| # | Description | Level |
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| 101 | LaosReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution to Laos due to civil unrest. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Reconsider travel to:
Exercise increased caution in:
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Laos. If you decide to travel to Laos:
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. |  |
| 102 | LatviaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Latvia. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Latvia. If you decide to travel to Latvia:
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| 103 | LebanonReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Reconsider travel to Lebanon due to crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping and Embassy Beirut’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not Travel to:
Country Summary: Local security authorities have noted a rise in violent crimes, including political violence. Multiple unsolved killings in Lebanon may have been politically motivated. U.S. citizens living and working anywhere in Lebanon should be aware of the risks of remaining in the country and review their personal security plans. U.S. citizens who choose to travel to Lebanon should be aware that consular officers from the U.S. Embassy are not always able to travel to assist them. The Department of State considers the threat to U.S. government personnel in Beirut sufficiently serious to require them to live and work under strict security. The internal security policies of the U.S. Embassy may be adjusted at any time and without advance notice. Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Lebanon. Terrorists may conduct attacks with little or no warning targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. The Lebanese government cannot guarantee the protection of U.S. citizens against sudden outbreaks of violence. Family, neighborhood, or sectarian disputes can escalate quickly and can lead to gunfire or other violence with no warning. Armed clashes have occurred along the borders, in Beirut, and in refugee settlements. The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) have been brought in to quell the violence in these situations. U.S. citizens should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings or protests as some of these have turned violent. Protesters have blocked major roads, including thoroughfares between downtown Beirut and the area where the U.S. Embassy is located, and between Beirut and Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport. Kidnapping, whether for ransom, political motives, or family disputes, has occurred in Lebanon. Suspects in kidnappings may have ties to terrorist or criminal organizations. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Lebanon. If you decide to travel to Lebanon:
Border with Syria – Level 4: Do Not Travel For years Lebanon has witnessed deadly terror attacks in border towns along Lebanon’s border with Syria, including episodic clashes between the LAF and Syrian-based violent extremist groups. A 2017 LAF offensive expelled ISIS militants from territory along Lebanon’s border with Syria. The U.S. Embassy strongly urges U.S. citizens to avoid the Lebanon-Syria border region. The U.S. Department of State also warns U.S. citizens of the risk of traveling on flights that fly over Syria, which include some flights to and from Beirut. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Border with Israel – Level 4: Do Not Travel There have been sporadic rocket, missile, and artillery exchanges between Israel and Hizballah impacting southern Lebanon, most recently in April 2022. The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to avoid this border area. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Refugee Settlements – Level 4: Do Not Travel The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to avoid travel to refugee settlements, which are prone to outbreaks of violence including shootings and explosions. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. |  |
| 104 | LesothoLast Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise normal precautions in Lesotho. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Lesotho. If you decide to travel to Lesotho:
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| 105 | LiberiaLast Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise increased caution in Liberia due to crime and civil unrest. Country summary: Violent crime, such as armed robbery, is common, particularly in urban areas and on public beaches. Local police lack the resources to respond effectively to serious crimes. Demonstrations occur regularly and have on occasion resulted in violence or use of tear gas by authorities. If traveling in Liberia, make all efforts to complete your travel during daylight hours due to increased safety hazards at night. U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling outside the capital or between counties after dark (with the exception of travel to and from Roberts International Airport). Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Liberia. If you decide to travel to Liberia:
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| 106 | LibyaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Do not travel to Libya due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict. Country Summary: Crime levels in Libya remain high, including the threat of kidnapping for ransom. Westerners and U.S. citizens have been targets of these crimes. Terrorist groups continue plotting attacks in Libya. Violent extremist activity in Libya remains high, and extremist groups have made threats against U.S. government officials and citizens. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, hotels, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and government facilities. Outbreaks of violence between competing armed groups can occur with little warning and have the potential to impact U.S. citizens. The capital, Tripoli, and other cities, such as Surman, Al-Jufra, Misrata, Ajdabiya, Benghazi, Sabha, and Dernah, have witnessed fighting among armed groups, as well as terrorist attacks. Hotels and airports frequented by Westerners have been the targets of these attacks. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Militia or armed groups sometimes detain travelers for arbitrary reasons, do not grant detainees access to a lawyer or a legal process, and do not allow detainees to inform others of their status. U.S. citizens should carry proof of citizenship and valid immigration status at all times, but having these documents does not guarantee fair treatment. Some international and national airports are closed, and flights out of operational airports are sporadic and may be cancelled without warning. The U.S. government is very concerned about the targeting of commercial transportation in Libya and prohibits U.S. commercial aviation operations within Libyan airspace. The U.S. government is unable to provide emergency or routine assistance to U.S. citizens in Libya, as the U.S. Embassy in Tripoli suspended its operations in July 2014. Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Libya, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Libya. If you decide to travel to Libya:
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| 107 | LiechtensteinReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Liechtenstein. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Liechtenstein. If you decide to travel to Liechtenstein:
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| 108 | LithuaniaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Lithuania. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Lithuania. If you decide to travel to Lithuania:
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| 109 | LuxembourgReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions when traveling to Luxembourg. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Luxembourg. If you decide to travel to Luxembourg:
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| 110 | MacauReconsider 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. Approval takes at least five to seven days, limiting the U.S. government’s ability to offer timely consular services in the Macau SAR. 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 scrutiny and harassment. If you are a dual U.S.-PRC citizen and 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 practice, 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 (usconsulate.gov). 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:
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| 111 | MadagascarLast Update: Reissued after periodic review with updates to crime information in the Tsaratanana, Tsiroanomandidy, Maintirano, and Betroka areas. Exercise increased caution in Madagascar due to crime and civil unrest. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Reconsider travel to the following areas due to violent crime and banditry:
Country Summary: Most criminal activity is non-violent petty theft, pickpocketing, and other crimes of opportunity predominately in urban areas and in crowded markets. Violent crime, such as armed robbery and assault, occurs throughout Madagascar, particularly after dark, in remote areas, and along major national roads in the south and western areas of the country. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Madagascar. If you decide to travel to Madagascar:
Mid-Sized Urban Areas – Level 3: Reconsider Travel Violent crime, such as armed carjacking, banditry, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping can occur at any time. Local police often lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents in these areas:
Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. | |
| 112 | MalawiLast Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise increased caution in Malawi due to crime. Crime, such as theft, burglary, armed robbery, assault, and carjacking is common. The capabilities of the Malawi Police Service are growing, but its resources and abilities to deter and investigate crimes, assist victims, and apprehend criminals are limited. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Malawi. If you decide to travel to Malawi:
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| 113 | MalaysiaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Malaysia. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Exercise Increased Caution in:
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Malaysia. If you decide to travel to Malaysia:
Eastern Area of Sabah State – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution There is a threat of kidnappings-for-ransom from both terrorist and criminal groups. These groups may attack with little to no warning, targeting coastal resorts, island resorts, and boats ferrying tourists to resort islands. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in eastern Sabah as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to parts of eastern Sabah. | |
| 114 | MaldivesReissued with updates to health information. Exercise increased caution in Maldives due to terrorism. Country Summary: Terrorist groups may conduct attacks with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Attacks may occur on remote islands which could lengthen the response time of authorities. If you decide to travel to Maldives:
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| 115 | MaliReissued with updates to U.S. government restrictions on personnel. Do not travel to Mali due to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. Country Summary: Violent crime, such as kidnapping and armed robbery, is common in Mali. Violent crime is a particular concern during local holidays and seasonal events in Bamako, its suburbs, and Mali’s southern regions. Roadblocks and random police checkpoints are commonplace throughout the country, especially at night. Terrorist and armed groups continue plotting kidnappings and attacks in Mali. They may attack with little or no warning, targeting night clubs, hotels, restaurants, places of worship, international diplomatic missions, and other locations frequented by foreigners. Attacks may target Malian government offices and infrastructure, in addition to locations frequented by Westerners. The U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens throughout much of Mali as U.S. government employee travel outside Bamako is restricted due to security concerns. Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Mali, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Mali. If you decide to travel to Mali:
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| 116 | MaltaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Malta. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Malta. If you decide to travel to Malta:
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| 117 | Marshall IslandsLast Update: Reissued to remove COVID-19 restrictions. Exercise normal precautions in the Marshall Islands. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Marshall Islands. If you decide to travel to Marshall Islands:
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| 118 | MauritaniaLast Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Reconsider travel to Mauritania due to crime and terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not Travel To:
Country Summary: Violent crimes, such as mugging, armed robbery, and assault, are common. Local police lack the resources to respond effectively to serious crimes. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting places frequented by Westerners. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Mauritania as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel outside Nouakchott. U.S. government employees may travel only during daylight hours and are prohibited from walking alone outside of designated areas and times. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Mauritania. If you decide to travel to Mauritania:
Areas Designated Off-Limits by the Mauritanian Military – Level 4: Do Not Travel The government of Mauritania designates certain areas off-limits to foreigners and most Mauritanians. These “No Movement Zones” are extremely dangerous due to their proximity to Mali, where armed groups engaged in an active insurgency carry out cross-border attacks into Mauritania. The government of Mauritania does not maintain a substantial presence in these areas and thus police are unable to respond to most incidents there. In addition, cell phone coverage and paved roads are nonexistent. U.S. officials are unable to travel to these places. Since the boundaries of such areas frequently change, U.S. citizens should pay attention to all posted signs and notices of restricted entry. They should presume the following areas are off-limits:
Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. | |
| 119 | MauritiusLast Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise normal precautions in Mauritius. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Mauritius. If you decide to travel to Mauritius:
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| 120 | MicronesiaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Micronesia. If you decide to travel to Micronesia:
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| 121 | MoldovaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution while traveling to Moldova due to unresolved conflict between the breakaway region of Transnistria and the central government. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Reconsider Travel To: The Transnistria breakaway region due to the unresolved conflict with the central government and the armed conflict in neighboring Ukraine. Country Summary: Approximately 100,000 refugees are residing in Moldova as a result of Russia’s war in Ukraine, but there has been no military spillover into Moldova from the conflict. The Moldovan government extended a State of Emergency until April 5. 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:
Transnistria – Level 3: Reconsider Travel Transnistria is a breakaway region that is not under the control of the Moldovan government in Chisinau. Visitors may encounter difficulties at checkpoints along roads leading into and out of Transnistria. Ukraine has closed its border crossing points into the Transnistrian region. Taking photographs of military facilities and security forces is prohibited 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. | |
| 122 | MongoliaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Mongolia. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Mongolia. If you travel to Mongolia, you should:
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| 123 | MontenegroReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Montenegro. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Montenegro. If you decide to travel to Montenegro:
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| 124 | MontserratReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Montserrat. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Montserrat. If you decide to travel to Montserrat:
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| 125 | MoroccoReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution in Morocco due to terrorism. Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Morocco. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Morocco. If you decide to travel to Morocco:
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| 126 | MozambiqueLast Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise increased caution in Mozambique due to health issues, crime and terrorism. Some areas have greater risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not Travel To:
Reconsider Travel To:
Country Summary: Violent crime, such as mugging, is common. Terrorist groups in northern Mozambique continue to be active. Public areas may be attacked with little or no warning. Mozambique’s health infrastructure is limited: there are only three doctors per 100,000 people, frontline health providers are often poorly trained, and medicine shortages are common. More than 1.2 million people in Mozambique have HIV/AIDS, representing a sizable population with compromised immune systems. In the event of a public health emergency, access to an ICU and ventilator support is highly unlikely. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Mozambique. If you decide to travel to Mozambique:
Certain districts in Cabo Delgado Province – Level 4: Do Not Travel Terrorists continue to conduct and plot attacks on government forces, villages, and key supply routes in the districts of Ancuabe, Chuire, Ibo, Macomia, Meluco, Metuge, Mocimboa da Praia, Mueda, Muidumbe, Nangade, Palma, and Quissanga in the northern province of Cabo Delgado. Pemba, Capital of Cabo Delgado Province – Level 3: Reconsider Travel Terrorist attacks in multiple districts in Cabo Delgado Province present the possibility that the provincial capital of Pemba is vulnerable to attack due to the proximity of violent extremist forces and their increasing sophistication. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. | |
| 127 | NamibiaReissued after periodic review without changes. Exercise normal precautions in Namibia. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Namibia. If you decide to travel to Namibia:
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| 128 | NauruReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Nauru. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Nauru If you decide to travel to Nauru:
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| 129 | NepalReissued with updates to health information. Exercise increased caution in Nepal due to the potential for isolated political violence. Country Summary: Political demonstrations intended to be peaceful can sometimes escalate into violence and may be met with force by Nepali authorities. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Nepal. If you decide to travel to Nepal:
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| 130 | NetherlandsReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. 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:
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| 131 | New CaledoniaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in New Caledonia. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to New Caledonia. If you decide to travel to New Caledonia:
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| 132 | New ZealandReissued with updates regarding a short-term event. Exercise normal precautions in New Zealand. The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 is scheduled to take place across Australia and New Zealand in nine cities from July 20 through August 20, 2023. Review the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 webpage for actions to take prior to travel. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to New Zealand. If you decide to travel to New Zealand:
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| 133 | NicaraguaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Reconsider travel to Nicaragua due to limited healthcare availability and arbitrary enforcement of laws. Exercise increased caution in Nicaragua due to crime, and wrongful detentions. Country Summary: The government of Nicaragua arbitrarily enforces laws for political purposes. Throughout Nicaragua, government officials and law enforcement continue to target those opposed to the rule of President Ortega. The government and its affiliated groups have been reported to:
U.S. citizens have reported being subject to this treatment. U.S. citizen residents of Nicaragua also report increased scrutiny of alleged political speech and additional scrutiny by immigration officials. The Department has determined the risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals by the Government of Nicaragua exists. Travelers should exercise increased caution and be alert to the risks of crime, including violent crimes such as sexual assault and armed robbery. Poor infrastructure in parts of the country limits the Embassy’s ability to assist U.S. citizens in emergencies. U.S. government personnel may be subject to restrictions on their movements at any time. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Nicaragua. If you decide to travel to Nicaragua:
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| 134 | NigerLast Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Reconsider travel to Niger due to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. Country Summary: Violent crime, such as armed robbery, is common. Terrorist groups continue plotting kidnappings and possible attacks in Niger. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting foreign and local government facilities and areas frequented by Westerners. Terrorists operate in the areas bordering Mali, Libya, Burkina Faso, and throughout northern Niger. Avoid travel to Niger’s border regions, particularly the Malian border area, Diffa region, and the Lake Chad region. Mali-based extremist groups have crossed the border and conducted multiple lethal attacks on Nigerien security forces. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in remote and rural areas as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel outside of the capital, Niamey, due to security concerns. Outside of Niamey, all U.S. Embassy personnel are required to travel only during daylight hours and in a minimum of a two-vehicle convoy accompanied by armed Nigerien government security escorts. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Niger. If you decide to travel to Niger:
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| 135 | NigeriaLast Updated: Reissued with updates to staffing and do not travel areas Reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and maritime crime. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. U.S. Embassy Abuja is only able to provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens in Abuja. U.S. Consulate in Lagos is providing all routine and emergency services to U.S. citizens in Nigeria. U.S. citizens in Nigeria who require assistance should contact LagosACS@state.gov or +234 1 460 3410. Do Not Travel to:
Country Summary: Violent crime – such as armed robbery, assault, carjacking, kidnapping, hostage taking, banditry, and rape – is common throughout the country. Kidnappings for ransom occur frequently, often targeting dual national citizens who have returned to Nigeria for a visit, as well as U.S. citizens with perceived wealth. Kidnapping gangs have also stopped victims on interstate roads. Terrorists continue plotting and carrying out attacks in Nigeria. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting shopping centers, malls, markets, hotels, places of worship, restaurants, bars, schools, government installations, transportation hubs, and other places where crowds gather. Terrorists are known to work with local gangs to expand their reach. There is civil unrest and low-level armed militancy in parts of Southern Nigeria, especially in the Niger Delta region. Armed criminality, including kidnapping and maritime crime, is also pervasive in this region. Violence can flare up between communities of farmers and herders in rural areas. There is frequent maritime crime in the Gulf of Guinea. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Nigeria due to security conditions. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Nigeria. If you decide to travel to Nigeria:
Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and Northern Adamawa states – Level 4: Do Not Travel The security situation in these states is fluid and unpredictable due to widespread terrorist activity, inter-communal violence, and kidnapping. Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning. Terrorist groups based in the Northeast routinely target humanitarian camps, security forces, churches, schools, mosques, government installations, educational institutions, entertainment venues, and road travelers. Approximately two million Nigerians have been displaced as a result of the violence in Northeast Nigeria. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, and Zamfara states – Level 4: Do Not Travel The security situation in these states is fluid and unpredictable due to widespread inter-communal violence and armed criminality, especially kidnapping and roadside banditry. Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Coastal areas of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, and Rivers states (with the exception of Port Harcourt) – Level 4: Do Not Travel Crime is rampant throughout Southern Nigeria, and there is a heightened risk of kidnapping and maritime crime, especially in the Gulf of Guinea. Violent civil unrest and armed militancy persist in these areas. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. | |
| 136 | North KoreaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Do not travel to North Korea due to the continuing serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals. Exercise increased caution to North Korea due to the critical threat of wrongful detention.
The U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in North Korea as it does not have diplomatic or consular relations with North Korea. Sweden serves as the protecting power for the United States in North Korea, providing limited emergency services. The North Korean government routinely delays or denies Swedish officials access to detained U.S. citizens. Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of North Korea, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to North Korea. If you receive a special validation to travel to North Korea:
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| 137 | North MacedoniaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in North Macedonia. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to North Macedonia. If you decide to travel to North Macedonia:
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| 138 | NorwayReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Norway. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Norway. If you decide to travel to Norway:
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| 139 | OmanReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution due to terrorism and armed conflict. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do not travel to:
Country Summary: Due to risks to civil aviation operating within the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Oman, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Oman. If you decide to travel to Oman:
Yemen Border Area Terrorist attacks and violence continue in Yemen. Crossing the border into Yemen can be dangerous, and U.S. citizens who attempt to cross the Oman-Yemen border, from either Oman or Yemen, may be detained by Omani authorities. Visit our website for High-Risk Travelers. | |
| 140 | PakistanReissued with updates to health information. Reconsider travel to Pakistan due to terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do not travel to:
Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue to plot attacks in Pakistan. Terrorism and ongoing violence by extremist elements have led to indiscriminate attacks on civilian, as well as local military and police, targets. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, military installations, airports, universities, tourist locations, schools, hospitals, places of worship, and government facilities. Terrorists have targeted U.S. diplomats and diplomatic facilities in the past. Terrorist attacks continue across Pakistan, with most occurring in Balochistan and KP, including the former FATA. Large-scale terrorist attacks have resulted in numerous casualties. Pakistan’s security environment remains fluid sometimes changing with little or no notice. There are greater security resources and infrastructure in the major cities, particularly Islamabad, and security forces in these areas may be more readily able to respond to an emergency compared to other areas of the country. While threats still exist, terrorist attacks occur less frequently in major urban areas than other parts of Pakistan. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Pakistan due to the security environment. Travel by U.S. government personnel within Pakistan is restricted, and additional restrictions on movements by U.S. government personnel outside of U.S. diplomatic facilities may occur at any time, depending on local circumstances and security conditions, which can change suddenly. The U.S. Consulate General in Peshawar is unable to provide any consular services to U.S. citizens. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Pakistan. If you decide to travel to Pakistan:
Balochistan Province – Level 4: Do Not Travel Do not travel to Balochistan province. Active terrorist groups, including an active separatist movement, have conducted deadly terrorist attacks against civilians, religious minorities, government offices, and security forces. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. KP Province, including the former FATA – Level 4: Do Not Travel Do not travel to KP province, which includes the former FATA. Active terrorist and insurgent groups routinely conduct attacks against civilians, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), government offices, and security forces. These groups historically have not discriminated between government officials and civilians. Assassination and kidnapping attempts are common, including the targeting of polio eradication teams and Government of Pakistan security service (police and military) personnel. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Vicinity of Line of Control – Level 4: Do Not Travel Do not travel to the India-Pakistan border, including the Line of Control. Militant groups are known to operate in the area. India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on both sides of the border. The only official Pakistan-India border crossing point for persons who are not citizens of India or Pakistan is in the province of Punjab between Wagah, Pakistan, and Atari, India. Travelers are advised to confirm the status of the border crossing prior to commencing travel. An Indian visa is required to enter India, and no visa services are available at the border. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. | |
| 141 | PalauReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Palau. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Palau. If you decide to travel to Palau:
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| 142 | PanamaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution in Panama due to crime. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do not travel to:
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Panama. If you decide to travel to Panama:
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. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in this region as U.S. government personnel must obtain prior approval before traveling there and face additional restrictions before such travel is approved. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Parts of the Darién Region – Level 4: Do Not Travel Do not travel to the following areas of the Darien:
Criminal elements and drug and human trafficking networks operate in these areas. Police presence and emergency response are extremely limited. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these regions as U.S. government personnel must obtain prior approval before traveling there and face additional restrictions before such travel is approved. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. | |
| 143 | Papua New GuineaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Reconsider travel to Papua New Guinea due to crime, civil unrest, and piracy. Exercise increased caution due to kidnapping, unexploded ordnance, inconsistent availability of healthcare services, and potential for natural disasters. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do not travel to:
Country Summary: Violent crime, including sexual assault, carjackings, home invasions, and armed robberies, is common. There have been reports of criminals attacking resorts popular with foreign tourists to steal goods and money. Tensions between communal or tribal groups may lead to civil unrest involving violence and to occur without warning. Police presence is limited outside of the capital, Port Moresby, and police may be unable to assist due to limited resources. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens outside of Port Moresby due to limited transportation infrastructure. U.S. government employees must obtain authorization before traveling to areas of concern, including the southern part of Bougainville and the provinces of Southern Highlands, Western Highlands (excluding Mt. Hagen), Eastern Highlands (excluding Goroka), Hela, Enga, Jiwaka, and other areas of Papua New Guinea where one is unable to fly directly. Piracy is active in the waters surrounding Papua New Guinea. Travelers by boat should reconsider travel to the Bismarck and Solomon Seas along Papua New Guinea's north and eastern coasts. In 2021 and 2022, the Embassy was aware of at least three occasions in which sailboats operated by or carrying U.S. citizens were boarded by criminals. The criminals, who have been known to use physical violence, robbed the boats, and in one incident, severely injured the captain when he attempted to fight back. Visit our website on International Maritime Piracy and Armed Robbery at Sea. Kidnapping for ransom or political influence occurs in Papua New Guinea, though foreign nationals are not frequently targeted. In February 2023, a foreign citizen was kidnapped. In late 2022, foreign citizens employed by an international company were kidnapped and held for several days. Travelers should exercise increased caution when traveling in remote areas of Papua New Guinea due to the presence of unexploded ordnance (UXO) remaining from World War II. UXO is discovered infrequently throughout the country, often on smaller islands. Papua New Guinea has inconsistent availability of healthcare services which may be difficult to obtain outside of Port Moresby. Pharmaceuticals may be scarce or unavailable. Papua New Guinea is subject to periodic seismic activity and is home to several active volcanoes. The country does experience regular volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis. U.S. citizens are advised to familiarize themselves with volcano updates, earthquake tracking, and tsunami warnings in Papua New Guinea. U.S. citizens should develop contingency plans in the event of an eruption or major earthquake. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Papua New Guinea. If you decide to travel to Papua New Guinea:
Areas Near the Panguna Mine on the island of Bougainville – Level 4: Do Not Travel The Autonomous Bougainville Government has designated areas near the Panguna mine as “no go zones" due to the risk of violence from civil unrest. Bougainville police lack the resources to respond to emergency calls. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. The Highlands Region (excluding Mt. Hagen and Goroka) – Level 4: Do Not Travel There is a heightened risk of civil unrest from tribal violence throughout the region, including the provinces of Southern Highlands, Western Highlands, Eastern Highlands, Hela, Enga, and Jiwaka. The towns of Mt. Hagen (Western Highlands) and Goroka (Eastern Highlands) generally have a more stable police presence than other towns and villages across the Highlands provinces. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. | |
| 144 | ParaguayReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Paraguay. Some areas have increased crime risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Exercise increased caution in:
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Paraguay. If you decide to travel to Paraguay:
Departments of Amambay, Alto Paraná, Canindeyu, San Pedro, and Concepcion – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution Transnational criminal elements are active and engage in illicit trafficking of arms, narcotics, and goods in these departments, which are located along Paraguay’s northeastern border with Brazil. Police presence is limited. U.S. government personnel must provide advance notice when traveling to these areas. | |
| 145 | PeruLast Update: Reissued with updates to crime information. Exercise increased caution due to crime, civil unrest, and the possibility of kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do not travel to:
Country Summary: Crime, including petty theft, carjackings, muggings, assaults, and other violent crime, is common in Peru and can occur during daylight hours despite the presence of many witnesses. Kidnapping is rare, but does occur. The risk of crime increases at night. Organized criminal groups have been known to use roadblocks to rob victims in areas outside of the capital city of Lima. Demonstrations occur regularly throughout the country. Public demonstrations can take place for a variety of political and economic issues. Demonstrations can cause the shutdown of local roads, trains, and major highways, often without prior notice or estimated reopening timelines. Road closures may significantly reduce access to public transportation and airports and may disrupt travel both within and between cities. U.S. travelers participating in Ayahuasca and Kambo ceremonies should be aware that numerous persons, including U.S. citizens, have reported that while under the influence of these substances, they have witnessed or been victims of sexual assault, rape, theft, serious health problems and injuries, and even death. Currently, U.S. government personnel cannot travel freely throughout Peru for security reasons. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Peru. If you decide to travel to Peru:
Colombian-Peruvian border area in the Loreto Region – Level 4: Do Not Travel Drug trafficking and other criminal activity, combined with poor infrastructure, limits the capability and effectiveness of Peruvian law enforcement in this area. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens as U.S. government personnel are restricted from traveling within 20 kilometers of the border with Colombia in the Loreto region, except on the Amazon River itself, without permission. This includes travel on the Putumayo River, which forms most of the Peru-Colombia border. U.S. government personnel must receive advance permission for any travel to the Peruvian-Colombian border. Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM) includes areas within the Departments of Ayacucho, Cusco, Huancavelica, and Junin – Level 4: Do Not Travel Remnants of the Shining Path terrorist group are active in the VRAEM. The group may attack with little or no warning, targeting Peruvian government installations and personnel. Drug trafficking and other criminal activity, combined with poor infrastructure, limit the capability and effectiveness of Peruvian law enforcement in this area. U.S. government personnel are restricted from traveling in the VRAEM except for certain areas during daylight hours. U.S. government personnel must receive advance permission for any travel to the VRAEM. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens due to these travel restrictions. The Puno Region, including the Peruvian side of Lake Titicaca, and the Apurimac Region– Level 4: Do Not Travel The Puno and Apurimac regions, including areas previously frequented by tourists near Lake Titicaca and the cities of Puno and Apurimac, were epicenters of recent violent civil unrest and have yet to recover. Local police and emergency services do not have the same capacity to respond to traveler emergencies in these regions as elsewhere in Peru. U.S. Embassy personnel are currently prohibited from traveling to the Puno Region, including Lake Titicaca, and to the Apurimac Region. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. | |
| 146 | PhilippinesReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution to the Philippines due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not Travel to:
Reconsider Travel to:
Country Summary: Terrorist and armed groups continue plotting possible kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in the Philippines. Terrorist and armed groups may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. The Philippine government has declared a “State of National Emergency on Account of Lawless Violence in Mindanao.” Read the country information page for additional information on travel to the Philippines. If you decide to travel to the Philippines:
The Sulu Archipelago and Sulu Sea – Level 4: Do Not Travel Terrorist and armed groups continue to conduct kidnappings on land and at sea for ransom, bombings, and other attacks targeting U.S. citizens, foreigners, civilians, local government institutions, and security forces. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Sulu Archipelago and Sulu Sea as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to those areas. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Marawi City in Mindanao – Level 4: Do Not Travel Civilians are at risk of death or injury due to conflict between remnants of terrorist groups and Philippine security forces in Marawi. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Mindanao as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel there. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Mindanao – Level 3: Reconsider Travel The Philippine government maintains a state of emergency and greater police presence in the Cotabato City area, and in the Maguindanao, North Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat provinces. Terrorist and armed groups continue to conduct kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks targeting U.S. citizens, foreigners, civilians, local government institutions, and security forces. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Mindanao as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel there. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. | |
| 147 | PolandReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Poland. If you decide to travel to Poland:
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| 148 | PortugalReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Portugal. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Portugal. If you decide to travel to Portugal:
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| 149 | QatarReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Qatar. Due to risks to civil aviation operating within the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Qatar, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Qatar. If you decide to travel to Qatar:
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| 150 | Republic of the CongoLast Update: Reissued with updates to health information. 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 to travel to the Pool region. They are also restricted to beaches adjacent to their hotels in Pointe Noire 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:
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| 151 | RomaniaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Romania. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Romania. If you decide to travel to Romania:
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| 152 | RussiaClick Here for Important Information for U.S. Citizens Seeking to Depart Russia. Last Update: Reissued with updates to health and other risk indicators. Do not travel to Russia due to the unpredictable consequences of the unprovoked full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russian military forces, the potential for harassment and the singling out of U.S. citizens for detention by Russian government security officials, the arbitrary enforcement of local law, limited flights into and out of Russia, the Embassy’s limited ability to assist U.S. citizens in Russia, and the possibility of terrorism. U.S. citizens residing or travelling in Russia should depart immediately. Exercise increased caution due to the risk of wrongful detentions. The U.S. government’s ability to provide routine or emergency services to U.S. citizens in Russia is severely limited, particularly in areas far from the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, due to Russian government limitations on travel for embassy personnel and staffing, and the ongoing suspension of operations, including consular services, at U.S. consulates. In September, the Russian government mobilized citizens to the armed forces in support of its invasion of Ukraine. Russia may refuse to acknowledge dual nationals’ U.S. citizenship, deny their access to U.S. consular assistance, subject them to mobilization, prevent their departure from Russia, and/or conscript them. U.S. citizens should note that U.S. credit and debit cards no longer work in Russia, and options to electronically transfer funds from the United States are extremely limited due to sanctions imposed on Russian banks. There are reports of cash shortages within Russia. Commercial flight options are extremely limited and are often unavailable on short notice. If you wish to depart Russia, you should make independent arrangements as soon as possible. The U.S. Embassy has severe limitations on its ability to assist U.S. citizens to depart the country and transportation options may suddenly become even more limited. Click here for Information for U.S. Citizens Seeking to Depart Russia. U.S. Embassy personnel are generally not permitted to travel on Russian air carriers due to safety concerns. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) downgraded the air safety rating for Russia from Category 1 to Category 2 on April 21, 2022, due to Russia’s Federal Agency for Air Transport noncompliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) safety standards. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) prohibiting U.S. aviation operations into, out of, within, or over those areas of the Moscow Flight Information Region (FIR), the Samara FIR (UWWW) and the Rostov-na-Donu (URRV) FIR within 160NM of the boundaries of the Dnipro (UKDV) Flight Information Regions. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices. The right of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are not consistently protected in Russia. U.S. citizens should avoid all political or social protests and not photograph security personnel at these events. Russian authorities have arrested U.S. citizens who have participated in demonstrations. Country Summary: U.S. citizens, including former and current U.S. government and military personnel and private citizens engaged in business who are visiting or residing in Russia, have been interrogated without cause and threatened by Russian officials, and may become victims of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion. Russian security services may fail to notify the U.S. Embassy of the detention of a U.S. citizen and unreasonably delay U.S. consular assistance. Russian security services are increasing the arbitrary enforcement of local laws to target foreign and international organizations they consider “undesirable.” Russian security services have arrested U.S. citizens on spurious charges, singled out U.S. citizens in Russia for detention and harassment, denied them fair and transparent treatment, and convicted them in secret trials or without presenting credible evidence. Furthermore, Russian authorities arbitrarily enforce local laws against U.S. citizen religious workers and have opened questionable criminal investigations against U.S. citizens engaged in religious activity. U.S. citizens should avoid travel to Russia to perform work for or volunteer with non-governmental organizations or religious organizations. There have been multiple security incidents in southwestern Russia related to Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine. The Russian government declared martial law in Russia’s regions bordering Ukraine (Bryansk, Kursk, Belgorod, Voronezh, Rostov, Krasnodar) on October 20, 2022. The martial law regime allows the rapid introduction of restrictive measures such as curfew, seizure of private property, restriction of entry/exit and freedom of movement, internment of foreigners, forced relocation of local residents, and restrictions on public gatherings. U.S. citizens should avoid all travel to these areas. Recent legislation has expanded the ability of Russian authorities to detain, question, and arrest individuals suspected of acting against Russia’s interests, including engaging with foreign and international entities, discrediting the Russian state or military, as well as advocating for the rights of LGBTQI+ persons. Terrorist groups, both transnational and local terrorist organizations, and individuals inspired by extremist ideology continue plotting possible attacks in Russia. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs and systems, 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. Travel to the North Caucasus (including Chechnya and Mt. Elbrus) is prohibited for U.S. government employees and strongly discouraged for U.S. citizens. The international community, including the United States and Ukraine, does not recognize Russia’s purported annexation of Crimea as well as four other Ukrainian oblasts – Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya – that Russia has purported to annex more recently. There is extensive Russian Federation military presence in these areas. Russia staged its further invasion of Ukraine, in part, from occupied Crimea, and Russia is likely to take further military actions in Crimea, and the four other Ukrainian oblasts are the subject of intensive fighting. There are continuing abuses against foreigners and the local population by the occupation authorities in these regions, particularly against those who are seen as challenging Russia’s authority. The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv continues to provide consular services to U.S. citizens in Crimea as well as four other Ukrainian oblasts partially occupied by Russia – Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya, although the ongoing conflict severely restricts the Embassy’s ability to provide services in these areas. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Russia. If you decide to travel to Russia:
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| 153 | RwandaLast Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise normal precautions in Rwanda. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Exercise Increased Caution in:
Rwanda-Burundi Border—Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution The Nyungwe Forest National Park abuts the border with Burundi. Borders may not be clearly marked. It is required to obtain permits from the Rwanda Development Board prior to entry. Relations between Burundi and Rwanda are tense and there have been cross-border incursions and armed clashes. Rwanda-Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Border – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution Armed rebel and militia groups operate in DRC’s North and South Kivu provinces and Virunga Park. Borders may not be clearly marked and there have been cross-border incursions and armed clashes. It is required to obtain permits from the Rwanda Development Board prior to entry to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, which is adjacent to Virunga Park. | |
| 154 | SabaLast Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise normal precautions in Saba. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Saba. If you decide to travel to Saba:
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| 155 | Saint Kitts and NevisReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in St. Kitts and Nevis. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to St. Kitts and Nevis. If you decide to travel to St. Kitts and Nevis:
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| 156 | Saint LuciaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Saint Lucia. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Saint Lucia. If you decide to travel to Saint Lucia:
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| 157 | Saint Vincent and the GrenadinesReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. 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:
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| 158 | SamoaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed Exercise normal precautions in Samoa. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Samoa. If you decide to travel to Samoa:
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| 159 | Sao Tome and PrincipeReissued after periodic review without changes. Exercise normal precautions in Sao Tome and Principe. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Sao Tome and Principe. If you decide to travel to Sao Tome and Principe:
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| 160 | Saudi ArabiaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia due to the threat of missile and drone attacks on civilian facilities. Exercise increased caution in Saudi Arabia due to terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do not travel to the following locations due to missile and drone attacks and terrorism:
Country Summary: U.S. government personnel must adhere to the above travel restrictions. As such, the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these locations. Missile and drone attacks perpetrated by Iran and Iran-supported militant groups represent a significant threat. The Islamic Republic of Iran has supplied Yemen-based Houthis and other regional proxy groups with weapons to conduct destructive and sometimes lethal attacks using drones, missiles, and rockets against a variety of Saudi sites, including critical infrastructure, civilian airports, military bases, and energy facilities throughout the country, as well as vessels in Red Sea shipping lanes. Recent attacks were aimed at targets throughout Saudi Arabia including Riyadh, Jeddah, Dhahran, Jizan, Khamis Mushayt, the civilian airport in Abha, Al Kharj, military installations in the south, as well as oil and gas facilities. Debris from intercepted drones and missiles represents a significant risk to civilian areas and populations. Militant groups continue to plan and conduct attacks against locations in Saudi Arabia. U.S. citizens living and working near military bases and critical civilian infrastructure, particularly near the border with Yemen, are at heightened risk of missile, drone, and rocket attacks. Terrorist groups continue plotting attacks against Saudi and Western targets throughout Saudi Arabia. Terrorists attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, large gatherings, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Terrorists are also known to time attacks around major holidays and/or in response to military operations. Terrorists have targeted both Saudi and Western government interests, mosques and other religious sites (both Sunni and Shia), and places frequented by U.S. citizens and other Westerners. ISIS claimed responsibility for a November 2020 IED attack at a cemetery in Jeddah during a ceremony commemorating the end of World War I. Several Western diplomats were in attendance. Due to risks to civil aviation operating within the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Saudi Arabia, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Saudi Arabia. If you decide to travel to Saudi Arabia:
Yemen Border, Abha airport, and Qatif in the Eastern Province and its suburbs, including Awamiyah – Level 4: Do Not Travel Militant groups in Yemen have attacked Saudi border towns and other sites in Saudi Arabia with armed drones, missiles, and rockets. Civilians that are near the border with Yemen are especially at risk. Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Saudi Arabia, including in Qatif. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens within 50 miles of the Saudi-Yemen border as U.S. government personnel and their families are restricted from travel to this area. Visit our website for information on travel to high-risk areas. | |
| 161 | See Individual SummariesReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Summary: Terrorist groups, lone-wolf terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza. Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Violence can occur in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza without warning. There has been a marked increase in demonstrations throughout Israel, some with little or no warning. Some areas have increased risk. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Israel and the West Bank, and Gaza. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. Do Not Travel To:
Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To:
If you decide to travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.
Gaza – Do Not Travel The U.S. government is unable to provide routine or emergency services to U.S. citizens in Gaza as U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling there. Hamas, a U.S. government-designated foreign terrorist organization, controls the security infrastructure in Gaza. The security environment within Gaza and on its borders is dangerous and volatile. Sporadic mortar or rocket fire and corresponding Israeli military responses may occur at any time. During periods of unrest or armed conflict, the crossings between Gaza with Israel and Egypt may be closed. Visit our website for Travel to High Risk Areas. If you decide to travel to Gaza:
Israel – Exercise increased caution U.S. government employees are currently restricted from personal travel:
The Embassy can impose even greater travel restrictions on its personnel, with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats. West Bank – Exercise Increased Caution U.S. government travel throughout the West Bank is limited. U.S. government employees are currently restricted from all personal travel in the West Bank, except:
The Embassy can impose even greater travel restrictions on its personnel, with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats. | |
| 162 | See State SummariesLast Updated: Reissued with updates to health information See state summaries and advisory levels below for information on your specific travel destination. Some areas of Mexico have increased risk of crime and kidnapping. Country Summary: Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, as travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or restricted. In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities. U.S. citizens are advised to adhere to restrictions on U.S. government employee travel. State-specific restrictions are included in the individual state advisories below. U.S. government employees may not travel between cities after dark, may not hail taxis on the street, and must rely on dispatched vehicles, including app-based services like Uber, and regulated taxi stands. U.S. government employees should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas. U.S. government employees may not drive from the U.S.-Mexico border to or from the interior parts of Mexico, except daytime travel within Baja California and between Nogales and Hermosillo on Mexican Federal Highway 15D, and between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey on Highway 85D. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Mexico. Do Not Travel To:
Reconsider Travel To:
Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To:
Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To: Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. If you decide to travel to Mexico:
Aguascalientes state – Exercise Increased Caution Exercise increased caution due to crime. Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Aguascalientes state. Baja California state – Reconsider Travel Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping. Transnational criminal organizations compete in the border area to establish narco-trafficking and human smuggling routes. Violent crime and gang activity are common. Travelers should remain on main highways and avoid remote locations. Of particular concern is the high number of homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. Most homicides appeared to be targeted; however, criminal organization assassinations and territorial disputes can result in bystanders being injured or killed. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. U.S. government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:
Travelers may use Highways 2 and 2D to transit between Mexicali, Los Algodones, and San Luis Rio Colorado during daylight hours. Travelers may also use Highways 1 and 8 to transit to and from the Mexicali Airport during daylight hours. Travel on Highway 5 is permissible during daylight hours. There are no other travel restrictions for U.S. government employees in Baja California state. These include high-traffic tourism areas of border and coastal communities, such as Tijuana, Ensenada, and Rosarito. Baja California Sur state – Exercise Increased Caution Exercise increased caution due to crime. Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Baja California Sur state, which includes tourist areas in: Cabo San Lucas, San Jose del Cabo, and La Paz. Campeche state – Exercise Normal Precautions Exercise normal precautions. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Campeche state. Chiapas state – Exercise Increased Caution Exercise increased caution due to crime. Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Chiapas state, which includes tourist areas in: Palenque, San Cristobal de las Casas, and Tuxtla Gutierrez. Chihuahua state – Reconsider Travel Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping. Violent crime and gang activity are common. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Battles for territory between criminal groups have resulted in violent crime in areas frequented by U.S. citizens and U.S. government employees, including restaurants and malls during daylight hours. Bystanders have been injured or killed in shooting incidents. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. U.S. government employee travel is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:
U.S. government employees may only travel from Ciudad Juarez to Chihuahua City during daylight hours via Federal Highway 45, with stops permitted only at the Federal Police station, the Umbral del Milenio overlook area, the border inspection station at KM 35, and the shops and restaurants on Federal Highway 45 in the town of Villa Ahumada.
U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Chihuahua, including Copper Canyon. Coahuila state – Exercise Increased Caution Exercise increased caution due to crime. Violent crime and gang activity occur in parts of Coahuila state. U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:
There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Coahuila state. Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping. Violent crime and gang activity are widespread. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with noted restrictions:
U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Colima state. Durango state – Reconsider Travel Reconsider travel due to crime. Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Durango state. U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:
There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Durango state. Guanajuato state – Reconsider Travel Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping. Gang violence, often associated with the theft of petroleum and natural gas from the state oil company and other suppliers, occurs in Guanajuato, primarily in the south and central areas of the state. Of particular concern is the high number of murders in the southern region of the state associated with cartel-related violence. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:
There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Guanajuato state, which includes tourist areas in: San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato City, and surrounding areas. Guerrero state – Do Not Travel Do not travel due to crime. Crime and violence are widespread. Armed groups operate independently of the government in many areas of Guerrero. Members of these groups frequently maintain roadblocks and may use violence towards travelers. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping in previous years. Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following area with the noted restrictions:
U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Guerrero, including to tourist areas in Acapulco, Zihuatanejo, and Ixtapa. Hidalgo state – Exercise Increased Caution Exercise increased caution due to crime. Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Hidalgo state. Jalisco state – Reconsider Travel Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping. Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Jalisco state. In Guadalajara, territorial battles between criminal groups take place in tourist areas. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed innocent bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:
There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Jalisco state which includes tourist areas in: Guadalajara Metropolitan Area, Puerto Vallarta (including neighboring Riviera Nayarit), Chapala, and Ajijic. Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution Exercise increased caution due to crime. Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico City. Use additional caution, particularly at night, outside of the frequented tourist areas where police and security patrol more routinely. Petty crime occurs frequently in both tourist and non-tourist areas. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico City. Mexico State (Estado de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution Exercise increased caution due to crime. Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico State. Use additional caution in areas outside of the frequented tourist areas, although petty crime occurs frequently in tourist areas as well. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico State. Michoacan state – Do Not Travel Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping. Crime and violence are widespread in Michoacan state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:
U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Michoacan, including the portions of the Monarch Butterfly Reserve located in Michoacan. Morelos state – Reconsider Travel Reconsider travel due to crime. Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Morelos state. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Morelos state. Nayarit state – Exercise Increased Caution Exercise increased caution due to crime. Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout Nayarit state.
Nuevo Leon state – Exercise Increased Caution Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping. Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Nuevo Leon state. Oaxaca state – Exercise Increased Caution Exercise increased caution due to crime. Criminal activity and violence occur throughout the state. U.S. travelers are reminded that U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:
There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees to other parts of Oaxaca state, which include tourist areas in: Oaxaca City, Monte Alban, Puerto Escondido, and Huatulco. Puebla state – Exercise Increased Caution Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping. Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Puebla state. Queretaro state – Exercise Increased Caution Exercise increased caution due to crime. Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Queretaro state. Quintana Roo state – Exercise Increased Caution Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping. Criminal activity and violence may occur in any location, at any time, including in popular tourist destinations. Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. While not directed at tourists, shootings between rival gangs have injured innocent bystanders. Additionally, U.S. citizens have been the victims of both non-violent and violent crimes in tourist and non-tourist areas. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state, which include tourist areas in: Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and the Riviera Maya. However, personnel are advised to exercise increased situational awareness after dark in downtown areas of Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen, and to remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones. San Luis Potosi state – Exercise Increased Caution Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping. Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in San Luis Potosi state. Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping. Violent crime is widespread. Criminal organizations are based in and operating in Sinaloa. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:
U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Sinaloa state. Sonora state – Reconsider Travel Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping. Sonora is a key location used by the international drug trade and human trafficking networks. Violent crime is widespread. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:
U.S. government employees may travel to other parts of Sonora state in compliance with the above restrictions, including tourist areas in: Hermosillo, Bahia de Kino, and Puerto Penasco. Tabasco state – Exercise Increased Caution Exercise increased caution due to crime. Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tabasco state. Tamaulipas state – Do Not Travel Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping. Organized crime activity – including gun battles, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, forced disappearances, extortion, and sexual assault – is common along the northern border and in Ciudad Victoria. Criminal groups target public and private passenger buses, as well as private automobiles traveling through Tamaulipas, often taking passengers and demanding ransom payments. Heavily armed members of criminal groups often patrol areas of the state and operate with impunity particularly along the border region from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo. In these areas, local law enforcement has limited capacity to respond to incidents of crime. Law enforcement capacity is greater in the tri-city area of Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira, which has a lower rate of violent criminal activity compared to the rest of the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:
U.S. government employees may not travel to other parts of Tamaulipas state. Tlaxcala state – Exercise Increased Caution Exercise increased caution due to crime. Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tlaxcala state. Veracruz state – Exercise Increased Caution Exercise increased caution due to crime. Violent crime and gang activity occur with increasing frequency in Veracruz, particularly in the center and south near Cordoba and Coatzacoalcos. While most gang-related violence is targeted, violence perpetrated by criminal organizations can affect bystanders. Impromptu roadblocks requiring payment to pass are common. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Veracruz state. Yucatan state – Exercise Normal Precautions Exercise normal precautions. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Yucatan state, which include tourist areas in: Chichen Itza, Merida, Uxmal, and Valladolid. Zacatecas state – Do Not Travel Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping. Violent crime, extortion, and gang activity are widespread in Zacatecas state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:
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| 163 | See Summaries - Mainland China, Hong Kong & MacauReissued with updates to wrongful detention language and information for the Hong Kong and Macau Special Administrative Regions (SARs). Summary: Reconsider travel to Mainland China due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including in relation to exit bans, and the risk of wrongful detentions. Exercise increased caution when traveling to the Hong Kong SAR due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws. Reconsider travel to the Macau SAR due to a limited ability to provide emergency consular services. Exercise increased caution when traveling to the Macau SAR due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws. See specific risks and conditions in each jurisdiction. | |
| 164 | SenegalLast Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise normal precautions in Senegal. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Exercise Increased Caution in:
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Senegal. If you decide to travel to Senegal:
Casamance Region – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution There are sporadic reports of armed banditry in the Casamance region. Landmines from prior conflicts remain a concern in the region. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Casamance region. U.S. government employees are required to coordinate all travel to the area with security officials and any travel off the main routes generally requires additional security measures (e.g. driving in a caravan of multiple vehicles, consulting local security officials, or carrying personal travel locaters). U.S. government employees are also prohibited from travelling after dark anywhere in the Casamance region. | |
| 165 | SerbiaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution in Serbia due to crime. Country Summary: Violence associated with organized crime and high-profile sporting events in Serbia is common. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Serbia. If you decide to travel to Serbia:
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| 166 | SeychellesLast Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise normal precautions in Seychelles. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Seychelles. If you decide to travel to Seychelles:
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| 167 | Sierra LeoneLast Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise increased caution in Sierra Leone due to crime and civil unrest. Country Summary: Violent crimes, such as robbery and assault, occur frequently in Sierra Leone, especially in Freetown. Local police often lack the resources to deal effectively with serious criminal incidents. Demonstrations and protests occur in Sierra Leone and on occasion have resulted in violence. If traveling outside the Freetown peninsula, make all efforts to complete your travel during daylight hours due to increased safety hazards at night. The U.S. Embassy is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens outside of Freetown at night as U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling outside the capital after dark. Read the country information page for additional information about travel to Sierra Leone. If you decide to travel to Sierra Leone:
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| 168 | SingaporeReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Singapore. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Singapore. If you decide to travel to Singapore:
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| 169 | Sint EustatiusLast Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise normal precautions in Sint Eustatius. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Sint Eustatius. If you decide to travel to Sint Eustatius:
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| 170 | Sint MaartenReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Sint Maarten. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Sint Maarten. If you decide to travel to Sint Maarten:
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| 171 | SlovakiaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Slovakia. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Slovakia. If you decide to travel to Slovakia:
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| 172 | SloveniaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Slovenia. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Slovenia. If you decide to travel to Slovenia:
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| 173 | Solomon IslandsReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution traveling to Solomon Islands due to low COVID-19 vaccination rates. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Solomon Islands. CDC-compliant testing for COVID-19 is either not available or the results are not reliably available within one calendar day of testing. The COVID-19 vaccination rate within Solomon Islands is comparatively much lower than other countries in the region. If you decide to travel to Solomon Islands:
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| 174 | SomaliaReissued with updates to security information. Do not travel to Somalia due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health issues, kidnapping, and piracy. Country Summary: Violent crime, such as kidnapping and murder, is common throughout Somalia, including Puntland and the Somaliland region. Illegal roadblocks are widespread. Some schools and other facilities acting as “cultural rehabilitation” centers are operating throughout Somalia with inadequate or nonexistent licensing and oversight. Reports of physical abuse and people being held against their will in these facilities are common. Terrorists continue to plot kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in Somalia. They may conduct attacks with little or no warning, targeting airports and seaports, government buildings, hotels, restaurants, shopping areas, and other areas that attract large crowds and are frequented by Westerners, as well as government, military, and Western convoys. Methods of attack can include car bombs, suicide bombers, individual attackers, and mortar fire, among others. While some areas have experienced less severe terrorist activity, such as the Somaliland region, where there have been no major terrorist attacks since 2008, terrorist attacks involving the indiscriminate use of explosive devices and other weapons can take place anywhere in Somalia at any time without warning. The U.S. Embassy heavily restricts the movement of its employees in Mogadishu based on the critical threat environment. Civil unrest occurs throughout Somalia and can sometimes be violent. Medical facilities across Somalia have limited capacity and are often nonexistent in rural areas. Pirates are active in the waters off the Horn of Africa, especially in the international waters near Somalia. The U.S. government has extremely limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Somalia due to the lack of permanent consular presence in Somalia, including the Somaliland region. Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Somalia, the Federal Aviation Administration has issued a Special Federal Aviation Regulation. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Somalia. If you decide to travel to Somalia:
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| 175 | South AfricaLast Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise increased caution in South Africa due to crime and civil unrest. Country Summary: Violent crime, such as armed robbery, rape, carjacking, mugging, and "smash-and-grab" attacks on vehicles, is common. There is a higher risk of violent crime in the central business districts of major cities after dark. Demonstrations, protests, and strikes occur frequently. These can develop quickly without prior notification, often interrupting traffic, transportation, and other services; such events have the potential to turn violent. Please see our Alerts for up-to-date information. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to South Africa. If you decide to travel to South Africa:
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| 176 | South KoreaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in South Korea. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to South Korea. If you decide to travel to South Korea:
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| 177 | South SudanLast Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Do not travel to South Sudan due to crime, kidnapping, and armed conflict. Country Summary: Violent crime, such as carjackings, shootings, ambushes, assaults, robberies, and kidnappings is common throughout South Sudan, including Juba. Foreign nationals have been the victims of rape, sexual assault, armed robberies, and other violent crimes. Armed conflict is ongoing and includes fighting between various political and ethnic groups. Weapons are readily available to the population. In addition, cattle raids occur throughout the country and often lead to violence. Reporting in South Sudan without the proper documentation from the South Sudanese Media Authority is considered illegal, and any journalistic work there is very dangerous. Journalists regularly report being harassed in South Sudan, and many have been killed while covering the conflict. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in South Sudan. U.S. government personnel in South Sudan are under a strict curfew. They must use armored vehicles for nearly all movements, and official travel outside Juba is limited. Due to the critical crime threat in Juba, walking is also restricted; when allowed, it is limited to a small area in the immediate vicinity of the Embassy and during daylight hours only. Family members cannot accompany U.S. government employees who work in South Sudan. Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of South Sudan, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to South Sudan. If you decide to travel to South Sudan:
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| 178 | SpainReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution in Spain due to terrorism and civil unrest. Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Spain. 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. Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. Read the country information page for additional information on travel in Spain. If you decide to travel to Spain:
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| 179 | Sri LankaReissued with updates to health information. Exercise increased caution in Sri Lanka due to fuel and medicine shortages, civil unrest, and terrorism. Sri Lanka is experiencing shortages of imported goods, including fuel, food, and medicine due to the ongoing economic situation in the country. This has led to long lines at gas stations, but a fuel rationing system has helped to alleviate the situation. Public transportation has at times been limited or curtailed. Disrupted supply chains have caused food and medicine shortages, especially in remote areas, but most hotels, restaurants, grocery stores, and private hospitals have supplies. Limited duration power outages occur frequently, but most tourist facilities have backup generators. Protests over the economic situation could erupt at any time. In some instances, police have used water cannons and tear gas to disperse protesters. Travelers should monitor local media for updates on the ongoing situation. Terrorist attacks have occurred in Sri Lanka, with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, hospitals, and other public areas. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in remote areas. Read the country information page. If you decide to travel to Sri Lanka:
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| 180 | SudanReissued with updates to the security situation and post departure status. Do not travel to Sudan due to armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. On April 22, 2023, the U.S. Embassy in Khartoum suspended its operations, and the Department of State ordered the departure of U.S. direct hire employees and eligible family members from Embassy Khartoum due to the continued threat of armed conflict in Sudan. The U.S. government cannot provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Sudan, due to the current security situation. Armed conflict is ongoing throughout Sudan and includes heavy fighting between various political and security groups. The situation is violent, volatile, and extremely unpredictable, particularly in the capital city Khartoum. Electrical and communication disruptions, including internet and cell phone service, can occur at any time. Khartoum International Airport and Sudan’s border with Chad are currently closed. Country Summary: Armed conflict, crime, such as kidnapping, armed robbery, home invasion, and carjacking occur. Members of known terrorist groups and individuals sympathetic to these groups in Sudan could attack with little or no warning, targeting foreign and local government facilities, and areas frequented by Westerners. Violence continues along the border between Chad and Sudan and areas that border South Sudan (including the disputed Abyei area). Armed opposition groups are active in Central Darfur state and parts of Blue Nile and South Kordofan states. Intercommunal clashes can occur throughout the country and can result in the declaration of localized States of Emergency. Read the country information page for additional information about travel to Sudan. If you decide to travel to Sudan:
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| 181 | SurinameReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Suriname. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Suriname. If you decide to travel to Suriname:
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| 182 | SwedenReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed 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:
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| 183 | SwitzerlandReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Switzerland. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Switzerland. If you decide to travel to Switzerland:
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| 184 | SyriaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Do not travel to Syria due to terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict, and risk of unjust detention. Country Summary: The U.S. Embassy in Damascus suspended its operations in February 2012. The Czech Republic serves as the protecting power for the United States in Syria. The U.S. government is unable to provide any emergency services to U.S. citizens in Syria. Syria has experienced active armed conflict since 2011. No part of Syria is safe from violence. Kidnappings by armed groups, unjust arrests and/or detentions, the use of chemical warfare, shelling, and aerial bombardment of civilian centers pose significant risk of death or serious injury. The destruction of infrastructure, housing, medical facilities, schools, and power and water utilities has also increased hardships inside the country. The U.S. government particularly warns private U.S. citizens against traveling to Syria to engage in armed conflict. U.S. citizens who undertake such activity face extreme personal risks, including kidnapping by armed groups, unjust arrests, injury, or death. The U.S. government does not support this activity. Our ability to provide consular assistance to individuals who are injured or kidnapped, or to the families of individuals who die in the conflict, is extremely limited. Protests and demonstrations are quelled by government forces through aggressive tactics and protestors, activists, and political dissenters are routinely detained without access to legal representation or communications with friends and family. Terrorist groups are active in Syria. Parts of Syria have experienced recent increases in incidents of bombings, IEDs, and assassinations. Fighting on behalf of or providing other forms of support to designated terrorist organizations, including ISIS and al-Qaeda affiliates, can constitute the provision of material support for terrorism, which is a crime under U.S. law that can result in penalties including prison time and large fines. There is an ongoing risk of kidnapping and detentions of U.S. citizens and Westerners throughout the country. U.S. citizens remain a target. U.S. citizens are also targets of abduction and/or unjust detention by the Syrian government and while in detention do not have access to due process or medical attention. Government detention centers are known to be unsanitary facilities where widespread cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment of detainees has been documented, as well as torture and extrajudicial killings. Minors, persons with physical, sensory, or mental disabilities, and elderly have frequently been victims of unjust detention. The Syrian government has also been implicated in the enforced or involuntary disappearance of more than 100,000 citizens, including medical and humanitarian workers, journalists, human rights activists, political opposition, and additionally those suspected of affiliation with these groups and their family members. Note: Only the Syrian government can issue a valid entry visa to Syria. Failure to obtain a legitimate entry visa directly from the Syrian government could result in detention. Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Syria, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR), which says that heightened military activity associated with the Syrian conflict may result in the risk of GPS interference, communications jamming, and errant long-range surface to air missiles straying into adjacent airspace within 200 nautical miles of the Damascus Flight Information Region. These activities may inadvertently pose hazards to civil aviation transiting the region. It also has the potential to spill over into the adjacent airspace managed by neighboring states and eastern portions of the Mediterranean Sea. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Syria. If you decide to travel to Syria:
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| 185 | TaiwanReissued after periodic review with minor edits. Exercise normal precautions in Taiwan. Read the Taiwan International Travel Information page for additional information on travel to Taiwan. If you decide to travel to Taiwan:
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| 186 | TajikistanReissued with updates to health information. Exercise increased caution in Tajikistan due to terrorism. Country Summary: Terrorist organizations are known to have a presence in the region and have targeted foreigners and local authorities in recent years, including attacks on Western bicyclists in 2018 and a government border post in 2019. Border Areas with Afghanistan The current political situation in Afghanistan creates a challenging and unpredictable environment in the border areas due to evolving security conditions. The U.S. Embassy recommends that U.S. citizens reconsider travel near and along Tajikistan’s border with Afghanistan. U.S. citizens should remain alert and avoid activities that develop predictable patterns of movement. If documenting travel on social media, please ensure your privacy settings are appropriately set. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Tajikistan. If you decide to travel to Tajikistan:
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| 187 | TanzaniaLast Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise increased caution in Tanzania due to crime, terrorism, and targeting of LGBTI persons. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Reconsider Travel To:
Country Summary: Violent crime, such as assault, sexual assault, robberies, mugging, and carjacking, is common. Local police may lack the resources to respond effectively to serious crime. Terrorist groups could attack in Tanzania with little or no warning, targeting embassies, police stations, mosques, and other places frequented by Westerners. Please see the additional information below regarding the increased threat of terrorism in Mtwara Region. Members of the LGBTI community have been arrested, targeted, harassed, and/or charged with unrelated offenses. Individuals detained under suspicion of same-sex sexual conduct could be subject to forced anal examinations. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Tanzania. If you decide to travel to Tanzania:
Mtwara Region in southern Tanzania – Level 3: Reconsider Travel There have been reports of violence in Mtwara Region in southern Tanzania. Increased activity by extremists along the southern border has led to attacks against both government and civilian targets. | |
| 188 | ThailandReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Thailand. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Reconsider travel to:
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Thailand. If you decide to travel to Thailand:
Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla Provinces – Level 3: Reconsider Travel Periodic violence directed mostly at Thai government interests by a domestic insurgency continues to affect security in the southernmost provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla. In Songkhla, the insurgency is most active in the districts of Chana, Thepha, Nathawat, and Saba Yoi. U.S. citizens are at risk of death or injury due to the possibility of indiscriminate attacks in public places. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these provinces as U.S government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to these provinces. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. | |
| 189 | The BahamasReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to crime. Country Summary: The majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands. In Nassau, practice increased vigilance in the “Over the Hill” area (south of Shirley Street) where gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population. Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas. Be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence. Activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated. Watercraft may be poorly maintained and some operators may not have safety certifications. Due to these concerns, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands. Never swim alone, regardless of your age or level of swimming skills. Keep within your fitness and swimming capabilities. Be aware of weather and water conditions and heed local warnings. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to The Bahamas. If you decide to travel to The Bahamas:
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| 190 | The GambiaReissued with updates to crime and health information. Exercise increased caution in The Gambia due to crime and inadequate health infrastructure. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire travel advisory. Exercise increased caution due to other factors in
Theft and home burglaries occur frequently in The Gambia, especially in the broader Banjul area. U.S. government personnel live in housing with heightened security measures. The Gambia’s health infrastructure is inadequate; services, hygiene, and quality control do not meet U.S. standards of care. Pharmacies are not well regulated; locally available medications may be unsafe. The Gambia’s Southern Border with Senegal: Some landmines from the Casamance conflict remain in the border region. There have been occasional border skirmishes in this region. If travelling near or across the border stay on main roads and do not travel at night. Read the country information page for additional information about travel to The Gambia. If you decide to travel to The Gambia:
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| 191 | Timor-LesteReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution in Timor-Leste due to crime and civil unrest. Country Summary: Timor-Leste has seen isolated instances of police responding to protests with force and the use of tear gas. Stone throwing attacks on vehicles can occur during gang conflicts and periods of unrest. Gender-based violence is high in Timor-Leste, and sexual harassment is fairly common. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Timor-Leste. If you decide to travel to Timor-Leste:
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| 192 | TogoLast Update: Updated to reflect revisions to embassy personnel travel restrictions and reconsider travel areas. Exercise normal precautions in Togo. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Reconsider Travel to:
Exercise Increased Caution in:
Read the country information page for additional information about travel to Togo. If you decide to travel to Togo:
Northern Border Region – Level 3: Reconsider Travel Extremist groups have carried out attacks, including kidnapping, in the northern border region of Togo, the adjacent areas of Burkina Faso, and Benin. Attacks may occur with little or no warning. The current travel policy for embassy personnel prohibits travel north of the town of Dapaong and Highway N24 or Highway N28, along with the district of Kpendjal and Kpendjal-Ouest without special authorization. Embassy personnel may not remain overnight in areas north of Mango. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas. North of Kande – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution Extremist groups have carried out attacks in nearby areas of Benin. Attacks may occur with little or no warning. The Cities of Sokodé, Bafilo, and Mango – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution There is a history of violent demonstrations in Sokodé, Bafilo, and Mango, during which protesters and security force members have been injured, and some killed. Police have used tear gas to disperse demonstrations that caused traffic disruptions in city centers and along National Route 1, and arrested demonstrators. Security forces have at times used force to disperse crowds. Authorities have interrupted internet and cellular data services during past protests, making communication difficult and unpredictable. | |
| 193 | TongaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Tonga. Read the Country Information page. If you decide to travel to Tonga:
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| 194 | Trinidad and TobagoReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Reconsider travel to Trinidad and Tobago due to crime. Exercise increased caution in Trinidad and Tobago due to terrorism and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from travelling to the following areas in Port of Spain: Laventille, Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite, and the interior of Queens’ Park Savannah. After dark, U.S. government personnel are prohibited from travelling to downtown Port of Spain, Fort George overlook, and all beaches. Violence and shootings occur regularly in some areas of Port of Spain. Country Summary: Violent crime, such as murder, robbery, assault, sexual assault, home invasion, and kidnapping, is common. Gang activity, such as narcotics trafficking, is common. A significant portion of violent crime is gang-related. 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 Trinidad and Tobago. If you decide to travel to Trinidad and Tobago:
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| 195 | TunisiaReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution in Tunisia due to terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do not travel to:
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. U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel outside greater Tunis. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Tunisia. If you decide to travel to Tunisia:
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 website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Western Mountains and Chaambi Mountain National Park – Level 4: Do Not Travel Terrorist groups continue to operate in mountains of Western Tunisia. 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. Jendouba El Kef and Kasserine near the Algerian Border – Level 4: Do Not Travel Terrorist groups continue to operate in these areas. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Sidi Bou Zid in Central Tunisia – Level 4: Do Not Travel Terrorist groups continue to operate in this area. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. | |
| 196 | TurkeyReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution when traveling to Turkey due to terrorism and arbitrary detentions. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not Travel To:
Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Turkey. 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. Security forces have detained tens of thousands of individuals, including U.S. citizens, for alleged affiliations with terrorist organizations based on scant or secret evidence and grounds that appear to be politically motivated. U.S. citizens have also been subject to travel bans that prevent them from departing Turkey. Participation in demonstrations not explicitly approved by the Government of Turkey, as well as criticism of the government (including on social media), can result in arrest. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Turkey. If you decide to travel to Turkey:
Sirnak Province, Hakkari Province, and Any Area within six miles (ten kilometers) of the Syrian Border – Level 4: Do Not Travel Do not travel to Sirnak province, Hakkari province, or any area within six miles (10 kilometers) of the Turkey/Syria border due to the continued threat of attacks by terrorist groups, armed conflict, and civil unrest. Terrorist attacks, including suicide bombings, ambushes, car bomb detonations, and improvised explosive devices, as well as shootings, and illegal roadblocks leading to violence have occurred in these areas. U.S. government employees are restricted from traveling to these provinces and to any area within six miles (10 kilometers) of the Turkey/Syria border without prior approval. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. | |
| 197 | TurkmenistanReissued with updates to health information. Exercise increased caution in Turkmenistan due to the limited travel options into and out of the country on short notice. Country Summary: Regular international commercial flights to and from Ashgabat have resumed, but demand for available seats remains high. It may be difficult to make travel arrangements in time-sensitive situations and travelers should note that delayed flight times are common when entering and leaving Turkmenistan. Please read the country information page for additional information on travel to Turkmenistan. If you decide to travel to Turkmenistan:
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| 198 | Turks and Caicos IslandsReissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution in the Turks and Caicos Islands due to crime. Country Summary: The vast majority of crime occurs in Providenciales. Local medical care and criminal investigative capabilities are limited. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands. If you decide to travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands:
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| 199 | TuvaluLast Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Reconsider travel to Tuvalu due to COVID-19-related restrictions. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Tuvalu. Commercial transportation to/from Tuvalu is not available or only sporadically available. It may be difficult to enter or leave the country, and travelers should expect delays entering Tuvalu and/or returning to the United States. There are restrictions in place affecting U.S. citizen entry into Tuvalu. If you decide to travel to Tuvalu:
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| 200 | UgandaUpdated to reflect recently enacted anti-LGBTQI+ legislation. Reconsider travel to Uganda due to crime, terrorism, and anti-LGBTQI+ legislation. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Country summary: There remains a threat of terrorist attacks in Uganda and throughout the region. Terrorist attacks occurred in several villages in western Uganda in December 2022 and there were multiple bombings in and around Kampala in 2021. While the attacks did not appear to target foreign nationals, anyone can be a victim. U.S. citizens should remain alert and avoid large public gatherings. Violent crime, such as armed robbery, home invasion, and sexual assault, presents a serious threat to those visiting and residing in Uganda and can occur at any time, especially in larger cities, including Kampala and Entebbe, in the Karamoja region, and along Uganda’s western and northern borders. Local police may lack appropriate resources to respond effectively to serious crime in most areas. The May 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act raises the risk that LGBTQI+ persons, and those perceived to be LGBTQI+, could be prosecuted and subjected to life imprisonment or death based on provisions in the law, and may be subject to mandatory reporting to the police if they are suspected of committing or intending to commit acts in violation of the law, and could face harassment or attacks by vigilantes. Supporters of the dignity and human rights of LGBTQI+ persons (including those of youth under the age of 18) could be prosecuted and imprisoned for multi-year sentences. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Uganda. If you decide to travel to Uganda:
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