Situation in Haiti March 22, 2024

U.s. citizens in haiti, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Travel Advisory July 27, 2023

Haiti - level 4: do not travel.

Last Update: Updated to reflect the Ordered Departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members for Embassy Port-au-Prince.

Do not travel to Haiti due to kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and poor health care infrastructure. On July 27, 2023, the Department of State ordered the departure of family members of U.S. government employees and non-emergency U.S. government employees. U.S. citizens in Haiti should depart Haiti as soon as possible by commercial or other privately available transportation options, in light of the current security situation and infrastructure challenges. U.S. citizens wishing to depart Port-au-Prince should monitor local news and only do so when considered safe.

Country Summary : Kidnapping is widespread, and victims regularly include U.S. citizens. Kidnappers may use sophisticated planning or take advantage of unplanned opportunities, and even convoys have been attacked. Kidnapping cases often involve ransom negotiations and U.S. citizen victims have been physically harmed during kidnappings. Victim’s families have paid thousands of dollars to rescue their family members.

Violent crime, often involving the use of firearms, such as  armed robbery, carjackings, and kidnappings for ransom that include U.S. citizens are common. Mob killings against presumed criminals have been on the rise since late April. Travelers are sometimes followed and violently attacked and robbed shortly after leaving the Port-au-Prince international airport. Robbers and carjackers also attack private vehicles stuck in heavy traffic congestion and often target lone drivers, particularly women. As a result, the U.S. Embassy requires its personnel to use official transportation to and from the airport.

Protests, demonstrations, tire burning, and roadblocks are frequent, unpredictable, and can turn violent. The U.S. government is extremely limited in its ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Haiti – assistance on site is available only from local authorities (Haitian National Police and ambulance services). Local police generally lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. Shortages of gasoline, electricity, medicine, and medical supplies continue throughout much of Haiti. Public and private medical clinics and hospitals often lack qualified medical staff and even basic medical equipment and resources.

U.S. government personnel are limited only to the confined area around the Embassy and are prohibited from walking in Port-au-Prince. U.S. government personnel in Haiti are prohibited from:

  • Using any kind of public transportation or taxis
  • Visiting banks and using ATMs
  • Driving at night
  • Traveling anywhere between 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m.
  • Traveling without prior approval and special security measures in place.

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

The Haitian Ministry of Health and Population (MSPP) has confirmed an outbreak of cholera in the country.  

If you decide to travel to Haiti:

  • Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Do not attempt to drive through roadblocks.
  • Arrange airport transfers and hotels in advance, or have your host meet you upon arrival.
  • Do not provide personal information to unauthorized individuals (e.g. people without official uniforms or credentials) located in the immigration, customs, or other areas inside or near any airports.
  • If you are being followed as you leave the airport, drive to the nearest police station immediately.
  • Travel by vehicle to minimize walking in public.
  • Travel in groups of at least two people.
  • Always keep vehicle doors locked and windows closed when driving.
  • Exercise caution and alertness, especially when driving through markets and other traffic congested areas.
  • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
  • Purchase travel insurance and medical evacuation insurance ahead of time.
  • Review information on  Travel to High-Risk Areas .
  • 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  on Haiti.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

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Yes, for stays over 90 days. Foreign passport holders visiting Haiti must pay a tourist fee of $10.00 at the airport

None; however, review current COVID testing and vaccination guidance

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Port-au-Prince

Boulevard du 15 October, Tabarre 41, Route de Tabarre Port-au-Prince, Haiti Telephone:  +(509) 2229-8000 / 2229-8900 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(509) 2229-8000 Fax:  +(509) 2229-8027 Email:  [email protected]

American Citizen Services Unit office hours are 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Most routine services require an appointment; visit our Embassy webpage . The Embassy is closed on U.S. and local holidays.

Destination Description

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

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

The Government of Haiti requires all non-Haiti citizens age 12 and over entering the country to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, or to present a negative COVID test.   No COVID test or vaccination is required for travelers under the age of 5 .  

Requirement for Entry: Passport valid for at least six months from date of arrival. Visit the Embassy of Haiti website for the most current visa information.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions:   The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Haiti.

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

Safety and Security

Crime:  Embassy employees are prohibited from using public transportation and visiting certain areas of Port-au-Prince due to high crime. Political violence and violent crimes are common in Haiti, including murders, kidnappings, robberies, assaults, vehicle break-ins, and home invasions. Travelers are often targeted, followed, and violently attacked and robbed shortly after leaving the Port-au-Prince international airport. For this reason, Embassy personnel are prohibited from traveling in personal vehicles to and from the airport. Also, the Embassy has procedures in place to detect surveillance and deter attacks on its employees.

Labadee, a port near Cap Haitien in the north - only accessible by cruise ship passengers - has private security and lower rates of reported crime. Travelers should exercise heightened  precautions,however, due to increasing insecurity nationwide.

Safety Precautions:

  • Be careful about providing your destination address in Haiti. Do not provide personal information to unauthorized individuals located in the immigration, customs, or other areas inside or near any airports in Haiti.
  • As you leave the airport, make sure you are not being followed. If you notice you are being followed, drive to the nearest police station immediately.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • Keep a low profile.
  • Do not display signs of wealth, such as jewelry or watches.
  • Embassy employees are prohibited from visiting banks and using ATMs. U.S. citizens are often followed, attacked and robbed soon after withdrawing money. If you must use an ATM, select one that is out of sight from the general public (such as inside your hotel), and be cautious at all times.
  • Do not resist a robbery or car-jacking attempt. Criminals may kill those who resist. 
  • If a situation makes you feel uncomfortable, leave immediately.
  • Be aware: drug traffickers have duped travelers into transporting narcotics aboard on commercial flights.
  • Be aware: crime rates tend to go up during holidays, particularly in crowded street festivities.

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

Victims of Crime, Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault:  Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. Police investigations may not meet U.S. standards and forensic medical services are very basic. While rape kits exist in Haiti, there is generally no capacity to collect or utilize samples for police investigation. Report crimes to the local police at (+509) 3838-1111 or (+509) 3733-3640, then call the U.S. Embassy at (+509) 2229-8000.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

  • Help you find appropriate medical care
  • Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
  • Contact relatives or friends if we receive your written consent
  • Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
  • Provide a  list of attorneys in Haiti
  • Provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States  
  • In cases of destitution, provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support
  • Help you find hotel accommodations and arrange a flight home
  • Replace a stolen or lost passport

Demonstrations  occur frequently.  They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

  • Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
  • Past demonstrations have turned violent.
  • Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

No formal tourism industry infrastructure is in place on any level in most locations.  With the exception of Labadee, tourists are participating in activities at their own risk.  Emergency response and subsequent appropriate medical treatment is not available in-country.  U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.  See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage

Hurricanes:  Hurricane season runs from June 1 – November 30 in the Atlantic. Roads and bridges may become impassible. Poor rescue services and weak infrastructure hamper the government’s ability to respond to storms.

For information on how to prepare and respond to storms and hurricanes:

  • https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes
  • Haiti Météo website
  • Local media broadcasts in Creole or French
  • National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
  • U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency

Earthquakes:  Haiti is prone to earthquakes. For information on what to do before, during, and after an earthquake, visit  https://www.ready.gov/earthquakes .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws.  If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Prolonged pre-trial detention is common and prison conditions do not meet U.S. standards. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

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.

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.

Real Estate Investments:  Be highly cautious. Property rights are irregularly enforced. Clear title to land is difficult or impossible to obtain. Consult an attorney before signing documents or closing on any real estate transactions. Undeveloped land is vulnerable to legal and physical takeover. Absentee owners may be assaulted by squatters when trying to reclaim their property. Litigation and eviction proceedings can take years. U.S. citizens involved in business/property disputes are sometimes arrested without charge and can spend months or years in pre-trial detention, waiting for their cases to be heard. The Embassy does not attend property dispute hearings but, as above, can assist U.S. citizens who have been arrested.

Firearms and Other Weapons:  Possession of firearms, ammunition, and dangerous weaponry is strictly prohibited to any person, unless the individual has a Haitian license or has been specifically authorized by Haitian authorities.  In order to bring a firearm into Haiti, an owner must obtain written permission in advance from the Director-General of the Haitian National Police (HNP).  Contact the “Centre de Renseignement de la police”/Information Center (CRO) at [email protected] or by telephones at 509-3838-1111 /509-3837-1111/509-3839-1111 for additional information.  Travelers caught entering Haiti with any type of weapon, including firearms or ammunitions, will likely face severe penalties, including prison time. U.S.-issued permits allowing an individual to carry weapons are not valid in Haiti.  Visit the Department’s  Traveling Abroad with Firearms webpage .

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  

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  Anti-LGBTQI+ sentiment exists. While no laws criminalize sexual orientation or consensual same-sex conduct between adults, persons identified as LGBTQI+ may be targeted for harassment, discrimination, or physical attacks. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:   The law in Haiti prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities, but the law is not enforced.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States, however.  Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.  Businesses rarely accommodate persons with disabilities and Haitian authorities do not enforce laws mandating public access for the disabled. Sidewalks, when present, are frequently congested by sidewalk commerce and parked cars.

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

Women Travelers:   Domestic violence and sexual assault are unfortunately common and not always investigated or prosecuted consistently or vigorously. See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

The Government of Haiti requires all non-Haiti citizens age 12 and over entering the country to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, or to present a negative COVID test. 

Medical facilities, including ambulance services, are scarce and generally sub-standard, especially outside the capital. Life-threatening emergencies often require evacuation to a point outside of Haiti by air ambulance at the patient's expense.  Lists of doctors, hospitals, and air ambulance services  are available at the Embassy website.

There is no functional national emergency services line in Haiti. The Embassy maintains a list of emergency telephone contacts.

Ambulance services may not be reliable in an emergency. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance. Ambulance services are:

  • Not widely available and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.
  • Not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.
  • Often not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little or no medical equipment.

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.

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 insurance providers for overseas 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.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.  Check with the Haitian Ministry of Public Health to ensure the medication is legal in Haiti.

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)

Health facilities in general:

  • Public medical clinics often lack basic resources and supplies.
  • Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not always available.
  • Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.
  • Medical staff may speak little or no English.
  • Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
  • Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities.

Water Quality

In most areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.  Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

General Health Language

The following diseases are prevalent:

  • Chikungunya
  • Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets.  Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.
  • There are shortages of food, water, medicine, medical supplies, etc. throughout Haiti.
  • Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Haiti. 

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:   Traffic is extremely chaotic throughout the country and is frequently congested in urban areas. Lanes are not marked, and signs indicating the flow of traffic seldom exist. Roads are generally unmarked, and detailed, accurate maps are not widely available. GPS-based systems do usually work accurately, but the lack of road signage makes it hard to determine the indicated route. There are only a handful of stoplights in the country. Pedestrians regularly walk on the side of the road, and animals often dart into traffic. Even though driving is on the right side of the road, large potholes and flooding may cause drivers to swerve unpredictably and dangerously into the opposite lane of traffic. Speeding, aggressive driving, lack of traffic lights and signs, lack of right of way, unlit vehicles, and poor maintenance are the cause of many fatal traffic accidents in Haiti, as are overloaded vehicles on winding, mountainous and degraded roads. Motorcycles weave through traffic at high speeds. Driving under the influence is common at night. Traffic accidents are a major cause of death and injury, and extreme caution should be exercised. Those lacking knowledge of Haitian roads and traffic customs should hire a driver through a tour company or hotel. Heavy rains can cause mudslides and flooding that can quickly make conditions perilous. The Haitian government lacks adequate resources to assist drivers in distress or to clear the road of accidents or broken-down vehicles. If you are involved in an accident, do not expect medical or law enforcement assistance.

Public Transportation:  Public transportation consists of “tap-taps” (collective buses), private motorcycles for hire, and public buses and taxis in some cities or inter-city routes. Embassy personnel are prohibited from using any public transportation, and U.S. citizens are advised to avoid doing so due to the risk of crime. There is a significant risk of ejection in any accident, or even rough driving, due to lack of seat belts.

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Haiti’s Civil Aviation Authority as not being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Haiti’s air carrier operations.  Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Haiti 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 .

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 Haiti . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report. 

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Is it safe to travel to Haiti right now? What travelers should know

haiti travel level

The State Department is urging Americans not to travel to Haiti amid fresh gang violence in the country, which declared a state of emergency last week.

While neither the warnings nor violence are entirely new – Haiti has been a Level 4: Do Not Travel destination in State Department travel advisories since before the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse – a spate of recent high-profile attacks, including an attempt by armed gangs to seize control of the country’s main international airport, has sparked renewed urgency. 

“The current security situation in Haiti is unpredictable and dangerous,” the U.S. Embassy in Haiti said in a security alert issued Sunday. “We are aware that there are few or no commercial options to depart Haiti safely at this time. As they become available, we urge U.S. citizens to take advantage of them. The U.S. Embassy’s ability to assist U.S. citizens is severely limited.” 

The U.S. military stepped in to airlift American personnel “into and out of the Embassy” to augment security, U.S. Southern Command said Sunday in a statement to USA TODAY. The embassy is also coordinating assisted departure flights "through non-commercial means" for U.S. citizens, according to its website .

Americans in Haiti can fill out crisis intake forms and enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program program for updates. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Here’s what airlines and cruise lines are doing about trips to Haiti:

Haiti violence: Military airlifts American personnel out of embassy as Haiti spirals into violence

Are there direct flights to Haiti?

Three U.S. airlines typically operate direct flights to Haiti: American, JetBlue and Spirit. However, all three have temporarily suspended service and issued travel waivers for the Caribbean destination.

◾ American Airlines customers with flights scheduled to, through, or from Port-au-Prince (PAP) through March 25 may modify flights without paying change fees. Changes must be made by March 25 with the same origin and destination cities as the original booking.

◾ JetBlue Airways is waiving change and cancellation fees for travelers with flights scheduled to and from Port-au-Prince through April 15. Changes can be made through April 30.

◾ Spirit Airlines is waiving change fees and fare differences on travel to, from, or through Cap Haitien (CAP) and Port-au-Prince through April 15. Travelers should rebook by April 30. After that, the airline said change fees would still be waived, but fare differences may apply.

Is Royal Caribbean still going to Haiti?

Royal Caribbean and its sister line Celebrity Cruises normally sail to Labadee, Haiti , a private destination roughly six hours away from Port-au-Prince by car. However Royal Caribbean is skipping several previously scheduled stops, in coming days.

The following sailings will not go to Labadee.

  • Adventure of the Seas: 3/15 sailing 
  • Mariner of the Seas: 3/16 sailing
  • Explorer of the Seas: 3/17 sailing 
  • Oasis of the Seas: 3/17, 3/24, 3/31, 4/7 and 4/14 sailings
  • Symphony of the Seas: 3/17, 3/23, 3/31, 4/6, 4/14, 4/20 and 4/28 sailings
  • Grandeur of the Seas: 3/18 sailing 
  • Independence of the Seas: 4/4, 4/8, 4/18 and 4/22 sailings

"The safety and security of our guests, crew, and communities we visit are our top priority," a Royal Caribbean spokesperson said in a statement to USA TODAY. "Our Global Security and Intel Team is closely monitoring the evolving situation in Haiti, and in an abundance of caution, we are temporarily making adjustments to sailings visiting Labadee. We will continue to monitor and reassess calls as needed, and will communicate updates with guests directly."

As recently as March 11, the cruise line had not canceled any sailings to Labadee, but was keeping a close on the situation while noting that it had private security in the area, which was closed to the public.

It doesn’t look like any Celebrity cruises are scheduled there until fall.

Contributing: Nathan Diller, USA TODAY

Eve Chen is a travel reporter  for USA TODAY based in Atlanta. You can reach her at [email protected].

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Haiti travel advice

Latest updates: Safety and security – updated information on the security situation in Haiti

Last updated: March 25, 2024 17:32 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, haiti - avoid all travel.

The security situation remains volatile in Haiti. You should consider leaving the country by commercial means if you can do so safely.

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Security situation in Haiti

The security situation remains extremely volatile in Haiti.

On March 3, 2024, the government of Haiti declared a state of emergency in Ouest Department, including in Port-au-Prince, in response to gang violence and the deteriorating security situation. There are frequent clashes between gangs and security forces. Kidnappings, robberies, and violent crime are increasing.

A nightly curfew is in effect in Ouest Department. You must stay indoors while the curfew is in effect. There are exceptions for certain professions, including medical personnel and journalists carrying official identification.

While the state of emergency and curfew are in effect:

  • follow the instructions of local authorities
  • always cooperate with police officers
  • carry valid ID at all times and be prepared for various checkpoints
  • monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation

Your personal safety is at risk if you are currently in Haiti. You should consider leaving the country by commercial means if you can do so safely.

There are two international airports in the country which can be difficult to access due to the highly volatile security situation. The Toussaint Louverture International Airport is closed. The Cap Haitian International Airport is operational.

We strongly advise against any road travel from Port-au-Prince to Cap-Haitien, given the presence of gangs and a highly volatile security situation.

Avoid all travel to Haiti. If you are in Haiti despite this advisory:

  • shelter in a safe place until the situation has stabilized
  • consider leaving the country if there’s a safe means to do so
  • ensure that you have essential supplies, including food, water and fuel
  • ensure that your passport and other travel documents are up-to-date and secure at all times
  • limit your movements, if you are unable to shelter in place
  • avoid crossing road blockades, even if they appear unattended
  • allow extra time to reach your destination
  • be aware of your surroundings at all times
  • maintain a low profile when going outside
  • don't show signs of affluence
  • register or update your personal information through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and encourage other Canadian citizens in Haiti to do so

Declaration of the state of emergency – Ministry of Communication of Haiti (in French)

Departure options

Canadian officials continue to monitor and assess the security situation very closely and work in coordination with allies to explore options to help Canadians in Haiti.

Canadian citizens in Haiti wishing to leave should sign up to the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and should contact Global Affairs Canada's 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre to discuss their situation. An assisted departure operation will only take place if the safety and security environment allow for it.

Border closure with the Dominican Republic

On March 5, 2024, the Government of the Dominican Republic closed its air border with Haiti. Land and sea borders between the two countries remain closed to travellers.

The Embassy of Canada to Haiti, in Port-au-Prince, cannot help you enter the Dominican Republic from Haiti.

Crime rates are high in large centres such as downtown Port-au-Prince, where armed gangs operate, as well as near the border with the Dominican Republic.

The number of violent incidents has been increasing since 2020, especially kidnappings in and around Port-au-Prince.

There has also been an increase in home invasions. These incidents generally occur in middle-class neighbourhoods, but have increased in number in affluent neighbourhoods in Port-au-Prince and outside Pétion-Ville.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, also occurs.

Criminality increases in the periods leading up to the holiday season in December, Carnival in February or March and the beginning of the school year in late August or early September.

Foreigners are viewed as wealthy and may arouse envy. To avoid becoming a target:

  • don’t show signs of affluence
  • avoid using your smartphone or camera in public
  • be aware of your surroundings
  • ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
  • remain cautious with new acquaintances offering friendship or hospitality
  • never walk alone and avoid travelling after nightfall

Greater Port-au-Prince area

Several areas in greater Port-au-Prince continue to be dangerous due to criminal activity and kidnappings. Local authorities may have difficulties assisting during an emergency in these areas:

  • Artibonite Central
  • Carrefour Drouillard
  • Champs-de-Mars
  • Cité Soleil
  • Croix-des-Bouquets
  • Downtown Port-au-Prince
  • Portail Léogane
  • Road to the airport
  • Toussant Brave

Police presence is not guaranteed in these areas and your personal safety might be at risk. Due to the local environment, security forces may not be able to provide emergency assistance in due time.

If you must travel to these areas, it’s imperative that you take appropriate security precautions:

  • be vigilant at all times when moving about the city, towns and country
  • ensure that your local contacts know when to expect you and your travel plans within these areas
  • ask your local contacts to guide you in your travels
  • keep windows closed and doors locked when travelling by car
  • never use public transport of any kind
  • ask the organizations, institutes or hosts that are taking care of you about the latest updates on the region to which you are travelling, since the security situation can change at any moment
  • avoid going out after nightfall
  • follow the advice of local authorities

Pétion-Ville

Armed robberies occur regularly in Pétion-Ville. In most cases, armed thieves on motorcycles attack their victims in broad daylight. Attacks have been increasing, particularly against motorists. They usually occur in traffic jams during peak hours.

  • Be vigilant at all times while travelling
  • Keep windows closed and doors locked when travelling by car

Main highways and roads

Armed gangs have set up roadblocks to commit robberies and demand payments along Route Nationale 2 from Martissant to Miragoane.

Armed gangs are fighting to control the main highways connecting Port-au-Prince to northern departments.

If you must drive:

  • limit your movements

Toussaint Louverture International Airport

Thieves try to distract foreigners to steal their passports at Toussaint Louverture International Airport.

  • Be cautious when claiming your luggage upon arrival
  • Keep your valuables and identification on you
  • Have your local contacts arrange for your pick-up from the airport
  • Carry only small amounts of cash

Several shooting incidents have also occurred along the road to the airport. Gangs have committed armed robberies, particularly between Delmas 33 and the airport.

  • Don’t resist if you’re threatened by robbers
  • Be extremely vigilant when leaving the airport

Border with the Dominican Republic

The security environment is highly volatile at the border between Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

Criminal activities are widespread near the border with the Dominican Republic. Armed gangs operate along the border controlling many of the roads leading to the border.

Border areas with the Dominican Republic are subject to gang operations, including the following areas:

  • Ouanaminthe

Robberies in bank areas

Some criminals wait near banks, watching clients, and attempt to rob them when they leave.

There is also a higher risk of robbery from individuals using bank ATMs.

  • Be extremely vigilant when entering or leaving a bank
  • Only use ATMs inside a hotel or supermarket
  • Deal directly with a teller if you are at a bank
  • Avoid carrying large sums of money

Kidnappings are common in Haiti.

Kidnappers target both local people and foreigners, including dual citizens who live or travel in Haiti, regardless of rank or social class. Since September 2020, hundreds of Canadians and other foreign nationals have been abducted. Missionaries, aid workers and children can become victims. Most of the victims are released in exchange for ransom. In some exceptional cases, however, victims have disappeared or have been killed.

  • Remain alert to small groups of loiterers, especially near your residence
  • Keep doors and windows secure at all times
  • Instruct domestic staff to permit into your home only pre-authorized visitors whose identities have been verified
  • Keep all visitors under close scrutiny
  • Remain extremely vigilant wherever you are in the country

Demonstrations

Demonstrations and civil unrest take place frequently.

Due to ongoing political instability, some demonstrations have turned violent. Protesters have set up roadblocks across the country and blocked the access to the airport. In those circumstances, water, food and fuel shortages could occur.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

  • Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities
  • Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Women’s safety

Crimes committed against women frequently occur in Haiti. Reports of rape and assault against women and children have increased. Attackers sometimes act in groups.

Advice for women travellers

Service outages and supply shortages

Power outages are frequent, and shortages of essential supplies such as water and fuel occur.

Ensure that you plan adequately in case of outages and supply shortages.

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country due to:

  • narrow and poorly maintained roads
  • insufficient traffic signs, traffic lights and road markings
  • high rates of driving while impaired, with the vehicle’s lights off
  • poor vehicle maintenance
  • inadequate street lighting

Heavy rains can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

If you need to travel within Haiti, consider hiring a driver through a reputable agency or hotel. If you must drive:

  • always keep your fuel tanks at least half full, as disruptions of fuel supplies are frequent
  • always carry a cell phone and a list of emergency contact numbers with you, as roadside assistance services are deficient
  • keep in mind that cell phone coverage may be intermittent in some rural areas
  • avoid driving at night or in bad weather, even in the city
  • be cautious about abandoned vehicle beside the road
  • watch out for pedestrians and stray animals on the road

Public transportation

Public transportation is unsafe and unreliable. Drivers don’t always respect traffic laws. Vehicles are often in poor condition or overloaded, which leads to serious accidents involving injuries and sometimes death.

You should avoid all public transportation in Haiti, but most specifically trucks converted into buses, known as “tap taps.”

Ferry accidents occur and are often caused by poor safety practices or extreme weather conditions.

You should avoid ferry travel. If you choose to travel by ferry:

  • make sure the vessel you are boarding is carrying appropriate safety equipment
  • make sure that life jackets are provided for all passengers and accessible at all times
  • avoid boarding vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy
  • verify the safety standards of ferries with your tour operator

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Haitian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the expected duration of your stay in Haiti.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

  • Foreign Representatives in Canada
  • Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days Business visa: not required Student visa: required Work permit: required

Residency permit

You must obtain a residency permit if you intend to stay for 90 days or more. This requirement doesn’t apply to Canadians of Haitian origin.

If you plan to extend your stay beyond 90 days and are a Canadian of non-Haitian origin, you must apply to the Haitian Immigration Service before the 90 days have expired. If you fail to do so, you will need an exit visa to leave the country.

Canadian investors, exporters/importers and workers must apply to the Haitian Immigration Service for a residency permit through their employer for stays of 6 months or more. You must obtain this document before leaving Canada.

How to obtain a visa - Embassy of Haiti in Canada (in French)

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

  • Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
  • Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
  • COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

  • There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

  • Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

  • Vaccination is not recommended.
  • Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
  • Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre

* It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

  •  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
  •  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
  •  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.

Malaria is a risk to travellers to this destination.   Antimalarial medication is recommended for most travellers to this destination and should be taken as recommended. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times: 

  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.
  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
  • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing. 

 If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

  • Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
  • Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
  • Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.

To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions .

Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:

  • visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
  • visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring

Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

  • Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
  • Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
  • Minimize exposure to insects
  • Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

  • In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
  • Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
  • The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
  • Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

  • Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
  • Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

  •   washing your hands often
  • avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
  • avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Health care is inadequate throughout the country. There are few hospitals, and many are closed. Clinics and hospitals that are open are easily overwhelmed. Hospital services can be disrupted by gang violence

Ambulances are also limited and may not have the basic required medical supplies onboard. As a result, emergency response is not guaranteed.

Physicians and hospitals generally expect immediate cash payment for care even if you have proof of valid travel health insurance. You will have to pay the full amount of the bill before your departure.

Medications sold in Haiti may be of inferior quality to those available in Canada. Pharmacies may carry expired medications while some medications may simply not be available.

Bring a sufficient supply of medications for the duration of your stay.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Legal fees can be very high and judicial procedures are slow. Some Canadians have experienced an over a year detention period before being sent to trial. Prison conditions are extremely difficult. Penal facilities are overcrowded, unsanitary and under-resourced.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy legal proceedings, heavy jail sentences and fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Haiti.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Haiti, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Haiti.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Haiti by an abducting parent:

  • act as quickly as you can
  • consult a lawyer in Canada and in Haiti to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
  • report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

  • International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
  • Travelling with children
  • Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
  • Emergency Watch and Response Centre

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Haitian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

However, 2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

In order to fight insecurity, local authorities have temporarily forbidden to drive vehicles with tinted windows throughout the country.

You may use your Canadian driver’s licence to drive in Haiti for up to 3 months. For stays of 3 months or more, you will require a Haitian driver’s permit.

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Photography

People may feel exploited or insulted by being subjects of photography in poor or urban areas.

Obtain permission before photographing individuals.

Donations entering the country are subject to import rules. They could be seized and taxed in accordance with local legislation. This includes:

  • new or used material goods
  • personal care products
  • medications

Contact the Embassy of the Republic of Haiti or one of its consulates before sending goods to Haiti.

The currency in Haiti is the Haitian gourde (HTG).

Although all prices should be in gourde since March 2018, they are still often quoted in Haitian dollars (5 gourdes = 1 Haitian dollar) or in U.S. dollars.

Canadian currency is not accepted. Most leading hotels accept major credit cards. You can also use your Canadian bank cards to access funds from some ATMs, but the withdrawal limit is much lower than in Canada. Haitian ATMs are unreliable and you should not depend upon them in emergency situations.

Make sure to have sufficient cash in case you’re unable to access an ATM or use your credit card.

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to Haiti during the hurricane season:

  • know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
  • be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
  • stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
  • carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
  • follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
  • Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
  • Large-scale emergencies abroad
  • Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings  - United States National Hurricane Center

Rainy season  

The rainy season extends from April to June and from October to November. It can lead to severe flooding.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable due to mudslides and landslides. Bridges, buildings, and infrastructure may be damaged. 

  • Monitor local media for the latest updates, including those on road conditions 
  • Stay away from flooded areas 
  • Monitor weather reports 
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders 

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Haiti is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes occur. Tsunamis can also affect coastal areas.

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

In the event of an earthquake:

  • monitor local media for the latest information
  • Earthquakes - What to Do?
  • Tsunami alerts  - U.S. Tsunami Warning System
  • Latest earthquakes  - U.S. Geological Survey

Local services

In case of emergency, dial 114.

Consular assistance

Temporary closure of the embassy of canada to haiti, in port-au-prince.

The Embassy of Canada to Haiti, in Port-au-Prince, is closed temporarily to the public due to the unpredictable security situation. Consular services will be provided remotely.

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Haiti, in Port-au-Prince, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also call the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  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.

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Haiti up close

Is it really safe to travel to Haiti?

Boats at Ile-a-Vache, Haiti

Photo: Verdy Verna

One of America’s closest neighbours, Haiti has long been a source of fascination. American celebrities turned Haiti into one of the popular Caribbean holiday destinations in the 1960s and 70s, but this changed as Haiti suffered increasingly inept rule in the 70s and 80s. Decades of poverty, political instability and plain bad luck followed.

Is it safe to travel to Haiti?

Finally, after a decade of relatively peaceful democratic government, a tourism bounce-back has begun, and a new generation of tourists are discovering what makes Haiti so special. Haiti is becoming a sought-after experience for adventure-driven travelers, the culturally curious, and Millennials who’ve visited the Caribbean already and are seeking something different.

Since the 2010 earthquake, Haiti has been on the road to reconstruction. For several years, national icons lay in rubble and whole city squares cordoned off for repair, but the Caribbean nation is now recovering well. With tourism vital for continued prosperity, keeping visitors safe and satisfied is a priority for locals and government policy reflects this.

In fact, the 2019 Global Peace Index ranks Haiti at #87 out of the 163 countries on the list. According to the list, Haiti is more peaceful than many popular tourist destinations like Morocco, Brazil, Thailand, Kenya, the Philippines, Mexico, India and - interestingly - USA (#128).

Americans, Canadians and most Europeans can visit Haiti without a visa at all, making it a great alternative to Cuba . The Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index ranks Haiti very well when it comes to openness and value-for-money. Over the last ten years, tourism has doubled.

If you’re considering travel to Haiti, you probably still have some questions, so here are a few answers to help you before a first-time visit to the Caribbean island nation:

The current generation has grown up with images of Haiti suffering the effects of the 2010 earthquake , but the last decade has actually seen less political unrest, inequality and crime. Haiti remains poor, but it’s perfectly safe for visitors to walk around the cities on foot or travel across the country to see the many cultural icons and natural wonders , either alone or with a local guide.

As in any large city in the US, people visiting should take sensible precautions when in Port au Prince or Haiti’s other cities. But there’s no significant security threat, and it’s easy to find the parts of town safe for travellers to wander. It’s very common to see foreigners walking around unaccompanied in the streets of Port-au-Prince .

While political unrest can be a cause for worry, it should be noted that most of these events affect very specific politically active groups, not individual people going about their daily life, and certainly not foreigners.

Boat painter in Dame Marie

Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

How to stay safe

Traffic in Haiti is fairly unregulated, so it serves to look both ways, twice , before crossing any street. As in any big city in the world, pickpockets are out there, so make sure that you keep your belongings close and out of your pockets – preferably in a small bag or pouch you can carry in your hand, or across your chest.

Current travel advisories: The US consulate currently has a Level 3 travel advisory for Haiti (issued 11 June 2019), and recommends that travellers stay safe by changing currency in advance (so you can avoid banks and ATMs), avoiding demonstrations, not attempting to go through roadblocks, and booking official, professional transport from the airport to your accommodation.

School girls, Corail

Photo: Franck Fontain

How to stay healthy

From a medical point of view, Haiti is generally safe as long as you're reasonably careful about what you eat and drink. Although tap water is considered generally safe for locals and long-term expats to drink, visitors who are in Haiti for only a short while are advised to avoid the risk of short-term stomach upsets by drinking bottled water. It’s cheap in the cities and not always available in small towns and on the road, so stock up before you venture out.

For more on what to eat, check out our guide to the delicious and distinctive street food of Haiti .

Get vaccinated before you go: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A and Tetanus shots are all recommended, but depending on your level of risk your doctor may recommend a few more.

Woman in Abricot

Photo: Kolektif 2 Dimansyon

Should you hire a local guide?

Yes. Your journey to all sights worth seeing - whether cultural icons like the World Heritage listed Citadelle , or natural wonders like Bassin Zim , or adventure destinations like Pic La Selle - will be improved if you go with a guide. Guides will ensure your safety, help you find the best routes, keep hawkers and hustlers at a distance and explain the local significance of the sights.

Even if you’re planning to stay in the city, it’s well worth a guided tour at the start to help you get your bearings and put you in a better position to enjoy the rest of your stay solo, without worrying about the local dos and don’ts.

Keep in mind that the two common languages in Haiti are Creole and French - if you don’t speak French, a tour guide is even more invaluable for helping you find your way around.

Is there internet?

Yes. Wifi is widely available in accommodation and restaurants.

Are there hotels up to an American standard?

One of the best things about Haiti as a travel destination is that it’s relatively free of juggernaut five-star resorts that dominate the landscape in other more well-trodden Caribbean destinations. In Haiti, you can ditch the noisy crowds and find much more down-to-earth experiences of beachside paradise.

That’s not to say you can't find luxury - there are several resorts and mid-size hotels dotted around the cities and exclusive beachfront destinations along the coast. Within the cities, there’s a good selection of boutique hotels to suit your budget and style.

Airbnb is gaining popularity too, with dozens of offerings across Haiti’s major cities from art-filled family homes to free-standing villas where you can sip rum sours in your own infinity pool.

What are the travel restrictions for visiting Haiti?

Americans, Canadians and most Europeans can visit Haiti without a visa at all, as long as you plan to stay for less than three months.

Upon your arrival to the island, you’ll be required to pay a USD $10 tourist fee, before you get in line to go through Customs.

Visa requirements:

The list of countries of which Haiti requires a Visa is very short: Syria, Libya, Iran, Vietnam, Yemen, and Chechnya. If you are visiting from the Dominican Republic , Panama, or Columbia, just make sure that you have a valid US, Canadian, or Schengen visa in your passport.

Haiti allows foreigners to stay for up to three months, after which they need to regularize their status. If you are planning to stay in Haiti for a long stretch of time, make sure that you keep this in mind and book your travel arrangements accordingly.

People relaxing, Pestel

Why visit Haiti?

Haiti is home to stunning beaches, unique Creole language and cuisine, a proud heritage of hard-won freedom and independence , and inspiring historical attractions.

Haiti is also home to the Caribbean’s premiere art scene, with an abundance of galleries and artist-owned initiatives showcasing distinctive Haitian styles. You’ll find thriving artist colonies in Grand Rue , Jacmel and Noailles.

Haiti’s most iconic historic site, the Citadelle fortress outside Cap Haïtien , houses the world’s biggest collection of 19th-century cannons and artillery. The island’s compelling past is expertly displayed at some of the Caribbean’s best museums, including the Museum of the Haitian National Pantheon on Champ-des-Mars .

The culturally curious can catch the Thursday-night Vodou rock show in downtown Port-au-Prince, or witness the whirlwind of costumes, music and performance during one of the many annual festivals.

Throughout a history of amazing achievements and heartbreaking disasters, the people of Haiti have demonstrated incredible resilience, creativity and determination.

Don’t miss your chance to soak up some of this spirit and sample what this unique culture has to offer. Visit Haiti.  

Written by  Kelly Paulemon .

Published November 2018

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Haiti Safety 2024: Is Haiti Safe to Visit?

Susan Laurent

Haiti is nestled on the second-largest Caribbean island, Hispaniola, and shares its stunning scenery with the Dominican Republic .

There’s a lot to love about Haiti—the untouched rainforest of Macaya National Park , the mesmerizing Saut Mathurine waterfall, the enchanting island Île à Rat , the grand Sans Souci Palace , the hidden gem of Grotte Marie Jeanne underground cave, and the tropical haven of Cotes des Arcadins .

Unfortunately, beyond the scenic beauty, Haiti’s turbulent sociopolitical scene makes it a highly dangerous destination —political turmoil, criminal activity, civil unrest, and the highest travel advisory warning against visiting this country. Stay with us to uncover more about Haiti.

Is Haiti Safe?

Haiti

No, Haiti is not a safe destination for travelers. In imperialist times, Haiti was the most profitable colony globally due to its sugar and coffee trade. But, as usual, colonialism has taken its toll. Today, Haiti ranks among the world’s poorest countries .

Additionally, Haiti is still grappling with the aftermath of the devastating 2010 earthquake , which claimed over 300,000 lives and rendered 1.5 million people homeless.

Drive from Port-au-Prince’s international airport to the city center, and you’ll pass through slums where goats and pigs scavenge through piles of trash. Teens clean car windows in halted traffic, and hotels are guarded by armed personnel.

Why the armed guards? Well, there’s virtually no safe haven in this country. The threat of violent crime is very real and present everywhere. As a result, Haiti earned one of the lowest ranks in the 2023 Global Peace Safety Index , coming in at 129 out of 163 countries.

  • International travel advisories: Level 4 (Do Not Travel); violent crime and shortage of basic necessities are widespread
  • Crime rating: High, 77.88
  • Most dangerous areas: Artibonite Central, Bas-Delmas, Bel Air, Carrefour, Carrefour, Drouillard, Champs-de-Mars, Cité Soleil, Croix-des-Bouquets, Downtown Port-au-Prince, Fontamara, Jalousie, Laboule 12, Martissant, Portail Léogane, Road to the airport, Santo, Tabarre, Torcelle, and Toussant Brave
  • Public transportation safety: Passengers often fall victim to assault, abductions, and theft; official taxis are rare, buses are few, and minibusses lack safety features
  • Safety walking alone during the day: Low
  • Safety walking alone during the night: Very low
  • Road safety: Roads lack proper markings, some are closed, and others have large potholes
  • Beach safety: The safest beaches are located at the Labadee Resort ; take notice of the warning flags and keep an eye on your belongings
  • Tap water: Unsafe to drink
  • Common natural disasters: Earthquakes, hurricanes, and tsunamis
  • Carbon monoxide poisoning: Possible, a portable carbon monoxide detector is advised if you plan to travel
  • Police presence: Severely understaffed and may lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents
  • Medical care quality: Hospitals and clinics lack qualified doctors, basic equipment, and resources for treating patients

Travel Advisory for Haiti

Every international travel advisory echoes the same stark warning for Haiti—Do Not Travel.

The United States , the United Kingdom , Canada , Australia , and New Zealand travel advisories all place Haiti in the highest risk category— Level Four —and strongly discourage travelers from visiting due to:

  • Violent Crime: Travelers are at risk of being followed and violently attacked especially after leaving the Port-au-Prince International Airport. Criminals target vehicles stuck in heavy traffic.
  • Civil unrest: Ongoing political instability leads to violent demonstrations, roadblocks, and attacks by criminal organizations, impacting areas like Route Nationale 2 from Martissant to Miragoane.
  • Lack of police protection: Local police often lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents, particularly in Artibonite Central, Bas-Delmas, Bel Air, Carrefour, Carrefour, Drouillard, Champs-de-Mars, Cité Soleil, Croix-des-Bouquets, Downtown Port-au-Prince, Fontamara, Jalousie, Laboule 12, Martissant, Portail Léogane, Road to the airport, Santo, Tabarre, Torcelle, and Toussant Brave.
  • Poor healthcare infrastructure: Medical clinics and hospitals lack qualified staff, basic equipment, and resources. Life-threatening emergencies may require evacuation at the patient’s expense.
  • Severe shortages of basic necessities: Frequent power outages, as well as water and fuel shortages, are common. Tap water is generally unsafe to drink.
  • Natural disasters: Cyclones, hurricanes, tropical storms, floods, and earthquakes continue to pose a significant risk, with limited government capacity to respond effectively.

Given these substantial risks, it is strongly advised to avoid traveling to Haiti.

A Comprehensive Look at Haiti Crime Rates

Haiti has a high crime rating of 77.88.

Data from the Haitian National Police and the UN reveal a dire situation in the first quarter of 2023 —over 1,600 reported incidents. This is a staggering rise, as the number nearly tripled from 692 incidents during the same period of the previous year (Q1 2022).

The capital Port-au-Prince and its metropolitan region face the cruelty of approximately 150 criminal groups , many affiliated with the G-Pèp and the G9 alliance . Cité Soleil has served as the main battleground for rival disputes between the G9 and the G-Pèp alliance.

With violence surging in Haiti, people are witnessing a full-blown humanitarian crisis . In 2023 , nearly 200,000 people have been displaced, around 70,000 individuals are living in makeshift settlements, 31,000 live out in the open, and another 34,000 are crammed into classrooms.

The situation demands urgent attention from authorities, and a wake-up call for you, tourists, to reserve this destination for better days.

Source : Numbeo , 2024 data, based on 50 contributors

Police Presence in Haiti

The Haitian National Police force is severely understaffed and lacks the necessary equipment to tackle the country’s widespread violence and criminality. The force is pressed rather thin , with personnel dropping from 14,772 to around 13,200 in 2023.

If you happen to visit Haiti for whatever reason—despite the warnings of the authorities—know that police protection in Haiti is not guaranteed. If you believe that you are being followed in Haiti, be it after leaving the airport or anyplace else, prioritize your safety and go to the nearest police station immediately.

Public Transportation Safety in Haiti

Public Transportation in Haiti

Public transportation in Haiti comes with a host of challenges, and safety is a major concern.

Official taxis are a rarity, buses are few and far between, and the shared “tap-tap” minibusses, although commonly used, should be avoided as they lack safety features, the drivers drive recklessly, and are often overcrowded. Reports of armed robberies and abductions associated with public transportation raise serious red flags. Adding to the list of reasons to avoid public transport, bus stations are often chaotic hotspots for pickpocketing and scams.

Road Safety in Haiti

Driving in Haiti is not safe. Many roads lack proper markings, others are closed, and a great majority have large potholes caused by massive earthquakes.

If this weren’t enough, Haiti’s roads are shared spaces with animals that are rather oblivious to the concept of cars. In urban areas, encounters with smaller animals like pigs, dogs, and goats are common, while rural roads may lead to encounters with larger animals such as cows and donkeys.

Medical Care Quality in Haiti

Healthcare in Haiti is limited and inadequate.

Fontaine Hospital Center , situated in the heart of Cité Soleil—the most densely populated and violent area of the capital—stands as one of the last bastions for medical treatment. Ambulance services are limited, and they might not be well-equipped with essential medical supplies, so effective emergency response is also not guaranteed.

When seeking medical attention, visitors should be prepared for immediate cash payments, even if they have valid travel health insurance. Pharmacies might stock expired medications, and some crucial medications may not be available.

In life-threatening situations, be aware that Haiti may not be able to provide you with sufficient medical treatment. In such cases, evacuation might be necessary, and it often comes at the patient’s own expense.

Is It Safe to Travel Solo in Haiti?

Travel in Haiti

Travel advisories strongly discourage solo visits to Haiti due to a multitude of safety concerns, civil unrest, and limited healthcare facilities.

Solo travelers, in particular, are viewed as easy targets and might find themselves more susceptible to harassment and assault. Public transportation adds another layer of risk, as it’s both unreliable and unsafe, especially after nightfall. Until travel advisories change, it’s best to avoid solo trips to Haiti.

Perils of Nature: The Risk of Natural Disasters in Haiti

Haiti is at risk of a few natural disasters: hurricanes, earthquakes, and tsunamis.

Haiti lies in the Atlantic hurricane belt, making it susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms during the hurricane season, which is from June 1 to November 30 . On average, about five such events occur each year , with the most affected regions being southeast, south, and northwest.

The latest hurricane , Franklin , reached tropical storm hurricane status with winds up to 57 mph (93 km/h) on August 24, 2023, near Dérac. The most devastating hurricane season , however, happened back in 2008 when storms Fay, Gustav, Hanna, and Ike caused widespread destruction.

In case of a hurricane or severe storm:

  • Be aware of potential travel disruptions
  • Flights may be delayed or suspended
  • Adequate shelter might be limited
  • Port access could be impacted

If a hurricane is imminent:

  • Identify local shelters
  • Follow the advice from local authorities
  • Stay informed with updates from the US National Hurricane Center

Earthquakes

Haiti, located along the boundary of the Caribbean and North American tectonic plates, is susceptible to seismic activity. 

One of the most devastating earthquakes occurred in 2010 , registering 7.0 on the Richter scale. Lasting 35 seconds, it resulted in 220,000 dead, 300,000 injured, and 1.5 million homeless.

Tragically, that wasn’t the strongest one, nor the last one to devastate the nation. The strongest earthquake in Haiti occurred in 2021 , with a magnitude of 7.2 on the Richter Scale. It claimed 2,248 lives and triggered a tsunami warning.

To this day, earthquake-damaged infrastructure, including health services, roads, telecommunications, and utilities, remains a challenge. Water and sewerage system damages have contributed to increased disease outbreaks in Haiti.

In the event of an earthquake hit in Haiti:

  • Drop to the ground, take cover under something sturdy, and hold on until the shaking stops
  • If outdoors, find a clear spot away from buildings and trees, and remember to drop, cover, and hold on

Tsunamis are colossal tidal waves triggered by earthquakes or seismic eruptions beneath ocean surfaces.

The most destructive tsunami in Haiti’s history occurred in 1842 , reaching a towering height of 16 feet (5m) and claiming 300 lives. The 7.0 earthquake in 2010 also generated a tsunami with 3.2-meter waves , resulting in three fatalities. In 2021, following the 7.2 earthquake, tsunami warnings were issued for some Haitian coasts, though fortunately, an official tsunami did not occur .

If you’re near the Haiti coast and experience a strong or prolonged earthquake, notice sea-level changes, or hear unusual oceanic noises, promptly move to higher ground as advised by local authorities.

Tsunamis can strike within minutes of seismic activity, but if you register on the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System , you’ll receive a timely alert if a tsunami is approaching. Don’t wait for official alarms, act swiftly. Once in a safe location, stay informed through local media.

Beware the Silent Threat: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Haiti

Hotels and motels face a genuine threat from carbon monoxide poisoning. In Mexico City , three AirBnB guests lost their lives to carbon monoxide, and another group faced a similar fate at a Sandals Resort in the Bahamas .

Haiti hasn’t experienced such incidents with tourists yet, but it doesn’t mean it’s impossible.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible and odorless toxic gas. For instance, if your hotel has a malfunctioning appliance, like a stove, water heater, or heating system, the gas can leak into your room, slowly poisoning you.

Many hotels use CO detectors to keep guests safe from dangerous gas—but not all of them. It’s best to purchase a portable CO detector , especially if the hotel doesn’t have one or it’s broken.

Remember, if you get headaches, throw up, or feel sick, that could be CO poisoning. Get medical care immediately. Longer exposure to CO may have tragic effects, like paralysis, brain damage, or fatal consequences.

Serenity by the Shore: The Safety of Haiti Beaches

Haiti Beach

Considering the widespread violence in Haiti, some might think twice about visiting any of its beaches. However, if you decide to ignore the serious warnings, the safest beach to visit would be Labadee.

Labadee is a private beach resort on Haiti’s northern coast, owned by Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines and exclusively accessible to cruise ship passengers. The resort is well-protected, with trained security personnel ensuring the safety of tourists.

When hitting the beach, it’s a good idea to pay attention to warning flags:

  • Red Flag: High surf, life-threatening currents – Don’t swim
  • Yellow Flag: Potential high surf or risky currents – Swim with caution
  • Green Flag: Safe to swim
  • Purple Flag: Presence of dangerous marine life like sharks, jellyfish, or sea urchins – Swim with extreme caution
  • Blue Flag: The beach is recognized for excellent water quality, environmental care, and safety

Not all beaches have these flags, so it’s advisable to talk to locals or resort staff about the safety situation before heading out for a swim. Once there, remember the basics: wear sunscreen and keep an eye on your stuff.

Haiti Weather Patterns: What to Expect

Haiti has a hot tropical climate year-round. The average temperatures range from the high 70s°F (about 25°C) in winter to the mid-80s°F (about 30°C) in summer.

The specific temperatures vary based on the elevation, with slightly higher temperatures in inland plains and on south-facing coasts, and slightly lower temperatures along north-facing coasts.

The sunny and dry season in Haiti starts in December and lasts until April. January is the sunniest month, with clear skies about 79% of the time and very little rain, averaging 0.4 inches (about 1 cm).

The cloudy and wet season spans from May to November. September is the cloudiest month, with overcast or mostly cloudy skies about 74% of the time. The wettest days occur in May, averaging 5.1 days with 2.1 inches of rainfall (about 13 cm).

Haiti gets quite windy from the end of June to mid-August, with average speeds exceeding 5.7 mph (about 9.2 km/h). June is the windiest month, with an average hourly speed of 6.4 mph (about 10.3 km/h). This aligns with the hurricane season from June to November, increasing the likelihood of hurricanes during the windy months.

Conversely, the calmer wind period spans 9.2 months, from the end of August to May. October is the calmest month, with an average hourly wind speed of 4.9 mph (about 7.9 km/h).

The water is warmest from July to November, with an average temperature above 84°F (about 28.9°C). September has the warmest water, with an average temperature of 85°F (about 29.4°C), while February sees the coolest water, averaging 81°F (about 27.2°C).

Monthly Average Temperatures in Haiti

Source : WeatherSpark , 2024 data

When Is the Best Time to Visit Haiti?

Currently, there’s no good time to book a trip to Haiti. However, if the safety situation improves, crime levels drop, and international travel advisories give it the green light, you might want to plan your trip during the dry season, from December to April .

The dry season has several perks: escape from the snow or cold of the northern hemisphere, balmy weather perfect for beach time, and calm seas that are great for activities like surfing, snorkeling, diving, and trekking.

However, there’s one downside: December to April is also peak tourist season, making it a bit tricky and sometimes expensive to find flights. The busiest months are December and January, with Haitians living abroad returning for end-of-year celebrations with friends and family.

If you do visit during peak tourist season, book well in advance and do a little digging to find the best hotel deal.

How to Stay Safe in Haiti

By now, it should be clear that traveling to Haiti involves serious risks. If you choose to travel there anyway, make sure to follow these safety guidelines :

  • Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program . It’s a free service that provides real-time security information and maintains a connection between you and your government.
  • Consider booking a hotel room at the private beach resort Labadee . The resort is well-protected by trained security personnel.
  • Get all recommended vaccinations (for diphtheria, tetanus, polio, hep A., typhoid, cholera) at least one month before your departure.
  • Stay up-to-date on natural disasters . Monitor hurricanes at the National Hurricane Center , earthquakes on VolcanoDiscovery , and tsunamis on the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System .
  • Have someone meet you at the airport or pre-book an airport transfer. Never use public transport.
  • If you must drive, keep your fuel tank at least half-full , as the gas stations may often have limited supplies.
  • Dress modestly and avoid flashy displays of wealth , as you don’t want any additional attention.
  • Make and carry copies of important documents , such as your passport and driver’s license, in case of theft.
  • People may not appreciate being photographed in poor or urban areas , so seek permission before taking pictures.
  • Purchase a Digicel Haiti SIM card for reliable internet and cell service —you don’t want to be unable to contact emergency services (or your family abroad) while in Haiti.
  • Exercise extreme caution when using banks . Use ATMs only in secure locations like malls or markets and never in public spaces.
  • Avoid going out after sunset . If you’re hungry, consider using a food delivery app like Uber Eats , which operates in major cities in Haiti.
  • Violent crimes are common . Be extremely vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times. If someone tries to steal from you, don’t resist. Criminals are often armed, and resistance may lead to fatal injuries.
  • Seek immediate medical help if you’re a victim of violent crime .

Emergency Numbers

  • Ambulance: 116/ 3685-0717
  • Police: 114/ 3805-8888/ 3838-1111
  • Civil Protection: 4448-6571/ 3623-0303/ 4896-0564
  • Electricity: 2212-2212
  • Water Supply and Sanitation Directorate: 5959
  • Fire department: 2945-1111

Leave Your Haiti Vacation for Better & Safer Times

Who would have guessed that such a stunning country could be so risky? Unfortunately, life-threatening dangers make visiting Haiti a rather bad idea at present.

So until the situation improves, we strongly recommend heeding international travel advisories and not visiting this country.

If you decide to go despite the warnings, take maximum precautions. Upon arrival, ensure that no one is following you, as criminals have been known to observe people arriving at the airport and then following them with malicious intent.

Stick to the secure resort areas, arrange organized transport, never venture into high-crime zones, and stay safely locked in at night.

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Warnings and insurance

haiti travel level

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

FCDO advises against all travel to Haiti  

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

FCDO advises against all travel to Haiti due to the volatile security situation. There are currently no British consular officials in Haiti and our ability to provide consular assistance is severely limited and cannot be delivered in person in Haiti.

British nationals may get consular services assistance at our diplomatic mission in the Dominican Republic .    

If you choose to travel to or stay in Haiti against FCDO advice, try to avoid all crowds and public events, and take appropriate security precautions.

State of emergency

The government has declared a state of emergency until 3 April, applying to all areas in the Department de l’Ouest. Under the state of emergency, a curfew for citizens will run from 7pm to 6am every day until 26 March 2024.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and see support for British nationals abroad for information about specific travel topics.

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications  when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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US warns tourists ‘do not travel’ to this Caribbean destination

  • Updated: Mar. 15, 2024, 5:40 p.m. |
  • Published: Mar. 15, 2024, 7:09 a.m.

U.S. Department of State Haiti Travel Advisory 2024

The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 travel advisory, urging U.S. citizens not to travel to the island country as it is overwhelmed by political unrest, increased gang activity, violent crime, kidnapping and poor health care infrastructure. Canva

  • Katherine Rodriguez | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

The U.S. government has issued another travel advisory ahead of spring break .

The U.S. Department of State released a formal warning not to travel to Haiti and urged American citizens there now to leave immediately due to the rise in gang violence, crime, political unrest, kidnapping and poor health care infrastructure.

The Level 4 travel advisory comes after one of the country’s most notorious gang leaders, Jimmy “Barbecue” Chérizier, held an armed rebellion and forced Prime Minister Ariel Henry to formally resign on March 12 .

“Kidnapping is widespread, and victims regularly include U.S. citizens,” the warning added.

Many U.S. citizens, who have been kidnapped, were physically harmed and held at ransom, causing families of victims to pay thousands to save them.

Violent crime involving firearms is common, including armed robbery and carjackings. “Travelers are sometimes followed and violently attacked and robbed shortly after leaving the Port-au-Prince International Airport,” according to the travel advisory.

Protests and roadblocks, many of which become violent, occur often and are unpredictable. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services. Assistance falls on local authorities, like the Haitian National Police and ambulance services, but they have limited resources to respond effectively.

Also, the country has an outbreak of cholera , according to the Haitian Ministry of Public Health and Population (MSPP).

However, for U.S. citizens who decide to travel to Haiti, the U.S. State Department offers the following guidance :

  • Stay away from demonstrations and crowds, and avoid roadblocks.
  • Coordinate for your host meet you once you arrive at the airport or schedule airport transfers and hotels before arriving in the country.
  • Do not give unauthorized individuals, including people without official uniforms or credentials, your personal information in the immigration, customs or other areas inside or near any airports.
  • Drive to the nearest police station immediately, if you notice someone following you when you leave the airport.
  • Travel by vehicle to avoid walking in public when possible.
  • “Travel in groups of at least two people.”
  • Always lock vehicle doors and close your windows while you are driving.
  • Be cautious and alert at all times, “especially when you are driving through markets and other traffic congested areas.”
  • “Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.”
  • Before your scheduled travel, buy travel insurance and medical evacuation insurance.
  • “Review information on Travel to High-Risk Areas .”
  • Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • “Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) .”
  • “Review the Country Security Report on Haiti.”
  • “Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .”

You can find more information about the travel advisory, further safety guidance and U.S. Embassy contact details here .

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Haiti Travel Advisory: Haiti - Level 4: Do not travel

haiti travel level

Haiti – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Last Update: Updated to reflect changes to U.S. Embassy Port au Prince operational status.

Do not travel to Haiti due to kidnapping , crime, and civil unrest .   U.S. citizens should depart Haiti now in light of the current security and health situation and infrastructure challenges.  U.S. citizens wishing to depart Port-au-Prince should monitor local news and only do so when considered safe.

Country Summary : Kidnapping is widespread, and victims regularly include U.S. citizens. Kidnappers may use sophisticated planning or take advantage of unplanned opportunities, and even convoys have been attacked. Kidnapping cases often involve ransom negotiations and U.S. citizen victims have been physically harmed during kidnappings. Victims’ families have paid thousands of dollars to rescue their family members. Violent crime, such as armed robbery and carjacking, is common. Travelers are sometimes followed and violently attacked and robbed shortly after leaving the Port-au-Prince international airport. Robbers and carjackers also attack private vehicles stuck in heavy traffic congestion and often target lone drivers, particularly women. As a result, the U.S. Embassy requires its personnel to use official transportation to and from the airport. Protests, demonstrations, tire burning, and roadblocks are frequent, unpredictable, and can turn violent. The U.S. government is extremely limited in its ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Haiti – assistance on site is available only from local authorities (Haitian National Police and ambulance services). Local police generally lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. U.S. government personnel are discouraged from walking in Port-au-Prince and other neighborhoods. Only adult family members over the age of 18 are permitted to accompany U.S. government employees assigned to the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince. U.S. government personnel in Haiti are prohibited from:

  • Visiting establishments after dark without secure, on-site parking;
  • Using any kind of public transportation or taxis;
  • Visiting banks and using ATMs;
  • Personnel are limited only to the confined area around the Embassy after dark;
  • Traveling anywhere between 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m.
  • Visiting certain parts of the city at any time without prior approval and special security measures in place.

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

The Haitian Ministry of Health and Population (MSPP) has confirmed an outbreak of cholera in the country.  The MSPP recommends that individuals adopt public health safety measures, including hand washing and drinking potable, treated or bottled water.  Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

If you decide to travel to Haiti:

  • Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before planning any international travel, and read the Embassy COVID-19 page for country-specific COVID-19 information.
  • Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Do not attempt to drive through roadblocks.
  • Arrange airport transfers and hotels in advance, or have your host meet you upon arrival.
  • Do not provide personal information to unauthorized individuals (i.e. people without official uniforms or credentials) located in the immigration, customs, or other areas inside or near any airports.
  • If you are being followed as you leave the airport, drive to the nearest police station immediately.
  • Travel by vehicle to minimize walking in public.
  • Travel in groups of at least two people.
  • Always keep vehicle doors locked and windows closed when driving.
  • Exercise caution and alertness, especially when driving through markets and other traffic congested areas.
  • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
  • Purchase travel insurance and medical evacuation insurance ahead of time.
  • Review information on Travel to High-Risk Areas .
  • 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 on Haiti.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

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White House says US citizens told not to travel to Haiti, but Americans argue airport, embassy remained open

State department issued a level 4: do not travel advisory on haiti but kept embassy open and allowed flights to continue.

Caitlin McFall

The humanitarian crisis is worsening in Haiti

Fox News national correspondent Bryan Llenas reports on how 1,000 Americans are still trapped in Haiti amid crisis on ‘America's Newsroom.' 

The evacuation of U.S. citizens from Haiti remains ongoing, with roughly 1,000 Americans looking to flee the extreme gang violence, though many have questioned why the administration did not move to evacuate Americans sooner. 

The Port-au-Prince's Toussaint Louverture International Airport was taken over by armed gangs on March 4 after they first freed thousands of jailed prisoners, many of whom were gang members.

The series of catastrophic incidents occurred while Haiti’s Prime Minister Ariel Henry was away attempting to secure a security deal with Kenya that would ensure the timely deployment of 1,000 police officers to Haiti to help quell the gang violence. 

Woman runs from gunfire

A woman carrying a child runs from an area where gunshots were heard in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on March 20, 2024. (Clarens Siffroy/AFP via Getty Images)

AMERICAN FAMILY IN HAITI DESCRIBES ‘WAR ZONE,’ BELIEVES IT WILL FALL TO GANGS IN A WEEK

Many have questioned why the Biden administration did not step in sooner to ensure the safe evacuation of Americans who had become stuck in the rapidly deteriorating situation. 

White House national security communications adviser John Kirby pushed back on these questions Wednesday evening, pointing out that the U.S. has long advised Americans not to travel to Haiti.

"I think it’s important to note that we have had a ‘do not travel’ notice and advisory alert to Haiti in place since 2020 precisely because of the ongoing instability caused by the gangs," Kirby told reporters. "And we’ve been stressing that the United States government cannot guarantee American citizens will all be evacuated given the treacherous situation on the ground."

"That said, we have informed Americans who are registered with the State Department that we’re exploring various options to help them depart from Port-au-Prince and also from Cap-Haïtien," he added. 

gang violence in haiti

Violence in Haiti continues as gangs wreak havoc in Port-au-Prince in March 2024. (Project Dynamo)

Haitians and Americans alike have become trapped in Port-au-Prince following the gang takeover. The gangs are now believed to control not only 80% of the city, but also the roads and highways that have access points in and out of the capital, Fox News Digital is told by sources in Port-au-Prince. 

The State Department began the first round of helicopter evacuations for American citizens Wednesday from the capital to the Dominican Republic, where citizens will then be responsible for organizing their own transport to the States or elsewhere. Another 30 Americans were evacuated on Thursday, according to the State Department.

U.S. missionary Miriam Cinotti, 65, who has traveled back and forth to Haiti for more than a decade to provide aid, pushed back on the Biden administration’s argument this week that Americans were told not to be in Haiti. 

US NATIONAL SECURITY FACES MAJOR RISKS AS GANGS BATTLE FOR CONTROL OVER HAITI

"I’m an American citizen and America should be concerned where I am and come get me no matter what. You have an embassy here. You have planes fly in here. If it was so bad, don’t let them come," Cinotti argued. "But don’t do that, because these people need us.

"For someone to say, well I shouldn’t be here," Cinotti said, referencing the Level 4 travel advisory. "Well, yes I should have been."

Missionary rescued from Haiti

Project Dynamo evacuates American missionary Miriam Cinotti, 65, from southern Haiti, March 2024. (Project Dynamo)

Cinotti, who was stuck in a remote area in the south of Haiti for weeks, detailed the logistical challenges she faced when trying to evacuate the country before she was eventually airlifted out of the country by veteran rescue group Project Dynamo.

"Normally, where Project Dynamo works there's Americans that are left behind because the embassy is evacuated, the embassy closed, and in effect there is no embassy," Bryan Stern, who heads up Project Dynamo, said. "That's not the case here in Haiti. There's a couple hundred Marines and a whole bunch of State Department folks and all kinds of people sitting at the embassy right now."

Stern pointed out that his organization truly got up and running with evacuation assists during the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan after the U.S. embassy had shut down and Americans became stranded across the country. 

Project Dynamo has also assisted with evacuations in Sudan and in Ukraine, where the U.S. embassy was temporarily closed following Russia’s invasion. 

"This is not that," he said. "There are a lot of Americans with a lot of guns sitting at the embassy right now, and their instructions are ‘Don’t come here.'"

Garbage burns near dead bodies in Haiti

People burn garbage close to the bodies of the dead following an exchange of gunfire between armed gangs in Petion-Ville on the outskirts of Port-au-Prince, Haiti on March 18, 2024. (Guerinault Louis/Anadolu via Getty Images)

"That is a fundamental divergence of logic from a citizenship perspective," Stern continued. "Yes, it’s been a Level 4 for a long time and yes, the State Department said to leave. But the reality is the airport was open, American air carriers have been coming in here and, as we speak, the embassy exists, it's not closed."

"And yet there are Americans in trouble and stuck. That’s an important nuance compared to other places that we’ve worked," Stern said. 

Americans rescued from Haiti

Americans rescued by the Jack Brewer Foundation amid Haiti gang crisis on March 20, 2024. (The Jack Brewer Foundation)

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The embassy in Haiti has told Americans looking to leave to complete the  crisis intake form  so the State Department can arrange for their evacuation.

Other groups like Project Dynamo and the Jack Brewer Foundation are also organizing evacuations from Port-au-Prince and other areas across Haiti. 

"It remains a challenging environment," Kirby told reporters, noting that the Biden administration is watching the events in Haiti "very closely."

"The violence has been increasing, not decreasing, as well as the instability," he said.

Caitlin McFall is a Reporter at Fox News Digital covering Politics, U.S. and World news.

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haiti travel level

US travel alert: Popular cruise line stops visits to its Caribbean resort

A popular cruise line has stopped visiting a private Caribbean resort due to concerns about violence and unrest in the area.

AL.com reports Royal Caribbean has suspended calls at Labadee, its resort on the northern coast of Haiti, after the U.S. State Department issued a travel alert urging tourists not to visit the country. Haiti is at a Level Four travel advisory, alongside countries such as Russia, Syria and Burkina Faso.

“Due to the evolving situation in Haiti, and in an abundance of caution, we’re temporally suspending our visits to Labadee for our entire fleet,” the company said in a statement. “We continue to monitor and assess the situation with our Global Security & Intelligence Team.”

According to the RoyalCaribbeanBlog.com, Royal Caribbean has extended its itinerary change through at least mid-April. The cruise line will instead visit Perfect Day at CocoDay instead of Labadee, Haiti.

“We’re terribly sorry for the last-minute change – your safety is our top priority,” Royal Caribbean International’s Assistant Vice President of Guest Experiences wrote to guests sailing on the April 14 sailing of Explorer of the Seas, according to the blog.

The company said none of its passengers or crew have faced violence or threats.

According to the Associated Press, a do-not-travel alert was issued for Haiti in July 2023 after U.S. officials raised concerns about for “kidnapping, crime, civil unrest and poor health care infrastructure.” Later that month, the U.S. ordered all family members of U.S. government employees and non-emergency personnel to leave the country. American government personnel have been limited to only confined areas around the Embassy and are not allowed to walk in Port-au-Prince, use any public transportation, visit banks or ATMs, drive at night or travel between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.

Haiti is located on the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic sharing the island to the east. According to AL.com , the Dominican Republic is under a level 2 advisory with visitors urged to exercise increased caution.

US issues warning for spring break travel to popular Mexico destinations

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Is It Safe to Travel to the Dominican Republic Amid the Crisis in Haiti?

As haiti endures severe unrest and political upheaval, travelers may be wondering what the situation on the ground is like in the neighboring dominican republic..

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A small stretch of beach in the Dominican Republic, viewed from turquoise water, with sand, palm trees, and a few beach houses

Travelers flock to the Dominican Republic for its beauty, beaches, culture, and cuisine.

Courtesy of Jean Estrella/Unsplash

A new wave of gang violence is wreaking havoc on the streets of Haiti. Thousands of residents have been forced to flee Port-au-Prince, police stations have been set ablaze , and there is widespread call for the resignation of de facto leader Prime Minister Ariel Henry. Haiti is in the midst of one of its worst crises to date, and travelers may be wondering whether or not it’s safe to visit both Haiti and its Caribbean neighbor, the Dominican Republic.

For the past two years, Haiti has been suffering from widespread gang violence, which escalated in the aftermath of the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021. Most recently, the head of the G9 Haitian gang alliance, Jimmy “Barbecue” Cherizier, made a statement in early March that if Prime Minister Henry does not resign, civil war and genocide could be on the horizon.

The U.S. State Department issued a Level 4 travel advisory for the country last July and that remains firmly in place. Level 4 is the highest advisory level, urging U.S. citizens to avoid travel to the country altogether due to the possibility of kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and because of the country’s poor healthcare infrastructure.

While State Department travel advisories are often not the clearest indicators of whether or not a destination is safe, this time it would appear that travelers ought to proceed with extreme caution or, even better, heed the advice to the letter.

“I’d say that now is not the time to be visiting Haiti,” says Stephen Bennett, a Caribbean destination expert and cofounder of Uncommon Caribbean, an online resource for Caribbean travel. “The primary airports in the capital, Port-au-Prince, and Cap-Haitien, more than 120 miles to the north, remain closed, so flying there isn’t an option at present.”

However, Bennett confirmed that he feels it is completely safe to visit the Dominican Republic at this time and does recommend travelers keep their travel plans there. The Dominican Republic shares its western border with Haiti, although the border between the two countries remains closed with heightened security and border patrols.

The U.S. State Department last updated its travel advisory to the Dominican Republic on June 6, 2023. Since then, it remains at a Level 2 , which encourages visitors to exercise increased caution. Many other popular tourist destinations have also been ranked at a Level 2 advisory, including Denmark, Costa Rica, Turks and Caicos, France, Germany, Italy, and others.

Mark Chesnut, a travel writer who specializes in the Caribbean, just returned from a trip to the Dominican Republic, including to Santo Domingo, which is the largest city closest to the Haitian border.

“I have visited Santo Domingo and the [Dominican Republic] many times over the past 30 years and during my most recent visits to both Santo Domingo and Punta Cana, I didn’t feel any different about my sense of security,” he says. “On the Dominican Republic television, there is tons of news about the border, so I was more aware of the situation because of the news, but I didn’t have a sense of a different level of danger in the DR. The crisis was a topic of conversation among locals and hotel staff, but none of them warned about increased security measures. I didn’t feel any difference in safety related to that situation.”

Labadee, a cruise port in Haiti, with coastline full of green flora and clear blue waters

Prior to the current escalation in violence, Labadee was a popular cruise port in Haiti.

Courtesy of Patrice S. Dorsainville/Unsplash

Amid Haiti travel advisory, how cruise lines and airlines are responding

Haiti, however, is a different situation.

At present, JetBlue, American Airlines, and Spirit have canceled their flights into Haiti. Sunrise Airways announced on Instagram that it will operate special flights between Cap-Haitien and Miami beginning again on March 25.

Up until last week, Royal Caribbean still had calls to Labadee on the northern coast of Haiti scheduled into its upcoming itineraries. However, the cruise line has suspended upcoming calls to the port as of March 14.

“Due to the evolving situation in Haiti, and in an abundance of caution, we’re temporarily suspending our visits to Labadee for our entire fleet,” Royal’s assistant vice president Aurora Yera-Rodriguez said in a statement. “We continue to monitor and assess the situation with our global security and intelligence team.”

Royal Caribbean Group owns Celebrity Cruises and Silversea. The port of call in Labadee is a private port accessible only to cruise passengers and employees. It features a day-use resort with multiple beaches, a zip line, and other facilities.

Bennett says that officials at Sunrise Airways, which operates regularly scheduled flights throughout the country, have expressed hope that airports will reopen soon. Once that happens, Cap-Haitien, which Sunrise serves nonstop from Miami, will begin operations for visits to Haiti in the short term.

“The city’s proximity to several of Haiti’s top visitor attractions, combined with its extended stance from the crux of the tumult in Port-au-Prince should make it a viable option more quickly,” he said. He noted that the distance between Cap-Haitien and Port-au-Prince is further than the distance from New York City to Philadelphia, for a bit of perspective.

Still, an immediate solution feels far away. According to Human Rights Watch, the country is on the brink of “total collapse .” Criminal groups hold power in the country now and have killed more than 1,100 people since the beginning of 2024, reports the United Nations. Between January 2022 and early March 2024, 13,000 people have been killed, injured, or kidnapped. Thousands of women and children have been the victims of sexual violence, and hundreds of thousands of people are displaced.

According to Reuters, the U.S. and Canadian embassies have reduced their staff , leaving only essential employees in the country, and the embassies are temporarily closed to the public. For now, travelers are forced to alter their plans to visit Haiti because getting there is impossible. In the near future, should that change, deciding whether or not it is safe to visit will depend on how the situation evolves in the coming months.

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  5. 11 Best Things to do in Haiti 2024

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COMMENTS

  1. Haiti Travel Advisory

    Haiti - Level 4: Do Not Travel. O D K E N H U T C. Last Update: Updated to reflect the Ordered Departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members for Embassy Port-au-Prince. Do not travel to Haiti due to kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and poor health care infrastructure. On July 27, 2023, the Department of State ...

  2. Haiti International Travel Information

    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.

  3. Haiti travel: What airlines, Royal Caribbean are doing amid violence

    While neither the warnings nor violence are entirely new - Haiti has been a Level 4: Do Not Travel destination in State Department travel advisories since before the 2021 assassination of ...

  4. Alert-Travel Advisory Update (Haiti Level 4: Do Not Travel)

    Haiti- Level 4: Do Not Travel. Updated to reflect the Ordered Departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members for Embassy Port-au-Prince. Do not travel to Haiti due to kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and poor health care infrastructure.

  5. Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Port-au-Prince, Haiti (March 3, 2024)

    Stay alert in areas frequented by tourists/Westerners. Review your personal security plans. Have travel documents up to date and easily accessible. Carry proper identification. Assistance: U.S. Embassy Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Tabarre 41, Route de Tabarre. Emergencies: +509-2229-8000. Non-emergency inquiries: [email protected].

  6. Haiti

    COVID-19 Vaccine Deliveries. Since July, 2021 the United States has donated 1,086,340 safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine doses with the people of Haiti. This includes 318,240 Pfizer, 600,100 Moderna, and 168,000 J&J doses. Of the 1,086,340 vaccine doses, 94% were donated in partnership with COVAX and 6% were donated through bilateral agreements.

  7. Travel advice and advisories for Haiti

    Kidnappers target both local people and foreigners, including dual citizens who live or travel in Haiti, regardless of rank or social class. Since September 2020, hundreds of Canadians and other foreign nationals have been abducted. Missionaries, aid workers and children can become victims. ... The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally ...

  8. State Department raises Haiti travel advisory to Level 4

    The last time the State Department issued a Level 4 Travel warning for Haiti was on Feb. 7, 2019 when civil unrest broke out and forced diplomats and Haitians to stay at home. At the time, the ...

  9. Is it really safe to travel to Haiti? · Visit Haiti

    Current travel advisories: The US consulate currently has a Level 3 travel advisory for Haiti (issued 11 June 2019), and recommends that travellers stay safe by changing currency in advance (so you can avoid banks and ATMs), avoiding demonstrations, not attempting to go through roadblocks, and booking official, professional transport from the ...

  10. US State Department orders departure of non-emergency personnel from Haiti

    The order follows a travel advisory from the US Embassy in Haiti on Thursday, advising US nationals to leave the country immediately using commercial transportation due to recent armed clashes ...

  11. Haiti Safety 2024: Is Haiti Safe to Visit

    Travel Advisory for Haiti. Every international travel advisory echoes the same stark warning for Haiti—Do Not Travel. The United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand travel advisories all place Haiti in the highest risk category—Level Four—and strongly discourage travelers from visiting due to:

  12. Haiti: Travel Advisory Remains Level 4

    This replaces the previous Travel Advisory was issued on July 9, 2018. The full text of the new Travel Advisory is as follows: Haiti - Level 4: Do Not Travel. Do not travel to Haiti due to civil unrest and crime. There is currently widespread civil unrest and violent demonstrations in Haiti. Protests, tire burning, and road blockages are ...

  13. Haiti Travel Advisory: Haiti

    Haiti - Level 4: Do Not Travel. KUC. Last Update: Updated to reflect changes to U.S. Embassy Port au Prince operational status. Do not travel to Haiti due to kidnapping, crime, and civil unrest. U.S. citizens should depart Haiti now in light of the current security and health situation and infrastructure challenges. U.S. citizens wishing to depart Port-au-Prince should monitor local news and ...

  14. Haiti Travel Warning Issued by State Department

    If you're planning to travel to Haiti in the near future, the US Department of State is strongly encouraging not to do so at the moment. The agency has just issued a Level 4 travel advisory for ...

  15. Haiti travel advice

    If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. FCDO travel advice ...

  16. Alerts and Messages

    For travel to the United States on a temporary basis, including tourism, temporary employment, study and exchange. ... Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Port-au-Prince, Haiti (March 18, 2024) Message for U.S. Citizens: Upcoming Elections for Federal Office (November 8, 2023) ... Level 4: Last Update: Updated to reflect the Ordered Departure of non ...

  17. Haiti Travel Advisory: A Destination on High Alert

    The dream vacation to Haiti might have to wait. The U.S. State Department issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory for the Caribbean nation. More recently, they have been urging American citizens ...

  18. US warns tourists 'do not travel' to this Caribbean destination

    The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 travel advisory, urging U.S. citizens not to travel to the island country as it is overwhelmed by political unrest, increased gang activity ...

  19. HaitiChildren

    Do not travel to Haiti due to kidnapping, crime, and civil unrest . U.S. citizens should depart Haiti now in light of the current security and health situation and infrastructure challenges. U.S. citizens wishing to depart Port-au-Prince should monitor local news and only do so when considered safe. Country Summary: Kidnapping is widespread ...

  20. State Department issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory on Haiti but

    Caribbean White House says US citizens told not to travel to Haiti, but Americans argue airport, embassy remained open State Department issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory on Haiti but kept ...

  21. Dozens of US citizens evacuated Haiti on the first State Department

    Dozens of US citizens were evacuated from Haiti on a State Department charter flight Sunday, and many others have asked to be rescued as the Caribbean nation remains paralyzed by escalating gang ...

  22. Travel Advisory

    Travel Advisory. Do not travel to Haiti due to crime and civil unrest. There are currently widespread, violent, and unpredictable demonstrations in Port-au-Prince and elsewhere in Haiti. Due to these demonstrations, on February 14, 2019, the Department of State ordered the departure of all non-emergency U.S. personnel and their family members.

  23. Travel Warning

    The Department of State has issued this Travel Warning to inform U.S. citizens traveling to or living in Haiti about the lack of adequate emergency medical facilities, and the security environment in Haiti. This replaces the Travel Warning dated December 4, 2014 and provides updated information regarding the changing nature of crime involving ...

  24. US travel alert: Popular cruise line stops visits to its ...

    Haiti is at a Level Four travel advisory, alongside countries such as Russia, Syria and Burkina Faso. "Due to the evolving situation in Haiti, and in an abundance of caution, ...

  25. Is It Safe to Travel to the Dominican Republic?

    Level 4 is the highest advisory level, urging U.S. citizens to avoid travel to the country altogether due to the possibility of kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and because of the country's poor healthcare infrastructure. ... Amid Haiti travel advisory, how cruise lines and airlines are responding. Haiti, however, is a different situation.

  26. Haiti extends state of emergency as intruders break into key port ...

    Intruders broke into a major port terminal in Haiti Thursday as violence in the country escalated after the government extended its state of emergency. The Haitian government decreed the state of ...

  27. PDF The U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability 10-Year

    Haiti's low levels of domestic food production and reliance on imported goods make it particularly vulnerable to external shocks. According to the Humanitarian Information Unit at the State Department's Bureau of Intelligence and Research, Haiti is in the top 15 countries with populations facing acute food insecurity, with 4.5

  28. Haiti Travel Warning

    For Immigrant or nonimmigrant visa cases, please contact the call center at 509-2819-2929 or by email at [email protected]. Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

  29. Haiti: Travel Advisory Remains Level 3

    This replaces the previous Travel Advisory issued on July 17, 2018. The full text of the new Travel Advisory is as follows: Haiti - Level 3: Reconsider Travel. Reconsider travel to Haiti due to crime and civil unrest. Violent crime, such as armed robbery, is common. Protests, tire burning, and road blockages are frequent and often spontaneous.