Travel Advisory for State of Eritrea
This page provides a comprehensive comparison of official government travel advisories for State of Eritrea from multiple trusted international sources including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, France, Spain, Ireland, and Japan. Each government assesses travel risks independently based on their own intelligence, diplomatic relationships, and risk assessment criteria. By comparing these different perspectives, travelers can make more informed decisions about their safety and security when visiting State of Eritrea.
The information below is aggregated from official government sources and analyzed to provide you with a unified view of the current travel situation. Last updated: 2026-04-12
AdvisoryAtlas.com Risk Level
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Range: Level 3 to Level 4
AdvisoryAtlas.com Safety Index
20
Safety Index Score
Overview
Eritrea is designated for avoiding non-essential travel by multiple advisories, with border regions explicitly marked as "Do Not Travel" due to ongoing conflicts and landmine risks. Travelers face significant administrative hurdles including strict travel permit requirements outside the capital, limited consular assistance, and the risk of wrongful detention.
Detailed Advisory Summary
Eritrea presents a complex and high-risk environment for international travelers, primarily due to persistent regional tensions, stringent internal travel restrictions, and a developing infrastructure. The country's borders with Ethiopia, Sudan, and Djibouti are heavily militarized and prone to conflict, with extensive unmarked minefields posing a severe danger, making travel to these areas strictly advised against. Within the country, all foreign nationals, including diplomats, are required to obtain government-issued travel permits for any movement beyond 25 km outside Asmara, a process that can be lengthy and often results in denied requests, severely limiting exploration and consular access outside the capital.
Security concerns extend to the potential for wrongful detentions of foreign nationals, particularly dual citizens, with limited or no notification to their respective embassies. While petty crime like pickpocketing occurs, especially after dark or in crowded areas, more serious banditry is reported in border and coastal regions. The local economy is exclusively cash-based, lacking ATMs and credit card acceptance, and strict rules govern foreign currency declaration and exchange, with severe penalties for non-compliance. Telecommunication and internet services are notoriously unreliable, restricted, and monitored, making digital connectivity challenging.
Health infrastructure is critically underdeveloped, with medical facilities not meeting international standards and a scarcity of essential medicines. Travelers are strongly advised to secure comprehensive medical evacuation insurance and to consult health professionals regarding recommended vaccinations for various prevalent diseases, including malaria, yellow fever, and dengue. Cultural norms are conservative, and local laws are strictly enforced, notably criminalizing same-sex sexual activity and prohibiting photography of government or military installations. Overall, a trip to Eritrea demands meticulous planning, a high degree of vigilance, and an acceptance of significant limitations on personal freedom and access to services.
Security concerns extend to the potential for wrongful detentions of foreign nationals, particularly dual citizens, with limited or no notification to their respective embassies. While petty crime like pickpocketing occurs, especially after dark or in crowded areas, more serious banditry is reported in border and coastal regions. The local economy is exclusively cash-based, lacking ATMs and credit card acceptance, and strict rules govern foreign currency declaration and exchange, with severe penalties for non-compliance. Telecommunication and internet services are notoriously unreliable, restricted, and monitored, making digital connectivity challenging.
Health infrastructure is critically underdeveloped, with medical facilities not meeting international standards and a scarcity of essential medicines. Travelers are strongly advised to secure comprehensive medical evacuation insurance and to consult health professionals regarding recommended vaccinations for various prevalent diseases, including malaria, yellow fever, and dengue. Cultural norms are conservative, and local laws are strictly enforced, notably criminalizing same-sex sexual activity and prohibiting photography of government or military installations. Overall, a trip to Eritrea demands meticulous planning, a high degree of vigilance, and an acceptance of significant limitations on personal freedom and access to services.
Risk Level Summary by Government Source
| Source | Risk Level | Updated | Official Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global Affairs Canada | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-04-07 | View Source → |
| U.S. Department of State | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-04-10 | View Source → |
| Ministère des Affaires Étrangères | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-04-17 | View Source → |
| Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-02-24 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-02-25 | View Source → |
| Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-02-24 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland) | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-02-24 | View Source → |
| Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-03-23 | View Source → |
| New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-02-27 | View Source → |
| Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-02-23 | View Source → |
| Regjeringen (Norway) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-03-04 | View Source → |
| Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-04-17 | View Source → |
| Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-03-03 | View Source → |
| BMEIA (Austria) | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-03-02 | View Source → |
| 0404 (Korea) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-03-06 | View Source → |
| Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-03-04 | View Source → |
Safety and Security Analysis
Vaccination Information
Required Vaccines
- Yellow Fever: Required if coming from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Recommended for Most Travelers
- Routine vaccines: Ensure all routine vaccinations (e.g., measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella, meningococcal disease, seasonal flu) are up-to-date.
- Hepatitis A: Recommended for all travelers to areas where hepatitis A is present.
- Hepatitis B: Recommended for all travelers, especially those with potential exposure to blood or body fluids.
- Typhoid: Recommended for travelers to regions with a risk of typhoid, particularly those exposed to poor sanitation.
Recommended for Some Travelers
- Rabies: Recommended for travelers at high risk of exposure (e.g., children, rural areas, adventure travelers, close contact with animals).
- Chikungunya: Vaccination may be recommended in case of epidemic or prolonged stay.
- Dengue: Vaccination may be recommended in case of active epidemic or prolonged stay in endemic zones.
- Meningococcal ACWY: Recommended for travelers in the African Meningitis Belt, especially during the dry season (November to June) or in crowded areas.
- Tuberculosis: Recommended for children under 15 in case of frequent or prolonged stays.
Medical facilities in Eritrea are not up to international standards and medical supplies can be limited. A cash deposit or upfront payment is typically required for treatment. Comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation and hospital stays is strongly recommended. The high altitude of Asmara (2,400 meters) can cause altitude sickness; avoid strenuous activity and excessive alcohol until acclimatized. Practice safe food and water precautions diligently, consuming only boiled or bottled water and avoiding raw or undercooked foods. Be aware of frequent power outages that may affect essential services.
Visa Information
Visa Types
| Type | Requirement | Stay Limit | Cost | Conditions | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist | Embassy | Varies (often 1 month, renewable) | 5,000 JPY (single entry) / Check Embassy | Letter of invitation may be needed; physical presence required for application. |
|
| Business | Embassy | Varies (often 1 month, renewable) | Check Embassy | Letter from company stating purpose/duration; letter of invitation required. |
|
| Official | Embassy | Check Embassy | Check Embassy | Specific official documentation required. | — |
| In-transit | Embassy | Check Embassy | Check Embassy | Proof of onward travel may be required. | — |
| Work | Embassy | Check Embassy | Check Embassy | Must secure work permit before entry; restrictive legislation since 2004. | — |
| Press | Embassy | Check Embassy | Check Embassy | Solicited directly through embassies/consulates; specific recommendations from relevant authorities. | — |
Entry & Legal Compliance
- Passport Validity Needed: 6 months beyond intended departure date
- Blank Pages Required: 2
- Dual Citizenship Policy: Not Recognized
- Proof Of Onward Travel: Required by authorities (AT)
- Currency Limit Declaration: Over US$10,000 or equivalent
- Drone Usage Law: Strictly prohibited
Emergency Contacts
- Police: 113 (CA, AU, JP)
- Police: +291 1 127799 (US, AT, IT, JP)
- Medical Assistance: 114 (CA, AU)
- Medical Assistance (Orotta Hospital): +291 1 202914 / +291 1 201917 / +291 1 201606 (US, AT, IT, JP)
- Medical Assistance (Halibet Hospital): +291 1 185400 (US, IT)
- Firefighters: 116 (CA, AU)
- Firefighters: +291 1 202099 (US, AT, IT, JP)
- Consular Assistance (Canada - Asmara): +291 1 181855 / +291 1 186490
- Consular Assistance (Canada - Emergency, Addis Ababa): +251 116 170 100
- Consular Assistance (France - Asmara, office hours): +291 1 182875
- Consular Assistance (France - Asmara, after hours): +291 7 893 681 / +291 7 869 908
- Consular Assistance (US - Asmara): +291 1 120004
- Consular Assistance (UK - Emergency, Addis Ababa): +251 116 170 100
- Consular Assistance (UK - Emergency, London): +44 207 008 5000
- Consular Assistance (Ireland - Nairobi, Kenya): +254 020 513 5300
- Consular Assistance (Australia - Cairo, Egypt): +20 2 2770 6600
- Consular Assistance (Australia - Emergency Centre): +61 2 6261 3305
- Consular Assistance (Japan - Asmara): +291 113 516
- Consular Assistance (Italy - Asmara): +291 1 120160
- Consular Assistance (Italy - Asmara, Cell Emergency): +291 7499923
- Consular Assistance (Austria - Asmara Honorary Consul): +291 1 111530 / +291 1 119764
- Consular Assistance (Netherlands - Contact Center): +31 247 247 247
Common Scams & Tourist Traps
- Be wary of international financial scams, which are a global threat and can target travelers.
- Exercise extreme caution with drinks and food, as drink spiking and methanol poisoning have been reported in various overseas destinations.
- Be alert to special fraud cases and international romance scams, which can target individuals through various communication channels.
Cultural Etiquette in State of Eritrea
Do
- Dress conservatively, especially in regions with a Muslim majority, to respect local sensitivities.
- Behave discretely and respect religious and social traditions, particularly during periods like Ramadan.
- Always ask for permission before photographing individuals or any government buildings, military sites, or uniformed personnel.
Don't
- Do not show signs of affluence or wear expensive jewelry, as this may attract unwanted attention.
- Avoid carrying large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily, and keep personal belongings in a secure place.
- Do not engage in public displays of affection, as this can offend local sensitivities.
- Never photograph government buildings, military installations, airports, or uniformed service members, as this is strictly prohibited and can lead to confiscation or detention.
- Do not criticize the government or engage in anti-government rhetoric, as political activities are severely restricted and can lead to detention.
Advisory Comparison by Government Source
Global Affairs Canada
Updated: 2026-04-07
Canada advises against non-essential travel to Eritrea, citing ongoing tensions with neighboring countries and the risk of conflict. A strict "avoid all travel" advisory is in place for areas within 25 km of all border regions due to territorial disputes, military activity, and crime. The advisory highlights the uncertain security situation along the borders with Ethiopia and Sudan despite peace agreements, emphasizing the potential for additional security measures and the presence of unmarked landmines.
Key concerns include the threat of terrorism in public places, infrequent but present petty crime in urban areas, and more common crime and banditry in border and coastal areas. Travelers are warned about unreliable telecommunications and power outages, poor road safety, and the mandatory requirement for government-issued travel permits for any movement beyond 25 km outside Asmara. Dual citizens are particularly cautioned about mandatory military service and the non-recognition of dual citizenship, which limits consular assistance.
Key concerns include the threat of terrorism in public places, infrequent but present petty crime in urban areas, and more common crime and banditry in border and coastal areas. Travelers are warned about unreliable telecommunications and power outages, poor road safety, and the mandatory requirement for government-issued travel permits for any movement beyond 25 km outside Asmara. Dual citizens are particularly cautioned about mandatory military service and the non-recognition of dual citizenship, which limits consular assistance.
U.S. Department of State
Updated: 2026-04-10
The U.S. State Department issues a Level 2 advisory for Eritrea: "Exercise Increased Caution," specifically due to travel restrictions, limited consular assistance, landmines, and wrongful detentions. It explicitly states that the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services outside Asmara because its employees need special authorization to travel. A significant warning is issued regarding U.S. citizens, especially dual nationals, being arrested and detained without charge or on false charges, with Eritrean officials routinely blocking access to foreign detainees.
The advisory details the widespread presence of landmines in many remote areas, particularly near borders and specific towns. It outlines strict entry requirements, including a visa obtained prior to travel, a yellow fever vaccination certificate, and the declaration of all electronic items and foreign currency over US$10,000. Dual U.S.-Eritrean nationals are warned about the non-recognition of dual nationality, potential mandatory military service, and the requirement for an exit visa which can cause significant delays or denial of departure. The advisory also mentions frequent water and fuel shortages, poor road conditions, and the illegality of same-sex sexual activity.
The advisory details the widespread presence of landmines in many remote areas, particularly near borders and specific towns. It outlines strict entry requirements, including a visa obtained prior to travel, a yellow fever vaccination certificate, and the declaration of all electronic items and foreign currency over US$10,000. Dual U.S.-Eritrean nationals are warned about the non-recognition of dual nationality, potential mandatory military service, and the requirement for an exit visa which can cause significant delays or denial of departure. The advisory also mentions frequent water and fuel shortages, poor road conditions, and the illegality of same-sex sexual activity.
Ministère des Affaires Étrangères
Updated: 2026-04-17
France advises against travel to Eritrea, categorizing areas outside Asmara as "discouraged except for imperative reasons" and border zones as "formally discouraged" due to armed groups and landmines. The Danakil desert is specifically highlighted as a high-risk area. A crucial point is that consular assistance outside Asmara is severely limited because French diplomatic staff also require travel permits, which are not always granted quickly.
Travelers are informed that Eritrean authorities do not always notify embassies in case of an arrest, and consular access to detainees is very restricted. The advisory details strict entry requirements, including mandatory visas obtained in advance and the declaration of all electronic devices and foreign currency exceeding US$10,000. It also notes the closure of all land borders with Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Sudan, and warns against taking more than 500 Nakfa out of the country, with potential for confiscation.
Travelers are informed that Eritrean authorities do not always notify embassies in case of an arrest, and consular access to detainees is very restricted. The advisory details strict entry requirements, including mandatory visas obtained in advance and the declaration of all electronic devices and foreign currency exceeding US$10,000. It also notes the closure of all land borders with Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Sudan, and warns against taking more than 500 Nakfa out of the country, with potential for confiscation.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
Updated: 2026-02-24
The UK's FCDO advises against all travel to within 25 km of Eritrea’s land borders due to high tensions, military activity, and the risk of landmines. It highlights that consular support is severely limited in these areas and that even in a crisis, face-to-face assistance or evacuation may be impossible, urging travelers to prepare for self-evacuation. The advisory points out that Eritrean authorities may not inform the British Embassy of a national's need for help and have refused consular access to detained foreigners.
Key entry requirements include a visa obtained in advance, a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival, and 2 blank pages. Travelers must declare all electronic items and foreign currency over US$10,000 on entry, and are limited to taking 1,000 Nakfa out of the country. Specific warnings include the illegality of same-sex sexual activity, strict prohibitions on photographing government or military installations, and the unreliability of internet and phone networks. Road travel is deemed hazardous due to poor conditions, lack of lighting, and erratic driving, with permits required for travel outside Asmara's surrounding province.
Key entry requirements include a visa obtained in advance, a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival, and 2 blank pages. Travelers must declare all electronic items and foreign currency over US$10,000 on entry, and are limited to taking 1,000 Nakfa out of the country. Specific warnings include the illegality of same-sex sexual activity, strict prohibitions on photographing government or military installations, and the unreliability of internet and phone networks. Road travel is deemed hazardous due to poor conditions, lack of lighting, and erratic driving, with permits required for travel outside Asmara's surrounding province.
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-02-25
Australia advises to reconsider your need to travel to Eritrea overall, and do not travel to border regions with Ethiopia, Sudan, and Djibouti, citing risks of violent crime, potential conflict, landmines, and bomb attacks. The advisory highlights the influx of Sudanese refugees since 2023, straining limited infrastructure, and notes the risk of kidnapping. A significant concern is the Australian government's limited ability to provide consular help, as Eritrean authorities don't always inform embassies of detentions and consular officials face long delays in obtaining visas and travel permits.
Entry requirements include a visa, a yellow fever vaccination certificate, and declaring all electronic items upon arrival to avoid confiscation. The economy is completely cash-based with no ATMs or credit cards, and it's illegal to use foreign currencies or exchange money outside official Himbol branches. Strict laws prohibit same-sex relationships and photography of government/military sites. The advisory also details poor road conditions, unreliable public transport outside Asmara (often requiring private car rental), and the high threat of piracy in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
Entry requirements include a visa, a yellow fever vaccination certificate, and declaring all electronic items upon arrival to avoid confiscation. The economy is completely cash-based with no ATMs or credit cards, and it's illegal to use foreign currencies or exchange money outside official Himbol branches. Strict laws prohibit same-sex relationships and photography of government/military sites. The advisory also details poor road conditions, unreliable public transport outside Asmara (often requiring private car rental), and the high threat of piracy in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores
Updated: 2026-02-24
Spain strongly advises against travel to Eritrea, particularly recommending avoidance of border zones with Sudan, Ethiopia, and Djibouti. While COVID-19 entry requirements have been lifted, travelers should consult airlines for health protocols. The embassy in Khartoum (residing in Cairo) recommends staying in contact and registering with the Traveler Registry. Tensions with Ethiopia pose a risk, and the border remains closed. Internal travel requires specific permits, even for residents, with any exit from Asmara needing local authority authorization. Credit cards are not accepted, and foreign currency transfers are difficult. Photography of government or military sites is prohibited.
Entry requires a passport valid for at least 6 months and a visa (tourist, business, official, diplomatic) obtained in advance. Internal travel permits are mandatory and depend on the visa type. Recommended vaccinations include Tetanus, Meningitis, Hepatitis, and Cholera, with malaria medication advised for low-altitude areas. Crime rates are generally low, but vigilance regarding valuables is advised. Landmines are present near borders and off main roads. Healthcare facilities are limited, and travel insurance covering healthcare and evacuation is essential. Homosexuality is illegal. For assistance, Spanish citizens can contact the Italian or German embassies or the EU Delegation in Asmara.
Entry requires a passport valid for at least 6 months and a visa (tourist, business, official, diplomatic) obtained in advance. Internal travel permits are mandatory and depend on the visa type. Recommended vaccinations include Tetanus, Meningitis, Hepatitis, and Cholera, with malaria medication advised for low-altitude areas. Crime rates are generally low, but vigilance regarding valuables is advised. Landmines are present near borders and off main roads. Healthcare facilities are limited, and travel insurance covering healthcare and evacuation is essential. Homosexuality is illegal. For assistance, Spanish citizens can contact the Italian or German embassies or the EU Delegation in Asmara.
Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland)
Updated: 2026-02-24
Ireland advises to avoid non-essential travel to Eritrea, and all travel within 25 km of its land borders, citing serious and potentially life-threatening risks. It explicitly states that Ireland has no Embassy or Consulate in Eritrea, meaning consular assistance is provided remotely via the Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya, and is extremely limited. A critical point is that Eritrean authorities have not always informed embassies when foreign nationals need assistance, complicating support efforts.
Specific warnings include extensive unmarked minefields, particularly near the Ethiopian border, and banditry in border and rural areas. Travelers must obtain a visa in advance and possess a passport valid for at least 6 months. The advisory emphasizes strict adherence to local laws, highlighting severe penalties for drug offenses, the illegality of homosexual acts, and the prohibition of photographing government or military installations. The economy is cash-based with no ATMs or credit card facilities, and strict currency rules apply, including a 500 Nakfa exit limit, which is lower than other advisories.
Specific warnings include extensive unmarked minefields, particularly near the Ethiopian border, and banditry in border and rural areas. Travelers must obtain a visa in advance and possess a passport valid for at least 6 months. The advisory emphasizes strict adherence to local laws, highlighting severe penalties for drug offenses, the illegality of homosexual acts, and the prohibition of photographing government or military installations. The economy is cash-based with no ATMs or credit card facilities, and strict currency rules apply, including a 500 Nakfa exit limit, which is lower than other advisories.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
Updated: 2026-03-23
Japan issues a multi-tiered travel advisory for Eritrea: Level 4 (Evacuate) for the Ethiopian border region due to military conflict, Level 3 (Do Not Travel) for the Djibouti border, and Level 2 (Avoid Non-Essential Travel) for Asmara and other areas. The advisory specifically notes the continued confrontation between Eritrean forces and TPLF near the Ethiopian border, posing a risk of being caught in clashes. It emphasizes the presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance near the southern borders, advising against straying from main roads.
The advisory details strict entry procedures, including mandatory visas obtained in advance, 6-month passport validity, and the requirement to declare foreign currency over US$10,000. It warns against exchanging money at unauthorized dealers and highlights a 1,000 Nakfa limit on currency taken out of the country. Critical information includes severe restrictions on communication services (no international roaming, difficulty getting local SIMs, slow and restricted internet/social media), and the mandatory travel permit for any movement 25 km outside Asmara. Photography of government/military facilities is strictly prohibited, and criticism of the government can lead to detention.
The advisory details strict entry procedures, including mandatory visas obtained in advance, 6-month passport validity, and the requirement to declare foreign currency over US$10,000. It warns against exchanging money at unauthorized dealers and highlights a 1,000 Nakfa limit on currency taken out of the country. Critical information includes severe restrictions on communication services (no international roaming, difficulty getting local SIMs, slow and restricted internet/social media), and the mandatory travel permit for any movement 25 km outside Asmara. Photography of government/military facilities is strictly prohibited, and criticism of the government can lead to detention.
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-02-27
New Zealand advises to avoid non-essential travel to Eritrea overall (Level 3) due to an unpredictable security situation, with "Do Not Travel" (Level 4) advisories for border areas with Sudan, Ethiopia, and Djibouti. This is attributed to ongoing tensions, landmines, and the risk of violence, including armed banditry. A key limitation is New Zealand's lack of diplomatic presence in Eritrea, severely restricting the government's ability to provide consular assistance.
The advisory warns of violent crime (pickpocketing, armed banditry in specific regions), the potential for terrorist attacks, and civil unrest, urging vigilance and avoidance of large gatherings. It highlights extensive unmarked minefields, particularly in border areas, and the threat of piracy in coastal waters and the Gulf of Aden. All foreign nationals require travel permits to leave Asmara, which are strictly enforced. Homosexual activity is illegal and can lead to arrest and imprisonment, and photography of government/military establishments is prohibited.
The advisory warns of violent crime (pickpocketing, armed banditry in specific regions), the potential for terrorist attacks, and civil unrest, urging vigilance and avoidance of large gatherings. It highlights extensive unmarked minefields, particularly in border areas, and the threat of piracy in coastal waters and the Gulf of Aden. All foreign nationals require travel permits to leave Asmara, which are strictly enforced. Homosexual activity is illegal and can lead to arrest and imprisonment, and photography of government/military establishments is prohibited.
Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE)
Updated: 2026-02-23
Switzerland advises against travel to Eritrea's border regions due to tense relations with neighboring countries and ongoing security risks. A key concern is that travel outside Asmara requires authorization for foreign nationals, including Swiss diplomatic staff, which makes it very difficult, if not impossible, for Switzerland to provide assistance to its citizens in emergencies. The advisory explicitly mentions the considerable risk of landmines and other explosive remnants of war in border areas, urging travelers to stick to main, frequented roads.
It highlights that border crossings with Ethiopia and Djibouti are closed, and the situation with Sudan is volatile due to ongoing conflict and smuggling activities. The advisory warns of unreliable internet and telephone connections, which are often limited or interrupted. Specific legal prohibitions include homosexual acts and photographing public buildings or military installations. Medical care outside Asmara is described as partially assured at best, with hospitals generally requiring upfront payment, and recommending treatment abroad for serious conditions.
It highlights that border crossings with Ethiopia and Djibouti are closed, and the situation with Sudan is volatile due to ongoing conflict and smuggling activities. The advisory warns of unreliable internet and telephone connections, which are often limited or interrupted. Specific legal prohibitions include homosexual acts and photographing public buildings or military installations. Medical care outside Asmara is described as partially assured at best, with hospitals generally requiring upfront payment, and recommending treatment abroad for serious conditions.
Regjeringen (Norway)
Updated: 2026-03-04
Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands)
Updated: 2026-04-17
The Netherlands assigns a red color code (do not travel) to Eritrea's border areas with Sudan, Ethiopia, and Djibouti due to armed groups, political tensions, and landmines. The rest of Eritrea is under an orange color code (only necessary travel), indicating it's unsafe for holidays and that Dutch consular assistance will be limited. The advisory specifically mentions that the Dutch embassy cannot help if travelers encounter problems in red zones.
Key warnings include the risk of pickpocketing and theft in crowded places. For Lhbtiq+ persons, the advisory highlights severe penalties, discrimination, and aggression, with sexual acts between persons of the same sex being forbidden and punishable by long prison sentences. It also points out that Eritrea does not recognize dual nationality, treating dual citizens as Eritrean nationals, which means the embassy will not be informed or able to help if they encounter problems. Mandatory visas, a 6-month valid passport, and an Eritrean driver's license are required for entry and driving.
Key warnings include the risk of pickpocketing and theft in crowded places. For Lhbtiq+ persons, the advisory highlights severe penalties, discrimination, and aggression, with sexual acts between persons of the same sex being forbidden and punishable by long prison sentences. It also points out that Eritrea does not recognize dual nationality, treating dual citizens as Eritrean nationals, which means the embassy will not be informed or able to help if they encounter problems. Mandatory visas, a 6-month valid passport, and an Eritrean driver's license are required for entry and driving.
Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy)
Updated: 2026-03-03
Italy identifies Eritrea as having areas of particular caution and advises against entering Eritrean territorial waters or requesting anchorage in ports due to a high risk of detention by port authorities or the Navy. A critical point is that the arrest of Italian citizens is NOT automatically notified to the Embassy, leading to objective difficulties in providing timely consular assistance. Furthermore, assistance outside the capital is contingent on the Embassy staff obtaining travel permits, which can be time-consuming and uncertain.
The advisory notes that while common crime is low, the region's historical conflicts mean that tensions in the Ethiopian Tigray region could affect Eritrea. Travel permits are mandatory for any movement outside Asmara, and specific destinations are limited, with border areas explicitly excluded. The economy is cash-only with no ATMs or credit card POS terminals. Strict rules apply to foreign currency declaration (over US$10,000), exchange through official channels only, and an exit limit of 1000 Nakfa. Photography of military installations, police barracks, ports, and airports is strictly forbidden, and the import of drones is prohibited.
The advisory notes that while common crime is low, the region's historical conflicts mean that tensions in the Ethiopian Tigray region could affect Eritrea. Travel permits are mandatory for any movement outside Asmara, and specific destinations are limited, with border areas explicitly excluded. The economy is cash-only with no ATMs or credit card POS terminals. Strict rules apply to foreign currency declaration (over US$10,000), exchange through official channels only, and an exit limit of 1000 Nakfa. Photography of military installations, police barracks, ports, and airports is strictly forbidden, and the import of drones is prohibited.
BMEIA (Austria)
Updated: 2026-03-02
Austria assigns a Safety Level 3 (High Security Risk) for all of Eritrea, advising against non-essential travel, especially outside Asmara, Massawa beaches, and the Dhalak Archipelago. It specifically warns against land travel due to acute mine danger in border regions with Ethiopia, Sudan, and Djibouti. The advisory notes that consular support cannot be guaranteed in emergencies, particularly outside the capital.
Entry requires a visa from the Eritrean Embassy in Berlin and a passport valid for 6 months upon application. Travelers must be able to prove onward travel and pay an exit tax at the airport. Unrestricted import/export of foreign currency is allowed, but amounts over US$10,000 must be declared. Medical facilities are not up to European standards, and a comprehensive travel insurance policy with medical evacuation is strongly recommended. Photography of military and public buildings is prohibited, and special permits are needed for archaeological sites and travel outside Asmara. Homosexuality is illegal.
Entry requires a visa from the Eritrean Embassy in Berlin and a passport valid for 6 months upon application. Travelers must be able to prove onward travel and pay an exit tax at the airport. Unrestricted import/export of foreign currency is allowed, but amounts over US$10,000 must be declared. Medical facilities are not up to European standards, and a comprehensive travel insurance policy with medical evacuation is strongly recommended. Photography of military and public buildings is prohibited, and special permits are needed for archaeological sites and travel outside Asmara. Homosexuality is illegal.
0404 (Korea)
Updated: 2026-03-06
Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland)
Updated: 2026-03-04
Finland advises following special caution in Eritrea, recommending avoidance of travel to border areas with Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Sudan due to landmines and potential armed robberies. Travel outside Asmara requires a permit, which is not always granted, and Finnish citizens cannot be guaranteed consular protection outside the capital. Petty crime is minimal in Asmara, but caution is advised. Road conditions vary, with paved roads connecting major cities but unpaved roads potentially mined, especially during the rainy season. Travel after dark should be avoided.
Healthcare facilities and medication availability are limited. Dual nationals are treated as Eritrean citizens, potentially impacting consular protection. Exchange of currency is restricted to official outlets, and retaining receipts is important. Photography of military installations and airports is prohibited. Homosexual relationships are not accepted, and foreigners have been expelled for their sexual orientation. Penalties for drug offenses are severe.
Healthcare facilities and medication availability are limited. Dual nationals are treated as Eritrean citizens, potentially impacting consular protection. Exchange of currency is restricted to official outlets, and retaining receipts is important. Photography of military installations and airports is prohibited. Homosexual relationships are not accepted, and foreigners have been expelled for their sexual orientation. Penalties for drug offenses are severe.
Important: This is an aggregated summary from multiple government sources. Always consult official government travel advisory websites before making travel decisions.
About Travel Advisories for State of Eritrea
This comprehensive travel advisory page for State of Eritrea aggregates official government warnings and recommendations from eight major international sources. Each country's foreign affairs department maintains its own travel advisory system based on unique assessment criteria, intelligence gathering, and diplomatic considerations.
The United States Department of State, Global Affairs Canada, UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Australia's Smartraveller, France's Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs, and Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs each provide independent assessments of travel risks to State of Eritrea.
By comparing these multiple perspectives, travelers can gain a more complete understanding of the current situation in State of Eritrea and make better-informed decisions about their travel plans. Remember to always check the official government websites directly before finalizing any travel arrangements.
Last updated: 2026-04-12