Warnings and Alerts

There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

Advisory summary

Do not travel to Belarus due to:  

• The risk of harassment by Belarusian security officials.
• The arbitrary enforcement of local laws.
• The potential for civil unrest.
• Danger associated with its continued support of Russia’s war against Ukraine. 

The U.S. government has extremely limited ability to help detained U.S. citizens. You may not receive consular access. You could also face arbitrary detention with no contact with the outside world.  

Ordered departure 
On February 28, 2022, the U.S. Department of State ordered the departure of U.S. government employees. It also suspended operations at U.S. Embassy Minsk. 

There are no consular services, routine or emergency, until further notice. The U.S. government has severely limited ability to assist U.S. citizens in Belarus. U.S. citizens in Belarus who require consular services should leave the country immediately. Please contact a U.S. embassy or consulate in another country.

Dual citizenship 
Belarus does not recognize dual nationality. Belarus will not recognize your U.S. citizenship if you are a dual U.S.-Belarusian citizen or have a claim to Belarusian citizenship. 

• Belarus repeatedly has blocked U.S. consular officers from visiting detained dual U.S.-Belarusian citizens. 
• The Belarusian government has prevented dual U.S.-Belarusian citizens from departing the country. In some cases, it has forced dual citizens into mandatory military service.

Demonstrations 
In Belarus, freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly are not protected rights. 

• U.S. citizens should avoid demonstrations. 
• Belarusian authorities have used excessive force to disperse demonstrators, including people peacefully demonstrating.  Bystanders, including foreign nationals, face the possibility of arbitrary arrest or detention.
• U.S. citizens near demonstrations have been arrested. Some have been victims of harassment or mistreatment by Belarusian officials.  
• Belarusian officials unevenly enforce laws and regulations. Belarusian authorities have targeted people linked to independent and foreign media. 
• Belarusian authorities have detained tens of thousands of people, including many imprisoned for political activities that may not be considered crimes in the United States. This includes U.S. citizens tied to opposition parties or political protests, even if they happened outside Belarus. 

Detention conditions

Belarusian detention facilities are extremely poor. There are credible reports that authorities mistreat and abuse prisoners while in custody.  

• The Belarusian authorities have denied prisoners access to their embassy and lawyers. They have restricted communication with family outside prison.

Electronic devices 
Reconsider bringing electronic devices into Belarus. 

U.S. citizens should assume all electronic communications and devices in Belarus are monitored. 

• Belarusian security services have arrested U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals based on information found on electronic devices. This includes data created, sent, or stored while in another country.

Air travel 
There are few commercial air travel options available to and from Belarus. 

• Flights could be unavailable on short notice. The availability of other transportation options could change at any time. 
• Those wishing to leave Belarus should make their own travel plans. The U.S. government cannot help U.S. citizens trying to leave. 
• Border crossings with neighboring states sometimes close with little notice. U.S. citizens should regularly reevaluate departure plans in the event of an emergency. 

On May 23, 2021, Belarusian authorities made a commercial plane land improperly. They did this to arrest an opposition journalist on board.  EU airlines now avoid Belarusian airspace.

On February 24, 2022, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an ongoing Advisory Notice to Airmen (NOTAM). It bans U.S. air carriers and commercial operators, U.S. pilots, and U.S. registered aircraft from operating in the Minsk Flight Information Region (UMMV). This is due to safety-of-flight risks from ongoing hostilities in Belarus.

The Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices includes more information.

If you choose to disregard the Travel Advisory and travel to Belarus:

• Prepare a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or power of attorney.
• Share important documents, log-in information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States. Review this list of documents to prepare for your trip.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care and custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.) funeral wishes, etc.
• Leave DNA samples with your medical providers in case it is necessary for your family to access them.
• Develop a communication plan with family, your employer or host organization. List how and when you’ll confirm you’re safe (text or call).  Specify how often you will do this.
• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations. 
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Consider the unique risks of possessing dual U.S.-Belarusian nationality.
• Reconsider bringing electronic devices to Belarus.
• Log out of all social media accounts, and do not access personal social media accounts while in Belarus.
• Stay aware of your surroundings. 
• Stay alert in tourist spots.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities. 
• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans. 
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.   
• Review the Country Security Report for Belarus.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Belarus.  
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist. 
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.  

The Department of State renewed its Travel Advisory for Yemen on December 19, 2025. There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

Do not travel to Yemen due to risk of terrorism, unrest, crime, health risks, kidnapping, and landmines.

Advisory summary
U.S. citizens should not travel to Yemen for any reason. The U.S. Embassy in Sana’a suspended its operations in February 2015. The U.S. government is unable to provide emergency or routine consular services to U.S. citizens in Yemen.

Terrorism
The Department of State has re-designated Ansarallah, commonly referred to as the Houthis, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization.

• Other terrorist groups also plan and carry out attacks in Yemen. These include Al-Qa'ida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) and Islamic State affiliates.
• Terrorists may attack with little or no warning and may target:
  • Public sites
  • Places of worship
  • Transportation hubs
  • Markets
  • Government buildings and facilities

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

Review our information on Terrorism and Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Unrest
A civil war continues in Yemen. Although violence has decreased since the April 2022 truce, Yemen still faces instability. Fighting continues, especially near the front lines in central Yemen.

• Travelers should not rely on significant assistance from local authorities.
• Foreigners are frequently targets of kidnapping and carjacking, especially outside of urban areas.
• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Military conflict has destroyed basic infrastructure like housing, medical facilities, schools, and utilities. This makes it hard to get electricity, clean water, and medical care. Humanitarian groups face obstacles in delivering food, medicine, and water.

Crime
Violent and organized crime is common in Yemen. Local law enforcement may not be able or willing to respond to serious crimes.

Health
Health services in Yemen are poor. There is a re-emergence of diseases like cholera, polio, and measles. They are spreading in Houthi-controlled areas. Medicine and medical supplies are hard to find. Adequate medical treatment for routine and emergency procedures is often not available.

If you decide to travel to Yemen:

• Make sure you have medical or travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. Review our information on Travel Insurance.
• Check with your doctor about required vaccines and shots for high-risk exposure before you go to Yemen.
• Bring enough supply of over counter and prescription medicines to cover the duration of the trip. 
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Yemen.

Kidnapping
U.S. citizens, especially dual U.S.-Yemeni citizens, are at high risk of kidnapping and detention in Yemen.

• Young U.S. citizens may be kidnapped for forced marriage. Family members in the United States or Yemen are often involved in these kidnappings.
• The Houthis control Sana’a. They have detained U.S. citizens, including some with dual citizenship.
• U.S. citizens have faced difficulty and delays when trying to leave Yemen.

Review our information on U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad and for Victims of Crime.

Landmines
Landmines and unexploded ordnance exist throughout Yemen. The locations of landmines and unexploded ordnance are often not marked or easy to recognize.

Tourism safety
Do not travel to Socotra or any part of Yemen. Some companies outside Yemen have misrepresented the safety of the Yemeni island of Socotra

• They offer tourist trips with unofficial and invalid "visas."
• These companies put tourists in danger and legal jeopardy.
• Only the Republic of Yemen government can issue valid Yemeni visas.

The U.S. government cannot assist U.S. citizens in Socotra.

Aviation safety
Limited commercial flights are available from Aden and Sana’a to other airports in the region. Check with airlines and travel companies for the latest flight information.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Yemen, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices.

Maritime travel
Due to risks to commercial shipping operating within or in the vicinity of Yemen territorial waters, the Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) has issued a Maritime Advisory. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Maritime Administration’s Maritime Security Communications with Industry (MSCI).

The U.S. Coast Guard determined Yemeni ports do not have effective anti-terrorism measures. Vessels that arrive in U.S. ports from Yemeni ports must meet additional U.S. Coast Guard conditions of entry as described in the current Port Security Advisory, International Port Security Program - Port Security Advisory.

Mariners and passengers traveling through the ports of Yemen should exercise caution.

If, despite this Travel Advisory, you decide to travel to Yemen:

• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Bring enough supply of over-the-counter and prescription medicines.
• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or power of attorney.
• Make a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
• Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones. This is so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States. Review our International Travel Checklist to prepare for your trip.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Consider hiring a professional security organization.
• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Review local laws and conditions before traveling.
• Before you travel, delete any sensitive photos, comments, or content that might be seen as controversial or inappropriate in your destination. Do this for your social media accounts, cameras, laptops, phones, and other accounts and devices.
• Check with your doctor about required vaccines and shots for high-risk exposure before you go to Yemen. Review the Health section in the Travel Guidance for Yemen.
• Develop a communication plan with family, or your employer or host organization (if you are traveling on business). This is so that they can monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. Specify how you’ll confirm you’re safe (texts, calls, etc.), how often, and who you’ll contact first to share the information.
• Appoint one family member to serve as the point of contact if you are taken hostage or detained. Set up a proof-of-life protocol. If you become a hostage, that person will know what questions to ask and answers to expect. This will help them be sure that you are alive (and to rule out a hoax).
• Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Yemen.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Yemen.
• 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.

The Department of State renewed its Travel Advisory for Jordan on December 18. There was no change to the advisory level. The “other” risk indicator was removed. Advisory summary was updated.

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

Do not travel to:

• Mansheyat al Ghayyath, Ruwayshid, and the border with Syria and Iraq due to the risk of terrorism and unrest.
• Designated Syrian refugee camps in Jordan due to Government of Jordan’s restrictions on entry into these camps.
• Rusayfah city due to the risk of terrorism and crime.
• The Baqa’a neighborhood of Ayn Basha due to risk of terrorism and crime.

Reconsider travel to:

• Ma’an city and designated areas of Ma’an Governorate due to the risk of terrorism and crime.
• Zarqa city due to the risk of terrorism and crime.

Advisory Summary
There is risk of terrorism in Jordan. Terrorists may attack without warning, including such targets as:

• Tourist locations;
• Transportation hubs;
• Markets and shopping malls;
• Local government buildings.

Jordan is relatively stable but due to high tensions in the region, the security environment remains complex and can change quickly.

Mansheyat al Ghayyath, Ruwayshid, and the Border with Syria and Iraq – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to the towns of Mansheyat al Ghayyath, Ruwayshid, and Jordan's border with Syria and Iraq due to the continued threat of cross-border violence, terrorism, and crime.

• All U.S. government personnel must follow U.S. embassy travel restrictions for all official travel within 3.5 km of the Jordan-Syria border. All travel must occur during daylight hours.  
• U.S. government personnel must follow U.S. embassy travel restrictions for official travel to the towns of Mansheyat al Ghayyath and Ruwayshid along highway 40 towards the Iraq border. All travel must occur during daylight hours.
• Personal travel by U.S. government employees to these border areas is not authorized.

Level 4: Do Not Travel  – Syrian Refugee Camps 

Do not travel to Syrian refugee camps in Jordan. This is due to the Government of Jordan’s restrictions on entry into these camps.

All U.S. government personnel on official travel to the following three Syrian refugee camps must follow U.S. embassy travel restrictions:

• Azraq Syrian Refugee Camp, Azraq, Zarqa.
• Za’atari Syrian Refugee Camp, Al Zatryah, Mafraq.
• King Abdullah Park Syrian Refugee Camp, Ramtha, Irbid.

Official U.S. government travel to these camps must occur during daylight hours. Personal travel by U.S. government personnel to these refugee camps is not authorized. 

Level 4: Do Not Travel  – Rusayfah city 

Do not travel to Rusayfah city due to the risk of terrorism and crime.

• All U.S. government personnel on official travel to Rusayfah must follow U.S. embassy travel restrictions. All travel must occur during daylight hours.  
• Personal travel by U.S. government personnel to these areas is not authorized. 

Level 4: Do Not Travel  – The Baqa’a Neighborhood of Ayn Basha  

Do not travel to the Baqa’a neighborhood of Ayn Basha due to the risk of terrorism and crime.

• All U.S. government personnel on official travel to these areas must follow U.S. embassy travel restrictions. All travel must occur during daylight hours.
• Personal travel by U.S. government personnel to these areas is not authorized.

Level 3: Reconsider Travel – Zarqa City  

Reconsider travel to Zarqa city due to the risk of terrorism and crime.

• All U.S. government personnel on official travel to this area must follow U.S. embassy travel restrictions. When traveling at night, U.S. government personnel on official travel must use major highways.
• Personal travel by U.S. government personnel to these areas is allowed only during daylight hours. Direct transit through these areas is permissible at night along major highways.

Level 3: Reconsider Travel – Ma’an city and some areas of Ma’an Governorate 

Reconsider travel to these areas due to the risk of terrorism and crime:

• Ma’an city
• All areas of Ma’an Governorate east of Highway 15 (“The Desert Highway”)
• All areas of Ma’an Governorate within two kilometers to the west of Highway 15
• All U.S. government personnel on official travel to these areas must follow U.S. embassy travel restrictions. When traveling at night, U.S. government personnel on official travel must use major highways.  
• Personal travel by U.S. government personnel to these areas is allowed only during daylight hours. Direct transit through these areas is permissible at night along major highways. 

Review our information on Terrorism and Travel to High-Risk Areas.

If you decide to travel to Jordan:

• There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Jordan. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Review local laws and conditions before traveling.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Jordan.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Jordan.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise normal precautions in Cabo Verde.

Advisory Summary
Cabo Verde is generally a safe destination for travelers. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution - Praia
There is an increased risk of crime in Praia. This includes petty crime like pickpocketing or purse snatching, as well as violent crime like mugging, armed robbery, or assault.

If you decide to travel to Cabo Verde:

• Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• 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.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Cabo Verde.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Cabo Verde.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

There was no change to the advisory level.  The “health” risk indictor was added. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise increased caution in Liberia due to crime, unrest, and health.

Advisory summary

Crime
Violent crime, such as armed robbery are common in urban areas, crowded markets, and public beaches. Local police lack the resources to respond effectively to serious crimes.

If traveling outside the capital city of Monrovia, try to finish your trip during daylight hours. It’s safer to avoid travel at night due to safety and security concerns. 

Unrest
Demonstrations occur regularly. They have on occasion resulted in violence or use of tear gas by authorities.

Large-scale demonstrations related to the local political situation may
occur with little notice. Demonstrations may disrupt transportation
and other essential services

Health

• The health infrastructure in Liberia is inadequate. Health services, hygiene, and quality control do not meet U.S. standards of care. 
• Pharmacies are not well regulated. Locally available medications may be unsafe.
• Medical services for routine and emergency procedures are limited. Health facilities are available in major cities. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.

Review the Health section of the Travel Guidance on this page for more information.

U.S. government employee travel restrictions

• U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling outside the capital or between counties after dark due to the safety and security risk. The only exception is travel to and from Roberts International Airport.
• U.S. citizens in Liberia are advised to take the same precautions.

If you decide to travel to Liberia:

• Review our information on Crime Abroad and Victims of Crime.
• Review our information on U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad.
• Carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable). Leave originals in your hotel safe.
• Do not display signs of wealth, like expensive watches or jewelry.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Refer to our list of medical providers.
• Make sure your insurance includes medical evacuation coverage.
• Check with your doctor about required vaccines and shots for high-risk exposure to malaria and yellow fever before you go to Liberia.
  Bring enough supplies of over the counter and prescription medicines in your carry-on luggage.to cover the duration of the trip.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Overseas Security Advisory Council Country Security Report for Liberia.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Liberia. 
• Whether you are a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

There were no changes to the advisory level. The “Crime” indicator was removed. The “Other” indicator was added. The advisory summary was updated.

Reconsider travel to Guinea-Bissau due to unrest, inadequate health infrastructure, and landmines.

Advisory Summary
There is no U.S. embassy or consulate in Guinea-Bissau. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens. Consular services are provided by the U.S. embassy in Dakar, Senegal.

Unrest
Guinea-Bissau has had periods of political instability for decades, including political unrest in November 2025. Large-scale demonstrations related to the local political situation may occur with little notice. Demonstrations may disrupt transportation and other essential services.

Health
Guinea-Bissau’s health infrastructure is inadequate. Health services, hygiene, and quality control do not meet U.S. standards of care. Pharmacies are not well regulated. Locally available medications are limited and may be unsafe. Even a minor health issue may require medical evacuation at your own expense.

Landmines
Landmines and unexploded ordnance from prior conflicts exist throughout Guinea-Bissau. Areas of greatest risk are Bafata, Oio, Biombo, Quinara, and Tombali. The locations of landmines and unexploded ordnance are often not known, marked, or easy to recognize.

If you decide to travel to Guinea-Bissau:

• Review our information on Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Refer to our list of medical providers.
• Make sure your insurance includes medical evacuation coverage.
• Do not visit locations where landmines are known to exist. Be alert to signs that mark unexploded landmines. Stay on main roads and do not travel at night.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Guinea-Bissau.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Guinea-Bissau, including which vaccines are recommended prior to your travel.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

Do not travel to Syria for any reason due to the risk of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, hostage taking, crime, and armed conflict.

Advisory Summary

Do not travel to Syria for any reason.
The U.S. government suspended U.S. Embassy operations in 2012. The Czech Republic is the protecting power for the United States in Syria. The U.S. government cannot offer emergency or routine consular services to U.S. citizens in Syria due to the safety risks.

Armed conflict
Syria has experienced active armed conflict since 2011. No part of Syria is safe from violence. Hostage taking, terrorism, unexploded ordnance, and aerial bombardment 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 in Syria.

The U.S. government strongly warns private U.S. citizens against traveling to Syria to engage in armed conflict. The U.S. government does not support this activity. U.S. citizens who undertake such activity face extreme personal risks, including being taken hostage, injury, or death.

Terrorism
There is risk of terrorist violence in Syria. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.

• Bombings, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and assassinations remain a threat in parts of Syria.
• Providing material support or resources to designated foreign terrorist organizations, including ISIS and al-Qa’ida (AQ) affiliates, is a crime under U.S. law that can result in prison time and large fines.

Hostage taking
Hostage taking of U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals continues to be a risk throughout the country.

• Detainees may lack access to fair judicial process or medical attention.
• Detention centers can be harsh and unsanitary.
• You can be detained if you do not get your entry visa directly from the Syrian government.

Air travel
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby Syria.

• For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.
• Review our Travel Guidance for additional information on Syria, including alerts related to the closure of airspace.

Maritime travel
The U.S. Coast Guard determined Syrian ports do not have effective anti-terrorism measures. Vessels that arrive in U.S. ports from Syrian ports must meet additional U.S. Coast Guard conditions of entry as described in the current Port Security Advisory, International Port Security Program - Port Security Advisory.

Mariners and passengers traveling through Syrian ports should be careful and use strong security measures.

Czech Protecting Power in Damascus
The U.S. government suspended U.S. Embassy operations in 2012. The Czech Republic serves as the protecting power for the United States in Syria.

The Czech Protecting Power provides only emergency services to U.S. citizens, including:

• Acceptance of applications for emergency passports
• Consular Report of Death Abroad (CRODA) applications
• Emergency financial assistance
• Assistance to detained U.S. nationals
• Welfare and whereabouts checks for U.S. citizens when security conditions permit

For routine consular services, including applying for a full-validity U.S. passport or Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA), and notarial services, U.S. citizens must visit a U.S. embassy or consulate outside Syria or return to the United States.

For U.S. citizens in Syria:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts,
• Review our information on Terrorism and Travel to High Risk Areas.
• There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Syria. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.
• Review our information on U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad, for Crime Abroad, and for Victims of Crime.
• Have a plan to depart in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Prepare a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or power of attorney.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Familiarize yourself with and respect local laws and customs. Foreign travelers may face increased risk of detention and harassment.
• Establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones. If you are taken hostage, your loved ones will know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to confirm that you are being held captive and alive.
• Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your loved ones to access them for identification purposes.
• Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones. This helps them manage your affairs if you cannot return to the United States.
• Check local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Develop a communication plan with family, your employer, or host organization. This helps them monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. Specify how you'll confirm you're safe (text, calls, etc.), how often, and who you'll contact first to share the information. Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Syria.
• Be aware of possible online dating scams, either for potential financial theft or physical harm.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel 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.

There was no change to the advisory level. An area of increased risk was added. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise Normal Precautions in Seychelles. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Advisory summary
Seychelles is generally a safe destination for travelers. Read our travel guidance for Seychelles to learn how to prepare for a safe trip. The United States does not maintain a consular presence in Seychelles. Contact the U.S. embassy in Port Louis, Mauritius, if you need help in an emergency while in Seychelles.

Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution - Praslin, La Digue, and the outer islands

Exercise Increased Caution in Praslin, La Digue, and the outer islands due to health risks. Smaller islands like these lack medical infrastructure required to treat common traumas or illnesses. Patients must travel to the island of Mahé via boat or plane to receive care.

• Refer to our list of medical providers.
• Make sure your insurance includes medical evacuation coverage. Review our information on Travel Insurance.

If you decide to travel to Seychelles:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Seychelles.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Seychelles.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
• Make sure you have medical or travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage. Review our information on Travel Insurance.

in Mauritius due to crime.

Crime
Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity. This includes pickpocketing, purse snatchings, and petty thefts. 

Petty crime occurs in crowded outdoor shopping areas, beaches, and other tourist spots. It also happens near ATMs.

Other serious crimes in Mauritius include:

• Break-ins
• Violent crimes (serious assaults, murder, rape)
• Verbal harassment and other crimes towards women traveling alone
• Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.

to Uganda due to crime, terrorism, unrest, and laws targeting persons based on sexual orientation. 

Crime
Violent crime is a real danger in Uganda. This includes armed robbery, home invasion, and sexual assault. Crime can happen anytime. It is more common in larger cities, the Karamoja region, and along Uganda’s western and northern borders. 

Both visitors and residents face these threats. Police struggle to respond to serious crime in most places due to limited resources.

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

Terrorist groups have targeted:

• Religious venues
• Schools
• Government buildings
• Police stations
• Transportation hubs
• Areas visited by tourists, including national parks

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. 

Unrest
Protests can happen with little to no warning. They often develop around political issues and events, like elections. National elections are set for January 15, 2026. Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

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. 

Laws targeting persons based on sexual orientation
The 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act (AHA) criminalizes consensual same-sex relations in Uganda. The law applies to both visitors and residents. 

The AHA increases the danger for persons who may be targeted based on their real or perceived sexual orientation, and those accused of “promoting homosexuality.” Penalties include life imprisonment or the death penalty. 

Those seen as supporting gay and lesbian people have experienced harassment and violence by vigilantes.