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.
Paraguay
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August 19, 2026
•[ normal ]
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise Increased Caution in Departments of Alto Paraná, Amambay, Canindeyú, Concepcion, and San Pedro due to crime. Advisory summary Paraguay is generally a safe destination for travelers. Some areas have increased crime risk. U.S. government employees working in Paraguay need special authorization to travel to some areas. U.S. government employees are prohibited from using municipal buses in Paraguay because of risk of robbery and assault. Read the Country Information Page for additional information on travel to Paraguay. Risks in specific areas Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution - Departments of Alto Paraná, Amambay, Canindeyú, Concepcion, and San Pedro Exercise increased caution in these areas due to the risk of crime. Criminal groups are active in these areas, smuggling weapons, drugs, and other goods along the northeastern border of Paraguay with Brazil. Police presence in some of these areas is low. Due to security risks, U.S. government employees working in Paraguay need special authorization to travel to Alto Paraná, Amambay, Canindeyú, Concepcion, and San Pedro, and are prohibited from nighttime driving between these departments. If you decide to travel to Paraguay: 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 Paraguay. Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime. Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel 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.
Australia
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August 18, 2026
•[ normal ]
Exercise normal precautionin Australia. Australia is generally a safe destination for travelers. Review our Travel Guidance for Australia to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.
Kazakhstan
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August 18, 2026
•[ normal ]
Exercise normal precautionin Kazakhstan. 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.
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.
Netherlands
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August 18, 2026
•[ caution ]
Exercise increased cautionin the Netherlands due to terrorism. Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in the Netherlands. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. Possible targets include: Tourist locations Transportation hubs and airports Markets and shopping malls Local government facilities Hotels, clubs, and restaurants Places of worship Parks Major sporting and cultural events Educational institutions Other public areas Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more. Petty crime, including pickpocketing, purse snatching, and passport theft, is common in tourist areas. Criminals target tourists in popular locations. Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity. Tourists should be aware of overcharging and scams. Stay aware of your surroundings. Review our Travel Guidance for the Netherlands to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.
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.
Democratic Republic of the Congo
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July 15, 2026
•[ warning ]
Do not travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) due to health, crime, unrest, terrorism, and kidnapping. Due to the Ebola outbreak in the DRC, the Department of Homeland Security has implemented new restrictions under Title 49 of the U.S. Code which prevent U.S. citizens and nationals who have been in the DRC within a 21-day period from boarding commercial flights into the United States. Travelers who have been in the DRC within 21 days of their flight will not be allowed to board flights with U.S. destinations. All U.S. citizens and U.S. nationals who have been in the DRC must remain outside the DRC for 21 days before boarding flights to the United States. Visit the Centers for Disease Control’s Information for Travelers Returning from Ebola-affected Areas for more information. Advisory summary The U.S. government has limited ability to provide in-person emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), especially those outside of Kinshasa, due to the health and security situation. Health The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Travel Health Notice for Ebola for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). On May 17, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the Ebola outbreak in the DRC and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Outbreaks of serious infectious diseases are common in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information before you travel. The local health infrastructure is inadequate. Health services, hygiene, and quality control do not meet U.S. standards of care. Pharmacies are not well regulated. Locally available medications may be unsafe.
Argentina
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July 10, 2026
•[ normal ]
Exercise normal precautionin Argentina. Argentina is generally a safe destination for travelers. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has issued a Level 1 Travelers’ Health Notice for Andes virus (Hantavirus) in the region. The risk for most travelers is extremely low. Review the CDC’s Travelers’ Health Notice for more information on Andes virus. Petty crime occurs at times, especially in popular tourist locations and throughout Buenos Aires. Stay aware of your surroundings. Criminal and drug trafficking groups are active in Rosario (Santa Fe province) resulting in crime and violence. Review our Travel Guidance for Argentina to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.
Eswatini
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July 10, 2026
•[ caution ]
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise increased caution in Eswatini due to crime and civil unrest. Advisory Summary Crime Crime is common in Eswatini. Sporadic armed robberies and carjackings occur. Local police may lack the resources to deal effectively with criminal incidents. Unrest Demonstrations and protests occur sporadically in Eswatini. Americans should avoid all public gatherings, even peaceful ones. They could turn violent with little or no warning. If you decide to travel to Eswatini: 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 Eswatini. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Eswatini. Keep a low profile and stay aware of your surroundings. Do not display signs of wealth, like expensive watches or jewelry. Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime. Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Monitor local media for breaking events. Be prepared to adjust your plans. Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible. Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations. We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
Haiti
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July 10, 2026
•[ warning ]
There was no change to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. embassy operations. Do Not Travel to Haiti due to the risk of crime, kidnapping, terrorism, unrest, and limited health care. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Advisory summary Haiti has been under a national state of emergency since March 2024. This state of emergency remains in effect. U.S. government employee travel restrictions U.S. government employees working in Haiti are not allowed to travel away from the U.S. embassy for non-essential reasons due to safety risks. The U.S. government has an extremely limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Haiti because of security-related travel restrictions. Due to safety risks, family members cannot join U.S. government employees who work in Haiti. Air Travel U.S. commercial flights are not currently operating to or from Port-au-Prince. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) that prohibits U.S. air carrier flights to Port-au-Prince due to ongoing instability. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices. Crime Violent crime is rampant in Haiti, especially in Port-au-Prince. There has been an increase in gangs, organized crime, and terrorist activities. Crimes involving firearms are common. Crimes include robbery, carjackings, sexual assault, and kidnappings for ransom. The escalation of fighting between armed groups has led to a rise in random gunfire incidents. There is risk of being struck by stray bullets, even for people not directly involved in the violence. Local law enforcement has an extremely limited ability to respond to serious crimes, particularly outside Port-au-Prince and Cap-Haitien. Kidnapping Kidnapping is widespread. U.S. citizen victims of kidnapping have been hurt or killed. Kidnappers often demand ransoms. Ransom demands are typically in the tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars. Kidnappers target and attack vehicles, including commercial busses. They can also attack convoys. Terrorism Terrorist violence, including attacks on citizens and other violent gang activity, happens frequently in Haiti. Some Haitian gangs are designated by the U.S. Department of State as terrorist organizations. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more. Unrest Protests, demonstrations, and roadblocks are common and unpredictable. Protesters and demonstrators sometimes damage or destroy infrastructure and can become violent. Armed, anti-gang vigilante groups attack and, in many cases, kill U.S. citizens. This is when they suspect someone of being a gang member based only on rumors or incorrect information. Neighborhood watch groups have built improvised barricades and gates to control the flow of traffic in certain areas. “Watch groups” often harass or detain people who are not known to be residents of their neighborhoods. Health Hospitals and clinics in Haiti have limited trained staff and lack basic resources. Medical providers almost always require payment in cash before treatment. Most medical providers speak little or no English. For U.S. citizens in Haiti: 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 Haiti. Choose one family member to serve as the point of contact. If you are kidnapped or taken hostage, that person can communicate with kidnappers or hostage-takers, media, U.S. or foreign government agencies, and members of Congress. Establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones. If you are kidnapped, your loved ones will know specific questions (and answers) to ask the kidnappers to confirm that you are being held captive and are alive. Review our information on Terrorism, Travel to High-Risk Areas, U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad, Crime Abroad, and for Victims of Crime. Keep your travel documents up to date and easy to access. Develop a communication plan with your family, employer, or host organization. Plan together how and when you'll confirm you are safe (text or call). Prepare a will. Designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or prepare a power of attorney. Refer to our list of medical providers. Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations. We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage. Make sure your insurance includes medical evacuation coverage. Medical evacuation from Haiti is very expensive and the U.S. government may not be able to assist should you need emergency medical care. Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Use caution when walking or driving at night. Keep a low profile. Stay aware of your surroundings. Do not display signs of wealth, like expensive watches or jewelry. Stay alert when visiting banks or ATMs.
Saint Lucia
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July 10, 2026
•[ caution ]
Exercise increased caution in Saint Lucia due to risk of crime. Violent crime can occur anywhere in Saint Lucia. U.S. citizens and other foreigners in Saint Lucia have been victims of armed robbery, assault, burglary, and rape. In some cases, U.S. citizens have been killed. Crime Guests at tourist resorts have been victims of violent crimes. Police response times are not as fast as in the United States. 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. Tourists should beware of overcharging and scams in tourist areas. You may encounter aggressive vendors. Most sites have tourist police available to help in uncomfortable situations. Hurricanes Saint Lucia regularly experiences hurricanes. Review our information on Weather and Natural Disasters in Saint Lucia.
Malta
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July 9, 2026
•[ normal ]
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Advisory summary Malta is generally a safe destination for travelers. Riptides have caused drowning deaths among tourists. U.S. citizens should use caution when at local beaches and follow lifeguards’ instructions. Review our Travel Guidance for Malta to learn how to prepare for a safe trip. If you decide to travel to Malta: 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 Malta. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Malta. 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.
Malta
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July 9, 2026
•[ normal ]
Exercise normal precautionin Malta. Malta is generally a safe destination for travelers. Riptides have caused drowning deaths among tourists. U.S. citizens should use caution when at local beaches and follow lifeguards’ instructions. Review our Travel Guidance for Malta to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.
French Guiana
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July 8, 2026
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There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. The Advisory summary was updated. Advisory summary French Guiana is generally a safe destination for travelers. There is no official U.S. consular representation in French Guiana. Consular services are provided by the U.S. Embassy in Paramaribo, Suriname. Review our Travel Guidance for French Guiana to learn how to prepare for a safe trip. If you decide to travel to French Guiana: 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. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for French Guiana. Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
