Advisory: Niger
Issued by US Department of State

Last updated on January 8, 2023, to remove the Ordered Departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees and eligible family members, and lower the overall risk level from Level 4 to Level 3.

Reconsider travel to Niger due to risk of crime, civil unrest, terrorism, and kidnapping.

Violent crimes, such as armed robbery, are common.

Demonstrations, while generally peaceful, may become violent at any time and lead to civil unrest. 

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.

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:

• Visitors are urged to stay in hotels with armed Nigerien security presence.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Keep a low profile.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Make contingency plans to leave the country.
• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
• Review the Country Security Report for Niger.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.