The advisory level was increased to 3. The “natural disaster” risk indicator was added. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. embassy operations.

Reconsider Travel to Jamaica due to Crime, Health, and Natural Disaster risks. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Advisory summaryOn October 28, 2025, the Department of State authorized non-emergency personnel and family members of U.S. government employees to leave Jamaica due to Hurricane Melissa.

Hurricane DamageHurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica on October 27, 2025, causing widespread damage.

The U.S. Embassy in Kingston has temporarily reduced staffing and may limit routine services for U.S. citizens.
Consider rescheduling planned travel to Jamaica at this time. If you intend to travel, confirm availability with your transportation provider and at your destination before you depart.
U.S. citizens in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands should monitor weather reports and follow instructions of local authorities.
Enroll in STEP to receive updates on conditions in Jamaica from the U.S. embassy. Previously issued STEP updates are available on the embassy website.

CrimeWhile violent crime in Jamaica has decreased since 2024, it remains statistically high throughout the country. 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 infrequently prosecuted to a final verdict and sentence.

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.

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

Medical careBasic 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.

Private hospitals require payment up front before admitting patients and may not have the ability to provide specialized care.
Ambulance services are not always staffed with EMTs and are not always readily available, especially in rural areas.
U.S. citizens should bring extra prescription medication as common medications, such as insulin, can be difficult to obtain.
U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.
Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.
Air ambulance service to the United States can range from $30,000-$50,000.
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.

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 below 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:

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.
Have a plan to depart in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
Avoid walking or driving at night.
Avoid public buses.
Avoid remote places.
Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
Be aware of your surroundings and keep a low profile.
Review our information on Travel to High-Risk Areas, Crime Abroad, and for Victims of Crime.
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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Greece - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Thu, 23 Oct 2025

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

Advisory Summary

Exercise normal precautions in Greece.
Petty crime is common, especially in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings.
Large-scale demonstrations related to the local political situation may occur with little notice. Demonstrations may disrupt transportation and other essential services.

If you decide to travel to Greece:

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 Greece.
Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Greece.
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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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

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

Advisory summaryThe 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 ConflictArmed 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.

CrimeCrime, 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, others may intend to loot, others may present a risk to particular populations.

TerrorismMembers 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.

LandminesLandmines 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.

HealthMedical 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.

For U.S. citizens in Sudan:

The Department of State urges U.S. citizens to leave Sudan.
Travel within Sudan is conducted at your own risk. The U.S. government cannot guarantee your safety traveling to airports, borders, or during any onward travel. You should consider your personal security situation before traveling anywhere in Sudan. Only attempt to depart Sudan or travel within Sudan if you believe it is safe for you to do so.
Exercise extreme caution in all parts of the country, including Khartoum.
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 crime, including for victims of crime.
There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity, in Sudan. 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.
Landmines and unexploded ordnance exist throughout Sudan. The locations of landmines and unexploded ordnance are often not known, marked, or easy to recognize.
Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
Stay aware of your surroundings.
Draft a will. Designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or draft a power of attorney.
Develop a communication plan with your family, your employer, or your host organization. List how and when you will confirm you are safe (text or call). Specify how often you will do this.
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 you are being held captive and alive.
Make sure your insurance includes specific coverage for medical evacuation from Sudan.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. government. Enrolling helps the U.S. government contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
Review the Country Security Report for Sudan.
Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for the latest Travel Health Information for Sudan.
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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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

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

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

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.

Advisory Summary:

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.

Land Border Restrictions

Foreign citizens entering the country by land from Colombia or Peru must show a certificate of no criminal record. This certificate must be apostilled. You can find more information on the Ministry of Tourism’s webpage and at Ecuador.Travel.
The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General in Ecuador cannot help you get the necessary documents for crossing a land border.
U.S. citizens planning to enter Ecuador via a land border should check the State Department’s Office of Authentications webpage and Criminal Records Check webpage. These pages have information on getting a criminal record check and apostille from the United States.

Read the destination information page for additional information on traveling to Ecuador.

Risks in specific areas

Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to these areas for any reason 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.

Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.

Terrorists, Transnational Criminal Groups, and Local Gangs

Terrorist and other criminal organizations often commit violent acts in these areas, including sudden attacks in public places, often without warning.
Violent crimes can involve murder, targeted assassinations, armed robberies, bombings, kidnappings, and assaults.
Violence in these areas has risen both in frequency and brutality recently, posing a security risk to U.S. citizens.
U.S. government employees working in Ecuador must get special permission to travel to these areas.
The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas.

Level 3: Reconsider Travel

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.

Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.

Terrorist and other criminal organizations have engaged in violent activity in these areas. Recently, this violence has increased. U.S. government personnel must be very careful and stay alert when traveling in and around these areas. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas.

If you decide to travel to Ecuador:

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 our information on Terrorism and Travel to High-Risk Areas.
Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
Stay aware of your surroundings.
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.
Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
Check local media for breaking news.
Review the Country Security Report for Ecuador.
Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Ecuador.
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.
Review our information on U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad and for Victims of Crime.

Review Travel to High-Risk Areas

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Croatia - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Thu, 09 Oct 2025

There were no changes to the advisory level. An area of increased risk was added. Advisory summary was updated.

Advisory Summary

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

Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Karlovac and Lika-Senj countiesExercise increased caution in Karlovac and Lika-Senj counties due to landmines.

According to the Croatian government, about 24.5 square kilometers in Croatia could have landmines. These areas are in mostly dense forests and rough terrain.
Warning signs mark areas at risk with the international landmine symbol. This symbol features a skull and crossbones in a red, upside-down triangle.
The government of Croatia expects the country to be completely demined by the end of 2026.

If you decide to travel to Croatia:

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 Croatia.
Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Croatia.
Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel 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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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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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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Madagascar - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Sat, 27 Sep 2025

The advisory level was increased to Level 3. There were no changes to the risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

Reconsider travel to Madagascar due to crime and unrest.

Advisory Summary

Unrest

Protests occur throughout the country, and they can turn violent without warning. Protesters have also engaged in rioting, looting, vandalism and destruction of property. Police responses to protests and large gatherings can quickly become violent.

U.S. citizens should stay in place and avoid areas with protests or demonstrations. Sporadic protests may develop quickly, especially after dark.

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

Crime

Violent crime occurs throughout Madagascar, particularly after dark. This includes armed robbery and assault. It can happen in remote areas, and along major national roads in the country’s south and west.

Violent confrontations are on the rise in Madagascar. The Dahalo, criminal gangs known for stealing cattle, are clashing more with security forces. This is happening mainly in areas south and west of the capital.

Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.

If you decide to travel to Madagascar:

Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
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 events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
Avoid walking alone, especially after dark.
Do not travel on the roads between cities after dark.
Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
Be aware of your surroundings. Thefts of items from vehicles is common and may involve ruses or distraction, particularly when stuck in traffic.
Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.
Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive jewelry or watches.
Review the Country Security Report for Madagascar.
Whether you’re 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 Madagascar.
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.

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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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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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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Belarus - Level 4: Do Not Travel

Thu, 28 Aug 2025

Do not travel to Belarus due to:

The risk of harassment by Belarusian security officials.
The arbitrary enforcement of local laws.
The potential for civil unrest.
Danger associated with its continued support of Russia’s war against Ukraine.

Ordered DepartureOn February 28, 2022, the Department of State ordered the departure of U.S. government employees and the suspension of operations at U.S. Embassy Minsk. 

All consular services, routine and emergency, are suspended until further notice. The U.S. government has severely limited ability to help U.S. citizens in Belarus. U.S. citizens in Belarus who require consular services should leave the country immediately and contact a U.S. embassy or consulate in another country.

Advisory Summary:The U.S. government has extremely limited ability to assist detained U.S. citizens. A U.S. citizen may not receive consular access and could face extended periods of detention with no contact with the outside world.

Dual CitizenshipBelarus does not recognize dual nationality. Belarus will not recognize your U.S. citizenship if you are a dual U.S.-Belarusian citizen or have a claim to Belarusian citizenship.

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 leaving the country, and in some cases forced dual citizens into mandatory military service.

DemonstrationsIn Belarus, peaceful assembly and freedom of speech are not protected rights. 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 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 individuals associated with independent and foreign media.

Belarusian authorities have detained tens of thousands of individuals, including U.S. citizens, accused of links to opposition parties and involvement in political protests, even if these links or associated activities occurred outside Belarus.

About 1,100 prisoners are currently in prison or otherwise detained for political activities that may not be considered crimes in the United States. The Belarusian authorities have denied prisoners access to their embassy and lawyers, as well as restricted communication with family outside prison Conditions in Belarusian detention facilities are extremely poor and there are credible accounts of prisoners being mistreated and abused while in custody.

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

Air TravelThere are few commercial air travel options available into and out of Belarus. Flights could be unavailable on short notice, and 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 can only offer limited help to 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 improperly forced the landing of a commercial plane transiting through Belarusian airspace in order to arrest an opposition journalist who was a passenger.

On February 24, 2022, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an ongoing Advisory Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) banning U.S. air carriers and commercial operators, U.S. pilots, and U.S. registered aircraft from operating in the Minsk Flight Information Region (UMMV) due to safety-of-flight risks associated with ongoing hostilities. The Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices includes more information.

Review the country information page for additional information on travel to Belarus.

If you choose to disregard the Travel Advisory and travel to Belarus: 

Prepare a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or power of attorney.
Share important documents, log-in 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. Review this list of documents to prepare for your trip.
Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care and custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.) funeral wishes, etc.
Leave DNA samples with your medical providers in case it is necessary for your family to access them.
Develop a communication plan with family, your employer or host organization. List how and when you’ll confirm you’re safe (text or call). Specify how often you will do this.
Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance. Review the information on what the U.S. government can and cannot do to assist you in an emergency while overseas.
Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
Consider the unique risks of possessing dual U.S.-Belarusian nationality.
Reconsider bringing electronic devices to Belarus.
Log out of all social media accounts, and do not access personal social media accounts while in Belarus.
Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
Check local and international media for breaking events. Be prepared to adjust your plans based on new information.
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 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 Belarus.
Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Belarus.
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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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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