not rely on significant assistance from local authorities.
• Foreigners are frequently targets of kidnapping and carjacking, especially outside of urban areas.
• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Military conflict has destroyed basic infrastructure like housing, medical facilities, schools, and utilities. This makes it hard to get electricity, clean water, and medical care. Humanitarian groups face obstacles in delivering food, medicine, and water. 

Crime

• Violent and organized crime is common in Yemen. Local law enforcement may not be able or willing to respond to serious crimes.

Health

Health services in Yemen are poor. There is a re-emergence of diseases like cholera, polio, and measles. They are spreading in Houthi-controlled areas. Medicine and medical supplies are hard to find. Adequate medical treatment for routine and emergency procedures is often not available.

If you decide to travel to Yemen:

• Make sure you have medical or travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. Review our information on Travel Insurance.
• Check with your doctor about required vaccines and shots for high-risk exposure before you go to Yemen. 
• Bring enough supply of over counter and prescription medicines to cover the duration of the trip. 
• Visit the CDC's Travel Health page for the latest information for Yemen.

Kidnapping

U.S. citizens, especially dual U.S.-Yemeni citizens, are at high risk of kidnapping and detention in Yemen.

• Young U.S. citizens may be kidnapped for forced marriage. Family members in the United States or Yemen are often involved in these kidnappings.
• The Houthis control Sana’a. They have detained U.S. citizens, including some with dual citizenship. 
• U.S. citizens have faced difficulty and delays when trying to leave Yemen.
• Review our information on U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad and for Victims of Crime.

Landmines

• Landmines and unexploded ordnance exist throughout Yemen. The locations of landmines and unexploded ordnance are often not marked or easy to recognize.

Tourism safety

Do not travel to Socotra or any part of Yemen. Some companies outside Yemen have misrepresented the safety of the Yemeni island of Socotra.

• They offer tourist trips with unofficial and invalid "visas."
• These companies put tourists in danger and legal jeopardy. 
• Only the Republic of Yemen government can issue valid Yemeni visas. 
• The U.S. government cannot assist U.S. citizens in Socotra.

Aviation safety

Limited commercial flights are available from Aden and Sana’a to other airports in the region. Check with airlines and travel companies for the latest flight information.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Yemen, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR).

• For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices.

Maritime travel

Due to risks to commercial shipping operating within or in the vicinity of Yemen territorial waters, the Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) has issued a Maritime Advisory. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Maritime Administration’s Maritime Security Communications with Industry (MSCI).

The U.S. Coast Guard determined Yemeni ports do not have effective anti-terrorism measures. Vessels that arrive in U.S. ports from Yemeni ports must meet additional U.S. Coast Guard conditions of entry as described in the current Port Security Advisory, International Port Security Program - Port Security Advisory.

• Mariners and passengers traveling through the ports of Yemen should exercise caution.

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Cabo Verde - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Thu, 18 Dec 2025

Exercise normal precaution

in Cabo Verde due to crime.

Cabo Verde is generally a safe destination for travelers. Some areas have increased risk.

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Guinea-Bissau - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Thu, 11 Dec 2025

Reconsider travel

to Guinea-Bissau due to unrest, inadequate health infrastructure, and landmines.

There is no U.S. embassy or consulate in Guinea-Bissau. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens. Consular services are provided by the U.S. embassy in Dakar, Senegal.

Unrest
Guinea-Bissau has had periods of political instability for decades, including political unrest in November 2025. Large-scale demonstrations related to the local political situation may occur with little notice. Demonstrations may disrupt transportation and other essential services.

Health
Guinea-Bissau’s health infrastructure is inadequate. Health services, hygiene, and quality control do not meet U.S. standards of care. Pharmacies are not well regulated. Locally available medications are limited and may be unsafe. Even a minor health issue may require medical evacuation at your own expense.

Landmines
Landmines and unexploded ordnance from prior conflicts exist throughout Guinea-Bissau. Areas of greatest risk are Bafata, Oio, Biombo, Quinara, and Tombali. The locations of landmines and unexploded ordnance are often not known, marked, or easy to recognize.

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Syria - Level 4: Do Not Travel

Thu, 11 Dec 2025

Do not travel

to Syria for any reason due to the risk of terrorism, unrest, kidnapping, hostage taking, crime, and armed conflict.

Do not travel to Syria for any reason.

The U.S. government suspended U.S. Embassy operations in 2012. The Czech Republic is the protecting power for the United States in Syria. The U.S. government cannot offer emergency or routine consular services to U.S. citizens in Syria due to the safety risks. 

Armed conflict
Syria has experienced active armed conflict since 2011. No part of Syria is safe from violence. Hostage taking, terrorism, unexploded ordnance, and aerial bombardment pose significant risk of death or serious injury. The destruction of infrastructure, housing, medical facilities, schools, and power and water utilities has also increased hardships in Syria.

The U.S. government strongly warns private U.S. citizens against traveling to Syria to engage in armed conflict. The U.S. government does not support this activity. U.S. citizens who undertake such activity face extreme personal risks, including being taken hostage, injury, or death.

Terrorism
There is risk of terrorist violence in Syria. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more. 

• Bombings, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and assassinations remain a threat in parts of Syria. 
• Providing material support or resources to designated foreign terrorist organizations, including ISIS and al-Qa’ida (AQ) affiliates, is a crime under U.S. law that can result in prison time and large fines.

Hostage taking

• Hostage taking of U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals continues to be a risk throughout the country.  

Air travel
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby Syria. 

• For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices. 
• Review our Travel Guidance for additional information on Syria, including alerts related to the closure of airspace.

Maritime travel

• The U.S. Coast Guard determined Syrian ports do not have effective anti-terrorism measures. Vessels that arrive in U.S. ports from Syrian ports must meet additional U.S. Coast Guard conditions of entry as described in the current Port Security Advisory, International Port Security Program - Port Security Advisory. 
• Mariners and passengers traveling through Syrian ports should be careful and use strong security measures.  

Czech Protecting Power in Damascus
The U.S. government suspended U.S. Embassy operations in 2012. The Czech Republic serves as the protecting power for the United States in Syria. 

The Czech Protecting Power provides only emergency services to U.S. citizens, including:

• Acceptance of applications for emergency passports
• Consular Report of Death Abroad (CRODA) applications
• Emergency financial assistance
• Assistance to detained U.S. nationals
• Welfare and whereabouts checks for U.S. citizens when security conditions permit 

For routine consular services, including applying for a full-validity U.S. passport or Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA), and notarial services, U.S. citizens must visit a U.S. embassy or consulate outside Syria or return to the United States.  

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Liberia - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Thu, 11 Dec 2025

There was no change to the advisory level.  The “health” risk indictor was added. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise increased caution in Liberia due to crime, unrest, and health.

Advisory summary

Crime
Violent crime, such as armed robbery are common in urban areas, crowded markets, and public beaches. Local police lack the resources to respond effectively to serious crimes.

If traveling outside the capital city of Monrovia, try to finish your trip during daylight hours. It’s safer to avoid travel at night due to safety and security concerns. 

Unrest
Demonstrations occur regularly. They have on occasion resulted in violence or use of tear gas by authorities.

Large-scale demonstrations related to the local political situation may
occur with little notice. Demonstrations may disrupt transportation
and other essential services

Health

• The health infrastructure in Liberia is inadequate. Health services, hygiene, and quality control do not meet U.S. standards of care. 
• Pharmacies are not well regulated. Locally available medications may be unsafe.
• Medical services for routine and emergency procedures are limited. Health facilities are available in major cities. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.

Review the Health section of the Travel Guidance on this page for more information.

U.S. government employee travel restrictions

• U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling outside the capital or between counties after dark due to the safety and security risk. The only exception is travel to and from Roberts International Airport.
• U.S. citizens in Liberia are advised to take the same precautions.

If you decide to travel to Liberia:

• Review our information on Crime Abroad and Victims of Crime.
• Review our information on U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad.
• Carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable). Leave originals in your hotel safe.
• Do not display signs of wealth, like expensive watches or jewelry.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Refer to our list of medical providers.
• Make sure your insurance includes medical evacuation coverage.
• Check with your doctor about required vaccines and shots for high-risk exposure to malaria and yellow fever before you go to Liberia.
  Bring enough supplies of over the counter and prescription medicines in your carry-on luggage.to cover the duration of the trip.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Overseas Security Advisory Council Country Security Report for Liberia.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Liberia. 
• Whether you are a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

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Seychelles - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Tue, 09 Dec 2025

Exercise normal precaution

in Seychelles. Some areas have increased risk.

Seychelles is generally a safe destination for travelers.

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Mauritius - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Mon, 08 Dec 2025

Exercise increased caution

in Mauritius due to crime.

Petty crime occurs in crowded outdoor shopping areas, beaches, and other tourist spots. It also happens near ATMs.

Other serious crimes in Mauritius include:

• Break-ins
• Violent crimes (serious assaults, murder, rape)
• Verbal harassment and other crimes towards women traveling alone
• Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.

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Uganda - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Mon, 08 Dec 2025

Reconsider travel

to Uganda due to crime, terrorism, unrest, and laws targeting persons based on sexual orientation. 

CrimeViolent crime is a real danger in Uganda. This includes armed robbery, home invasion, and sexual assault. Crime can happen anytime. It is more common in larger cities, the Karamoja region, and along Uganda’s western and northern borders. 

Both visitors and residents face these threats. Police struggle to respond to serious crime in most places due to limited resources.

TerrorismThere is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Uganda. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more. 

Terrorist groups have targeted:

• Religious venues
• Schools
• Government buildings
• Police stations
• Transportation hubs
• Areas visited by tourists, including national parks

These attacks have resulted in the deaths of Ugandans as well as foreign visitors. U.S. citizens should remain alert and avoid large public gatherings. 

UnrestProtests can happen with little to no warning. They often develop around political issues and events, like elections. National elections are set for January 15, 2026. Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

When protests, strikes, and demonstrations turn chaotic, security services respond with force. They have used batons, rubber bullets, tear gas, and gunfire to break up the crowds. 

Laws targeting persons based on sexual orientationThe 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act (AHA) criminalizes consensual same-sex relations in Uganda. The law applies to both visitors and residents. 

The AHA increases the danger for persons who may be targeted based on their real or perceived sexual orientation, and those accused of “promoting homosexuality.” Penalties include life imprisonment or the death penalty. 

Those seen as supporting gay and lesbian people have experienced harassment and violence by vigilantes.

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Iran - Level 4: Do Not Travel

Fri, 05 Dec 2025

Do not travel

to Iran due to the risk of terrorism, unrest, kidnapping, arbitrary arrest of U.S. citizens, and wrongful detention. 

Do not travel to Iran for any reason. U.S. citizens in Iran should leave immediately. There is no U.S. Embassy in Iran. Review our information on Travel to High-Risk Areas.

U.S. citizens in Iran face serious dangers including terrorism, unrest, kidnapping, arbitrary arrest, and wrongful detention. Some U.S. nationals have been held for years on false charges, subjected to torture, and even sentenced to death.

No U.S. embassy in Iran The U.S. government does not have diplomatic or consular relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Swiss government, acting through its Embassy in Tehran, serves as the protecting power for United States interests in Iran.

As of October 15, 2025, routine consular services are no longer available for U.S. citizens in Iran. This includes acceptance of applications for full-validity passports and Consular Reports of Birth Abroad (CRBA), and for fee-based notarial services. This change reinforces the travel advice to U.S. citizens: Do Not Travel to Iran.

The Swiss Protecting Power will continue to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens, including acceptance of emergency passport applications, Consular Report of Death Abroad applications, emergency financial assistance, assistance to detained U.S. nationals, and welfare and whereabouts checks for U.S. citizens when security conditions permit.

For routine consular services, U.S. citizens should visit the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate or return to the United States.

Detention, kidnapping, and hostage-taking The U.S. Department of State has determined that U.S. nationals are at serious risk of wrongful detention by the Government of Iran:

• Iranian authorities continue to unjustly detain U.S. nationals without warning or any evidence they committed a crime. This includes dual U.S.-Iranian nationals, students, journalists, business travelers, academics, and people with U.S. military or government experience. Charges include espionage and posing a threat to national security.
• U.S. nationals are at significant risk of questioning, arrest, and detention in Iran.
• Having a U.S. passport or connections to the United States can be reason enough for Iranian authorities to detain someone.
• Iranian law allows authorities to punish individuals for “collaboration with a hostile state.” This includes having any real or perceived connection with a government or organization that Iranian authorities consider as acting against Iranian interests.
• Prior travel to Israel by an Iranian citizen can result in a prison sentence of two to five years. 
• Review our information on U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad and for Victims of Crime.

Arbitrary enforcement of local laws

• Some U.S. citizens have been detained for several months or more. Offenders can face many years in prison.
• The Government of Iran has imposed exit bans on U.S. citizens that prevent travelers from leaving.

Dual citizenship

• Iran will not recognize your U.S. citizenship if you are a dual U.S.-Iranian citizen or have a claim to Iranian citizenship.
• Iran will not permit Swiss consular officers to visit detained U.S. citizens who also hold Iranian citizenship.

Terrorism

• There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Iran. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.
• Review our information on Terrorism and Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Unrest

• Demonstrations are common and unpredictable. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays and during large events.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent. 
• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy Companies providing surrogacy services in Iran are misrepresenting the security situation. They downplay the risks of the unregulated surrogacy tourism industry:

• Private companies that organize these visits and services put U.S. citizens in danger.
• Iranian surrogacy providers have also been known to misrepresent U.S. citizenship law.
• A child born abroad to a surrogate will not automatically acquire U.S. citizenship if they are not genetically or gestationally linked to a U.S. citizen parent or their spouse. This means the child cannot get a U.S. passport to leave Iran.

Aviation Safety Oversight The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby Iran. For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration's Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.

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Madagascar - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Fri, 05 Dec 2025

Exercise increased caution

to Madagascar due to crime, unrest, and health. Some areas have increased risk. 

CrimeViolent crime, such as armed robbery and assault, occurs throughout Madagascar, particularly after dark, in remote areas, and along major national roads in the south and western areas of the country. Petty crime is common, especially in tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings.

UnrestStrikes and other protest activity related to political and economic conditions occur regularly, particularly in periods near elections.

Violent confrontations between the Dahalo (criminal gangs that steal cattle) and security forces have increased in several regions of Madagascar, particularly in areas south and west of the capital.

HealthMedical infrastructure is very limited in populated areas of Madagascar and is extremely limited in rural areas of Madagascar. Serious medical emergencies in Madagascar require medical evacuation. Review the Health section of the Travel Guidance on this page for more information.

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Venezuela - Level 4: Do Not Travel

Wed, 03 Dec 2025

Reissued December 3, 2025 after review with no edits.

Do not travel to or remain in Venezuela due to the high risk of wrongful detention, torture in detention, terrorism, kidnapping, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, crime, civil unrest, and poor health infrastructure. All U.S. citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents in Venezuela are strongly advised to depart immediately.

Country Summary: In March 2019, the U.S. Department of State withdrew all diplomatic personnel from U.S. Embassy Caracas and suspended operations.  All consular services, routine and emergency, remain suspended until further notice. The U.S. government has no ability to provide emergency services or consular assistance to U.S. citizens in Venezuela.  Anyone with U.S. citizenship or any other U.S. residency status in Venezuela should leave the country immediately, including those traveling on Venezuelan or other foreign passports. Do not travel to Venezuela for any reason.   

The Department has determined there is a very high risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals in Venezuela. Security forces have detained U.S. citizens for up to five years without respect for due process.  The U.S. government is not generally informed of the detention of U.S. citizens in Venezuela nor is it permitted to visit U.S. national detainees in Venezuela. The U.S. government has no way to contact U.S. nationals detained in Venezuela, and those detained are not allowed to contact family members or independent legal counsel.  According to former detainees, as well as independent human rights organizations, detainees have been subjected to torture and cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment or punishment, including severe beatings, prolonged restraint in stress positions, and waterboarding.

Violent crimes, such as homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping, and carjacking, are common in Venezuela.  Political rallies and demonstrations occur, often with little notice.  Police and security forces have instituted a brutal crackdown on pro-democracy or anti-regime demonstrations, including the use of tear gas, pepper spray, and rubber bullets against participants, which occasionally devolve into looting and vandalism.

Colombian terrorist groups operate in Venezuela’s border areas with Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana.

Shortages of gasoline, electricity, water, medicine, and medical supplies continue throughout much of Venezuela. 

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Venezuela.

If you decide to travel to Venezuela:

• Prepare a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
• Develop a communication plan with family and/or an employer or host organization.  A plan should include a “proof of life” protocol with loved ones so that if you are taken hostage, detained, and/or tortured, your loved ones will know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to confirm you are still alive.  This will help expose scam artists who attempt to falsely extort your family members by claiming the ability to have you released.
• Consider hiring a professional security organization.
• Any contingency plans for travel to or from Venezuela should not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• The U.S. government cannot assist U.S. citizens in Venezuela in replacing lost or expired travel documents or obtaining Venezuelan entry or exit stamps.
• The U.S. government will not be able to assist should the need for a medical emergency or evacuation arise.  U.S. citizens in Venezuela should consider purchasing medical evacuation insurance.
• There is no safe way to travel to Venezuela.  Avoid travel to Venezuela via any means, including via land border crossings where even crossing over into Venezuela by a few feet can result in detention.  Nighttime travel between cities or between the Maiquetia Simón Bolívar International Airport and Caracas is especially risky.  Entering or attempting to enter Venezuela without a valid Venezuelan visa will likely lead to indefinite detention without consular access.  Visas are not available upon entry.  U.S. citizens in Venezuela face a high risk of indefinite detention without consular access.  Visas and residence permits may be canceled at any time without warning, and U.S. citizens holding a valid visa may be arbitrarily detained at any time.
• Department of Transportation Order 2019-5-5, issued in 2019, prohibited all airlines from providing U.S.-Venezuela air services.  The Department of Homeland Security requested this action due to risks to civil aviation security in Venezuelan airspace. For more information regarding airspace safety, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.   
• Travelers face increased risk using unregulated taxis from the Maiquetia Simón Bolívar International Airport and using ATMs in the area.
• Over the counter and prescription medicines are unlikely to be available to U.S. citizens in Venezuela.  Bring enough supplies of over the counter and prescription medicines to last your entire stay in Venezuela. 
• Access to medical care in Venezuela is limited.  Facilities may not have adequate supplies of basic medications. 
• Update vaccinations to include all up-to-date standard vaccinations, plus Yellow Fever, Meningitis, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and a Polio booster.  All visitors should take Malaria prophylaxis. Venezuela is high risk for Malaria. 
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts.
• Review the Country Security Report for Venezuela.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

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Senegal - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Mon, 01 Dec 2025

Exercise normal precaution

in Senegal.

Senegal is generally a safe destination for travelers. 

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Taiwan - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Tue, 25 Nov 2025

There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise normal precautions in Taiwan.

There is a risk of natural disasters in Taiwan, including earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, flooding, and extreme heat. Please review the Destination Information Page for more information.

If you decide to travel to Taiwan:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the American Institute in Taiwan. Enrolling helps us contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the security report for Taiwan from the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC).
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

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South Sudan - Level 4: Do Not Travel

Thu, 13 Nov 2025

Do not travel

to South Sudan due to risk of unrest, crime, kidnapping, landmines, and health threats. 

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in South Sudan.  

• U.S. government personnel working in South Sudan are under a strict curfew. 
• U.S. government personnel must use armored vehicles for nearly all movements.  
• Official travel outside Juba is limited.  
• Because of the serious crime threat in Juba, walking is restricted to a small area near the embassy during the day.  

Unrest Armed conflict is ongoing and includes fighting between various political and ethnic groups. Weapons are readily available to the population. In addition, cattle raids occur throughout the country, often leading to violence. 

Journalists regularly report being harassed in South Sudan and many have been killed while covering the conflict. Reporting in South Sudan without the proper documentation from the South Sudanese Media Authority is illegal. Any journalistic work there is very dangerous. 

Crime Violent crime is common throughout South Sudan, including Juba. This includes carjackings, shootings, ambushes, assaults, robberies, and kidnappings.  

Foreign nationals have been the victims of rape, sexual assault, armed robberies, and other violent crimes.  

Kidnapping Criminal groups have kidnapped and threatened to kill or hurt people in order to force a third party, like a government, to act or abstain from doing something as a condition of release. 

Kidnapping for ransom happens occasionally in South Sudan. Criminal groups most frequently target local citizens. 

Landmines Landmines are sparsely located throughout the country. While most locations are marked, unmarked unexploded ordinance remains a threat and causes multiple casualties each year.  

Health Medical services in South Sudan are extremely limited. Adequate medical treatment, as well as access to routine and emergency procedures, is often unavailable, and even minor health issues could require medical evacuation. All medical services, including medical evacuation, are at your expense. If you purchase additional medical insurance, be sure to keep records of all medical services paid for and provided. 

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Tanzania - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Fri, 31 Oct 2025

The advisory level increased from Level 2 to 3.  The “unrest” risk indicator was added. 

Reconsider travel to Tanzania due to unrest, crime, terrorism, and targeting of gay and lesbian individuals. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Advisory summary

UnrestDemonstrations often take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on holidays or during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable.
• The Tanzanian government increases security presence around protests. This includes stationary checkpoints and roadblocks.
• The Tanzanian government limits or does not authorize large gatherings.

CrimeViolent crime is common. It includes assault, sexual assault, robberies, mugging, and carjacking. Local police have limited resources to respond effectively to serious crime.

TerrorismThere is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Tanzania. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

The risk of terrorist violence is most common in the Mtwara Region.

Targeting of gay and lesbian individualsMembers of the gay and lesbian community have been arrested, targeted, and harassed. People who identify as gay or lesbian may experience a higher likelihood of being targeted by police. People detained under suspicion of same-sex sexual conduct may face invasive physical exams.

If you decide to travel to Tanzania:

• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Keep a low profile.
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa. Keep original documents in a safe location.
• Stay  aware of your surroundings.
• Do not leave your food or drink unattended.
• Stay alert in tourist spots.
• Avoid public displays of affection particularly between same-sex couples.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency. 
• Review the Country Security Report for Tanzania.
• Review our information on Terrorism, Travel to High-Risk Areas, Crime Abroad, and for Victims of Crime.
• Prepare a backup plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

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Greece - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Thu, 23 Oct 2025

Exercise normal precaution

in Greece.

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Bhutan - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Mon, 20 Oct 2025

Reissued after periodic review without changes.

Exercise normal precautions in Bhutan.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Bhutan.

If you decide to travel to Bhutan:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Bhutan.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the International Traveler Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

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Sudan - Level 4: Do Not Travel

Wed, 15 Oct 2025

Do not travel

to Sudan due to risk of unrest, crime, kidnapping, terrorism, landmines, and health threats. 

The U.S. Embassy in Khartoum suspended its operations in April 2023 due to the outbreak of armed conflict in Sudan. The U.S. government cannot provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Sudan due to the current security situation.

To report an emergency regarding a U.S. citizen in Sudan, contact U.S. Embassy Cairo at +20-2-2797-3300. Or contact the Department of State at +1-888-407-4747 from the United States and Canada or +1-202-501-4444 from elsewhere in the world.

Unrest - Armed Conflict Armed conflict continues in Sudan. This includes heavy fighting among the Sudanese Armed Forces, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, and various armed militias. The situation is violent, volatile, and extremely unpredictable, particularly in the Kordofan and Darfur regions, as well as in the capital region, including Khartoum and Omdurman.

Khartoum International Airport is currently closed to commercial traffic, while commercial service to the Port Sudan International Airport has been limited at times due to drone strikes. Electrical and communication disruptions can occur at any time. This includes internet and cell phone service interruptions.

Crime Crime, including kidnapping, assault, armed robbery, home invasion, looting, and carjacking, is a common threat throughout the country. Checkpoints might occur at any time, some of which may be legitimate security checkpoints, while others may be part of criminal activity (such as robbery or looting) or may present a risk to particular populations.

Terrorism Members of known terrorist groups and individuals sympathetic to these groups can attack with little or no warning. They may target foreign and local government facilities as well as areas frequented by travelers.

Landmines Landmines are a threat, as much of Sudan is an active war zone. There are widespread reports of unexploded ordnance posing a threat in Khartoum and elsewhere in the country, even after fighting has ended in those areas.

Health Medical services in Sudan are extremely limited. Adequate medical treatment for routine and emergency procedures is often not available. Even minor health issues could require medical evacuation at the traveler’s expense. Make sure you have medical or travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. Review our information on Travel Insurance. Check with your doctor about required vaccines and shots for high-risk exposure before you go to Sudan. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Sudan.

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Romania - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Tue, 14 Oct 2025

Exercise normal precaution

in Romania. 

• Exercise normal precautions in Romania.
• Romania has moderate seismic activity and a history of strong earthquakes. Bucharest faces the highest risk.

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Sri Lanka - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Tue, 14 Oct 2025

Exercise increased caution

in Sri Lanka due to civil unrest, terrorism, and landmines. Read the entire Travel Advisory. 

Demonstrations 

Protests over the economic and political situation in Sri Lanka can happen at any time.   

• Police have used water cannons and tear gas to disperse protesters. 
• Avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones.  
• Protests could turn violent with little or no warning.   

Terrorism

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Sri Lanka. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more. 

Terrorist attacks have occurred in Sri Lanka, with little or no warning.  

They may target:  

• Tourist locations 
• Transportation hubs 
• Markets and shopping malls 
• Government buildings 
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants 
• Places of worship 
• Parks 
• Major sporting and cultural events 
• Schools and hospitals 
• Airports  
• Other public areas 

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in remote areas.  

Land mines 

Approximately 23 square kilometers of Sri Lanka have land mines left from its civil war. Most land mines have been cleared, but some areas in northern and eastern Sri Lanka are still dangerous. The highest concentration is in the northern districts of the Northern Province. This territory has dense forests and rough terrain. Warning signs with the international land mine symbol mark the areas of greatest risk. The symbol shows a skull and crossbones in a red, upside-down triangle. White markers indicate cleared land. 

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Ecuador - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Tue, 14 Oct 2025

Exercise increased caution

in Ecuador due to risk of crime, terrorism, unrest, and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. 

Crime and kidnapping

Crime is a widespread problem in Ecuador. Violent crime typically associated with narcotrafficking is common. It includes murder, assault, kidnapping, and armed robbery.  Areas with transnational criminal organizations see much higher rates of violent crime. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping and extortion.

Terrorism

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Ecuador. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more. 

Demonstrations

• Demonstrations happen across the country.
• They are usually driven by political or economic reasons.
• Demonstrators often block local roads and major highways without warning, disrupting access to important infrastructure.  

Local and U.S. Government Assistance

• Most of Ecuador’s land is empty and remote, especially outside big towns and cities.
• Local and U.S. government help may be very limited in remote areas. This may cause delays for U.S. citizens in remote areas.

Do Not Travel to these areas due to terrorism and crime:

• Guayaquil, south of Portete de Tarqui Avenue.
• The cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas in the province of El Oro.
• The cities of Quevedo, Quinsaloma, and Pueblo Viejo in the province of Los Rios.
• The canton of Duran, in the province of Guayas.
• Esmeraldas City and all areas north of Esmeraldas City in Esmeraldas province.
• The area north of Esmeraldas City to the Colombian border and east to Carchi province.

Reconsider Travel to these areas due to terrorism and crime:

• Guayaquil north of Portete de Tarqui Avenue.
• El Oro province outside the cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas.
• Los Rios province outside the cities of Quevedo, Quinsaloma, and Pueblo Viejo.
• All areas south of Esmeraldas city in Esmeraldas province.
• The provinces of Sucumbios, Manabi, Santa Elena, and Santo Domingo.

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Bulgaria - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Thu, 09 Oct 2025

Exercise normal precaution

in Bulgaria

Bulgaria is generally a safe destination for travelers.

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Croatia - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Thu, 09 Oct 2025

Exercise normal precaution

in Croatia. Some areas have increased risk. 

Exercise normal precautions in Croatia. Some areas have increased risk.

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São Tomé and Príncipe - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Wed, 08 Oct 2025

Exercise increased caution

in São Tomé and Príncipe due to health risks.

Medical services in São Tomé and Príncipe are limited. There are no adequate trauma or ambulance services. Even minor health issues may require medical evacuation at the traveler’s expense. Review our information on Travel Insurance. 

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Equatorial Guinea - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Tue, 07 Oct 2025

Exercise increased caution

in Equatorial Guinea due to risk of crime, health, and arbitrary enforcement of laws.

CrimePetty crime is common throughout the country. Local police may lack the resources to respond effectively to reports of crime, even serious crime.

HealthMedical services in Equatorial Guinea are limited. There are no adequate trauma or ambulance services. Even minor health issues may require medical evacuation at the traveler’s expense. Be sure to bring enough prescription medications to last the entire duration of your trip. Make sure you have medical or travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. Review our information on Travel Insurance.

OtherTravelers face the risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws that may result in harassment and detention.

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Maldives - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Tue, 07 Oct 2025

Exercise increased caution

in Maldives due to terrorism.

Terrorist groups may attack with little or no warning. They may target:

• There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in the Maldives. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.
• Tourist locations
• Transportation hubs
• Markets and shopping malls
• Local government facilities

Attacks may occur on remote islands. This can lengthen the response time of authorities. 

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Antarctica - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Tue, 23 Sep 2025

Exercise increased caution

in Antarctica due to environmental hazards posed by extreme and unpredictable weather and limited emergency services.

There are no U.S. government consular services available to U.S. citizens in the Antarctic Region. The closest U.S embassies and consulates are in Argentina, Australia, Chile, New Zealand, and South Africa. U.S. government resources in the Antarctic Region are committed to the U.S. Antarctic Program, per longstanding U.S. policy. 

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Sierra Leone - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Mon, 15 Sep 2025

Exercise increased caution

in Sierra Leone due to crime, unrest, and inadequate health infrastructure. 

Crime

• Violent crimes, such as robbery and assault, occur frequently in Sierra Leone, especially in Freetown. Police struggle to respond to serious crime in most places due to limited resources.
• Do not travel outside the Freetown peninsula after nightfall. There are increased safety hazards and security concerns at night. U.S. government employees in Sierra Leone are prohibited from travel outside the capital after dark. The U.S. Embassy in Freetown cannot offer emergency services outside Freetown at night.
• Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.

Unrest

• Demonstrations and protests occur in Sierra Leone and occasionally result in violence. Protests can happen with little to no warning. They often develop around political issues, large events, or holidays.

Health

• Sierra Leone’s health infrastructure is inadequate. Health facilities, services, hygiene, and quality control do not meet U.S. standards of care. Pharmacies are not well regulated. Locally available medications may be unsafe.
• Make sure you have medical or travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. Be sure to bring enough prescription medications to last the entire duration of your trip. Review our information on Travel Insurance.

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Nepal - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Thu, 11 Sep 2025

Reconsider travel to Nepal due to civil unrest.

Advisory summary

Large protests and significant demonstrations in Nepal on September 8-9, 2025, turned violent.

• These events caused deaths and injuries. Local authorities have declared curfews in major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara.
• Additional protests and curfews could happen with little warning.
• Follow local authorities’ instructions. Stay away from areas with protests, unrest, or large gatherings.

Emergency services

Emergency services in Nepal have limited ability to respond to personal emergencies. Their response may be delayed. Some hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara were set on fire during the unrest.

• Check with your hotel, airline, or tour operator for the latest updates before traveling.
• Make sure to confirm your travel plans with your airline before departing for the airport.

U.S. citizens with emergencies:

• Dial 888-407-4747 from the United States.
• Dial 202-501-4444 from Nepal or abroad.
• Email: [email protected]

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Nepal.  

• If you decide to travel to Nepal: Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Check local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Prepare to evacuate hotels at a moment’s notice.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities. 
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds. 
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Nepal. 
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
• Review our information on Travel to High-Risk Areas.

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Armenia - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Fri, 05 Sep 2025

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise increased caution in Armenia due to areas of potential armed conflict. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel To These Areas for Any Reason:

• The border region with Azerbaijan.

U.S. Embassy employees and their families cannot travel to these areas for non-essential reasons:

• Gegharkunik region east of Vardenis
• Syunik region east of Goris
• Syunik region south of Kapan

Travel through Yeraskh village in Ararat region is allowed, stopping is not.

Country Summary:

U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution in Armenia. Further military activity could occur in the region.  

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Armenia.

If you decide to travel to Armenia:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate.  Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.     
• Review the Country Security Report for Armenia.
• Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

Border with Azerbaijan – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Past military action has occurred near the Armenia-Azerbaijan border and there is potential for armed conflict in the area. U.S. citizens should avoid the area. Exercise caution on roads near Armenia’s border with Azerbaijan. Some parts of the road may cross international borders without warning. Checkpoints may control roads or authorities may close them to travelers without notice.  The U.S. embassy does not allow embassy employees and their families to travel for non-essential reasons to the border region, as well as other areas of Armenia listed in this Travel Advisory.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

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Mexico Travel Advisory - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Tue, 12 Aug 2025

Exercise increased caution

in Mexico due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.

• Many violent crimes take place in Mexico. They include homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery. There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mexico. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.  
• The U.S. government has limited ability to help in many parts of Mexico. U.S. government employees are not allowed to travel to certain high-risk areas. 
• Due to security risks, U.S. citizens should follow the same restrictions as U.S. government employees while traveling.  
• Emergency services are limited or unavailable in remote or rural areas.
• If you encounter a road checkpoint, you should comply.  Fleeing or ignoring instructions can lead to you being hurt or killed. 
• Check the map of restricted areas.

U.S. government employee travel restrictions (U.S. citizens are advised to follow): 

• May not travel between cities after dark. 
• Must rely on dispatched vehicles from regulated taxi stands or app-based services like Uber or Cabify and may not wave down taxis on the street.  
• Should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas. 
• May not drive between Mexican border cities, the U.S.-Mexico border and the interior of Mexico. There are some limited exceptions.

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Democratic Republic of the Congo - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Tue, 12 Aug 2025

Updated due to changes to the Travel Advisory level, U.S. government restrictions on personnel, and information on armed conflict in North and South Kivu.

Reconsider travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) due to crime, and civil unrest. Some areas have increased risk due to armed conflict. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel To:

• North and South Kivu provinces due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, armed conflict, and kidnapping.
• Ituri province due to crime, civil unrest, terrorism, armed conflict, and kidnapping.
• Tanganyika, Haut Lomami, and the 3 Kasai provinces (Kasai, Kasai-Oriental, Kasai-Central) due to crime, civil unrest, armed conflict, and kidnapping.
• Mai-Ndombe province due to ethnic/communal violence.

Country Summary: Violent crime is common. This includes armed robbery, armed home invasion, and assault. Local police lack the resources to respond to serious crime in a timely and adequate manner. Assailants may pose as police or security agents. DRC law enforcement does not always inform the U.S. embassy when they arrest a U.S. citizen. They may also delay access to detained or charged U.S. citizens. DRC law enforcement has used violence and threats during interrogations.

Demonstrations are common in many cities, and some have turned violent. Police may respond with force, resulting in deaths and arrests. Looting, assault, traffic obstruction, property damage, and other violent actions occur when police don't respond in a timely manner, or at all.

The U.S. government cannot provide emergency consular services to U.S. citizens outside of Kinshasa due to poor infrastructure and security risks. Due to the risks in the country, minor dependents cannot accompany U.S. government employees who work in the DRC.

Review the country information page for additional information on travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. 

If you decide to travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo:

• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Use caution when walking or driving.
• Always have a photocopy of your U.S. passport and DRC visa. Keep originals in a secure location. Carry your U.S. passport and DRC visa when crossing provincial borders or flying domestically.
• If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify U.S. Embassy Kinshasa immediately.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts from the U.S Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for the DRC.
• Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. Ensure that documents and medications are easy to locate in case you need to leave on short notice.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
• Develop a communication plan with family, your employer or host organization. Specify how you'll confirm you're safe (text, calls, etc.), how often, and who you'll contact first to share the information.

North and South Kivu Provinces – Level 4: Do Not TravelActive fighting is ongoing between armed groups and government military forces in the Kivu provinces; the M23 armed group is occupying major cities of Goma and Bukavu. Missiles and armed drones have been used in the conflict. The fighting has forced thousands of people from their homes which can cause instability in the province.

Violent crime is common throughout the Kivu provinces. This includes murder, rape, kidnapping, and pillaging. Road travelers are common targets for ambush, armed robbery, and kidnapping.

Terrorist and armed groups operate in the Kivu provinces. They have attacked military and civilian targets. This includes aid workers, businesspeople, and other NGO staff in the area.

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in North and South Kivu provinces. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Demonstrations and large gatherings can occur throughout the region, especially in urban areas. Mobs can form rapidly and turn violent, posing a threat to bystanders.

Due to the security risks, U.S. government employees working in the DRC must obtain special authorization to travel to North and South Kivu Provinces. Due to the risks, the U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Kivu provinces.

Do not travel to these areas for any reason.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Ituri Province – Level 4: Do Not TravelViolent crime continues throughout Ituri province. This includes murder, rape, kidnapping, and pillaging. Road travelers are common targets for ambush, armed robbery, and kidnapping.

Terrorist and armed groups operate in Ituri province. They have targeted both military and civilian sites. This includes humanitarian aid workers and other NGO staff in the area.

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Ituri province. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Demonstrations and large gatherings can occur throughout these regions, especially in urban areas. Mobs can form rapidly and turn violent, posing a threat to bystanders.

Armed groups, individuals, and military forces routinely clash with each other. Civilians are frequently targeted in attacks.

Due to the security risks, U.S. government employees working in the DRC must obtain special authorization to travel to Ituri province. Due to the risks, the U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Ituri province.

Do not travel to these areas for any reason.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Tanganyika, Haut Lomami, and the 3 Kasai Provinces – Level 4: Do Not TravelViolent crime like murder, rape, kidnapping, and robbery are common in these areas:

• Tanganyika
• Haut Lomami
• Kasai provinces: Kasai Oriental, Kasai Central, and Kasai.

Road travelers are common targets for ambush, armed robbery, and kidnapping.

Demonstrations and large gatherings can occur throughout these regions, especially in urban areas. Mobs can form rapidly and turn violent, posing a threat to bystanders.

Armed groups, individuals, and military forces routinely clash with each other. Civilians are frequently targeted in attacks.

Due to the security risks, U.S. government employees working in the DRC must obtain special authorization to travel to eastern DRC Region and the 3 Kasai provinces. Due to the risks, the U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in eastern DRC Region and the 3 Kasai provinces.

Do not travel to these areas for any reason.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Mai-Ndombe Province – Level 4: Do Not TravelViolence in Mai-Ndombe is rising. There are also more police and military in the area, especially along the Route Nationale 17. Government security officials may limit travel for U.S. citizens when violence rises. Activity of armed groups could block passenger and freight traffic on regional routes in the province. Protests can occur without warning.

Due to the security risks, U.S. government employees working in the DRC must obtain special authorization to travel to Mai-Ndombe province. Due to the risks, the U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Mai-Ndombe province.

Do not travel to these areas for any reason.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas

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Cambodia - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Fri, 25 Jul 2025

The advisory level was increased to 2. The “unrest” risk indicator was added. An area of increased risk was added. The advisory summary was updated. 

Exercise increased caution in Cambodia due to crime and landmines. Some areas have increased risks. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to:

• Areas along Cambodian and Thai border due to armed conflict.

Advisory summary:

Phnom PenhStreet crime, particularly phone and bag snatchings, occurs frequently in areas where foreigners gather; resistance can result in injury. Violent crimes, such as sexual assault and homicide do occur and sometimes are committed against foreigners.

Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Pursat, Siem Reap, Pailin, and Kampong Thom provincesLandmines and unexploded ordnance are found in remote areas throughout Cambodia, and especially in Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Pursat, Siem Reap, Pailin, and Kampong Thom provinces.

Do not touch unknown metal objects; instead notify the Cambodia Mine Action Center at 012-800-473/023-995-437. Use a local guide when walking in forested areas or dry rice paddies in these areas.

Level 4: Do Not TravelCambodia – Thailand Border

Do not travel to areas within 50km of the Cambodia – Thailand border due to ongoing fighting between Cambodian and Thai military forces.

There are reports of fighting, including rocket and artillery fire, between Cambodian and Thai forces along the border.  Armed conflict has led to reports of civilian casualties. There is a collateral risk of violence, and U.S. citizens are advised to avoid all but essential travel to within 50km of these border areas until further notice.  The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these provinces due to the ongoing risk of armed conflict.

Read the destination information page for additional information on travel to Cambodia.

If you decide to travel to Cambodia:

• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate.  Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.  
• Review the Country Security Report for Cambodia.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

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Thailand - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Fri, 25 Jul 2025

The advisory level was increased to Level 2. An area of increased risk was added. The advisory summary was updated.

Exercise increased caution in Thailand due to risk of unrest. Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to:

• Areas along the Cambodian and Thai border due to armed conflict.
  

Advisory summary: 
Exercise increased caution due to civil unrest associated with ongoing insurgent activities in the Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat provinces.
Periodic violence between Thai security services and armed insurgents has been known to occur in Thailand’s three southernmost provinces of Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat. Seventeen districts in these provinces remain under a declared state of emergency due to ongoing violent conflict. There is a collateral risk of violence for U.S. citizens in Thailand’s southernmost provinces due to low intensity conflict.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these provinces as U.S government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to these provinces.

Level 4 - Do Not TravelThailand - Cambodia Border:

Do not travel to areas within 50km of the Thai-Cambodian border due to ongoing fighting between Thai and Cambodian military forces.
There are reports of fighting, including rocket and artillery fire, between Cambodian and Thai forces along the border.  Armed conflict has led to civilian casualties, and the Thai government has ordered the evacuation of certain areas. There is a collateral risk of violence, and U.S. citizens are advised to avoid all but essential travel to within 50km of these border areas until further notice.  The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these provinces due to the ongoing risk of armed conflict.

Read the destination information page for additional information on travel to Thailand.

If you decide to travel to Thailand:

• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate.  Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.      
• Review the Country Security Report for Thailand.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage..

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Rwanda - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Wed, 16 Jul 2025

Updated to remove the Level 4: Do Not Travel area near the border with Burundi and to reflect changes to the Level 4: Do Not Travel areas near the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Exercise increased caution in Rwanda due to the potential for armed violence. Some areas have an increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to:

• Rusizi District within 10 kilometers of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) border due to armed violence.
• Rubavu District within 10 kilometers of the DRC border due to armed violence.

Country Summary: Armed groups, individuals, and military forces routinely clash in nearby countries. The ongoing violence in these areas raises the risk of spilling over into Rwanda.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Rwanda.

If you decide to travel to Rwanda:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and Alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Rwanda.
• Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

Rusizi District within 10 kilometers of the DRC border – Level 4: Do Not Travel

• Lake Kivu borders the DRC. Borders may not be clearly marked. A permit from the Rwanda Development Board is required for entry to Nyungwe Forest National Park.
• Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Rwanda must obtain special authorization to travel to Rusizi District.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. 

Rubavu District within 10 kilometers of the DRC border – Level 4: Do Not Travel

• Armed groups operate in the DRC’s North and South Kivu provinces and Virunga Park. This is next to Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. The area has faced increasing armed conflict, which might spread across a poorly marked border.
• To enter the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, you need a permit from the Rwanda Development Board.
• Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Rwanda must obtain special authorization to travel to Rubavu District.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

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Libya - Level 4: Do Not Travel

Wed, 16 Jul 2025

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Do not travel to Libya for any reason due to crime, terrorism, unexploded landmines, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict. Read entire Travel Advisory.

Country Summary: Terrorism:  There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Libya. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more. Terrorist attacks could occur with little or no warning, targeting public spaces like tourist locations, hotels, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and government facilities.

Kidnapping is widespread, and victims have included U.S. citizens.

Kidnappers may take advantage of unplanned opportunities. Criminal or armed individuals or groups have threatened to and/or have seized or detained and threatened to kill, injure, or continue to detain individuals in order to compel a third party (including a governmental organization) to do or abstain from doing something as a condition of release.

Unexploded landmines, cluster munitions, and unexploded ammunition are a hazard throughout Libya. Heed land mine warning signs. Do not venture off the road into areas marked with red and white plastic tape.  Avoid roadside ditches, shoulders, and unmarked trails. Never touch anything resembling unexploded munitions. Landmines do exist in populated areas due to numerous ground offensives in the last decade.

Outbreaks of violence between competing armed groups can occur with little warning and have the potential to impact U.S. citizens. The capital, Tripoli, and other cities, such as Surman, Al-Jufra, Misrata, Ajdabiya, Benghazi, and Zuwara, have witnessed fighting among armed groups.  Hotels and airports frequented by U.S. citizens have been the targets of these attacks. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.

Armed groups sometimes detain travelers for arbitrary reasons, do not grant detainees access to lawyers or legal processes, and do not allow detainees to inform others of their status. U.S. citizens should carry proof of citizenship and valid immigration status at all times, but having these documents does not guarantee fair treatment.

While there are operational international airports in Libya with regular domestic and international flights, flights are often delayed, rerouted, and cancelled without warning. The U.S. government prohibits U.S. commercial aviation operations within Libyan airspace.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Libya, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.

The Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard has determined that effective anti-terrorism measures are not in place in Libyan ports and has imposed conditions of entry on vessels that arrive in U.S. ports having visited ports in Libya. Mariners and passengers traveling through the ports of Libya should exercise caution.

U.S. citizens in Libya in need of routine consular services should contact the U.S. Embassy in Tunis, Tunisia for assistance. To contact the U.S. Embassy in Tunis, click here.

U.S. citizens who are in Libya are urged to depart as soon as possible via commercial means if possible.

The Department of State will continue to provide information via the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), Embassy Libya's web page, Travel.State.Gov, Facebook, and X.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Libya.

If you decide to travel to Libya:

• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Carry proof of citizenship and valid immigration status at all times.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Make contingency plans to leave.
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and a power of attorney.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care or custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etcetera.
• Establish your own personal security plan in coordination with your family, and employer or host organization, so that they can monitor your safety and location. This plan should specify whom you would contact first, and how that person should share information.
• Appoint one family member to serve as the point of contact with kidnappers/hostage-takers, media, U.S. and host country government agencies, and members of Congress if you are kidnapped, taken hostage, or detained.
• Consider consulting with a professional security organization.
• Do not touch unknown metal objects and avoid traveling off well-used roads, tracks, and paths due to risk of unexploded ordnance.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Libya.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

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Egypt - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Tue, 15 Jul 2025

Exercise increased caution

in Egypt due to terrorism, crime, and health. Some areas have increased risk. 

• The U.S. Embassy has limited ability to help dual national U.S.-Egyptian citizens who are arrested or detained.
• Egyptian law considers dual citizens to be solely Egyptian citizens.

Terrorism

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Northern and Middle Sinai Peninsula.  Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning: 

Egyptian authorities generally offer effective security protection.  However, extremists continue to express interest in planning and carrying out attacks.  Security is generally present at potential targets, which include:  

• Religious sites (mosques, churches, monasteries, and buses traveling there) 
• Local government buildings, and diplomatic facilities (embassies) 
• Tourist sites 
• Transportation centers 
• Shopping malls 
• Restaurants and foreign businesses  
• Resorts 
• Roadside checkpoints 
• Urban areas in Cairo 

Crime

Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing.  Harassment of women, including foreigners, is a problem in Egypt.  It can include vulgar comments, gestures, indecent exposure, and unwanted physical contact.  Tourists should beware of overcharging and scams in tourist areas.  Review the Country Security Report for Egypt for further details.  

Health  

Emergency and intensive care facilities are limited in Egypt and may be unavailable in remote areas.  Ambulances are rare, unreliable in most areas, and don’t have advanced medical equipment. 

Global polio

Some international destinations, including Egypt, have circulating poliovirus.  Before traveling to Egypt, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines.  Check the CDC website for current vaccination recommendations.

Demonstrations

Protests or demonstrations may occur suddenly:   

• Individuals have been arrested for being in the vicinity of protests in Egypt, even when not actively participating.   
• U.S. citizens have been arrested for participating in protests. 
• You may be detained for posting anything on social media seen as critical of Egypt or its allies, or for disrespecting its cultural sites. 
• Local law prohibits protesting or demonstrating without a permit. 

Do not travel to:

• The Northern and Middle Sinai Peninsula due to terrorism. 
• The Western Desert due to risk to safety and security unless traveling with a professionally licensed tour company.
• Egyptian border areas due to military zones.

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Nigeria - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Tue, 15 Jul 2025

Updated to reflect inconsistent availability of health care services.

Reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed gangs, and inconsistent availability of health care services. Some places in Nigeria have an increased risk. Overall, all locations carry significant security risks. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to:

• Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and northern Adamawa states due to terrorism and kidnapping
• Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara states due to kidnapping
• Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers states (with the exception of Port Harcourt) due to crime, kidnapping, and armed gangs.

Country Summary: 
Violent crime is common in the country. This includes armed robbery, assault, carjacking, kidnapping, hostage-taking, roadside banditry, and rape. Kidnappings for ransom happen often. They primarily target dual national citizens visiting Nigeria and U.S. citizens perceived as wealthy. Kidnapping gangs have also stopped victims on interstate roads.

Terrorism

There is risk of terrorist violence in Nigeria. This includes terrorist attacks and other activities.

Terrorists continue plotting and carrying out attacks in Nigeria. Terrorists collaborate with local gangs to expand their reach. They may attack with little or no warning, including:

• Shopping centers and malls
• Markets
• Hotels
• Places of worship
• Restaurants and bars
• Schools
• Government buildings
• Transportation hubs
• Public places where crowds gather

Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Gangs and crime

Civil unrest and armed gangs are active in parts of Southern Nigeria. This is especially true in the Niger Delta and Southeast regions. Armed crime and gangs are common in the area. Crimes include kidnapping and assaults on Nigerian security services.

Violence can flare up between communities of farmers and herders in rural areas.

Unreliable health care

U.S. citizens should not expect the same level of health care to be available in Nigeria as they do in the United States:

• Nigerian medical facilities are generally not equipped to U.S. or European standards.
• Many medicines are not available. This includes common medications for diabetes or asthma.
• Bring enough over-the-counter and prescription medicines to last your entire stay in Nigeria.
• Update vaccinations to include all standard vaccinations, plus yellow fever, meningitis, typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and a polio booster.
• All visitors should take Malaria prophylaxis. Nigeria is high risk for Malaria.
• Counterfeit pharmaceuticals are a common problem.
• Hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
• Most hospitals and doctors do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Emergency services like those in the United States or Europe do not exist.
• Blood supply is often unreliable.
• Ambulance services are unreliable, have poor equipment, and often do not have trained paramedics.
• We strongly recommend getting traveler’s insurance, including medical evacuation insurance, before traveling.
• The Department of State does not pay medical bills for U.S. citizens overseas.
• U.S. Medicare/Medicaid do not work overseas.

Due to security risks, U.S. government employees cannot provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Nigeria.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Nigeria.

 If you decide to travel to Nigeria:

• Carry proper identification, including a U.S. passport with a current Nigerian visa, if needed.
• Use caution when walking or driving.
• Keep a low profile.
• Review travel routes and times. Vary your predictability.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Check local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by foreign tourists.
• Avoid demonstrations and large political gatherings.
• Review your personal security plans.
• Have evacuation plans that do not depend on U.S. government help.
• Establish a “proof of life” protocol with your loved ones, so that if you are taken hostage, your loved ones know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to be sure that you are alive. This helps to rule out scams.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts. It makes it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Get comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
• Review the Country Security Report for Nigeria.
• Prepare a backup plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and Northern Adamawa states – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to these areas for any reason.

The security situation in these states is unstable and uncertain. This is because of widespread terrorist activity, violence between communities, and kidnapping. Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning.

Terrorist groups in the Northeast often target:

• Humanitarian camps
• Security forces
• Churches and mosques
• Schools
• Government buildings
• Entertainment venues
• Road travelers

Violence in Northeast Nigeria has forced about two million Nigerians to leave their homes.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto and Zamfara states – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to these areas for any reason.

The security situation in these states is unstable and uncertain due to civil unrest. Widespread violence between communities and armed crime, including kidnapping and roadside banditry. Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers states (with the exception of Port Harcourt) – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to these areas for any reason.

Crime is widespread in Southern Nigeria. There is a high risk of kidnapping, violent protests, and armed gangs.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

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Haiti - Level 4: Do Not Travel

Tue, 15 Jul 2025

Reissued after addition of terrorism indicator.

Do not travel to Haiti due to kidnapping, crime, terrorist activity, civil unrest, and limited health care. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Country Summary: In July 2023, the Department of State ordered nonemergency U.S. government employees and their family members to leave the country due to security risks.

Haiti has been under a State of Emergency since March 2024. Crimes involving firearms are common in Haiti. They include robbery, carjackings, sexual assault, and kidnappings for ransom. Do not travel to Haiti for any reason.

Kidnapping

Kidnapping is widespread. U.S. citizens have been victims and have been hurt or killed. Kidnappers may:

• Plan with precision or target victims during unexpected times.
• Target and attack convoys.
• Demand ransoms. U.S. victims’ families have paid tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars to rescue their family members. 

Demonstrations

Protests, demonstrations, and roadblocks are common and unpredictable. They often damage or destroy infrastructure and can become violent. Mob killings and public assaults are on the rise. People are targeting those they think have committed crimes.

Toussaint Louverture International Airport

Exchanges of gunfire with criminal gangs, organized crime, and terrorists have occurred in the neighborhood just outside the Port-au-Prince International Airport (PAP). Travelers are sometimes followed and violently attacked and robbed shortly after leaving the airport, or while entering or leaving hotels in Port-au-Prince. U.S. commercial flights do not currently operate to and from Port-au-Prince. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) prohibiting U.S. air carrier flights to Port-au-Prince due to the ongoing instability. Please check FAA's website for more information.

Crime and Terrorism

There is widespread violent crime and organized crime in the country, and local law enforcement has limited ability to respond to serious crimes. Violent crime is rampant in Haiti, especially in Port-au-Prince, where the expansion of gang, organized crime, and terrorist activity has led to widespread violence, kidnappings, and sexual assault. The escalation of clashes between armed groups has led to a rise in sporadic gunfire incidents. There is a substantial risk of being struck by stray bullets, even for individuals not directly involved in the violence.

There is risk of terrorist violence, including attacks and other violent gang activity in Haiti. There are gangs that are designated as terrorist organizations present in Haiti.

Transportation and Travel

Do not cross the border by land between Haiti and the Dominican Republic. There is a risk of kidnapping and violence. These dangers are present on roads from major Haitian cities to the border. The U.S. Embassy cannot help you enter the Dominican Republic by air, land, or sea. U.S. citizens who cross into the Dominican Republic at an unofficial crossing may face high immigration fines when they try to leave.

The U.S. Coast Guard has concerns about security in the ports of Haiti. Until those are addressed, the Coast Guard advises mariners and passengers traveling through the ports of Haiti to exercise caution.

Limited Emergency Response

The U.S. government is very limited in its ability to help U.S. citizens in Haiti. Local police and first responders often do not have enough resources. This limits their ability to respond to emergencies or serious crimes. Shortages of gasoline, electricity, medicine, and medical supplies are common throughout the country. Public and private clinics, as well as hospitals, have untrained staff and lack basic resources. Medical providers almost always require upfront payment in cash.

U.S. government employees must follow a nightly curfew. Families of Embassy personnel are not allowed to accompany them on their assignment. Embassy personnel cannot travel by foot in Port-au-Prince. U.S. government employees working in Haiti must obtain special permission to travel outside the embassy compound due to security risks. They are also prohibited from:

• Using any kind of public transportation or taxis. 
• Visiting banks and using ATMs. 
• Driving at night. 
• Traveling anywhere after dark. 

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Haiti.

If you decide to travel to Haiti: 

• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Check local media for breaking events. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Arrange airport transfers and hotels in advance, or have your host meet you upon arrival. 
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Bring enough supply of over the counter and prescription medicines. 
• If you are being followed as you leave the airport, drive to the nearest police station immediately. 
• Develop a communication plan with family or your employer or host organization (if you are traveling on business). This is so they can monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. Specify how you will confirm you are safe (text, calls, etc.), how often, and who you will contact first to share the information.
• Choose one family member to serve as the point of contact. They will communicate with kidnappers or hostage-takers, media, U.S. and host country government agencies, and members of Congress if you are kidnapped or taken hostage.
• Establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones. This is so that if you are taken hostage, your loved ones can know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to be sure that you are alive (and to rule out a hoax).
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney, put your financial affairs in order.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
• Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them.
• Travel by vehicle to reduce walking in public. 
• Travel in groups or at least do not travel alone. 
• Always keep vehicle doors locked, and windows closed when driving. Roadblocks may be operated by gangs, members of organized crime, or terrorists seeking money and may turn violent. 
• Be cautious and alert. This is especially important when driving through markets and other crowded areas. 
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Review the Country Security Report on Haiti.
• Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC’s page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X. 
• Review the Country Security Report on Haiti. 
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

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Mauritania - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Tue, 15 Jul 2025

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Reconsider travel to Mauritania due to terrorism and crime. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel To:

• Areas marked off-limits by the Mauritanian military. These areas are unsafe due to security risks and terrorist activities.
• All areas north of the Tropic of Cancer
• All areas within 100 KM of the Mali and Algeria Border

Country Summary: Violent crimes occur frequently outside the Tevragh Zeina neighborhoods in Nouakchott. They include mugging, armed robbery, and assault. Local police lack the resources to respond quickly and effectively to serious crimes. Transportation options and communication infrastructure are limited outside Nouakchott. little or no warning, targeting places frequented by Westerners.

Terrorism

Terrorist violence is a risk in Mauritania. This includes potential attacks and other activities. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

U.S. Travel Limits and Emergency Services

The U.S. government can only offer limited emergency services to U.S. citizens in Mauritania. This is due to travel rules for U.S. government employees, poor infrastructure, and few health facilities, especially outside of Nouakchott.

U.S. government employees can travel outside Nouakchott only during the day. They cannot walk alone outside of specific areas and times. U.S. government employees must get special permission to travel outside Nouakchott. This helps them move smoothly through security checkpoints on major roads.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Mauritania.

If you decide to travel to Mauritania:

• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts. It makes it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Mauritania.
• Prepare a backup plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Areas Designated Off-Limits by the Mauritanian Military – Level 4: Do Not Travel

The government of Mauritania designates certain areas off-limits to foreigners and most Mauritanians. These “No Movement Zones” are very dangerous. They are near Mali, where armed groups are fighting an active insurgency. This violence may spill over the border into Mauritania. The government of Mauritania has little presence in these areas. Police cannot respond to most incidents.

Cell phone coverage and paved roads are nonexistent in these areas. U.S. officials are unable to travel to these places. The boundaries of these areas often change, so stay informed about restricted entry.

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India - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Mon, 16 Jun 2025

Exercise increased caution

in India due to crime and terrorism. Some areas have increased risk.

Violent crime and terrorism occur in India.

• Rape is one of the fastest growing crimes in India.
• Violent crimes, including sexual assault, happen at tourist sites and other locations.
• Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. They target:
  • Tourist locations
  • Transportation hubs
  • Markets and shopping malls
  • Government facilities

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in rural areas.

• These areas stretch from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal.
• Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in India must obtain special authorization to travel to these areas.

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Marshall Islands - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Mon, 16 Jun 2025

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise normal precautions in the Marshall Islands.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Marshall Islands.

If you decide to travel to Marshall Islands:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for the Marshall Islands. 
• Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.    
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel.  Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

Full Story

Mozambique - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Mon, 16 Jun 2025

Updated to reflect change in overall travel advisory level from 3 to 2 due to decrease of election related protests, and addition of Niassa Special Reserve to Do Not Travel section.

Exercise increased caution when traveling to Mozambique due to health issues, crime, civil unrest, and terrorism. Some areas have greater risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel To:

• Cabo Delgado Province, the Niassa Special Reserve inside Niassa Province, and certain districts in the north of Nampula Province due to terrorism.

Country Summary: Unplanned protests remain possible throughout the country and can quickly become violent. Protests may temporarily block major roads, including toll booths and border crossings.

Violent crime, such as mugging, is common.

Mozambique’s health infrastructure is weak, medicine availability is variable and often in short supply. Local medical facilities may lack basic resources and supplies, and may require cash payment up front. There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mozambique. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Terrorist groups in northern Mozambique continue to be active. Attackers may strike public areas and tourist destinations with little or no warning, sometimes taking hostages. Upscale lodges in remote areas which cater to international big-game hunters have been targeted. Security and police forces may be slow to respond.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Mozambique.

If you decide to travel to Mozambique:

• Avoid all but emergency travel between sunset and sunrise.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and Alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Mozambique.
• Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• We highly recommend you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Have travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Keep a low profile.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.

Cabo Delgado Province, the Niassa Special Reserve within Niassa Province, and certain northern districts in Nampula Province – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Terrorists continue to conduct and plot attacks on government forces, villages, and key supply routes in Cabo Delgado Province and the bordering districts of Memba and Erati in Nampula Province. Cabo Delgado’s capitol city of Pemba is vulnerable to attack due to the proximity of violent extremist forces and their increasing sophistication. Upscale hunting lodges in and around the Niassa Special Reserve have been specifically targeted by terrorists with hostages taken.

Although prior terrorist attacks centered around securing resources from government forces, travelers should be aware of their surroundings, especially in large public places.

Be aware of increased government security checkpoints in Cabo Delgado Province.

If you must travel to the affected areas of Cabo Delgado, Niassa, and Nampula Provinces, consider hiring a security firm.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

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Dominican Republic - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Thu, 12 Jun 2025

Exercise increased caution

in Dominican Republic due to crime. 

Violent crime is a concern in the Dominican Republic despite more police presence in areas often visited by tourists. Do not display wealth and be wary of meeting individuals from online in secluded locations.

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Canada - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Wed, 11 Jun 2025

Exercise normal precaution

in Canada.

Canada is generally a safe destination for travelers. 

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Poland - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Thu, 05 Jun 2025

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.                 
Exercise normal precautions in Poland.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Poland.

If you decide to travel to Poland:                                  

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and Alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Poland.
• Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

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Australia - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Fri, 30 May 2025

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise normal precautions in Australia.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Australia.

If you decide to travel to Australia:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Australia.
• Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

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Brazil - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Thu, 29 May 2025

Updated to add risk indicator for kidnapping.

Exercise increased caution in Brazil due to crime and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to these areas due to crime: 

• Anywhere within 160 km/100 miles of Brazil’s land borders with Bolivia, Colombia, Guyana, French Guiana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela. This restriction does not apply to the Foz do Iguacu National Park or Pantanal National Park. 
• Informal housing developments, such as favelas, vilas, comunidades, or conglomerados, at any time.
• Brasilia’s “Satellite Cities” at night. This includes Ceilandia, Santa Maria, Sao Sebastiao, and Paranoa.

Country Summary: Violent crime, including murder, armed robbery, and carjacking, can occur in urban areas, day and night. There was a kidnapping for ransom of U.S. travelers. Gang activity and organized crime are widespread and often tied to the recreational drug trade. Assaults, including with sedatives and drugs placed in drinks, are common, especially in Rio de Janeiro. Criminals target foreigners through dating apps or at bars before drugging and robbing their victims. U.S. government employees are advised not to use municipal buses in Brazil because of a serious risk of robbery and assault, especially at night.

If you decide to travel to Brazil:  

• Stay aware of your surroundings. 
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. 
• Do not accept food or drinks from strangers and always watch your drinks. 
• Use caution when walking or driving at night. 
• Avoid going to bars or nightclubs alone. 
• Avoid walking on beaches after dark. 
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry. 
• Be alert to date drug scams.
• Stay alert when visiting banks or ATMs. 
• Be careful at major transportation centers or on public transport, especially at night. Passengers are at higher risk of robbery or assault when using public buses in Brazil. 
• Use increased caution when hiking in isolated areas. 
• Develop a communication plan with family, employer, or host organization so they can monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. Specify how you'll confirm you're safe (text, calls, etc.), how often, and who you'll contact first to share the information. 
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Review the Country Security Report for Brazil. 
• Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information  related to your travel and return to the United States. 
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage. 

International Borders – Level 4: Do Not Travel 
Given security risks, U.S. government employees working in Brazil must obtain special authorization to travel within 160 km/100 miles of the international land borders with Bolivia, Colombia, Guyana, French Guiana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela. Travel to the Foz do Iguacu National Park and Pantanal National Park is allowed. 

Do not travel to these areas for any reason.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. 

Informal Housing Developments (commonly known as favelas, vilas, comunidades or conglomerados) – Level 4: Do Not Travel 
Given crime concerns, U.S. government employees working in Brazil must obtain special authorization to travel to informal housing developments in Brazil.

Do not travel to informal housing developments, even on guided tours. Neither tour companies nor police can guarantee your safety when entering these communities. Even in areas that police or local governments deem safe, the situation can change quickly. While some informal housing developments have clear boundaries, other such areas may be less obvious, and may be identified by crowded quarters, impoverished conditions, or irregular construction. Exercise caution near these communities as gang fighting and police clashes sometimes move beyond the confines of these areas.

Check the Safety and Security Section on the country information page and consult the maps on the Embassy’s website for details about favelas. 

Do not travel to these areas for any reason.

Visit our website for Travel High-Risk Areas. 

Brasilia’s “Satellite Cities” – Level 4: Do Not Travel 
Given crime risks, U.S. government employees working in Brazil must obtain special authorization to travel to Brasilia’s Administrative Regions of Ceilandia, Santa Maria, Sao Sebastiao, and Paranoa between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

Do not travel to these areas for any reason.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. 

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France - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Wed, 28 May 2025

Exercise increased caution

in France due to terrorism and unrest.

Pickpocketing and phone thefts are common, especially in crowded places. Terrorist groups continue to plan possible attacks in France and may attack with little to no warning. There are also regular, peaceful protests and strikes in Paris and other cities throughout France. 

Pickpocketing and phone thefts are frequent crimes. They can occur in crowded areas such as: 

• Airports 
• Subways and train cars 
• Tourist attractions 
• Train stations 

Terrorist groups continue to plan possible attacks in France. They may attack with little or no warning. Possible targets include: 

• Tourist locations 
• Transportation hubs and airports 
• Markets and shopping malls 
• Local government facilities 
• Hotels, restaurants, and clubs 
• Places of worship 
• Major sporting and cultural events 
• Educational institutions 
• Parks 
• Other public areas 

Peaceful demonstrations and strikes happen often in Paris and other cities in France. 

• Protests can disrupt transportation services. 
• On rare occasions, protests have turned violent or caused property damage. 
• Police may respond with water cannons and tear gas. 

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South Korea - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Wed, 28 May 2025

Exercise normal precaution

in the Republic of Korea (ROK or South Korea).

• Large-scale demonstrations may occur with little notice, potentially disrupting transportation and other essential services.
• Tensions on the Korean Peninsula remain high. North Korea continues to conduct missile launches and other military activities that may increase tensions. Travelers should monitor local developments and remain vigilant. The South Korean government conducts civil emergency drills throughout the year.
• Please note that consular services, including passport services, are not available at the U.S. Consulate in Busan; they are only available at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul.

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Malta - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Wed, 28 May 2025

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise normal precautions in Malta.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Malta.

If you decide to travel to Malta:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Malta.
• Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

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South Africa - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Tue, 27 May 2025

Exercise increased caution

in South Africa due to crime, terrorism, unrest, and kidnapping.

• Violent crime is common and includes robbery, rape, carjacking and mugging. There are also "smash-and-grab" attacks on vehicles.  
  • Violent crime is more common in the downtown areas of big cities, especially after dark.  
  • Kidnapping is a threat in South Africa. Kidnappers target U.S. citizens and other foreign travelers to steal money.  
  • Captors often force victims to withdraw cash or give online account passwords before they are let go. Though rare, some kidnappings involve demanding ransom from families.  
• There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity, in South Africa. 
• Demonstrations, protests, and strikes occur frequently. They can:  
  • Start suddenly
  • Interrupt traffic, transportation, and other services 
  • Turn violent 

• Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in South Africa must obtain special authorization to travel to many informal settlements (townships) in and around Cape Town. U.S. mission staff must use fully armored vehicles when visiting and visiting hours are limited to 10:00 -15:00 weekdays only.  

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Italy - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Fri, 23 May 2025

Exercise increased caution

in Italy due to terrorism.

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Italy. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more. 

Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. Common targets include:  

• Tourist spots 
• Transportation centers 
• Shopping malls and markets 
• Local government buildings 
• Hotels, clubs and restaurants 
• Religious sites  
• Parks 
• Sporting and cultural events  
• Schools 
• Airports 
• Public areas 

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Liechtenstein - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Thu, 22 May 2025

Exercise normal precaution

in Liechtenstein.

Liechtenstein is generally a safe destination for travelers.

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Belgium - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Thu, 22 May 2025

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise increased caution in Belgium due to terrorism.

Country Summary: There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other related activities in Belgium.

Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. They target:

• Tourist locations
• Transportation hubs (e.g. airports, train stations, mass transit)
• Markets and shopping malls
• Local government buildings
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Parks
• Major sporting, music, and cultural events
• Schools
• Public areas

Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Belgium.

If you decide to travel to Belgium:

• Stay alert in tourist spots. 
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and Alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Review the Country Security Report for Belgium. 
• Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

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Vanuatu - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Thu, 22 May 2025

Updated to reflect lowering the Travel Advisory Level from Level 3 to Level 1 due to ongoing recovery efforts and removal of the Natural Disaster (N) indicator.

Exercise normal precautions in Vanuatu.

Country Summary: Infrastructure and roads in Port Vila and the surrounding area were damaged during the December 2024 earthquake, with repairs in progress.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Vanuatu.

If you decide to travel to Vanuatu:

• Monitor local reports and updates from the Vanuatu government and follow all instructions from local authorities.
• Be aware that some areas may still be undergoing repairs, and access could be restricted. 
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Review the Country Security Report for Vanuatu.   
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.    

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Azerbaijan - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Wed, 21 May 2025

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise increased caution in Azerbaijan due to terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to:

• The border region with Armenia due to potential for armed conflict.
• The former Soviet-era Nagorno Karabakh Autonomous Oblast and surrounding territories due to landmines.

Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue to plan attacks and are a risk in Azerbaijan. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. They may target:

• Tourist locations
• Transportation centers (airports)
• Markets and shopping malls
• Local government buildings
• Hotels, clubs and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Parks
• Major sporting and cultural events
• Educational institutions
• Other public areas

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Azerbaijan.

If you decide to travel to Azerbaijan:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and Alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Azerbaijan.
• Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

Level 4: Do Not Travel - Border with Armenia
There is the potential for fighting along the Azerbaijan-Armenia border.  U.S. citizens should avoid the area. 

Exercise caution on roads near Azerbaijan’s border with Armenia:

• Be aware that some portions of the road may cross international boundaries without notice.
• Roads may be controlled by checkpoints or closed to travelers without notice.
• Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Azerbaijan are prohibited from non-essential travel to the border region. 

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Level 4: Do Not Travel - Former Soviet-era Nagorno Karabakh Autonomous Oblast and surrounding territories

Following armed hostilities in 2023, the former Soviet-era Nagorno Karabakh Autonomous Oblast and surrounding territories are under the control of Azerbaijan.  Despite the cessation of fighting, the dangers posed by landmine contamination continue.  Due to the risks, the U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the former Soviet-era Nagorno Karabakh Autonomous Oblast and surrounding territories, because U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling there and Azerbaijan restricts access to the region.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

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Switzerland  - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Tue, 20 May 2025

Exercise normal precaution

in Switzerland.

Switzerland is generally a safe destination for travelers.

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Tajikistan - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Fri, 16 May 2025

Reissued after periodic review with updates regarding the resumption of cross-border movement between the Kyrgyz Republic and Tajikistan.

Exercise increased caution in Tajikistan due to the risk of terrorism, unexploded landmines, occasional violence near the border with the Kyrgyz Republic, and limited ability to assist U.S.-Tajik dual nationals. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Reconsider travel to:

• Tajikistan’s border with Afghanistan due to terrorism.
• Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO) due to the potential for armed conflict.

Country Summary: Terrorist organizations are known to have a presence in the region and have targeted foreigners and local authorities in the past.

Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. They target:

• Tourist locations
• Transportation hubs
• Markets and shopping malls
• Restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Government facilities.

Visit the U.S. Department of State Country Reports on Terrorism to learn more.

Unexploded landmines and cluster munitions are a hazard along the Afghan-Tajik and Uzbek-Tajik borders, as well as in the Vakhsh and Rasht valleys. Pay attention to land mine warning signs. Do not venture off the road into areas marked with red and white plastic tape. Avoid roadside ditches, shoulders, and unmarked trails in these regions. Never touch anything resembling unexploded munitions.

Be cautious when traveling near, along, and through the Tajikistan-Kyrgyz Republic land border as there have been several instances of armed skirmishes between Tajik and Kyrgyz border guards over the past five years, particularly in the Isfara area and the Vorukh enclave. In March 2025, the March 13, 2025, signing and subsequent ratification of bilateral agreements between the Kyrgyz Republic and Tajikistan have facilitated the resumption of cross-border movement at the Guliston–Kyzyl-Bel and Madaniyat–Kayragach border crossing points.

Tajikistan does not recognize dual nationality with the United States. Dual U.S.-Tajik citizens and U.S. citizens of Tajik descent may be subject to additional scrutiny and harassment from local authorities and may be denied access to U.S. consular officials while in detention.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Tajikistan.

If you decide to travel to Tajikistan:

• Enter Tajikistan on your U.S. passport and keep it with you.
• Have a plan to depart Tajikistan which does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Keep a low profile.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Do not touch unknown metal objects and avoid traveling off well-used roads, tracks, and paths due to risk of unexploded ordnance.
• If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and Alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Tajikistan.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

Border Areas with Afghanistan – Level 3: Reconsider TravelReconsider travel in proximity of Tajikistan's border with Afghanistan due to terrorism. The current political situation in Afghanistan creates a challenging and unpredictable security environment in the border areas. Travel in the mountainous region along the Afghan border can be dangerous due to the proximity of militant groups across the border. Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Tajikistan must obtain special authorization to travel to border areas with Afghanistan. U.S. citizens should remain alert and avoid activities that develop predictable patterns of movement. If documenting travel on social media, ensure your privacy settings do not reveal your exact location.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO)– Level 3: Reconsider TravelThe challenging and unpredictable environment in northern Afghanistan has the potential to create insecurity in neighboring Tajikistan’s GBAO region. GBAO is a restricted region for non-Tajik citizens, requiring travel permits from Tajik authorities. Violent clashes with security forces have erupted in GBAO in recent years, and the government of Tajikistan can suspend travel permits for non-Tajik citizens on short notice. Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Tajikistan must obtain special authorization to travel to GBAO.

Visit our website for information for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

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Peru - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Fri, 16 May 2025

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise increased caution due to crime, civil unrest, and the risk of kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. 

Do not travel to:

• The Colombia-Peru border area in the Loreto Region due to crime. 
• The Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM), which includes Vilcabamba, due to crime and threats of terrorism.   
• Some areas within the regions of Ayacucho, Cusco*, Huancavelica, and Junín, due to crime and threats of terrorism.   

* The city of Cusco and popular tourist sites nearby, like the Sacred Valley, the Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu, are not located in the affected area.   

Country Summary: Crime is common in Peru. Petty theft, carjackings, muggings, assaults, and other violent crime often happen even in daylight hours and with many witnesses around. Kidnapping is rare, but it does occur. The risk of crime increases at night. Criminal groups sometimes set up roadblocks to rob people in areas outside of Lima. 

Ayahuasca and Kambo UsageU.S. travelers should not use Ayahuasca or Kambo because of the known dangers. U.S. citizens have suffered serious illness and, in some cases, died after taking these drugs. They have also been sexually assaulted, injured, or robbed while under the influence of these substances.   

DemonstrationsDemonstrations occur regularly throughout the country. Public demonstrations can take place for a variety of political and economic issues.   Demonstrations can shut down local roads, trains, and major highways. This often happens without warning or clear information on reopening times.  Road closures can limit access to public transportation and airports. Closures may also disrupt travel in and between cities. 

Due to road safety risks, U.S. government employees working in Peru are prohibited from nighttime driving except within cities, between Lima and Huacho (to the north), and Lima and Paracas (to the south). U.S. government employees working in Peru may travel at night with commercial bus companies along the Pan-American Highway, to Huaraz, and on the Lima-Arequipa-Cusco corridor.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Peru.

If you decide to travel to Peru:

• Stay aware of your surroundings. 
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. 
• Check local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans. 
• Avoid demonstrations and large crowds. 
• Develop a communication plan with family or your employer or host organization (if you are traveling on business), so that they can monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. Specify how you'll confirm you're safe (text, calls, etc.), how often, and who you'll contact first to share the information. 
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and Alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Review the Country Security Report for Peru. 
• Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States. 
• We strongly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel.  Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage. 

Colombian-Peruvian border area in the Loreto Region – Level 4: Do Not Travel

• Do not travel to these areas for any reason. 
• Drug trafficking and crime, plus poor infrastructure, limit how well Peruvian law enforcement can operate in this area. 
• Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Peru must obtain special authorization to travel within 20 kilometers of the Peru-Colombia border in the Loreto region.  They cannot travel on the Putumayo River, which forms much of the Peru-Colombia border.  Due to the risks, the U.S. government cannot provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in this area. 

Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM) includes areas within the Departments of Ayacucho, Cusco, Huancavelica, and Junín – Level 4: Do Not Travel

• Do not travel to these areas for any reason. 
• Drug trafficking and crime, plus poor infrastructure, weaken Peruvian law enforcement’s ability to act effectively in this area. 
• Remnants of the Shining Path terrorist group are still active in the VRAEM. The group might strike suddenly. They target Peruvian government sites and staff. 
• Due to security risks, U.S. government employees working in Peru must obtain special authorization to travel to the VRAEM. Due to the risks, the U.S. government can’t provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the VRAEM. 

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Japan - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Thu, 15 May 2025

Exercise normal precaution

in Japan.

U.S. citizens should always exercise caution when traveling abroad. Use these general tips to stay safe.

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Somalia - Level 4: Do Not Travel

Wed, 14 May 2025

Updated with changes to security information.

Do not travel to Somalia due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health, kidnapping, piracy, and lack of availability of routine consular services.

Country SummaryDue to security risks, U.S. government employees working in Somalia are prohibited from traveling outside the Mogadishu International Airport complex where the U.S. Embassy is located. The U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu maintains normal staffing.

CrimeViolent crime is common throughout Somalia, including kidnapping and murder. Illegal roadblocks are widespread.

TerrorismTerrorists continue to plot kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in Somalia. They may attack with little or no warning and target: 

• Airports
• Seaports
• Government buildings
• Hotels and restaurants
• Shopping areas
• Public places that attract large crowds and tourists
• Government, military, and other convoys

Attack methods can include car bombs, suicide bombers, individual attackers, and rocket fire.

Some areas, like the Somaliland region, have seen less terrorist activity. However, violence and explosive attacks can happen anywhere in Somalia, at any time.

Civil UnrestProtests and demonstrations occur throughout Somalia. They can sometimes turn violent.

• Check local media for breaking events. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.

HealthMedical facilities in Somalia have limited capacity. They are often absent in rural areas. The health care system lacks sufficient pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, and medical professionals. Hospitals do not meet U.S. standards. 

• Bring enough supply of over the counter and prescription medicines, along with copies of their prescriptions, including the generic name for the medicines.

PiracyPirates are active in the waters off the Horn of Africa, specifically off the coast of Puntland.

Kidnapping
Violent crime, including kidnapping, is common throughout Somalia. Illegal roadblocks are widespread.

Lack of availability of consular servicesThe U.S. government has extremely limited ability to help U.S. citizens in Somalia. There is no permanent consular officer in Somalia, not even the Somaliland region. If a traveler’s passport is lost, stolen, expires, or if they become destitute, the U.S. government may not be able to help.

Other issuesSome schools and other facilities act as “rehabilitation” centers. These facilities exist throughout Somalia with little or no licensing and oversight. Reports of physical abuse are common. People also report being held against their will in these facilities.

There are frequent reports of U.S. citizens who have their passports taken by family members, leaving them unable to leave Somalia. This often occurs when U.S. citizens travel to Somalia to visit family or attend an event. Some adult U.S. citizens cannot leave the international airport because they need explicit consent from their family.

Due to risks to civil aviation from extremist and military activity, the Federal Aviation Administration has issued a Special Federal Aviation Regulation that bans certain U.S. flights within or near Somalia. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices.

Read the Country Information Page for additional information on travel to Somalia.

If you decide to travel to Somalia:

• Review your personal security plan and visit our page on Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Make a plan to exit Somalia rapidly if the situation gets worse. Identify multiple options for leaving Somalia and know the entry requirements for U.S. citizens in to neighboring countries.
• Avoid sailing near the coast of Somalia and review the Live Piracy Report published by the International Maritime Bureau.
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
• Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States. Find a suggested list of such documents here.
• Make your own personal security plan with your employer or host organization (if you are traveling on business) or consider consulting with a professional security organization.
• Develop a communication plan with family and/or your employer or host organization (if you are traveling on business), so that they can monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. This plan should specify whom you would contact first, and how that person should share the information.
• Identify key sources of possible assistance for you and your family in case of emergency, such as your employer (if traveling on business), and local friends/family as well as friends/family outside Somalia.
• Appoint one family member to be the point of contact with hostage-takers and media.
• Appoint a family member to be the contact for the U.S. and host country government agencies, and members of Congress if you are taken hostage or detained.
• Discuss a proof of life protocol with your loved ones, so that if you are taken hostage, your loved ones can know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to be sure that you are alive (and to rule out a scam).
• Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them.
• Erase any sensitive photos, comments, or other materials from your social media pages, cameras, laptops, and other electronic devices. These could be considered controversial or provocative by local groups.
• Do not bring your sentimental belongings to Somalia.
• Enroll your trip in the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
• Review the Country Security Report for Somalia.
• Prepare a backup plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Update vaccinations to include all up-to-date standard vaccinations, plus Cholera, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, rabies, and a Polio booster.
• All visitors should take Malaria prophylaxis. Somalia is high risk for Malaria.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

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Germany - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Tue, 13 May 2025

Exercise increased caution

in Germany due to terrorism.

Terrorist groups and lone actors remain a constant threat in Germany and Europe, attacking people in public locations with knives, small arms, rudimentary explosive devices, and vehicles.  Such attacks may occur with little or no warning and target:  

• Tourist locations 
• Transportation centers (airports, train, or bus stations)  
• Markets and shopping malls 
• Local government facilities 
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants 
• Places of worship and educational institutions 
• Parks 
• Major sporting and cultural events 
• Schools

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Spain - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Mon, 12 May 2025

Exercise increased caution

in Spain due to terrorism and unrest.

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Spain. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning and target:

• Tourist locations
• Transportation centers like airports and train stations
• Markets and shopping malls
• Local government facilities
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship and educational institutions
• Parks
• Major sporting and cultural events

Demonstrations are common.  They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

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Burma (Myanmar) - Level 4: Do Not Travel

Mon, 12 May 2025

Updated to reflect changes to risk indicators, restrictions on U.S. government personnel, and the “If you decide to travel to Burma” section.

Do not travel to Burma due to armed conflict, the potential for civil unrest, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, poor health infrastructure, land mines and unexploded ordnance, crime, and wrongful detentions.

Country Summary: The Burma military regime deposed elected leaders and officials in a February 2021 coup d'état. Protests and demonstrations against military rule can occur on significant dates. The military has responded to those protests with violence and by arbitrarily detaining protesters and bystanders.

The Department has determined that U.S. nationals are at significant risk of wrongful detention by military regime authorities. Wrongfully detained U.S. nationals have been held in prison for years, often in poor conditions and without fair and transparent treatment or consistent access to U.S. Embassy officials or their families.

Due to the unpredictable nature of ongoing armed conflict and potential civil unrest in Burma, U.S. government employees working in Burma may be prohibited from traveling within the country.

Due to the risks in the country, dependents under the age of 21 cannot accompany U.S. government employees who work in Burma.

Armed conflicts occur throughout Burma, and the potential for civil unrest is high. The level of armed conflict and civil unrest varies significantly between and within states and regions and may change at any time.

Attacks by opposition militia on locations connected to the military and security authorities regularly occur in Rangoon and many other parts of the country. Local opposition militia groups actively operate around the country. Travelers are cautioned of the potential for the regime to limit access to highways and airports, causing an isolating situation.

Improvised explosive devices (IEDs) are used in the ongoing armed conflicts, including within the greater Rangoon area. From January to December 2024, the U.S. Embassy in Rangoon calculated an average of 21 explosions per month detonated against regime personnel and facilities in Rangoon. Outside of Rangoon, there have been IED attacks against checkpoints and military, administrative, and police facilities.

Land mines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) exist throughout Burma, and their locations are often not marked or otherwise unidentifiable. The military regime will often arbitrarily enforce local laws, including detaining individuals without fair and transparent treatment. Foreigners, including U.S. citizens, are not excluded from this practice. U.S. citizens traveling or residing in Burma may be detained, and regime authorities could deny a prisoner access to U.S. consular services or information about the alleged crime.

Local law enforcement officials may also detain and/or deport U.S. citizens for speaking out or protesting against the military regime, including on their personal social media accounts, and for sending private electronic messages critical of the military regime, regardless of whether they were physically in Burma when they did so.

Burma has limited and/or inadequate healthcare and emergency medical resources.

As of April 2024, the Burma military regime began implementing a military conscription law for males up to age 45 and females up to age 35. The military regime may prevent departure of people they view as eligible for conscription, including U.S. citizens who previously held Burmese nationality, and force them into the military.

Crime in Burma has been increasing. Violent crime against foreigners is rare, but there have been incidents involving attacks by taxi drivers and muggings. People are advised to take particular care when taking taxis late at night.

Foreign nationals, including U.S. citizens, have been trafficked into Burma and forced to work in internet scam centers, often located in active conflict zones along Burma's eastern borders. These victims often respond to ads promising jobs in Thailand and are then forced or unwittingly lured into working at scam centers in Burma. 

Read the Country Information page for additional information on travel to Burma.

If you decide to travel to Burma:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Embassy’s Consular Section on Facebook.
• Review the Country Security Report for Burma.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
• Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Avoid traveling off well-used roads, tracks, and paths, and do not touch unknown metal objects due to risk of unexploded ordnance.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Make back up plans to leave the country on short notice should conditions warrant, including evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Review local laws and conditions before traveling.
• Review our website on Dual-Nationality.
• Visit our website for High-Risk Area Travelers.
• Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones. This is so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States. Review this list of documents to prepare for your trip.
• Develop a communication plan with family and/or your employer or host organization.
• Erase any sensitive photos, comments, or other materials that could be considered controversial or provocative by local groups from your social media pages, cameras, laptops, and other electronic devices prior to travel.

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