Aggregator

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Do not travel to North Korea due to the continuing serious risk of arrest, long-term detention, and the threat of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals. Do not travel to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea for any reason.

• U.S. passports cannot be used to travel to, in, or through the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK or North Korea) unless they are specially validated for such travel by the Secretary of State.
• Special validations are granted only in very limited circumstances. More information on how to apply for the special validation is available here.

Because the U.S. government does not have diplomatic relations with North Korea, it cannot provide direct help to U.S. citizens in North Korea in emergencies. Sweden serves as the U.S. protecting power in North Korea through its Embassy in Pyongyang and provides limited consular services to U.S. citizens. Additionally, the North Korean government has often delayed or denied Swedish officials access to U.S. citizens who are detained. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). This is due to the risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of North Korea. 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: The Department has determined that the risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals exists.
• The Government of the North Korea has subjected U.S. citizens to arbitrary entry and exit bans, expulsions, arrests, and other actions. The U.S. government cannot guarantee your release.
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or power of attorney.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and Alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel.  Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

Updated to reflect the end of ordered departure of eligible family members and authorized departure for non-emergency employees and updates to U.S. government employee movement restrictions.

Reconsider travel to Burundi due to political violence, crime, and health. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to:

• The former Central Market located on Chaussee Prince Louis Rwagasore in Bujumbura due to the risk of violent crime.
• Cibitoke and Bubanza provinces and Kibira National Park due to potential armed violence.

Country Summary: The possibility for political violence exists throughout Burundi. Police and military checkpoints are common and can limit movement. Police may search private homes for weapons. The borders may close without notice.

Violent crimes like assault, carjacking, home invasion, grenade attacks, and armed robbery are possible. Criminals may target foreigners and residents suspected of having large sums of cash. Local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to crimes.

Medical services in Burundi fall well below U.S. standards, and there are no adequate trauma services in the country. Emergency medical and fire services are limited or non-existent in some areas of the country. Even relatively minor health problems may necessitate a medical evacuation at the traveler’s expense. Medical evacuation insurance valid for travel to Burundi is strongly recommended.

Due to the risks, the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens throughout Burundi. U.S. Embassy staff are subject to restrictions when traveling in certain areas of Burundi and may be subject to other constraints as security conditions warrant. U.S. government employees working in Burundi are prohibited from travelling outside Bujumbura Mairie during hours of darkness (typically 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.).

Due to the risks, the U.S. government may be unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the following areas:

• The provinces of Bubanza.
• Cibitoke and Kibira National Park (including the park’s southernmost part in Muramvya province).

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

If you decide to travel to Burundi:    

• 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 Burundi.
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Bring a sufficient supply of over-the-counter and prescription medicines.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel.
• Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation
• assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States
• Avoid areas where there are large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations, and exercise caution in the vicinity of any such gatherings.
• Remain aware of your surroundings and be vigilant when traveling in unfamiliar areas or outside of cities and along border areas; take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.
• Prepare contingency plans for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Consider traveling in pairs and using convoys of multiple vehicles to mitigate the risks related to traveling outside of Bujumbura. Carry additional fuel, spare tires, and provisions. Include a map, navigation equipment, and first aid kit. Service stations are scarce in rural areas. Professional roadside assistance service is not available outside the capital.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter.

The former Central Market located on Chaussee Prince Louis Rwagasore – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Violent crimes, such as grenade attacks and armed robbery, can occur.

The former Central Market located on Chaussee Prince Louis Rwagasore is off-limits to U.S. Embassy personnel at all times.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Cibitoke and Bubanza provinces and Kibira National Park – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Armed persons and groups exploit porous borders and forested areas between Burundi, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo for movement and activities. U.S. government employees working in Burundi are restricted from travel to the following areas without special permission: the provinces of Bubanza and Cibitoke and Kibira National Park (including the park’s southernmost part in Muramvya province).

Due to travel restrictions on U.S. Embassy personnel, the U.S. government may be unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise normal precautions in the Czechia.

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

If you decide to travel to the Czechia:

• 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 the Czechia.
• 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 and return to the United States.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.  

Updated with information on upcoming national elections and the “If you decide to travel” section.

Reconsider travel to Uganda due to crime, terrorism, and laws targeting persons on the basis of sexual orientation.  Exercise increased caution due to potential security risks and the unpredictable nature of public demonstrations.  This includes demonstrations by political groups leading up to the January to February 2026 elections.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Country Summary: There remains a threat of terrorist attacks in Uganda.  Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Terrorist attacks have targeted:

• Religious venues
• Schools
• Government buildings
• Police stations
• Transportation hubs
• Areas visited by tourists.

These attacks have resulted in the deaths of Ugandans as well as foreign visitors.  U.S. citizens should remain alert and avoid large public gatherings. In 2023, ISIS-Central Africa attacked and claimed responsibility for killing two international tourists and a Ugandan driver within Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Violent crime is a real danger in Uganda. It includes armed robbery, home invasion, and sexual assault.  Both visitors and residents face these threats. Crime can happen anytime.  It is more common in larger cities, including:

• Kampala
• Jinja
• Entebbe
• Karamoja region
• Along Uganda’s western and northern borders

Police struggle to respond to serious crime in most places due to limited resources.

Laws Targeting Persons on the Basis of Sexual Orientation
The 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act (AHA) applies to both visitors and residents of Uganda.  The AHA increases the danger for persons who may be targeted on the basis of their sexual orientation, those seen as or perceived to be lesbian, gay, or bisexual, and those accused of “promoting homosexuality.”  They could face fines, imprisonment, or the death penalty and may also face harassment, violence, or attacks by vigilantes or mobs.  Assault and harassment cases linked to support for lesbian, gay, and bisexual persons have happened across the country.

Public Demonstrations
Protests can occur with little to no warning.  They often rise around political issues and events, like elections.  Primary elections will happen in summer 2025.  National elections are set for January to February 2026.  When protests, strikes, and demonstrations turn chaotic, security services respond with force.  They have used batons, rubber bullets, tear gas, and gunfire to break up the crowds.

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

If you decide to travel to Uganda

• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Keep a low profile.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry, or smartphones.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Do not open your door for people at your hotel or residence unless you know who it is.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by foreign tourists.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts.  It makes it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Be mindful that any public identification with or perception as being lesbian, gay, or bisexual, as either a member or supporter, could be grounds for prosecution, as well as violence.
• Remember that even private, consensual same-sex relations are illegal.
• Review the Country Security Report for Uganda.
• 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 and return to the United States.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel.  Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Country List : Afghanistan, Algeria, Benin, Cameroon, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Yemen, Indonesia, Sudan, Mali, Kenya, Guinea, Egypt, Zimbabwe, Angola, Liberia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Ethiopia, The Gambia, Republic of South Sudan, Uganda, French Guiana (France), Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Spain, Israel, including the West Bank and Gaza, Finland, Germany, Poland, United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland

Reissued after periodic review with edits to the area of higher risk in the border region with Tajikistan.

Exercise normal precautions in the Kyrgyz Republic.  Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Exercise increased caution in:

• The border region with Tajikistan.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to the Kyrgyz Republic.

If you decide to travel to the Kyrgyz Republic:

• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• ·Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and Alerts  from the U.S. Embassy to make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the Crime and Safety Report for the Kyrgyz Republic.
• 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.

We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

Border Region with Tajikistan – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution to areas within approximately 30 kilometers of the border with Tajikistan.  The March 13, 2025, signing and subsequent ratifying of a bilateral agreement between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan have facilitated the resumption of cross-border movement, but the situation remains fluid.  As of March 2025, two checkpoints on the border are open for transit.  There are no travel restrictions for Americans crossing the border.  However, visitors to the Batken region (especially the Batken and Leilek districts) should exercise caution and remain vigilant due to a recent history of border clashes.

U.S. government employees working in the Kyrgyz Republic are restricted from traveling to the Batken province without prior authorization from the U.S. Embassy in Bishkek. 

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits. 

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.  They target 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:

• Stay alert in tourist spots.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and Alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on X and Facebook.
•  Review the Country Security Report for Morocco.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• Prepare a plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel.  Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Reconsider travel to Bangladesh due to civil unrest, crime, and terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Level 4: Do Not Travel

• The Khagrachari, Rangamati, and Bandarban Hill Tracts districts (collectively known as the Chittagong Hill Tracts) due to communal violence, crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and other security risks.

Country Summary: Since summer 2024, civil unrest and violent clashes have largely subsided with the formation of the Interim Government.  Occasional protests continue with potential for violent clashes.  Conditions may change on short notice.  U.S. citizens are reminded to avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones, since they could turn violent with little or no warning.

Travelers should be aware of petty crime, such as pickpocketing in crowded areas.  In addition, crimes such as muggings, burglaries, assaults, and illegal drug trafficking constitute most criminal activity in Bangladesh’s major cities, but there are no indications foreigners are targeted because of their nationality.  These crimes tend to be situational, based on time and location.

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Bangladesh.  Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Bangladesh are prohibited from non-essential travel within Dhaka outside of the diplomatic enclave.

Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Bangladesh must obtain special authorization to travel outside of Dhaka. Authorization is not required for travel to Cox’s Bazar or Sylhet.

The U.S. government may have limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Bangladesh, particularly outside of Dhaka, due to these travel restrictions, a lack of infrastructure, and limited host government emergency response resources.

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

If you decide to travel to Bangladesh:

• Avoid demonstrations and political gatherings; demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and quickly escalate into violence. 
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust plans.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Get to a safe area and report any criminal incident to local authorities.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts including updates on consular services and so it is easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Bangladesh.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Please review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel.  Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Chittagong Hill Tracts Region – Level 4:  Do Not Travel
The Khagrachari, Rangamati, and Bandarban Hill Tracts districts (collectively known as the Chittagong Hill Tracts) experience occasional communal violence, crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and other security risks.  Kidnappings have occurred in the region, including those motivated by domestic or familial disputes, and those targeting members of religious minorities.  Separatist organizations and political violence also pose additional threats to visitors to the region, and there have been instances of IED explosions and active shooting.  Prior approval from the Government of Bangladesh’s Ministry of Home Affairs Office of Public Safety is required if you plan to travel to these areas.  Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Bangladesh are prohibited from traveling to the region.  Do not travel to these areas for any reason.

• Visit our website Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Do not travel to these areas for any reason.

Updated information on civil unrest and kidnapping.

Reconsider travel to Colombia due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Some areas have an increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to:

• Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments due to crime and terrorism.
• The Colombia-Venezuela border region due to crime, kidnapping, conflict between armed groups, and the risk of detention.

Country Summary: Violent crime, like murder, assault, and robbery, is common in many areas in Colombia. In some places, organized crime is rampant. This includes extortion, robbery, and kidnapping.

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity, in Colombia. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Terrorists and criminal organizations in Colombia may attack with little or no warning and target:

• U.S. government facilities
• Local government facilities
• Tourist areas and attractions
• Transportation centers
• Shopping malls and markets
• Military and police facilities
• Hotels
• Clubs
• Restaurants
• Airports

Political demonstrations are common throughout Colombia and can:

• Shut down roads and highways without notice or estimated reopening timelines.
• Lead to road closures that reduce access to public transportation.
• Interrupt travel within and between cities.
• Become violent and result in deaths and injuries.

Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Colombia are prohibited from:

• Going to Colombia’s land borders with neighboring countries without special authorization.
• Using motorcycles.
• Using street taxis or any public transportation that is not prearranged.

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

If you decide to travel to Colombia:

• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Check local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Keep a low profile.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Travel only during daylight hours.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and Alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Colombia.
• Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to these areas for any reason. Violent crime, like armed robbery and murder, is common in these locations. Terrorist groups are active in some areas here.

• Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Colombia are prohibited from traveling to these areas.

The Colombia-Venezuela border region – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to this area for any reason. Crime, kidnapping, and armed conflict are common here. Do not cross the border into Venezuela from Colombia. You may be detained by Venezuelan authorities.

• Due to the risks, the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens here.
• Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Colombia are prohibited from traveling to this region.
• The Colombia-Venezuela border is not clearly marked. Avoid the area due to the risk of accidentally crossing into Venezuela.
• Venezuela's Travel Advisory is Level 4: Do Not Travel. U.S. citizens trying to enter Venezuela without a visa have faced terrorism charges. They have been held for long periods.
• For more information, read the Venezuela Travel Advisory.

Updated to reflect changes for travelers with dual nationality

Do not travel to Burkina Faso for any reason due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.

Country Summary: Terrorist organizations continue to plan and conduct terrorist activities throughout Burkina Faso.

Terrorism
Terrorists may attack anywhere with little or no warning and may utilize various tactics including the use of common, commercially available items or the use of kidnapping for ransom. Targets may include but are not limited to:

• Hotels
• Restaurants
• Police stations
• Customs offices
• Areas at or near mining sites
• Places of worship
• Military posts
• Schools

Visit the U.S. Department of State's Country Reports on Terrorism to learn more.

The threat of kidnapping remains persistent throughout Burkina Faso, including in Ouagadougou and especially in the Sahel and East regions.

State of Emergency
The Transition Authorities of Burkina Faso have maintained a state of emergency in the following territories:

• The entire Saheland East regions
• The provinces of Kossi and Sourou (Boucle de Mouhoun region)
• The province of Kenedougou (Hauts Bassins region)
• The province of Loroum (North region)
• The province of Koulpelogo (Center-East region)

Due to the risks, the U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in most of the country. U.S. government employees working in Burkina Faso are prohibited from traveling to regions outside the capital due to security concerns.

Due to a historically high crime rate, the U.S. Embassy discourages U.S. government personnel from nighttime travel to the Balkiui and Rayongo (also known as Dayongo) neighborhoods of Ouagadougou’s Arrondissement 11.

For travelers with dual nationality, local authorities may not recognize your U.S. nationality if you are also a national of Burkina Faso. Read the dual-nationality-traveler page for additional information about traveling with a dual nationality.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Burkina Faso.

If you decide to travel to Burkina Faso:

• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Take steps to lower your risk of becoming a victim of violence, including limiting trips to places frequented by tourists.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Review your personal security plans.
• Remain aware of your surroundings and local events.
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
• 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 Burkina Faso.
• Prepare a backup plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

An increased number of cases of yellow fever have been reported in parts of South America. Country List : Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Peru

Reissued with minor changes.

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:   

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
• Do not answer your door at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable) and leave the original in your hotel safe.
• Provide your itinerary to a family member or friend.
• Monitor local media.
• 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 Serbia.
• 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. 
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel.  Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.  

Areas in several countries are reporting a low number of cases of Oropouche. Oropouche is spread primarily through the bites of infected midges (small flies) and mosquitoes. Country List : Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Guyana, Ecuador, including the Galápagos Islands, Cuba, Barbados, Panama, Venezuela

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise normal precautions in Kuwait.  Some areas have higher risks.  Read this whole Travel Advisory.

• Exercise increased caution in the Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh area in Kuwait City because of crime.
• Do not travel to the desert area near the border with Iraq because of bombs, shells, and landmines left over from the 1990 Gulf War.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR).  This is due to risks to civil aviation from political and military tensions in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Kuwait.  The notice advises U.S. operators to review current security and threat information and to report safety or security incidents.  For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration.  

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

If you decide to travel to Kuwait:

• Review local laws and conditions before traveling.  Kuwait has strict laws prohibiting the possession or trafficking of drugs (including marijuana) and alcohol.  Do not bring drugs or alcohol in your luggage and do not attempt to purchase them in Kuwait.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in places visited by large groups of people and travelers or tourists.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easy to access.
• Make back-up plans to leave the country.
• Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get alerts from the embassy. It makes it easier for us to contact you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook  and X.
• Read the Country Security Report for Kuwait.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information before you travel.
• You should make a safety plan for emergencies. Read the Traveler’s Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Desert Area North of the Mutla’a Ridge and Near the Border with Iraq – Level 4:  Do Not Travel

Desert areas and some beaches north of the Mutla’a Ridge still have unexploded bombs, shells, and landmines left over from the 1990 Gulf War.  Avoid areas that are “off the beaten path” and do not touch or move objects in that area.  They could explode.  These locations are not clearly marked, or the signs might be difficult to understand.  Do not travel to these areas for any reason.

Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh Neighborhoods – Level 2:  Exercise Increased Caution

The Kuwaiti police report that the neighborhood of Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh near the Kuwait International Airport is a high-crime area.

Updated to reflect threats against women travelers and increased risks in specific regions.

Exercise increased caution in Ghana due to crime and violence against women travelers and lesbian, gay, and bisexual travelers.  Some areas of Ghana have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Reconsider Travel to:

• The Upper East Region, North East Region, Upper West Region, and the western portion of the Savannah Region (all areas west of the N12 Highway) that shares a border with Burkina Faso and Cộte d’Ivoire due to civil unrest and crime.

Country Summary: Violent crimes, such as carjacking, street mugging, assaults, and rape do occur.  These crimes often happen at night and in isolated locations.  Sexual assault, such as rape, is significantly underreported and remains a serious problem.  While domestic violence is criminal under Ghanian law, police rarely respond to reports of domestic violence.  

• In urban areas and crowded markets
• When traveling by private or public transportation after dark as criminal elements may use blockades to slow down and restrict movement of vehicles

Ghanaian law contains prohibitions on “unnatural carnal knowledge” – generally interpreted as any kind of sexual intimacy – between persons of the same sex, though in practice, the law is largely used to target men.  Punishments can include fines and/or incarceration of up to three years.  Rhetoric and violence targeting individuals on the basis of sexual orientation have increased in recent years.  Individuals have reported safety incidents that include targeted assault, rape, mob attacks, and harassment due to their sexual orientation.

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

If you decide to travel to Ghana:

• Review our page for health and security risks for Women Travelers.
• See our Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Travelers Information page and  our Human Rights Report for further details.
• 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 Ghana.
• Prepare a plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel.  Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

Areas Near the Northern Border in the Upper East Region, Upper West Region, and western area of the Savannah Region – Level 3:  Reconsider Travel

U.S. citizens in Ghana should reconsider travel to the northern border areas near Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire due to civil unrest and crime.  Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Ghana must obtain special authorization to travel to the Upper West Region, the Upper East Region, the North East Region, and the western area of the Savannah Region.  The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas.  Be sure to read the Burkina Faso Travel Advisory here.

Local police may lack the resources to respond effectively to more serious crimes.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Updated due to change in travel advisory level to reflect changes in crime.

Country Summary: Exercise normal precautions in El Salvador. Gang activity has decreased over the last three years. This has caused a drop in violent crimes and murders.

U.S. government employees working in El Salvador are allowed to travel throughout the country during daylight hours. However, due to the risks, U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling between cities or departments at night.

There are exceptions. U.S. government employees are allowed to travel at all hours between San Salvador and:

• El Salvador’s international airport.
• La Libertad department.

U.S. government employees are prohibited from using public buses.

State of Exception

In March 2022, the Government of El Salvador declared a “State of Exception” in response to an increase in gang murders:

• The State of Exception allows local authorities to arrest anyone they think is involved in gang activity.
• It suspends several constitutional rights. This includes the normal protections of criminal procedure, like the right to a speedy or fair trial.
• Tens of thousands of people are currently in prison under the State of Exception.
• Several U.S. and other foreign citizens have been detained under the State of Exception. They remain in prison and have yet to face trial.

The State of Exception is still in place.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to El Salvador.

If you decide to travel to El Salvador: 

• Always use major highways and roads.
• Minimize travel outside of major cities at night.
• El Salvador has zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol. You can be detained for having any level of alcohol while driving. Do not drink and drive.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• When possible, travel in pairs or in groups, especially for long trips and in rural places.
• Avoid relying on online maps or applications. They might not accurately show local road conditions.
• Do not hitchhike.
• Ensure you have multiple forms of communication when traveling and the ability to charge your devices.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Stay alert when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
• Engage local guides certified by the national or local tourist authority when hiking in backcountry areas. 
• Use caution when swimming near El Salvador’s beaches. Follow water condition warnings.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for El Salvador.
• Prepare a backup plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States. 
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

Two students in Florida State University Panama City’s Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Program (DNAP) used their clinical skills to make […]

The post Sharing Smiles: FSU Panama City nurse anesthesia students assist cleft lip and palate surgeries in Mexico  appeared first on Florida State University News.

Serving time in prison for a crime he committed at 18, 52-year-old Florida State University student Eddie Fordham may not […]

The post Transfer students present at Florida State University’s Undergraduate Research Symposium appeared first on Florida State University News.

The emerging and transformative field of artificial intelligence has international implications that require global collaboration. To help bridge the gap, […]

The post College of Communication and Information associate professor participates in Fulbright Program at the University of Bologna appeared first on Florida State University News.

There is an outbreak of clade I mpox in Central and Eastern Africa. Country List : Burundi, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo , Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Zambia, Tanzania, including Zanzibar