Updated to reflect additional information on crime.
The U.S. Department of State currently advises against all travel to Haiti due to extremely high risks of kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. The situation in Haiti is exceptionally dangerous and unpredictable, making it unsuitable for travel, particularly for families.
Since March 2024, Haiti has been under a State of Emergency, reflecting the severity of the ongoing crisis. Firearms are frequently used in criminal activities, with common incidents including armed robbery, carjacking, sexual assault, and rampant kidnappings for ransom. Kidnapping is a pervasive threat throughout Haiti; U.S. citizens have been targeted, and tragically, some have been injured or killed in these incidents. Kidnappers operate with varying degrees of planning, sometimes meticulously pre-meditated and other times striking opportunistically at random. Even organized convoys are not immune to attacks. Ransom demands are a near-constant element in kidnapping cases, with families often forced to pay substantial sums, sometimes thousands of dollars, to secure the release of their loved ones.
Civil unrest is widespread and takes many forms, including frequent protests, demonstrations, and roadblocks that can appear with little to no warning. These events often lead to significant damage to public infrastructure and can quickly escalate into violent confrontations. Disturbingly, instances of mob violence and public assaults have been increasing, including vigilante actions against individuals suspected of criminal behavior.
The airport in Port-au-Prince is a particular hotspot for armed criminal activity. Armed robberies are common occurrences, and carjackers frequently target vehicles, especially those slowed or stopped in traffic. Lone drivers, and women in particular, are often singled out. Due to these elevated risks, the U.S. Embassy mandates that its personnel use official transportation for all airport commutes.
Land border crossings between Haiti and the Dominican Republic are explicitly discouraged due to the imminent threat of kidnapping and violence. These dangers are not limited to border areas but extend along major roads connecting Haitian cities to the Dominican border. It is crucial to understand that the U.S. Embassy cannot provide assistance to U.S. citizens attempting to enter the Dominican Republic via air, land, or sea. Furthermore, U.S. citizens crossing into the Dominican Republic at unofficial points of entry may face significant immigration penalties if they attempt to depart. The U.S. Coast Guard has also issued warnings regarding security concerns within Haitian ports. Mariners and passengers are strongly advised to exercise extreme caution when traveling through any Haitian port until these security issues are resolved.
The capacity of the U.S. government to provide assistance to U.S. citizens within Haiti is severely constrained. Local law enforcement and emergency services are often under-resourced and lack the capacity to effectively respond to emergencies or serious crimes. Basic necessities such as gasoline, electricity, medicine, and medical supplies are frequently in short supply across the country. Medical facilities, both public and private, are often understaffed, lack essential resources, and typically require upfront cash payments for services.
For U.S. government personnel in Haiti, stringent security protocols are in place, including a nightly curfew and a prohibition on pedestrian movement in Port-au-Prince. Travel for personnel is heavily restricted throughout Haiti. U.S. government employees in Haiti are also forbidden from:
- Utilizing any form of public transportation, including taxis.
- Visiting banks or using ATMs.
- Driving after nightfall.
- Traveling at any time after dark.
- Traveling without obtaining prior authorization and implementing specialized security measures.
For more comprehensive information, please refer to the country information page on the U.S. Department of State website.
If, despite these warnings, you decide to travel to Haiti, consider the following crucial safety measures:
- Stay clear of demonstrations and large gatherings. Never attempt to navigate through roadblocks.
- Pre-arrange all airport transportation and hotel accommodations, or ensure your host is there to meet you upon arrival.
- Be extremely cautious about sharing personal information with anyone who is not clearly identifiable as an authorized official, especially at airports where individuals with malicious intent may operate, particularly around immigration and customs areas.
- If you suspect you are being followed after leaving the airport, proceed directly to the nearest police station.
- Opt for vehicle travel to minimize time spent walking in public spaces.
- Travel in groups whenever possible, and avoid traveling alone under any circumstances.
- Always keep vehicle doors locked and windows fully closed while driving.
- Maintain a heightened state of caution and alertness, especially when driving through markets and other crowded areas.
- In the event of a robbery, do not resist. Resistance can significantly increase the risk of violence and injury.
- Secure comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage well in advance of your trip.
- Review detailed information regarding Travel to High-Risk Areas.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive important safety alerts and facilitate location in case of emergency.
- Stay informed by following the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter.
- Consult the Country Security Report on Haiti for in-depth security analysis.
It is essential to develop a detailed contingency plan for potential emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist to ensure you are fully prepared for any unforeseen events.
