Turkey is at Level 2: exercise increased caution

There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. An area of increased risk was removed. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise increased caution in Türkiye due to terrorism, armed conflict, and arbitrary detentions. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to the border region with Syria and Iraq due to risk of terrorism and armed conflict.

Advisory Summary

Exercise caution in crowded public spaces including transportation hubs, markets, malls, government buildings, hotels, restaurants, clubs, places of worship, educational institutions, parks, airports, and major events.

Terrorism

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Türkiye. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.

• Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Türkiye.
• Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations.
• Be cautious in transportation hubs, markets, malls, and government buildings, as well as hotels, clubs, restaurants, religious sites, places of worship, and parks. Be careful in airports and at major events.

Arbitrary Detentions

• The Turkish government has detained and arrested individuals, including Americans, for alleged links to terrorist groups based on scant evidence and minimal due process.
• Americans have also been subject to exit bans that prevent them from departing Türkiye.
• Protests not approved by the Turkish government can lead to arrest, as can criticizing the government, including on social media.

Risks in specific areas

Level 4: Do not travel

Border Region with Syria and Iraq

Do not travel within 10 km (6 miles) of Türkiye's borders with Syria or Iraq for any reason, due to risk of terrorism and armed conflict.

• There are heightened risks of anti-Western, specifically anti-U.S. or anti-Israel, sentiment. There is continued threat of attacks by terrorist groups.
• The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency services to Americans in the border regions with Syria and Iraq due to the safety risks. U.S. government employees working in Türkiye need special authorization to travel to these areas due to safety risks.

If you decide to travel to Türkiye:  

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Türkiye.
• Review our information on Terrorism and Travel to High-Risk Areas. 
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Develop a communication plan with family, your employer, or host organization. Plan together how and when you'll confirm you are safe (text or call).   
• Stay alert especially in tourist spots.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the International Travel Checklist.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Türkiye.