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Saudi Arabia
Mar 13, 2026
Saudi Arabia - Level 3: Reconsider Travel
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia due to risk of Iranian drone and missile targeting of American interests, armed conflict, terrorism, exit bans, and local laws regarding social media activity. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not Travel to the Yemen border due to threat of Terrorism. Advisory summary On March 8, 2026, the Department of State ordered non-emergency U.S. government employees and U.S. government employee family members to leave Saudi Arabia due to safety risks. This amends the prior on March 3, 2026, Department of State authorization order for non-emergency U.S. government employees and U.S. government employee family members to leave Saudi Arabia due to safety risks. U.S. Citizens should complete the Crisis Intake Form to let the U.S. Embassy or consulate know they are requesting assistance. Do not submit this form more than once. The form is available at the following link: Armed conflict Following the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, there has been an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks from Iran. Commercial flights are operational from Saudi Arabia though have been significantly disrupted. The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to U.S. citizens in Saudi Arabia due to the safety risks. U.S. government employee travel restrictions near Yemen U.S. government employees working in Saudi Arabia are not allowed to travel within 20 miles of the Yemen border due to safety risks. U.S. government employees are not allowed to travel to Qatif for non-official travel due to safety risks. The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Yemen border region due to the safety risks. U.S. citizens in Saudi Arabia are advised to take the same precautions. Terrorism There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks in Saudi Arabia. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more. Terrorism is a concern in Saudi Arabia. Attacks can occur with little or no warning, especially around holidays. They can involve knives, firearms, and vehicles. Potential targets include: Important political, cultural, or religious locations Places visited by U.S. citizens and other foreigners Tourist locations and large gatherings Hotels, and locations where American citizens gather Transportation hubs Markets and shopping malls Entertainment venues Government facilities Terrorists may use violence to respond to direct attacks against them or other military operations in the region. Missile and drone attacks from Iran and threats from Houthis in Yemen. Iran has launched missile and drone attacks into Saudi Arabia. Attacks have targeted cities, infrastructure, airports, military bases, diplomatic, and energy facilities throughout the country. Iran-backed Houthi rebels have threatened to attack Saudi Arabia again. Falling debris from intercepted drones and missiles are also a risk. U.S. citizens living and working near energy infrastructure and military bases may be at increased risk, especially closer to the Yemen border. Exercise increased caution due to exit bans U.S. citizens have been prevented from leaving Saudi Arabia. Exit bans may be related to pending criminal and civil investigations and cases, including, but not limited to unpaid visa overstay fees, domestic family disputes, and other financial and labor disagreements. Exit bans prevent individuals from leaving the country. These can last for many years. In some cases, exit bans can continue even after a criminal sentence has been fully served or a private suit is settled. Exercise increased caution due to local laws Saudi authorities may detain you if they consider your social media posts or other online activity to be critical, offensive, or disruptive to the public order. U.S. citizens have been arrested for past social media activity, including comments posted while outside of Saudi Arabia. This may include posting, re-posting, or liking comments critical of the Saudi government or its leaders and policies. This also may apply to comments about public life or religion in Saudi Arabia. Local laws against cybercrime and terrorism may be used to prosecute cases related to social media use. Punishment for social media activity has included prison sentences of up to 45 years. Local authorities may not take into account when, where, or in what context posts are made. You are subject to local laws when traveling in Saudi Arabia. If you break laws in Saudi Arabia – even by mistake – you could be deported, fined, imprisoned, or subject to an exit ban. Some U.S. citizens have been detained for several months or even years without charges. Aviation safety The Federal Aviation Administration FAA has issued a Notice to Airmen NOTAM or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation SFAR. This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Saudi Arabia. Consult the Federal Aviation Administration for the most up to date information on current FAA warnings. Risks in specific areas Level: 4 – Do not travel The Yemen border region Do Not Travel to the Yemen border due to threat of Terrorism. Armed groups in Yemen have attacked Saudi border towns and other sites in Saudi Arabia with armed drones, missiles, and rockets. People near the border with Yemen are at increased risk. U.S. government employees working in Saudi Arabia are not allowed to travel within 20 miles of the Yemen border due to safety risks. Terrorist groups continue to plan possible attacks in Saudi Arabia, including Qatif. U.S. government employees working in Saudi Arabia are not allowed to travel to Qatif for non-essential travel due to safety risks. U.S. government employees working in Saudi Arabia need special authorization to travel to Qatif due to safety risks. The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas due to safety risks. U.S. citizens in Saudi Arabia are advised to take the same precautions. For U.S. citizens in Saudi Arabia: 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. Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans. Many prescription medications need prior approval before bringing into or taking out of Saudi Arabia. Before you travel, register any listed prescriptions at the Controlled Drug System CDS website. This approval process may take several weeks. Review our information on Terrorism and travel to High-Risk Areas. Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis Response and Evacuations. Keep travel documents up to date and easy to access. Stay aware of your surroundings. Stay alert in large crowds or tourist spots. Avoid public displays of affection, particularly between same-sex couples. Visit Saudi Arabia’s website for information about public decency regulations. Do not carry, produce, use, or distribute illegal drugs in Saudi Arabia. Review local laws and conditions before traveling, including our Saudi Arabia country information on arrests. Review our information for Gay and Lesbian travelers. Before you travel, delete any sensitive photos, comments, or past content that might be seen as controversial or inappropriate in Saudi Arabia. Do not post, share, or like such content while in Saudi Arabia. Do this for your social media accounts, cameras, laptops, phones, and other accounts and devices. Visit our page regarding Arrest or Detention Abroad for more information on what happens when you or a loved one are arrested abroad. Review the Country Security Report for Saudi Arabia. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information for Saudi Arabia. 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 Checklist.
Finland
Mar 13, 2026
Finland - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise normal precautions in Finland. If you decide to travel to Finland: 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 Finland. Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues. Follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC website for the latest Travel Health Information for Finland. Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the 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. Review the country information page for additional information on travel to Finland.
Azerbaijan
Mar 12, 2026
Azerbaijan - Level 3: Reconsider Travel
The advisory level was increased to 3. There were no changes to the risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Reconsider Travel to Azerbaijan due to terrorism, armed conflict, and risk of landmines. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do not travel to: The southern border region due to risk of armed conflict unless this is your best overland exit from Iran. The border with Armenia due to risk of landmines. The former Soviet-era Nagorno Karabakh Autonomous Oblast and surrounding territories due to landmines. Advisory Summary Armed Conflict Following the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, there has been an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks from Iran and a March 5 drone strike on Nakhchivan International Airport. Commercial flights have also been seriously disrupted. Terrorism There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Azerbaijan. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more. Terrorist groups continue to plan attacks and are a risk in Azerbaijan. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. They may target: Tourist locations Transportation centers airports Markets and shopping malls Local government buildings Hotels, clubs and restaurants Places of worship Parks Major sporting and cultural events Educational institutionsOther public areas Risks in specific areas Level 4 – Do not travel Border with Iran Do not travel to the southern border region due to risk of armed conflict unless this is your best overland exit from Iran. Following the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, there has been an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks from Iran. U.S. citizens should avoid the southern border area unless this is your best overland exit from Iran. Border with Armenia Do not Travel to the border with Armenia due to the risk of landmines Landmines and unexploded ordnance exist throughout this region. Many of them are not marked, so it can be hard to know where they are. Exercise a high degree of caution on roads near the Azerbaijan-Armenia border: Be aware that some portions of the road may cross international boundaries without notice. Roads may be controlled by checkpoints or closed to travelers without notice. The U.S. government is unable to provide immediate emergency assistance to U.S. citizens because U.S. government employees working in Azerbaijan are prohibited from non-official travel to the border region. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Do not travel to the former Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Oblast and surrounding territories due to landmines. Following armed hostilities in 2023, the former Soviet-era Nagorno Karabakh Autonomous Oblast and surrounding territories are under the control of Azerbaijan. Despite the cessation of fighting, the dangers posed by landmine contamination continue. Landmines and unexploded ordnance exist throughout this region. Many of them are not marked, so it can be hard to know where they are. The U.S. government is unable to provide immediate emergency services to U.S. citizens in the former Soviet-era Nagorno Karabakh Autonomous Oblast and surrounding territories because U.S. government employees need approval to travel there. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. If you decide to travel to Azerbaijan: 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 Azerbaijan. 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. Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States. We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
Guatemala
Mar 12, 2026
Guatemala - Level 3: Reconsider Travel
There was no change to the advisory level. The “terrorism” risk indicator was added. Advisory summary was updated. Reconsider travel to Guatemala due to crime and terrorism. Some areas have higher risks. Please read the full Travel Advisory. Do not travel to: San Marcos Department due to crime and terrorism by cartels, gangs, and criminal organizations. Huehuetenango Department due to crime and terrorism by cartels, gangs, and criminal organizations. Zone 18 in Guatemala City and the city of Villa Nueva due to crime and terrorism by cartels, gangs, and criminal organizations. Advisory summary Some areas of Guatemala have higher levels of gang-related violence. Crimes include robbery, carjacking, drug trafficking, assaults, and murders. Local law enforcement often struggles to address serious crimes. This leads to low arrest and conviction rates. Tourists can become victims of opportunistic crimes such as scams and extortion. There is risk of terrorist attacks and other terrorist activities from cartels, gangs, and criminal organizations in San Marcos Department, Huehuetenango Department, Zone 18 in Guatemala City, and the city of Villa Nueva. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s Country Reports on Terrorism to learn more. Tourist Assistance Program Guatemala offers the Tourist Assistance Program ASISTUR to protect tourists. ASISTUR partners with tourist police DISETUR in popular areas like Antigua, Lake Atitlán, Tikal, Quetzaltenango, Puerto Barrios, and Coban. Dial 1500 or +502-2290-2810 anytime from a Guatemalan phone number. You can also message them on WhatsApp at +502-5188-1819. Their emergency call center operates in Spanish and English. You can request a security escort if your group feels unsafe. U.S. government employee travel restrictions U.S. government employees and their families are not permitted to travel to the San Marcos Department, Huehuetenango Department, Zone 18 in Guatemala City, and Villa Nueva due to safety risks. U. S. government employees can travel to other parts of Guatemala and visit popular destinations like Tikal, Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and the Pacific coast areas in Santa Rosa and Escuintla. However, U.S. government employees should avoid driving outside Guatemala City at night. This is due to poor lighting and safety risks. Outside of Zone 18 and Villa Nueva, U.S. government employees and their families can travel throughout Guatemala City, including at night. U.S. government employees may not use white taxis or public transportation, like “chicken buses.” This is due to the high chance of crime and injury. Visit the U.S. embassy in Guatemala City’s website. You will find local resources, like legal help and medical services. You will also find information on residence and work permits, and driver’s licenses. It also covers rules about bringing weapons into Guatemala. Risks in specific areas San Marcos Department - Level 4: Do Not Travel Do Not Travel to San Marcos Department due to risk of crime and terrorism. U.S. government employees and their families cannot go to the San Marcos Department for personal travel. Do not travel to San Marcos Department for any reason. There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs, and criminal organizations. Some towns do not have enough police. Local officers may not have the resources to handle serious crimes. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Huehuetenango Department - Level 4: Do Not Travel Do Not Travel to Huehuetenango Department due to risk of crime and terrorism. U.S. government employees and their families cannot go to Huehuetenango Department for personal travel. Do not travel to Huehuetenango Department for any reason. There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs, and criminal organizations. Some towns do not have enough police. Local officers may not have the resources to handle serious crimes. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Zone 18 in Guatemala City and the city of Villa Nueva - Level 4: Do Not Travel Do Not Travel to Zone 18 in Guatemala City and the city of Villa Nueva due to risk of crime and terrorism. U.S. government employees and their families are not allowed to travel to or through Zone 18 in Guatemala City and the city of Villa Nueva. This is due to the risk of violence from terrorist groups, gangs, and criminal organizations. Do not travel to Zone 18 in Guatemala City and the city of Villa Nueva for any reason. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. If you decide to travel to Guatemala: 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 our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime. Review our information on Terrorism and Travel to High-Risk Areas. Never leave drinks unattended in bars and restaurants. Decline invitations from strangers to private parties. Consider staying in hotels that have secure parking, doormen, and professional security staff. Use trusted taxi services like Taxis Amarillo Express, Taxi Seguro, or Uber. Only use INGUAT-approved taxis from the “SAFE” stand at the airport, hotel taxis, or vetted private drivers. Avoid public transport and white taxis, as well as “chicken buses.” Do not hike trails or volcanoes without a qualified local guide. Robberies can happen and getting help can be difficult. Avoid using public ATMs. Do not show signs of wealth like expensive watches or jewelry. Try not to use your phone in public. Drivers and motorcycles often do not stop for crosswalks, streetlights, or stop signs. Make sure vehicles come to a complete stop before crossing. Review the Country Security Report for Guatemala. Review the Traveler’s Checklist and make a plan for emergencies. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC website for the latest Travel Health Information for Guatemala. Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the 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.
Belize
Mar 12, 2026
Belize - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise increased caution in Belize due to crime. Some areas have increased risk. Please read the entire Travel Advisory. Crime Isolated incidents of violent crime can happen even during the day and in tourist areas, though the south side of Belize City has historically had the highest concentration of violent crime. Crimes include sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. Much of this violence is linked to gangs. Local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious crimes. Most crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted. Emergency medical services are usually unavailable or significantly delayed. Serious injuries or illnesses normally require medical evacuation to another country. Due to security risks, U.S. citizens should follow the same guidance as government employees while traveling. U.S. government employees are strongly discouraged from: Traveling to the south side of Belize City from the Haulover Creek Canal to Fabers Road. Driving between cities in Belize after dark. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Belize. Risks in specific areas Southside Belize City - Level 3: Reconsider travel Reconsider travel to Southside Belize City due to crime. Violent crime in Belize City mostly happens in the south side of the city. It is often connected to gang activity. U.S. government employees are strongly discouraged from travel to the south side of Belize City from the Haulover Creek Canal continuing south to Fabers Road due to the danger of crime. If you decide to travel to Belize: 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 Belize. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. We highly recommend you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. Stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking or driving at night. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs. Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
Kuwait
Mar 09, 2026
Kuwait - Level 3: Reconsider Travel
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. embassy operations. Reconsider Travel to Kuwait due to the threat of armed conflict, landmines, and crime. Advisory summary On March 5, 2026, the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait suspended operations including routine consular services. U.S. citizens in Kuwait should contact the State Department at +1-202-501-4444 or +1-888-407-4747 for emergency assistance or services. The Crisis Intake Form – below – is the preferred vehicle for departure assistance requests. The Embassy remains on ordered departure status since March 2, 2026. U.S. citizens in Kuwait wanting to depart should complete the Crisis Intake Form once to let the U.S. Department of State know they are requesting help. Only one submission is necessary. You can reply to the most recent email from our crisis case management system to update your case with your current plans and location so that we can send you the best departure information for your location. That link is Armed conflict Following the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, there has been an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks from Iran. Commercial flights have also been seriously disrupted. Aviation safety The Federal Aviation Administration FAA has issued a Notice to Airmen NOTAM or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation SFAR. This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Kuwait. Consult the Federal Aviation Administration for the most up to date information on current FAA warnings. Crime Exercise increased caution in the Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh area in Kuwait City because of crime. The Kuwaiti police report that the neighborhood of Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh near the Kuwait International Airport is a high-crime area. Landmines Landmines and unexploded ordnance exist in the desert area and some beaches north of the Mutla’a Ridge and near the border with Iraq. The locations of landmines and unexploded ordnance are not marked, so it can be hard to know where they are. There may be unexploded bombs, shells, and landmines left over from the 1990 Gulf War. Do not travel to areas that are “off the beaten path.” Do not touch or move objects in those area as they could explode. For U.S. citizens in Kuwait: Visit our website for information on travel to High-Risk Areas. 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. If you need assistance departing Kuwait, please complete the crisis intake form so the Department of State can better assist you and provide you with timely updates. If you have already completed the crisis intake form, please do not fill it out again. Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans. 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. Keep travel documents up to date and easy to access. Review local laws and conditions before traveling. Kuwait has strict laws prohibiting the possession or trafficking of drugs including marijuana and alcohol. Do not bring drugs or alcohol in your luggage and do not attempt to purchase them in Kuwait. Be aware of your surroundings. Stay alert especially in places visited by large groups of people and travelers or tourists. Review the Country Security Report for Kuwait. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC website for the latest Travel Health Information before you travel. 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. Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
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