travel.state.gov: Travel Advisories

travel.state.gov: Travel Advisories

travel.state.gov: Travel Advisories

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.

    Full Story

    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

    Full Story

    Brazil - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

    Fri, 08 Aug 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. 

    Full Story

    United Arab Emirates - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

    Fri, 08 Aug 2025

    Reissued to reflect current security conditions.

    Exercise increased caution in the United Arab Emirates due to the threat of terrorism and missile or drone attacks.

    Country Summary: Residents and visitors generally find a safe and secure environment in the UAE. However, elevated regional tensions have aggravated the risk of aerial and other terror attacks across the region. 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.

    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, U.S. citizens who plan to travel to the region should check the FAA’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.

    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. U.S. citizens should review the Department of State’s Country Information Page for the UAE to learn about local laws, special circumstances, and additional information about travel to the United Arab Emirates. media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.

    Full Story

    Antarctica - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

    Mon, 28 Jul 2025

    Reissued after periodic review without changes.

    • 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/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.

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

    If you travel to Antarctica:

    • 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.
    • Travel with a professional guide or organization such as those that are a member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, or, if organizing a private expedition, be self-sufficient and have emergency medical evacuation insurance. 
    • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
    • 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.
    • Contact the Department of State’s Office of Ocean and Polar Affairs for travel information at Antarctica@state.gov.

    Full Story

    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.

    Full Story

    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..

    Full Story

    Syria - Level 4: Do Not Travel

    Wed, 23 Jul 2025

    Updated to reflect recent developments in Syria.

    Do not travel to Syria due to the risk of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, hostage taking, and armed conflict.

    Country Summary: The U.S. government suspended operations of the U.S. Embassy in 2012. Czechia serves as the protecting power for the United States in Syria. The U.S. government is unable to provide any routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Syria. Do not travel to Syria for any reason.

    Syria has experienced active armed conflict since 2011. No part of Syria is safe from violence. Hostage taking by armed groups, terrorism, remnants of war such as 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 inside the country.

    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 hostage taking by armed groups, injury, or death.

     There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Syria. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more. Parts of Syria have experienced recent increases in incidents of bombings, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and assassinations. 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 penalties including prison time and large fines.

    There is an ongoing risk of hostage taking of U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals throughout the country. In the past, U.S. citizens have been targets of abduction and detention in Syria. Those in detention may not have access to fair judicial process or medical attention. Current detention center conditions are unclear but could be harsh and unsanitary. Failure to obtain a legitimate entry visa directly from the Syrian government could result in detention.

    The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) advising against travel to Syria due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Syria. 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 Syria, including alerts related to the closure of airspace.

    If despite this warning, you decide to travel to Syria:

    • Visit our website on Travel to High Risk Areas.
    • Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or power of attorney.
    • Familiarize yourself with and respect local laws and customs. Foreign travelers may face increased risk of detention and harassment.
    • Establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones. This is 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 (and to rule out a hoax).
    • Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your loved ones to access them.
    • Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones. This is so they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States. Review thoroughly this list of documents to prepare for your trip.
    • Check local media for breaking events. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
    • 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’re safe (texts, calls, etc.), how often, and whom you will contact first to share the information.
    • Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
    • Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
    • Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
    • Make backup plans to leave the country.
    • Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and Alerts.
    • 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.

    Full Story

    Iraq - Level 4: Do Not Travel

    Thu, 17 Jul 2025

    Updated to reflect the lifting of ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel.

    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.

    Country Summary: 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. 

    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.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    If you decide to travel to 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 receive alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to contact you 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.
    • Prepare 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

      Full Story

      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:

      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.

      Full Story

      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.

      Full Story

      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.

      Full Story

      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.

      Full Story

      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.

      Full Story

      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:

      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.

      Full Story

      Lebanon - Level 4: Do Not Travel

      Thu, 03 Jul 2025

      Updated to reflect the lifting of ordered departure of family members and non-emergency U.S. government personnel.

      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.

      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.

      Commercial flights are available, but at reduced capacity. Please check flight options at Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport.

      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.

      Since October 8, 2023, cross-border exchanges of fire have occurred between Hizballah and Israel. In some instances, targets have been well north of the border region. A cessation of hostilities between Israel and Lebanon went into effect on November 27, and implementation is ongoing; however, there are continued instances of military activity in some areas of Lebanon. The Lebanese government cannot guarantee the safety of U.S. citizens against sudden outbreaks of violence and armed conflict. Family, neighborhood, or sectarian disputes can escalate quickly and can lead to gunfire or other violence with no warning.

      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 Westerners.
      • 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/Twitter.
      • 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 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 cessation of hostilities went into effect.

      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.

      Full Story

      Dominican Republic - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Wed, 18 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.

      Full Story

      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.

      Full Story

      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:

      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.

      Full Story

      Canada - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Wed, 11 Jun 2025

      Exercise normal precaution

      in Canada.

      Canada is generally a safe destination for travelers. 

      Full Story

      United Kingdom - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Tue, 10 Jun 2025

      Exercise increased caution

      in the United Kingdom due to terrorism.

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

      Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in the United Kingdom.  Terrorists may attack with little or no warning and target: 

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

      There is also risk of isolated violence by dissident groups in Northern Ireland, focused primarily on police and military targets.

      Full Story

      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:                                  

      Full Story

      Qatar - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Tue, 03 Jun 2025

      Updated after periodic review with minor edits.

      Exercise normal precautions in Qatar.

      The 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, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration.

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

      If you decide to travel to Qatar:

      Full Story

      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:

      Full Story

      Jamaica - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Thu, 29 May 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with a change in level.

      Some areas have increased risk. Consider crime and limited medical services. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

      Do Not Travel To:

      • High crime areas, described in detail below.

      Country Summary: While violent crime in Jamaica has decreased since 2024, it remains statistically high throughout the country. Tourist areas generally see lower rates of violent crime than other parts of the country. The homicide rate reported by the Government of Jamaica is among the highest in the Western Hemisphere. Armed robberies and sexual assaults are common. U.S. embassy employees are prohibited from using public buses and from driving between cities at night.

      Victims of crimeThe 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.

      Medical careU.S. citizens should not expect the same level of health care available in Jamaica as is available in the United States. 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.

      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.

      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.

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

      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.
      • 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.
      • 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 for Jamaica.
      • 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.

      Specific areas of Jamaica – Level 4: Do Not Travel

      Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Jamaica are prohibited from traveling to certain areas. The off-limits zones for U.S. embassy personnel within each parish are listed below.

      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.

      Full Story

      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. 

      Full Story

      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 related to the domestic political situation 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.

      Full Story

      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:

      Full Story

      South Korea - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Wed, 28 May 2025

      Updated to reflect information on demonstrations and ongoing physician shortage. 

      Exercise normal precautions when traveling to the Republic of Korea (ROK or South Korea). 

      Advisory summary: Large-scale demonstrations related to the domestic political situation 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.

      Read the country information page  for additional information on travel to South Korea. 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.

      If you decide to travel to South Korea:

      Full Story

      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.  

      Full Story

      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 

      Full Story

      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.

      Full Story

      Liechtenstein - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Thu, 22 May 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

      Exercise normal precautions in Liechtenstein.

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

      If you decide to travel to Liechtenstein:

      Full Story

      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.    

      Full Story

      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:

      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.

      Full Story

      Switzerland - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Tue, 20 May 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

      Exercise normal precautions in Switzerland.

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

      If you decide to travel to Switzerland:

      Full Story

      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.

      Full Story

      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. 

      Full Story

      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.

      Full Story

      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.

      Full Story

      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

      Full Story

      Germany - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Tue, 13 May 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with updates to Advisory Summary.

      Exercise increased caution in Germany due to terrorism.

      Advisory Summary: 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

      If you decide to travel to Germany:

      • Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
      • Follow the instructions of local authorities.
      • Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.

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

      Full Story

      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.

      Full Story

      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.

      Full Story

      Venezuela - Level 4: Do Not Travel

      Mon, 12 May 2025

      Reissued May 12, 2025, to emphasize the extreme danger to U.S. citizens living in or traveling to Venezuela.

      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 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.
      • The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) due to risks to civil aviation safety in Venezuelan airspace. For more information 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.

      Full Story

      Guyana - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

      Mon, 12 May 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor changes.

      Reconsider travel to Guyana due to crime.

      Country Summary: Violent crime, including murder and armed robbery, is common, especially at night. Local police often lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. 

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

      If you decide to travel to Guyana:

      • Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
      • Be aware of your surroundings.
      • Avoid walking or driving at night.
      • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
      • Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
      • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
      • Review the Country Security Report for Guyana.
      • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
      • 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.

      Full Story

      Russia - Level 4: Do Not Travel

      Thu, 08 May 2025

      Reissued after periodic review.

      Do not travel to Russia due to:

      • Danger associated with the continuing war between Russia and Ukraine.
      • The risk of harassment or wrongful detention by Russian security officials.
      • The arbitrary enforcement of local laws.
      • The possibility of terrorism.

      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 and the Russian government has 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 a U.S. citizen will be afforded consular access or released before their entire prison sentence is served. The risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals remains high. Even if a case is determined wrongful, there is no guarantee of release.

      Russian officials have questioned and threatened 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 that killed 130 people, as well as attacks in Dagestan targeting places of worship. In an emergency, you should follow instructions from local authorities and seek shelter.

      Dual citizenshipRussia 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 people with dual citizenship to join the military and has stopped them from leaving the country.
      • In 2022, Russia started drafting citizens for the war in Ukraine. The military draft is ongoing.

      DemonstrationsIn 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 devicesReconsider 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 cardsU.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.

      Air travelThere 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.

      Click here for Information for U.S. Citizens Seeking to Depart Russia.

      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 outside of Russia generally are 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 circumstancesRussian 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 assistance.
      • 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.

      SecurityThere have been drone attacks and explosions 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.

      LGB travelersThe Russian government's current "propaganda" law bans discussion of LGB topics. The community has been labeled as extremist, and it is considered a crime to support the human rights of LGB people in Russia. Displaying certain symbols, including the rainbow flag, is a crime.

      TerrorismTerrorists continue to plan and carry out attacks in Russia. The March 2024 Crocus City Hall incident in Moscow proved terrorists can strike suddenly.

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

      Russian annexation of territoriesThe international community does not recognize Russia’s 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.

      If you choose to disregard the Travel Advisory and decide to travel to Russia:

      • The Department has determined that the risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals is significant.
      • Be ready for the possibility of detention for an unknown amount of time, possibly without a clear reason, and without the ability to contact your embassy or anyone else for help.
      • Prepare a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or power of attorney.
      • 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. 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 provider 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. Read the information on what the U.S. government can and cannot do to assist you in an emergency overseas.
      • Visit our website on Travel to High-Risk areas.
      • Consider the risks involved in having dual U.S.-Russian nationality.
      • Log out of all social media accounts and do not access your social media accounts while in Russia.
      • Keep travel documents up-to-date and easily accessible.
      • 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 Russia.
      • 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.

      Full Story

      Philippines - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Thu, 08 May 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits. 

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

      Do Not Travel to:

      • The Sulu Archipelago, including the southern Sulu Sea, due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping.
      • Marawi City in Mindanao due to terrorism and civil unrest.

      Reconsider Travel to:

      • Other areas of Mindanao due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping.

      Country Summary: Terrorists and armed groups have carried out kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks targeting public areas like tourist sites, markets, and local government facilities in the Philippines.  Violent crimes are also common in the Philippines such as robbery, kidnappings, and physical assaults.  Protests happen in the Philippines and could turn violent and/or result in traffic jams and road closures with limited capacity of the local government to respond. 

      Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in the Philippines must obtain special authorization to travel to certain areas of the country as stated below. 

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

      If you decide to travel to the Philippines:

      The Sulu Archipelago and Sulu Sea – Level 4: Do Not Travel

      Do not travel to these areas for any reason. 

      Terrorist and armed groups in the Sulu Archipelago and the Sulu Sea have historically engaged in kidnappings for ransom on land and at sea, in addition to bombings and other attacks.  These incidents often target foreign nationals, including U.S. citizens, local government entities, and security personnel. 

      Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in the Philippines must obtain special authorization to travel to Sulu Archipelago and Sulu Sea.  The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas.   

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Marawi City in Mindanao – Level 4: Do Not Travel

      Do not travel to these areas for any reason. 

      Civilians face risk of death or injury from ongoing clashes between terrorist group remnants and Philippine security forces in Marawi. 

      Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in the Philippines must obtain special authorization to travel to Marawi City.  The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens there.   

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Mindanao (except Davao City, Davao del Norte Province, Siargao Island, and the Dinagat Islands) – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

      Terrorist and armed groups in Mindanao have historically engaged in kidnappings for ransom, in addition to bombings and other attacks.  These incidents often target foreign nationals, including U.S. citizens, as well as civilians, local government entities, and security forces. 

      Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in the Philippines must obtain special authorization to travel to areas outside of Davao City, Davao del Norte Province, Siargao Island, and the Dinagat Islands.  The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in those areas. 

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

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Full Story

      Uruguay - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Wed, 07 May 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with changes.

      Exercise increased caution in Uruguay due to crime.

      Country Summary:Crime is most common in these departments:

      • Montevideo
      • Canelones
      • Maldonado
      • Rivera

      Violent crimes, such as homicides, armed robberies, car jackings, and thefts occur throughout the country. These crimes happen at any time and have affected U.S. citizens. Criminals commonly travel in pairs on motorcycles to approach unsuspecting victims with a weapon and demand personal belongings. Armed criminals also target grocery stores, restaurants, financial centers, and small businesses, in which innocent bystanders are often victimized.

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

      If you decide to travel to Uruguay:

      • Be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling to tourist locations or poorly lit areas.
      • Call 911 if you encounter a crime in progress. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt or try to stop a robbery in progress.
      • Be vigilant when visiting banks or using ATMs during non-daylight hours or in remote locations; criminals often target ATMs and businesses in the early morning hours.
      • Do not leave valuable objects in parked vehicles or in plain sight when driving.
      • Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive jewelry or watches.
      • Review your personal and residential security plans.
      • 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 Uruguay.
      • 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.

      Full Story

      Cuba - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Wed, 07 May 2025

      Updated to reflect information on power grid failures and Department of the Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) licenses for travel.

      Exercise increased caution in Cuba due to crime and unreliable electrical power.

      Country Summary: Petty crime is a risk for travelers in Cuba. This includes pick pocketing, purse snatchings, and car break-ins. Violent crime, including armed robbery and homicide, is also on the rise in Cuba.

      U.S. law and regulation prohibit travel to, from, or within Cuba for tourist activities. OFAC regulates travel to, from, and within Cuba by persons subject to U.S. jurisdiction, defined to include, among other things, all U.S. citizens or residents (wherever located) and anyone in the United States, regardless of their citizenship and nationality. Failure by a person subject to U.S. jurisdiction to act consistently with the regulations may result in penalties and criminal prosecution. Travel to Cuba without an OFAC license is illegal.

      Cuba's electrical supply is unreliable. Since October 2024, there have been several prolonged nationwide power outages. Scheduled and unscheduled power cuts lasting up to 12 hours occur daily in Havana, and even longer outside the capital. Some large businesses, hotels, hospitals, and institutions use generators during power outages. However, they may have trouble keeping the generators running during a long outage due to the inconsistent and scarce availability of fuel.

      U.S. citizens in Cuba or those planning to visit should check local news often to stay up to date. In Cuba, peaceful assembly and freedom of speech are not protected rights. U.S. citizens should avoid protests or demonstrations.

      U.S. Embassy employees must follow a special notification process with the Government of Cuba to travel outside of Havana. This process can impact the embassy's ability to help U.S. citizens in Cuba during emergencies.

      If a person subject to U.S. jurisdiction travels to Cuba consistent with 1 of the 12 travel categories authorized by a general OFAC license, the person would not need to apply for a specific OFAC license for the travel transactions. For non-tourist travel that is not otherwise covered by a general license, a person subject to U.S. jurisdiction must seek a specific license from OFAC to authorize the travel. For travel questions, check 31 C.F.R. 515.560 and OFAC’s Frequently Asked Questions.

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

      If you decide to travel to Cuba:

      • Stay aware of your surroundings.
      • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
      • Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
      • Prepare for prolonged power outages by:
        • Keeping mobile phones and portable battery banks charged.
        • Having flashlights and spare batteries easily accessible.
        • Stocking up on nonperishable food and water.
        • Preparing alternative methods to meet your medical needs (medical devices requiring power, medicines requiring refrigeration, etc.)
      • Obtain any required OFAC licenses as it is illegal to travel to Cuba without an appropriate license.
      • 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.
      • 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 buying insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

      Full Story

      Trinidad and Tobago - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

      Wed, 07 May 2025

      Updated to reflect the end of the State of Emergency on April 13, 2025.

      Reconsider travel to Trinidad and Tobago due to serious risks from crime. There are also heightened risks of terrorism and kidnapping.

      Country Summary: Violent crime is common in Trinidad and Tobago. It includes:

      • Murder
      • Robbery
      • Assault
      • Sexual assault
      • Home invasion
      • Kidnapping

      Gang activity, such as narcotics trafficking, is common. A significant portion of violent crime is gang-related.

      Due to the risks from crime, U.S. government employees working in Trinidad and Tobago are prohibited from travelling to the following areas in Port of Spain:

      • At any time:
        • Laventille,
        • The southern end of Charlotte Street between Oxford Street and Park Street (past the General Hospital)
        • Piccadilly Street
        • Besson Street
        • Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite, and the interior of Queens’ Park Savannah.
      • At night:
        • Downtown Port of Spain
        • Fort George overlook, and all beaches.

      Foreigners and a U.S. lawful permanent resident have been recent victims of kidnapping.

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

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

      • Tourist locations
      • Transportation centers (airports)
      • Markets and shopping malls
      • Local government buildings
      • Hotels and clubs
      • Restaurants
      • Places of worship
      • Parks
      • Major sporting and cultural events
      • Schools

      Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Trinidad and Tobago.

      If you decide to travel to Trinidad and Tobago:

      • Use caution when walking or driving at night. Avoid poorly lit or remote areas.
      • Be aware of possible online dating scams, either for potential financial theft or physical harm.
      • Stay aware of your surroundings.
      • Do not display signs of wealth, like cash, expensive watches, or jewelry.
      • Stay alert when visiting banks and ATMs.
      • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt unless forced into a vehicle or remote area.
      • Check local media for breaking events. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
      • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
      • Develop a communication plan with family or your employer or host organization (if you are traveling on business). 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 whom 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. It makes it easier to locate you in an emergency.
      • Review the Country Security Report for Trinidad and Tobago. 
      • 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.

      Full Story

      Paraguay - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Wed, 30 Apr 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

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

      Exercise increased caution due to crime in these departments:

      • Alto Paraná
      • Amambay
      • Canindeyu
      • Concepcion
      • San Pedro

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

      If you decide to travel to Paraguay:

      Departments of Alto Paraná, Amambay, Canindeyu, Concepcion, and San Pedro – Level 2:  Exercise Increased Caution

      Criminal groups are active in these areas, smuggling weapons, drugs, and other goods along the northeastern border of Paraguay with Brazil. The police presence in these areas is weak. Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Paraguay must obtain special authorization to travel to Alto Paraná, Amambay, Canindeyu, Concepcion, and San Pedro.

      Full Story

      Indonesia - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Wed, 30 Apr 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

      Exercise increased caution in Indonesia due to terrorism and natural disasters. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

      Do Not travel to:

      • The provinces of Central Papua (Papua Tengah) and Highland Papua (Papua Pegunungan) due to civil unrest.

      Country Summary: Terrorists continue plotting possible attacks in Indonesia. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting police stations, places of worship, hotels, bars, nightclubs, markets/shopping malls, and restaurants. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.

      Natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, or volcanic eruptions may result in disruptions to transportation, infrastructure, sanitation, and the availability of health services.

      Demonstrations occur frequently and have the potential to become violent.  Avoid demonstrations and crowds. 

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

      If you decide to travel to Indonesia:

      Central Papua and Highland Papua– Level 4: Do Not Travel

      In Central Papua and Highland Papua, violent demonstrations and conflict could result in injury or death to U.S. citizens. Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Armed separatists may kidnap foreign nationals.

      Due to the risks, the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Central Papua and Highland Papua because U.S. government employees working in Indonesia must obtain special authorization before traveling to those areas.

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Full Story

      North Korea - Level 4: Do Not Travel

      Tue, 29 Apr 2025

      Do not travel

      to North Korea due to wrongful detention and other risks.

      Do not travel to North Korea due to the continuing serious risk of arrest, long-term detention, and the threat of wrongful detention of U.S. citizens.

      Do not travel to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea for any reason.

      • U.S. passports cannot be used to travel to, in, or through the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK or North Korea) unless they are specially validated for such travel by the Secretary of State.
      • Special validations are granted only in very limited circumstances. Review the information on how to apply for the special validation.

      Because the U.S. government does not have diplomatic relations with North Korea, it cannot provide direct help to U.S. citizens in North Korea in emergencies.

      • Sweden serves as the U.S. protecting power in North Korea through its Embassy in Pyongyang and provides limited consular services to U.S. citizens. Additionally, the North Korean government has often delayed or denied Swedish officials access to U.S. citizens who are detained.
      • The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). This is due to the risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of North Korea.
      • For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.

      Full Story

      Papua New Guinea - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

      Tue, 29 Apr 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

      Reconsider travel to Papua New Guinea due to crime, civil unrest, and piracy. Exercise increased caution due to kidnapping, unexploded ordnance, inconsistent availability of healthcare services, and potential for natural disasters.  Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

      Do not travel to:

      • Central Bougainville, particularly areas near the Panguna mine, due to civil unrest.
      • The Highlands region, other than the towns of Mt. Hagen and Goroka, due to civil unrest.

      Country Summary:  Violent crime, including sexual assault, carjackings, home invasions, and armed robberies, is common. There have been reports of criminals attacking resorts popular with foreign tourists to steal goods and money. Tensions between communal or tribal groups may lead to civil unrest involving violence and can occur without warning. Police presence is limited outside of the capital, Port Moresby, and police may be unable to assist due to limited resources.

      The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens outside of Port Moresby due to limited transportation infrastructure. U.S. government employees must obtain authorization before traveling to certain areas, including the central part of Bougainville and the provinces of Southern Highlands, Western Highlands (excluding Mt. Hagen), Eastern Highlands (excluding Goroka), Hela, Enga, Jiwaka, and other areas of Papua New Guinea where one is unable to fly directly.

      Piracy is active in the waters surrounding Papua New Guinea. Travelers by boat should reconsider travel to the Bismarck and Solomon Seas along Papua New Guinea's north and eastern coasts. In 2021 and 2022, the Embassy was aware of at least three occasions in which sailboats operated by or carrying U.S. citizens were boarded by criminals. The criminals, who have been known to use physical violence, robbed the boats, and in one incident, severely injured the captain when he attempted to fight back.  

      Visit our website on International Maritime Piracy and Armed Robbery at Sea.

      Kidnapping for ransom or political influence occurs in Papua New Guinea, though foreign nationals are not frequently targeted. In February 2023, a foreign national was kidnapped. In late 2022, foreign nationals employed by an international company were kidnapped and held for several days.  

      Travelers should exercise increased caution when traveling in remote areas of Papua New Guinea due to the presence of unexploded ordnance (UXO) remaining from the Second World War. UXO is discovered infrequently throughout the country, often on smaller islands.

      Papua New Guinea has inconsistent availability of healthcare services.  Healthcare may be difficult to obtain outside of Port Moresby.  Pharmaceuticals may be scarce or unavailable.

      Papua New Guinea is subject to periodic seismic activity and is home to several active volcanoes. The country does experience regular volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis. U.S. citizens are advised to familiarize themselves with volcano updates, earthquake tracking, and tsunami warnings in Papua New Guinea. U.S. citizens should develop contingency plans in the event of an eruption or major earthquake.  

      Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Papua New Guinea.

      If you decide to travel to Papua New Guinea:

      • Do not use local taxis or buses, known as public motor vehicles or PMVs.
      • Travel with guides from a reputable tour company, particularly if you plan to hike.
      • Avoid walking or driving at night.
      • Avoid areas in the vicinity of active volcanoes.
      • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
      • Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
      • Do not touch unknown metal objects and avoid traveling off well-used roads, tracks, and paths due to risk of unexploded ordnance.
      • Bring a sufficient supply of over-the-counter and prescription medicines.
      • Avoid sailing around the waters of Papua New Guinea and review the Live Piracy Report published by the International Maritime Bureau.
      • If sailing, have functioning communication and emergency equipment, such as a satellite phone, VHF radio, and emergency position indicating radio beacons (EPIRB).
      • Review our crisis and disaster abroad webpage.
      • Review the CDC’s suggestions on preparing for natural disasters.
      • 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 Papua New Guinea.
      • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
      • Prepare a 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.

      Areas Near the Panguna Mine on the island of Bougainville – Level 4: Do Not Travel

      The Autonomous Bougainville Government has designated areas near the Panguna mine as a “no go zones" due to the risk of violence from civil unrest. Bougainville police lack the resources to respond to emergency calls.

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Do not travel to this area for any reason.

      The Highlands Region (excluding Mt. Hagen and Goroka) – Level 4: Do Not Travel

      There is a heightened risk of civil unrest from tribal violence throughout the region, including the provinces of Southern Highlands, Western Highlands, Eastern Highlands, Hela, Enga, and Jiwaka. The towns of Mt. Hagen (Western Highlands) and Goroka (Eastern Highlands) generally have a more stable police presence than other towns and villages across the Highlands provinces. Do not travel to this area for any reason.

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Full Story

      Burundi - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

      Tue, 29 Apr 2025

      Updated to reflect the end of ordered departure of eligible family members and authorized departure for non-emergency employees and updates to U.S. government employee movement restrictions.

      Reconsider travel to Burundi due to political violence, crime, and health. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

      Do Not Travel to:

      • The former Central Market located on Chaussee Prince Louis Rwagasore in Bujumbura due to the risk of violent crime.
      • Cibitoke and Bubanza provinces and Kibira National Park due to potential armed violence.

      Country Summary: The possibility for political violence exists throughout Burundi. Police and military checkpoints are common and can limit movement. Police may search private homes for weapons. The borders may close without notice.

      Violent crimes like assault, carjacking, home invasion, grenade attacks, and armed robbery are possible. Criminals may target foreigners and residents suspected of having large sums of cash. Local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to crimes.

      Medical services in Burundi fall well below U.S. standards, and there are no adequate trauma services in the country. Emergency medical and fire services are limited or non-existent in some areas of the country. Even relatively minor health problems may necessitate a medical evacuation at the traveler’s expense. Medical evacuation insurance valid for travel to Burundi is strongly recommended.

      Due to the risks, the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens throughout Burundi. U.S. Embassy staff are subject to restrictions when traveling in certain areas of Burundi and may be subject to other constraints as security conditions warrant. U.S. government employees working in Burundi are prohibited from travelling outside Bujumbura Mairie during hours of darkness (typically 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.).

      Due to the risks, the U.S. government may be unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the following areas:

      • The provinces of Bubanza.
      • Cibitoke and Kibira National Park (including the park’s southernmost part in Muramvya province).

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

      If you decide to travel to Burundi:    

      • 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 Burundi.
      • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
      • Bring a sufficient supply of over-the-counter and prescription medicines.
      • 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.
      • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States
      • Avoid areas where there are large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations, and exercise caution in the vicinity of any such gatherings.
      • Remain aware of your surroundings and be vigilant when traveling in unfamiliar areas or outside of cities and along border areas; take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.
      • Prepare contingency plans for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
      • Consider traveling in pairs and using convoys of multiple vehicles to mitigate the risks related to traveling outside of Bujumbura. Carry additional fuel, spare tires, and provisions. Include a map, navigation equipment, and first aid kit. Service stations are scarce in rural areas. Professional roadside assistance service is not available outside the capital.
      • Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter.

      The former Central Market located on Chaussee Prince Louis Rwagasore – Level 4: Do Not Travel

      Violent crimes, such as grenade attacks and armed robbery, can occur.

      The former Central Market located on Chaussee Prince Louis Rwagasore is off-limits to U.S. Embassy personnel at all times.

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Cibitoke and Bubanza provinces and Kibira National Park – Level 4: Do Not Travel

      Armed persons and groups exploit porous borders and forested areas between Burundi, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo for movement and activities. U.S. government employees working in Burundi are restricted from travel to the following areas without special permission: the provinces of Bubanza and Cibitoke and Kibira National Park (including the park’s southernmost part in Muramvya province).

      Due to travel restrictions on U.S. Embassy personnel, the U.S. government may be unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas.

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Full Story

      Solomon Islands - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Tue, 29 Apr 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with updated risk information.Exercise increased caution traveling to Solomon Islands due to risks to health, unexploded ordinance, crime and civil unrest.

      Mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever are widespread. Medical facilities and clinics outside of Honiara are under-resourced in terms of drugs and medical equipment.

      Unexploded ordinance (UXO) from World War II remains a significant hazard and may be present on land, in forests, and underwater locations. Many areas have been swept or cleared, however previously undetected UXO continue to be discovered on a regular basis. While some areas are much more dangerous than others, caution is advised, even in areas reported to be cleared. High-risk areas include:

      • Hell’s Point and the ridges behind Honiara
      • New Georgia group of islands
      • Russell Islands
      • Tulagi Island

      While petty crime is common in some parts of Solomon Islands, Honiara has a higher risk of petty crime, break-ins, robbery, and sexual assault, including incidents targeting foreigners. Travelers should remain vigilant, avoid displaying valuables in public, and be cautious in less populated or poorly lit areas. Other violent crimes are uncommon but can occur.

      Civil unrest can arise with little notice. Political developments, including Parliament sittings, elections, and times of political uncertainty, may lead to protests or demonstrations, which have the potential to turn violent. Avoid large gatherings and political events.

      If you decide to travel to Solomon Islands:

      Full Story

      Czechia - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Mon, 28 Apr 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

      Exercise normal precautions in the Czechia.

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

      If you decide to travel to the Czechia:

      Full Story

      Uganda - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

      Wed, 23 Apr 2025

      Updated with information on upcoming national elections and the “If you decide to travel” section.

      Reconsider travel to Uganda due to crime, terrorism, and laws targeting persons on the basis of sexual orientation.  Exercise increased caution due to potential security risks and the unpredictable nature of public demonstrations.  This includes demonstrations by political groups leading up to the January to February 2026 elections.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

      Country Summary: There remains a threat of terrorist attacks in Uganda.  Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

      Terrorist attacks have targeted:

      • Religious venues
      • Schools
      • Government buildings
      • Police stations
      • Transportation hubs
      • Areas visited by tourists.

      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. In 2023, ISIS-Central Africa attacked and claimed responsibility for killing two international tourists and a Ugandan driver within Queen Elizabeth National Park.

      Violent crime is a real danger in Uganda. It includes armed robbery, home invasion, and sexual assault.  Both visitors and residents face these threats. Crime can happen anytime.  It is more common in larger cities, including:

      • Kampala
      • Jinja
      • Entebbe
      • Karamoja region
      • Along Uganda’s western and northern borders

      Police struggle to respond to serious crime in most places due to limited resources.

      Laws Targeting Persons on the Basis of Sexual OrientationThe 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act (AHA) applies to both visitors and residents of Uganda.  The AHA increases the danger for persons who may be targeted on the basis of their sexual orientation, those seen as or perceived to be lesbian, gay, or bisexual, and those accused of “promoting homosexuality.”  They could face fines, imprisonment, or the death penalty and may also face harassment, violence, or attacks by vigilantes or mobs.  Assault and harassment cases linked to support for lesbian, gay, and bisexual persons have happened across the country.

      Public DemonstrationsProtests can occur with little to no warning.  They often rise around political issues and events, like elections.  Primary elections will happen in summer 2025.  National elections are set for January to February 2026.  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.

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

      If you decide to travel to Uganda

      • Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
      • Keep a low profile.
      • Be aware of your surroundings.
      • Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry, or smartphones.
      • Use caution when walking or driving at night.
      • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
      • Do not open your door for people at your hotel or residence unless you know who it is.
      • Stay alert in locations frequented by foreign tourists.
      • Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
      • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts.  It makes it easier to locate you in an emergency.
      • Be mindful that any public identification with or perception as being lesbian, gay, or bisexual, as either a member or supporter, could be grounds for prosecution, as well as violence.
      • Remember that even private, consensual same-sex relations are illegal.
      • Review the Country Security Report for Uganda.
      • 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.
      • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Full Story

      Morocco - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Mon, 21 Apr 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits. 

      Exercise increased caution in Morocco due to terrorism.

      Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Morocco. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning.  They target tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and local government facilities.

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

      If you decide to travel to Morocco:

      Full Story

      Kyrgyzstan - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Mon, 21 Apr 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with edits to the area of higher risk in the border region with Tajikistan.

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

      Exercise increased caution in:

      • The border region with Tajikistan.

      Read the country information page for additional information on travel to the Kyrgyz Republic.

      If you decide to travel to the Kyrgyz Republic:

      • Monitor local media for breaking events and 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.
      • ·Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and Alerts  from the U.S. Embassy to make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
      • Review the Crime and Safety Report for the Kyrgyz Republic.
      • 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.

      Border Region with Tajikistan – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Exercise increased caution to areas within approximately 30 kilometers of the border with Tajikistan.  The March 13, 2025, signing and subsequent ratifying of a bilateral agreement between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan have facilitated the resumption of cross-border movement, but the situation remains fluid.  As of March 2025, two checkpoints on the border are open for transit.  There are no travel restrictions for Americans crossing the border.  However, visitors to the Batken region (especially the Batken and Leilek districts) should exercise caution and remain vigilant due to a recent history of border clashes.

      U.S. government employees working in the Kyrgyz Republic are restricted from traveling to the Batken province without prior authorization from the U.S. Embassy in Bishkek. 

      Full Story

      Bangladesh - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

      Fri, 18 Apr 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

      Reconsider travel to Bangladesh due to civil unrest, crime, and terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.
      Level 4: Do Not Travel

      • The Khagrachari, Rangamati, and Bandarban Hill Tracts districts (collectively known as the Chittagong Hill Tracts) due to communal violence, crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and other security risks.

      Country Summary: Since summer 2024, civil unrest and violent clashes have largely subsided with the formation of the Interim Government.  Occasional protests continue with potential for violent clashes.  Conditions may change on short notice.  U.S. citizens are reminded to avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones, since they could turn violent with little or no warning.

      Travelers should be aware of petty crime, such as pickpocketing in crowded areas.  In addition, crimes such as muggings, burglaries, assaults, and illegal drug trafficking constitute most criminal activity in Bangladesh’s major cities, but there are no indications foreigners are targeted because of their nationality.  These crimes tend to be situational, based on time and location.

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

      Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Bangladesh are prohibited from non-essential travel within Dhaka outside of the diplomatic enclave.

      Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Bangladesh must obtain special authorization to travel outside of Dhaka. Authorization is not required for travel to Cox’s Bazar or Sylhet.

      The U.S. government may have limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Bangladesh, particularly outside of Dhaka, due to these travel restrictions, a lack of infrastructure, and limited host government emergency response resources.

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

      If you decide to travel to Bangladesh:

      • Avoid demonstrations and political gatherings; demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and quickly escalate into violence. 
      • Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust 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 receive alerts including updates on consular services and so it is easier to locate you in an emergency.
      • Review the Country Security Report for Bangladesh.
      • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
      • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Please 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.
      • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Chittagong Hill Tracts Region – Level 4:  Do Not TravelThe Khagrachari, Rangamati, and Bandarban Hill Tracts districts (collectively known as the Chittagong Hill Tracts) experience occasional communal violence, crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and other security risks.  Kidnappings have occurred in the region, including those motivated by domestic or familial disputes, and those targeting members of religious minorities.  Separatist organizations and political violence also pose additional threats to visitors to the region, and there have been instances of IED explosions and active shooting.  Prior approval from the Government of Bangladesh’s Ministry of Home Affairs Office of Public Safety is required if you plan to travel to these areas.  Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Bangladesh are prohibited from traveling to the region.  Do not travel to these areas for any reason.

      Full Story

      Burkina Faso - Level 4: Do Not Travel

      Wed, 16 Apr 2025

      Updated to reflect changes for travelers with dual nationality

      Do not travel to Burkina Faso for any reason due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.

      Country Summary: Terrorist organizations continue to plan and conduct terrorist activities throughout Burkina Faso.

      TerrorismTerrorists may attack anywhere with little or no warning and may utilize various tactics including the use of common, commercially available items or the use of kidnapping for ransom. Targets may include but are not limited to:

      • Hotels
      • Restaurants
      • Police stations
      • Customs offices
      • Areas at or near mining sites
      • Places of worship
      • Military posts
      • Schools

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

      The threat of kidnapping remains persistent throughout Burkina Faso, including in Ouagadougou and especially in the Sahel and East regions.

      State of EmergencyThe Transition Authorities of Burkina Faso have maintained a state of emergency in the following territories:

      • The entire Saheland East regions
      • The provinces of Kossi and Sourou (Boucle de Mouhoun region)
      • The province of Kenedougou (Hauts Bassins region)
      • The province of Loroum (North region)
      • The province of Koulpelogo (Center-East region)

      Due to the risks, the U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in most of the country. U.S. government employees working in Burkina Faso are prohibited from traveling to regions outside the capital due to security concerns.

      Due to a historically high crime rate, the U.S. Embassy discourages U.S. government personnel from nighttime travel to the Balkiui and Rayongo (also known as Dayongo) neighborhoods of Ouagadougou’s Arrondissement 11.

      For travelers with dual nationality, local authorities may not recognize your U.S. nationality if you are also a national of Burkina Faso. Read the dual-nationality-traveler page for additional information about traveling with a dual nationality.

      Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Burkina Faso.

      If you decide to travel to Burkina Faso:

      • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
      • Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
      • Take steps to lower your risk of becoming a victim of violence, including limiting trips to places frequented by tourists.
      • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
      • Review your personal security plans.
      • Remain aware of your surroundings and local events.
      • Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
      • 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 Burkina Faso.
      • 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.

      Full Story

      Serbia - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Fri, 11 Apr 2025

      Reissued with minor changes.

      Exercise increased caution in Serbia due to crime.

      Country Summary: Violence associated with organized crime and high-profile sporting events in Serbia is common.

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

      If you decide to travel to Serbia:   

      • Be aware of your surroundings.
      • Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
      • Do not answer your door at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.
      • Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
      • Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
      • Carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable) and leave the original in your hotel safe.
      • Provide your itinerary to a family member or friend.
      • Monitor local media.
      • 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 Serbia.
      • 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.  

      Full Story

      Colombia - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

      Tue, 08 Apr 2025

      Reconsider travel

      to Colombia due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Some areas have an increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

      Violent crime is common in many areas in Colombia. This includes murder, assault, and robbery. In some places, organized crime is rampant. This includes extortion, robbery, and kidnapping.

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

      Terrorists and criminal organizations in Colombia may attack with little or no warning and target: 

      • U.S. government facilities  
      • Local government facilities 
      • Tourist areas and attractions
      • Transportation centers 
      • Shopping malls and markets 
      • Military and police facilities 
      • Hotels  
      • Clubs  
      • Restaurants 
      • Airports 

      Political demonstrations are common throughout Colombia and can: 

      • Shut down roads and highways without notice or estimated reopening timelines. 
      • Lead to road closures that reduce access to public transportation. 
      • Interrupt travel within and between cities.  
      • Become violent and result in deaths and injuries. 

      Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Colombia are prohibited from: 

      • Going to Colombia’s land borders with neighboring countries without special authorization. 
      • Using motorcycles. 
      • Using street taxis or any public transportation that is not prearranged. 

      Do Not Travel to:

      • Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments due to crime and terrorism.
      • The Colombia-Venezuela border region due to crime, kidnapping, conflict between armed groups, and the risk of detention.

      Full Story

      Ghana - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Tue, 08 Apr 2025

      Updated to reflect threats against women travelers and increased risks in specific regions.

      Exercise increased caution in Ghana due to crime and violence against women travelers and lesbian, gay, and bisexual travelers.  Some areas of Ghana have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

      Reconsider Travel to:

      • The Upper East Region, North East Region, Upper West Region, and the western portion of the Savannah Region (all areas west of the N12 Highway) that shares a border with Burkina Faso and Cộte d’Ivoire due to civil unrest and crime.

      Country Summary: Violent crimes, such as carjacking, street mugging, assaults, and rape do occur.  These crimes often happen at night and in isolated locations.  Sexual assault, such as rape, is significantly underreported and remains a serious problem.  While domestic violence is criminal under Ghanian law, police rarely respond to reports of domestic violence.  

      • In urban areas and crowded markets
      • When traveling by private or public transportation after dark as criminal elements may use blockades to slow down and restrict movement of vehicles

      Ghanaian law contains prohibitions on “unnatural carnal knowledge” – generally interpreted as any kind of sexual intimacy – between persons of the same sex, though in practice, the law is largely used to target men.  Punishments can include fines and/or incarceration of up to three years.  Rhetoric and violence targeting individuals on the basis of sexual orientation have increased in recent years.  Individuals have reported safety incidents that include targeted assault, rape, mob attacks, and harassment due to their sexual orientation.

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

      If you decide to travel to Ghana:

      Areas Near the Northern Border in the Upper East Region, Upper West Region, and western area of the Savannah Region – Level 3:  Reconsider Travel

      U.S. citizens in Ghana should reconsider travel to the northern border areas near Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire due to civil unrest and crime.  Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Ghana must obtain special authorization to travel to the Upper West Region, the Upper East Region, the North East Region, and the western area of the Savannah Region.  The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas.  Be sure to read the Burkina Faso Travel Advisory here.

      Local police may lack the resources to respond effectively to more serious crimes.

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Full Story

      El Salvador - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Tue, 08 Apr 2025

      Updated due to change in travel advisory level to reflect changes in crime.

      Country Summary: Exercise normal precautions in El Salvador. Gang activity has decreased over the last three years. This has caused a drop in violent crimes and murders.

      U.S. government employees working in El Salvador are allowed to travel throughout the country during daylight hours. However, due to the risks, U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling between cities or departments at night.

      There are exceptions. U.S. government employees are allowed to travel at all hours between San Salvador and:

      • El Salvador’s international airport.
      • La Libertad department.

      U.S. government employees are prohibited from using public buses.

      State of Exception

      In March 2022, the Government of El Salvador declared a “State of Exception” in response to an increase in gang murders:

      • The State of Exception allows local authorities to arrest anyone they think is involved in gang activity.
      • It suspends several constitutional rights. This includes the normal protections of criminal procedure, like the right to a speedy or fair trial.
      • Tens of thousands of people are currently in prison under the State of Exception.
      • Several U.S. and other foreign citizens have been detained under the State of Exception. They remain in prison and have yet to face trial.

      The State of Exception is still in place.

      Read the country information page for additional information on travel to El Salvador.

      If you decide to travel to El Salvador: 

      • Always use major highways and roads.
      • Minimize travel outside of major cities at night.
      • El Salvador has zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol. You can be detained for having any level of alcohol while driving. Do not drink and drive.
      • Stay aware of your surroundings.
      • When possible, travel in pairs or in groups, especially for long trips and in rural places.
      • Avoid relying on online maps or applications. They might not accurately show local road conditions.
      • Do not hitchhike.
      • Ensure you have multiple forms of communication when traveling and the ability to charge your devices.
      • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
      • Stay alert when visiting banks or ATMs.
      • Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
      • Engage local guides certified by the national or local tourist authority when hiking in backcountry areas. 
      • Use caution when swimming near El Salvador’s beaches. Follow water condition warnings.
      • 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 El Salvador.
      • 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 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.

      Full Story

      Kuwait - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Tue, 08 Apr 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

      Exercise normal precautions in Kuwait.  Some areas have higher risks.  Read this whole Travel Advisory.

      • Exercise increased caution in the Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh area in Kuwait City because of crime.
      • Do not travel to the desert area near the border with Iraq because of bombs, shells, and landmines left over from the 1990 Gulf War.

      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 from political and military tensions in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Kuwait.  The notice advises U.S. operators to review current security and threat information and to report safety or security incidents.  For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration.  

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

      If you decide to travel to Kuwait:

      • 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 in places visited by large groups of people and travelers or tourists.
      • Keep travel documents up to date and easy to access.
      • Make back-up plans to leave the country.
      • Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get alerts from the embassy. It makes it easier for us to contact you in an emergency.
      • Follow the Department of State on Facebook  and X.
      • Read the Country Security Report for Kuwait.
      • Visit the CDC page 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.
      • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Desert Area North of the Mutla’a Ridge and Near the Border with Iraq – Level 4:  Do Not Travel

      Desert areas and some beaches north of the Mutla’a Ridge still have unexploded bombs, shells, and landmines left over from the 1990 Gulf War.  Avoid areas that are “off the beaten path” and do not touch or move objects in that area.  They could explode.  These locations are not clearly marked, or the signs might be difficult to understand.  Do not travel to these areas for any reason.

      Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh Neighborhoods – Level 2:  Exercise Increased Caution

      The Kuwaiti police report that the neighborhood of Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh near the Kuwait International Airport is a high-crime area.

      Full Story

      The Bahamas - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Mon, 31 Mar 2025

      Updated to reflect crime, swimming-related risks, and information on traveling with firearms and ammunition.

      Exercise increased caution due to crime.

      Country Summary: Violent crime—like armed robberies, burglaries, and sexual assaults—can occur anywhere in The Bahamas.

      Most crime occurs in Nassau and Freeport on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands. Stay alert in the "Over the Hill" area in Nassau, south of Shirley Street, where gangs have killed residents.

      Stay alert in vacation rental properties, especially where private security is not present.

      Jet skis and boating

      • Boating is not well regulated. Injuries and deaths have occurred.
      • Sexual assaults by jet ski operators have also been reported.
      • Due to the risks, U.S. government employees are prohibited from using jet skis and personal watercraft rented from independent operators on New Providence and Paradise islands. 
      • Watercraft may not be safe, and some operators are not licensed or insured.
      • Watercraft operators sometimes ignore weather forecasts. Always follow local weather and marine alerts. 

      Beach safety

      • Never swim alone and beware of jet skis or other watercraft operating close to shore. 
      • Sexual assaults have occurred on and near downtown Nassau beaches. Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert in public restrooms.
      • Be aware of your own fitness and swimming capabilities.  
      • If you are new to snorkeling, understand the risks. Swimmers and snorkelers have died after overestimating their physical fitness or health.  
      • Stay alert for sharks. Shark attacks have led to serious injuries and death. 
      • Be aware of weather and water conditions and follow local warnings.

      Weapons and ammunition

      Firearms and ammunition are illegal—including small quantities brought by mistake in carry-on bags or luggage. Police strictly enforce these laws—even at the airport when travelers are leaving.  

      Travelers with firearms or ammunition can face arrest, jail time, and fines.  

      Authorities have detained U.S. citizens for several days or more after finding firearms or ammunition, preventing them from leaving.

      Read the country information page for additional information on travel to The Bahamas. 

      If you decide to travel to The Bahamas:  

      • Do not answer your door at your hotel or residence unless you know who it is.
      • Lock doors and windows and use other security features, especially on balcony doors.
      • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
      • Check your luggage and hand baggage carefully for bullets or firearms before leaving the United States.  Do not bring these items to The Bahamas.  
      • 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 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.

      Full Story

      Yemen - Level 4: Do Not Travel

      Mon, 31 Mar 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits related to terrorism and security.

      Do not travel to Yemen due to terrorism, civil unrest, crime, health risks, kidnapping, armed conflict, and landmines.

      Country Summary: 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. U.S. citizens should not travel to Yemen for any reason.

      The Department of State has re-designated Ansarallah (commonly referred to as the Houthis) as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. Other terrorist groups, like Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) and Islamic State affiliates, also plan and carry out attacks in Yemen. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting public sites, transportation hubs, markets, as well as government buildings and facilities. There is also a risk of kidnapping/detention by terrorists, criminals, and other groups or individuals. Foreign workers and employees may be targeted.

      A civil war continues in Yemen. Even though violence has decreased since a truce in April 2022, instability and fighting are still common, especially along 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.

      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. Landmines are found throughout Yemen.

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

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

      U.S. citizens, especially dual U.S.-Yemeni citizens, are at high risk of kidnapping and detention in Yemen. U.S. citizens, particularly young people, may be kidnapped for forced marriage. These often involve family members in the United States and/or Yemen. The Houthis, who control Sana’a, have detained U.S. citizens, including those with dual citizenship. U.S. citizens have faced difficulty and delays when trying to leave 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. Do not travel to Socotra or any part of Yemen.

      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.

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

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

      If, despite this Travel Advisory, you decide to travel to Yemen:

      • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
      • Bring enough supply of over-the-counter and prescription medicines.
      • Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
      • Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or power of attorney.
      • Make 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. 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.
      • Stay aware of your surroundings.
      • Consider hiring a professional security organization.
      • Develop a communication plan with family, or your employer or host organization (if you are traveling on business). This is so that they can monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. Specify how you’ll confirm you’re safe (texts, calls, etc.), how often, and who you’ll contact first to share the information.
      • Appoint one family member to serve as the point of contact if you are taken hostage or detained. Set up a proof-of-life protocol. If you become a hostage, that person will know what questions to ask and answers to expect. This will help them be sure that you are alive (and to rule out a hoax).
      • Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them.
      • 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.
      • Follow the Department of State on Facebook  and X/Twitter. 
      • Review the Country Security Report for Yemen.
      • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
      • Prepare a 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.

      Full Story

      Iran - Level 4: Do Not Travel

      Mon, 31 Mar 2025

      Updated to reflect changes to the “If you decide to travel to Iran” section, add warnings about Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy, and updated information on detention risks.

      Do not travel to Iran due to the risk of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, arbitrary arrest of U.S. citizens, and wrongful detention.

      Country Summary: Do not travel to Iran for any reason. U.S. citizens in Iran face serious dangers. They have been kidnapped and wrongfully arrested. Some have been held for years on false charges, subjected to psychological torture, and even sentenced to death. 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.  

      The Department of State has determined that U.S. nationals traveling to Iran are at significant risk of wrongful detention.  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 individuals 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 authorities routinely delay consular access to detained U.S. nationals.  In particular, Iranian authorities consistently deny consular access to dual U.S.-Iranian nationals.

      Terrorism

      Violent extremist groups, including U.S. government-designated terrorist organizations, operate in Iran.  ISIS and related groups have taken responsibility for bombings and other attacks in the country.  The risk of terrorism and deadly harm to bystanders continues.

      Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

      Companies offering surrogacy services in Iran are grossly misrepresenting the security situation in Iran and 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; if a child born overseas to a surrogate is not genetically or gestationally related to a U.S. citizen parent or the spouse of a U.S. citizen, the child will not automatically acquire U.S. citizenship at birth and will not be able to obtain a U.S. passport to leave Iran.

      Aviation Safety Oversight

      The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) that bans U.S. flights to, from, or through Iran’s airspace.  This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or near Iran.   U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices for more information.

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

      If you decide to travel to Iran:

      • Review your personal security plan and visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
      • Consider the risks involved in having dual U.S.-Iranian nationality.
      • Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or power of attorney.
      • Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your loved ones to access them.
      • Establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones.  This is 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 (and to rule out a hoax).
      • 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.
      • Check local media for breaking events.  Be prepared to adjust your plans.
      • Have a plan for departing Iran that does not rely on U.S. government help.
      • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts from the Department. It makes it easier to locate you in an emergency.
      • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
      • Prepare a backup plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

      Full Story

      Andorra - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Tue, 25 Mar 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

      Exercise normal precautions when traveling to Andorra.

      Country Summary: Travelers can enter Andorra only via Spain and France.

      Read the country information page for more information on travel to Andorra.

      If you decide to travel to Andorra:

      Full Story

      Guinea-Bissau - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

      Mon, 24 Mar 2025

      Updated to reflect addition of health risk indicator and update to “If you decide to travel” section.

      Reconsider travel to Guinea-Bissau due to civil unrest, crime, and health.

      Country Summary: The country has had periods of political instability for decades. Past demonstrations have escalated into violence. Access to health care is limited.

      Crime is common in Guinea-Bissau:

      • Aggressive vendors, panhandlers, and criminals target foreigners at the Bissau airport.
      • Criminals also target crowded areas, especially Bandim Market in the capital’s center.
      • Local police do not have the resources to respond quickly to serious crimes.
      • The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens. There is no U.S. Embassy in Guinea-Bissau.

      Health care in Guinea-Bissau is limited. Facilities may not have adequate supplies of basic medications, especially outside of larger cities. It is highly recommended to have medical evacuation insurance for travel to Guinea-Bissau. Travelers should carry a supply of any needed prescription medicines, along with copies of their prescriptions and include the generic names of medicines, as well as a supply of over-the-counter medications (such as anti-diarrheals and pain medication).

      Read the country information page for more information on travel to Guinea-Bissau.

      If you decide to travel to Guinea-Bissau:

      • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
      • Stay aware of your surroundings.
      • Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
      • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
      • Review the Country Security Report for Guinea-Bissau
      • Use caution when walking or driving at night. Be sure to always wear your seatbelt.
      • Only drink bottled water.
      • Avoid risky behavior, including swimming in fresh bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and ponds, which can be contaminated with bacteria and/or parasites.
      • Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
      • 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.
      • Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
      • 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.
      • Prepare a backup plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

      Full Story

      Timor-Leste - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Fri, 21 Mar 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits. Exercise increased caution in Timor-Leste due to crime and civil unrest.

      Country Summary: Timor-Leste has seen isolated instances of police responding to protests with force and the use of tear gas.

      Stone throwing attacks on vehicles can occur during gang conflicts and periods of unrest.  Sex-based violence is high in Timor-Leste and sexual harassment is fairly common.

      Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Timor-Leste.

      If you decide to travel to Timor-Leste:

      • Keep a low profile.
      • Be aware of your surroundings.
      • Use caution when walking or driving at night.
      • Avoid demonstrations or crowds.
      • Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
      • Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation. 
      • 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 Timor-Leste.
      • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.   
      • We highly recommend you buy insurance before you travel.  Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

      Full Story

      Niger - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

      Fri, 21 Mar 2025

      Updated to reflect the addition of a risk indicator for health and additional information about travel to border areas.

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

      Do Not Travel to the Malian border area, Diffa region, northern Agadez, and the Lake Chad region due to terrorism. 

      Country Summary: Violent crimes, such as armed robbery, are common.

      Demonstrations, while generally peaceful, may become violent at any time.  They can lead to civil unrest.

      Terrorist groups continue planning kidnappings and possible attacks in Niger. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. They target:

      • Tourist destinations visited by foreigners
      • Foreign and local government facilities
      • Areas bordering Mali, Libya, Burkina Faso, and throughout northern Niger

      Access to medical care in Niger is limited.  Facilities may not have adequate supplies of basic medications, especially outside of larger cities.  It is highly recommended to have medical evacuation insurance for travel to Niger.

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

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

      If you decide to travel to Niger:

      • We recommend you stay in hotels with armed Nigerien security presence.
      • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
      • Use caution when walking or driving at night.
      • Keep a low profile.
      • Stay aware of your surroundings.
      • Check local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
      • Stay alert in locations visited by foreigners.
      • Make backup plans to leave the country.  There are limited means to leave the country.
      • Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
      • Keep travel documents up-to-date and easily accessible.
      • Bring enough supplies of over the counter and prescription medicines to last your entire stay in Niger.
      • 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.  Niger is high risk for Malaria.
      • 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.
      • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
      • Review the Country Security Report for Niger.
      • 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.

      Border Regions – Level 4: Do Not Travel

      Do not travel to the Malian border area, Diffa region, northern Agadez, and the Lake Chad region.  Do not travel to these areas for any reason.  The U.S. Embassy requires U.S. government personnel working in Niger to use armed escorts and armored vehicles when traveling to these areas, for both official and personal travel.  Terrorist groups have crossed the border and launched multiple deadly attacks on Nigerien security forces.

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Full Story

      Brunei - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Wed, 19 Mar 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

      Exercise normal precautions in Brunei.

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

      If you decide to travel to Brunei:

      Full Story

      Chad - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

      Tue, 18 Mar 2025

      Updated to reflect additional information about violent crime and travel to border areas.

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

      Do Not Travel to:

      • Lake Chad region due to terrorism.
      • Borders with Cameroon, Central African Republic, Libya, Niger, Nigeria, and Sudan due to armed conflict and minefields

      Country Summary: Violent crime such as armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, rape, homicide, and muggings, occur in Chad.

      Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting foreigners, local security forces, and civilians.

      Demonstrations occur sporadically and have on occasion resulted in violence or use of tear gas by authorities. Outside of N’Djamena, the U.S. Government has extremely limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Chad.  Due to risks, U.S. Government employees working in Chad must obtain special authorization to travel outside of the capital.Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Chad.

      If you decide to travel to Chad:

      • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
      • Check local media for breaking events.  Be prepared to adjust your plans.
      • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
      • Be aware of your surroundings.
      • Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
      • Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
      • Develop a communication plan with family or your employer or host organization. This is 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 Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
      • 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 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.

      Lake Chad Region – Level 4: Do Not Travel

      Terrorists and armed non-governmental groups may attack with little or no warning. They target foreigners, local security forces, and civilians. Terrorists and armed non-governmental groups can easily cross borders. Government security forces may restrict civilian movement and engage in military operations with limited warning. Do not travel to this area for any reason.

      Outside of N’Djamena, the U.S. Government has extremely limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Chad including the Lake Chad Basin.

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Borders of Cameroon, Central African Republic, Libya, Niger, Nigeria, and Sudan – Level 4:  Do Not Travel

      Armed non-governmental groups operate along Chad’s borders with Cameroon, Central African Republic, Niger, Nigeria, Sudan, and in Libya and northern Chad.  Do not travel to this area for any reason.

      There are unmapped and undocumented minefields along the borders with both Libya and Sudan.

      Outside of N’Djamena, the U.S. Government has extremely limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Chad, particularly in border areas.

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Full Story

      Kenya - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Mon, 17 Mar 2025

      Updated to include a risk indicator for health and to reflect additional safety and security information.

      Do Not Travel to:

      • Kenya-Somalia border counties (Garissa, Wajir, Mandera), Tana River County, and coastal areas north of Malindi due to terrorism and kidnapping;
      • West Pokot and western Turkana County due to banditry;
      • Parts of Marsabit and Turkana Counties within 30 miles (50 kilometers) of the Ethiopian border due to cross-border incursions.

      Reconsider Travel to:

      • The Nairobi neighborhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera due to crime and kidnapping.

      Country Summary:  Violent crime, such as armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping, can occur at any time. Local police often lack the capability to respond effectively to serious crimes and terrorist attacks.  Emergency medical and fire services are limited. Avoid traveling after dark in Kenya due to crime and poor traffic safety.

      CrimeMotorycle crimes are common, where thieves grab items from victims and are able to quickly flee the scene. Crimes typically occur in crowded areas or when people are distracted. Police have limited ability to respond to these crimes.  Handbags, mobile phones, and other easy-to-reach valuables are the most stolen items.

      TerrorismTerrorist attacks have occurred with little or no warning. They have targeted:

      • Kenyan and foreign government buildings,
      • Tourist locations,
      • Transportation hubs,
      • Hotels and resorts,
      • Markets and shopping malls, and
      • Places of worship.

      Terrorist acts have included armed assaults, suicide operations, bomb or grenade attacks, and kidnappings.

      DemonstrationsDemonstrations, strikes, and other political and economic protests are common. They often block key intersections or highways, resulting in widespread traffic jams. Violence during demonstrations has occurred across the country. This includes rock-throwing and police using deadly force. Political violence is most common in western Kenya and Nairobi.

      Health Access to medical care in Kenya is limited and medical facilities may not have adequate supply of medicine, especially outside large cities. Medical evacuation insurance valid for travel to Kenya is strongly recommended. Hospitals usually require payment before treatment. 

      Unlicensed facilities and bribesSome schools and behavior modification facilities in Kenya operate without licensing and oversight. Reports of U.S. citizens being held against their will or being physically abused in these facilities are common. The embassy has also received numerous reports from young adults whose U.S. passports were taken away by their families.

      The embassy frequently receives complaints from U.S. citizens about being stopped by police or immigration or customs officials asking for bribes.

      Property confiscationsProperty disputes are common and can turn violent. Some U.S. citizens have had their property confiscated or been threatened.

      Read the country information page for additional information about travel to Kenya.

      If you decide to travel to Kenya:

      • Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.
      • Do not resist any robbery attempt.
      • Check local media for breaking events and prepare to adjust your plans.
      • Make backup plans to leave the country. Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and entry stamp. Keep original documents in a secure location.
      • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
      • Review the Country Security Report for Kenya.
      • 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.

      Specified Areas - Level 4: Do Not TravelDue to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Kenya are prohibited from traveling to:.

      Kenya-Somalia Border Counties:

      • Mandera due to kidnapping and terrorism.
      • Wajir due to kidnapping and terrorism.
      • Garissa due to kidnapping and terrorism.

      Coastal Areas Countries:

      • Tana River (except Tsavo National Park) due to kidnapping and terrorism.
      • Lamu county due to kidnapping and terrorism.
      • Kilifi north of Malindi due to kidnapping and terrorism.

      Parts of north and northwestern Kenya: 

      • West Pokot County due to banditry
      • Western Turkana County south of Lodwar due to banditry
      • Parts of Marsabit and Turkana Counties within 30 miles (50 kilometers) of the Ethiopian border due to cross-border incursions

      Do not travel to these areas for any reason.

      Specified Areas - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

      Nairobi neighborhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera:

      • Crime and kidnappings occur in the Eastleigh and Kibera neighborhoods.  Violent crime, such as armed carjacking, mugging, and home invasion, can occur at any time.  Street crime can involve multiple armed assailants.  Most roads in these areas are heavily congested and overcrowded.  Local police often lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents.

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Full Story

      Georgia - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Thu, 13 Mar 2025

      Last Update: Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

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

      Do Not Travel To:

      • The Russian-occupied Georgian regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia due to risk of crime, civil unrest, and landmines.

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

      If you decide to travel to Georgia:

      South Ossetia and Abkhazia – Level 4: Do Not Travel

      Russian troops and border guards occupy both South Ossetia and Abkhazia regions.  The precise locations of administrative boundary lines are difficult to identify.  Entering these areas could lead to arrest, imprisonment, or a fine. Violent attacks and criminal incidents occur in the region.  Landmines are a danger to travelers near the boundary lines of both territories.

      Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Georgia are prohibited from traveling to South Ossetia and Abkhazia.  The U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in South Ossetia and Abkhazia.  Do not travel to these areas for any reason.

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Full Story

      Samoa - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Mon, 10 Mar 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

      Exercise normal precautions in Samoa.

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

      If you decide to travel to Samoa:

      Full Story

      South Sudan - Level 4: Do Not Travel

      Sat, 08 Mar 2025

      Updated to reflect ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel due to continued security threats in South Sudan.

      Do not travel to South Sudan due to crime, kidnapping, and armed conflict.

      Country Summary: Due to the risks in the country, on March 08, 2025, the Department of State ordered the departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees from South Sudan.

      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 and often lead to violence.

      Violent crime, such as carjackings, shootings, ambushes, assaults, robberies, and kidnappings are common throughout South Sudan, including Juba. Foreign nationals have been the victims of rape, sexual assault, armed robberies, and other violent crimes.

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

      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. They must use armored vehicles for nearly all movements, and official travel outside Juba is limited. Due to the critical crime threat in Juba, walking is also restricted; when allowed, it is limited to a small area in the immediate vicinity of the Embassy and during daylight hours only. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of South Sudan. 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 South Sudan.

      If you decide to travel to South Sudan:

      • Exercise extreme care in all parts of the country, including Juba. Travel outside of Juba with a minimum of two vehicles along with appropriate recovery and medical equipment in case of mechanical failure or other emergency.
      • Avoid travel along border areas.
      • Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
      • Be aware that photography in public is strictly controlled, and you are required to obtain authorization from the Ministry of Information before taking any photographs or video in public – including while inside a vehicle.
      • Check local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
      • 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.
      • 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 your personal security plan and visit our page on travel to high risk areas.
      • 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. 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
      • Establish your own personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization, or consider consulting with a professional security organization. Your plan should include sheltering in place, maintaining outside communication, and a personal evacuation plan via commercial means.
      • Develop a communication plan with family or your employer or host organization (if you are traveling on business). This is 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.
      • Choose one family member to serve as the point of contact. They will communicate with kidnappers/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).
      • 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 that could be considered controversial or provocative by local groups.
      • Leave your expensive/sentimental belongings behind.
      • Review the Country Security Report for South Sudan.
      • U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have 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.

      Full Story

      Equatorial Guinea - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Fri, 07 Mar 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

      Exercise increased caution in Equatorial Guinea due to crime and health.

      Country Summary: Robbery remains a concern throughout Equatorial Guinea. Local police may lack the resources to respond effectively to more serious crimes. Police and military checkpoints are common and can restrict movement. Borders may close without notice. Always travel with your passport and valid visa.

      Health: Medical services in Equatorial Guinea are limited:

      • There are no adequate trauma services.
      • Ambulance services are not available.
      • Even minor health issues may require medical evacuation at the traveler’s expense.
      • We strongly recommend medical evacuation insurance for travel to Equatorial Guinea.
      • Travel safety: Avoid traveling off-road, in isolated areas, or in places with known dangers like mudslides, flooding, or severe weather.
      • Because of limited phone coverage, rough terrain, and the risk of vehicle breakdowns, U.S. citizens should travel in a group of at least two vehicles when going to remote areas.
      • Read the Country Information Page for additional information on travel to Equatorial Guinea.
      • If you decide to travel to Equatorial Guinea:
      • 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.
      • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
      • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
      • Stay alert in tourist spots and when visiting banks or ATMs.
      • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
      • Bring enough over the counter and prescription medicines.
      • Malaria, a parasite transmitted by mosquitoes, is common throughout Equatorial Guinea. Even short-term travelers are strongly recommended to take malaria prophylactic medication and use topical insect repellants.
      • Get comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
      • 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

      Pakistan - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

      Fri, 07 Mar 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

      Reconsider travel to Pakistan due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict.  Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

      Do Not Travel to: 

      • Balochistan Province and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Province, which include the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), due to terrorism.
      • The immediate vicinity of the India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict.

      Country Summary: Violent extremist groups continue to plot attacks in Pakistan.  Terrorist attacks are frequent in Balochistan Province and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province (KP), which include the former FATA.  Large-scale terrorist attacks have resulted in numerous casualties, and small-scale attacks are frequent.  Terrorism and ongoing violence by extremist elements have led to indiscriminate attacks on civilian, as well as local military and police targets.  Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, military installations, airports, universities, tourist attractions, schools, hospitals, places of worship, and government facilities.  Terrorists have targeted U.S. diplomats and diplomatic facilities in the past. 

      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 and for posting content on social media perceived as critical of the Pakistani government, military, or officials.  Internet and mobile phone service outages are common, especially during protests.  

      Pakistan’s security environment remains fluid, sometimes changing with little or no notice.  There are greater security resources and infrastructure in the major cities, particularly Islamabad, and security forces in these areas may be more readily able to respond to an emergency compared to other areas of the country.

      The government of Pakistan restricts the travel of U.S. government personnel working in Pakistan.  The U.S. government has limited ability to 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.  Due to the risks, U.S. government personnel working in Pakistan must obtain special authorization to travel to most areas outside of Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi.  

      The U.S. Embassy and Consulates require U.S. government personnel to use armed escorts and armored vehicles when traveling in certain parts of the country, both for official and personal travel.  Additional restrictions on movements can occur suddenly and at any time, depending on local circumstances and security conditions.  U.S. government personnel on assignment in Pakistan are prohibited from attending most large gatherings.

      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. 

      The U.S. Consulate General in Peshawar does not provide consular services.  Services for U.S. citizens are available from the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, the U.S. Consulate General in Karachi, and the U.S. Consulate General in Lahore.

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

      If you decide to travel to Pakistan:      

      • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. 
      • Check local media for breaking events. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
      • Vary your travel routes and timing. 
      • Stay aware of your surroundings, particularly around public markets, restaurants, police installations, places of worship, and government and military institutions.
      • Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
      • Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
      • Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
      • Get comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation. Visit the CDC Travelers Health Page.
      • Review local laws and conditions before traveling.
      • 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, 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.
      • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
      • Review the Country Security Report for Pakistan.
      • 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. 

      Balochistan Province – Level 4: Do Not Travel 

      Do not travel to Balochistan Province for any reason.  Extremist groups, including an active separatist movement, have conducted deadly terrorist attacks against civilians, religious minorities, government offices, and security forces.

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.  

      Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP)-Province, including the former FATA – Level 4: Do Not Travel

      Do not travel to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, which includes the former FATA, for any reason.  Active terrorist and insurgent groups routinely conduct attacks against civilians, non-governmental organizations, government offices, and security forces.  These groups historically have targeted both government officials and civilians.  Assassination and kidnapping attempts are common, including the targeting of polio eradication teams and Government of Pakistan security service (police and military) personnel.

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.  

      Vicinity of Line of Control – Level 4: Do Not Travel 

      Do not travel to the India-Pakistan border, including areas along the Line of Control for any reason.  Militant groups are known to operate in the area. India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on their respective sides of the border.  The only official Pakistan-India border crossing point for persons who are not citizens of India or Pakistan is in the Province of Punjab between Wagah, Pakistan, and Atari, India.  Travelers are advised to confirm the status of the border crossing prior to commencing travel.  An Indian visa is required to enter India, and no visa services are available at the border.

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.  

      Full Story

      Djibouti - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Thu, 06 Mar 2025

      Updated to remove Crime indicator and to include area-specific Level 3 advisory for the border with Eritrea.

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

      Reconsider travel to:

      • Areas bordering Eritrea due to border tensions

      Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. Terrorists target public areas including:

      • Tourist locations
      • Transportation centers (airports)
      • Government buildings
      • Markets and shopping malls
      • Hotels, clubs, and restaurants
      • Places of worship and schools
      • Parks and public areas
      • Major sporting and cultural events
      • Hospitals

      Read the Country Information Page for more information on travel to Djibouti.

      If you decide to travel to Djibouti:

      • Stay aware of your surroundings.
      • Check local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
      • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts from the U.S. Embassy. It makes it easier to locate you in an emergency.
      • Review the Country Security Report for Djibouti.
      • 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 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 with Eritrea - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

      U.S. citizens should reconsider travel within 10 miles of the border with Eritrea in the Tadjoura and Obock regions due to government of Djibouti restrictions.

      The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the region. U.S. government employees are prohibited from travelling after dark anywhere within 10 miles of the Eritrean border region.

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Full Story

      Turks and Caicos Islands - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Tue, 04 Mar 2025

      Updated to reflect information on traveling with firearms and ammunition.

      Exercise increased caution in the Turks and Caicos Islands due to crime. 

      Country Summary: Most crime occurs in Providenciales. Police may have limited investigatory resources. U.S. Embassy Nassau, located in The Bahamas, provides consular services (including assistance to victims of crime) for U.S. citizens in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

      Firearms and ammunition, including single bullets brought by mistake in carry-on bags or luggage, are illegal. Police strictly enforce these laws, even at the airport when travelers are leaving. Travelers face arrest, jail time, and heavy fines. Some U.S. citizens have been detained and unable to depart for several weeks or more after being found with bullets in their luggage. Offenders can face 12 years or more in prison. Though the law allows for some exceptions and discretion, the Department of State cannot guarantee your release.

      Read the country information page for additional information on travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands.

      If you decide to travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands:

      • Check your luggage and hand baggage carefully for bullets or firearms before leaving the United States. Do not bring these items to the Turks and Caicos Islands. 
      • Avoid walking alone and at night.
      • Do not answer your door at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.
      • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
      • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
      • 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.

      Full Story

      Portugal - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Mon, 03 Mar 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

      Exercise normal precautions in Portugal.

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

      If you decide to travel to Portugal:  

      Full Story

      Turkmenistan - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Fri, 28 Feb 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with no changes.

      Exercise normal precautions in Turkmenistan.

      Please read the country information page for additional information on travel to Turkmenistan.

      If you decide to travel to Turkmenistan:

      Full Story

      Norway - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Mon, 03 Feb 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits

      Exercise normal precautions in Norway.

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

      If you decide to travel to Norway:

      Full Story

      Mongolia - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Wed, 22 Jan 2025

      Reissued after periodic review without changes.

      Exercise normal precautions in Mongolia.

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

      If you travel to Mongolia, you should:

      Full Story

      Federated States of Micronesia - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Wed, 22 Jan 2025

      Reissued after periodic review without changes.

      Exercise normal precautions in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM).

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

      If you decide to travel to the FSM:

      • Monitor available local news reports and be prepared to adjust your plans. The FSM has a limited media environment, so breaking news may only be available via social media or word of mouth.
      • Visit the FSM government website if appropriate for non-health conditions.
      • Visit the website for the Department of Health and Social Affairs for the latest information from the FSM Government on current public health concerns.
      • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
      • 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/Twitter.
      • Review the Country Security Report for the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM)
      • 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.

      Full Story

      Chile - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Thu, 16 Jan 2025

      Exercise increased caution in Chile due to crime and civil unrest.

      Country Summary: Street crime (e.g., muggings, pick-pocketing, theft) is common in Chile. Rates of violent crime, such as assaults, homicide, carjackings, and residential break-ins, are increasing.

      Large-scale demonstrations periodically occur in Santiago and other cities in Chile. Demonstrations can take place with little or no notice, and often result in disruptions to transportation, including public bus and Santiago metro services.Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Chile.

      If you decide to travel to Chile:

      • Do not leave luggage unattended, even in locked vehicles.
      • Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable).  Keep original documents in a secure location.
      • Avoid demonstrations.
      • Follow the instructions of local authorities including movement restrictions and obey all curfews.
      • Find a safe location and shelter in place if in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
      • Review the Country Security Report for Chile.
      • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
      • Follow the U.S. Embassy and Department of State on Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter.
      • 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.

      Full Story

      French Guiana - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Thu, 16 Jan 2025

      Exercise normal precautions in French Guiana.

      Read the country information page for additional information on travel to French Guiana.

      If you decide to travel to French Guiana:

      Full Story

      North Macedonia - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Tue, 14 Jan 2025

      Read the country information page for additional information on travel to North Macedonia.

      If you decide to travel to North Macedonia: 

      Full Story

      Cyprus - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Mon, 13 Jan 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits

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

      Country Summary: Do not attempt to enter the United Nations buffer zone at any place other than a designated crossing point. Police and UN peacekeeping forces strictly enforce this restriction.

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

      If you decide to travel to Cyprus:

      Turkish Cypriot-Administered Area – Exercise increased caution

      • The U.S. Embassy in Nicosia has limited ability to assist U.S. citizens in this area.
      • Human rights reports show that central prison and police detention facilities in this area 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. The northern part of Cyprus, administered by Turkish Cypriots, 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 two 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 via Ercan Airport or by a seaport in the north to be a legal entrance or departure to Cyprus. U.S. citizens who depart the island from Ercan could have difficulty returning to the Republic of Cyprus in the future.
      • You cannot receive a residency permit from the Republic of Cyprus to reside 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 might be subsequently denied entry into the Republic of Cyprus.
      • The U.S. Embassy has limited ability to help U.S. citizens in need of assistance in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots as the government of the Republic of Cyprus does not control the area. Travelers should factor this consideration into their activities in this area.

      Full Story

      Afghanistan - Level 4: Do Not Travel

      Mon, 13 Jan 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with updates to reflect the security environment, immigration information, and availability of medical care.

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

      Country Summary: The U.S. Embassy in Kabul suspended operations in 2021. The U.S. government is not able to provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Afghanistan.

      Multiple terrorist groups are active in Afghanistan and U.S. citizens are targets of kidnapping and hostage-taking. The Taliban have harassed and detained aid and humanitarian workers. The activities of foreigners may be viewed with suspicion, and reasons for detention may be unclear. Even if you are registered with the appropriate authorities to conduct business, the risk of detention is high.

      The Department has determined there is a risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals in Afghanistan. Additionally, Afghan-U.S. citizens and U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) who previously supported the United States (for example, as an interpreter) in Afghanistan may be targeted for detention.

      The Taliban do not regularly permit the United States to conduct welfare checks on U.S. citizens in detention, including by phone. Detention can be lengthy. While in detention, U.S. citizens have limited or no access to medical attention and may be subject to physical abuse.

      U.S. citizens should not travel to Afghanistan for any reason, including to accompany eligible family members for relocation. U.S. citizens or LPRs do not have to be physically present in Afghanistan for their qualifying family members to receive such assistance. For further information on how to assist your family members with the immigrant visa application process or to request relocation assistance for family, please refer to our website.

      U.S. citizens in Afghanistan are urged to depart immediately via commercial means if possible. U.S. citizens who are seeking U.S. government assistance to depart should email complete biographic details and contact information (email and phone number), as well as U.S. passport number, to AfghanistanACS@state.gov.

      Basic medical care is available in major Afghan cities such as Kabul but is limited in rural areas.

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

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

      • Review your personal security plans.
      • Be aware of your surroundings and local security developments at all times.
      • Keep a low profile.
      • Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
      • Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
      • Notify a trusted person of your travel and movement plans.
      • Make contingency plans to leave when it is safe to do so that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
      • 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.
      • Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them.
      • 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.

      Full Story

      New Zealand - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

      Fri, 03 Jan 2025

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.    

      Exercise normal precautions in New Zealand.

      Read the country information page for additional information on travel to New Zealand.

      If you decide to travel to New Zealand:

      Full Story

      Albania - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

      Tue, 31 Dec 2024

      Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

      Exercise increased caution in Albania due to crime.

      Country Summary: Law enforcement’s ability to protect and assist travelers is limited in some areas, especially in remote regions. There has been targeted violence associated with illicit drug networks and organized crime countrywide. Travelers should remain aware of their surroundings and the extent of police and emergency services in their area.

      Read the country information page for additional information to Albania.

      If you decide to travel to Albania:

      Full Story

      Guatemala - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

      Mon, 30 Dec 2024

      Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

      Reconsider travel to Guatemala due to crime. Some areas have higher risks. Please read the full Travel Advisory.

      Do not travel to:

      • San Marcos Department (except the city of San Marcos) due to crime.
      • Huehuetenango Department (except the city of Huehuetenango) due to crime.
      • Zone 18 in Guatemala City and the city of Villa Nueva due to crime.

      Country Summary: Some areas of Guatemala have problems with gangs, robbery, carjacking, drug trafficking and violence. Local law enforcement may not always respond well to serious crimes, leading to low arrest and conviction rates.  While tourists are not usually targeted, they can still be victims of opportunistic crimes.

      Guatemala has a program called the Tourist Assistance Program (ASISTUR) that helps protect tourists. ASISTUR works with tourist police (DISETUR) in popular areas like Antigua, Lake Atitlán, Tikal, Quetzaltenango, Puerto Barrios, and Coban. They also have an emergency call center that speaks both Spanish and English. Tourist groups can request a security escort if they have safety concerns. You can call them anytime by dialing 1500 from a Guatemalan phone number or (502) 2290-2810, and you can also reach them on WhatsApp at +502-5188-1819.

      U.S. government employees and their families cannot travel to the San Marcos Department, Huehuetenango Department, Zone 18 in Guatemala City, or Villa Nueva. They can travel to other parts of Guatemala and visit popular places like Tikal, Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and the Pacific coast areas in the Santa Rosa and Escuintla. However, they should avoid driving outside Guatemala City at night because of poor lighting and safety risks. They may not use white car taxis or public transportation, like “chicken buses” due to the high chance of crime and injury.

      Check the country information page for helpful information about traveling to Guatemala. This includes information on entry and exit rules, safety, local laws, health, and getting around. Also, visit the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala City’s website for local resources, like legal help, medical services, driver’s licenses, and information on residence and work permits, as well as rules about bringing weapons into Guatemala.

      If you decide to travel to Guatemala:

      • Do not travel outside Guatemala City at night because the roads are poorly lit, and there is a high risk for serious traffic accidents.
      • When visiting Lake Atitlán, use certified tour guides and travel between villages by chartered boat. The paths around the lake can be dangerous and hard to access. Emergency services cannot arrive quickly to help.
      • Avoid swimming in the Pacific Ocean because the currents and undertow are very strong, and there are not many lifeguards.
      • Never leave drinks unattended in bars and restaurants and say no to invitations from strangers to private parties.
      • Consider staying in hotels that have secure parking, doormen, and professional security staff.
      • Use trusted taxi services like Taxis Amarillo Express, Taxi Seguro, or Uber, and only use INGUAT-approved taxis from the “SAFE” stand at the airport, hotel taxis, or vetted private drivers. Avoid public transport and white car taxis, as well as “chicken buses.”
      • Do not hike trails or volcanoes without a qualified local guide, as robberies can happen and getting help can be difficult.
      • Avoid using public ATMs, and do not show signs of wealth like wearing expensive watches or jewelry. Also, try not to use your phone in public.
      • Check the Overseas Security Advisory Council’s (OSAC) Country Security Report for Guatemala.
      • Review the Traveler’s Checklist and make a plan for emergencies.
      • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Notice and Yellow Book on Guatemala.
      • Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts while in Guatemala and help others find you in case of an emergency.
      • Follow the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala on Facebook and X(Twitter) for updates.

      San Marcos Department – Level 4: Do Not Travel

      U.S. government personnel and their families may not go to the San Marcos Department for personal travel, except for the city of San Marcos itself. There is a lot of drug trafficking in this area, and many parts are controlled by drug gangs. Some towns do not have enough police, and local officers may not have the resources to handle serious crimes.  

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Huehuetenango Department – Level 4: Do Not Travel

      U.S. government personnel and their families may not go to Huehuetenango Department for personal travel, except for the city of Huehuetenango itself. There is a lot of drug trafficking in this area, and many parts are controlled by drug gangs. Some towns do not have enough police, and local officers may not have the resources to handle serious crimes.

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Zone 18 in Guatemala City and the city of Villa Nueva  – Level 4: Do Not Travel

      U.S. government personnel and their families are not allowed to travel to or through Zone 18 in Guatemala City and the city of Villa Nueva due to increased risk of crime and significant gang activity. Aside from Zone 18 and Villa Nueva, U.S. government personnel and their family members are permitted to travel throughout Guatemala City, even at night.

      Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

      Full Story