PASSPORTOFFICES

Eritrea travel advisory

Level 2· Exercise Increased Caution State Department updated July 31, 2023

What the advisory says

Exercise increased caution in Eritrea due to travel restrictions , limited consular assistance , landmines , and wrongful detentions. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Eritrea, as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel outside of Asmara. U.S. citizens visiting or residing in Eritrea, including dual U.S.-Eritrean nationals, have been arrested and detained without charge or on false charges. The Department has determined that the risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals by the Eritrean government exists. Eritrean law enforcement officials routinely block access by U.S. government officials to U.S. citizens in detention. The U.S. Embassy therefore may not receive notification of your arrest or be allowed access to you if you are detained or arrested. There are landmines in many remote areas in Eritrea, particularly in Nakfa, AdiKeih, Arezza, the 25 mile-wide region (40 km) between the Setit and Mereb Rivers, and in areas north and west of Keren, areas near Massawa, Ghinda, Agordat, Barentu, Dekemhare, and south of Tessenae. Review the Travel guidance for additional information on travel to Eritrea.

Read the official advisory

U.S. posts in Eritrea

If you lose your passport or need emergency help while you are there, these are the posts that can assist.