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Official advisories
Recent travel guidance
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Mongolia
Jul 29, 2026
Mongolia - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise normal precautions in Mongolia. Advisory summary Mongolia is generally a safe destination for travelers. Review our travel guidance for Mongolia to learn how to prepare for a safe trip. If you decide to travel to Mongolia: 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 Mongolia. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States. Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the Checklist. We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel, especially if you plan on engaging in outdoor activities. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
Laos
Jul 28, 2026
Laos - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary updated. Exercise increased caution in Laos due to crime, unrest, and unexploded ordnances. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Increased Risk Areas: Reconsider Travel to Xaisomboun Province due to civil unrest Exercise Increased Caution in areas on the Border with Burma, Savannakhet, Xieng Khouang, Salavan, Khammouane, Sekong, Champasak, Houaphanh, Attapeu, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane provinces, along Route 7 from Route 13 to the Vietnam border, Route 9 Savannakhet to the Vietnam border, and Route 20 Pakse to Salavan due to crime. Exercise Increased Caution in areas of Savannakhet, Xieng Khouang, Salavan, Khammouane, Sekong, Champasak, Houaphanh, Attapeu, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane provinces, as well as along Route 7 due to unexploded ordnances. Advisory summary: Review our Travel Guidance for Laos to learn how to prepare for a safe trip. Avoid Special Economic Zones SEZs, especially the Bokeo SEZ also known as the Golden Triangle SEZ and Boten SEZ. Scam centers and transnational criminal organizations that operate within these zones increase the risk of crime. Specific areas of risks: Reconsider Travel to Xaisomboun Province due to civil unrest. There is a continued threat of violence in Xaisomboun Province. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Xaisomboun Province. U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to Xaisomboun Province. Exercise Increased Caution in areas on the Border with Burma, Savannakhet, Xieng Khouang, Salavan, Khammouane, Sekong, Champasak, Houaphanh, Attapeu, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane provinces, along Route 7 from Route 13 to the Vietnam border, Route 9 Savannakhet to the Vietnam border, and Route 20 Pakse to Salavan due to crime. Avoid remote areas along the border with Burma due to crime. Bandits, drug traffickers, and other people involved in illegal activities operate in these areas, along with armed groups that are against the Burmese government. Exercise Increased Caution in areas of Savannakhet, Xieng Khouang, Salavan, Khammouane, Sekong, Champasak, Houaphanh, Attapeu, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane provinces, as well as along Route 7 due to unexploded ordnances. There are large numbers of unexploded ordnance remaining from the Indochina War in these areas: Savannakhet, Xieng Khouang, Salavan, Khammouane, Sekong, Champasak, Houaphanh, Attapeu, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane provinces. Along Route 7 from Route 13 to the Vietnam border, Route 9 Savannakhet to the Vietnam border, and Route 20 Pakse to Salavan. Avoid Special Economic Zones SEZs, especially the Bokeo SEZ also known as the Golden Triangle SEZ and Boten SEZ. Scam centers and transnational criminal organizations that operate within these zones increase the risk of crime. If you decide to travel to Laos: 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 Laos. Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime. Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC website for the latest Travel Health Information for New Caledonia. 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.
Bahamas
Jul 28, 2026
The Bahamas - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
There are no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to crime. Advisory summary Crime Violent crime, including armed robberies, burglaries, and sexual assaults, can occur anywhere in The Bahamas. Most crime occurs in Nassau and Freeport on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands. Stay alert in the “Over the Hill” area in Nassau, south of Shirley Street, where gangs have killed residents. Stay alert in vacation rental properties, especially where private security is not present. Jet skis, boating, and licenses Boating is not well regulated. Injuries and deaths have occurred. There have been reports of sexual assaults by jet ski operators. Due to safety risks, U.S. government employees are not allowed to use or rent jet skis and personal watercraft from independent operators on New Providence and Paradise Islands. Watercraft may not be safe, and some operators are not licensed or insured. Watercraft operators sometimes ignore weather forecasts. Always follow local weather and marine alerts. Do not operate a fishing boat or other charter in Bahamian waters without a license from The Bahamas Port Department. Police have detained American boaters and seized their vessels. Penalties include a fine of up to $100,000 and 3 years in prison. Beach safety Never swim alone and beware of jet skis or other watercraft operating close to shore. Sexual assaults have occurred on and near downtown Nassau beaches. Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert in public restrooms. Be aware of your own fitness and swimming capabilities. If you are new to snorkeling, understand the risks. Swimmers and snorkelers have died after overestimating their physical fitness or health. Stay alert for sharks. Shark attacks have led to serious injury and death. Be aware of weather and water conditions and follow local warnings. Weapons and ammunition Firearms and ammunition are illegal, including small quantities in carry-on bags or luggage. Police strictly enforce these laws, even at the airport when travelers are leaving. Travelers with firearms or ammunition can face arrest, jail time, and fines. Authorities have detained U.S. citizens for several days or more after finding firearms or ammunition, preventing them from leaving. Hurricanes The Bahamas regularly experiences hurricanes. Review our information on Weather and Natural Disasters in The Bahamas. Review our Travel Guidance for The Bahamas to learn how to prepare for a safe trip. If you decide to travel to The Bahamas: 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 the Country Security Report for The Bahamas. Do not answer your door at your hotel or residence unless you know who it is. Lock doors and windows and use other security features, especially on balcony doors. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Visit The Bahamas Port Department’s website if you plan to operate a charter or sail in Bahamian waters. Always check your personal belongings. Officials have detained travelers entering and exiting the country for carrying guns, ammunition, or other prohibited items. You must follow local laws abroad. If you break laws in The Bahamas – even by mistake – you could face deportation, fines, or imprisonment. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC website for the latest Travel Health Information for The Bahamas. 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.
Uruguay
Jul 28, 2026
Uruguay - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise increased caution in Uruguay due to crime. Advisory summary Crime is most common in these departments: Montevideo Canelones Maldonado Rivera Violent crime occurs across the country. Crimes include homicide, armed robbery, carjacking and theft. These crimes can happen at any time and have affected U.S. citizens. Criminals often travel in pairs on motorcycles. They may approach victims with a weapon and demand personal belongings. Armed criminals also target grocery stores, restaurants, financial centers, and small businesses. Sometimes innocent bystanders become victims. Review our Travel Guidance for Uruguay to learn how to prepare for a safe trip. If you decide to travel to Uruguay: 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 Uruguay. Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime. Be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling to tourist locations or poorly lit areas. Call 911 if you encounter a crime in progress. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt or try to stop a robbery in progress. Be vigilant when visiting banks or using ATMs during non-daylight hours or in remote locations; criminals often target ATMs and businesses in the early morning hours. Do not leave valuable objects in parked vehicles or in plain sight when driving. Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive jewelry or watches. Review your personal and residential security plans. Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the Checklist. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC website for the latest Travel Health Information for Uruguay. We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
Kenya
Jul 28, 2026
Kenya - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
There was no change to the advisory level. The “other” risk indicator was added. Advisory summary was updated. Increased Risk Areas: Do Not Travel to the Nairobi neighborhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera due to risk of crime and kidnapping. Do Not Travel to the counties of Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Lamu, Tana River except Tsavo National Park, Kilifi north of highway C103, and coastal areas north of Malindi, due to risk of kidnapping and terrorism. Do Not Travel to West Pokot County and western Turkana County due to risk of crime. Do Not Travel to Marsabit and Turkana Counties within 30 miles 50 kilometers of the border with Ethiopia due to risk of unrest. Advisory Summary: Crime Violent crime can occur at any time. Violent crimes include armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, sexual assault, and kidnapping for ransom. Petty crime is common. Criminal fraud targeting Americans is a concern. Local police often are unable to respond effectively to crimes. Crimes like robbery are common. They are often committed by individuals riding motorcycles. Solo travelers in particular should exercise caution. Some Americans have been victims of sexual assault in bars and resorts/hotels. Petty crimes often occur in crowded areas or when people are distracted. Schemes to defraud investors are common. Americans often fall victim to schemes involving transactions in gold and other high-value commodities. Kenyan authorities are unlikely to assist Americans in recovering losses. Property disputes are common in Kenya. Americans who have bought land, churches, and businesses have lost their investments or been pushed off the property by locals who claim the land or business. Kidnapping Terrorists, criminal gangs, and other armed groups kidnap for ransom. Local law enforcement officials are not equipped or trained to handle the threat of kidnapping. Terrorism There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more. Terrorists plot kidnappings, bombings, grenade attacks, armed assaults, suicide attacks, and other action in Kenya. Terrorists attack without warning. They have targeted: Kenyan and foreign government buildings tourist locations transportation hubs hotels and resorts markets and shopping malls places of worship Unrest Cross-border incursions occur along the border with Ethiopia. Demonstrations, strikes, and other political and economic protests are common. They can turn violent. Protests often block key intersections and highways, resulting in widespread traffic jams. Protestors have also attacked vehicles containing Americans, including motorcycle taxis and safari vehicles. Violence during protests has occurred across Kenya. This includes rock-throwing by protesters and use of deadly force by police. Violent protests are most common in Nairobi and in western Kenya. Health Medical services in Kenya are limited. They are often unavailable in rural areas. Medical facilities in Kenya often lack sufficient medicine and equipment. Except for a few private medical facilities based in the large urban centers with enhanced capability, many health issues may require medical evacuation at your expense. Medical facilities will usually deny service if payment is not made upfront. Some schools, substance abuse centers, and other facilities claim to rehabilitate people, but operate with little or no government supervision. Physical and emotional abuse is common in these places. Residents, including Americans, have been held in these facilities against their will. Americans or residents who lure individuals to Kenya under false pretenses or forcibly place Americans into such rehabilitation facilities may be subject to legal repercussions in the United States. Traffic safety Automobile accidents are one of the main causes of injury and death of Americans in Kenya. Major highways between Nairobi and Nakuru and Nairobi and Mombasa are only two lanes, and drivers frequently pass with little attention to oncoming traffic. Tourists, who may not always use seatbelts, have also been seriously injured or killed in safari vehicle accident. Risks in specific areas: Level 4 – Do Not Travel Nairobi neighborhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera Do Not Travel to the Nairobi neighborhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera due to risk of crime and kidnapping. Violent crime, including armed carjacking and kidnapping for ransom, may occur in these neighborhoods. Level 4 – Do Not Travel Counties of Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Lamu, Tana River except Tsavo National Park, Kilifi north of highway C103, and coastal areas north of Malindi Do Not Travel to the counties of Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Lamu, Tana River except Tsavo National Park, Kilifi north of highway C103 and coastal areas north of Malindi, due to risk of kidnapping and terrorism. Al-Shabaab is active in these areas. There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity. Terrorists, criminal gangs, and other armed groups kidnap for ransom. Level 4 – Do Not Travel West Pokot County and western Turkana County Do Not Travel to West Pokot County and western Turkana County due to risk of crime. Armed bandits are active in these areas. Violent crime can occur at any time. Local police often are unable to respond effectively to crimes. Level 4 – Do Not Travel Marsabit and Turkana Counties within 30 miles 50 kilometers of the border with Ethiopia Do Not Travel to Marsabit and Turkana Counties within 30 miles 50 kilometers of the border with Ethiopia due to risk of unrest. These areas are prone to cross-border incursions from Ethiopia. Violence and armed conflict may occur at any time. If you decide to travel to Kenya: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program STEP to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. government. Enrolling helps the U.S. government contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency. Review the Country Security Report for Kenya. Review our information Terrorism and Travel to High-Risk Areas. Review our information on 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. Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans. Stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Keep a low profile. Stay alert in tourist spots. Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible. Develop a communication plan with family, your employer, or host organization. List how and when you'll confirm you're safe text or call. Specify how often you’ll do this. Prepare a will. Designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or draft a power of attorney. 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. 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. Make sure your insurance includes medical evacuation coverage. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC website for the latest Travel Health Information for Kenya. 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.
Belgium
Jul 23, 2026
Belgium - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
There was no change to the advisory level. The "crime” and “unrest” risk indicators were added. Advisory summary was updated. Advisory summary Exercise increased caution in Belgium due to crime, terrorism, and unrest. Crime Petty crime is common, especially in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings. Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing. Terrorism There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Belgium. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more. Unrest Large-scale, generally peaceful demonstrations related to the local political situation may occur. Demonstrations may disrupt transportation and other essential services. Review our Travel Guidance for Belgium to learn how to prepare for a safe trip. If you decide to travel to Belgium: 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 Belgium. Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime. Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans. Stay aware of your surroundings. Stay alert in tourist spots. Stay alert when visiting banks or ATMs. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC website for the latest Travel Health Information for Belgium. Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the Checklist.
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