Warnings and Alerts

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

Exercise increased caution in Botswana due to crime.

Advisory Summary

Crime

Petty crime and crimes of opportunity, primarily the theft of money and personal property, are common in Botswana. Potentially violent crimes are also common, including home invasions, break-ins, muggings, and “smash and grabs” from vehicles.

If you decide to travel to Botswana:

• 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 Botswana.
• Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Much of Botswana is remote and difficult to reach, even during an emergency.  Ensure you have a contingency plan for emergency situations, and 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 cancellation coverage.
• Bring enough prescription medications to complete your trip.
• Check with your doctor about required vaccines and shots for high-risk exposure before you travel to Botswana.  Review the Health section in the Travel Guidance for Botswana.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Botswana.

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

Exercise Increased Caution in Lesotho due to crime and health.

Advisory summary

Crime
Crime is common in Lesotho. Armed robberies and carjackings happen from time to time. Local police may not have enough resources to respond quickly when crimes occur.

Health
Lesotho’s health infrastructure is inadequate. Health facilities, services, hygiene, and quality control do not meet U.S. standards of care. Pharmacies are neither well-regulated nor well stocked. Locally available medications may be unsafe. Travelers have the option to enter South Africa for health services.

Make sure you have medical or travel insurance that includes medical evacuation.  Bring enough prescription medications to last the entire duration of your trip. Review our information on Travel Insurance.

If you decide to travel to Lesotho:

• 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 Lesotho.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Lesotho.
• Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Use caution when walking alone and avoid walking or driving at night.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Be extra careful when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Much of Lesotho is remote and difficult to reach, even during an emergency. Ensure you have a contingency plan for emergency situations, and use the International Travel Checklist.
• Buy travel insurance before you travel and make sure it includes medical evacuation coverage.
• Bring enough prescription medications for your trip.
• Check with your doctor about required vaccines and shots for high-risk exposure before you travel to Lesotho. Review the Health section in the Travel Guidance for Lesotho.

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

Reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, unrest, kidnapping, and inconsistent availability of health care services. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to:

• Borno, Jigawa, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe, northern Adamawa states due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping
• Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara states due to unrest, crime, and kidnapping
• Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers states (with the exception of Port Harcourt) due to crime, kidnapping, and unrest.

Advisory summary: 

Crime and Kidnapping
Violent crime is common throughout Nigeria. This includes armed robbery, assault, carjacking, kidnapping, hostage-taking, roadside banditry, and rape.

• Kidnappings for ransom happen often.
• They primarily target dual national citizens visiting Nigeria.
• Americans are perceived as wealthy and are often targets of crime and kidnapping.
• Kidnapping gangs have stopped drivers on interstate roads in order to rob and kidnap victims.

Terrorism
There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Nigeria.

Terrorists continue plotting and carrying out attacks in Nigeria. Terrorists collaborate with local gangs to expand their reach. They may attack with little or no warning, including:

• Shopping centers and malls
• Markets
• Hotels
• Places of worship
• Restaurants and bars
• Schools
• Government buildings
• Transportation hubs
• Public places where crowds gather

Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Unrest
Civil unrest and armed gangs are active in parts of Southern Nigeria. This is especially true in the Niger Delta and Southeast regions. Armed crime and gangs are common in the area. Crimes include kidnapping and assaults on Nigerian security services.

Violence can occur between communities of farmers and herders in rural areas.

Unreliable health care
Americans should not expect the same level of health care to be available in Nigeria as they do in the United States:

• Nigerian medical facilities are generally not equipped to U.S. or European standards.
• Many medicines are not available. This includes common medications for diabetes or asthma.  
• Bring enough over the counter and prescription medicines to last your entire stay in Nigeria.
• Make sure all your vaccinations are up to date. Consider getting boosters for yellow fever, meningitis, typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and polio.
• All visitors should take Malaria prophylaxis. Nigeria is high risk for Malaria.
• Counterfeit pharmaceuticals are a common problem.
• Hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
• Most hospitals and doctors do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Emergency services like those in the United States or Europe do not exist.
• Blood supply is often unreliable.
• Ambulance services are unreliable, have poor equipment, and often do not have trained paramedics.
• We strongly recommend getting traveler’s insurance, including medical evacuation insurance, before traveling.
• The Department of State does not pay medical bills for Americans overseas.
• The U.S. government cannot offer emergency services to Americans in many areas of Nigeria due to the safety risks.

Risks in specific areas -Level 4 - Do Not Travel

Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and Northern Adamawa states
Do not travel to Borno, Jigawa, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe, and northern Adamawa states due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.

• Do not travel to these areas for any reason.
• The security situation in these states is unstable and uncertain. This is because of widespread terrorist activity, violence between communities, and kidnapping.
• Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning.

Terrorist groups in the Northeast often target:

• Humanitarian camps
• Security forces
• Churches and mosques
• Schools
• Government buildings
• Entertainment venues
• Road travelers

Violence in Northeast Nigeria has forced about 2 million Nigerians to leave their homes.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto and Zamfara states
Do not travel to Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara states due to unrest, crime, and kidnapping.

• Do not travel to these areas for any reason.
• The security situation in these states is unstable and uncertain due to civil unrest.
• Widespread violence between communities and armed crime, including kidnapping and roadside banditry.
• Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers states (with the exception of Port Harcourt)
Do not travel to Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers states (with the exception of Port Harcourt) due to crime, kidnapping, and unrest.

• Do not travel to these areas for any reason.
• Crime is widespread in Southern Nigeria.
• There is a high risk of kidnapping, violent protests, and armed gangs.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

 If you decide to travel to Nigeria:

• 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 Nigeria.
• Carry proper identification, including a U.S. passport with a current Nigerian visa, if needed.
• Use caution when walking or driving.
• Keep a low profile.
• Review travel routes and times. Vary your predictability.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Check local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by foreign tourists.
• Avoid demonstrations and large political gatherings.
• Review your personal security plans.
• Have evacuation plans that do not depend on U.S. government help.
• Establish a “proof of life” protocol with your loved ones, so that if you are taken hostage, your loved ones know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to be sure that you are alive. This helps to rule out scams.
• Prepare a backup plan for emergency situations. 
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Nigeria.
• Get comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
• 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.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.

There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. An area of increased risk was removed. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise increased caution in Türkiye due to terrorism, armed conflict, and arbitrary detentions. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to the border region with Syria and Iraq due to risk of terrorism and armed conflict.

Advisory Summary

Exercise caution in crowded public spaces including transportation hubs, markets, malls, government buildings, hotels, restaurants, clubs, places of worship, educational institutions, parks, airports, and major events.

Terrorism

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

• Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Türkiye.
• Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations.
• Be cautious in transportation hubs, markets, malls, and government buildings, as well as hotels, clubs, restaurants, religious sites, places of worship, and parks. Be careful in airports and at major events.

Arbitrary Detentions

• The Turkish government has detained and arrested individuals, including Americans, for alleged links to terrorist groups based on scant evidence and minimal due process.
• Americans have also been subject to exit bans that prevent them from departing Türkiye.
• Protests not approved by the Turkish government can lead to arrest, as can criticizing the government, including on social media.

Risks in specific areas

Level 4: Do not travel

Border Region with Syria and Iraq

Do not travel within 10 km (6 miles) of Türkiye's borders with Syria or Iraq for any reason, due to risk of terrorism and armed conflict.

• There are heightened risks of anti-Western, specifically anti-U.S. or anti-Israel, sentiment. There is continued threat of attacks by terrorist groups.
• The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to Americans in the border regions with Syria and Iraq due to the safety risks. U.S. government employees working in Türkiye need special authorization to travel to these areas due to safety risks.

If you decide to travel to Türkiye:  

• 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 Türkiye.
• Review our information on Terrorism and Travel to High-Risk Areas. 
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Develop a communication plan with family, your employer, or host organization. Plan together how and when you'll confirm you are safe (text or call).   
• Stay alert especially in tourist spots.
• 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.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the International Travel Checklist.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Türkiye.

There was no change to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. Embassy operations.

Do Not Travel to Mali for any reason due to crime, terrorism, kidnapping, unrest and health.

Advisory summary

Do not travel to Mali for any reason.  

Due to safety risks, family members cannot join U.S. government employees who work in Mali.

U.S. government employee travel restrictions

• U.S. government employees working in Mali are not allowed to travel outside of Bamako due to safety risks. Due to the potential for terrorist attacks the U.S. embassy has implemented enhanced security measures.
• U.S. citizens in Mali should carefully review their own security preparedness.

Crime
Violent crime is common throughout Mali. Crimes include kidnapping, assault, armed robbery, home invasion, and carjacking.

• Violent crime is a major concern in Bamako especially during local holidays and seasonal events.
• Roadblocks, including by armed groups, occur throughout the country.
• In cities, police checkpoints are possible, especially at night.
• Highways across the country often face attacks on government, civilian, and commercial targets.

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

Terrorist and armed groups target foreigners to kidnap for ransom.

Terrorists may attack without warning:

• Spots frequented by foreigners anywhere in the country
• Night clubs
• Hotels
• Restaurants
• Places of worship
• International diplomatic missions
• Local security forces and civilians

Kidnapping
The threat of kidnapping of U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals by criminal or terrorist groups remains high throughout the region. Extortion and kidnapping for ransom are significant sources of financing for terrorist and criminal groups.

Unrest
Periodic street demonstrations occur throughout Mali. Although some are planned and peaceful, demonstrations can occur without notice and turn violent. The majority of these demonstrations are managed by security forces, but U.S. citizens should avoid street demonstrations. Always stay aware of your surroundings.

Armed Conflict
Armed conflict between the Malian government and armed groups is common throughout Mali. Many terrorist and separatist armed groups are active throughout the country. These groups may plan and carry out deadly attacks against Malian government and military facilities, including in and around Bamako. Conflict between these groups often results in civilian casualties.

Air Travel
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby Mali. For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.   

Health
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.
• Patients must cover all costs for transferring to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.
• Hospital-based care is only available through government institutions.
• Read the Health section of the Travel Guidance on this page for more information.  

For U.S. citizens in Mali:

• hvhv 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 Country Security Report  for Mali.
• The Department of State urges U.S. citizens not to travel to Mali.
• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations. 
• Establish your own personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization. Consider consulting with a professional security organization.
• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Prepare a will. Designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or draft a power of attorney.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care or 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 helps them manage your affairs if you cannot return to the United States.
• 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.
• Identify key sources of possible help for you and your family in case of emergency, such as the local U.S. embassy or consulate, FBI, the State Department, your employer (if traveling on business), and local friends or family in the high-risk area. 
• Choose one family member to serve as the point of contact. If you are kidnapped or taken hostage, that person can communicate with kidnappers or hostage-takers, media, U.S. or foreign government agencies, and members of Congress.
• 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 family to access them for identification purposes.
• Use all available safety measures in your home or hotel, always including locking doors and windows, and setting the alarm.
• If asked to stop by police, stop only in well-lit areas or places where several officers are posted.
• 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.
• Leave your expensive or sentimental belongings behind.
• 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 before you go to Mali.
• 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.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. 
• Review our information on Travel to High-Risk Areas, Crime Abroad, Victims of Crime, Terrorism, and U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad.

There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Do Not Travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo due to the Ebola Bundibugyo Virus Disease outbreak in Ituri Province in the DRC. Advisory summary was updated. 

Do not travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) due to crime, unrest, terrorism, kidnapping, and health. 

Advisory summary
The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) due to the health situation.

Health
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Travel Health Notice for Ebola for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

On May 17, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the Ebola outbreak in the DRC and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. 

Outbreaks of serious infectious diseases are common in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information before you travel.

The local 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 may be unsafe.

Travel restrictions for government employees
U.S. government employees working in the Democratic Republic of the Congo need special authorization to travel outside of Kinshasa due to safety risks. The U.S. embassy has extremely limited ability to provide routine or emergency consular services outside of Kinshasa. 

Due to safety risks, minor dependents cannot join U.S. government employees who work in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.    

Crime
Petty crime is common. This includes crimes of opportunity like pickpocketing and burglary. Violent crimes include armed robbery, armed home invasion, and assault. Criminals may pose as police or security agents.

Local police do not always inform the U.S. embassy when they arrest a U.S. citizen. They may also delay access to detained U.S. citizens or use violence and threats during interrogations.

Unrest
Demonstrations are common in many cities and can sometimes turn violent. Police may respond with force, resulting in deaths and arrests. Looting, assault, traffic obstruction, property damage, and other violent actions can happen when police don't respond quickly, or at all. 

North and South Kivu Provinces
Active fighting is ongoing between armed groups and government military forces in the Kivu provinces; the M23 armed group is occupying major cities of Goma and Bukavu. Missiles and armed drones have been used in the conflict. The fighting has forced thousands of people from their homes which can cause instability in the province.

Violent crime is common throughout the Kivu provinces. This includes murder, rape, kidnapping, and pillaging. Road travelers are common targets for ambush, armed robbery, and kidnapping.

Terrorist and armed groups operate in the Kivu provinces. They have attacked military and civilian targets. This includes aid workers, businesspeople, and other NGO staff in the area.

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

Demonstrations and large gatherings can occur throughout the region, especially in urban areas. Mobs can form rapidly and turn violent, posing a threat to bystanders.

Due to the security risks, U.S. government employees working in the DRC must obtain special authorization to travel to North and South Kivu Provinces. Due to the risks, the U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Kivu provinces.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Ituri Province 
Violent crime continues throughout Ituri province. This includes murder, rape, kidnapping, and pillaging. Road travelers are common targets for ambush, armed robbery, and kidnapping.

Terrorist and armed groups operate in Ituri province. They have targeted both military and civilian sites. This includes humanitarian aid workers and other NGO staff in the area.

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

Demonstrations and large gatherings can occur throughout these regions, especially in urban areas. Mobs can form rapidly and turn violent, posing a threat to bystanders.

Armed groups, individuals, and military forces routinely clash with each other. Civilians are frequently targeted in attacks.

Due to the security risks, U.S. government employees working in the DRC must obtain special authorization to travel to Ituri province. Due to the risks, the U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Ituri province.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Tanganyika, Haut Lomami, and the 3 Kasai Provinces 
Violent crime like murder, rape, kidnapping, and robbery are common in these areas:

• Tanganyika
• Haut Lomami
• Kasai provinces: Kasai Oriental, Kasai Central, and Kasai.

Road travelers are common targets for ambush, armed robbery, and kidnapping.

Demonstrations and large gatherings can occur throughout these regions, especially in urban areas. Mobs can form rapidly and turn violent, posing a threat to bystanders.

Armed groups, individuals, and military forces routinely clash with each other. Civilians are frequently targeted in attacks.

Due to the security risks, U.S. government employees working in the DRC must obtain special authorization to travel to eastern DRC Region and the 3 Kasai provinces. Due to the risks, the U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in eastern DRC Region and the 3 Kasai provinces.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Mai-Ndombe Province
Violence in Mai-Ndombe is rising. There are also more police and military in the area, especially along the Route Nationale 17. Government security officials may limit travel for U.S. citizens when violence rises. Activity of armed groups could block passenger and freight traffic on regional routes in the province. Protests can occur without warning.

Due to the security risks, U.S. government employees working in the DRC must obtain special authorization to travel to Mai-Ndombe province. Due to the risks, the U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Mai-Ndombe province.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas

If you decide to travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo:

• 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 DRC.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for DRC.
• 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
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Use caution when walking or driving.
• Always have a photocopy of your U.S. passport and DRC visa. Keep originals in a secure location. Carry your U.S. passport and DRC visa when crossing provincial borders or flying domestically.
• If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify U.S. Embassy Kinshasa immediately.
• Ensure that documents and medications are easy to locate in case you need to leave on short notice.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• Develop a communication plan with family, your employer or host organization. Specify how you'll confirm you're safe (text, calls, etc.), how often, and who you'll contact first to share the information.

The advisory level decreased to 1. There were no changes to the risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. embassy operations.

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

Advisory Summary    

Cyprus is generally a safe destination for travelers.

United Nations Buffer Zone

Do not try to enter the United Nations buffer zone anywhere other than a designated crossing point. Police and UN peacekeeping forces strictly enforce this restriction.

Armed Conflict 

Following the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, there were significant disruptions to commercial flights.  

A drone struck a building on the British Sovereign Base Area on Cyprus on March 2, 2026.

Review our travel guidance for Cyprus to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.  

Risks in specific areas

Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution

Turkish Cypriot Administered Area

Exercise Increased Caution in the Turkish Cypriot-Administered Area due to unrest.

• The U.S. Embassy in Nicosia has limited ability to help U.S. citizens in this area.
• Human rights reports show that central prison and police detention facilities do not meet international standards.

Since 1974, the southern part of Cyprus has been under the control of the internationally recognized Government of the Republic of Cyprus. However, the northern part of Cyprus is administered by Turkish Cypriots. It proclaimed itself the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” (“TRNC”) in 1983.

The United States does not recognize the “TRNC,” nor does any country other than Türkiye. A buffer zone, patrolled by the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus, separates the 2 sides.

For U.S. citizen travelers:

• Enter and exit the island of Cyprus only at Larnaca and Paphos airports or at the seaports of Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos. The Republic of Cyprus does not consider entry or exit via Ercan Airport or by a seaport in the north to be legal. U.S. citizens who leave the island from Ercan could face challenges returning to the Republic of Cyprus in the future.
• You cannot receive a residency permit from the Republic of Cyprus to live in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots.
• The Republic of Cyprus does not recognize residence permits issued by Turkish Cypriots. If you arrive to the island at a north seaport or Ercan airport or stay in the Turkish Cypriot-administered area for over 90 days, you may be denied entry into the Republic of Cyprus.
• The U.S. Embassy has limited ability to help U.S. citizens in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots. The Government of the Republic of Cyprus does not control the area. Travelers should consider this when planning their activities.

If you decide to travel to Cyprus:  

• 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.
• Follow local laws and guidance from Cypriot authorities during your visit.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information before you travel.  
• 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 cancelation coverage.   

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

Exercise normal precautions in Anguilla.

Advisory summary

Anguilla is generally a safe destination for travelers.

• Anguilla regularly experiences hurricanes. Review our information on Weather and Natural Disasters in Anguilla.
• Review our Travel Guidance for Anguilla to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

If you decide to travel to Anguilla:

• 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 the Eastern Caribbean.
• Before you leave the United States for Anguilla, carefully check your luggage for any loose ammunition or weapons you may have forgotten. Review our information on Local Laws and Customs in Anguilla.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Anguilla.
• 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 are no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise normal precautions in the British Virgin Islands.

Advisory summary

British Virgin Islands is generally a safe destination for travelers.

• British Virgin Islands regularly experiences hurricanes. Review our information on Weather and Natural Disasters in British Virgin Islands.
• Review our Travel Guidance for British Virgin Islands to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

If you decide to travel to British Virgin Islands:

• 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 the Eastern Caribbean.
• Before you leave the United States for British Virgin Islands, carefully check your luggage for any loose ammunition or weapons you may have forgotten. Review our information on Local Laws and Customs in British Virgin Islands.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for British Virgin Islands.
• 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 or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise Increased Caution in Timor-Leste due to risk of unrest and crime. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Advisory summary

• Police in Timor-Leste sometimes use force and tear gas against protestors. 
• Stone throwing attacks on vehicles can occur during gang conflicts and periods of unrest. 
• Sex-based violence and sexual harassment are common in Timor-Leste.

If you decide to travel to Timor-Leste:

• 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 Timor-Leste.
• Keep a low profile
• Always be aware of your personal safety and security. 
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Avoid demonstrations or crowds
• Keep travel documents up-to-date and easily accessible.
• Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Timor-Leste.
• 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.