The U.S. Department of State has issued a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” advisory for Haiti, highlighting the severe risks American travelers face in the Caribbean nation.
At a Glance
- Haiti is under a Level 4 travel advisory due to widespread kidnapping, crime, and civil unrest
- A State of Emergency has been in effect since March 2024
- Violent crimes, including kidnappings and assaults, are common and often target U.S. citizens
- The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to its citizens in Haiti
- Travelers are strongly advised to avoid all travel to Haiti and leave the country if already there
Escalating Violence and Instability
The U.S. State Department’s decision to issue its highest-level travel advisory for Haiti underscores the dire situation in the country. Haiti has been grappling with escalating violence, political instability, and a severe lack of basic necessities, creating a dangerous environment for both visitors and residents.
The advisory explicitly warns against travel to Haiti, citing widespread kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and limited healthcare infrastructure. These conditions have deteriorated significantly since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, leading to a power vacuum that armed gangs have exploited.
Rampant Crime and Kidnapping
One of the most pressing concerns highlighted in the advisory is the prevalence of violent crime, particularly kidnapping. The State Department warns that U.S. citizens have been among the victims of these crimes, with some cases resulting in injury or death.
The advisory also notes that crimes involving firearms are common, including robbery, carjackings, and sexual assault. Even areas once considered safer, such as the airport in Port-au-Prince, have become hotspots for armed criminal activity.
Limited U.S. Government Assistance
The State Department emphasizes that the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to American citizens in Haiti. This constraint is due to the dangerous security situation and the lack of adequate infrastructure.
U.S. government personnel in Haiti are subject to strict security measures, including a nightly curfew and restricted movement. They are prohibited from using public transportation, visiting banks, driving at night, and traveling without prior approval. These restrictions further illustrate the severity of the situation and the limited capacity for the U.S. to assist its citizens in emergencies.
Advice for U.S. Citizens
For those U.S. citizens who are currently in Haiti or who must travel there despite the advisory, the State Department provides several recommendations:
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive important updates
- Purchase travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations
- Avoid demonstrations and crowds
- Be cautious when traveling and keep vehicle doors locked
- Do not resist if confronted by robbers to avoid escalating violence
The situation in Haiti serves as a stark reminder of the importance of heeding government travel advisories and taking necessary precautions when traveling abroad. As conditions in Haiti continue to deteriorate, it is crucial for U.S. citizens to prioritize their safety and consider alternatives to travel to this high-risk destination.
