Chile
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January 16, 2025
•[ caution ]
Exercise increased caution in Chile due to crime and civil unrest. Country Summary: Street crime (e.g., muggings, pick-pocketing, theft) is common in Chile. Rates of violent crime, such as assaults, homicide, carjackings, and residential break-ins, are increasing. Large-scale demonstrations periodically occur in Santiago and other cities in Chile. Demonstrations can take place with little or no notice, and often result in disruptions to transportation, including public bus and Santiago metro services.Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Chile. If you decide to travel to Chile: Do not leave luggage unattended, even in locked vehicles. Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location. Avoid demonstrations. Follow the instructions of local authorities including movement restrictions and obey all curfews. Find a safe location and shelter in place if in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests. Review the Country Security Report for Chile. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the U.S. Embassy and Department of State on Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
French Guiana
|
January 16, 2025
•[ normal ]
Exercise normal precautions in French Guiana. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to French Guiana. If you decide to travel to French Guiana: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for French Guiana. 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.
North Macedonia
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January 14, 2025
•[ normal ]
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to North Macedonia. If you decide to travel to North Macedonia: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for North Macedonia. 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.
Afghanistan
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January 13, 2025
•[ warning ]
Reissued after periodic review with updates to reflect the security environment, immigration information, and availability of medical care. Do not travel to Afghanistan due to civil unrest, crime, terrorism, risk of wrongful detention, kidnapping, and limited health facilities. Country Summary: The U.S. Embassy in Kabul suspended operations in 2021. The U.S. government is not able to provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Afghanistan. Multiple terrorist groups are active in Afghanistan and U.S. citizens are targets of kidnapping and hostage-taking. The Taliban have harassed and detained aid and humanitarian workers. The activities of foreigners may be viewed with suspicion, and reasons for detention may be unclear. Even if you are registered with the appropriate authorities to conduct business, the risk of detention is high. The Department has determined there is a risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals in Afghanistan. Additionally, Afghan-U.S. citizens and U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) who previously supported the United States (for example, as an interpreter) in Afghanistan may be targeted for detention. The Taliban do not regularly permit the United States to conduct welfare checks on U.S. citizens in detention, including by phone. Detention can be lengthy. While in detention, U.S. citizens have limited or no access to medical attention and may be subject to physical abuse. U.S. citizens should not travel to Afghanistan for any reason, including to accompany eligible family members for relocation. U.S. citizens or LPRs do not have to be physically present in Afghanistan for their qualifying family members to receive such assistance. For further information on how to assist your family members with the immigrant visa application process or to request relocation assistance for family, please refer to our website. U.S. citizens in Afghanistan are urged to depart immediately via commercial means if possible. U.S. citizens who are seeking U.S. government assistance to depart should email complete biographic details and contact information (email and phone number), as well as U.S. passport number, to AfghanistanACS@state.gov. Basic medical care is available in major Afghan cities such as Kabul but is limited in rural areas. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Afghanistan. If you choose to disregard the Travel Advisory and travel to Afghanistan: Review your personal security plans. Be aware of your surroundings and local security developments at all times. Keep a low profile. Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans. Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible. Notify a trusted person of your travel and movement plans. Make contingency plans to leave when it is safe to do so that do not rely on U.S. government assistance. Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney. Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc. Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates and ensure you can be located in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter/X. Consider the risks involved in traveling while possessing dual U.S. - Afghan nationality. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Read the Country Security Report For Afghanistan. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
Cyprus
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January 13, 2025
•[ normal ]
Reissued after periodic review with minor edits Exercise normal precautions in Cyprus. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Country Summary: Do not attempt to enter the United Nations buffer zone at any place other than a designated crossing point. Police and UN peacekeeping forces strictly enforce this restriction. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Cyprus. If you decide to travel to Cyprus: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Cyprus. 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. Turkish Cypriot-Administered Area – Exercise increased caution The U.S. Embassy in Nicosia has limited ability to assist U.S. citizens in this area. Human rights reports show that central prison and police detention facilities in this area do not meet international standards. Since 1974, the southern part of Cyprus has been under the control of the internationally recognized Government of the Republic of Cyprus. The northern part of Cyprus, administered by Turkish Cypriots, proclaimed itself the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” (“TRNC”) in 1983. The United States does not recognize the “TRNC,” nor does any country other than Türkiye. A buffer zone, patrolled by the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus, separates the two sides. For U.S. citizen travelers: Enter and exit the island of Cyprus ONLY at Larnaca and Paphos airports or at the seaports of Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos. The Republic of Cyprus does not consider entry via Ercan Airport or by a seaport in the north to be a legal entrance or departure to Cyprus. U.S. citizens who depart the island from Ercan could have difficulty returning to the Republic of Cyprus in the future. You cannot receive a residency permit from the Republic of Cyprus to reside in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots. The Republic of Cyprus does not recognize residence permits issued by Turkish Cypriots. If you arrive to the island at a north seaport or Ercan airport or stay in the Turkish Cypriot-administered area for over 90 days, you might be subsequently denied entry into the Republic of Cyprus. The U.S. Embassy has limited ability to help U.S. citizens in need of assistance in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots as the government of the Republic of Cyprus does not control the area. Travelers should factor this consideration into their activities in this area.
New Zealand
|
January 3, 2025
•[ normal ]
Reissued after periodic review with minor edits. Exercise normal precautions in New Zealand. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to New Zealand. If you decide to travel to New Zealand: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for New Zealand. 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.
Albania
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December 31, 2024
•[ caution ]
Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution in Albania due to crime. Country Summary: Law enforcement’s ability to protect and assist travelers is limited in some areas, especially in remote regions. There has been targeted violence associated with illicit drug networks and organized crime countrywide. Travelers should remain aware of their surroundings and the extent of police and emergency services in their area. Read the country information page for additional information to Albania. If you decide to travel to Albania: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Albania. 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.
Belize
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December 30, 2024
•[ caution ]
Reissued after periodic review with minor edits. Exercise increased caution in Belize due to crime. Some areas have increased risk. Please read the entire Travel Advisory. Country Summary: Violent crime – such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder – are common even during the day and in tourist areas. A significant portion of violent crime is gang related. Due to high crime, travelers are advised to exercise caution while traveling to the south side of Belize City. Local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious crimes. Most crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Belize. If you decide to travel to Belize: Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking or driving at night. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs. Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Belize. 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. Belize City – Level 3: Reconsider Travel U.S. citizens should avoid traveling to Belize City. Historically much of the violent crime in Belize occurs in the Southside of Belize City and is gang related. This area (south of Haulover Creek Canal and continuing south to Fabers Road) does not overlap with the typical tourism areas. All visitors should maintain an elevated level of situational awareness, exercise increased caution, and practice good safety and security practices.
Guatemala
|
December 30, 2024
•[ reconsider ]
Reissued after periodic review with minor edits. Reconsider travel to Guatemala due to crime. Some areas have higher risks. Please read the full Travel Advisory. Do not travel to: San Marcos Department (except the city of San Marcos) due to crime. Huehuetenango Department (except the city of Huehuetenango) due to crime. Zone 18 in Guatemala City and the city of Villa Nueva due to crime. Country Summary: Some areas of Guatemala have problems with gangs, robbery, carjacking, drug trafficking and violence. Local law enforcement may not always respond well to serious crimes, leading to low arrest and conviction rates. While tourists are not usually targeted, they can still be victims of opportunistic crimes. Guatemala has a program called the Tourist Assistance Program (ASISTUR) that helps protect tourists. ASISTUR works with tourist police (DISETUR) in popular areas like Antigua, Lake Atitlán, Tikal, Quetzaltenango, Puerto Barrios, and Coban. They also have an emergency call center that speaks both Spanish and English. Tourist groups can request a security escort if they have safety concerns. You can call them anytime by dialing 1500 from a Guatemalan phone number or (502) 2290-2810, and you can also reach them on WhatsApp at +502-5188-1819. U.S. government employees and their families cannot travel to the San Marcos Department, Huehuetenango Department, Zone 18 in Guatemala City, or Villa Nueva. They can travel to other parts of Guatemala and visit popular places like Tikal, Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and the Pacific coast areas in the Santa Rosa and Escuintla. However, they should avoid driving outside Guatemala City at night because of poor lighting and safety risks. They may not use white car taxis or public transportation, like “chicken buses” due to the high chance of crime and injury. Check the country information page for helpful information about traveling to Guatemala. This includes information on entry and exit rules, safety, local laws, health, and getting around. Also, visit the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala City’s website for local resources, like legal help, medical services, driver’s licenses, and information on residence and work permits, as well as rules about bringing weapons into Guatemala. If you decide to travel to Guatemala: Do not travel outside Guatemala City at night because the roads are poorly lit, and there is a high risk for serious traffic accidents. When visiting Lake Atitlán, use certified tour guides and travel between villages by chartered boat. The paths around the lake can be dangerous and hard to access. Emergency services cannot arrive quickly to help. Avoid swimming in the Pacific Ocean because the currents and undertow are very strong, and there are not many lifeguards. Never leave drinks unattended in bars and restaurants and say no to invitations from strangers to private parties. Consider staying in hotels that have secure parking, doormen, and professional security staff. Use trusted taxi services like Taxis Amarillo Express, Taxi Seguro, or Uber, and only use INGUAT-approved taxis from the “SAFE” stand at the airport, hotel taxis, or vetted private drivers. Avoid public transport and white car taxis, as well as “chicken buses.” Do not hike trails or volcanoes without a qualified local guide, as robberies can happen and getting help can be difficult. Avoid using public ATMs, and do not show signs of wealth like wearing expensive watches or jewelry. Also, try not to use your phone in public. Check the Overseas Security Advisory Council’s (OSAC) Country Security Report for Guatemala. Review the Traveler’s Checklist and make a plan for emergencies. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Notice and Yellow Book on Guatemala. Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts while in Guatemala and help others find you in case of an emergency. Follow the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala on Facebook and X(Twitter) for updates. San Marcos Department – Level 4: Do Not Travel U.S. government personnel and their families may not go to the San Marcos Department for personal travel, except for the city of San Marcos itself. There is a lot of drug trafficking in this area, and many parts are controlled by drug gangs. Some towns do not have enough police, and local officers may not have the resources to handle serious crimes. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Huehuetenango Department – Level 4: Do Not Travel U.S. government personnel and their families may not go to Huehuetenango Department for personal travel, except for the city of Huehuetenango itself. There is a lot of drug trafficking in this area, and many parts are controlled by drug gangs. Some towns do not have enough police, and local officers may not have the resources to handle serious crimes. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Zone 18 in Guatemala City and the city of Villa Nueva – Level 4: Do Not Travel U.S. government personnel and their families are not allowed to travel to or through Zone 18 in Guatemala City and the city of Villa Nueva due to increased risk of crime and significant gang activity. Aside from Zone 18 and Villa Nueva, U.S. government personnel and their family members are permitted to travel throughout Guatemala City, even at night. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
Namibia
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December 23, 2024
•[ caution ]
Updated to include a risk indicator for health and updates to crime. Exercise increased caution in Namibia due to crime and health risks. Country Summary: Potentially violent crimes, such as home invasions, break-ins, muggings, and “smash and grabs” from vehicles stopped at intersections, parked near common tourist areas, or located in shopping mall parking lots are increasingly common. Crimes of opportunity, primarily the theft of money, cell phones, and personal property, are common. Namibia is sparsely-populated and many visitors travel to remote areas far from emergency services and medical facilities. Health facilities are limited and may not have adequate supplies of basic medications, especially outside of large cities. Read the Country Information Page for additional information on travel to Namibia. If you decide to travel to Namibia: Avoid walking alone, especially after dark. Do not display large amounts of cash or other valuables. Keep car doors locked and windows shut at all times. Be cautious of people appearing to request assistance by the side of the road. Use ATMs located in well-lit public places or inside a bank or other business and be cautious of anyone offering assistance in using the ATM. Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and Namibian visa or entry stamp (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location. While travel medical insurance is recommended for all travelers, local medical facilities are likely to require full payment in cash at the time of service and may otherwise deny care. Travelers to Namibia should have medical evacuation insurance. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Namibia. 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.
Cameroon
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December 18, 2024
•[ caution ]
Updated to reflect the addition of health and civil unrest indicators. Exercise increased caution in Cameroon due to armed violence, civil unrest, crime, health, kidnapping, and terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not Travel to: Northwest and Southwest Regions due to armed violence, crime, and kidnapping. North Region and parts of East and Adamawa Regions due to crime and kidnapping. Far North Region due to crime, kidnapping, and terrorism. Country Summary: Violent crime, kidnapping for ransom, armed robbery, and carjacking, is common throughout Cameroon, especially in the regions listed above. Local police lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. Civil unrest is common, with the potential for political violence. Access to health care is limited. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in North, Far North, Northwest, Southwest, and parts of Adamawa and East Regions of Cameroon due to current official travel restrictions.. Read the Country Information Page for additional information on travel to Cameroon. If you decide to travel to Cameroon: Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches, handbags, or jewelry. Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive important information from the Embassy about safety conditions in your destination country, help the Embassy contact you in an emergency, and help family and friends get in touch with you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Cameroon. 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. North, Far North, Northwest, and Southwest Regions, and parts of East and Adamawa Regions – Level 4: Do Not Travel Violent crime, including kidnapping for ransom, armed robbery, assault, and carjacking is a serious concern in Cameroon, especially in these areas. In the Adamawa Region north of the capital, Ngaoundere, and East Region, there is a heightened criminal threat within 20 kilometers of the border with the Central African Republic. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Far North Region– Level 4: Do Not Travel In the Far North Region, terrorists may attack with no warning, targeting local facilities and places frequented by Westerners. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Northwest and Southwest Regions – Level 4: Do Not Travel In Northwest and Southwest Regions, armed clashes between separatists and government forces, and other acts of violence, including violent criminality, kidnapping for ransom, sexual assault, arson, roadside ambushes and robberies, use of improvised explosive devices, illegitimate detentions, and murder have occurred. Security force operations, curfews and movement restrictions, and attacks by armed militants can take place at any time throughout these regions, including in urban areas. Ongoing violence has led to a breakdown in order and a significant decline in public services, including medical resources in large areas of both regions. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
Gabon
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December 18, 2024
•[ caution ]
Updated after periodic review to include an H indicator for health. Exercise increased caution in Gabon due to crime, civil unrest, and health. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire travel advisory. Exercise Increased Caution in: Libreville and Port Gentil due to crime, which can include robbery, vehicle break-ins, and residential burglaries. There is an increased military presence throughout Libreville and other areas of Gabon. Demonstrations may occur with little or no warning. A nighttime curfew is in effect and U.S. citizens should confirm and follow instructions of local authorities. Access to medical care is limited. Medical facilities are limited in the quality and standard of care they can provide. They may not have adequate supplies of basic medications, especially outside of large cities. Read the Country Information Page for additional information about travel to Gabon. If you decide to travel to Gabon: Respect the curfew. Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Check local media for breaking events and prepare to adjust your plans. Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible. Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance. While travel medical insurance is recommended for all travelers, local medical facilities are likely to require full payment in cash at the time of service and may otherwise deny care. Travelers to Gabon should have medical evacuation insurance. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Gabon. 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.
Vietnam
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December 16, 2024
•[ normal ]
Reissued after periodic review without changes. Exercise normal precautions in Vietnam. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Vietnam. If you decide to travel to Vietnam: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Vietnam. 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.
Nicaragua
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December 13, 2024
•[ reconsider ]
Reissued with updates to information on arbitrary enforcement of laws. Reconsider travel to Nicaragua due to arbitrary enforcement of laws, the risk of wrongful detention, and limited healthcare availability. Exercise increased caution in Nicaragua due to crime. Country Summary: The Government of Nicaragua targets individuals and organizations for political purposes. These include: NGO workers, Academics and students, Business representatives, Civil society leaders, Religious and charity workers (including foreign missionaries), Journalists, And many others. In the past year, the Government of Nicaragua has subjected U.S. citizens to arbitrary entry and exit bans, expulsions, arrests, revocations of Nicaraguan citizenship, and other actions. The Government of Nicaragua may: Arbitrarily deny entry or re-entry to Nicaragua or departure from Nicaragua to U.S. citizens and Nicaraguan citizens. This includes entry by air or land. Travel refunds are NOT provided in these cases. Denials and exit bans can occur for political reasons. This includes perceived support for or association with those the government disfavors. The government is not required to provide a basis for its denial. Search personal phones, computers, social media accounts, and documents for anti-government content. Limit photography. Seize personal devices. Target individuals for political reasons, regardless of nationality. These can include former allies, political activists, business representatives, religious and charity groups, clergy, missionaries, human rights advocates, civil society leaders, academics, and journalists. Target pro-democracy advocates and their family members. Confiscate privately-owned land, residences, financial assets, or personal property. They may do this without warning or due process. Arbitrarily detain, accuse, and charge individuals with terrorism, money laundering, or organized crime offenses. They may do this without fair or transparent processes. The Department has determined there is a risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals by the Government of Nicaragua. U.S. citizens should reconsider travel to Nicaragua, including to work for or volunteer with non-profits or religious organizations. Since 2018, the Government of Nicaragua has closed more than 5,300 civil society organizations, including religious organizations. Nicaraguan security services have arrested U.S. citizens on false charges. This includes dual U.S.-Nicaraguan citizens. Those arrested can be denied fair and transparent treatment. Convictions routinely occur in non-public trials without adequate defense or credible evidence. Nicaraguan authorities also arbitrarily enforce laws against U.S. citizen religious workers. Nicaraguan authorities have conducted questionable criminal investigations against U.S. citizens engaged in religious activity. U.S. citizens arrested in Nicaragua may be detained for long periods without charges. Judicial processes often lack transparency. This is especially true in politically motivated arrests and property disputes. Political objectives and pressure may affect the willingness of a local attorney to assist and impact the outcomes of legal processes. Prison conditions can be harsh and life-threatening. Managua has a sole private hospital that is JCAHO (Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations) accredited and certified, with labs and radiology services available, though it has a very limited number of specialists for acute emergencies. Medical services outside Managua are limited, including for victims of crime. Government hospitals are understaffed and some hospitals throughout the country may not be able to assist in emergencies. Tap water is not reliably potable. Drink only purified bottled water. Travelers should exercise increased caution and remain alert to the risks of crime. These include violent crimes such as sexual assault and armed robbery. Poor infrastructure can limit the Embassy’s emergency assistance to U.S. citizens. Travel by U.S. government personnel may be restricted at any time. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Nicaragua. If you decide to travel to Nicaragua: Consider arrangements to depart the country quickly. Ensure your U.S. passport is valid for your entire stay. Avoid demonstrations and restrict unnecessary travel. Do not attempt to drive through crowds, barricades, or roadblocks. Maintain adequate supplies of food, cash, potable water, and fuel in case you need to shelter in place. Use caution when walking or driving at night. Keep a low profile. Do not display signs of wealth such as expensive watches or jewelry. Remain aware of your surroundings. Develop a communication plan with family and/or your employer or host organization. Be prepared for the high risk of indefinite arbitrary detention on false charges without consular access. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X (formerly known as “Twitter”). Review the Country Security Report for Nicaragua. 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.
Suriname
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December 13, 2024
•[ normal ]
Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Suriname. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Suriname. If you decide to travel to Suriname: 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 Suriname. 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.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
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December 12, 2024
•[ caution ]
Exercise increased caution in Bosnia and Herzegovina due to terrorism, crime, and land mines. Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas. Theft and other crimes of opportunity are common, especially against tourists. Violent crimes, such as robbery and murder, also occur due to the availability of firearms remaining from the war. Minefields and land mines are present throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. While suspected hazardous areas are normally clearly marked, several people are killed or injured each year. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina. If you decide to travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina: Be aware of your surroundings and maintain situational awareness when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues. Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information. Remain on hard-surfaced roads and stay out of abandoned buildings due to risks from land mines. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Bosnia and Herzegovina. 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 Check
Guinea
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December 12, 2024
•[ caution ]
Updated to reflect change in Travel Advisory from a Level 3 to a Level 2 and removing the “E” (time-limited event) indicator related to the catastrophic 2023 fuel depot explosion and its after-effects. Exercise increased caution in Guinea due to crime, civil unrest, and inadequate health infrastructure. Country Summary: There is considerable risk of crimes of opportunity in Guinea, especially in Conakry, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, theft of valuables from vehicles, assaults, and residential burglaries. Travelers should be especially alert in crowded areas where people congregate, such as markets. Demonstrations and protests occur unpredictably in Guinea and occasionally result in violence. If traveling outside the Conakry peninsula, make all efforts to complete your travel before nightfall. There are increased safety hazards and security concerns at night. U.S. government employees under Chief of Mission authority are restricted from traveling between cities after dark and are unable to provide emergency services at night. Guinea’s health infrastructure is inadequate. Health services, hygiene, and quality control do not meet U.S. standards of care. Local drinking water is unsafe, pharmacies are not well regulated, locally available medications may be unsafe, and necessary healthcare may not be available. Read the country information page for additional information about travel to Guinea. If you decide to travel to Guinea: Use caution when walking or driving at night. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry. Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. 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, Instagram, and X. Review the Country Security Report for Guinea. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Costa Rica
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December 10, 2024
•[ caution ]
Exercise increased cautionin Costa Rica due to crime. Petty crime is common throughout Costa Rica. Violent crime also affects tourists. This includes armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault.
Honduras
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December 10, 2024
•[ reconsider ]
Reconsider travel to Honduras due to crime. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do not travel to: Gracias a Dios Department, most eastern department, due to crime. Country Summary: Violent crime, such as homicide, armed robbery, and kidnapping, remains common. Violent gang activity, such as extortion, violent street crime, rape, narcotics, and human trafficking, is widespread. Local authorities may lack sufficient resources to respond effectively to serious crime incidents. Around resort areas in the Bay Islands, which include Roatan, Utila, and Guanaja, there is a concentration of resources, and these areas are better policed. Demonstrations occur regularly throughout the country and can be about a variety of political or economic issues. Protests, demonstrations, tire burnings, and roadblocks are frequent, unpredictable, and can turn violent. They can shutdown roads and highways, often without prior notice or estimated reopening timelines. In December 2022, the Government of Honduras declared a “State of Exception” in response to high levels of extortion and other crimes. The declaration remains in effect and has been modified to include more cities. It allows the police to suspend constitutional rights in 226 of the country’s 298 municipalities. The Honduran Ministry of Health declared in June 2024 a national emergency in Honduras due to an increase in dengue cases. The Ministry of Health has carried out dengue prevention, control, and surveillance activities, along with the promotion of preventive measures through the media and educational campaigns. It also carried out clean-up operations and campaigns, including the use of chemical and biological agents for vector control. Please review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website and CDC Global Dengue for further information. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Honduras. If you decide to travel to Honduras: Avoid demonstrations. Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking or driving at night. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs. Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry. Do not take public transportation, including white car taxis. U.S. government personnel and their family members are prohibited from using these forms of transportation. Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Honduras. 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. Gracias a Dios Department – Level 4: Do Not Travel U.S. government personnel and family members are restricted from traveling to Gracias a Dios, the most eastern department. The department is an isolated region with high levels of criminal activity. Narcotics trafficking is widespread, and large portions of the department are particularly vulnerable to drug trafficking organizations. Infrastructure is weak, government services are limited, and police and military presence is scarce. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas
Malawi
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December 6, 2024
•[ caution ]
Reissued after periodic review without changes. Exercise increased caution in Malawi due to crime and civil unrest. Country Summary: Violent crime such as theft, burglary, armed robbery, and assault is common. The capabilities of the Malawi Police Service are growing but its resources and abilities to deter and investigate crimes, assist victims, and apprehend criminals are limited. Demonstrations may occur and increase in frequency due to political issues and events such as elections. Tear gas is frequently deployed at demonstrations and roads may be blocked. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Malawi. If you decide to travel to Malawi: Avoid 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 security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Malawi. 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. U.S. citizens are reminded to avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones, that could turn violent with little or no warning.
