Warnings and Alerts

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

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

Advisory summary

Unrest
Unrest and violence have decreased since summer 2024 with the formation of the Interim Government. Occasional protests continue with the potential for violent clashes. Conditions may change on short notice. U.S. citizens should avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones. They can turn violent quickly without warning.

Crime
In Bangladesh’s major cities, common crimes include muggings, burglaries, assaults, and illegal drug trafficking.

Stay aware of petty crime, such as pickpocketing, in crowded areas. These crimes tend to be situational, based on time and location. There is no evidence that foreigners are targeted because of their nationality.

Terrorism
Terrorist violence is a risk in Bangladesh. This includes terrorist attacks and other activity. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Kidnapping
Review the following risks in specific areas information on the Chittagong Hill Tracts Region for a description of kidnapping risks.

Travel restrictions for U.S. government employees
U.S. citizens in Bangladesh should take the same precautions as U.S. embassy employees.

• Due to security risks, U.S. government employees working in Bangladesh cannot travel outside the diplomatic enclave for non-essential reasons. They must take extra security and accountability precautions if they do.
• U.S. government employees in Bangladesh can travel freely within the diplomatic enclave.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Bangladesh, particularly outside of Dhaka. This is due to these travel restrictions, a lack of infrastructure, and few emergency response resources from the local government.

Level 4 - Do Not Travel - Chittagong Hill Tracts Region
Do not travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts due to unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. This area includes Khagrachari, Rangamati, and Bandarban Hill Tracts districts. Do not travel to this area for any reason.

• Kidnappings have happened in the region. Some are due to family disputes, while others target religious minorities.
• Separatist groups and political violence create more risks for visitors. There have been cases of IED explosions and active shootings.
• You must get prior approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs Office of Public Safety in Bangladesh if you want to travel to these areas.
• Due to the risks, U.S. government employees in Bangladesh cannot travel to the region. The Government of Bangladesh has imposed these restrictions.
• Visit our website Travel to High-Risk Areas.

If you decide to travel to Bangladesh:

• Avoid demonstrations and political gatherings. Demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. 
• Review our information on U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad, Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Review our information on Terrorism and Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your 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 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 Bangladesh.
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Bangladesh.
• 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 coverageDo not travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts due to unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. This area includes Khagrachari, Rangamati, and Bandarban Hill Tracts districts. Do not travel to this area for any reason.
• Kidnappings have happened in the region. Some are due to family disputes, while others target religious minorities.
• Separatist groups and political violence create more risks for visitors. There have been cases of IED explosions and active shootings.
• You must get prior approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs Office of Public Safety in Bangladesh if you want to travel to these areas.
• Due to the risks, U.S. government employees in Bangladesh cannot travel to the region. The Government of Bangladesh has imposed these restrictions.
• Visit our website Travel to High-Risk Areas.

The advisory level was decreased to Level 2. There were no changes to the risk indicators. The advisory summary was updated.

Exercise Increased Caution due to crime, health, and natural disaster risks. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Advisory Summary

U.S. government employee travel restrictions
U.S. government employees working in Jamaica are not allowed to use public buses or drive between cities at night. They are also not allowed to travel to certain high-risk areas, as noted below.

U.S. citizens in Jamaica should take the same precautions.

Natural disaster

Jamaica continues to recover from Hurricane Melissa, which made landfall there on October 28, 2025. The hurricane caused widespread damage to the western part of the island. Some areas are still experiencing post-storm impacts on infrastructure and services. 

• All major airports have reopened for commercial flights.
• Some areas in the western part of Jamaica, such as Black River and Montego Bay, are in varying stages of recovery from the hurricane. Exercise increased caution if traveling to affected areas at this time.
• Confirm availability of services and amenities at your destination before you travel to Jamaica.

Crime

• Violent crime is a risk throughout Jamaica. The homicide rate reported by the Government of Jamaica is among the highest in the Western Hemisphere.
• Tourist areas generally see lower rates of violent crime than other parts of the country.
• Armed robberies and sexual assaults are common.
• The U.S. embassy routinely receives reports of sexual assaults, including from U.S. citizen tourists at resorts.
• U.S. citizens report slow or unsatisfactory response to serious criminal incidents.
• When arrests are made, cases are often not prosecuted to a final verdict and sentence.

Health
Basic and specialized medical care may not be available in many parts of Jamaica. This includes slower emergency service response times and less availability of care for illness or injury.

• Health care facilities in western Jamaica were badly damaged by Hurricane Melissa.
• Private hospitals require payment up front before admitting patients. They may not be able to provide specialized care.
• Ambulance services are not always staffed with EMTs. They are not always readily available, especially in rural areas.
• U.S. citizens should bring extra prescription medication. Common medications, such as insulin, can be difficult to obtain.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not apply abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Air ambulance service to the United States costs $30,000 on the low end.
• We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance and confirm your coverage. Travel insurance should include medical insurance, evacuation assistance, and other trip coverage.

The Department of State does not pay medical bills.

Level 4 - Do Not Travel

High crime areas

Do Not Travel to high crime areas due to risk of crime.

U.S. government employee travel restrictions

U.S. government employees working in Jamaica are not allowed to travel to the following high-risk areas. U.S. citizens in Jamaica are advised to take the same precautions.

Do not travel to these areas for any reason:

• St. Ann’s Parish - Steer Town and the Buckfield neighborhood near Ocho Rios.
• St. Catherine’s Parish - Spanish Town, Central Village, areas within Portmore, including: Naggo Head, New Land, Old Braeton, Portmore Lane, Gregory Park, and Waterford.
• Clarendon Parish - All of Clarendon Parish, except passing through Clarendon Parish using the T1 and A2 highways.
• St. Elizabeth’s Parish - Vineyard District Community, between the communities of Salt Spring and Burnt Savanna, St. Elizabeth.
• Hanover Parish - Logwood and Orange Bay.
• St. James Parish/Montego Bay - Inland side of the A1 highway and The Queen’s Drive from San San to Harmony Beach Park.
• Kingston and St. Andrew Parish - Cassava Piece, Duhaney Park, Grants Pen, Standpipe, Swallowfield, Elleston Flats, August Town, and downtown Kingston, defined as between Mountain View Avenue and Hagley Park Road, and south of Half Way Tree and Old Hope Roads. Downtown Kingston includes Arnett Gardens, Cockburn Gardens, Denham Town, Olympic Gardens, Seaview Gardens, Trench Town, and Tivoli Gardens.
• Manchester Parish - Green Vale and Gray Ground neighborhoods of Mandeville.
• St. Thomas Parish - Black Lane neighborhood in Seaforth, Grands Penn, Church Corner neighborhood near Yallahs, Town of Yallahs, except when driving through on the main highway.
• Trelawny Parish - Clarks Town.
• Westmoreland Parish - Russia community in Savanna-la-Mar (The Southeastern quadrant of Savannah la Mar east of Darling Street and south of the A2 highway/Barracks Road), Morgan Bay, Kings Valley, The Whitehall, Bethel Town, and Red Ground neighborhoods of Negril.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

If you decide to travel to Jamaica:

• Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Do not attempt to bring firearms or ammunition. This includes stray rounds, shells, or empty casings. The penalties for carrying firearms or ammunition, even by mistake, are severe, and can include long prison sentences.
• Avoid walking or driving at night.
• Avoid public buses.
• Avoid remote places.
• Stay aware of your surroundings and keep a low profile.
• Have a plan to depart in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• 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 Jamaica.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Jamaica.
• 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 “Other” risk indicator was removed, and the “Unrest” risk indicator was added. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise increased caution in The Gambia due to crime, unrest, and inadequate health infrastructure. 

Advisory summary

Crime
Petty street crime and home burglaries happen often in The Gambia. This is most common in the Banjul area and tourist spots.

Do not display cash and valuable personal property. Avoid walking alone, including on beaches, in tourist areas, and after dark.

Unrest
A separatist rebel group operates in the Casamance region of southern Senegal. There has been sporadic fighting along The Gambia’s southern border in the recent past. Stay on main roads and do not travel at night if travelling near or across the southern border.

Health
The Gambia’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 may be unsafe.

If you decide to travel to The Gambia:

• Review our information on Crime Abroad and 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.
• Make sure your insurance includes medical evacuation coverage.
• Be sure to bring enough prescription medications to last the entire duration of your trip.
• Check with your doctor about required vaccines and shots for high-risk exposure before you go to The Gambia. Review the Health section in the Travel Guidance for The Gambia.
• 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 Gambia.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for The Gambia.
• 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 indicator was added. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise increase caution in Comoros due to crime, unrest and health.

Advisory summary
There is no full-time official U.S. presence in Comoros. Consular services for U.S. citizens in Comoros are provided by the U.S. embassy in Madagascar.

Crime
Petty crime is common in Comoros. Stay aware of your surroundings. Comoros has also had reports of piracy. Small crafts on the open seas are vulnerable to attack.

Unrest - Demonstrations
Protests occur spontaneously in Comoros and can happen due to political factors. Most protests occur in Moroni, and some have turned violent. Protesters have also engaged in the destruction of property.

Health
Healthcare, including ambulance services, is limited in Moroni. It is very limited in rural areas. Medical care in rural areas often requires transportation to Moroni. Medical evacuation from Comoros is often needed for significant injuries and illnesses.

Review the Health section of our Travel Guidance or more information.

If you decide to travel to Comoros:

• 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.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Keep a low profile.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Do not display signs of wealth, like expensive watches or jewelry.
• Do not answer your door at your hotel or residence unless you know who it is.
• Stay alert when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Purchase medical evacuation insurance. If you purchase medical travel insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from your medical insurance.  Be sure to follow their guidance and instructions for filing claims.
• Medical services for routine and emergency procedures are limited. Read the Health section of our Travel Guidance for more information.
• You should carry prescription medication in its original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Be sure to bring enough of your prescriptions (as well as over-the-counter medications) to last the duration of your trip.
• Review the Country Security Report for Comoros.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Comoros.
• 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.

This Travel Advisory reflects updates in U.S. Embassy Bamako’s posture as of January 9, 2026.  On October 30, 2025, the Department of State ordered non-emergency employees and family members to leave Mali due to safety risks.  As of January 9, 2026, the Department of State has normalized operations at U.S. Embassy Bamako noting the following conditions.

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

Advisory summary
As of January 9, the Department of State has lifted its ordered departure mandate for non-emergency Embassy employees and their family members.

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.
• U.S. citizens in Mali are advised to take the same precautions.

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 Westerners 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 spontaneously and turn violent. The majority of these are contained by security forces, but U.S. citizens should avoid street demonstrations and always maintain security awareness.

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 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:

• 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.
• 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 OSAC Country Security Report (formerly known as the Overseas Security Advisory Council) for Mali.
• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Draft 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 1 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

in Czechia.

Czechia is generally a safe destination for travelers. Travelers should remain vigilant against petty crime, such as pickpocketing and other minor theft, especially in tourist areas and on public transportation. Follow local laws and guidance from Czech authorities during your stay.

Review our travel guidance for the Czech Republic to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

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

Exercise Increased Caution in Benin due to unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to areas of Benin bordering Burkina Faso; Niger; and the Nigerian states of Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara due to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.

Advisory summary
Do not travel to the border region in northern or northeastern Benin for any reason.

U.S. government employee travel restrictions
U.S. government employees working in Benin are not allowed to travel to the following areas without Ambassador approval due to safety risks:

• Alibori Department
• Atacora Department
• Borgou Department in areas north, east, and west of Parakou
• Donga Department in the area north of Djougou
• Official travel in Borgou Department north, east, and west of Parakou as well as official travel in Donga Department north of Djougou is authorized for day trips only.
• Safety risks prevent emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in the areas of Benin bordering Burkina Faso; Niger; and the Nigerian states of Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara.
• There are no safety risks in Benin that would stop the U.S. government’s ability to offer routine or emergency services, except in the identified areas of concern.

Crime
Most coastal and southern areas of Benin are safe. However, violent crime can occur in remote locations. These crimes often happen at night and include kidnapping, assault, and armed robbery.

Stay aware of your surroundings in:

• Urban areas and crowded markets.
• Areas near roadblocks, which may be manned by armed groups. Armed groups are present throughout the country.

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

Terrorist and armed groups have attacked areas near the borders with Burkina Faso and Niger. There have also been kidnappings for ransom in areas of the Alibori and Borgou Departments near the Nigerian border.

Terrorists may target:

• Places frequented by foreigners anywhere in the country
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Schools
• Places of worship
• International diplomatic missions
• Local security forces

Unrest
There have been instances of military activity and civil unrest that resulted in violence in Benin. This type of violence may lead to road and land border closures as well as impacted operations at the Cotonou International Airport. Although U.S. citizens have not been targeted, sporadic military activity or civil unrest may happen suddenly and poses a risk.

Kidnapping
Kidnapping for ransom occurs in Benin. Criminal groups and terrorist organizations target both locals and foreign visitors.

Level 4 - Do Not Travel - Benin’s northern and northeastern border regions

Do Not Travel to areas of Benin bordering Burkina Faso; Niger; and the Nigerian states of Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara due to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.

Terrorists and criminal organizations carry out attacks in northern Benin. Foreign nationals and residents are at risk of kidnapping in this region. The areas of greatest risk are:

• Pendjari and W National Parks
• Alibori Department
• Atacora Department
• The Forest of the Three Rivers
• The Oueme Superior Forest
• All areas east of Route Nationale 10 up to the Benin-Nigeria border, including the cities of Kalele, Nikki, and Segbana

If you decide to travel to Benin:

• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Review our information on Terrorism, Travel to High-Risk Areas, Crime Abroad, U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad, and for Victims of Crime.
• Give your itinerary to a family member or friend.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 Benin.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Benin. 
• 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.

in Palau. Some areas have increased risk.

Palau is generally a safe destination for travelers. U.S. citizens should always exercise caution when traveling abroad. Use the travel guidance here to stay safe.

The advisory level was increased to 2. The “crime” risk indicator was added. Areas of increased risk were removed. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise Increased Caution in Grenada due to risk of crime.

Advisory summary
Violent crime can occur anywhere in Grenada. American citizens in Grenada have been victims of armed robbery, assault, burglary, and rape. In some cases, American citizens have been killed. Police response times are not as fast as one may expect in the United States.

If you decide to travel to Grenada:

• 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.
• Keep a low profile.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Do not answer your door at your hotel or residence unless you know who it is.
• University students: Contact campus security in the event of an on-campus emergency. Security staff may respond more quickly than local police.
• Boaters: Use caution if unfamiliar people or watercraft approach your boat, whether at anchor or at sea.
• 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.
  
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Grenada.
• 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.

to Russia for any reason due to terrorism, unrest, wrongful detention and other risks.

U.S. citizens in Russia should leave immediately
The U.S. government has limited ability to help U.S. citizens in Russia, especially outside of Moscow. The U.S. Embassy in Moscow has reduced its staff. The Russian government has also restricted travel for embassy personnel. All U.S. consulates in Russia have suspended operations, including consular services. 

Do not travel to Russia for any reason
The U.S. Embassy in Moscow has limited ability to assist in the case of a detention of a U.S. citizen. There is no guarantee that the Russian government will grant the U.S. Embassy consular access to detained U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens may serve their entire prison sentence without  release. The risk of wrongful detention of U.S. citizens remains high. Even if a case is determined wrongful, there is no guarantee of release.

Russian officials often question and threaten U.S. citizens without reason. Russian security services have arrested U.S. citizens on false charges. They have denied them fair treatment and convicted them without credible evidence. Russian authorities have opened questionable investigations against U.S. citizens for their religious activities.

There have been drone attacks and explosions near the border with Ukraine, and in Moscow, Kazan, St. Petersburg, and other large cities. In 2024, ISIS Khorasan claimed responsibility for the attack at Crocus Music Hall in Moscow. This attack killed 130 people. They also targeted places of worship in Dagestan. In an emergency, you should follow instructions from local authorities and seek shelter.

Dual citizenship
Russia will not recognize your U.S. citizenship if you are a dual U.S.-Russian citizen or have a claim to Russian citizenship.

• Russia has blocked U.S. consular officers from visiting detained dual U.S.-Russian citizens.
• The Russian government has forced dual citizens to join the military. They also have stopped them from leaving the country.
• In 2022, Russia started drafting citizens for the war in Ukraine. The military draft is ongoing.
• Failure to adhere to Russian laws and regulations on dual citizenship can result in arrest.

Demonstrations
In Russia, peaceful assembly and freedom of speech are not protected rights. U.S. citizens should avoid protests and taking photos of security staff at these events. Russian authorities have arrested U.S. citizens who have joined protests. Russians and U.S. citizens have been detained for posts on social media.

Electronic devices
Reconsider bringing electronic devices into Russia. U.S. citizens should assume all electronic communications and devices in Russia are monitored by Russian security services. Russian security services have arrested U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals based on information found on electronic devices. This includes information that was created, transmitted, or stored while in another country.

Debit and credit cards
U.S. credit and debit cards no longer work in Russia. Due to sanctions, sending electronic money transfers from the United States to Russia is nearly impossible.  The U.S. Embassy cannot assist with transferring money to circumvent sanctions. 

Air travel
There are few commercial air travel options available. It may not be easy to book flights on short notice. If you wish to leave Russia, you should make your own travel plans. The U.S. Embassy can only offer limited help to U.S. citizens trying to leave. Transportation options could become even more limited at any time.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has downgraded Russia's air safety rating from Category 1 to Category 2 due to safety concerns. U.S. government personnel are generally not allowed to fly on Russian airlines due to safety concerns.

Additionally, the FAA banned U.S. flights within certain areas of Russian airspace, by issuing a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM). This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of these certain areas. For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.

Laws and special circumstances
Russian officials have questioned, threatened, and detained U.S. citizens without reason. This includes both former and current U.S. government and military personnel, as well as private U.S. citizens. Russian authorities have a history of wrongfully detaining U.S. nationals and using them as bargaining chips.

• U.S. citizens may become victims of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion.
• Russian authorities do not always notify the U.S. embassy about the detention of a U.S. citizen. They may delay or deny U.S. consular help.
• Russian security services target foreign nationals and international organizations considered “undesirable.”
• Russian law allows authorities to punish foreigners for treason. This includes working for organizations that Russia perceives as acting against Russian interests. Former and current U.S. government employees and contractors should pay special attention to this part of Russian law.

Security
Drone attacks and explosions have taken place near the border with Ukraine and in Moscow, Kazan, St. Petersburg, and other large cities. In an emergency, you should follow instructions from local authorities and seek shelter.

Russia's war in Ukraine has destabilized security in southwestern Russia. In October 2022, the Russian government declared martial law in the following border areas with Ukraine: Bryansk, Kursk, Belgorod, Voronezh, Rostov, and Krasnodar.

Under martial law, authorities can:

• Set curfews
• Seize property
• Restrict movement
• Detain foreigners
• Forcibly relocate residents
• Limit public gatherings

Russian authorities have questioned, detained, and arrested people for “acting against Russia's interests.” Local authorities have targeted people for posting on social media or supporting "anti-Russian" groups. They have punished people for criticizing the government or military.

Gay and lesbian travelers
The Russian government's  "propaganda" law bans discussion of gay and lesbian topics. The community has been labeled as “extremist,” and it is considered a crime to support the human rights of gay and lesbian people in Russia. Displaying certain symbols, including the rainbow flag, is a crime.  Foreigners found guilty of violating this law may be arrested and detained for up to 15 days and then deported.

Terrorism
Terrorists continue to plan and carry out attacks in Russia. The March 2024 Crocus City Hall attack in Moscow proved terrorists can strike without warning.

U.S. government employees working in Russia are prohibited from traveling to the North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mt. Elbrus.

Russian annexation of territories
The international community does not recognize Russia’s purported annexation of Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya.

Russia staged its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, in part, from occupied Crimea. There is a heavy Russian military presence in these areas and intense fighting across these regions.

Russian authorities have abused foreigners and locals. In particular, they have targeted people who they see as opposing Russia’s authority.

The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv, Ukraine offers consular services to U.S. citizens in Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya. However, the ongoing war limits the embassy's ability to help U.S. citizens in these areas.