On July 2, 2025, the Department of Labor's (Department or DOL) Employment and Training Administration (ETA) and Wage and Hour Division issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM or proposed rule), "Recission of Final Rule: Improving Protections for Workers in Temporary Agricultural Employment in the United States," proposing to rescind provisions contained within the final rule published by the Department on April 29, 2024. The Department is notifying the public about its proposed revisions to the information collection request (ICR) covered under H-2A Temporary Agricultural Labor Certification Program (Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Control Number 1205- 0466) based on the changes proposed through the NPRM. The Department is seeking comments regarding its proposal to replace the existing information collection tools (e.g., forms and instructions) covered under OMB Control Number 1205-0466 with those that were required to implement the final rule "Temporary Agricultural Employment of H-2A Nonimmigrants in the United States" published on October 12, 2022 ("2022 Final Rule"), and which were covered under the same OMB Control Number, 1205-0466, while maintaining some changes put in place by the final rule published on April 29, 2024. This comment request is part of continuing Departmental efforts to reduce paperwork and respondent burden in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA).
The Department of Homeland Security today posted a Federal Register notice on the termination of the 2021 designation of Venezuela for Temporary Protected Status.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, in coordination with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations Seattle, facilitated the arrest of Muhammad Chaudhry, a 52-year-old Pakistani national criminal alien.
Exercise increased caution in Mexico due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.
Advisory summary
- Many violent crimes take place in Mexico. They include homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery. There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mexico. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.
- The U.S. government has limited ability to help in many parts of Mexico. U.S. government employees are not allowed to travel to certain high-risk areas.
- Due to security risks, U.S. citizens should follow the same restrictions as U.S. government employees while traveling.
- Emergency services are limited or unavailable in remote or rural areas.
- If you encounter a road checkpoint, you should comply. Fleeing or ignoring instructions can lead to you being hurt or killed.
- Check the map of restricted areas.(opens in a new tab)
U.S. government employee travel restrictions (U.S. citizens are advised to follow):
- May not travel between cities after dark.
- Must rely on dispatched vehicles from regulated taxi stands or app-based services like Uber or Cabify and may not wave down taxis on the street.
- Should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas.
- May not drive between Mexican border cities, the U.S.-Mexico border and the interior of Mexico. There are some limited exceptions.
Risks in specific areas
Level: 4 - Do not travel
State of Colima: Do not travel due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations.
- Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed bystanders.
- U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents have been victims of kidnapping.
- U.S. government employees may travel to the following areas with the below restrictions:
- Manzanillo: Travel only to the central tourist and port areas of Manzanillo. Primary tourist areas include the historic city center and Malecon, the hotel zone, the Peninsula Santiago or Las Hadas area, and the Club Santiago Peninsula area.
- Travel between Manzanillo and Guadalajara: Travel is permitted only on Highways 54D, 110, and 200D.
- Travel between Manzanillo and Cihuatlán or Jalisco (including to the Manzanillo International Airport): Travel is permitted on Highway 200.
- U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas in the state of Colima.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Guerro: Do not travel due to terrorism and crime.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- Armed groups are active independently of the government in many areas of Guerrero. Members of these groups frequently maintain roadblocks and may use violence towards travelers.
- U.S. government employees may not travel to any area in the state of Guerrero, including tourist areas Acapulco, Zihuatanejo, Taxco, and Ixtapa.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Muchoacan: Do not travel due to terrorism and crime.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- Crime and violence are widespread in Michoacan state.
- U.S. government employees may travel to the following areas with the below restrictions:
- May travel on Federal Highway 15D to transit the state between Mexico City and Guadalajara.
- May travel to Morelia only by air or by land using Federal Highways 43 or 48D from Federal Highway 15D. Travel between the airport and the city is permitted by Highway 48D only.
- Must travel Lazaro Cardenas only by air and limit activities to the city center or port areas.
- May not travel to other areas of the state of Michoacan, including portions of the Monarch Butterfly Reserve located in Michoacan.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Sinaloa: Do not travel due to terrorism and crime.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- U.S. government employees may travel to:
- Mazatlan by air or sea only: Travel is limited to the historic town center from Avenida Gutierrez Najera to the ocean. Travel along the coast (Malecon) from the historic center until Route 503 is permitted. Travel must be via direct routes between these destinations and the airport or sea terminal.
- Los Mochis and Topolobampo by air or sea only: Travel is restricted to the city and the port. Travel must be via direct routes between these destinations and the airport.
- U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas in the state of Sinaloa.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
Sate of Tamaulipas: Do not travel due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- Organized crime activity is common along the northern border and in Ciudad Victoria. It includes gun battles, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, forced disappearances, extortion, and sexual assault.
- U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents have been victims of kidnapping.
- Criminal groups target public and private buses, as well as cars traveling through Tamaulipas. Criminals often kidnap passengers for ransom.
- Heavily armed members of criminal groups often patrol the state, especially along the border region from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo. They act without fear of punishment in these areas, and local law enforcement has limited capacity to respond to crime.
- Law enforcement capacity is greater in the tri-city area of Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira. These have a lower rate of violent criminal activity compared to the rest of the state.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Matamoros:
- Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas in Matamoros including the neighborhoods of Jardin and Rio, and the area of the city as defined by:
- The Rio Grande River to the north
- Avenida de Las Americas from the Brownsville and Matamoros Bridge south to Calle Hidalgo and west to Calle Diez
- Diagonal Cuauhtemoc east to Avenida Canales continuing east to Calle Primera
- Avenida Lauro Villar from Calle Primera east to Calle Republica de Cuba
- Calle Republica de Cuba from Avenida Lauro Villar north to Avenida Tamaulipas
- Other permitted areas in Matamoros include the shops and restaurants along any of these routes: Calle Sexta to the Holiday Inn, Plaza Fiesta, the Soriana Market at Calle Primera and Avenida Canales, the Soriana Market at Veteran’s Bridge via Avenida Lauro Villa or Avenida Division del Norte, and the HEB on Avenida Lauro Villar
- An armored vehicle is required for all travel to and from the Matamoros Airport and all travel to Reynosa.
- U.S. government employees have a curfew of midnight to 6am in Matamoros.
Nuevo Laredo:
- Travel to Nuevo Laredo is permitted for U.S. government employees who have approved official travel only. All U.S. government employees on official travel must remain within the Nuevo Laredo boundaries:
- Northern boundary: The Rio Grande River
- Eastern boundary: Boulevard Colosio
- Western boundary: Avenida Cesar Lopez de Lara
- Southern boundary: Calle 15 de Septiembre
- U.S. government employees may not travel by land between cities in Tamaulipas using interior Mexican highways. They must instead travel on the U.S. side of the border.
- Travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey is limited to Federal Highway 85D during daylight hours with prior authorization.
Nuevo Progreso:
- U.S. government employees may travel to Nuevo Progreso within a limited radius of the Progreso-Nuevo Progreso International Bridge in Nuevo Progreso.
- Access to Nuevo Progreso is only permitted via the Progreso Port of Entry in Texas, on foot (no vehicle crossing), between 7am and 6pm.
State of Zacatecas: Do not travel due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- Violent crime, extortion, and gang activity are widespread in Zacatecas state.
- U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents have been victims of kidnapping.
- U.S. government employees may travel to Zacatecas city by air only. The permitted areas of Zacatecas City include the city limits and the airport, and Highway 45 between the 2 locations.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
Level: 3 - Reconsider travel
State of Baja California: Reconsider travel due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- Criminal groups fight for control in border areas. They want to set up routes for narco-trafficking and human smuggling.
- Travelers should remain on main highways and avoid remote locations.
- There are high homicide numbers in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana.
- Most homicides appear to be targeted. However, assassinations and territorial disputes between criminal organizations can injure or kill bystanders.
- U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents have been victims of kidnapping.
- The only travel restrictions in Baja California state are in Mexicali Valley. There are no additional travel restrictions for U.S. government employees in Baja California state, including in Tijuana, Ensenada, and Rosarito.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
Mexicali Valley:
Due to security risks, U.S. government employees must follow these restrictions regarding Mexicali Valley.
U.S. government employees may not travel in the Mexicali Valley within the below boundaries:
- Eastern boundary: From the U.S. border to the Gulf of California along the U.S. and Baja or Sonora state borders.
- Southern boundary: A straight line east from La Ventana to the Gulf of California.
- Western boundary: The area east of Highway 5 from La Ventana to Boulevard Lazaro Cardenes in Mexicali City.
- Northern boundary: Boulevard Lazaro Cardenas or Highway 92 and U.S. Border from Highway 1 to the Sonora State border.
U.S. government employees may travel in the Mexicali Valley to the following areas:
- Mexicali City: Travel within Mexicali City north of Boulevard Lazaro Cardenes and Highway 92 and west of Highway 1 to the U.S. border.
- Los Algodones: Travel to and within the city limit is only permitted via the United States through the Andrade Port of Entry.
- Mexicali airport: Travel to and from Mexicali and the airport is permitted on Highway 1 and Highway 8 during daylight hours only.
State of Chiapas: Reconsider travel due to terrorism and crime.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- U.S. government employees may travel to Tapachula within the city limits and to the south and west of Highway 200.
- U.S. government employees may not travel to the municipality of Ocozocoautla.
- U.S. government employees may not travel to the following areas in Southeastern Chiapas within the below boundaries:
- East-Northeast boundary: The Mexico-Guatemala border from the Pacific Ocean to Netzahualcóyotl.
- Northern boundary: From Netzahualcóyotl in a straight line to Ocosingo.
- Western boundary: In straight lines from Ocosingo to El Ocote, from El Ocote to San Francisco Pujiltic, and from San Franciso Pujiltic to Mapastepec. Also, a straight line from southeast Tapachula to Tres Hermanos San Isidro on the coast.
- South-Southwest boundary: East and north of Highway 200 from Mapastepec to Tapachula.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Chihuahua: Reconsider travel due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations.
- Territory battles between these groups have led to violent crime in places like restaurants and malls where U.S. citizens and government employees go. Shootings have hurt or killed bystanders.
- U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents have been kidnapped.
- U.S. government employees may not travel to certain areas of Chihuahua, including Copper Canyon.
- Review a map of restricted areas.
Ascension:
- U.S. government employees may travel on Highway 2 directly between Ciudad Juarez and Ascension.
Ciudad Juarez:
- Due to security risks, U.S. government employees may travel to Ciudad Juarez within the below boundaries:
- Eastern boundary: Bulevar Independencia
- Southern boundary: De los Montes Urales; Avenida Manuel J Clouthier; Carretera de Juárez
- Western boundary: Via Juan Gabriel; Avenida de los Insurgentes; Calle Miguel Ahumada; Francisco Javier Mina; Melchor Ocampo
- Northern boundary: The U.S.-Mexico border
- U.S. government employees may travel directly to Ciudad Juarez’s Abraham González International Airport using the approved Highway 45 route and the factories located along Bulevar Independencia and Las Torres.
- U.S. government employees may travel to San Jerónimo only through the United States via the Santa Teresa U.S. Port of Entry; travel via Anapra is prohibited.
City of Chihuahua:
- U.S. government employees may travel to the city of Chihuahua within the below boundaries:
- Northern boundary: Avenida Transformación
- Eastern boundary: Avenida Tecnológico/Manuel Gómez Morín
- Western boundary: The city boundary
- Southern boundary: Highway 16 Calle Tamborel
- U.S. government employees may travel to Abraham Gonzalez International Airport and the factories (maquilas) outside this area by the most direct route.
- U.S. government employees may travel from Ciudad Juarez to Chihuahua City via Highway 45 with stops permitted only at the Military and Immigration Control Stations (KM 341), the Overlook (KM 342), Military Control Station (KM 315), the shops and restaurants on Highway 45 in the town of Villa Ahumada (KM 240-245), and the Military or Police Control Station (KM 32).
- U.S. government employees may travel south of the city of Chihuahua on Highway 45 to the southern boundary of Parral, including each town directly connected to Highway 45, including Lázaro Cárdenas, Pedro Meoqui, Santa Cruz de Rosales, Delicias, Camargo, Ciudad Jiménez, and Parral itself.
Northwest Chihuahua:
- U.S. Government employees may travel to the towns of Galeana, Colonia Le Baron, and San Buenaventura via Highway 10.
Nuevo Casas Grandes Area:
- U.S. government employees may travel to the Nuevo Casas Grandes area (Nuevo Casas Grandes, Casas Grandes, Mata Ortiz, Colonia Juárez, Colonia LeBaron, Paquimé and San Buenaventura) during daylight hours via Mexico Federal Highway 2, and then Federal Highway 10, or via the Palomas Port of Entry on U.S. Highway 11, continuing south until reaching Mexico Highway 2, turning west, and following Highway 10 to Nuevo Casas Grandes.
- U.S. government employees may stay overnight in the cities of Nuevo Casas Grandes and Casas Grandes only.
Ojinaga:
- U.S. government employees may travel to Ojinaga using Mexican highways and are required to enter through the U.S. Port of Entry in Presidio, Texas.
- Overnight travel in Ojinaga is permitted.
Palomas:
- U.S. government employees may travel to Palomas via U.S. highways through the U.S. Port of Entry in Columbus, New Mexico, or via Highway 2 and Avenida 5 de Mayo in Mexico.
- Overnight travel to Puerto Palomas is prohibited.
State of Coachuila: Reconsider travel due to terrorism and crime.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations. U.S. government employees may not travel to the following area:
- Northern Coahuila: Travel north of Highway 53 and Highway 23, from Boquillas del Carmen to the Coahuila border. The eastern and western boundaries follow the Coahuila state borders north to the U.S. border.
- U.S. government employees may travel to the following areas:
- Piedras Negras via the U.S. only through the Eagle Pass Port of Entry.
- Nava and Allende via Highway 57 from Piedras Negras only.
- Acuna via the U.S. only through the Del Rio Port of Entry.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Guanajuato: Reconsider travel due to terrorism and crime.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations. Gang violence in Guanajuato mostly happens in the southern and central areas. It is often connected to the theft of oil and natural gas from the state oil company and other suppliers.
- There is a high number of murders in the southern region due to cartel-related violence.
- U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents have been victims of kidnapping.
- U.S. government employees may not travel on Federal Highway 45D nor to the areas south of Highway 45D, including the cities of Celaya, Salamanca, and Irapuato.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Jalisco: Reconsider travel due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- In Guadalajara, battles between criminal groups have happened in tourist areas.
- Shootings between these groups have injured or killed innocent bystanders.
- U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents have been kidnapped.
- There are no restrictions on travel in the Guadalajara Metropolitan area, Puerto Vallarta (including neighboring Riviera Nayarit), Chapala, and Ajijic.
- U.S. government employees may not travel to the following areas:
- Southern Jalisco: May not travel on Federal Highway 110 from the state of Colima to the state of Michoacan, nor to the area to the south and east of Highway 110 to the Michoacan border, with an exception for Mazamitla.
- Federal Highway 80: May not travel on Federal Highway 80 between Cocula and Lazaro Cardenas (48989 – in the south).
- U.S. government employees may travel to the following area in southeastern Jalisco:
- Mazamitla: Travel via Highway 405 only.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Morelos: Reconsider travel due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents have been victims of kidnapping.
- There are no specific restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Morelos state.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Sonora: Reconsider travel due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents have been victims of kidnapping.
- Travelers should stay alert and aware of their surroundings while traveling in Sonora. Criminal activity and violence may occur in any area of Sonora.
- U.S. government employees may travel to: Hermosillo, Bahia de Kino, San Carlos-Nuevo Guaymas, Alamos, and Puerto Libertad.
- U.S. government employees must follow the below travel restrictions for Nogales, Puerto Penasco, Cananea, Agua Prieta, and eastern and southern Sonora.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
Nogales
- U.S. government employees may not use any taxi services, public buses, or ride-share applications in Nogales.
- U.S. government employees may travel to the following areas in the municipality of Nogales:
- Highway 15 corridor between the DeConcicini Port of Entry and the intersection of Highway 15 and Highway 15D. The Highway 15 corridor includes:
- The area south of the Council of the Federal Judiciary building on Calle Ochoa, between Avenida Alvaro Obregon and Adolfo Ruiz Cortinez, and to the intersection of Highway 15 and Avenida Alvaro Obregon.
- The area south of the intersection of Highway 15 and Avenida Alvaro Obregon, including Adolfo Ruiz Cortinez, and to the Donaldo Colosio Plaza.
- The Boulevard Luis Donaldo Colosio corridor between the Mariposa Port of Entry and the intersection with Highway 15. The Boulevard Luis Donaldo Colosio corridor includes:
- The industrial area east of Boulevard Luis Donaldo Colosio and between Avenida 5 de Febrero and F. Bustamante.
- Boulevard El Greco and the area northwest to Avenida Tecnologico.
- The area southeast of Avenida Tecnologico, between Highway 15 and Boulevard Luis Donaldo Colosio, and south to the intersection of Highway 15 and Boulevard Luis Donaldo Colosio.
- The Ignacio de La Torre Avenue de los Nogales Corridor between Boulevard El Greco and its intersection with Highway 15. The Ignacio de La Torre Avenida de los Nogales Corridor includes:
- The Guarnición de la Plaza Militar.
- The area between Highway 15 and Ignacio de La Torre Avenida de los Nogales.
- Highway 15 corridor between the DeConcicini Port of Entry and the intersection of Highway 15 and Highway 15D. The Highway 15 corridor includes:
Travel between Hermosillo and Nogales
- U.S. government employees may travel between Nogales and Hermosillo during daylight hours only and via Federal Highway 15 only.
- U.S. government employees may not use any taxi services, public buses, or ride-share applications.
- Travelers should be cautious and avoid unnecessary stops due to security incidents, including occasional armed carjackings.
- Shootings have occurred along this route during the day.
Puerto Peñasco
- U.S. government employees may travel between Puerto Peñasco and the Lukeville-Sonoyta U.S. Port of Entry via Federal Highway 8 only.
- U.S. government employees may not travel on any other route to Puerto Peñasco.
- U.S. government employees may not use any taxi services, public buses, or ride-share applications in Puerto Peñasco.
Cananea and Agua Prieta
- U.S. government employees may travel directly from the U.S. Port of Entry Douglas to Agua Prieta, but may not go beyond the city limits.
- U.S. government employees may travel directly from U.S. Port of Entry Douglas to Cananea on Highway 2 only. They cannot go beyond the city limits.
- Travel is limited to daylight hours only, with no overnight stays.
- Travel between Nogales and Cananea through Imuris on Highway 2 is not allowed.
- U.S. government employees may not use any taxi services, public buses, or ride-share applications in these cities.
Eastern and southern Sonora (including San Carlos-Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos)
- U.S. government employees may travel from Hermosillo to San Carlos-Nuevo Guaymas using Highway 15 and Highway 124. Traveling away from that route in the direction of Guaymas is prohibited.
- U.S. government employees may travel to Alamos by air.
- U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora east of Federal Highway 17 between Moctezuma and Santa Rosa.
- U.S. government employees cannot travel to Guaymas and areas south of Guaymas.
Level: 2 - Exercise increased caution
State of Agurascalientes: Exercise increased caution due to terrorism and crime.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- There are no specific restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Aguascalientes state.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Baja Sur: Exercise increased caution due to terrorism and crime.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- There are no specific restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Baja California Sur state.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Durango: Exercise increased caution due to terrorism and crime.
- There is a risk of violence inthe state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- U.S. government employees may not travel west or south of Federal Highway 45.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Hidalgo: Exercise increased caution due to terrorism and crime.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- There are no specific restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Hildago state.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
Mexico City (Cuidad de Mexico): Exercise increased caution due to terrorism and crime.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- Both violent and non-violent crimes occur throughout Mexico City.
- Exercise extra caution, especially at night, outside of popular tourist areas where police patrol more frequently.
- Petty crime occurs frequently in both tourist and non-tourist areas.
- There are no specific restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico City.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Mexico (Estadio De Mexico):Exercise increased caution due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents have been victims of kidnapping.
- Use additional caution in remote areas.
- There are no specific restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico State.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Nayarit: Exercise increased caution due to terrorism and crime.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- There are no specific restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Nayarit state.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Nuevo Leon: Exercise increased caution due to terrorism and crime.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- There are no specific restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Nuevo Leon state.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Oaxaco: exercise increased caution due to terrorism and crime.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- There are no restrictions on travel for Oaxaca City, Monte Alban, Puerto Escondido, or Huatulco.
- U.S. government may not use Federal Highway 200 between Pinotepa and the Oaxaca-Guerrero border.
- U.S. government employees may not travel to the Isthmus region within the below boundaries:
- Western boundary: Federal Highway 185D.
- Northern boundary: Federal highway 190.
- Eastern boundary: Oaxaca-Chiapas border.This includes the towns of Juchitan de Zaragoza, Salina Cruz, and San Blas Atempa.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Puebla: Exercise increased caution due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.
- Cartels that are designated as terrorist organizations are present in this state.
- Criminal activity and violence occur throughout the state.
- U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents have been victims of kidnapping.
- There are no specific restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Puebla state.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Queretaro: Exercise increased caution due to terrorism and crime.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- There are no specific restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Queretaro state.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Quintana Roo: Exercise increased caution due to terrorism and crime.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- Shootings between rival gangs have injured and killed innocent bystanders.
- U.S. citizens have been the victims of both non-violent and violent crimes in tourist and non-tourist area
- Pay attention to your surroundings after dark in downtown areas of Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen.
- Remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of San Luis Potosi: Exercise increased caution due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents have been victims of kidnapping.
- There are no specific restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in San Luis Potosi state.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Tabasco: Exercise increased caution due to terrorism and crime.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- There are no specific restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tabasco state.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Tlaxcala: Exercise increased caution due to terrorism and crime.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Vera Cruz: Exercise increased caution due to terrorism and crime.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- While most gang-related violence is targeted, bystanders can become victims.
- There are no specific restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Veracruz state.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
Level: 1 - Exercise normal precautions
State of Compeche: Exercise normal precautions.
- However, be aware that cartels designated as terrorist organizations are present in this state.
- There are no specific restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Campeche state.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
State of Yucatan: Exercise normal precautions.
- There is a risk of violence in the state from terrorist groups, cartels, gangs and criminal organizations.
- There are no specific travel restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Yucatan state.
- Review a map of restricted areas(opens in a new tab).
If you decide to travel to Mexico:
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
- Review the Country Security Report for Mexico.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information for Mexico.
- Whether you are a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Traveler's Checklist.
- We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
Updated to reflect the lifting of ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel.
Do not travel to Iraq due to terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, civil unrest, and the U.S. government’s limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Iraq. Do not travel to Iraq for any reason.
Country Summary: U.S. citizens in Iraq face high risks, including violence and kidnapping. Terrorist and insurgent groups regularly attack Iraqi security forces and civilians. Anti-U.S. militias threaten U.S. citizens and international companies. Attacks using improvised explosive devices, indirect fire, and unmanned aerial vehicles occur in many areas, including major cities. The Department of State requires U.S. government personnel in Iraq to live and work under strict security due to serious threats.
There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Iraq. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.
Demonstrations, protests, and strikes occur frequently throughout the country. These events can develop quickly without prior notice, often interrupting traffic, transportation, and other services, and sometimes turn violent.
Do not travel near armed groups or Iraq’s northern borders due to:
- Continued threat of attacks by terrorist groups
- Armed conflict
- Aerial bombardment
- Civil unrest
U.S. citizens should not travel through Iraq to engage in armed conflict in Syria, where they would face extreme personal risks (kidnapping, injury, or death) and legal risks (arrest, fines, and expulsion). The Kurdistan Regional Government in Iraq has stated it will impose prison sentences of up to ten years on individuals who illegally cross the Iraq-Syria border. Fighting on behalf of or providing other forms of support to designated terrorist organizations can constitute the provision of material support to a foreign terrorist organization, which is a crime under U.S. law that can result in penalties including prison time and large fines. Read the Syria Travel Advisory for more information.
Because of security concerns, U.S. government personnel in Baghdad are prohibited from using Baghdad International Airport.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Iraq. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices.
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Iraq.
If you decide to travel to Iraq:
- Establish a personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization or consider consulting with a professional security organization.
- Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
- Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them for identification purposes.
- Have departure plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
- Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
- Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return to the United States as planned.
- Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to contact you in an emergency.
- Review the Country Security Report for Iraq.
- Visit the CDC website for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
- We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage
Updated to reflect recent developments in Syria.
Do not travel to Syria due to the risk of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, hostage taking, and armed conflict.
Country Summary: The U.S. government suspended operations of the U.S. Embassy in 2012. Czechia serves as the protecting power for the United States in Syria. The U.S. government is unable to provide any routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Syria. Do not travel to Syria for any reason.
Syria has experienced active armed conflict since 2011. No part of Syria is safe from violence. Hostage taking by armed groups, terrorism, remnants of war such as unexploded ordnance, and aerial bombardment pose significant risk of death or serious injury. The destruction of infrastructure, housing, medical facilities, schools, and power and water utilities has also increased hardships inside the country.
The U.S. government strongly warns private U.S. citizens against traveling to Syria to engage in armed conflict. The U.S. government does not support this activity. U.S. citizens who undertake such activity face extreme personal risks, including hostage taking by armed groups, injury, or death.
There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Syria. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more. Parts of Syria have experienced recent increases in incidents of bombings, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and assassinations. Providing material support or resources to designated foreign terrorist organizations, including ISIS and al-Qa’ida (AQ) affiliates, is a crime under U.S. law that can result in penalties including prison time and large fines.
There is an ongoing risk of hostage taking of U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals throughout the country. In the past, U.S. citizens have been targets of abduction and detention in Syria. Those in detention may not have access to fair judicial process or medical attention. Current detention center conditions are unclear but could be harsh and unsanitary. Failure to obtain a legitimate entry visa directly from the Syrian government could result in detention.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) advising against travel to Syria due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Syria. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices. Read the country information page for additional information on Syria, including alerts related to the closure of airspace.
If despite this warning, you decide to travel to Syria:
- Visit our website on Travel to High Risk Areas.
- Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or power of attorney.
- Familiarize yourself with and respect local laws and customs. Foreign travelers may face increased risk of detention and harassment.
- Establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones. This is so that if you are taken hostage, your loved ones know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to be sure that you are alive (and to rule out a hoax).
- Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your loved ones to access them.
- Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones. This is so they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States. Review thoroughly this list of documents to prepare for your trip.
- Check local media for breaking events. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
- Develop a communication plan with family or your employer or host organization (if you are traveling on business). This is so they can monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. Specify how you will confirm you’re safe (texts, calls, etc.), how often, and whom you will contact first to share the information.
- Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
- Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
- Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
- Make backup plans to leave the country.
- Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and Alerts.
- Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
The advisory level was increased to Level 2. An area of increased risk was added. The advisory summary was updated.
Exercise increased caution in Thailand due to risk of unrest. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.
Do Not Travel to:
- Areas along the Cambodian and Thai border due to armed conflict.
Advisory summary:
Exercise increased caution due to civil unrest associated with ongoing insurgent activities in the Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat provinces.
Periodic violence between Thai security services and armed insurgents has been known to occur in Thailand’s three southernmost provinces of Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat. Seventeen districts in these provinces remain under a declared state of emergency due to ongoing violent conflict. There is a collateral risk of violence for U.S. citizens in Thailand’s southernmost provinces due to low intensity conflict.
The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these provinces as U.S government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to these provinces.
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Thailand - Cambodia Border:
Do not travel to areas within 50km of the Thai-Cambodian border due to ongoing fighting between Thai and Cambodian military forces.
There are reports of fighting, including rocket and artillery fire, between Cambodian and Thai forces along the border. Armed conflict has led to civilian casualties, and the Thai government has ordered the evacuation of certain areas. There is a collateral risk of violence, and U.S. citizens are advised to avoid all but essential travel to within 50km of these border areas until further notice. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these provinces due to the ongoing risk of armed conflict.
Read the destination information page for additional information on travel to Thailand.
If you decide to travel to Thailand:
- Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
- Review the Country Security Report for Thailand.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
- We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage..
The advisory level was increased to 2. The “unrest” risk indicator was added. An area of increased risk was added. The advisory summary was updated.
Exercise increased caution in Cambodia due to crime and landmines. Some areas have increased risks. Read the entire Travel Advisory.
Do Not Travel to:
- Areas along Cambodian and Thai border due to armed conflict.
Advisory summary:
Phnom Penh
Street crime, particularly phone and bag snatchings, occurs frequently in areas where foreigners gather; resistance can result in injury. Violent crimes, such as sexual assault and homicide do occur and sometimes are committed against foreigners.
Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Pursat, Siem Reap, Pailin, and Kampong Thom provinces
Landmines and unexploded ordnance are found in remote areas throughout Cambodia, and especially in Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Pursat, Siem Reap, Pailin, and Kampong Thom provinces.
Do not touch unknown metal objects; instead notify the Cambodia Mine Action Center at 012-800-473/023-995-437. Use a local guide when walking in forested areas or dry rice paddies in these areas.
Level 4: Do Not Travel
Cambodia – Thailand Border
Do not travel to areas within 50km of the Cambodia – Thailand border due to ongoing fighting between Cambodian and Thai military forces.
There are reports of fighting, including rocket and artillery fire, between Cambodian and Thai forces along the border. Armed conflict has led to reports of civilian casualties. There is a collateral risk of violence, and U.S. citizens are advised to avoid all but essential travel to within 50km of these border areas until further notice. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these provinces due to the ongoing risk of armed conflict.
Read the destination information page for additional information on travel to Cambodia.
If you decide to travel to Cambodia:
- Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
- Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
- Review the Country Security Report for Cambodia.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
- We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
Reissued after periodic review without changes.
- Exercise increased caution in Antarctica due to environmental hazards posed by extreme and unpredictable weather and limited emergency services.
- There are no U.S. government consular services available to U.S. citizens in the Antarctic Region. The closest U.S Embassies/Consulates are in Argentina, Australia, Chile, New Zealand, and South Africa. U.S. government resources in the Antarctic Region are committed to the U.S. Antarctic Program, per longstanding U.S. policy.
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Antarctica.
If you travel to Antarctica:
- We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
- Travel with a professional guide or organization such as those that are a member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, or, if organizing a private expedition, be self-sufficient and have emergency medical evacuation insurance.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
- Contact the Department of State’s Office of Ocean and Polar Affairs for travel information at [email protected].