U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories

Vietnam - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

2 days 8 hours ago

Reissued after periodic review without changes.

Exercise normal precautions in Vietnam.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Vietnam.

 If you decide to travel to Vietnam:

Nicaragua - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

5 days 8 hours ago

Reissued with updates to information on arbitrary enforcement of laws.

Reconsider travel to Nicaragua due to arbitrary enforcement of laws, the risk of wrongful detention, and limited healthcare availability. Exercise increased caution in Nicaragua due to crime.

Country Summary: The Government of Nicaragua targets individuals and organizations for political purposes. These include: 

  • NGO workers,
  • Academics and students,
  • Business representatives,
  • Civil society leaders,
  • Religious and charity workers (including foreign missionaries),
  • Journalists,
  • And many others.

In the past year, the Government of Nicaragua has subjected U.S. citizens to arbitrary entry and exit bans, expulsions, arrests, revocations of Nicaraguan citizenship, and other actions.

The Government of Nicaragua may: 

  • Arbitrarily deny entry or re-entry to Nicaragua or departure from Nicaragua to U.S. citizens and Nicaraguan citizens. This includes entry by air or land. Travel refunds are NOT provided in these cases. Denials and exit bans can occur for political reasons. This includes perceived support for or association with those the government disfavors. The government is not required to provide a basis for its denial
  • Search personal phones, computers, social media accounts, and documents for anti-government content. 
  • Limit photography. 
  • Seize personal devices. 
  • Target individuals for political reasons, regardless of nationality. These can include former allies, political activists, business representatives, religious and charity groups, clergy, missionaries, human rights advocates, civil society leaders, academics, and journalists. 
  • Target pro-democracy advocates and their family members. 
  • Confiscate privately-owned land, residences, financial assets, or personal property. They may do this without warning or due process. 
  • Arbitrarily detain, accuse, and charge individuals with terrorism, money laundering, or organized crime offenses. They may do this without fair or transparent processes. 

The Department has determined there is a risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals by the Government of Nicaragua. U.S. citizens should reconsider travel to Nicaragua, including to work for or volunteer with non-profits or religious organizations. Since 2018, the Government of Nicaragua has closed more than 5,300 civil society organizations, including religious organizations. Nicaraguan security services have arrested U.S. citizens on false charges. This includes dual U.S.-Nicaraguan citizens. Those arrested can be denied fair and transparent treatment. Convictions routinely occur in non-public trials without adequate defense or credible evidence. Nicaraguan authorities also arbitrarily enforce laws against U.S. citizen religious workers. Nicaraguan authorities have conducted questionable criminal investigations against U.S. citizens engaged in religious activity. U.S. citizens arrested in Nicaragua may be detained for long periods without charges. Judicial processes often lack transparency. This is especially true in politically motivated arrests and property disputes. Political objectives and pressure may affect the willingness of a local attorney to assist and impact the outcomes of legal processes. Prison conditions can be harsh and life-threatening.

Managua has a sole private hospital that is JCAHO (Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations) accredited and certified, with labs and radiology services available, though it has a very limited number of specialists for acute emergencies. Medical services outside Managua are limited, including for victims of crime. Government hospitals are understaffed and some hospitals throughout the country may not be able to assist in emergencies. Tap water is not reliably potable. Drink only purified bottled water.

Travelers should exercise increased caution and remain alert to the risks of crime. These include violent crimes such as sexual assault and armed robbery.

Poor infrastructure can limit the Embassy’s emergency assistance to U.S. citizens. Travel by U.S. government personnel may be restricted at any time.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Nicaragua. 

If you decide to travel to Nicaragua:

  • Consider arrangements to depart the country quickly. 
  • Ensure your U.S. passport is valid for your entire stay. 
  • Avoid demonstrations and restrict unnecessary travel. 
  • Do not attempt to drive through crowds, barricades, or roadblocks. 
  • Maintain adequate supplies of food, cash, potable water, and fuel in case you need to shelter in place. 
  • Use caution when walking or driving at night. 
  • Keep a low profile. 
  • Do not display signs of wealth such as expensive watches or jewelry. 
  • Remain aware of your surroundings. 
  • Develop a communication plan with family and/or your employer or host organization. 
  • Be prepared for the high risk of indefinite arbitrary detention on false charges without consular access. 
  • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X (formerly known as “Twitter”). 
  • Review the Country Security Report for Nicaragua. 
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Suriname - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

5 days 8 hours ago

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Suriname.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Suriname.

If you decide to travel to Suriname:

Guinea - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

6 days 8 hours ago

Updated to reflect change in Travel Advisory from a Level 3 to a Level 2 and removing the “E” (time-limited event) indicator related to the catastrophic 2023 fuel depot explosion and its after-effects.

Exercise increased caution in Guinea due to crime, civil unrest, and inadequate health infrastructure.

Country Summary: There is considerable risk of crimes of opportunity in Guinea, especially in Conakry, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, theft of valuables from vehicles, assaults, and residential burglaries. Travelers should be especially alert in crowded areas where people congregate, such as markets.

Demonstrations and protests occur unpredictably in Guinea and occasionally result in violence. If traveling outside the Conakry peninsula, make all efforts to complete your travel before nightfall. There are increased safety hazards and security concerns at night. U.S. government employees under Chief of Mission authority are restricted from traveling between cities after dark and are unable to provide emergency services at night.

Guinea’s health infrastructure is inadequate. Health services, hygiene, and quality control do not meet U.S. standards of care. Local drinking water is unsafe, pharmacies are not well regulated, locally available medications may be unsafe, and necessary healthcare may not be available.

Read the country information page for additional information about travel to Guinea.

  • If you decide to travel to Guinea:
  • Use caution when walking or driving at night.
  • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
  • Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
  • Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
  • Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
  • Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
  • Review the Country Security Report for Guinea.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Bosnia and Herzegovina - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

6 days 8 hours ago

Exercise increased caution in Bosnia and Herzegovina due to terrorism, crime, and land mines.

Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas. Theft and other crimes of opportunity are common, especially against tourists. Violent crimes, such as robbery and murder, also occur due to the availability of firearms remaining from the war. Minefields and land mines are present throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. While suspected hazardous areas are normally clearly marked, several people are killed or injured each year.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

If you decide to travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina:  

  • Be aware of your surroundings and maintain situational awareness when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
  • Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
  • Remain on hard-surfaced roads and stay out of abandoned buildings due to risks from land mines.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter
  • Review the Country Security Report for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Check

Costa Rica - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

1 week 1 day ago

Exercise increased caution in Costa Rica due to crime.

Country Summary: Petty crime is common throughout Costa Rica. Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault, also affects tourists.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Costa Rica.

If you decide to travel to Costa Rica:

Honduras - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

1 week 1 day ago

Reconsider travel to Honduras due to crime. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to:

  • Gracias a Dios Department, most eastern department, due to crime.

Country Summary: Violent crime, such as homicide, armed robbery, and kidnapping, remains common. Violent gang activity, such as extortion, violent street crime, rape, narcotics, and human trafficking, is widespread. Local authorities may lack sufficient resources to respond effectively to serious crime incidents. Around resort areas in the Bay Islands, which include Roatan, Utila, and Guanaja, there is a concentration of resources, and these areas are better policed.

Demonstrations occur regularly throughout the country and can be about a variety of political or economic issues. Protests, demonstrations, tire burnings, and roadblocks are frequent, unpredictable, and can turn violent. They can shutdown roads and highways, often without prior notice or estimated reopening timelines. 

In December 2022, the Government of Honduras declared a “State of Exception” in response to high levels of extortion and other crimes. The declaration remains in effect and has been modified to include more cities. It allows the police to suspend constitutional rights in 226 of the country’s 298 municipalities. 

The Honduran Ministry of Health declared in June 2024 a national emergency in Honduras due to an increase in dengue cases. The Ministry of Health has carried out dengue prevention, control, and surveillance activities, along with the promotion of preventive measures through the media and educational campaigns. It also carried out clean-up operations and campaigns, including the use of chemical and biological agents for vector control.

Please review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website and CDC Global Dengue for further information.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Honduras.

If you decide to travel to Honduras:

  • Avoid demonstrations.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • Avoid walking or driving at night.
  • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
  • Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
  • Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
  • Do not take public transportation, including white car taxis. U.S. government personnel and their family members are prohibited from using these forms of transportation.
  • Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
  • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter.
  • Review the Country Security Report for Honduras.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Gracias a Dios Department – Level 4: Do Not Travel

U.S. government personnel and family members are restricted from traveling to Gracias a Dios, the most eastern department.  The department is an isolated region with high levels of criminal activity. Narcotics trafficking is widespread, and large portions of the department are particularly vulnerable tounder the influence of drug trafficking organizations. Infrastructure is weak, government services are limited, and police and military presence is scarce.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas

Malawi - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

1 week 5 days ago

Reissued after periodic review without changes.

Exercise increased caution in Malawi due to crime and civil unrest.

Country Summary: Violent crime such as theft, burglary, armed robbery, and assault is common. The capabilities of the Malawi Police Service are growing but its resources and abilities to deter and investigate crimes, assist victims, and apprehend criminals are limited.

Demonstrations may occur and increase in frequency due to political issues and events such as elections. Tear gas is frequently deployed at demonstrations and roads may be blocked.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Malawi.

If you decide to travel to Malawi:

  • Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
  • Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
  • Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter.
  • Review the Country Security Report for Malawi.
  • U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
  • U.S. citizens are reminded to avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones, that could turn violent with little or no warning.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

1 week 5 days ago

Updated to add Petit Saint Vincent to the list of islands affected by Hurricane Beryl in July 2024.

Exercise normal precautions in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The islands of Canouan, Mayreau, Palm Island, Petit Saint Vincent, and Union Island are in varying stages of recovery from Hurricane Beryl.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. 

If you decide to travel to St. Vincent and the Grenadines:


Canouan, Mayreau, Palm Island, Petit Saint Vincent, and Union Island
In July 2024, Hurricane Beryl damaged many buildings on these islands.  Until repairs are complete, fewer hotels and transportation options may be available.

  • Contact your destination before traveling to these islands

See Individual Summaries -

2 weeks ago

Updated to reflect updated information regarding the security situation in Israel and the West Bank.

Do Not Travel To:

  • Gaza due to terrorism and armed conflict
  • Northern Israel within 8 kilometers/5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders due to Israel’s continued military presence and activity

Reconsider Travel To:

  • Israel due to terrorism and civil unrest
  • West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest

Country Summary: Terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel, 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. The security environment is complex and can change quickly, and violence can occur in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza without warning.  Increased regional tensions can cause airlines to cancel and/or curtail flights into and out of Israel.

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.

If you decide to travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza:

  • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
  • Check the most recent Alerts at the Embassy website for the latest information on travel in all of these areas. 
  • Maintain a high degree of situational awareness and exercise caution at all times, especially at checkpoints and other areas with a significant presence of security forces.
  • Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
  • Follow the instructions of security and emergency response officials.
  • Beware of and report suspicious activities, including unattended items, to local police.
  • Learn the location of the nearest bomb shelter or other hardened shelter. Download the Home Front Command Red Alert application or similar apps for mobile devices (available on devices within Israel) to receive real time alerts for rocket and missile attacks and armed UAV intrusions. U.S. government employees in Israel are encouraged to use these apps.
  • Obtain comprehensive travel medical insurance that includes medical evacuation prior to travel. Most travel insurance packages do not cover mental health related illnesses/care. 
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter.
  • Review the Country Security Report for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
  • When traveling in rural areas, exercise caution given the possibility of unexploded ordnance. Do not touch or collect debris from rocket, missile, or UAV interceptions.

Gaza – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to terrorism and armed conflict.

The U.S. government is unable to provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Gaza as U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling there. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) continue to conduct military operations in Gaza against Hamas, a U.S. government-designated foreign terrorist organization, which was responsible for the October 7 attack on Israel. As a result of the armed conflict, the security environment within Gaza and on its borders is extremely dangerous and volatile. The pedestrian crossing (Erez Crossing) between Gaza and Israel was damaged on October 7 and remains closed, and the pedestrian crossing between Egypt and Gaza has been closed since May 7 and it is unknown when it will re-open.   There are sporadic telecommunication and internet outages within Gaza further inhibiting the ability of residents to obtain information.  

If a U.S. citizen, Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR), or qualified immediate family member desires our assistance and has not already provided their information to the Department of State, please email U.S. Embassy Jerusalem at JerusalemACS@state.gov with a copy of the individual’s travel document as well as an explanation or proof of relationship.

Visit our website for Travel to High Risk Areas.

  • If you decide to travel to Gaza:
  • Be prepared for an indefinite stay as the crossings between Gaza with Israel and Egypt can close without advance notice and for long periods during times of unrest and armed conflict.
  • Have a plan for entering and departing Gaza that does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
  • Households with infants and young children should plan for food and supplies, such as diapers and wipes, formula or baby food, and a change of clothing.
  • If you take medication, make sure to have at least five days’ worth at any given time – if you can, we encourage enough for two weeks beyond your scheduled trip and have a copy of your prescriptions handy.
  • If you use assistive or medical devices that require a power supply, be sure to find backup power or other ways that will sustain your device or equipment during a power outage.
  • Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
  • Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
  • Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them.

Please be sure to visit our website for How to Prepare for a Crisis for information that may be helpful.

Israel – Reconsider Travel (see below for specific advice on travel within 8 kilometers/ 5 miles of Lebanese and Syrian borders)

Reconsider travel due to terrorism and civil unrest.

The security situation remains unpredictable, and U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness as security incidents, including mortar and rocket fire and armed UAV intrusions, often take place without warning.

U.S. government employees in Israel under Chief of Mission security responsibility are currently restricted from personal travel to the following locations:

  • Within 11.3 kilometers/seven miles of the Gaza demarcation line; and
  • Within 2.4 kilometers/1.5 miles of the Israel-Egypt border.

Any official travel of U.S. government personnel within these areas requires approval from the Embassy’s security office.

Additional travel restrictions may be imposed on U.S. government employees under Chief of Mission security responsibility, with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats.

Northern Israel (within 8 kilometers/5 miles of Lebanese and Syrian borders) – Do Not Travel

The Israeli authorities restrict travel to areas close to the border given the Israeli Defense Forces continued presence and activity.

U.S. government employees in Israel under Chief of Mission security responsibility are currently restricted from personal travel within 8 kilometers/ 5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders as well as north of highway 89 toward Safed and the intersection with highway 90 and north/northeast of highway 91 from highway 90 to the border with Syria.  Any U.S. government travel to this restricted area requires Regional Security Office approval, and any travel close to the border is done in full coordination with Israeli security forces.

The U.S. Embassy strongly recommends that U.S. citizens do not travel within 8 kilometers/5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders.

West Bank – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to terrorism and civil unrest.

  • U.S. government employees in Israel under Chief of Mission security responsibility are currently restricted from all personal travel to the West Bank, except:
    • U.S. government employees can use Routes 1, 90, and 443 at any time. 
    • U.S. government employees are permitted personal daylight travel to Jericho and Bethlehem, including Beit Jala and Beit Sahour.   Given continued closures of checkpoints throughout the West Bank, the only permitted and accessible route into Bethlehem for U.S. government employees and their family members is through Checkpoint 300 near Rachel’s Tomb. 

Over the past several months, there has been an increase in settler violence, Israeli military operations, and terrorist attacks. Some incidents have resulted in injury or death of U.S. citizens.

Additional travel restrictions may be imposed on U.S. government employees under Chief of Mission security responsibility with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats.

Visit our website for Travel to High Risk Areas.

Fiji - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

2 weeks 2 days ago

Reissued after periodic review without changes.

Exercise normal precautions in Fiji. Some areas have increased risks. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Fiji.

If you decide to travel to Fiji:

  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter.
  • Review the Country Security Report for Fiji.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times and to be extra vigilant when displaying items like jewelry, bags and cell phones in public.
  • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Use caution when walking or driving at night.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Colo I Suva Forest Park - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Crime along the trails, particularly phone and bag snatchings, occurs frequently in areas where foreigners gather; resistance can result in injury.

Nauru - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

2 weeks 2 days ago

Reissued after periodic review without changes.

Exercise normal precautions in Nauru.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Nauru

If you decide to travel to Nauru: 

French Polynesia - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

2 weeks 2 days ago

Reissued after periodic review without changes

Exercise normal precautions in French Polynesia.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to French Polynesia.

If you decide to travel to French Polynesia:

Tonga - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

2 weeks 2 days ago

Reissued after periodic review without changes.

Exercise normal precautions in Tonga. 

Read the Country Information page for additional information on travel to Tonga.

If you decide to travel to Tonga:

Kiribati - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

2 weeks 2 days ago

Reissued after periodic review without changes.

Exercise normal precautions in Kiribati.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Kiribati.

Commercial transportation to/from Kiribati is sporadically available. 

If you decide to travel to Kiribati:

Tuvalu - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

2 weeks 2 days ago

Reissued after periodic review without changes.

Exercise normal precautions in Tuvalu. 

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Tuvalu.

Commercial transportation to/from Tuvalu is sporadically available. 

If you decide to travel to Tuvalu:  

Kosovo - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

2 weeks 2 days ago

Last Update: Reissued after periodic review with minor edits

Exercise increased caution due to terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Reconsider Travel To:
North Mitrovica, Leposavic, Zubin Potok, and Zvecan. Due to ethnic tensions, these areas have a potential risk for civil unrest.

Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting attacks in the Balkans region, including Kosovo. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. 

They may target:

  • High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
  • Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
  • Places of worship
  • Schools
  • Parks
  • Tourism infrastructure
  • Shopping malls and markets
  • Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Kosovo.

If you decide to travel to Kosovo:

North Mitrovica, Leposavic, Zubin Potok, and Zvecan – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Recent unrest has been politically related. While it has not impacted tourists or members of the international community, there is a risk that bystanders can be affected.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the north of Kosovo as U.S. government employee travel to North Mitrovica, Leposavic, Zubin Potok, and Zvecan is restricted. 

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas

Moldova - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

2 weeks 5 days ago

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise increased caution while traveling to Moldova. This is due to unresolved conflict between the breakaway region of Transnistria and the central government. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Country Summary: There have been reports of debris from airborne projectiles landing in Moldova, however there is no indication that Moldova is being targeted in Russia's war against Ukraine. The Chisinau airport is operating normally although there are no flights available to or from Belarus, Russia or Ukraine.

Read the Moldova country information page for additional information on travel.

If you decide to travel to Moldova:

Transnistria – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Transnistria. There is also military conflict in nearby Ukraine.

Transnistria is a region that is not under the control of the Moldovan government. Visitors must show identification to cross into Transnistria. Those without a Moldovan government-issued identification document will have to show a passport. Visitors may also have to show ID such as a passport at checkpoints. This is at roads leading into and out of the region. Ukraine has closed its border crossing points into the Transnistrian region. Taking photographs of military facilities and security forces is not allowed and may result in trouble with authorities. 

The U.S. government’s ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens traveling in Transnistria maybe be limited or delayed since Transnistria’s de facto authorities control access to the region.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Tajikistan - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

3 weeks ago

Reissued after periodic review with minor updates and information about dual nationality.

Exercise increased caution in Tajikistan due to terrorism, unexploded landmines, occasional violence near the border with Kyrgyzstan, and limited ability to assist U.S.-Tajik dual nationals. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Reconsider travel to:

  • Tajikistan’s border with Afghanistan
  • Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast

Country Summary: Terrorist organizations are known to have a presence in the region and have targeted foreigners and local authorities in the past.

Terrorist attacks can happen with little or no warning, with terrorists targeting public areas such as tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, restaurants, places of worship, school campuses, and government facilities.

Unexploded landmines and cluster munitions are a hazard along the Afghan-Tajik and Uzbek-Tajik borders, as well as in the Vakhsh and Rasht valleys. Heed land mine warning signs. Do not venture off the road into areas marked with red and white plastic tape. Avoid roadside ditches, shoulders, and unmarked trails in these regions. Never touch anything resembling unexploded munitions.

Be cautious when traveling near and along the Tajikistan-Kyrgyzstan border. There have been several instances of armed skirmishes between Tajik and Kyrgyz border guards over the past five years, particularly in the Isfara area and the Vorukh enclave.

Tajikistan does not recognize dual nationality with the United States. Dual U.S.-Tajik citizens and U.S. citizens of Tajik descent may be subject to additional scrutiny and harassment from local authorities and may be denied access to U.S. consular officials while in detention.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Tajikistan.

If you decide to travel to Tajikistan:

  • Enter Tajikistan on your U.S. passport and keep it with you.
  • Have a plan to depart Tajikistan which does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
  • Keep a low profile.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
  • Do not touch unknown metal objects and avoid traveling off well-used roads, tracks, and paths due to risk of unexploded ordnance.
  • If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Review the Country Security Report for Tajikistan.
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Border Areas with Afghanistan – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel in proximity of Tajikistan's border with Afghanistan due to terrorism. The current political situation in Afghanistan creates a challenging and unpredictable environment in the border areas due to evolving security conditions. Travel in the mountainous region along the Afghan border can be dangerous due to the proximity of militant groups across the border. 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.

Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO)– Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The challenging and unpredictable environment in northern Afghanistan has the potential to spill over insecurity into neighboring Tajikistan’s GBAO region. GBAO is a restricted region for non-Tajik citizens, requiring a travel permits from Tajik authorities. Violent clashes with security forces erupted in GBAO in recent years, and the government of Tajikistan can suspend travel permits for non-Tajik citizens on short notice.

Please visit our website for information on Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Macau - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

3 weeks ago

Reconsider travel due to a limited ability to provide emergency consular services. Exercise increased caution due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws.

Summary: The U.S. government has a limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Macau SAR due to People’s Republic of China (PRC) Ministry of Foreign Affairs travel restrictions on U.S. diplomatic personnel.

Even in an emergency, the PRC Ministry of Foreign Affairs requires all U.S. diplomatic personnel, including those accredited to the Macau SAR, to apply for and receive visas before entering the Macau SAR. This takes at least five to seven days, significantly limiting the U.S. government’s ability to offer timely consular services in the Macau SAR.

Dual nationality: The Macau SAR government does not recognize dual nationality. Dual U.S.-PRC citizens and U.S. citizens of Chinese descent may be subject to additional security and harassment. If you are a dual U.S.-PRC citizen awnd enter the Macau SAR on a U.S. passport, and you are detained or arrested, PRC authorities are under an obligation to notify the U.S. Embassy or a U.S. Consulate General of your detention and to allow U.S. consular officials to have access to you. In reality, however, U.S. consular officials may be prevented from providing consular assistance, even to those who have entered on their U.S. passports. For more information, visit Consular Protection and Right of Above in HK(SAR) for Dual Nationals – U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau.

Demonstrations: Participating in demonstrations or any other activities that authorities interpret as constituting an act of secession, subversion, terrorism, or collusion with a foreign country could result in criminal charges. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid demonstrations.

If you decide to travel to the Macau SAR:

  • Enter the Macau SAR on your U.S. passport and keep it with you.
  • Read the travel information page for the Macau SAR.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and to make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • Avoid demonstrations.
  • Exercise caution in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
  • Avoid taking photographs of protesters or police without permission.
  • Keep a low profile.
  • If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau immediately.
  • Review the China Country Security Report from the Overseas Security Advisory Council.
  • Do not consume drugs in the Macau SAR or prior to arriving in the Macau SAR.
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Follow U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau on Facebook and Twitter.
  • Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) page for the latest Travel Health Information related to the Macau SAR.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.
  • Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
  • Monitor local media and the Macau Government Tourism Office website for updates.
  • Review your flight status with your airline or at the Macau International Airport website.
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As a first step in planning any trip abroad, check the Travel Advisories for your intended destination.
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