travel warning to usa from australia

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COVID-19 international travel advisories

If you plan to visit the U.S., you do not need to be tested or vaccinated for COVID-19. U.S. citizens going abroad, check with the Department of State for travel advisories.

COVID-19 testing and vaccine rules for entering the U.S.

• As of May 12, 2023, noncitizen nonimmigrant visitors to the U.S.  arriving by air  or  arriving by land or sea  no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19. 
• As of June 12, 2022,  people entering the U.S. no longer need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test . 

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Travelling to the US from Australia: Everything you need to know

If  'Murca' is on the horizon and you haven't been since Covid, there are a few changes you best be aware of.

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If  'Murca' is on the horizon and you haven't been since Covid, there are a few changes you best be aware of.

Do you need a Covid test for the USA?

No but you must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 if you're 18 and over and provide proof of vaccination to travel to the US. 

Is the USA safe?

Not as safe as Australia. Give areas where demonstrations and protests are taking place a wide berth. Watch your valuables on public transport and, as much as this pains us to write, ask your hotel about active shooter protocols and familiarise yourself with how to respond by reading the US Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Active Shooter Event guide . 

Do I need travel insurance to go to the USA?

Definitively YES: comprehensive medical insurance. Few countries have higher medical bills for the uninsured and even the simplest medical treatment can end up costing thousands and more.

Is marijuana legal in the USA?

Only 19 states have legalised it and you need to be extremely careful in those that haven’t as strict penalties apply for even small possession. We’re talking mandatory minimum sentences in some cases.

What medications can I take to the USA?

Some prescription and over-the-counter medications readily available in Australia are illegal in the US. It's also illegal to possess prescription medication without a prescription. To be safe, get a note from your doctor detailing what  meds you are taking, the dosage and frequency of use.

What is the legal drinking age in the US?

The federal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 21. However, state laws regarding possession and consumption can vary. Many young Aussie travellers have been caught out in this regard.

How do you travel to the USA from Australia if you’re a dual citizen?

While dual citizenship is recognised, it’s important to travel with both passports.

Do you need a visa to travel to the US from Australia on holiday?

If you’re going for less than 90 days, you can apply online for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) and be able to enter under the Visa Waiver Program. If you're not eligible, you'll need a visa. Each traveller, including children, must have their own ESTA and visa waiver or visa. ESTA visas last two years.

Can I drive with an Australian licence in the US?

There are some states where you can get away with but you will get getting away with it. To save any hassle, get an International Driving Permit before you leave. You can get it through the NRMA and it costs $42.

What can they ask at US customs?

According to SmartTraveller , “officials may ask to inspect your electronic devices , emails, text messages or social media accounts.” They may also ask to see proof that you have enough money to cover your stay or an onward ticket that doesn't terminate in Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean unless you're a resident of one of those countries.

Can you go to the US unvaccinated?

Technically yes, but it’s a mission. If you're not fully vaccinated but qualify for an exception, you may be required to attest that: You'll be tested with a COVID-19 viral test 3 to 5 days after arrival in the US unless you have documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 in the past 90 days; you'll self-quarantine for a full 7 days, even if the test result of the post-arrival viral test is negative, unless you have documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 in the past 90 days; and you'll self-isolate if the result of the post-arrival test is positive or if you develop COVID-19 symptoms. 

Wait, there’s more. If you're not fully vaccinated and intend to stay in the US for longer than 60 days, you may also be required to attest that: you agree to be vaccinated against COVID-19; and you have arranged to become fully vaccinated against COVID-19 within 60 days of arriving in the US or as soon thereafter as is medically appropriate.

Do children need to be vaccinated to enter the US?

Children under the age of 18 are excepted from the vaccination requirement .

How long does it take to fly to the US?

A flight from the east coast of Australia to the west coast of the US takes around 14 to 16 hours. Bear in mind that you will arrive on the morning of the day you left!

How much do you tip in the US?

Fifteen per cent if it was average and 20 as a rule if your server helped you enjoy the meal/tour/service.

Before you leave, be sure to check out the latest travel information at Smart Traveller .

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David divides his time between travelling and stand up comedy. His favourite destinations encompass both and he has performed in London, New York and Las Vegas. Sometimes even on stage. He chafes in polyester, can handle no more than two martinis and his safe word is degustation.

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US Embassy in Canberra advises American citizens to ‘remain vigilant’ after Bondi massacre

The US Embassy in Canberra has warned its citizens that ‘dangerous events’ can occur in unexpected areas following the horrific Bondi massacre.

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The US Embassy in Canberra has issued a stark new warning to its own citizens after Saturday’s horrific Bondi massacre, urging Americans to “remain vigilant” while in Australia.

The message, broadcast on Monday, warns Americans that “dangerous events” can occur in the “most unexpected of areas”.

“In the aftermath of the horrific incident at Bondi Junction this weekend, the US Mission to Australia would like to remind US citizens to remain vigilant, be aware of your surroundings and practice sound personal security and situational awareness,” the message read.

“As this incident showed, dangerous events can occur in the most unexpected of areas.

“Visitors to congested and popular tourist areas should pay particular attention to their surroundings and always follow the instructions of police and emergency response officials.”

The statement recommends Americans “avoid demonstrations”, be aware of their surroundings, review their personal security plans and “stay alert”.

But despite the new warning, the US State Department, America’s version of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, continues to classify Australia as a “level one” travel destination, advising Americans to “exercise normal safety precautions” in the country.

America’s diplomatic mission is centred in Canberra, with consulates in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth.

Caroline Kennedy, the daughter of former US President John F Kennedy, is the American ambassador to Australia.

In a post to X, formerly known as Twitter, Ambassador Kennedy expressed her heartbreak at the shocking Bondi Westfield knife rampage that left six innocent people dead.

We are deeply saddened to hear of the events at Westfield Bondi Junction in Sydney today. Our hearts go out to the families and friends of those who were lost, and wish the injured a speedy and complete recovery. —Ambassador Kennedy — U.S. Embassy Australia (@USEmbAustralia) April 13, 2024

“We are deeply saddened to hear of the events at Westfield Bondi Junction in Sydney today,” she said on Saturday.

“Our hearts go out to the families and friends of those who were lost and wish the injured a speedy and complete recovery.”

Mass murder events are rare in Australia and Saturday’s violence has thrown the country into grief and shock.

The Bondi violence was then followed by an alleged terror attack at a church in western Sydney, where a 16-year-old boy allegedly attacked Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel during a livestreamed sermon.

Video of the gruesome violence spread quickly across social media.

No charges have been laid over the church incident.

Aussies planning on visiting a major European city will have to pay a fee or cop a hefty fine of up to $450 in a move that’s sparked outrage.

A photo of three young men standing on a rock in the Queensland bush has sparked furious controversy online.

Travellers are being warned to expect major disruptions at French airports, with an anticipated strike threatening to cause chaos.

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Yes, other countries have issued travel advisories for the U.S.

In response to recent concerns about safety when traveling to Mexico, VERIFY answered questions about crime and safety in the country. 

We found that the U.S. Department of State has issued travel advisories ranging from level 2, exercise increased caution, to level 4, do not travel, for most states in Mexico.

This prompted more questions from VERIFY readers about global travel. Several people wanted to know if other countries have issued similar warnings for people traveling to the U.S. 

THE QUESTION

Have other countries issued travel advisories for the United States?

THE SOURCES

• New Zealand government’s SafeTravel website
• Australian government’s smartraveller website
• Government of Canada
• United Kingdom government
• France Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Bolivarian Government of Venezuela
• Uruguay Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Amnesty International

Yes, other countries have issued travel advisories for the United States. 

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WHAT WE FOUND

Countries around the world have different ways of advising their residents about foreign travel. Some have warnings or advisories similar to those issued by the U.S. State Department .

At least one country currently has a heightened travel advisory in place for the United States. Other countries have also warned against travel to the U.S. in past years due to acts of violence and hate crimes. 

While many countries say travelers can take normal safety precautions when visiting the U.S., some provide general warnings about crime.

New Zealand

New Zealand has four levels of travel advisories : exercise normal safety and security precautions; exercise increased caution; avoid non-essential travel; and do not travel.

Its travel advisory for the U.S. falls under level 2 of 4: Exercise increased caution. The country says this designation is “due to the threat of terrorism.” “The United States remains a target of terrorist interest, both from international terror groups and from domestic-based extremists,” New Zealand’s government says. “Credible information assessed by US authorities indicates that individuals or groups have developed both the intent and capability to conduct terrorist attacks in the US. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including places visited by foreigners.”

Canada has four levels of travel advisories : take normal security precautions; exercise a high degree of caution; avoid non-essential travel; and avoid all travel. 

Travelers to the U.S. should take normal security precautions , similar to those that they would in Canada, the country’s government says. 

But Canada’s government does note that “the rate of firearm possession in the U.S. is high” and “it’s legal in many states for U.S. citizens to openly carry firearms in public.”

“Incidences of mass shootings occur, resulting most often in casualties,” Canada’s government says. “Although tourists are rarely involved, there is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Familiarize yourself on how to respond to an active shooter situation.”

The country also warns its residents about the risk of criminal incidents at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Australia also issues travel advice levels ranging from 1 to 4 . The United States falls under the country’s lowest advice level of “exercise normal safety precautions.”

The country’s government does include in its U.S. safety information that “violent crime is more common than in Australia” and “gun crime is also prevalent.”

Australia also warns of a “persistent and heightened threat of terrorist attacks and mass casualty violence in the U.S.,” urging people to stay alert in public places and at events. The United Kingdom

In travel advice published online , the United Kingdom’s government says in part that “violent crime, including gun crime, rarely involves tourists” in the United States.

The country also notes that “incidents of mass shooting can occur, but account for a very small percentage of homicide deaths.” It recommends that people read the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s advice for what to do during an active shooter event . 

France France says the U.S. is “among the safest countries,” but it does warn travelers about some urban areas and an uptick in carjacking incidents throughout the nation.

The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs breaks down potential threats in neighborhoods of major U.S. cities, including Boston, New York, Chicago, Atlanta, New Orleans, San Francisco and Los Angeles, among others. 

For example, the ministry recommends for people in Boston to “avoid traveling alone, on foot and at night, in certain parts of Dorchester, Mattpan and Roxbury.”

People traveling to Los Angeles should avoid certain areas, “including the east, south and southeast neighborhoods such as Watts, Inglewood and Florence,” the ministry says. 

Venezuela and Uruguay issue warnings in 2019

In 2019, two South American countries issued warnings about travel to the United States. 

Venezuela’s government suggested in August 2019 that its citizens postpone trips to the U.S. or take “extreme precautions during them” in the face of the “proliferation of acts of violence and indiscriminate hate crimes.” 

The country published its U.S. travel recommendations after a mass shooting at a Walmart in El Paso, Texas , left 22 people dead, and a gunman killed nine people in Dayton, Ohio .

Uruguay’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also said people traveling to the U.S. should “take extreme precautions in the face of growing indiscriminate violence, mostly due to hate crimes, including racism and discrimination.”

“Given the impossibility of the authorities to prevent these situations, due, among other factors, to the indiscriminate possession of firearms by the population, it is especially advisable to avoid places where there are large concentrations of people, such as theme parks, shopping centers, festivals artistic events, religious activities, gastronomic fairs and any type of mass cultural or sporting events,” Uruguay's ministry said. 

Amnesty International warning

Amnesty International, a non-governmental organization focused on human rights, also issued its own travel advisory for the United States in August 2019 due to “ongoing high levels of gun violence.”

The organization said people worldwide should “exercise caution and have an emergency contingency plan when traveling throughout the USA.”

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These Countries Have Warned Against Travel to The U.S. Learn Why

Travel advisories are a common way for countries to provide guidance to their residents when traveling abroad. Similar to the U.S. State Department, some countries issue warnings or advisories to alert their citizens to potential risks when traveling to certain destinations.

Despite the opinion of some, it’s not always the case that the U.S. is considered a safe destination. While many countries advise taking normal safety precautions when visiting the U.S., others are issuing general warnings about crime. At least one country currently has a heightened travel advisory in place for the United States. Others have warned against travel to America in the past due to incidents of violence and hate crimes.

New Zealand

New Zealand categorizes its travel advisories into four levels, ranging from “exercise normal safety and security precautions” to “do not travel.” The current travel advisory level for the U.S. is 2 out of 4, meaning travelers are advised to exercise increased caution.

New Zealand’s government attributes the rating to the threat of terrorism. The U.S. remains a target of terrorist interest from both international terror groups and domestic-based extremists. Citing credible information assessed by U.S. authorities, New Zealand warns that individuals or groups have developed both the intent and capability to conduct terrorist attacks in the U.S., which could be indiscriminate and affect places visited by foreigners.

The Canadian government advises taking normal security precautions similar to those taken in Canada. However, the government notes the high rate of firearm possession in the U.S. and that it is legal in many states for citizens to openly carry firearms in public.

Incidents of mass shootings occur, which can result in casualties. The government advises tourists to familiarize themselves with how to respond to an active shooter situation. Additionally, Canada warns its residents about the risk of criminal incidents at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Australia’s travel warnings range from 1 to 4, with the U.S. classified under the lowest level of exercising normal safety precautions. Australia does, however, warn its citizens that violent and gun-related crimes are more common in the U.S. than in Australia. Additionally, the country warns of a “persistent and heightened threat of terrorist attacks and mass casualty violence in the U.S.,” and advises people to remain vigilant when in public places or attending events.

United Kingdom

The UK government shares on its website that violent crime, including gun crime, is not a common occurrence involving tourists in the United States. The UK acknowledges that incidents of mass shootings can happen, although they account for a small percentage of homicide deaths. The government recommends that individuals read the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s guidance on how to respond to an active shooter event.

France’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs considers the United States to be among the safest countries. The department does, however, advise travelers about certain urban areas and an increase in carjacking incidents nationwide. The ministry provides a breakdown of potential threats in neighborhoods in major U.S. cities, such as Boston, New York, Chicago, Atlanta, New Orleans, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.

In Boston, the ministry recommends avoiding certain parts of Dorchester, Mattpan, and Roxbury when traveling alone, on foot, and at night. Similarly, travelers to Los Angeles should steer clear of certain areas, including east, south, and southeast neighborhoods like Watts, Inglewood, and Florence.

Venezuela & Uruguay

Two South American countries, Venezuela and Uruguay, issued travel warnings about the United States in 2019. Venezuela recommended that its citizens postpone travel to the U.S. or take extreme precautions due to the “proliferation of acts of violence and indiscriminate hate crimes.”

Meanwhile, Uruguay’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged travelers to take extreme precautions in the face of growing indiscriminate violence, particularly hate crimes, due to the widespread possession of firearms by the U.S. population. It advised avoiding places with large concentrations of people such as theme parks, shopping centers, festivals, artistic events, religious activities, gastronomic fairs, and any type of mass cultural or sporting events. These warnings followed mass shootings in El Paso, Texas, and Dayton, Ohio.

RELATED: Here’s What Other Countries Warn Their Citizens About Before Visiting The US

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Travel advice and subscribing for updates

The Australian Government’s  Smartraveller  website provides a range of information and advice to help you make well-informed travel decisions and stay safe while you’re overseas. 

This includes  travel advice for the United States , and advisories for more than 170 other  destinations  worldwide. 

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Numerous Countries Have Issued Travel Warnings for the United States

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We're not the only ones who issue warnings.

Many seasoned travelers are accustomed to checking the U.S. State Department’s travel warnings prior to traveling abroad. The warnings exist at four levels: Level 1 – Exercise Normal Caution; Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution; Level 3 – Reconsider Travel; and Level 4 – Do Not Travel.

The warnings are specific to U.S. citizens considering travel abroad based on the U.S. government’s assessment of risk for U.S. citizens traveling in that country–although some of the countries rated for increased caution remain among the most popular destinations for American travelers. At press time, much of Western Europe is Rated Level 2, while Mexico is rated state-by-state, and there are Mexican states rated at each of the four levels .

There’s also an assumption inherent in the State Department’s ratings—that remaining within the United States is safer than traveling abroad.

However, as Travel Noire highlighted last week , several other countries have told their citizens that the United States is a destination where increased caution is necessary, primarily citing high crime and firearm violence as top concerns.

The United Kingdom’s Home Office warns Britons that safety concerns in the United States include terrorist attacks, car and street crime, and protests that can turn violent. New Zealand has issued similar warnings for its citizens, and also notes that there is a “higher incidence of violent crime and firearm possession than in New Zealand” but tempers that with “crime rates vary considerably across cities and suburbs and incidents rarely involve tourists.”

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It may be cause for some travelers to wonder whether recent well-publicized incidents of gun violence in the United States have been the cause of the increased cautions, but it’s also worth noting that U.S. gun crime rates have long vastly outnumbered those of other developed economies, so many of those warnings have been in place for some time.

The United Kingdom specifically calls out U.S. incidences of mass shooter events, and even refers U.K. citizens to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s materials on how to respond to an active shooter event.

Travelers may also find value in checking foreign travel advisories as a sort of second opinion, although some country’s governments may be more cautious with warnings. The State Department rates countries such as Uruguay Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution, while New Zealand logs no specific concerns for the country. Conversely, New Zealand advises citizens to exercise increased caution in Vietnam, Greece, and Poland while the U.S. State Department considers those countries Level 1 – Exercise Normal Precautions.

Ireland is notably liberal with travel warnings—normal precautions are currently in place for the United States, although the Irish government specifically warns travelers about an increase in vehicle break-ins in the San Francisco Bay Area. Ireland also rates as “normal precautions” many countries the U.S. has listed as Level 2, including France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Uruguay, and Chile.

The travel advisories issued by other countries can also be a helpful alternative source of information for travelers. New Zealand, for example, reminds its citizens that French law requires travelers and citizens to provide proof of identity (such as a passport) upon request by law enforcement (or, alternatively, at a police station within four hours)–information that’s not mentioned in the State Department consular information sheet for France.

The country fact sheets published by other countries regarding the United States aren’t all doom and gloom, however, and they ought not to be taken personally—they’re simply a compilation of information foreign governments want their citizens to be aware of prior to travel. Many of the sheets offer reminders that laws can vary significantly from state to state—a helpful reminder for travelers from countries with more centralized governments. Other warnings are relatively standard across all destinations—remain vigilant against petty theft, know local traffic laws, and understand your rights as a foreign national in the event of an encounter with law enforcement.

Where it does make sense to refer back to the U.S. Consular Info sheets for reference are for services specific for American citizens, such as the location of U.S. Embassies and Consular offices abroad—places where citizens can access diplomatic services while outside the country.

U.S. Citizens intending travel abroad can sign up for the State Department’s Secure Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to register their visits abroad with the local embassy or consular office so they can be contacted in the event of an emergency (such as the recent evacuations of U.S. citizens from Sudan). The STEP program also allows local embassies to e-mail office information and up-to-date threat assessments to Americans they know to be in the country.

Whether referring to American or foreign consular circulars, it’s important to remember they’re like food warning labels—they’re meant to provide a set standard of safety information to travelers of all experience levels, so some information may not always apply. It’s ultimately best to use personal experience and a variety of different sources when assessing risk during any journey abroad.

These countries have issued travel advisories for their citizens towards the United States

Due to a rise in crime and fatalities, travel advisories are not uncommon. Travel advisories are the most efficient way for officials to provide safety information to their citizens about potential risks when visiting other countries.

Despite the media portrayal and opinions of others, the U.S. is not immune to travelers questioning their safety. Several countries have advised citizens to take standard safety precautions when entering the U.S., but some have increased the level of alarm. Increased hate crimes, violence, sexual assault and other forms of criminality, have countries warning their citizens about travel to the United States.

Travel Noire revealed why New Zealand, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, France, Venezuela and Uruguay encourage their citizens to stay diligent when visiting America.

New Zealand

New Zealand’s current travel advisory level for the U.S. is a 2 out of 4, meaning travelers are advised to exercise increased caution. Travel Noire states that, “New Zealand’s government attributes the rating to the threat of terrorism. The U.S. remains a target of terrorist interest from both international terror groups and domestic-based extremists.” New Zealand warns that individuals or groups may target the U.S. through terroristic acts in areas where tourists frequent.

The Canadian government mentions the high rate of firearm possession in the U.S. and that it is “legal in many states for citizens to openly carry firearms in public.” Due to increased mass shootings, Canada advises tourists to “familiarize themselves with how to respond to an active shooter situation.” Canada’s travel advisories also detail and warn residents about possible criminal incidents at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Australia’s travel warning has the U.S. classified at a level 1, instructing travelers to exercise standard safety precautions. However, like Canada, Australia does warn citizens that violent and gun-related crimes are more common in the U.S. The country also lists the possibility of an impending terrorist attack.

United Kingdom

The U.K. government advises its residents to stay vigilant when traveling to the States. They list possible occurrences of mass shootings and terrorist attacks, but claim those are rare occurrences with tourists. They suggest individuals read the guidance on responding to an active shooter.

The United States is considered one of the safest countries in the world, according to France’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They do point out certain urban cities that pose potential threats, such as carjacking, theft and walking alone at night. “The ministry provides a breakdown of potential threats in neighborhoods in major U.S. cities, such as Boston, New York, Chicago, Atlanta, New Orleans, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.”

Venezuela & Uruguay

South American countries, Venezuela and Uruguay, have had travel warnings issued against the U.S. since 2019. The “proliferation of acts of violence and indiscriminate hate crimes,” was the reason that Venezuela recommended citizens postpone travel to the U.S. Uruguay’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged travelers to take extreme precautions against the same hate crimes and increased firearm violence.

Martie Bowser is a journalist and public relations professional in Charlotte, NC. She enjoys amplifying the voices of POC and women that fill a void within their community. Her bylines include “person of interest” interviews, small business highlights, pop culture commentary, entertainment features, and everything Beyonce.

If you enjoy our perspective on travel and Black culture, please sign up for our newsletter . You should consider joining our travel club , too. Or maybe write a piece for us about your favorite destination. In other words, let’s stay connected!

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This story was originally published April 28, 2023, 2:42 PM.

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Places the U.S. Government Warns Not to Travel Right Now

You may want to reconsider traveling to these countries right now.

Do Not Travel to These Countries

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Crime, civil unrest and terrorism are common risk factors for countries that end up on the State Department's "Do Not Travel" advisory list.

In 2024, tourism across the globe is “well on track” to return to pre-pandemic levels, according to projections by UN Tourism.

Global conflicts and natural disasters , ranging from a series of coups across Africa to catastrophic earthquakes in the Middle East affected international travel patterns throughout 2023. Still, international tourist arrivals reached 87% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023, according to estimates by UN Tourism .

In January 2024 alone, about 4.6 million U.S. citizens left the country for international destinations, 17% higher than the same month in 2019, according to the International Trade Administration . But some destinations warrant more caution than others.

On Oct. 19, 2023, following the outbreak of war between Israel and Gaza and flaring tensions in the region, the U.S. State Department issued a worldwide caution advisory due to “increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests.” Prior to this update, the most recent worldwide caution advisory was issued in 2022 after a U.S. strike killed Ayman al-Zawahiri, Osama bin Laden’s successor as leader of Al Qaeda, causing “a higher potential for anti-American violence.” The worldwide caution advisory remains in effect.

The U.S. State Department also issues individual travel advisory levels for more than 200 countries globally, continually updating them based on a variety of risk indicators such as health, terrorism and civil unrest. Travel advisory levels range from Level 1, which means exercise normal precautions, to Level 4, which means do not travel there.

About 10% of countries – 19 total – have a Level 4: “Do Not Travel” advisory as of Mar. 4. In Level 4 countries, the U.S. government may have “very limited ability” to step in should travelers’ safety or security be at risk, according to the State Department. Crime, civil unrest, kidnapping and terrorism are common risk factors associated with Level 4 countries.

So far in 2024, the State Department made changes to the existing Level 4 advisories for Myanmar, Iran and Gaza, and moved Niger and Lebanon off of the Level 4 list.

Places With a Level 4 Travel Advisory

These are the primary areas the U.S. government says not to travel to right now, in alphabetical order:

Jump to Place: Afghanistan Belarus Burkina Faso Central African Republic Myanmar (formerly Burma) Gaza Haiti Iran Iraq Libya Mali Mexico North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) Russia Somalia South Sudan Sudan Syria Ukraine Venezuela Yemen

Afghanistan: The Central Asian country is wrestling with “terrorism, risk of wrongful detention, kidnapping and crime,” according to the State Department. U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for wrongful detention and kidnapping. In 2022, the government reinstituted public floggings and executions, and women’s rights are disappearing under Taliban control. The U.S. Embassy in Kabul halted operations in August 2021. Since the Taliban took control , many forms of international aid have been halted . Meanwhile, in 2023, some of the year’s deadliest earthquakes killed more than 2,400 in Afghanistan while the country continues to face a years-long extreme drought.

Belarus: Belarus, which shares a western border with Russia and a southern border with Ukraine, has been flagged for “Belarusian authorities’ continued facilitation of Russia’s war against Ukraine, the buildup of Russian military forces in Belarus, the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, the potential of civil unrest, the risk of detention, and the Embassy’s limited ability to assist U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Belarus.” The U.S. Embassy in Minsk halted operations in February 2022.

Burkina Faso: Terrorism, crime and kidnapping are plaguing this West African nation. Terrorist attacks may target hotels, restaurants and schools with little to no warning, and the East and Sahel regions of the country are under a state of emergency. In late November 2023, hundreds died in clashes between state security forces and rebels near the country’s border with Mali. In June, more than 2 million people in Burkina Faso were displaced due to “violence linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group.”

Central African Republic: While there have not been specific incidents of U.S. citizens targeted with violence or crime, violent crime and sudden closure of roads and borders is common. The advisory states that “Embassy Bangui’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens, crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping” is a factor in its assessment. Recent data from UNICEF suggests the country has the worst drinking water accessibility of all countries in 2022.

Myanmar (Formerly Burma): Armed conflict and civil unrest are the primary reasons to not travel to this Southeast Asian country, which experienced a military coup in early 2021. Limited health care resources, wrongful detentions and “areas with land mines and unexploded ordnance” are also listed as risk factors. After Ukraine and Israel, Myanmar had the highest conflict-related death toll in 2023.

Gaza : Hamas, a foreign terrorist organization as designated by the State Department, controls much of the Gaza Strip, which shares borders with both Israel and Egypt. On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas fighters broke across the border into Israel, killing hundreds of civilians and soldiers in a brazen attack that stunned Israelis. On Oct. 10, Israel hit the Gaza Strip with “the fiercest air strikes in its 75-year conflict” according to Reuters . The conflict has since escalated into war between Israel and Hamas, with regular Israeli airstrikes leading to extensive civilian casualties in Gaza. As of mid-December, nearly 85% of Gaza’s population were displaced from their homes, according to UN estimates . The region continues to face shortages of food , water, electricity and medical supplies , with conditions deemed “far beyond a humanitarian crisis.” The State Department warns of terrorism and armed conflict within Gaza’s borders.

Haiti: In July 2023, the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince in response to the increased risk of kidnapping and violent crime in the country , as well as armed conflict between gangs and police. The travel advisory states that cases of kidnapping “often involve ransom negotiations and U.S. citizen victims have been physically harmed during kidnappings.” The travel advisory also states that “U.S. citizens in Haiti should depart Haiti as soon as possible” given “the current security situation and infrastructure challenges.” A series of gang attacks in late September 2023 caused thousands to flee their homes, and many aid groups have been forced to cut or suspend operations amid escalating violence in recent months.

Iran: Terrorism, kidnapping and civil unrest are risk factors for all travelers to Iran, while U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for “arbitrary arrest.” U.S.-Iranian nationals such as students, journalists and business travelers have been arrested on charges of espionage and threatening national security. Executions in Iran rose sharply between 2021 and 2022, bringing the country’s total to nearly 580 people over the year, according to a report by Amnesty International released in May 2023.

Iraq: The State Department cites “terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict [and] civil unrest” as cause for the country’s Level 4 distinction. Iraq’s northern borders, and its border with Syria, are especially dangerous. Since the escalation of conflict in neighboring Israel in October, there has been an increase in attacks against Iraqi military bases, which host U.S. troops and other international forces. In October 2023, non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members were ordered to leave the U.S. embassy in Baghdad.

Libya: Following the end of its dictatorship over a decade ago, Libya has been wrought with internal conflict between armed groups in the East and West. Armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, kidnapping and terrorism are all risk factors. U.S. citizens have been targets of kidnapping for ransom, with terrorists targeting hotels and airports frequented by Westerners. The U.S. Embassy in Tripoli halted operations in 2014. In mid-September 2023, floods, which some say were intensified by climate change , killed thousands in eastern Libya. Clashes between armed factions escalated across the country in the latter half of 2023, including in the capital city of Tripoli and in Benghazi.

Mali: After experiencing military coups in 2020 and 2021, crime, terrorism and kidnapping are all prevalent threats in this West African landlocked nation. In July 2022, non-emergency U.S. government employees and their families were ordered to leave the country due to higher risk of terrorist activity. A U.N. report in August 2023 said that military groups in the country, including both Mali security forces and possibly Russian Wagner mercenaries, were spreading terror through the use of violence against women and human rights abuses. Democratic elections were supposed to occur in February 2024, but Mali’s military junta postponed the plans indefinitely. In December, the U.N. officially ended a decade-long peacekeeping presence in the country, which had been among the agency’s deadliest missions, with hundreds of the mission personnel killed since 2013.

Mexico: Each state in Mexico is assessed separately for travel advisory levels. Six of the 32 states in Mexico are designated as Level 4: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas. Crime and kidnapping are listed as the primary risk factors throughout the country. Nearly 112,000 people were missing across the country as of October, a number the U.N. has called “alarming.”

North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea): U.S. passports are not valid for travel “to, in, or through” this country, home to one of the world's longest-running dynastic dictatorships. The travel advisory states that the Level 4 distinction is due to “the continuing serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals.” In July 2023, a U.S. soldier fled across the border into North Korea, where he is believed to be in North Korean custody, the first American detained in the North in nearly five years. He was returned to U.S. custody in September 2023.

Russia: The travel advisory for Russia cites its invasion of Ukraine , harassment of U.S. citizens by Russian government officials and arbitrary law enforcement as a few of the reasons for the Level 4 designation. Chechnya and Mount Elbrus are specifically listed as Level 4 regions. Terrorism, civil unrest, health, kidnapping and wrongful detention are all noted as risks.

Russia Invades Ukraine: A Timeline

Somalia: A severe drought resulting from five failed rainy seasons in a row killed 43,000 people in 2022, and caused a famine amid conflict with Islamist insurgents . Violent crime is common throughout Somalia , pirates frequent its coast off the Horn of Africa, and medical facilities, where they exist, have limited capacity. Crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health and kidnapping are all risk factors. In January 2024, some passengers aboard a U.N.-contracted helicopter were taken hostage by al-Shabaab militants after the vehicle crashed in central Somalia.

South Sudan: Crime, kidnapping and armed conflict are the primary risk factors for South Sudan, which separated from Sudan in 2011, making it the world’s newest country . Weapons are readily available, and travelers have been victims of sexual assault and armed robbery.

Sudan: The U.S. evacuated its embassy in Khartoum in April 2023, and the country closed its airspace due to the ongoing conflict in the country, only permitting humanitarian aid and evacuation efforts. Fighting has escalated in the region between two warring generals seeking to gain control after a military coup in 2021 ousted the country’s prime minister. Civil unrest is the primary risk factor for Africa’s third largest country by area. Crime, terrorism, kidnapping and armed conflict are also noted. The International Criminal Court began investigating alleged war crimes and violence against African ethnic groups in the country in 2023. Millions have fled their homes due to conflict, and the U.N. has said its efforts to provide aid have been hindered by a lack of support, safety and resources. As recently as December 2023, the United Nations warned of catastrophic famine , with millions of children at-risk for malnutrition .

Syria: The advisory states that “No part of Syria is safe from violence,” with terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict and risk of unjust detention all potential risk factors. U.S. citizens are often a target for kidnappings and detention. The U.S. Embassy in Damascus halted operations in 2012. Fighting in neighboring Israel has escalated since October, and the conflict has spilled over into Syria, where the U.S. has carried out air strikes following drone and rocket attacks against American troops in Syria and Iraq, triggered by the Israel-Hamas war.

Ukraine: Russian setbacks in their invasion of Ukraine buoyed hopes in Ukraine in 2023. However, Ukraine is a Level 4 country due to Russia’s invasion, with crime and civil unrest also noted as risk factors. The country’s forces shot down two Russian fighter jets on Christmas Eve 2023, in a move Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said “sets the right mood for the entire year ahead.”

Venezuela: Human rights abuses and lack of health care plague this South American nation, which has been in a political crisis since 2014. In 2019, diplomatic personnel were withdrawn from the U.S. Embassy in Caracas. Threats in the country include crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, wrongful detention and poor health infrastructure.

Yemen: Six of the nine risk factors defined by the State Department – terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, kidnapping, armed conflict and landmines – are all present in Yemen. Despite private companies offering tourist visits to the Yemeni island of Socotra, the U.S. government argues those arranging such visits “are putting tourists in danger.” Civil war and cholera are also both present throughout the country. The U.S. Embassy in Sanaa halted operations in 2015. The country has experienced a relative lull in the civil war fighting, but as peace negotiations have gotten traction, flare ups in the fighting have jeopardized progress. Most recently, the U.S. and U.K. have carried out a series of airstrikes in the country, targeting Iran-backed Houthi sites.

Other Countries to Watch

Since Jan. 1, the State Department has updated travel advisories for 17 different countries as well as for the West Bank and Gaza, adding information about specific regions or risk factors, or simply renewing an existing advisory. Travel advisory levels can change based on several factors in a nation, such as increased civil unrest, policies that affect human rights or higher risks of unlawful detention.

The State Department has given about 25 countries an assessment of Level 3, meaning it recommends people “reconsider travel” to those destinations.

On Oct. 14, one week after the deadly Hamas attack on Israel, Israel and the West Bank were both moved from Level 2 to Level 3, while Gaza remains at Level 4. The region’s travel advisory was updated in November to reflect travel restrictions for certain government employees who have not already left the area, and it was updated again on Jan. 3.

Following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in early October, the U.S. State Department raised Lebanon ’s travel advisory level from a Level 3 to a Level 4 level due to “the unpredictable security situation related to rocket, missile, and artillery exchanges” between Israel and Hezbollah or other militant groups. In December, the U.S. Embassy in Beirut returned to normal staffing and presence, and on Jan. 29, the country was moved back to Level 3. Crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping and unexploded landmines are listed as the country’s primary risk factors. However, the country’s borders with Syria and with Israel, as well as refugee settlements within Lebanon, are specifically noted as Level 4 regions.

China became a Level 3 country in late 2020, with an update in December 2022 citing “the surge in COVID-19 cases, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, and COVID-19-related restrictions” as the reason for the advisory. In June 2023, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) was moved from the Level 3 to the Level 2 list, but travelers are still advised to be cautious in the area due to “arbitrary enforcement of local laws.” Meanwhile, Macau remains at Level 3.

Following an attempted coup in August 2023, Niger was elevated to Level 4 in August and the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Niamey. In early January 2024, the overall risk level for the country was lowered back to Level 3. Despite the new classification, the State Department still asks non-emergency government personnel and eligible family members to depart the country.

In mid-December 2023 there was an explosion at Guinea’s main fuel depot which has since affected access to health care and basic goods and services. The country was subsequently designated a Level 3 nation after having previously been Level 2. Concerns about civil unrest, health, crime and fuel shortages impacting local infrastructure were listed as the primary risk factors contributing to the change.

Several Level 3 countries are among the worst countries for human trafficking, as designated by the State Department’s annual Trafficking in Persons Report . Level 3 countries on this list include Papua New Guinea, Guinea Bissau, China and Chad. There are also nine Level 4 countries designated as among the worst for human trafficking: Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran, Myanmar, North Korea, Russia, Syria, South Sudan and Venezuela.

Over 70 countries are currently at Level 2, meaning the State Department recommends travelers “exercise increased caution” when traveling to those destinations.

Botswana became the newest Level 2 country on Feb. 26 after having previously been Level 1, with crime noted as the primary risk factor.

France, which saw nationwide protests throughout 2023, has civil unrest and terrorism noted as risk factors for its Level 2 status, and Sweden’s Level 2 status is associated with risks of terrorism.

The Level 2 travel advisory for the Bahamas was updated in January to reflect water safety concerns. The advisory warns that “activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated” and notes that government personnel are “not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.” It also warns visitors to be mindful of sharks, weather and water conditions. The advisory also says that crime is a primary risk factor with gang-on-gang violence contributing to high homicide rates in some areas. Visitors are asked to “be vigilant” and to not physically resist robbery attempts.

Bangladesh 's Level 2 travel advisory was updated in October 2023 to add a note about the country’s general election , which took place Jan. 7, 2024. The advisory states “demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.” The U.S. has since claimed the country’s election was not free nor fair.

In November 2023, several Level 2 travel advisories were updated with new cautionary information. The advisory for Ghana was updated to reflect threats against LGBTQI+ travelers specifically, noting “anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric and violence have increased in recent years.” Meanwhile, the advisory for South Africa was updated in February to note that routes recommended by GPS may be unsafe with higher risk for crime.

Turkmenistan was moved off of the Level 2 list to become the newest addition to the Level 1 list on Jan. 22, meaning normal precautions are recommended but there are no risk factors causing travelers to practice increased caution.

The State Department asks travelers to pay attention to travel advisory levels and alerts , review country information pages for their destinations and read related country security reports before going abroad.

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Travel Advisory September 8, 2023

Australia - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with removal of major event information.

Exercise normal precautions in Australia. 

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

If you decide to travel to Australia:

• 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 .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Australia.
• 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 .

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

Must be valid at time of entry

One page required for entry stamp

Amounts over AUD 10,000, or equivalent, must be declared

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. consulate general sydney.

Suite 2, 50 Miller Street North Sydney, NSW 2060 Australia Telephone:  +(61) (2) 2 8219-2100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (2) 4422-2201 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Embassy Canberra (The Embassy does not provide consular services.) Moonah Place Yarralumla, ACT 2600 Australia Telephone: +(61) (2) 6214-5600 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (2) 411-424-608 Fax: +(61) (2) 6214-5970

U.S. Consulate General Melbourne 553 St. Kilda Road Melbourne, VIC 3004 Australia Telephone: +(61) (3) 9526-5900 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (3) 9389-3601 Fax: +(61) (3) 9526-5968 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Perth 4th Floor 16 St. George's Terrace Perth, WA 6000 Australia Telephone: +(61) (8) 6144-5100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (8) 9476-0081 Fax: +(61) (8) 9325-5914 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.   

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

You must have a valid U.S. passport and a visa or an approved Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enter Australia. Most U.S. passport holders traveling to Australia for tourism or business purposes for less than 90 days can obtain an ETA. The ETA is an electronic label-free visa and can be obtained at the ETA website for a small service fee. Airlines and many travel agents in the United States are also able to apply for ETAs on behalf of travelers.

If you overstay your ETA or any other visa, even for short periods, you may be subject to exclusion, detention, and removal by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

If you are travelling on a valid U.S. ePassport (a passport that contains an electronic chip) and are 16 years of age or older, you are eligible to use Australia’s automated border processing system, SmartGate, upon arrival in Australia (SmartGate kiosks are available only at participating airports). There is no additional enrollment process or fee to use SmartGate. Visit the SmartGate website for more information and for a list of participating airports in Australia.

Visit the Embassy of Australia website for the most current visa information.  

HIV/AIDS restrictions. Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors and foreigners seeking permanent residence in Australia. Depending on the type of visa you apply for, the length of your stay, and your intended activities in Australia, you may be required to undergo a medical examination before the Australian Department of Home Affairs will issue you a visa.

If you are in the application process, and are found to be HIV positive, a decision on the application will be considered on the same grounds as any other pre-existing medical condition (such as tuberculosis or cancer), with the focus on the cost to Australia’s health care and community services.

Additional information about Australian immigration health requirements can be found here.

Please verify this information with the Embassy of Australia in Washington D.C. before you travel. 

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorists have targeted, and could continue to target, Australia.

• Australia has an alert system for possible terrorist attacks. The threat levels range from “not expected” to “certain.” The Australian National Security website has up-to-date information regarding the current terrorism threat level. You may also contact the Australian National Security Hotline at 61-1-800-123-400.
• U.S. citizens in Australia should remain vigilant toward their personal security and exercise caution.
• Australian law protects the right of individuals and groups to engage in peaceful protest and to publicly express their views. Demonstrations and political rallies are generally approved by local authorities and well publicized. However, please be cautious of any possible confrontation that could escalate into violence. You should attempt to avoid the areas of demonstrations and be careful within the vicinity of any demonstrations. You should stay current with media coverage of local events and always be aware of your surroundings.
• You should be aware that robberies, burglaries, assault, and auto theft are common in Australia’s larger cities.
• Foreign visitors in popular tourist areas are targets for pickpockets, purse-snatchers, and petty thieves. Most petty crime can be avoided if basic security precautions are taken.
• Be careful when visiting bars or clubs in the entertainment areas of major cities, as “bar brawls” and other assaults sometimes occur. You should watch out for drink spiking when consuming alcohol with unfamiliar people.

See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime:

• Report crimes to the local police at 000 and contact the U.S. Consulate in your district.
• The local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
• See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide information about Australian Victim Assistance programs.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the U.S. consulate in your district for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated, and rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage, and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, imprisoned or deported.

• It is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings, such as inside certain areas of Australian airports, near prisons, and at military bases.
• Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Alcohol and Drugs:

• Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy sentences and fines. Please see Australia’s Department of Health webpage for further information. 
• Driving under the influence of alcohol can result in jail time.
• Random breath testing of a driver's blood alcohol level is a common occurrence.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Potential Health Screening: Australian authorities have broad powers to prevent the entry of diseases and other materials into Australia that might pose a threat to its welfare. In the event of a public health emergency involving a communicable disease, passengers arriving in Australia may be subject to strict health screening measures, including testing, monitoring, and assessment for possible quarantine.

Customs: Australian customs authorities enforce very strict regulations concerning the importation from all countries of items such as agricultural goods, including plants and food products, and wood products, as well as very strict quarantine standards for animals and pets. Can you bring it in?

Contact the Embassy of Australia in Washington, D.C., or one of Australia's consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements, and visit the Australian Government’s Department of Agriculture website for additional information.

Natural Disasters:

Australia experiences a range of natural disasters, including bushfires, floods, and severe storms. These events are difficult to predict and can result in loss of life. You should be aware of conditions around you and monitor local weather and safety reports so you can take appropriate action when needed.

See our webpage for information on storm preparedness and response.

Safety Concerns:

Outdoor Recreation/Adventure

• Be aware that Australian fauna can be dangerous. From jellyfish to crocodiles, sharks, poisonous insects, and snakes, the continent and its waters host wildlife that merit awe and respect in equal doses.
• Visit the Wet Tropics Management Authority visitor information guide for information on Australian wildlife and marine life.
• Take important safety precautions when swimming, such as swimming only between the flags where a lifeguard is present, and never swimming alone.
• Further information on beach safety can be found on the Surf Life Saving website.

Follow recommended precautions when snorkeling and scuba diving and never dive alone. Over the past few years, there have been numerous deaths related to snorkeling and scuba diving incidents.

Faith-Based Travelers : See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Australia. Australian federal law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation.

As of December 9, 2017 Australia defines marriage as “the union between two people.” Australia grants temporary and permanent visas to same-sex partners of Australian citizens.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance

• Australia enforces laws prohibiting discrimination against access to premises, facilities, and accommodation.
• Many of the downtown areas of Australian cities were built in the 1800s. These areas often have narrow sidewalks crowded with pedestrians and tourists.
• Most public transit, parking, streets, and buildings are accessible for disabled travelers.
• Tourist spots at the beach or in the Australian outback can have varying degrees of accessibility.
• Many accommodations and venues provide accessibility information on their websites.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Australia, dial 000.

Ambulance services are widely available.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

• Excellent medical care is available in Australia.
• Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
• Serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on overseas insurance coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

Prescriptions:

• If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of  Australia  to ensure the medication is  legal in   Australia .
• Always, carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of hospitals and a link to the Australian National Health Services Directory at Medical Assistance - U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Australia (usembassy.gov) . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Australia.

Pharmaceuticals:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.  

Adventure Travel

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel .

Air Quality

Air pollution is a significant problem during certain months in Australia due to bush fires. Consider the impact seasonal bush fire season pollution may have on your health and consult your doctor before traveling.

The air quality varies considerably and changes with the season. It is typically at its worst in the bush fire season. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include:

• Infants, children, and teens
• People over 65 years of age
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema;
• People with heart disease or diabetes
• People who work or are active outdoors

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:

• Traffic operates on the left side of the road, and all vehicles use right-hand drive.
• Use caution when crossing streets and when driving.
• When crossing roads on foot, make sure you look carefully in all directions.
• Seat belt use by drivers and all passengers is mandatory, and fines apply for not wearing them.
• Motorcyclists must wear helmets.
• Speed limits and laws are rigorously enforced. Speed limits vary throughout Australia and are measured in kilometers, not miles. Be aware that speed cameras are everywhere and you will be ticketed for driving over the speed limit.
• Roads and streets are frequently narrower and less graded than U.S. highways.
• Outside major metropolitan areas, most highways are two-lane roads with significant distances between destinations.
• When driving in Australia, exercise caution while passing or merging with adjacent traffic.
• If driving in rural areas, be alert to free-roaming animals, such as kangaroos, and "road-trains" (several semi-truck trailers connected together).
• Passing road-trains is dangerous, and you should pull over to allow on-coming road-trains to pass to avoid being sideswiped.
• If you have no experience with a 4-wheel drive vehicle, you should exercise common-sense when driving in the Australian outback.

Traffic Laws:

• Each state/territory has different rules about using a foreign driver’s license and the conditions under which a visitor might have to get an international driver’s license. More information about  driving rules and regulations is available by state .
• Texting or holding your phone while driving is against the law in Australia, but you can use a hands-free system to communicate while driving.
• For specific information concerning Australian driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, mandatory insurance, and the rental and operation of motor vehicles in Australia, visit the  Australian Tourist Commission website.

Public Transportation:  Australia has an extensive and safe public transportation network consisting of buses, streetcars, ferries, trains, and subways. Metered taxis and ride sharing services are also prevalent. Use common sense safety practices, such as guarding valuables and remaining aware of your surroundings, on all public transportation.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Australia’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Australia’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Australia should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings website  portal select “broadcast warnings”.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Australia .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Foreign Office issues 'strict' warning to anyone wanting to travel to Australia

If you can't bring it with you, it's going in the bin.

If you want to travel to another country, there's always going to be a plethora of rules, restrictions and regulations you've got to follow.

It's a simple process - you've got to jump through however many hoops each country holds up for you or you're not getting in, either that or the airport bin is going to be seeing a lot of action before you board your flight .

Anyone heading off to the EU will know there's a bunch of new things to be aware of after certain political developments of which we will not speak.

Meanwhile, if you're wanting to head further afield to somewhere like Australia then you'd better make sure you're clued up on all the goings on and rules to follow.

Of course if you're planning a trip to Australia this summer remember that you'd be travelling to the southern hemisphere where things would flip around and you'd actually be visiting Australia in what is their winter.

Still, it'd be nice to get away to that far off land of sun, sea, sand, spiders and snakes.

Before you head off the Foreign Office would like to remind you that Australia has 'strict quarantine rules to keep out pests and diseases'.

To make this work, you'll need to fill out something called an Incoming Passenger Card and declare any goods which might break these rules.

Food, animal products and plant material all need to be declared, and plant material does include wood so you'd need to be careful if your holiday is actually a covert excuse to transport timber to the other side of the world.

If you don't declare what the Aussies want you to mention then you could find your belongings confiscated and destroyed.

On top of that, if you'll be asked to declare whether you've been to a rural area or been near or in contact with farm animals in the past 30 days.

The Australians take all this stuff very seriously, and it's no surprise considering the ecological devastation they suffered in the 90s after Bart Simpson released his pet bullfrog and before long, a horde of 'chazzwazzers' were destroying everything in sight.

This might all sound like a bit of a rigmarole but it's done to clamp down on the possibility of pests and diseases entering the country.

Wherever in the world you're planning to travel on your holidays, it's best if you stay up to date on all the latest travel rules , as you definitely don't want to get caught out.

Topics:  Travel , Australia , Holiday

Joe graduated from the University of Salford with a degree in Journalism and worked for Reach before joining the LADbible Group. When not writing he enjoys the nerdier things in life like painting wargaming miniatures and chatting with other nerds on the internet. He's also spent a few years coaching fencing. Contact him via [email protected]

@ MrJoeHarker

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

The Government of Canada’s official source of travel information and advice, the Travel Advice and Advisories help you to make informed decisions and travel safely while you are outside Canada. Check the page for your destination often, because safety and security conditions may change. See Travel Advice and Advisories – FAQ for more information.

Where are you going?

Take normal security precautions

Exercise a high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Travel advice from other countries

Travel advice is also provided by the governments of Australia , New Zealand , the United Kingdom and the United States .

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  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Outback helicopter rescue prompts travel warning from authorities ahead of remote dry season tourism

Travellers set to explore one of northern Australia's most renowned tourist destinations are being urged to properly prepare for remote travel as the Kimberley region welcomes visitors for the dry season. 

On Sunday, Kununurra police rescued a tourist and his passenger by helicopter after they became stranded for two days in a remote area of the East Kimberley.

John Small's vehicle broke down after travelling through floodwater on the Duncan Highway, where he managed to contact authorities through the SOS mode on his phone.

Mr Small said he packed enough food and water to last 10 days and, after his experience, urged other visitors to check road conditions ahead of travel. 

"I would go and check with the local police to see what was open and what was closed … always carry extra water and always carry some tucker," he said. 

Kununurra Acting Officer In Charge Gerard Gibson said Mr Small was stuck in an area where no other vehicles were passing through.

He said the Kimberley landscape was unlike anywhere else in the country and required extra precautions.

"People may underestimate the conditions, temperatures, vastness. So we ask people to do as much research as they can about where they're travelling," Senior Sergeant Gibson said.

Travellers urged to stock supplies

Sergeant Cameron Willis is a Kimberley police officer and also works as a search mission controller in land search operations.

As tourists descend upon the region, Sergeant Willis said it was important for travellers' vehicles and communication systems to be prepared ahead of their journey.

"Carry enough water and supplies, always let someone know where you're going and. if you can, carry a personal locator beacon, which activates a GPS signal that goes off to AMSA, which is the Australian Maritime Safety Agency," he said.

A majority of the West Kimberley's national parks reopened for the season this week  after major closures last year due to a one-in-100-year flood event.

Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions parks and visitor services regional leader Sarah Mullineux said people venturing on hikes needed to take extra care as well as being croc-wise.

"For most of them you're walking through riverbeds sometimes, uneven surfaces, even clambering over rocks to go through a trail and experience an amazing sight," she said.

"So just being really prepared, sun smart, and considering the heat risk."

Beautiful but remote

Sergeant Willis said while the Kimberley was a beautiful part of the world to explore, the remoteness and lack of knowledge were often how people ran into trouble.

"Sometimes it's hundreds and hundreds of kilometres between certain towns and if you get off the beaten track from where people normally go, then you're by yourself and you can get stuck," he said.

As someone who enjoys maps and searching vast landscapes, the role is an enjoyable line of work for Sergeant Willis. But he said nothing was more rewarding than locating a person who had become lost.

"Finding someone who's lost and in distress and getting them back to their families is a really big thing," he said.

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US tourists face 12 years in prison for accidentally bringing ammo to Caribbean island

The u.s. state department is warning travelers about strict new laws in turks and caicos islands that carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 12 years for bringing guns or ammunition to the island: "if you bring a firearm or ammunition into tci, even inadvertently, we will not be able to secure your release from custody", by leslie gaydos • published april 23, 2024 • updated on april 25, 2024 at 8:56 pm.

An Oklahoma woman was reunited Tuesday with her young children after being detained for almost two weeks in Turks and Caicos Islands for allegedly violating their strict guns and ammunition law. Her husband is being held in the British Overseas Territory near the Bahamas.

Ryan and Valerie Watson, who live in Oklahoma, left for Turks and Caicos Islands on April 7 to celebrate the 40th birthdays of Ryan and two friends. When they went through security for their return flight, their carry-on was flagged and searched and officials found a Ziploc bag of bullets.

"They were hunting ammunition rounds that I use for whitetail deer," said Ryan, "and I recognized them and I thought, oh man, what a bonehead mistake that I had no idea that those were in there."

The two shared their story virtually with NBC10 Boston last week before their first court hearing. They were stuck on the island, their passports confiscated, separated from their young son and daughter.

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"When I heard that, I immediately was terrified because I was like, we can't both be in prison for 12 years. We have kids at home. And this is such an innocent mistake that we didn't even know we weren't– we didn't even know it was there. So yeah, my immediate thought was our kids and them being, you know, parentless for, for that long," Valerie said.

The Watsons were questioned and charged with possession of ammunition. In 2022, Turks and Caicos passed an amendment with stiffer penalties for possession of weapons or ammunition, increasing the mandatory minimum prison sentence to 12 years.

This is something that we may never recover from Ryan Watson, American tourist charged with possession of ammunition in Turks and Caicos Islands

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TSA to review airport security after Turks and Caicos ammo arrests

Mother's warning after son's 8-month Turks and Caicos prison sentence: ‘It's not behind us'

Last September, the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a travel alert warning Americans after a tourist from Indiana got an eight-month prison sentence for possession of ammunition.

The alert says: "We wish to remind all travelers that declaring a weapon in your luggage with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring the weapon into TCI [Turks and Caicos Islands] and will result in your arrest.

"We strongly encourage you to carefully check your luggage for stray ammunition or forgotten weapons before departing for TCI. If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, we will not be able to secure your release from custody. You are subject to TCI laws and must follow local law enforcement procedures," the alert continued.

Bryan Hagerich was detained by Turks and Caicos authorities after a family vacation in February when hunting ammunition was found in his luggage before he boarded a flight home. He said the ammunition was found in a bag he frequently used for weekend hunting trips.

"I've been here for almost 70 days now after posting bail. I've been out, right now just waiting to go to the hearing. That's where my case would be heard, then following that would be sentencing," Hagerich said.

Hagerich, who played baseball professionally and was once drafted by the Florida Marlins, lives in Pennsylvania with his wife and two young kids. He spent eight days in prison before posting bail and is awaiting a May 3 court hearing.

"It's incredibly scary. You know, you just don't know what the next day may bring. You know, what path this may take. You know, you're in a completely different culture, a different country by yourself. You know, it's certainly a lot different than packing your bags and going away with your family for a few days. It's been the worst 70 days of my life," Hagerich said.

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He and the Watsons are also dealing with the financial strain of paying for an extended stay and being away from their jobs.

"We've already talked, and we're like, what if, you know, what if we lose our house? Which, when we moved to Oklahoma, we built a home that we thought was our forever home. And to think that this is going to ruin us..." said an emotional Valerie.

"This is something that we may never recover from," Ryan said.

"I'm just very anxious, eager to get home to my family," said Hagerich. "This has been too long. You know, it's just had so much irreparable harm to my family, that, you know, I just can't continue to see them struggle anymore. I just want to hug my family and start this healing process together."

After their hearing yesterday, Ryan was sent to jail; he was granted bail at a hearing on Wednesday. Charges were dropped for Valerie on Monday and she is now back in Oklahoma with her two children.

The judges in Turks and Caicos Islands are able to make exceptions to the mandatory minimum sentence if they determine there are "exceptional circumstances" in a case.

NBC10 Boston reached out to the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands' tourism bureau about the Watsons' situation and have not heard back. We contacted the State Department and a spokesperson told NBC10 Boston they are aware of the arrest of U.S. citizens in Turks and Caicos and that, "The U.S. Department of State and our embassies and consulates abroad have no greater priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas."

The spokesperson added, "When a U.S. citizen is arrested overseas, we stand ready to provide all appropriate consular assistance. In a foreign country, U.S. citizens are subject to that country's laws, even if they differ from those in the United States… As our security alert from September 22, 2023 states, in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), firearms, ammunition, and other weapons are not permitted. TCI authorities strictly enforce all firearms related laws. The penalty for traveling to TCI with a firearm, ammunition, or other weapon is a minimum custodial sentence of twelve (12) years. If a traveler brings a firearm or ammunition into TCI, the U.S. Department of State will not be able to secure their release from custody. Travelers are subject to TCI laws and must follow local law enforcement procedures."

The State Department said they are unable to provide the number of U.S. citizens charged with weapon/ammunition possession since the department is unable to track local arrests.

But law enforcement officials in Turks and Caicos Islands acknowledged Wednesday in a statement that three Americans are out on bail in such cases.

"The Firearms Ordinance applies to all persons present within the Turks and Caicos Islands regardless of status or origin," read the statement from the offices of the attorney general and the director of public prosecution.

pic.twitter.com/Kz31Ng5wJk — TCIG Communications Directorate (@TCIG_Press) April 24, 2024

Also Wednesday, the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a new statement urging all travelers to take care looking for weapons or ammunition when leaving the U.S.

" Carefully check your luggage for stray ammunition or forgotten weapons before departing from the United States ," the warning says in bold, going on to note that enforcement in Turks and Caicos Islands is strict, legally declared weapons aren't allowed in the territory and TSA screening may not turn up ammunition in baggage on the way out of the country.

" If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, even inadvertently, we will not be able to secure your release from custody. You are subject to TCI laws and must follow local law enforcement procedures," the statement said.

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China sounds warning after Philippines and US announce most expansive military drills yet

Exercises starting on Monday will be the first to be held outside Philippines’ territorial waters, and come amid a rise in tensions in the South China Sea

Philippine and US forces will carry out their first ever military exercises outside the south-east Asian country’s territorial waters, in a move China has said will only lead to greater insecurity in the South China Sea.

The annual Balikatan or “shoulder-to-shoulder” drills – which will run from 22 April to 10 May – will involve 16,700 soldiers simulating retaking enemy-occupied islands in areas facing Taiwan and the South China Sea .

It will be the first time the maritime exercises are carried out beyond Philippine territorial waters, according to Michael Logico, a Philippine army colonel overseeing the exercises. It will also be the first time the Philippine Coast Guard has taken part in military exercises. The coast guard has increasingly been at the forefront of clashes with China, particularly around the disputed Second Thomas Shoal .

In response to the planned drills, China’s foreign ministry warned that the Philippines should be “sober enough to realise” that bringing in external countries to show off their force in the South China Sea and provoke confrontation will only aggravate tensions and undermine regional stability.

“Attempts to bring in external forces to safeguard its so-called security will only lead to greater insecurity for itself,” ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a scheduled news conference, urging both countries to stop provocation.

Chinese state media was also critical of the drills, which they said would have a “destructive impact on regional security”.

On Thursday the Philippines’ foreign ministry said its decision to strengthen ties with Japan and the US was a “sovereign choice”, and urged China to “reflect upon its own actions” in the South China Sea.

“The source of tension in our region is well known to all,” the ministry said in a statement.

“It is China’s excessive maritime claims and aggressive behaviour, including its militarisation of reclaimed features, that are undermining regional peace and stability and raising tensions.”

Logico said US troops and their Philippine counterparts will simulate retaking islands occupied by hostile forces in the northernmost islands of the country, close to Taiwan and in the western Palawan province facing the South China Sea.

More than 16,700 Filipino and US troops will take part. On Thursday Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson Rear Adm Armando Balilo said six PCG vessels would take part for the first time. In previous years they have only patrolled the perimeter to keep out other parties.

A small French contingent will join this year’s drills for the first time since the annual exercise began in 1991, deploying a frigate that will sail jointly with Philippines and US naval vessels in Manila’s exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea.

About 14 nations will join as observers, including Japan, India and countries in Asean and the European Union, Logico said.

Aimed at improving communication and coordination between the US and Philippine militaries, the drills come against the backdrop of recent aggressive behaviour from Beijing in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait, flashpoints for Chinese and US tensions.

The so-called “gray-zone” harassment by China has included shining military-grade lasers at the Philippine Coast Guard, firing water cannon at vessels and ramming into Philippine ships running resupply missions near the Second Thomas Shoal, which both Manila and Beijing claim. Some Filipino crew have been injured in the clashes.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea despite a 2016 ruling by an international tribunal that found Beijing’s sweeping claims had no legal basis.

Last week, Joe Biden pledged to defend the Philippines from any attack in the South China Sea, as he hosted the first joint summit with Manila and Tokyo amid growing tensions with Beijing.

On Thursday, China’s top diplomat Wang Yi kicked off a tour of south-east Asia that will see him visit Indonesia, Cambodia and Papua New Guinea.

Indonesia’s president-elect Prabowo Subianto visited China at the beginning of April, where President Xi Jinping praised their ties and laid out a vision for regional peace. China is one of the biggest sources of foreign direct investment in Indonesia and has poured billions of dollars into projects in the country.

Wang will finish the tour in Papua New Guinea, where in recent years Beijing has tried to chip away at US and Australian influence.

Chi Hui Lin, Reuters and Agence France-Presse contributed to this report

• Philippines
• US foreign policy
• South China Sea
• Asia Pacific

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TUI issues 'three hour' warning to anyone flying from major UK airport

For anyone planning a summer holiday  this year, you might want to reconsider which airport you’re flying from.

TUI has issued a warning to travellers jetting out from Birmingham airport, advising them to arrive at the airport three hours early to avoid disappointment.

And, if you’re catching a long-haul flight , the advice is to arrive four hours before take off.

The warning by the travel company comes amid works going on at Birmingham Airport until June.

The security hall is undergoing a £60,000,000 transformation to introduce brand new scanners which will change hand luggage rules for all passengers. 

Once the update has been completed, you’ll be able to pass through security and leave your liquids and electronics in your carry-on bags.

The British government had set a deadline of June 1 for all airports to complete the upgrades, ahead of the 100ml rule being scrapped this summer. 

‘We’d like to remind you to arrive at the airport with sufficient time before your flight,’ TUI said in a statement.

‘At the moment, we’re recommending giving yourself three hours for flights to Europe and Africa, and four hours for long-haul flights. 

‘That way, you’ll have plenty of time to check in your luggage and make your way through the security queues.’

‘Arriving any earlier than this won’t mean you can check in or pass through security early.’

TUI also reminded passengers of their bag drop off system.

‘On that note, don’t forget that if your flight takes off before noon, you can drop your bags between 2pm and 9pm using our day-before bag drop, making your departure day easier. You can do this for all flights except those to the USA.’ 

Why does the 100ml liquid rule exist?

The liquid rules were introduced in 2006 due to a terror threat.

Terrorists had been poised to smuggle liquid explosives through security by disguising them as soft drinks.

They planned to carry the explosives aboard planes travelling from the United Kingdom to the United States and Canada.

As a result of the incident, unprecedented security measures were initially implemented at airports.

New rules introduced on August 10 2006 resulted in hundreds of cancelled flights, long delays and queues at UK airports.

What are the new rules for liquids when flying?

The days of chugging a bottle of water, desperately squinting at the labels of your toiletries and debating over whether lip balm is a liquid (generally it’s not) should be behind us very soon. 

Up until now, unless your liquid items are bang on or below 100ml and crammed inside a small, clear plastic bag, you would have to bid farewell to them before going through security. 

But Birmingham Airport, which handled 11,000,000 passengers last year, is set to become one of the first major British airports to scrap the 100ml rule from June 1 2024 – meanwhile other airports have delayed the launch, London Gatwick has set a new deadline of March 2025, while Manchester, East Midlands and Stanstead have also said their new scanners won’t be introduced until next year.

Birmingham airport bosses have been installing scanners that use X-ray technology to create a 3D scan of the contents of a passenger’s bag.

Not only will passengers be able to bring in liquids of more than 100ml, but they’ll no longer have to remove large electronic devices such as laptops from their bags, as per current restrictions .

Nick Barton, CEO of Birmingham Airport, previously told Metro.co.uk : ‘Birmingham Airport has invested £60 million in a new security hall and scanning equipment.

‘From June 1, our customers will see the benefits of the new security systems as we roll them out, which will result in a quicker and easier pre-flight security screening process for our customers.

‘In the meantime, up until the 1st June date, our existing security restrictions remain in place.

‘It is timely to remind all customers that they still need to remove electricals during the search process and only carry liquids, pastes and gels, up to 100ml, in 20 x 20cm in resealable bags in their hand luggage.’

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