Search Results for "caution"

Costa Rica | 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.

Kosovo | 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

Moldova | 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 | 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 | 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.

Mainland China, Hong Kong & Macau | 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 | 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.

Laos | 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.

Greenland | 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.

Tunisia | October 23, 2024 • [ caution ] Reissued to update information to high-risk areas, country summary, and the “If you decide to travel” section, and Level 4 “Do Not Travel” areas. Exercise increased caution in Tunisia due to terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do not travel to: Within 16 km of the Algerian border due to terrorism, except for the cities of Tabarka and Ain Draham. Within 16 km of the border with Libya due to terrorism. The Mount Chaambi National Park, Mount Salloum, Mount Sammamma, and Mount Mghila in Kasserine governorate due to terrorism. The Mount Orbata area in the Gafsa governorate due to terrorism. The desert south of Remada due to the military zone. Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Tunisia. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, museums, resorts, hotels, festivals, nightclubs, restaurants, religious sites, markets/shopping malls, government facilities and security forces. A country-wide state of emergency, which grants security forces more authority to maintain civil order and enables the government to focus on combating terrorism, is in effect. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in some areas of Tunisia. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Tunisia. If you decide to travel to Tunisia: Exercise caution when using public transportation, due to safety and security concerns. Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans. Avoid staying overnight outside of the main cities and tourist locations. Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage valid for Tunisia. When entering or transiting through Tunisia, do not bring in Tunisian currency in any amount and avoid bringing in any foreign currency, including dollars, over TND 10,000 (about $3,000 USD). Upon departure, including transit through Tunisia, travelers leaving Tunisia must declare any currency amounts above TND 5,000 (about $1,600 USD) if they wish to export or depart with that amount. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow U.S. Embassy Tunis on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X, and YouTube, and the Department of State's Consular Affairs/Travel.gov on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter/X. Review the Country Security Report for Tunisia. 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. Border with Algeria – Level 4: Do Not Travel Do not travel within 16 km of the Algerian border due to terrorism, except for the cities of Tabarka and Ain Draham. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Border with Libya – Level 4: Do Not Travel Developments in Libya continue to affect the security situation along the Tunisian-Libyan border in areas such as Ras Jedir and Dehiba along with the cities of Ben Guerdan and Medenine. The border with Libya is frequently closed to all traffic with short notice for extended periods. The Department of State advises U.S. citizens not to travel to Libya. Visit our webpage for Travel to High-Risk Areas. The Mount Chaambi National Park, Mount Salloum, Mount Sammamma, and Mount Mghila in Kasserine governorate due to terrorism – Level 4: Do Not Travel Terrorist groups continue to operate in mountains of Western Tunisia near the Algerian border. Visit our webpage for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Orbata Mountains in Gafsa in West-Central Tunisia – Level 4: Do Not Travel Terrorist groups continue to operate in the mountainous areas of Western Tunisia near the Algerian border. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. The Desert South of Remada – Level 4: Do Not Travel The desert south of Remada is designated as a military zone by the Government of Tunisia. Special authorization is required for travelers wishing to enter the military zone. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Republic of the Congo | October 2, 2024 • [ caution ] Reissued after periodic review with minor updates. Exercise increased caution in the Republic of the Congo due to crime. Country Summary: While not common, violent crime, such as armed robbery and assault, remains a concern throughout the Republic of the Congo. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens outside Brazzaville. U.S. government employees must use two vehicles for all overland travel outside Brazzaville. In Pointe-Noire, they are restricted to beaches adjacent to their hotels due to crime. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to the Republic of Congo. If you decide to travel to the Republic of the Congo: Avoid demonstrations. Use caution when walking or driving at night. Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for the Republic of the Congo. 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.

Algeria | September 26, 2024 • [ caution ] Reissued after periodic review with minor edits. Exercise increased caution in Algeria due to terrorism and kidnapping. Do not travel to: Areas near the eastern and southern borders due to terrorism and kidnapping. Areas in the Sahara Desert due to terrorism and kidnapping. Country Summary: Terrorists continue plotting possible attacks in Algeria. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning and have recently targeted the Algerian security forces. Most attacks take place in rural areas, but attacks are possible in urban areas despite a heavy and active police presence. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens outside Algiers province due to Algerian government restrictions on travel by U.S. government employees. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Algeria. If you decide to travel to Algeria: Inform local police when visiting locations outside of major cities. Travel by air if possible; remain on major highways if you must travel by road. Travel with reputable travel agents who know the area. Avoid staying overnight outside of the main cities and tourist locations. 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 Algeria. 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. Eastern and southern borders — Level 4: Do Not Travel Avoid travel to rural areas within 50 km (31 miles) of the border with Tunisia and within 250 km (155 miles) of the borders with Libya, Niger, Mali, and Mauritania due to terrorist and criminal activities, including kidnapping. Visit our website for High-Risk Travelers. Overland travel to the Sahara Desert — Level 4: Do Not Travel Do not travel overland in the Sahara Desert due to terrorist and criminal activity, including kidnapping. Visit our website for High-Risk Travelers.

Panama | September 23, 2024 • [ caution ] Updated to reflect information on areas of civil unrest. Exercise increased caution in Panama due to crime and potential for civil unrest. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire travel advisory. Do not travel to: Parts of the Mosquito Gulf due to crime. Parts of the Darién Region due to crime. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Panama. Country Summary: Crime occurs in Panama, including theft and residential break-ins. Crimes of opportunity such as pickpocketing and purse snatching can happen in tourist areas. The Embassy receives occasional reports of residential break-ins, especially during the holiday season. Demonstrations periodically occur due to local issues and have disrupted some normal travel patterns in the past, including the flow of goods and services to some parts of the country. If you decide to travel to Panama: Avoid demonstrations and large crowds. Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans Be aware of your surroundings especially when traveling to remote 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 Panama. 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. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the below regions as U.S. government personnel must obtain approval before traveling there and face additional restrictions before such travel is approved. Parts of the Mosquito Gulf – Level 4: Do Not Travel The “Mosquito Gulf” is an extremely remote and inaccessible area along part of the north (Caribbean) coast. Do not travel within 10 miles of the coastline, from Boca de Rio, Chiriqui to Cocle del Norte. Drug trafficking and other illicit activities occur in this area. Parts of the Darién Region – Level 4: Do Not Travel Do not travel to the following areas of the Darien: All areas south of Jaque to Manene to Yaviza to Lajas Blancas cities to the Colombian border The city of Lajas Blancas The city of El Salto Criminal activity and human trafficking networks operate in these areas. Police presence and emergency response are extremely limited. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Kingdom of Denmark | September 17, 2024 • [ caution ] Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.     Exercise increased caution in the Kingdom of Denmark due to terrorism.   Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in the Kingdom of Denmark. Terrorists can attack with little or no warning. They could target tourist spots, transport hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of religious importance, parks, major sporting and cultural events, schools, airports, and other public areas. The Kingdom of Denmark consists of Denmark, the Faroe Islands, and Greenland. For additional information, please review the country information pages for Denmark and the Faroe Islands and for Greenland. If you decide to travel to the Kingdom of Denmark:  Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.  Follow the instructions of local authorities.  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 X/Twitter.   Follow the U.S. Embassy in Copenhagen on Facebook and X/Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Denmark.  Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Lesotho | September 17, 2024 • [ caution ] Reissued after periodic review with changes to overall Travel Advisory level from level 1 to level 2 due to an increase in crime. Exercise increased caution in Lesotho due to crime. Country Summary: Crime is common in Lesotho and sporadic armed robberies and carjackings occur. Local police may lack the resources to respond in a timely manner to criminal incidents. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Lesotho. If you decide to travel to Lesotho: 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. Follow the U.S. Embassy in Lesotho on Facebook and X/Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Lesotho. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. Be aware of your surroundings. Use caution when walking or driving at night. Review your personal security plans. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Netherlands | August 9, 2024 • [ caution ] Reissued after periodic review without changes. Exercise increased caution in the Netherlands due to terrorism. Country Summary: Terrorists continue plotting possible attacks in the Netherlands. 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. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to the Netherlands. If you decide to travel to the Netherlands: Be aware of your surroundings. Stay alert in locations frequented by large crowds. Follow the instructions of local authorities including movement restrictions related to any ongoing police action. Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans. 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 the Netherlands. 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.

Sweden | July 24, 2024 • [ caution ] Reissued after periodic review without changes Exercise increased caution in Sweden due to terrorism. Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Sweden. 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. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Sweden. If you decide to travel to Sweden: Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues. Follow the instructions of local authorities. 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 Sweden. 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.

Eswatini | July 1, 2024 • [ caution ] Reissued after periodic review without changes. Exercise increased caution in Eswatini due to crime and civil unrest. Country Summary: Crime is common in Eswatini and sporadic armed robberies and carjackings do occur. Local police may lack the resources to deal effectively with criminal incidents. Demonstrations and protests occur sporadically in Eswatini. U.S. citizens are reminded to avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones, as they could turn violent with little or no warning. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Eswatini. If you decide to travel to Eswatini: 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. Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Eswatini. 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.

Bolivia | June 6, 2024 • [ caution ] Reissued after annual review. Exercise increased caution in Bolivia due to civil unrest. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do not travel to: Chapare region due to crime. Country Summary: Demonstrations, strikes, and roadblocks can occur at any time in Bolivia. Demonstrations can result in violence. Roadblocks and strikes may cut off traffic and restrict the flow of goods and services around the country. Domestic and international flights may be delayed or unexpectedly cancelled. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Bolivia. If you decide to travel to Bolivia: Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans. Contact your airline or travel agency prior to travel. Avoid demonstration and crowds. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Review the Country Security Report for Bolivia. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. Chapare Region: Do Not Travel Due to a high level of violent crime, the U.S. government is limited in its ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Chapare region. U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel there. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Botswana | February 26, 2024 • [ caution ] Updated to include information on crime. Exercise increased caution in Botswana due to crime. Country Summary: Crimes of opportunity, primarily the theft of money and personal property, are common in Botswana. Potentially violent crimes, such as home invasions, break-ins, “smash and grabs” from vehicles stopped at intersections and from locked cars in shopping mall parking lots, cell phone thefts, and muggings are routinely reported to police. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Botswana. If you decide to travel to Botswana: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable) and leave originals in your hotel safe. Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for Botswana. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

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