Published: September 30, 2026

This report is intended to supplement the U.S. Department of State Haiti Travel Advisory and Haiti International Travel Information Page.

Embassy & Consulate Contact Information

U.S. Embassy Port-au-Prince

Tabarre 41, Route de Tabarre, Port-au-Prince

Tel: +509-2229-8000, +509-2229-8900; Emergency after hours: +509-2229-8000

Hours: Monday-Friday, 0700-1530.

OSAC Country Chapter(s)

The OSAC Country Chapter in Port-au-Prince is not currently active.

Contact OSAC’s Americas team with any questions.

Haiti Travel Advisory

The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses that travelers should not travel to Haiti due to crime, kidnapping, terrorism, unrest, and limited healthcare.

Review OSAC’s report, Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System.

Crime

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Port-au-Prince as being a CRITICAL-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

The U.S. Department of State has included a Crime “C” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Haiti, indicating that widespread violent or organized crime is present in areas of the country; local law enforcement may have limited ability to respond to serious crimes. 

The crime emergency line in Haiti is 122.

Review the U.S. Department of State’s Crime Victims Assistance brochure.

Crime: General Threat

Haiti regularly experiences widespread violent crime, especially in Port-au-Prince, where gang activity has led to widespread violence. Crimes including robbery, carjackings, sexual assault, and kidnapping for ransom are common. Criminals regularly use firearms, with gunfights between criminal groups and security forces posing a risk to bystanders. Haitian security forces have a very limited capacity to respond to serious crimes.

Gangs often move into new neighborhoods, displacing local residents or fighting rival gangs with high levels of incidental violence. Gangs also control significant roads throughout Port-au-Prince, charging "tolls" for drivers, especially targeting delivery vehicles and fuel transportation. The United Nations estimates gangs control roughly 90% of Port-au-Prince. Outside of Port-au-Prince, high levels of crime remain a concern, but gangs control less territory. U.S. travelers to Cap Haitien, Jacmel, and elsewhere should still exercise increased caution about kidnapping, armed robbery, extortion, and crimes of opportunity.

Traditional tourist-oriented crimes (e.g., pickpocketing, purse snatching) are reported less frequently in Haiti than elsewhere in the region. This is due to a lack of tourism as well as underreporting. The most frequently reported crimes against U.S. nationals in Port-au-Prince are aggravated assaults and robberies that result in lost or stolen travel documents. Reports of robberies involving U.S. nationals increase around the holiday season, a time that correlates with an overall increase in visitor traffic.

Armed robberies against motorists and pedestrians continue to increase. The Department of State’s travel advisory also warns of robberies of travelers arriving from the airport. Travelers are sometimes followed and violently attacked and robbed shortly after leaving the Port-au-Prince international airport (PAP), or while entering or leaving hotels. Robbers and carjackers also attack private vehicles stuck in heavy congestion and often target lone drivers, particularly women. Those leaving the airport or banks are vulnerable to robbery by motorcycle-mounted assailants who follow their victims a short distance to rob them in a less public area. Shootings during these incidents are common.

Residential theft (e.g., burglary, home invasion) trends over the past few years suggest a decline in traditional criminal burglary and a rise in home invasion, especially in the more affluent areas of upper Port-au-Prince. Assailants have little fear of resistance from residents, and do not appear to consider whether a resident is home. Criminals are not reluctant to use violence, and the vast majority will brandish a firearm, fire it randomly in the air, tie up their victim(s), and abscond with currency or a vehicle. Criminals do not seem overly concerned with police response, as they know none will dispatch quickly.

Vehicle break-ins and theft from occupied vehicles occur frequently. Unattended vehicles with visible valuables are especially targeted. There are also reports of pedestrians opening unlocked doors of idling vehicles and snatching valuables. When driving through market areas, traffic congestion provides multiple opportunities for criminals to approach vehicles on foot.

Port-au-Prince gangs have expanded operations outside of Port-au-Prince, leading to increased crime on major routes of travel. Smaller groups of criminals take advantage of social unrest and create barricades across roadways to extort anyone trying to pass. The Haitian National Police (HNP) has a limited ability to respond to this phenomenon.

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. Report crimes to the local police at +509-3838-111 or +509-3733-3640, then call the Embassy at +509-2229-8000.

Crime: Areas of Concern

U.S. government personnel are limited to traveling only in armored vehicles in Port au Prince and travel is limited to certain pre-approved areas. Additionally, 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.

Review OSAC’s reports, All That You Should Leave Behind, Hotels: The Inns and Outs, Considerations for Hotel Security, Taking Credit, and Our Two Cents: Petty Crime Basics and How to Minimize the Risk.   

Kidnapping Threat

The U.S. Department of State has included a Kidnapping “K” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Haiti, indicating that kidnapping and/or hostage taking occurs in areas of the country.

Kidnapping for ransom is common in Haiti. Kidnapping is widespread and U.S. citizen victims of kidnapping have been injured or killed. Kidnappers target and attack vehicles, commercial buses, and convoys. Ransom demands have been up to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

There are very few discernable patterns in these kidnappings with regards to timing, location, or potential target. Kidnappings have occurred during the day and night, victimizing U.S., Haitian, and third-country citizens alike. The primary motivation for kidnapping in Haiti is ransom.

While there is no reason to believe that U.S. citizens are specific targets, perceived affluence is always a risk factor in criminal targeting. KFR in Haiti appears to be largely based on opportunity; anyone can be a target if they are in the wrong place at the wrong time. Organizations operating in Haiti should take extra precautions to lower their profile and protect their personnel by considering the anti-kidnapping precautions detailed below.

In August 2026, a gang raid occurred in Kenscoff, near Port-au-Prince, where 50 people were kidnapped and at least 47 were killed. The incident marked one of the largest mass kidnappings in Haiti in recent years.

Review OSAC’s reports, Kidnapping: The Basics and Active Shooter and Kidnapping Response Tips.

Terrorism

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Port-au-Prince as being a CRITICAL-threat location for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

The U.S. Department of State has included a Terrorism “T” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Haiti, indicating that terrorist attacks have occurred and/or specific threats against civilians, groups, or other targets may exist.

Terrorist violence, including attacks on citizens and gang activity, occurs frequently. Haitian gangs have been designated as foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs) by the U.S. Department of State. Viv Ansanm and Gran Grif have been designated due to their violent activities and control over strategic areas.

Viv Ansanm: This coalition formed in 2023, uniting two main gang factions in Port-au-Prince, G-9 and G-Pep. The criminal organization coordinates attacks on prisons, government buildings, airports, and has contributed to increased political instability.

Gran Grif: The largest gang in Haiti’s Artibonite and responsible for many civilian deaths. Gran Grif has attacked civilians, Haitian National Police, and security forces.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, sporting events, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools, parks, shopping malls, and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Political Violence and Civil Unrest

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Port-au-Prince as being a CRITICAL -threat location for political violence directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

The U.S. Department of State has included a Civil Unrest “U” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Haiti, indicating that political, economic, religious and/or ethnic instability exists and may cause violence, major disruptions, and/or safety risks. Civil unrest can develop quickly without prior notice, often interrupting logistics and services. Avoid demonstration activity, as even those planned to remain peaceful have the potential to turn violent.

Elections/Political Stability

Following the assassination of President Moïse and the assumption of power by Prime Minister Ariel Henry in 2021, the Citizen Conference for a Haitian Solution to the Crisis (widely known as the Montana Group) proposed a two-year interim government which would be led by a president and a prime minister, with oversight committees, to restore order, administer elections, and create a truth and justice commission to address past human rights violations.  

Alix Didier Fils-Aimé was appointed in November 2024, promising to restore order and combat gang violence.  General elections are scheduled to be held in Haiti on December 13, 2026.

Protests & Demonstrations

Anti-government political demonstrations continued to pose a security threat. Protests and demonstrations are common and unpredictable. In the past, protesters have barricaded streets with burning tires, stoned the windows of passing vehicles, and shot at police trying to dismantle barricades. Because of prevalent street violence, protests downtown have decreased in rate and intensity.

Civil unrest, either motivated by political or socio-economic issues, occurs frequently in downtown Port-au-Prince around the National Palace, the Champ de Mars, and the State University campuses, along with sporadic incidents scattered throughout the city. More protest activity occurred in other cities across Haiti, as well as along primary roads. They tend to increase during holiday periods and large events. There is a potential for spontaneous protests and public demonstrations. Any demonstration can turn violent, and bystanders can easily find themselves in a clash between demonstrators and the HNP including rock throwing, tire burning, or roadblocks.

Avoid areas with large gatherings and around demonstrations. Armed vigilante groups kill U.S. citizens in many cases, when they suspect an individual of being affiliated with gangs based only on rumors and misinformation. Monitor local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Review OSAC’s report, Surviving a Protest.

Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment

Overall, there is little anti-U.S./Western sentiment, but there have been periods with upticks in anti-imperial rhetoric related to U.S. In the past, there were occasional protests at the U.S. Embassy of 25-300 people.

Law Enforcement

The Haitian National Police, an autonomous civilian institution led by a Director General under the authority of the Minister of Justice and Public Security, is responsible for maintaining public security. The Haitian National Police includes police, corrections, fire, emergency response, airport security, port security, and coast guard functions. The Ministry of Justice and Public Security, through its minister and the secretary of state for public security, provides oversight to the Haitian National Police. The Superior Council of the National Police, chaired by the prime minister, provides strategic guidance. The Superior Council includes the director general and the chief inspector general of the Haitian National Police, the minister of the interior, and the minister of justice and public security. Civilian authorities at times did not maintain effective control over the security forces. There were reports members of the security forces committed abuses.

Police Response

Local law enforcement has significantly limited ability to respond to crimes, especially outside Port-au-Prince and Cap-Haitien, which hinders the deterrent effect on criminals, who operate without fear of the uniformed or traffic police. Lack of resources frequently limits investigations. Approximately two-thirds of HNP officers serve in the greater Port-au-Prince metropolitan area (home to just over one-quarter of the country). As a result, some communities do not have reliable means to report crimes

Haitians, particularly outside of Port-au-Prince, lack basic policing services. Many residents do not report crime. Underreporting or inaccurate reporting of crime appears to be an issue, partly due to the decentralized nature of the HNP commissariats and the perception that judicial or investigative follow-up is ineffective. The HNP enjoys a higher level of trust from the general population than other government agencies. Investigative capacities of the HNP are overtaxed and remain mostly centralized in Port-au-Prince. The judiciary system has struggled for decades to demonstrate strength and reliability. Be respectful and comply with local police authority.

The emergency number for police is 114.

Transportation Security

Road Safety

Roadblocks controlled by gangs are common. Some roads are considered impassible; others come with high risk of extortion. Avoid road travel between cities when possible.

Road conditions, particularly in Port-au-Prince, have deteriorated due to funding issues. Road conditions are occasionally the cause of protests, which in turn damage the roadways even more. Depending on the location and severity of protests, authorities may prioritize road repairs and provide limited relief in the affected area. Driving conditions are chaotic. Many roads outside of the main cities are either gravel or poorly maintained dirt roads.

Driving requires extreme caution, particularly in the evening. Those lacking knowledge of Haitian roads and traffic customs should hire a driver through a tour company or hotel. Road safety remains a significant threat to the average visitor. Avoid travel at night outside of main cities due to poor lighting and unpredictable road conditions that may result in an increased risk of not seeing pedestrians, broken-down vehicles, and oncoming traffic. Vehicles, including large buses and trucks, travel at high rates of speed, especially on provincial roads, and often do not use lights for visibility at night. Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol is common at night. If you are involved in an accident, do not expect medical or law enforcement assistance.

Detailed, accurate maps are not widely available. GPS-based systems usually work accurately but the lack of road signage makes it hard to determine the indicated route.

In rural and mountainous areas, expect no guardrails, few traffic signs and road markings, and little to no vehicle or road lighting. Use caution when driving around bends, as it is common for vehicles coming from the other direction to pass slower vehicles, or for vehicles to drive in the middle of the road. People traveling outside of Port-au-Prince should do so during daylight hours and in groups, due the security situation and road conditions.

Accidents can draw angry, potentially violent crowds very quickly. If a mob forms, proceed directly to a safe place (e.g., police station) to resolve the situation. Remaining at the scene could be a safety risk.

Take special care to avoid becoming stranded in remote regions or enter certain areas deemed unsafe, especially in Port-au-Prince. Avoid driving at night outside low-density, suburban areas. The government of Haiti lacks adequate resources to help drivers in distress or clear the road of accidents or immobile vehicles.

In the case of vehicular robbery (smash-and-grab) and carjacking, a group of street criminals (hiding in the grass or in ditches) often waits for vehicles to stop in traffic or at traffic lights. They rush the vehicle and attempt to open the vehicle doors. If all doors are locked and the driver fails to take immediate action, the group will attempt to break a window to access the vehicle and gain control violently. Newer tactics often involve shooting at the driver to disable him/her during the robbery attempt. Occurrences increase at night and in heavy rush hour traffic.

For detailed, country-specific road and vehicle safety information, read the World Health Organization’s Global Status Report on Road Safety.

Review OSAC’s reports, Road Safety Abroad, Driving Overseas: Best Practices, and Evasive Driving Techniques; and read the U.S. Department of State’s webpage on driving and road safety abroad.

Public Transportation Safety

Avoid using local or public transportation. U.S. embassy policy prohibits the use of any public transportation for U.S. government employees. Many vehicles are in poor condition and often lack working equipment (e.g., headlights, reliable brakes). Tap-taps (small trucks converted into buses) are the primary form of public transportation for most Haitians. Tap-taps can be dangerous based on poor condition and likelihood of accidents and robberies. Moto taxis are unregulated. 

Taxis and Rideshares: Rideshares are not available in Haiti. Taxis are not regulated and should not be hailed due to safety concerns. Trusted hotels can book car services.

Aviation Concerns

Travelers arriving at the airport should refrain from taking public transportation, safeguard belongings, and remain alert between the airport and accommodations. Those leaving the airport are vulnerable to robbery by motorcycle-mounted assailants who follow their victims a short distance to rob them in a less public area. As you leave the airport, make sure no one is following you. If you notice someone following you, drive to the nearest police station immediately. Arrange airport transfers and hotels in advance, or have your host meet you upon arrival.

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Haiti's Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. U.S. commercial flights are not currently operating to or from Port-au-Prince. The FAA issued a Notice to Airman (NOTAM) that prohibits U.S. carrier flights to Port-au-Prince due to instability. Some carriers do operate routes to Cap Haitien.

Review OSAC’s Report, Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights.

Maritime Security

Gangs have periodically controlled the roads leading to and from the main ports in Port-au-Prince. Gangs have demonstrated their ability to take over the Varreux fuel terminal in Port-au-Prince, restricting imports into the country. Gangs have also demonstrated increased capability to operate off the west coast, north of Port-au-Prince, to target commercial barges attempting to bypass gang roadblocks by moving north.

Mariners and passengers traveling to Haiti should monitor the following:

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Travelers with Special Considerations

For specific traveler concerns in Haiti, review the local laws and circumstances on the U.S. Department of State’s Country Information Page.

• Women Travelers
• Gay and Lesbian Travelers
• Accessibility Needs
• Studying Abroad
• Faith-Based Travel

Rule of Law, Arbitrary Detention, Official Harassment, Corruption, & Transparency

The U.S. Department of State has not included a Risk of Wrongful Detention “D” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Haiti.

Haitian law prohibits arbitrary arrest and detention but does not provide for the right of any person to challenge in court the lawfulness of his or her arrest or detention. The constitution stipulates that authorities may arrest a person only if the person is apprehended during the commission of a crime, or if the arrest is based on a warrant issued by a competent official such as a justice of the peace or a magistrate. Authorities must bring the detainee before a judge within 48 hours of arrest. By routinely holding prisoners in prolonged pretrial detention, authorities often fail to comply with these requirements. Local human rights groups report detainees are often held in detention after completing their sentences due to difficulty obtaining release orders from the prosecutor’s office.

Haiti’s legal system often presents challenges for those seeking to resolve legal disputes. There are persistent allegations that some Haitian officials use their public office to influence commercial dispute outcomes for personal gain. However, with international assistance, the Haitian government is actively working to increase the credibility of the judiciary and the capacity of the HNP.

Haitian law, applicable to individuals and financial institutions, criminalizes corruption and money laundering. Bribes or attempted bribes toward a public official are a criminal act and are punishable by the criminal code for one to three years of imprisonment. The law also contains provisions for the forfeiture and seizure of assets. In practice, however, it has been reported that the law has rarely been applied.

Corruption, including bribery, raises the costs and risks of doing business in Haiti. U.S. firms have complained that corruption is a major obstacle to effective business operation in Haiti. They frequently point to requests for payment by customs officials to clear import shipments as examples of solicitation for bribes.

Travelers who accidentally break the law have been detained. The time of detention may vary, and travelers may also face criminal charges and be convicted of a crime. If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately.

Health Concerns

The U.S. Department of State has included a Health “H” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Haiti, indicating that health risks are present, including current disease outbreaks or crises that disrupt a country’s medical infrastructure. Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) country-specific Travel Health Notices for current health issues that impact traveler health, like disease outbreaks, special events or gatherings, and natural disasters.

Healthcare facilities: The lack of reliable quality health care is a serious concern. Medical services are far below U.S. standards and can be difficult to obtain. Emergency medical care is not always readily available, as most hospitals do not have an emergency department staffed 24 hours a day. Prescription pharmaceutical drugs are in short supply, and specialty care is extremely limited. Gang activity has targeted medical facilities, leading some providers such as MSF to limit or close operations. . Medical staff may speak little to no English. Psychiatric and psychological services are limited.

Medical payments and insurance: Medical care is not free in Haiti. Expenses will incur, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility. The U.S. government does not pay medical bills, and U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses and bills abroad. Most hospitals do not accept U.S. health insurance, and most providers require upfront cash payments.  Most major medical care requires medical evacuation (medevac).  Strongly consider purchasing medevac insurance. Consult with your insurance company prior to travel abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas, and whether it will cover emergency expenses.

Ambulance services: Ambulance services are not widely available. Training and response times may be poor. Ambulance services may have limited capabilities, inadequate medical equipment, and unreliable trained staff. In cases of serious illness or injury, travelers may consider using a taxi or a personal vehicle to the nearest major hospital, as this is quicker than waiting for an ambulance.

Common diseases: Common diseases in Haiti are Dengue, Chikungunya, Malaria, Cholera, and Zika.

The emergency number for ambulance is 116 and for fire is 115.

Find contact information for available medical services and available air ambulance services on the U.S. Embassy website. The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends purchasing international health insurance before traveling internationally. Review the U.S. Department of State’s webpage on health insurance overseas.

See OSAC’s Guide to U.S. Government-Assisted Evacuations; review OSAC’s reports, The Healthy Way, Shaken: The Don’ts of Alcohol Abroad, Health 101: How to Prepare for Travel, and Fire Safety Abroad; and visit the U.S. Department of State’s webpage on Your Health Abroad for more information.

Vaccinations

Strongly consider COVID-19 vaccination prior to all travel.

There is an outbreak of Diphtheria in Haiti. Vaccination against Diphtheria is advised. Prior to travel, make sure you are up to date on the following vaccines; Chickenpox, Diphtheria, Flu, Measles, Polio, and Shingles.

Active cholera transmission in widespread in Haiti, but Cholera is rare for travelers. Cases of Measles are on the rise. Travelers are at risk if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to travel.

Review the CDC Travelers’ Health site for country-specific vaccine recommendations.

Issues Traveling with Medications

Prescription pharmaceutical drugs are in short supply in Haiti. Always carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas, as pharmaceuticals are often readily available with limited regulation. Counterfeit medications are common and may contain incorrect dosages, be ineffective, or contain harmful ingredients. Travelers should consult with medical professionals when obtaining medications abroad and purchase only from trusted sources.

Review OSAC’s report, Traveling with Medication.  

Water Quality

Tap water is not safe to drink and in some locations, tap water is not readily available. Bottled water and commercially packed beverages are generally safe. Request bottled water from restaurants and hotels and request no ice in your drinks. Do not drink water from untrusted sources, as illnesses such as typhoid, cholera, hepatitis and other waterborne diseases can result. Wash hands using soap or another antibacterial agent.

Review OSAC’s report, I’m Drinking What in My Water?

Natural Disasters

The U.S. Department of State has not included a Natural Disaster “N” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Haiti, indicating that a natural disaster, or its aftermath, poses danger.

Earthquakes: Haiti is prone to earthquakes and is seismically active due to its location along major fault lines in the Caribbean. Statistics note that Haiti experiences an average of about 31 earthquakes per year.

Hurricanes: Hurricane season in Haiti is from June 1 to November 30. Hurricanes in Haiti have historically caused significant damages and loss of life. Roads and bridges may become impassible. Haiti lacks the resources and infrastructure to provide sufficient disaster response in the wake of major storms.

Review OSAC’s report, Earthquake Preparedness Toolkit.

Cybersecurity

Haiti struggles with low internet connectivity rates and weak cyber infrastructure. It's frequently disrupted by gangs or infrastructure issues. Many foreign entities use satellite-based internet solutions while in Haiti.

Review OSAC’s reports, Cybersecurity Basics, Best Practices for Maximizing Security on Public Wi-Fi, Traveling Abroad with Mobile Devices, and Guide for Overseas Satellite Phone Usage.

Counterintelligence Issues

There are no serious counterintelligence concerns.

Import/Export Restrictions

To import weapons, waste, drugs, and agricultural products into Haiti, the importer must have authorization from the Haitian government. Items prohibited for import into Haiti include materials of a pornographic nature; military equipment, including tanks, armored vehicles and parts, warships and lifeboats; arms and ammunition not intended for government use; narcotics; and equipment to be used to manufacture or print counterfeit currency or securities. It is illegal to import used shoes and used clothing; nonetheless, used clothing imports constitute a lucrative business in Haiti, particularly from the United States and the Dominican Republic. There are no restrictions on the import of satellite phones.

Prescription pharmaceutical drugs are in short supply in Haiti, so travelers should carry ample supplies of personal medication. Medication should be transported in its original packaging. The government of Haiti does not have export controls for any items which are not otherwise illegal to possess or trade.

A country-specific listing of items/goods prohibited from being exported to the country or that are otherwise restricted is available from the U.S. International Trade Agency website.

Additional resources and reports can be found in the OSAC Traveler Toolkit.