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
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
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
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December 6, 2024
•[ normal ]
Updated to add Petit Saint Vincent to the list of islands affected by Hurricane Beryl in July 2024. Exercise normal precautions in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The islands of Canouan, Mayreau, Palm Island, Petit Saint Vincent, and Union Island are in varying stages of recovery from Hurricane Beryl. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. If you decide to travel to St. Vincent and the Grenadines: 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 the Eastern Caribbean, which includes Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 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. Canouan, Mayreau, Palm Island, Petit Saint Vincent, and Union Island In July 2024, Hurricane Beryl damaged many buildings on these islands. Until repairs are complete, fewer hotels and transportation options may be available. Contact your destination before traveling to these islands
Fiji
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December 2, 2024
•[ normal ]
Reissued after periodic review without changes. Exercise normal precautions in Fiji. Some areas have increased risks. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Fiji. If you decide to travel to Fiji: 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 Fiji. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and to be extra vigilant when displaying items like jewelry, bags and cell phones in public. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Use caution when walking or driving at night. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. Colo I Suva Forest Park - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution Crime along the trails, particularly phone and bag snatchings, occurs frequently in areas where foreigners gather; resistance can result in injury.
French Polynesia
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December 2, 2024
•[ normal ]
Reissued after periodic review without changes Exercise normal precautions in French Polynesia. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to French Polynesia. If you decide to travel to French Polynesia: 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 French Polynesia. 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.
Kiribati
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December 2, 2024
•[ normal ]
Reissued after periodic review without changes. Exercise normal precautions in Kiribati. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Kiribati. Commercial transportation to/from Kiribati is sporadically available. If you decide to travel to Kiribati: Monitor local media. Bring a sufficient supply of over-the-counter and prescription medicines. 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 Kiribati. 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.
Kosovo
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December 2, 2024
•[ caution ]
Last Update: Reissued after periodic review with minor edits Exercise increased caution due to terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Reconsider Travel To: North Mitrovica, Leposavic, Zubin Potok, and Zvecan. Due to ethnic tensions, these areas have a potential risk for civil unrest. Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting attacks in the Balkans region, including Kosovo. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. They may target: High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists Places of worship Schools Parks Tourism infrastructure Shopping malls and markets Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Kosovo. If you decide to travel to Kosovo: Avoid demonstrations. Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners. Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Kosovo. 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. North Mitrovica, Leposavic, Zubin Potok, and Zvecan – Level 3: Reconsider Travel Recent unrest has been politically related. While it has not impacted tourists or members of the international community, there is a risk that bystanders can be affected. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the north of Kosovo as U.S. government employee travel to North Mitrovica, Leposavic, Zubin Potok, and Zvecan is restricted. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas
Nauru
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December 2, 2024
•[ normal ]
Reissued after periodic review without changes. Exercise normal precautions in Nauru. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Nauru If you decide to travel to Nauru: 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 Nauru. 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.
Tonga
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December 2, 2024
•[ normal ]
Reissued after periodic review without changes. Exercise normal precautions in Tonga. Read the Country Information page for additional information on travel to Tonga. If you decide to travel to Tonga: 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 Tonga. U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. Obey all instructions from local authorities. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Notice related to your travel.
Tuvalu
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December 2, 2024
•[ normal ]
Reissued after periodic review without changes. Exercise normal precautions in Tuvalu. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Tuvalu. Commercial transportation to/from Tuvalu is sporadically available. If you decide to travel to Tuvalu: 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 Tuvalu. 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.
Moldova
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November 29, 2024
•[ caution ]
Reissued after periodic review with minor edits. Exercise increased caution while traveling to Moldova. This is due to unresolved conflict between the breakaway region of Transnistria and the central government. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Country Summary: There have been reports of debris from airborne projectiles landing in Moldova, however there is no indication that Moldova is being targeted in Russia's war against Ukraine. The Chisinau airport is operating normally although there are no flights available to or from Belarus, Russia or Ukraine. Read the Moldova country information page for additional information on travel. If you decide to travel to Moldova: 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 Moldova. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. Transnistria – Level 3: Reconsider Travel Transnistria. There is also military conflict in nearby Ukraine. Transnistria is a region that is not under the control of the Moldovan government. Visitors must show identification to cross into Transnistria. Those without a Moldovan government-issued identification document will have to show a passport. Visitors may also have to show ID such as a passport at checkpoints. This is at roads leading into and out of the region. Ukraine has closed its border crossing points into the Transnistrian region. Taking photographs of military facilities and security forces is not allowed and may result in trouble with authorities. The U.S. government’s ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens traveling in Transnistria maybe be limited or delayed since Transnistria’s de facto authorities control access to the region. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
China
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November 27, 2024
•[ caution ]
Exercise increased cautionin China due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including in relation to exit bans. The People’s Republic of China (PRC) government arbitrarily enforces local laws, including exit bans on U.S. citizens and citizens of other countries, without fair and transparent process under the law. Foreigners in the PRC, including but not limited to businesspeople, former foreign-government personnel, academics, relatives of PRC citizens involved in legal disputes, and journalists have been interrogated and detained by PRC officials for alleged violations of PRC national security laws. The PRC has also interrogated, detained, and expelled U.S. citizens living and working in the PRC. U.S. citizens traveling or residing in the PRC may be detained without access to U.S. consular services or information about their alleged crime. U.S. citizens in the PRC may be subjected to interrogations and detention without fair and transparent treatment under the law. PRC authorities have broad discretion to deem a wide range of documents, data, statistics, or materials as state secrets and to detain and prosecute foreign nationals for alleged espionage. There is increased official scrutiny of U.S. and third-country firms, such as professional service and due diligence companies, operating in the PRC. Security personnel could detain U.S. citizens or subject them to prosecution for conducting research or accessing publicly available material inside the PRC. Security personnel could detain and/or deport U.S. citizens for sending private electronic messages critical of the PRC, Hong Kong SAR, or Macau SAR governments. The PRC government has used restrictions on travel or departure from the PRC, or so-called exit bans, to: Compel individuals to participate in PRC government investigations Pressure family members of the restricted individual to return to the PRC from abroad Resolve civil disputes in favor of PRC citizens Gain bargaining leverage over foreign governments U.S. citizens might only become aware of an exit ban when they attempt to depart the PRC, and there may be no available legal process to contest an exit ban in a court of law. Relatives, including minor children, of those under investigation in the PRC may become subject to an exit ban. The PRC government does not recognize dual nationality. Dual U.S.-PRC citizens and U.S. citizens of Chinese descent may be subject to additional scrutiny and harassment. If you are a U.S. citizen and choose to enter Mainland China on travel documents other than a U.S. passport and are detained or arrested, the PRC government may not notify the U.S. Embassy or the U.S. Consulates General or allow consular access. Check with the PRC Embassy in the United States for the most updated information on travel to the PRC. In some limited circumstances travelers to Mainland China may face additional COVID-19 testing requirements to enter some facilities or events. The Department of State does not provide or coordinate direct medical care to private U.S. citizens abroad. U.S. citizens overseas may receive PRC-approved COVID-19 vaccine doses where they are eligible. Do not consume drugs in the PRC or elsewhere prior to arriving in the PRC. A positive drug test, even if the drug was legal elsewhere, can lead to immediate detention, fines, deportation, and/or a ban from re-entering the PRC. PRC authorities may compel cooperation with blood, urine, or hair testing. Penalties for drug offenses may exceed penalties imposed in the United States. Demonstrations Participating in demonstrations or other activities that authorities interpret as constituting an act of secession, subversion, terrorism, or collusion with a foreign country could result in criminal charges. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid demonstrations. Xinjiang Uyghur autonomous region, Tibet autonomous region and Tibetan autonomous prefectures: Extra security measures, such as security checks and increased levels of police presence and surveillance, are common in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, Tibet Autonomous Region, and Tibetan Autonomous Prefectures. Authorities may impose curfews and travel restrictions on short notice.
Hong Kong
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November 27, 2024
•[ caution ]
Exercise increased caution due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws. Summary: Hong Kong SAR authorities have dramatically restricted civil liberties since the Government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) imposed the Law of the PRC on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong SAR on June 30, 2020. Following the Hong Kong SAR government’s enactment of its own Safeguarding National Security Ordinance on March 23, 2024, Hong Kong SAR authorities are expected to take additional actions to further restrict civil liberties. The 2020 National Security Law outlines a broad range of vaguely defined offenses, such as acts of secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign entities. The 2024 Safeguarding National Security Ordinance builds on this framework with additional vaguely defined offenses, such as treason, insurrection, theft of state secrets, sabotage against public infrastructure, and external interference. According to the legislation, these offenses are applicable to foreign nationals within the Hong Kong SAR and to individuals, including U.S. citizens and permanent residents, located outside its borders. Under these provisions, anyone who criticizes the PRC and/or Hong Kong SAR authorities may face arrest, detention, expulsion, and/or prosecution. Hong Kong SAR authorities are attempting to enforce these provisions against individuals, including U.S. citizens and permanent residents, residing outside their jurisdiction by offering cash rewards for information leading to their arrests in the Hong Kong SAR. Dual nationality: The Hong Kong SAR government does not recognize dual nationality. Dual U.S.-PRC citizens and U.S. citizens of Chinese descent may be subject to additional security and harassment. If you are a dual U.S.-PRC citizen and enter Hong Kong SAR on a U.S. passport, and you are detained or arrested, PRC authorities are under an obligation to notify the U.S. Embassy or a U.S. Consulate General of your detention and to allow U.S. consular officials to have access to you. In reality, however, U.S. consular officers may be prevented from providing consular assistance, even to those who have entered on their U.S. passports. For more information, visit Consular Protection and Right of Abode in HK(SAR) for Dual Nationals – U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong Macau. Demonstrations: Participating in demonstrations or other activities that authorities interpret as constituting an act of secession, subversion, terrorism, or collusion with a foreign country could result in criminal charges under the 2020 National Security Law and/or the 2024 Safeguarding National Security Ordinance. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid demonstrations. If you decide to travel to the Hong Kong SAR: Enter the Hong Kong SAR on your U.S. passport and keep it with you. Read the travel information page for the Hong Kong SAR. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid demonstrations. Exercise caution in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests. Avoid taking photographs of protesters or police without permission. Keep a low profile. If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong Macau immediately. Review the China Country Security Report from the Overseas Security Advisory Council. Do not consume drugs in the Hong Kong SAR or prior to arriving in the Hong Kong SAR. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Follow U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong Macau on Facebook and Twitter. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) page for the latest Travel Health Information related to the Hong Kong SAR. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. Monitor local media, local transportation sites, and apps like MTR Mobile or Citybus for updates. Review your flight status with your airline or at the Hong Kong International Airport website.
Macau
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November 27, 2024
•[ reconsider ]
Reconsider travel due to a limited ability to provide emergency consular services. Exercise increased caution due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws. Summary: The U.S. government has a limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Macau SAR due to People’s Republic of China (PRC) Ministry of Foreign Affairs travel restrictions on U.S. diplomatic personnel. Even in an emergency, the PRC Ministry of Foreign Affairs requires all U.S. diplomatic personnel, including those accredited to the Macau SAR, to apply for and receive visas before entering the Macau SAR. This takes at least five to seven days, significantly limiting the U.S. government’s ability to offer timely consular services in the Macau SAR. Dual nationality: The Macau SAR government does not recognize dual nationality. Dual U.S.-PRC citizens and U.S. citizens of Chinese descent may be subject to additional security and harassment. If you are a dual U.S.-PRC citizen awnd enter the Macau SAR on a U.S. passport, and you are detained or arrested, PRC authorities are under an obligation to notify the U.S. Embassy or a U.S. Consulate General of your detention and to allow U.S. consular officials to have access to you. In reality, however, U.S. consular officials may be prevented from providing consular assistance, even to those who have entered on their U.S. passports. For more information, visit Consular Protection and Right of Above in HK(SAR) for Dual Nationals – U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong Macau. Demonstrations: Participating in demonstrations or any other activities that authorities interpret as constituting an act of secession, subversion, terrorism, or collusion with a foreign country could result in criminal charges. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid demonstrations. If you decide to travel to the Macau SAR: Enter the Macau SAR on your U.S. passport and keep it with you. Read the travel information page for the Macau SAR. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and to make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid demonstrations. Exercise caution in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests. Avoid taking photographs of protesters or police without permission. Keep a low profile. If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong Macau immediately. Review the China Country Security Report from the Overseas Security Advisory Council. Do not consume drugs in the Macau SAR or prior to arriving in the Macau SAR. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Follow U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong Macau on Facebook and Twitter. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) page for the latest Travel Health Information related to the Macau SAR. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. Monitor local media and the Macau Government Tourism Office website for updates. Review your flight status with your airline or at the Macau International Airport website.
Mainland China, Hong Kong & Macau
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November 27, 2024
•[ caution ]
Updated to reflect a shift to Level 2 “Exercise increased caution” for Mainland China. Summary: Exercise increased caution when traveling to Mainland China due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including in relation to exit bans. Exercise increased caution when traveling to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws. Reconsider travel to the Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) due to a limited ability to provide emergency consular services. Exercised increased caution when traveling to the Macau SAR due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws. See specific risks and conditions in each jurisdiction. Macau Reconsider travel due to a limited ability to provide emergency consular services. Exercise increased caution due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws. Summary: The U.S. government has a limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Macau SAR due to People’s Republic of China (PRC) Ministry of Foreign Affairs travel restrictions on U.S. diplomatic personnel. Even in an emergency, the PRC Ministry of Foreign Affairs requires all U.S. diplomatic personnel, including those accredited to the Macau SAR, to apply for and receive visas before entering the Macau SAR. This takes at least five to seven days, significantly limiting the U.S. government’s ability to offer timely consular services in the Macau SAR. Dual nationality: The Macau SAR government does not recognize dual nationality. Dual U.S.-PRC citizens and U.S. citizens of Chinese descent may be subject to additional security and harassment. If you are a dual U.S.-PRC citizen awnd enter the Macau SAR on a U.S. passport, and you are detained or arrested, PRC authorities are under an obligation to notify the U.S. Embassy or a U.S. Consulate General of your detention and to allow U.S. consular officials to have access to you. In reality, however, U.S. consular officials may be prevented from providing consular assistance, even to those who have entered on their U.S. passports. For more information, visit Consular Protection and Right of Above in HK(SAR) for Dual Nationals – U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong Macau. Demonstrations: Participating in demonstrations or any other activities that authorities interpret as constituting an act of secession, subversion, terrorism, or collusion with a foreign country could result in criminal charges. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid demonstrations. If you decide to travel to the Macau SAR: Enter the Macau SAR on your U.S. passport and keep it with you. Read the travel information page for the Macau SAR. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and to make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid demonstrations. Exercise caution in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests. Avoid taking photographs of protesters or police without permission. Keep a low profile. If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong Macau immediately. Review the China Country Security Report from the Overseas Security Advisory Council. Do not consume drugs in the Macau SAR or prior to arriving in the Macau SAR. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Follow U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong Macau on Facebook and Twitter. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) page for the latest Travel Health Information related to the Macau SAR. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. Monitor local media and the Macau Government Tourism Office website for updates. Review your flight status with your airline or at the Macau International Airport website.
Mainland China, Hong Kong & Macau
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November 27, 2024
•[ caution ]
Updated to reflect a shift to Level 2 “Exercise increased caution” for Mainland China. Summary: Exercise increased caution when traveling to Mainland China due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including in relation to exit bans. Exercise increased caution when traveling to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws. Reconsider travel to the Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) due to a limited ability to provide emergency consular services. Exercised increased caution when traveling to the Macau SAR due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws. See specific risks and conditions in each jurisdiction. Hong Kong Exercise increased caution due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws. Summary: Hong Kong SAR authorities have dramatically restricted civil liberties since the Government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) imposed the Law of the PRC on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong SAR on June 30, 2020. Following the Hong Kong SAR government’s enactment of its own Safeguarding National Security Ordinance on March 23, 2024, Hong Kong SAR authorities are expected to take additional actions to further restrict civil liberties. The 2020 National Security Law outlines a broad range of vaguely defined offenses, such as acts of secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign entities. The 2024 Safeguarding National Security Ordinance builds on this framework with additional vaguely defined offenses, such as treason, insurrection, theft of state secrets, sabotage against public infrastructure, and external interference. According to the legislation, these offenses are applicable to foreign nationals within the Hong Kong SAR and to individuals, including U.S. citizens and permanent residents, located outside its borders. Under these provisions, anyone who criticizes the PRC and/or Hong Kong SAR authorities may face arrest, detention, expulsion, and/or prosecution. Hong Kong SAR authorities are attempting to enforce these provisions against individuals, including U.S. citizens and permanent residents, residing outside their jurisdiction by offering cash rewards for information leading to their arrests in the Hong Kong SAR. Dual nationality: The Hong Kong SAR government does not recognize dual nationality. Dual U.S.-PRC citizens and U.S. citizens of Chinese descent may be subject to additional security and harassment. If you are a dual U.S.-PRC citizen and enter Hong Kong SAR on a U.S. passport, and you are detained or arrested, PRC authorities are under an obligation to notify the U.S. Embassy or a U.S. Consulate General of your detention and to allow U.S. consular officials to have access to you. In reality, however, U.S. consular officers may be prevented from providing consular assistance, even to those who have entered on their U.S. passports. For more information, visit Consular Protection and Right of Abode in HK(SAR) for Dual Nationals – U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong Macau. Demonstrations: Participating in demonstrations or other activities that authorities interpret as constituting an act of secession, subversion, terrorism, or collusion with a foreign country could result in criminal charges under the 2020 National Security Law and/or the 2024 Safeguarding National Security Ordinance. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid demonstrations. If you decide to travel to the Hong Kong SAR: Enter the Hong Kong SAR on your U.S. passport and keep it with you. Read the travel information page for the Hong Kong SAR. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid demonstrations. Exercise caution in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests. Avoid taking photographs of protesters or police without permission. Keep a low profile. If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong Macau immediately. Review the China Country Security Report from the Overseas Security Advisory Council. Do not consume drugs in the Hong Kong SAR or prior to arriving in the Hong Kong SAR. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Follow U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong Macau on Facebook and Twitter. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) page for the latest Travel Health Information related to the Hong Kong SAR. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. Monitor local media, local transportation sites, and apps like MTR Mobile or Citybus for updates. Review your flight status with your airline or at the Hong Kong International Airport website.
Montenegro
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November 26, 2024
•[ normal ]
Reissued after periodic review without changes. Exercise normal precautions in Montenegro. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Montenegro. If you decide to travel to Montenegro: 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 Montenegro. 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.
Laos
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November 21, 2024
•[ caution ]
Reissued after periodic review with minor changes. Exercise increased caution to Laos due to civil unrest. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Reconsider travel to: Xaisomboun Province due to civil unrest. Exercise increased caution in: Remote areas along the border with Burma due to crime. Areas of Savannakhet, Xieng Khouang, Saravane, Khammouane, Sekong, Champassak, Houaphan, Attapeu, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane provinces, as well as along Route 7 (from Route 13 to the Vietnam border), Route 9 (Savannakhet to the Vietnam border), and Route 20 (Pakse to Saravane) due to unexploded bombs. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Laos. If you decide to travel to Laos: Do not touch unknown metal objects and avoid traveling off well-used roads, tracks, and paths due to risk of unexploded ordnance. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Laos. 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. Xaisomboun Province – Level 3: Reconsider Travel 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 Xiasomboun Province as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel there. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Areas on the Border with Burma – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution Bandits, drug traffickers, and other people pursuing illegal activities operate in these areas, as do armed groups opposed to the Burmese government. Areas of Savannakhet, Xieng Khouang, Saravane, Khammouane, Sekong, Champassak, Houaphan, Attapeu, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane provinces, as well as along Route 7 – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution There are large numbers of unexploded bombs in these areas left over from the Indochina War.
Ukraine
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November 14, 2024
•[ warning ]
Reissued with updates after periodic review. Do not travel to Ukraine due to Russia’s war against Ukraine. The Department of State continues to advise U.S. citizens to not travel to frontline regions of Ukraine and areas along Ukraine’s border with Belarus due to presence of Russian and Belarusian military and security forces on the Belarusian side of the border, proximity to active ground combat, frequent shelling, missile and drone attacks on populated areas and civilian infrastructure, and limitations on the Embassy’s ability to provide assistance to U.S. citizens in those areas. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Some regions may have lower level of risk due to air defense capabilities and distance from active combat zones. Level 3: Reconsider Travel to the regions of Volyn, Lviv, Zakarpattia, Ivano-Frankivsk, Chernivtsi, Ternopil, Rivne, Khmelnytskyi and Zhytomyr. Russia’s unprovoked full-scale invasion of Ukraine continues, and even non-frontline regions remain subject to Russian missile and drone attacks. Travelers should react to air alerts and seek appropriate shelter. The security situation can change quickly, and travelers should be prepared to depart immediately with little to no warning. Closed airspace restricts travel options, and non-frontline regions are still subject to martial law restrictions, such as a nationwide curfew. U.S. government employees are subject to movement, curfew, and activity restrictions that may be more limited than Ukrainian government restrictions under martial law. All U.S. citizens should carefully monitor U.S. government notices and local and international media outlets for information about changing security conditions and alerts to shelter in place. The security situation in Ukraine remains unpredictable. U.S. citizens in Ukraine should stay vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness in the event of military attacks. Download and turn on notifications for free mobile applications – which U.S. government personnel in Ukraine are required to have and monitor – that announce air alerts in real time, such as Air Raid Siren and Alarm Map. The U.S. Embassy does not have the ability to provide real-time alerts to the general U.S. citizen community of air threats. Know the location of your closest shelter at all times. In the event of mortar, missile, drone, or rocket fire, follow instructions from local authorities and seek shelter immediately. If you feel your current location is no longer safe, you should carefully assess the potential risks involved in moving to a different location. On February 24, 2022, the Ukrainian government declared a state of emergency. Each region (oblast) decides on measures to be implemented according to local conditions. Measures could include curfews, restrictions on the freedom of movement, ID verification, and increased security inspections, among other measures. Follow any oblast-specific state of emergency measures. Ukrainian law does not recognize dual nationality, and Ukraine will not recognize your U.S. citizenship if you are also a citizen of Ukraine. Dual citizens will be treated as Ukrainian citizens while in Ukraine and will be required to use a Ukrainian passport upon entry and exit of the country. Men aged 18-60 with Ukrainian citizenship are also subject to exit restrictions and possible mobilization during the period of martial law. The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv has received numerous reports of dual U.S.-Ukrainian citizens encountering significant difficulties both entering and exiting Ukraine. Travelers with family ties to Ukraine should consult the nearest Ukrainian Embassy or Consulate regarding potential citizenship obligations before entering Ukraine. For more information on traveling with dual nationality, please visit our Travelers with Dual Nationality page. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) prohibiting U.S. aviation operations into, out of, within, or over Ukraine. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the FAA’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices. U.S. citizens seeking assistance, including routine services, should email KyivACS@state.gov. Please review what the U.S. government can and cannot do to assist you in a crisis overseas. The Embassy is open and operating in Kyiv; however, Embassy personnel are subject to movement, curfew, and activity restrictions, which may cause delays in provision of consular assistance to U.S. citizens outside of Kyiv. Occupied Territories: Most of the international community, including the United States and Ukraine, do not recognize Russia’s purported annexation of Crimea in 2014, nor the September 2022 purported annexation of four other Ukrainian oblasts -- Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia. There is extensive Russian Federation military presence in many parts of these oblasts. There are also abuses against foreigners and the local population by the occupation authorities in these regions, particularly against those who are seen as challenging Russia’s occupation. There are instances of Russian forces and their proxies singling out U.S. citizens in Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine for detention, interrogation, or harassment because of their nationality. U.S. citizens have also been singled out when evacuating by land through Russia-occupied territory or to Russia or Belarus. Although Russia’s occupation severely restricts the Embassy’s access and ability to provide services in these areas, the Department of State and the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv continue to remotely provide certain emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Crimea as well as four other Ukrainian oblasts partially occupied by Russia – Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Ukraine. Travel to High-Risk Areas: If you choose to travel to Ukraine, you should consider taking the following steps: Visit our website on Travel to High-Risk areas. Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney. Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc. Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States. Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them. 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 who you would contact first and how they should share the information. Enroll your trip in the State Department’s 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. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. If you are currently in Ukraine: Read the Department’s country information page on Ukraine. Familiarize yourself with information on what the U.S. government can and cannot do to assist you in a crisis overseas. Have a contingency plan in place that does not rely on U.S. government assistance. Download free mobile applications to alert you of air alerts in your area such as Air Raid Siren and Alarm Map. Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your contingency plans based on the new information. Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Ensure travel documents are valid and easily accessible. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Notices related to your travel. Get a COVID vaccine to facilitate your travel. Understand the COVID testing and vaccine requirements for all countries that you will transit through to your destination. 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 Ukraine. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk areas.
Greenland
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October 29, 2024
•[ caution ]
Updated to reflect a new separate travel advisory from the Kingdom of Denmark. Exercise increased caution in Greenland due to environmental hazards posed by extreme weather conditions and limited emergency services. Country Summary: The U.S. government’s ability to provide consular services to U.S. citizens in Greenland is extremely limited. Greenland’s landscape includes vast stretches of territory remote from cities and settlements. The weather can be harsh, and resources to provide emergency services in areas distant from cities and large settlements, including search and rescue, are scarce. In some areas, search and rescue efforts could take several days to reach the site of an incident. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Greenland. If you decide to travel to Greenland: Obtain comprehensive travel, medical, and evacuation insurance; see our webpage for more information on insurance coverage abroad. Travel with a professional guide or organization, such as those that are a member of the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators, or, if organizing a private expedition, be self-sufficient. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. Understand Greenland is a self-governing part of the Kingdom of Denmark. Greenland has assumed responsibility for the administration of health, education, taxation, and family and social matters (among other competencies), meaning these matters are handled differently than in Denmark. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
