Ecuador
|
April 15, 2024
•[ caution ]
Updated with information about land border travel restrictions. Exercise increased caution in Ecuador due to civil unrest, crime, and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do not travel to: Guayaquil, south of Portete de Tarqui Avenue, due to crime. The cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas in the province of El Oro, due to crime. The cities of Quevedo, Quinsaloma, and Pueblo Viejo in the province of Los Rios, due to crime. The canton of Duran, in the province of Guayas, due to crime. Esmeraldas city and all areas north of Esmeraldas city in Esmeraldas province, due to crime. Reconsider travel to: Guayaquil north of Portete de Tarqui Avenue due to crime. El Oro province outside the cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas, due to crime. Los Rios province outside the cities of Quevedo, Quinsaloma, and Pueblo Viejo, due to crime. All areas south of Esmeraldas city in Esmeraldas province, due to crime. The provinces of Sucumbios, Manabi, Santa Elena, and Santo Domingo due to crime. Country Summary: Crime is a widespread problem in Ecuador. Violent crime, such as murder, assault, kidnapping, and armed robbery, is prevalent and widespread. The rate of violent crime is significantly higher in areas where transnational criminal organizations are concentrated. Demonstrations occur frequently throughout the country, usually motivated by political and/or economic factors. Demonstrators routinely block local roads and major highways, often without prior notice which can lead to disruption in access to critical infrastructure. Outside of Ecuador’s major towns and cities, much of the country’s territory is sparsely populated and isolated. Government assistance may be very limited and can lead to significant delays for assistance to U.S. citizens in remote areas. Land Border Restrictions: All foreign citizens entering the country via land border crossings from Colombia or Peru are required to present an apostilled certificate showing a lack of criminal record. Further information is available on the Ministry of Tourism’s webpage and at Ecuador.Travel. All U.S. citizens planning to enter Ecuador via a land border should comply with this requirement. See Travel.State.Gov’s Office of Authentications webpage and Criminal Records Check webpage for information on how to obtain a criminal record check and apostille from the United States. The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General in Ecuador cannot assist citizens crossing a land border in obtaining the required documentation. Read the country information page for additional information on traveling to Ecuador. If you decide to travel to Ecuador: 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, Twitter, and Instagram Review the Country Security Report for Ecuador. 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. Level 4: Do Not Travel Guayaquil, south of Portete de Tarqui Avenue, due to crime. The cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas in the Province of El Oro, due to crime. The cities of Quevedo, Quinsaloma, and Pueblo Viejo in the province of Los Rios, due to crime. The canton of Duran, in the province of Guayas, due to crime. Esmeraldas city and all areas north of Esmeraldas city in Esmeraldas province, due to crime. Transnational criminal groups and local gangs regularly engage in violent criminal acts in these areas, including indiscriminate attacks without warning in public spaces. Violent crimes have included murder, targeted assassinations, armed robberies, bombings, kidnappings, and assaults, among others. Violence in these areas has steadily increased in frequency and brutality in recent months, posing an increased security risk to U.S. citizens. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to these areas without prior authorization. As a result, the U.S. government is limited in its ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas. Level 3: Reconsider Travel Guayaquil north of Portete de Tarqui Avenue, due to crime. El Oro province outside the cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas, due to crime. Los Rios province outside the cities of Quevedo, Quinsaloma, and Pueblo Viejo, due to crime. All areas south of Esmeraldas city in Esmeraldas province, due to crime. The provinces of Sucumbios, Manabi, Santa Elena, and Santo Domingo, due to crime. Transnational criminal groups and local gangs have sporadically engaged in violent criminal activity in these areas, with violence increasing in recent months. U.S. government personnel are directed to exercise extreme caution and maintain increased vigilance when traveling in and around these areas. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
Armenia
|
April 9, 2024
•[ caution ]
Updated to reflect changes in the Do Not Travel section. Exercise increased caution in Armenia due to areas of armed conflict. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not Travel To: The border region with Azerbaijan. U.S. Embassy Employees and their families remain prohibited from any non-essential travel to the following areas: Gegharkunik region east of Vardenis. Syunik region east of Goris; Syunik region south of Kapan; Travel through Yeraskh village in Ararat region is allowed, stopping is not. Country Summary: U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution in Armenia. Further military activity could occur in the region. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Armenia. If you decide to travel to Armenia: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Armenia. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. Border with Azerbaijan – Level 4: Do Not Travel There is the potential for armed conflict near the Armenia-Azerbaijan border. U.S. citizens should avoid the area. Exercise caution on roads near Armenia’s border with Azerbaijan. 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. The U.S. embassy has prohibited embassy employees and their families from non-essential travel to the border region, as well as other areas of Armenia listed above. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
Cote d Ivoire
|
April 8, 2024
•[ caution ]
Updated to reflect safety and security information on the Northern Border Region, and additional points for mariners who decide to travel to Côte d’Ivoire. Exercise increased caution due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health, and piracy. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not Travel To: Northern border region due to terrorism. Country Summary: Crime continues to be a major public security concern in Côte d’Ivoire. Violent crime, such as carjacking, robbery, and home invasion, is common in some areas. Local police often lack resources to respond to serious crimes. Violent extremist activity occurs in Burkina Faso and Mali near the border with Côte d’Ivoire. Terrorism concerns in the northern region remain due to its proximity to these countries. Travelers should avoid demonstrations, protests, political rallies, and large crowds. These events can become violent. Demonstrators and security forces may clash suddenly. Police may use tear gas or other force to break up crowds. Piracy with armed robbery and kidnapping for ransom are significant threats to ships operating near Côte d’Ivoire. U.S. citizens on ships in the Gulf of Guinea off the coast of West Africa should be cautious. Health care in rural areas is below U.S. standards. There are often shortages of medicine and medical supplies in public and private health facilities. The U.S. government is limited in its ability to provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens outside Abidjan. U.S. Embassy staff are not permitted to drive outside major cities at night. Read the country information page for more information on travel to Côte d’Ivoire. If you decide to travel to Côte d’Ivoire: Check local media for breaking events and adjust your plans. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Use caution when walking or driving at night. Keep a low profile. Be aware of your surroundings. Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry. Stay alert in locations frequented by foreign travelers and foreign residents. Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs. Carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable). Leave originals in your hotel safe. Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government help. Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Get full medical insurance. It should include medical evacuation. Mariners should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts, U.S. Coast Guard homeport website, and NGA broadcast warnings. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). You will get safety alerts by email/text and it will help us find you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Côte d’Ivoire. 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. Northern Border Region – Level 4: Do Not Travel The main terrorist threat to Côte d’Ivoire is from a group called Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM). JNIM is linked to al-Qa’ida. JNIM mostly operates in the Sahel region, including Burkina Faso and Mali. The threat from JNIM has in the past reached northern Côte d’Ivoire, near the border with Burkina Faso. Attacks have happened in the Savanes and Zanzan Districts, including Comoé National Park. These attacks have mainly targeted Ivoirian security forces, but civilians have also been targeted. In 2021, Al-Qa’ida in the Lands of the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) carried out 17 small-scale attacks that killed approximately 20 people. After these attacks, the Côte d’Ivoire government increased security in northern Côte d’Ivoire. Since 2021, there have been no attacks.
Botswana
|
February 26, 2024
•[ caution ]
Updated to include information on crime. Exercise increased caution in Botswana due to crime. Country Summary: Crimes of opportunity, primarily the theft of money and personal property, are common in Botswana. Potentially violent crimes, such as home invasions, break-ins, “smash and grabs” from vehicles stopped at intersections and from locked cars in shopping mall parking lots, cell phone thefts, and muggings are routinely reported to police. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Botswana. If you decide to travel to Botswana: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable) and leave originals in your hotel safe. Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Botswana. 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.
Eritrea
|
July 31, 2023
•[ caution ]
Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution in Eritrea due to travel restrictions, limited consular assistance, landmines, and wrongful detentions. Country Summary: The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Eritrea, as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel outside of Asmara. U.S. citizens visiting or residing in Eritrea, including dual U.S.-Eritrean nationals, have been arrested and detained without charge or on false charges. The Department has determined that the risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals by the Eritrean government exists. Eritrean law enforcement officials routinely block access by U.S. government officials to U.S. citizens in detention. The U.S. Embassy therefore may not receive notification of your arrest or be allowed access to you if you are detained or arrested. There are landmines in many remote areas in Eritrea, particularly in Nakfa, AdiKeih, Arezza, the 25 mile-wide region (40 km) between the Setit and Mereb Rivers, and in areas north and west of Keren, areas near Massawa, Ghinda, Agordat, Barentu, Dekemhare, and south of Tessenae. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Eritrea. If you decide to travel to Eritrea: Use caution when walking and hiking in remote areas or off main roads. Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location. 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 Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Eritrea. 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.
Ethiopia
|
July 31, 2023
•[ reconsider ]
Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Reconsider travel to Ethiopia due to sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, crime, communications disruptions, terrorism and kidnapping in border areas. Do Not Travel To: Tigray Region and border with Eritrea due to sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, and crime. Afar-Tigray border areas due to sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, and crime. Amhara Region due to sporadic violent conflict and civil unrest. Gambella and Benishangul Gumuz Regions due to crime, kidnapping, ethnically motivated violence, and sporadic violent conflict Oromia Region – Specific areas due to sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, and ethnically motivated violence. Southern Nations and National People (SNNP) Region due to sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, and ethnically motivated violence. Border area with Somalia due to terrorism, kidnapping, and landmines. Border areas with Sudan, and South Sudan due to crime, kidnapping, civil unrest, and sporadic violent conflict. Border areas with Kenya due to the potential for terrorism and ethnically motivated violence. The security situation in Addis Ababa is stable. However, there is sporadic violent conflict and civil unrest in other areas of Ethiopia, and the security situation may deteriorate without warning. The U.S. Embassy is unlikely to be able to assist with departure from the country if the security situation deteriorates. Due to sporadic violent conflict and civil unrest throughout parts of Ethiopia, travel by U.S. government personnel is routinely assessed for additional restrictions. Please see information on What the Department of State Can and Can't Do in a Crisis. U.S. officials have limited ability to provide services to U.S. citizens outside of Addis Ababa and have very limited consular access to U.S. citizens detained by Ethiopian authorities. The government of Ethiopia has previously restricted or shut down internet, cellular data, and phone services before, during, and after civil unrest. These restrictions impede the U.S. Embassy’s ability to communicate with and provide consular services to U.S. citizens in Ethiopia. Please contact the Embassy’s American Citizen Services Unit at AddisACS@state.gov for further assistance. Read the country information page for additional information about travel to Ethiopia. If you decide to travel to Ethiopia: Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans. Be aware of your surroundings. Stay alert in locations frequented by U.S. citizens/Westerners/foreign travelers. Carry a copy of your passport and visa and leave originals in your hotel safe. Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Ethiopia. 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. Tigray Region and Border with Eritrea – Do Not Travel Due to sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, and crime, the Tigray Region and the border with Eritrea are restricted for travel by U.S. government personnel, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity and priority diplomatic engagement efforts. Border roads with Eritrea are closed and conditions at the border may change with no warning. Afar-Tigray Border Area – Do Not Travel Due to sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, and crime, the Afar-Tigray border area is restricted for travel by U.S. government personnel, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity and priority diplomatic engagement efforts. Amhara Region – Do Not Travel Due to sporadic violent conflict and civil unrest, the Amhara Region is currently off-limits for U.S. government personnel, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity and priority diplomatic engagement efforts. Gambella Region – Do Not Travel Due to crime, kidnapping, the potential for ethnically motivated violence, and sporadic violent conflict, the Gambella Region is restricted for travel by U.S. government personnel, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity and priority diplomatic engagement efforts. Benishangul Gumuz Region – Do Not Travel Due to crime, kidnapping, the potential for ethnically motivated violence and sporadic violent conflict, the Benishangul Gumuz Region is restricted for travel by U.S. government personnel, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity and priority diplomatic engagement efforts. Oromia Region – Specific Areas – Do Not Travel Due to sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, and ethnically motivated violence, the following zones in Oromia are restricted for travel by U.S. government personnel, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity and priority diplomatic engagement efforts: the entirety of Horro-Guduru Wollega, East Wollega, West Wollega, Kelem Wollega, Illubabor, and Bale. Other areas in Oromia include portions of North, West, and Southwest Shewa to the immediate north and west of Addis Ababa; the Boset and Fentale woredas of East Shewa zone between Welenchiti and Awash; portions of the Borena zone surrounding Bule Hora; and portions of Guji zone to the east of Bule Hora. Southern Nations and National People (SNNP) Region – Specific Areas – Do Not Travel Due to sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, and ethnically motivated violence the following towns and areas in SNNP are restricted for travel by U.S. government personnel, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity and priority diplomatic engagement efforts: Gedeo, Konso zones and the Amaro and Derashe special woredas. Border Area with Somalia – Do Not Travel Terrorists maintain a presence in Somali towns near the Ethiopian border, presenting a risk of cross-border attacks and kidnappings. Landmines are present in this region. U.S. government personnel are not permitted to travel to the border areas with Somalia, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity efforts. Border Areas with Sudan and South Sudan – Do Not Travel Crime, kidnapping, the potential for ethnically motivated violence, and sporadic violent conflict exist near the Ethiopian borders with Sudan and South Sudan. This includes but is not limited to the Nuer Zone and the Jore Woreda of the Agnuak Zone in the Gambela region, and the Pawe, Guba, Dangur, Dibati, and Bulen woredas, and the Metekel zone in the Benishangul Gumuz Region. U.S. government personnel are not permitted to travel to the border areas of Sudan and South Sudan, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity efforts. Border Areas with Kenya – Do Not Travel Terrorists, particularly Al-Shabaab, maintain a presence in this area, and ethnically motivated violence has been reported. This includes but is not limited to the Borena zone and surrounding areas. U.S. government personnel are not permitted to travel to the border areas with Kenya, with limited exceptions to support humanitarian capacity efforts. Visit our website for advice if you decide to Travel to High-Risk Areas.
Liberia
|
July 31, 2023
•[ caution ]
Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution in Liberia due to crime and civil unrest. Country summary: Violent crime, such as armed robbery, is common, particularly in urban areas and on public beaches. Local police lack the resources to respond effectively to serious crimes. Demonstrations occur regularly and have on occasion resulted in violence or use of tear gas by authorities. If traveling in Liberia, make all efforts to complete your travel during daylight hours due to increased safety hazards at night. U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling outside the capital or between counties after dark (with the exception of travel to and from Roberts International Airport). Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Liberia. If you decide to travel to Liberia: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier for the Embassy to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Liberia. 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.
Mali
|
July 31, 2023
•[ warning ]
Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Do not travel to Mali due to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. Country Summary: Violent crime, such as kidnapping and armed robbery, is common in Mali. Violent crime is a particular concern during local holidays and seasonal events in Bamako, its suburbs, and Mali’s southern regions. Roadblocks and random police checkpoints are commonplace throughout the country, especially at night. Terrorist and armed groups continue plotting kidnappings and attacks in Mali. They may attack with little or no warning, targeting night clubs, hotels, restaurants, places of worship, international diplomatic missions, and other locations frequented by foreigners. Attacks may target Malian government offices and infrastructure, in addition to locations frequented by Westerners. The U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens throughout much of Mali as U.S. government employee travel outside Bamako is restricted due to security concerns. Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Mali, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM). 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 Mali. If you decide to travel to Mali: Visit our website for 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 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. Establish your own personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization, or consider consulting with a professional security organization. Develop a communication plan with family and/or your employer or host organization 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 they should share the information. Identify key sources of possible assistance for you and your family in case of emergency, such as the local U.S. embassy or consulate, FBI, the State Department, your employer (if traveling on business), and local friends/family in the high-risk area. Be sure to appoint one family member to serve as the point of contact with hostage-takers, media, U.S. and host country government agencies, and Members of Congress if you are taken hostage or detained. Establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones so that, if you are taken hostage, your loved ones will know specific questions and answers to ask the hostage-takers to be sure 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. Guard your passport and wallet when in crowded outdoor areas and open-air markets. Be vigilant for pickpockets, especially at night. Use all available safety measures in your home or hotel, including locking doors and windows at all times, and setting the alarm. If asked to stop by police, stop only in well-lit areas or places where several officers are posted. 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. 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 Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Mali. 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.
Zambia
|
July 31, 2023
•[ normal ]
Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Zambia. Read the country information page for additional information about travel to Zambia. If you decide to travel to Zambia: 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 Twitter. Follow the U.S. Embassy in Zambia on Facebook and Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Zambia. 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.
Cambodia
|
July 24, 2023
•[ normal ]
Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Cambodia. Some areas have increased risks. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Exercise increased precautions in: Phnom Penh due to crime. Very remote areas of Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Pursat, Siem Reap, Pailin, and Kampong Thom provinces due to land mines. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Cambodia. If you decide to travel to Cambodia: 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 Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Cambodia. · 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. Phnom Penh – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution Street crime, particularly phone and bag snatchings, occurs frequently in areas where foreigners gather; resistance can result in injury. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and to be extra vigilant when displaying items like jewelry, bags and cell phones in public. Violent crime, such as sexual assault and homicide, is common, sometimes against foreigners. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Use caution when walking or driving at night. Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Pursat, Siem Reap, Pailin, and Kampong Thom provinces – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution Land mines and unexploded ordnance are found in very 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.
Zimbabwe
|
June 27, 2023
•[ caution ]
Reissued after periodic review with updates to crime and civil unrest information. Exercise increased caution in Zimbabwe due to crime and official harassment of U.S. citizens. Country Summary: Opportunistic crime, such as pickpocketing, theft, and smashing of car windows with intent to steal, is common. Violent crime, such as assault, carjacking, and home invasion, also occurs. Criminals often target foreigners and residents suspected of having large sums of cash. Demonstrations may occur and increase in frequency around political events, such as elections. Large gatherings are often restricted by the government and can quickly escalate to violence. Foreigners, journalists, and non-governmental organizations may be subject to heightened scrutiny in Zimbabwe. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Zimbabwe. If you decide to travel to Zimbabwe: Stay alert and avoid openly displaying cash. Carry a copy of your passport and visa and leave originals in your hotel safe. Stay away from political rallies, demonstrations, and crowds. Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans. 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. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Zimbabwe. 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.
Sudan
|
April 22, 2023
•[ warning ]
Reissued with updates to the security situation and post departure status. Do not travel to Sudan due to armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. On April 22, 2023, the U.S. Embassy in Khartoum suspended its operations, and the Department of State ordered the departure of U.S. direct hire employees and eligible family members from Embassy Khartoum due to the continued threat of armed conflict in Sudan. The U.S. government cannot provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Sudan, due to the current security situation. Armed conflict is ongoing throughout Sudan and includes heavy fighting between various political and security groups. The situation is violent, volatile, and extremely unpredictable, particularly in the capital city Khartoum. Electrical and communication disruptions, including internet and cell phone service, can occur at any time. Khartoum International Airport and Sudan’s border with Chad are currently closed. Country Summary: Armed conflict, crime, such as kidnapping, armed robbery, home invasion, and carjacking occur. Members of known terrorist groups and individuals sympathetic to these groups in Sudan could attack with little or no warning, targeting foreign and local government facilities, and areas frequented by Westerners. Violence continues along the border between Chad and Sudan and areas that border South Sudan (including the disputed Abyei area). Armed opposition groups are active in Central Darfur state and parts of Blue Nile and South Kordofan states. Intercommunal clashes can occur throughout the country and can result in the declaration of localized States of Emergency. Read the country information page for additional information about travel to Sudan. If you decide to travel to Sudan: Exercise extreme care in all parts of the country, including Khartoum. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Have a personal emergency action plan that does not rely on U.S. government assistance. Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans. Be aware of your surroundings. Stay alert in areas frequented by Westerners. 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, log-in information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States. Find a suggested list of such documents here. Develop a communication plan with family and/or your employer or host organization so that they can monitor your safety and location as you travel through Sudan. This plan should specify who you would contact first, and how they should share the information. Avoid demonstrations and public gatherings. Even events intended to be peaceful can become violent. 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 Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Sudan. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
