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Your homeland government maintains a listing of travel and safety alerts with information and advice on developing situations that may affect the safety and well-being of travelers and vacationers. We use RSS feeds to attempt to maintain regularly updated information on the security, entry and exit requirements, health conditions, local laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, and how to find help when you are in a specific nation.

No matter where in the world you intend to travel, make sure you check your destination country’s travel advice and advisories page twice: once when you are planning your trip, and again shortly before you leave. If the region or the country you will be visiting becomes subject to a travel advisory, your travel health insurance or your trip cancellation insurance may be affected. You are solely responsible for your travel decisions.

▣ The following travel alerts and warnings have been issued to alert travelers of potential risks in certain countries and regions.

  • Mon, 06 Feb 2023 16:42:56 +0000: Lebanon - Travel Advice Summary

    A major earthquake (7.8) hit the Gaziantep region of Southeast Turkey on 6 February 2023. A further earthquake (7.5) was felt later in the day. There have been several strong aftershocks reported in Lebanon and the risk of further aftershocks remains. ('Summary' page).

  • Mon, 06 Feb 2023 16:23:54 +0000: Turkey - Travel Advice Summary

    A 7.8 earthquake hit Gaziantep and nine other Turkish provinces (Hatay, Osmaniye, Adıyaman, Diyarbakır, Sanliurfa, Kahramanmaras, Kilis, Adana, Malatya) in the south east of Turkey on 6 February 2023. It was followed by a 7.5 earthquake the same day in Kahramanmaras. (‘Summary’ page).

  • Mon, 06 Feb 2023 16:22:14 +0000: Democratic Republic of the Congo - Travel Advice Summary

    Information on protests in Goma on 6 February 2023 ('Summary' and ‘Safety and Security’ pages).

  • Mon, 06 Feb 2023 15:30:45 +0000: Syria - Travel Advice Summary

    Information on a 7.8 major earthquake that hit the Gazientep region of Southeast Turkey on 6 February 2023 which has also severely impacted cities in Northern Syria including Idlib and Aleppo ('Summary' page).

  • Mon, 06 Feb 2023 11:04:48 +0000: Sri Lanka - Travel Advice Summary

    Removal of information about restricted access to Galle Face Green and surrounding areas 3-4 February 2023 ('Summary' page).

Airport Safety

▣ The following travel alerts and warnings have been issued to alert travelers of potential risks in certain countries and regions.

  • Wed, 01 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0000: Lebanon - Level 3: Reconsider Travel - travel.state.gov: Travel Advisories

    Reissued after periodic review.

    Reconsider travel to Lebanon due to crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping and Embassy Beirut’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

    Do Not Travel to:

    • the border with Syria due to terrorism and armed conflict
    •  the border with Israel due to the potential for armed conflict
    • refugee settlements due to the potential for armed clashes

    Country Summary: Local security authorities have noted a rise in violent crimes, including political violence. Multiple unsolved killings in Lebanon may have been politically motivated. U.S. citizens living and working anywhere in Lebanon should be aware of the risks of remaining in the country and review their personal security plans.

    U.S. citizens who choose to travel to Lebanon should be aware that consular officers from the U.S. Embassy are not always able to travel to assist them. The Department of State considers the threat to U.S. government personnel in Beirut sufficiently serious to require them to live and work under strict security. The internal security policies of the U.S. Embassy may be adjusted at any time and without advance notice.

    Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Lebanon. Terrorists may conduct attacks with little or no warning targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.

    The Lebanese government cannot guarantee the protection of U.S. citizens against sudden outbreaks of violence. Family, neighborhood, or sectarian disputes can escalate quickly and can lead to gunfire or other violence with no warning. Armed clashes have occurred along the borders, in Beirut, and in refugee settlements. The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) have been brought in to quell the violence in these situations.

    U.S. citizens should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings or protests as some of these have turned violent. Protesters have blocked major roads, including thoroughfares between downtown Beirut and the area where the U.S. Embassy is located, and between Beirut and Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport.

    Kidnapping, whether for ransom, political motives, or family disputes, has occurred in Lebanon. Suspects in kidnappings may have ties to terrorist or criminal organizations.

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

    If you decide to travel to Lebanon:  

    Border with Syria – Level 4: Do Not Travel

    For years Lebanon has witnessed deadly terror attacks in border towns along Lebanon’s border with Syria, including episodic clashes between the LAF and Syrian-based violent extremist groups. A 2017 LAF offensive expelled ISIS militants from territory along Lebanon’s border with Syria. The U.S. Embassy strongly urges U.S. citizens to avoid the Lebanon-Syria border region. The U.S. Department of State also warns U.S. citizens of the risk of traveling on flights that fly over Syria, which include some flights to and from Beirut.

    Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

    Border with Israel – Level 4: Do Not Travel

    There have been sporadic rocket, missile, and artillery exchanges between Israel and Hizballah impacting southern Lebanon, most recently in April 2022. The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to avoid this border area.

    Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

    Refugee Settlements – Level 4: Do Not Travel

    The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to avoid travel to refugee settlements, which are prone to outbreaks of violence including shootings and explosions.

    Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

  • Thu, 26 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000: Iran - Level 4: Do Not Travel - travel.state.gov: Travel Advisories

    Last Update: Reissued with updates to health information

    Do not travel to Iran due to the risk of kidnapping and the arbitrary arrest and detention of U.S. citizens. Exercise increased caution due to wrongful detentions.  

    Country Summary: U.S. citizens visiting or residing in Iran have been kidnapped, arrested, and detained on spurious charges. The Department has determined that at least one U.S. national is wrongfully detained by the Iranian government.

    Iranian authorities continue to unjustly detain and imprison U.S. nationals, particularly dual national U.S.-Iranian nationals--including students, journalists, business travelers, and academics--on charges including espionage and posing a threat to national security. Iranian authorities routinely delay consular access to detained U.S. nationals and consistently deny consular access to dual U.S.-Iranian nationals.

    The U.S. government does not have diplomatic or consular relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran. The U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Iran.

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

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

    If you are currently in Iran:

    • Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before planning any international travel, and read the COVID-19 page for the U.S. Virtual Embassy in Iran for country-specific COVID-19 information.    
    • Consider the risks involved in possessing dual U.S. Iranian nationality.
    •  Review your personal security plan and visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
    • Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
    • Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
    • Establish your own personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization or consider consulting with a professional security organization.
    • Have a plan for departing Iran that does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
    • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
    • Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
    • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
    • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
  • Thu, 26 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000: Bolivia - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution - travel.state.gov: Travel Advisories

    Last Update: Reissued after periodic review with updates to information about the Chapare and Yungas regions.

    Exercise increased caution in Bolivia due to civil unrest. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

    Do not travel to:

    • Chapare region due to crime.

    Reconsider travel to:

    • Yungas region due to crime.

    Country Summary: Demonstrations, strikes, and roadblocks can occur at any time in Bolivia. Demonstrations can result in violence. Roadblocks and strikes may cut off traffic and restrict the flow of goods and services around the country. Domestic and international flights may be delayed or unexpectedly cancelled.

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

    If you decide to travel to Bolivia:

    Chapare Region: Do Not Travel

    Due to a high level of violent crime, the U.S. government is limited in its ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Chapare region. U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel there.

    Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

    Yungas Region: Reconsider Travel

    Organized criminal groups near Corioco and Carnavi in Yungas have committed carjackings and robberies. The U.S. government is limited in its ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Yungas area. U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel there.

    Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

  • Fri, 20 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000: Nigeria - Level 3: Reconsider Travel - travel.state.gov: Travel Advisories

    Last Updated: Reissued with updates to staffing and do not travel areas

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

    U.S. Embassy Abuja is only able to provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens in Abuja.  U.S. Consulate in Lagos is providing all routine and emergency services to U.S. citizens in Nigeria.  U.S. citizens in Nigeria who require assistance should contact LagosACS@state.gov or +234 1 460 3410.

    Do Not Travel to:

    • Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and northern Adamawa states due to terrorism and kidnapping
    • Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, and Zamfara states due to kidnapping
    • Coastal areas of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, and Rivers states (with the exception of Port Harcourt) due to crime, kidnapping, and maritime crime

    Country Summary: 

    Violent crime – such as armed robbery, assault, carjacking, kidnapping, hostage taking, banditry, and rape – is common throughout the country.  Kidnappings for ransom occur frequently, often targeting dual national citizens who have returned to Nigeria for a visit, as well as U.S. citizens with perceived wealth.  Kidnapping gangs have also stopped victims on interstate roads.

    Terrorists continue plotting and carrying out attacks in Nigeria.  Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting shopping centers, malls, markets, hotels, places of worship, restaurants, bars, schools, government installations, transportation hubs, and other places where crowds gather.  Terrorists are known to work with local gangs to expand their reach.

    There is civil unrest and low-level armed militancy in parts of Southern Nigeria, especially in the Niger Delta region.  Armed criminality, including kidnapping and maritime crime, is also pervasive in this region.

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

    There is frequent maritime crime in the Gulf of Guinea.

    The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Nigeria due to security conditions.

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

      If you decide to travel to Nigeria:

    • Carry proper identification, including a U.S. passport with a current Nigerian visa, if needed.
    • Use caution when walking or driving at night.
    • Keep a low profile.
    • Review travel routes and times to vary your predictability.
    • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
    • Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
    • Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
    • Be aware of your surroundings.
    • Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
    • Avoid demonstrations and large political gatherings.
    • Review your personal security plans.
    • Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
    • 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 (and to rule out a hoax).
    • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
    • Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
    • Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
    • Review the Country Security Report for Nigeria.
    • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
    • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
    • Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel, and read the Embassy COVID-19 page for country-specific COVID-19 information. 

    Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and Northern Adamawa states – Level 4: Do Not Travel

    The security situation in these states is fluid and unpredictable due to widespread terrorist activity, inter-communal violence, and kidnapping.  Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning.

    Terrorist groups based in the Northeast routinely target humanitarian camps, security forces, churches, schools, mosques, government installations, educational institutions, entertainment venues, and road travelers.  Approximately two million Nigerians have been displaced as a result of the violence in Northeast Nigeria.

    Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

    Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, and Zamfara states – Level 4: Do Not Travel

    The security situation in these states is fluid and unpredictable due to widespread inter-communal violence and armed criminality, especially kidnapping and roadside banditry.  Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning.

    Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

    Coastal areas of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, and Rivers states (with the exception of Port Harcourt) – Level 4: Do Not Travel

    Crime is rampant throughout Southern Nigeria, and there is a heightened risk of kidnapping and maritime crime, especially in the Gulf of Guinea.  Violent civil unrest and armed militancy persist in these areas.

    Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

  • Thu, 19 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000: Palau - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions - travel.state.gov: Travel Advisories

    Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

    Exercise normal precautions in Palau. 

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

    If you decide to travel to Palau: