Austria
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August 21, 2026
•[ normal ]
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Advisory summary Austria is generally a safe destination for travelers. Read our Travel Guidance for additional information on travel to Austria. If you decide to travel to Austria: 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 Austria. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Austria. Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist. We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel, as many insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, do not cover medical costs overseas. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
Mozambique
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August 21, 2026
•[ caution ]
Exercise increased cautionto Mozambique due to terrorism, crime, health, and unrest. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Terrorism Terrorist groups in northern Mozambique are active. Attackers may strike public areas and tourist destinations with little or no warning, sometimes taking hostages. Terrorists have targeted upscale lodges in remote areas where international big-game hunters stay. Security and police forces may be slow to respond. 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. Crime Violent crime, such as mugging, is common. Petty crime is common in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings. Health Mozambique’s health infrastructure is weak. Medicine availability is variable and often in short supply. Local medical facilities may lack basic resources and supplies. Some health facilities may ask for cash payment up front. Medical services for routine and emergency procedures are limited. Read the Health section of the Travel Guidance for more information. Unrest Unplanned protests are possible throughout the country. They can quickly become violent. Protests may temporarily block major roads, including toll booths and border crossings. Do Not Travel to the following areas due to terrorism: Cabo Delgado Province Niassa Special Reserve inside Niassa Province Certain districts in the north of Nampula Province
Turkmenistan
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August 21, 2026
•[ normal ]
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise normal precautions in Turkmenistan. Advisory summary Turkmenistan is generally a safe destination for travelers. Medical services for routine and emergency procedures are limited. Review the Health section of the Travel Guidance on this page for more information. Turkmenistan is located in a seismically active zone. Review our information on Weather and Natural Distasters. Review our Travel Guidance for Turkmenistan to learn how to prepare for a safe trip. If you decide to travel to Turkmenistan: 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 Turkmenistan. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Turkmenistan. Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist. We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
Bonaire
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August 20, 2026
•[ normal ]
There was no change to the advisory level. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise normal precautions in Bonaire. Advisory summary Bonaire is generally a safe destination for travelers. Petty crime is most likely to occur in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings. Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, such as theft of unsecured property or vehicle break-ins. Beware of overcharges and scams in tourist areas. Some sellers may be aggressive. Most sites have tourist police available to help in uncomfortable situations. Crime rates are low. However, armed robberies occur at businesses storing large amounts of cash or involved in drug or gang activity. It is illegal to bring guns, ammunition, and even spent shells or casings into Bonaire. You may face arrest and detention for long periods of time. Review our Travel Guidance for Bonaire to learn how to prepare for a safe trip. If you decide to travel to Bonaire: 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 the Dutch Caribbean. You may wish to use different bags for travel than the ones you use to store or carry weapons and ammunition at home. This may help you avoid accidentally bringing illegal items into Bonaire. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Bonaire. Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist. We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
Curaçao
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August 20, 2026
•[ normal ]
There was no change to the advisory level. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise normal precautions in Curaçao. Advisory summary Curaçao is generally a safe destination for travelers. Petty crime is most likely to occur in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings. Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, such as theft of unsecured property or vehicle break-ins. Beware of overcharges and scams in tourist areas. Some sellers may be aggressive. Most sites have tourist police available to help in uncomfortable situations. Crime rates are low. However, armed robberies occur at businesses storing large amounts of cash or involved in drug or gang activity. It is illegal to bring guns, ammunition, and even spent shells or casings into Curaçao. You may face arrest and detention for long periods of time. Review our Travel Guidance for Curaçao to learn how to prepare for a safe trip. If you decide to travel to Curaçao: 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 the Dutch Caribbean. Consider using different bags for travel than ones you use to store or carry weapons and ammunition at home. This may help you avoid accidentally bringing illegal items into Curaçao. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Curaçao. Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist. We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
Guadeloupe
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August 20, 2026
•[ normal ]
Exercise normal precautionin Guadeloupe. Guadeloupe is generally a safe destination for travelers. Guadeloupe regularly experiences hurricanes. Review our information on Weather and Natural Disasters in Guadeloupe. Review our Travel Guidance for Guadeloupe to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.
Martinique
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August 20, 2026
•[ normal ]
Exercise normal precautionin Martinique. Martinique is generally a safe destination for travelers. Martinique regularly experiences hurricanes. Review our information on Weather and Natural Disasters in Martinique. Review our Travel Guidance for Martinique to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.
Saba
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August 20, 2026
•[ normal ]
There was no change to the advisory level. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise normal precautions in Saba. Advisory summary Saba is generally safe destinations for travelers. Petty crime is most likely to occur in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings. Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, such as theft of unsecured property or vehicle break-ins. Beware of overcharges and scams in tourist areas. Some sellers may be aggressive. Most sites have tourist police available to help in uncomfortable situations. Crime rates are low. However, armed robberies occur at businesses storing large amounts of cash or involved in drug or gang activity. It is illegal to bring guns, ammunition, and even spent shells or casings into Saba. You may face arrest and detention for long periods of time. Medical services for routine and emergency procedures are limited. Read the Health section of the Travel Guidance for more information. Review our Travel Guidance for Saba to learn how to prepare for a safe trip. If you decide to travel to Saba. 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 the Dutch Caribbean. Consider using different bags for travel than ones you use to store or carry weapons and ammunition at home. This may help you avoid accidentally bringing illegal items into Saba. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Saba. Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist. We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
Saint Barthelemy
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August 20, 2026
•[ normal ]
Exercise normal precautionin Saint Barthélemy. Saint Barthélemy is generally a safe destination for travelers. Saint Barthélemy regularly experiences hurricanes. Review our information on Weather and Natural Disasters in Saint Barthélemy. Review our Travel Guidance for Saint Barthélemy to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.
Sint Eustatius
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August 20, 2026
•[ normal ]
Reissued after periodic review without changes. Exercise normal precautions in Sint Eustatius. There was no change to the advisory level. Advisory summary was updated. Advisory summary Sint Eustatius is generally safe destinations for travelers. Petty crime is most likely to occur in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings. Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, such as theft of unsecured property or vehicle break-ins. Beware of overcharges and scams in tourist areas. Some sellers may be aggressive. Most sites have tourist police available to help in uncomfortable situations. Crime rates are low. However, armed robberies occur at businesses storing large amounts of cash or involved in drug or gang activity. It is illegal to bring guns, ammunition, and even spent shells or casings into Sint Eustatius. You may face arrest and detention for long periods of time. Medical services for routine and emergency procedures are limited. Read the Health section of the Travel Guidance for more information. Review our Travel Guidance for Sint Eustatius to learn how to prepare for a safe trip. If you decide to travel to Sint Eustatius. 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 the Dutch Caribbean. Consider using different bags for travel than ones you use to store or carry weapons and ammunition at home. This may help you avoid accidentally bringing illegal items into Sint Eustatius. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Sint Eustatius. Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist. We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
Panama
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August 19, 2026
•[ caution ]
There was no change to the advisory level. The unrest indicator was removed. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise increased caution in Panama due to crime. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire travel advisory. Do not travel to the Mosquito Gulf due to crime. Do not travel to parts of the Darién Region due to crime. Advisory summary U.S. government employees working in Panama need special authorization to travel to the Mosquito Gulf and the Darién Region due to safety risks. The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas. Crime Crime occurs in Panama, including theft and residential break-ins. Crimes of opportunity such as pickpocketing and purse snatching can happen in tourist areas. The U.S. embassy receives occasional reports of residential break-ins, especially during the holiday season. Unrest Large-scale demonstrations related to the local political situation may occur with little notice. Demonstrations may disrupt transportation and other essential services. Mosquito Gulf – Level 4: Do Not Travel Do Not Travel to Mosquito Gulf due to crime. The Mosquito Gulf is an extremely remote and inaccessible area along the north (Caribbean) coast of Panama. Do not travel within 10 miles of the coastline, from Alligator Creek to Cocle del Norte. Drug trafficking and other illicit activities occur in this area. Parts of the Darién Region – Level 4: Do Not Travel Do Not Travel to parts of the Darién Region due to crime. Do not travel to the following areas of the Darién Region: All areas south of Jaque, Manene, Yaviza, and Lajas Blancas communities to the Colombian border. The community of Lajas Blancas. The community of El Salto. Criminal activity and human trafficking networks operate in these areas. Police presence and emergency response are extremely limited. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. If you decide to travel to Panama: 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 Panama. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.Be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling to remote areas. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Do not display signs of wealth, like expensive watches or jewelry. Avoid demonstrations and large crowds. Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist. We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
Panama
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August 19, 2026
•[ caution ]
Exercise increased cautionin Panama due to crime. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire travel advisory. U.S. government employees working in Panama need special authorization to travel to the Mosquito Gulf and the Darién Region due to safety risks. The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas. Crime Crime occurs in Panama, including theft and residential break-ins. Crimes of opportunity such as pickpocketing and purse snatching can happen in tourist areas. The U.S. embassy receives occasional reports of residential break-ins, especially during the holiday season. Unrest Large-scale demonstrations related to the local political situation may occur with little notice. Demonstrations may disrupt transportation and other essential services. Do not travel to: The Mosquito Gulf due to crime. Parts of the Darién Region due to crime.
Kazakhstan
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August 18, 2026
•[ normal ]
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Kazakhstan is generally a safe destination for travelers. Review our Travel Guidance for Kazakhstan to learn how to prepare for a safe trip. Kazakhstan regularly experiences flooding. Review our information on Weather and Natural Disasters in Kazakhstan. If you decide to travel to Kazakhstan: 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 Kazakhstan. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Kazakhstan. Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist. We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
Mauritania
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August 18, 2026
•[ reconsider ]
There was no change to the advisory level. The health” risk indicator was added. Advisory summary was updated. Reconsider travel to Mauritania due to terrorism, crime, and limited health infrastructure. 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 60 miles of the Mali and Algeria border Advisory Summary U.S. government employee travel restrictions The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to American citizens in Mauritania due to safety risks. U.S. government employees working in Mauritania are not allowed to travel outside Nouakchott at night. They cannot walk alone outside of specific areas and times. U.S. government employees working in Mauritania need special authorization to travel outside Nouakchott. American citizens in Mauritania are advised to take similar precautions. Crime Violent crimes occur frequently outside the Tevragh Zeina neighborhoods in Nouakchott. This includes 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. Crimes may happen with little or no warning, targeting tourist places. Crimes often happen at night and include kidnapping, assault, and armed robbery. Stay aware of your surroundings in: Urban areas and crowded markets. Roadblocks, including by armed groups. They are present throughout the country. Terrorism There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mauritania. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more. Terrorists may attack without warning: Tourist spots where foreigners gather, anywhere in the country Schools Hotels Restaurants Places of worship and religious sites International diplomatic missions Local security forces and civilians Health Health facilities are available in major cities. However, routine and emergency care may be limited or unavailable. Healthcare in rural areas in Mauritania is very limited. Medical care may not meet U.S. standards of care. Hospitals and doctors require payment up front prior to service or admission. Payments can be made in cash or mobile payments apps (Bankily, Masrvi, and Sadad) using a local Mauritanian bank. Medication and medical supplies may be unavailable in many healthcare facilities. Locally available medications may be unsafe. Pharmacies are not well regulated. Read the Health section of the Travel Guidance on this page for more information. Level 4: Do Not Travel Do Not Travel to Areas Designated off-limits by the Mauritanian Military 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. Do not travel to these areas for any reason. Terrorists and criminal organizations may carry out attacks in the rural area of Mauritania. If you decide to travel to Mauritania: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency. Review the Country Security Report for Mauritania. Review our information on Terrorism and Travel to High-Risk Areas. Review our information on Crime Abroad and Victims of Crime. Review our information on U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad. Share your itinerary with a family member or friend. Develop a communication plan with family, your employer, or host organization. This helps them monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. Specify how you will confirm you are safe (e.g., text, calls), how often, and who you will contact first to share the information. Carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable). Leave originals in your hotel safe. Do not display signs of wealth, like expensive watches or jewelry. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans. Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Mauritania. Whether you are a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist. We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
Mongolia
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July 29, 2026
•[ normal ]
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise normal precautions in Mongolia. Advisory summary Mongolia is generally a safe destination for travelers. Review our travel guidance for Mongolia to learn how to prepare for a safe trip. If you decide to travel to Mongolia: 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 Mongolia. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States. Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist. We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel, especially if you plan on engaging in outdoor activities. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
Kenya
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July 28, 2026
•[ caution ]
Exercise increased cautionin Kenya due to risk of crime, kidnapping, terrorism, unrest, health, and traffic safety. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Crime Violent crime can occur at any time. Violent crimes include armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, sexual assault, and kidnapping for ransom. Petty crime is common. Criminal fraud targeting Americans is a concern. Local police often are unable to respond effectively to crimes. Crimes like robbery are common. They are often committed by individuals riding motorcycles. Solo travelers in particular should exercise caution. Some Americans have been victims of sexual assault in bars and resorts/hotels. Petty crimes often occur in crowded areas or when people are distracted. Schemes to defraud investors are common. Americans often fall victim to schemes involving transactions in gold and other high-value commodities. Kenyan authorities are unlikely to assist Americans in recovering losses. Property disputes are common in Kenya. Americans who have bought land, churches, and businesses have lost their investments or been pushed off the property by locals who claim the land or business. Kidnapping Terrorists, criminal gangs, and other armed groups kidnap for ransom. Local law enforcement officials are not equipped or trained to handle the threat of kidnapping. Terrorism There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more. Terrorists plot kidnappings, bombings, grenade attacks, armed assaults, suicide attacks, and other action in Kenya. Terrorists attack without warning. They have targeted: Kenyan and foreign government buildings tourist locations transportation hubs hotels and resorts markets and shopping malls places of worship Unrest Cross-border incursions occur along the border with Ethiopia. Demonstrations, strikes, and other political and economic protests are common. They can turn violent. Protests often block key intersections and highways, resulting in widespread traffic jams. Protestors have also attacked vehicles containing Americans, including motorcycle taxis and safari vehicles. Violence during protests has occurred across Kenya. This includes rock-throwing by protesters and use of deadly force by police. Violent protests are most common in Nairobi and in western Kenya. Health Medical services in Kenya are limited. They are often unavailable in rural areas. Medical facilities in Kenya often lack sufficient medicine and equipment. Except for a few private medical facilities based in the large urban centers with enhanced capability, many health issues may require medical evacuation at your expense. Medical facilities will usually deny service if payment is not made upfront. Some schools, substance abuse centers, and other facilities claim to rehabilitate people, but operate with little or no government supervision. Physical and emotional abuse is common in these places. Residents, including Americans, have been held in these facilities against their will. Americans or residents who lure individuals to Kenya under false pretenses or forcibly place Americans into such rehabilitation facilities may be subject to legal repercussions in the United States. Traffic safety Automobile accidents are one of the main causes of injury and death of Americans in Kenya. Major highways between Nairobi and Nakuru and Nairobi and Mombasa are only two lanes, and drivers frequently pass with little attention to oncoming traffic. Tourists, who may not always use seatbelts, have also been seriously injured or killed in safari vehicle accidents.
Laos
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July 28, 2026
•[ caution ]
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary updated. Exercise increased caution in Laos due to crime, unrest, and unexploded ordnances. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Increased Risk Areas: Reconsider Travel to Xaisomboun Province due to civil unrest Exercise Increased Caution in areas on the Border with Burma, Savannakhet, Xieng Khouang, Salavan, Khammouane, Sekong, Champasak, Houaphanh, Attapeu, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane provinces, along Route 7 (from Route 13 to the Vietnam border), Route 9 (Savannakhet to the Vietnam border), and Route 20 (Pakse to Salavan) due to crime. Exercise Increased Caution in areas of Savannakhet, Xieng Khouang, Salavan, Khammouane, Sekong, Champasak, Houaphanh, Attapeu, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane provinces, as well as along Route 7 due to unexploded ordnances. Advisory summary: Review our Travel Guidance for Laos to learn how to prepare for a safe trip. Avoid Special Economic Zones (SEZs), especially the Bokeo SEZ (also known as the Golden Triangle SEZ) and Boten SEZ. Scam centers and transnational criminal organizations that operate within these zones increase the risk of crime. Specific areas of risks: Reconsider Travel to Xaisomboun Province due to civil unrest. There is a continued threat of violence in Xaisomboun Province. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Xaisomboun Province. U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to Xaisomboun Province. Exercise Increased Caution in areas on the Border with Burma, Savannakhet, Xieng Khouang, Salavan, Khammouane, Sekong, Champasak, Houaphanh, Attapeu, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane provinces, along Route 7 (from Route 13 to the Vietnam border), Route 9 (Savannakhet to the Vietnam border), and Route 20 (Pakse to Salavan) due to crime. Avoid remote areas along the border with Burma due to crime. Bandits, drug traffickers, and other people involved in illegal activities operate in these areas, along with armed groups that are against the Burmese government. Exercise Increased Caution in areas of Savannakhet, Xieng Khouang, Salavan, Khammouane, Sekong, Champasak, Houaphanh, Attapeu, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane provinces, as well as along Route 7 due to unexploded ordnances. There are large numbers of unexploded ordnance remaining from the Indochina War in these areas: Savannakhet, Xieng Khouang, Salavan, Khammouane, Sekong, Champasak, Houaphanh, Attapeu, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane provinces. Along Route 7 (from Route 13 to the Vietnam border), Route 9 (Savannakhet to the Vietnam border), and Route 20 (Pakse to Salavan). Avoid Special Economic Zones (SEZs), especially the Bokeo SEZ (also known as the Golden Triangle SEZ) and Boten SEZ. Scam centers and transnational criminal organizations that operate within these zones increase the risk of crime. If you decide to travel to Laos: 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 Laos. Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC website for the latest Travel Health Information for New Caledonia. Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist. We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
The Bahamas
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July 28, 2026
•[ caution ]
There are no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to crime. Advisory summary Crime Violent crime, including 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, boating, and licenses Boating is not well regulated. Injuries and deaths have occurred. There have been reports of sexual assaults by jet ski operators. Due to safety risks, U.S. government employees are not allowed to use or rent jet skis and personal watercraft 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. Do not operate a fishing boat or other charter in Bahamian waters without a license from The Bahamas Port Department. Police have detained American boaters and seized their vessels. Penalties include a fine of up to $100,000 and 3 years in prison. 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 injury and death. Be aware of weather and water conditions and follow local warnings. Weapons and ammunition Firearms and ammunition are illegal, including small quantities 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. Hurricanes The Bahamas regularly experiences hurricanes. Review our information on Weather and Natural Disasters in The Bahamas. Review our Travel Guidance for The Bahamas to learn how to prepare for a safe trip. If you decide to travel to The Bahamas: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency. Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime. Review the Country Security Report for 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. Visit The Bahamas Port Department’s website if you plan to operate a charter or sail in Bahamian waters. Always check your personal belongings. Officials have detained travelers entering and exiting the country for carrying guns, ammunition, or other prohibited items. You must follow local laws abroad. If you break laws in The Bahamas – even by mistake – you could face deportation, fines, or imprisonment. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for The Bahamas. Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist. We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
Uruguay
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July 28, 2026
•[ caution ]
Exercise increased cautionin Uruguay due to crime. Exercise increased caution in Uruguay due to crime. Crime is most common in these departments: Montevideo Canelones Maldonado Rivera Violent crime occurs across the country. Crimes include homicide, armed robbery, carjacking and theft. These crimes can happen at any time and have affected U.S. citizens. Criminals often travel in pairs on motorcycles. They may approach victims with a weapon and demand personal belongings. Armed criminals also target grocery stores, restaurants, financial centers, and small businesses. Sometimes innocent bystanders become victims. Review our Travel Guidance for Uruguay to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.
Belgium
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July 23, 2026
•[ caution ]
Exercise increased cautionin Belgium due to crime, terrorism, and unrest. Crime Petty crime is common, especially in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings. Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing. Terrorism There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Belgium. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more. Unrest Large-scale, generally peaceful demonstrations related to the local political situation may occur. Demonstrations may disrupt transportation and other essential services. Review our Travel Guidance for Belgium to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.
