Location: Trinidad and Tobago
Event: State of Emergency in Effect
On March 2nd, 2026, the Government of Trinidad and Tobago (GOTT) declared a nationwide State of Emergency (SOE) which will be in effect from March 3rd, 2026. The SOE was declared due to a spike in violent criminal activity, mainly carried out by members of organized criminal gangs. U.S. citizens in Trinidad and Tobago should expect an increased police and military presence.
During the SOE, the GOTT will impose the following measures:
The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) will have the authority to:
- Arrest individuals on suspicion of involvement in illegal activities; and
- Search and enter public and private premises as necessary.
- Bail provisions are suspended for those suspected of committing a crime.
- Members of the Defense Force will operate under similar regulations to the TTPS.
- At this time, no curfew or restrictions on public assemblies are in effect.
The Government of Trinidad and Tobago will monitor the SOE daily, and restrictions may change.
As a reminder, U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to the following areas: Laventille (including Picadilly Street and Charlotte Street between Oxford Street and Park Street), Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite, and the interior of Queen’s Park Savannah; and must avoid the following places after dark:
- Beaches
- Downtown Port of Spain
- Fort George
- Queen’s Park Savannah
Please see the State Department’s complete country information page here.
Actions to take:
- Carry your ID at all times.
- Cooperate with local authorities during their SOE-mandated activities.
- Monitor reputable news outlets and official Trinidad and Tobago government updates.
- U.S. citizens seeking travel to the United States must have a valid U.S. passport.
- Report any suspicious activity to local authorities.
Please tell your U.S. citizen friends and family to sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (step.state.gov) so that they may receive these alerts and updates too.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Port of Spain
15 Queen’s Park West
Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
Emergencies: + (868) 622-6371, then press 1; Email: acspos@state.gov
Non-Emergencies + (868) 235-4500; Email: TrinidadandTobago.ACS@gdit-gss.com
Website: tt.usembassy.gov or follow on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram
Contact the State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs
1-888-407-4747 toll-free from the United States and Canada
1-202-501-4444 from other countries or
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP ) to receive security updates
Trinidad and Tobago Country Information
