May 20, 2004

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: Eritrea is a poor but developing East African country. Formerly a province of Ethiopia, Eritrea became an independent country on May 24, 1993, following a 30-year struggle that culminated in an overwhelming referendum vote for independence. Tourism facilities are very limited. The capital is Asmara.

ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS: All travelers who are not Eritrean citizens must have a passport and valid visa prior to arrival in Eritrea. Eritrea does not issue entry visas at the airport. All visitors to Eritrea who cannot be considered Eritrean citizens and who enter the country with a U.S. passport and a visa do not need an exit visa, as long as they do not remain in Eritrea past their visa expiration date. Persons who stay beyond their visa expiration date may be subject to fines, imprisonment, or be required to remain in Eritrea for more than a month while the case is reviewed in court. Please see the section below on "Criminal Penalties." All long-term residents, regardless of their citizenship, must obtain an exit visa before departure.

U.S. citizens who were born in Eritrea, who were born of Eritrean parents, or who in any other way appear to have Eritrean origins, are required to register with the Immigration and Nationality office in Asmara within seven business days of their entry into the country. U.S.-Eritrean dual nationals who enter Eritrea using their Eritrean passport or national identification card are required to obtain an exit visa prior to departure. In some cases an exit visa application may substantially delay travel plans or may be denied, even for such persons who entered Eritrea legally. Eritrean authorities have stated that Eritreans who left the country after 1993 and prior to obtaining U.S. citizenship may not be allowed to depart Eritrea, whether or not they have a U.S. passport and a valid Eritrean visa. Please see section on "Dual Nationality."

There is an airport departure tax. Information about the airport tax and entry/exit requirements may be obtained from the Embassy of Eritrea, 1708 New Hampshire Ave., NW, Washington, D.C. 20009 ; telephone (202) 319-1991; fax (202) 319-1304. Overseas, inquiries may be made at the nearest Eritrean embassy or consulate.

In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of relationship and permission for the child's travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry and departure.

DUAL NATIONALITY: The government of Eritrea does not recognize renunciation of Eritrean citizenship, regardless of other citizenship. U.S. citizens born in Eritrea or who otherwise are considered by the Eritrean government to have acquired Eritrean citizenship may be subject to the obligations of that citizenship, including national service, regardless of the type of documentation they used to enter Eritrea. Even a U.S. citizen who enters Eritrea with a U.S. passport and valid Eritrean visa, if he or she can also be considered an Eritrean citizen, may be required to perform national service. National service involves approximately six months of military training, followed by an indeterminate number of years in military or other government service. For further information, see the Bureau of Consular Affairs website at http://travel.state.gov for the flyer on Dual Nationality.

SAFETY AND SECURITY: Following the 1998-2000 armed conflict between Eritrea and Ethiopia, a peace agreement was signed in December 2000. A United Nations (UN) peacekeeping force has been deployed along the Eritrean-Ethiopian border since January 2001 and monitors a 15 mile-wide Temporary Security Zone. As part of the peace agreement, Eritrea and Ethiopia agreed to settle the border issue via international arbitration based on the 2002 Eritrea-Ethiopia Boundary Commission decision. Demarcation of the border has not yet begun. Currently, all border crossings into Ethiopia from Eritrea remain closed. U.S. citizens should inquire at the U.S. Embassy in Asmara and with Eritrean officials before traveling near the border.

Landmines and unexploded ordnance remain a serious problem throughout the country. There are continuing reports of accidents in 2003, with numerous incidents where vehicles and people detonated mines. Many detonations occurred on relatively well-traveled roads in and near the Gash Barka region of western Eritrea. Investigations of these incidents indicate that several mines had been recently laid. Vast areas of the country have not been certified as free of mines and unexploded ordnance left over from both the 1998-2000 conflict and the 30-year war for independence that ended in 1991. Americans should avoid walking alone and hiking in riverbeds or areas that local government officials do not certify as safe.

Although Eritrea and Sudan have diplomatic relations, the border between the countries is closed. Overland travel between these countries is dangerous and strongly discouraged. The Eritrean-Sudanese border area remains tense. In addition, there is a risk of encountering banditry or Islamic extremist insurgent activity near the Eritrean-Sudanese border in areas north and west of the road between Keren and Barentu. In 2003 there were several incidents apparently involving insurgents or criminals near Eritrea 's border with Sudan. Sporadic bombings occurred in 2003 in the Gash Barka region near the Sudanese border that targeted vehicles and government facilities. This resulted in a travel restriction for the area being issued by the UN for its personnel requiring prior approval and strict adherence to security precautions for travel into the area. In addition, several attacks were reported in the North Red Sea region, including an ambush of an NGO vehicle resulting in two fatalities. Eritrean officials attribute these incidents to insurgent groups such as the Eritrean Islamic Jihad or other dissident groups supported by foreign governments. However, Eritrean authorities have not offered evidence to support their assertions and have not announced any arrests related to these attacks. Travel in the area along Eritrea 's border with Sudan remains unsafe and ill advised. If such travel is essential, travelers should consult both the Eritrean authorities and the U.S. Embassy.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements can be found.

Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-317-472-2328. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

CRIME: Street crimes, such as theft, robbery, and assault are rare in Asmara and other cities and towns, but the incidence of these occurrences is increasing. Travelers should exercise vigilance in their personal security and safety precautions regarding valuables carried and areas visited.

The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends, and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed.

U.S. citizens may refer to the Department of State's pamphlet, A Safe Trip Abroad, for ways to promote a trouble-free journey. The pamphlet is available by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, via the Internet at http://www.gpoaccess.gov or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov.

MEDICAL FACILITIES: Medical facilities in Eritrea are extremely limited. Travelers must carry their own supplies of prescription drugs and preventative medicines because pharmaceuticals are in short supply.

MEDICAL INSURANCE: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. U.S. medical insurance plans seldom cover health costs incurred outside the United States unless supplemental coverage is purchased. Further, U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. However, many travel agents and private companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas including emergency services such as medical evacuations.

When making a decision regarding health insurance, Americans should consider that many foreign doctors and hospitals require payment in cash prior to providing service and that a medical evacuation to the U.S. may cost well in excess of $50,000. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas often face extreme difficulties. When consulting with your insurer prior to your trip, ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas healthcare provider or whether you will be reimbursed later for expenses you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.

Useful information on medical emergencies abroad, including overseas insurance programs, is provided in the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs brochure, Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad,available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page.

OTHER HEALTH INFORMATION: There is a significant incidence of chloroquine resistant malaria in the lowlands of Eritrea. Prophylaxis is recommended along with preventive measures such as insect repellant, clothing that covers the extremities, and use of mosquito netting. Food and water borne illnesses are very common among travelers. Drink only bottled or purified water and eat foods that are cooked or peeled.

Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747); fax 1-888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299), or via the CDC's Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization's web site at http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith.

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Eritrea is provided for general reference only and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance:

The roads between the major cities of Asmara, Massawa, Mendefera, Dekemhare, Barentu, and Keren are paved and are in relatively good condition. However, the roads leading to the smaller villages are usually unpaved and are in poor condition. U.S. citizens should avoid traveling at night and on unpaved and secondary roads.

Landmines and unexploded ordnance litter the countryside in many areas and continue to cause occasional injuries and deaths. Although a demining effort is underway, it is wise to consider all areas that are not well-traveled as potentially dangerous due to live mines. Areas north and west of Keren are heavily mined. Also, there are minefields near Massawa, Ghinda, Agordat, Barentu, south of Tessenae, Nakfa, Adi Keih, Arezza, Dekemhare, and in a roughly 40-kilometer wide region bounded on the east by the Eritrea-Ethiopia border, on the south by the Mereb River, and on the north by the Setit River. Check with local government and local village officials before undertaking travel off of paved roads in Eritrea, as newly discovered minefields are located regularly. Exercise caution when traveling off primary roads or to remote areas, and avoid secondary roads when possible. Bad weather may significantly reduce the ability to use roads that are in poor condition.

Many Eritreans make use of inexpensive public transportation, especially bus service. Travelers should avoid using buses if possible due to the risk of accidents as a result of extreme over-crowding. Taxis are plentiful and inexpensive in Asmara but are also likely to be crowded with many passengers not wearing seatbelts. If an empty taxi is available, a customer may request a "contract," meaning that for a slightly higher price, the driver will not pick up additional passengers. This option increases comfort and safety for a small extra cost.

Drivers should be aware of heavy pedestrian and bicycle traffic that generally obstructs the flow of vehicular traffic on city streets. Occasionally, horse-drawn carts, cattle, or goats obstruct traffic. Children and the elderly sometimes wander into the street in the path of moving traffic. Drivers should be mindful of small motorized carts traveling at low speeds. These vehicles are normally operated by elderly or disabled people who do not always yield to faster moving traffic. When parallel parking on city streets, be aware of pedestrians as you back in to park.

For additional general information about road safety, including links to foreign government sites, see the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov/road_safety.html.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: As there is no direct commercial air service by local carriers at present, or economic authority to operate such service, between the U.S. and Eritrea, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Eritrea 's Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international aviation safety standards.

For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the U.S. at 1-800-322-7873, or visit the FAA's website at http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa/index.cfm. The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) separately assesses some foreign air carriers for suitability as official providers of air services. For information regarding the DOD policy on specific carriers, travelers may contact DOD at (618) 229-4801.

CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Eritrean laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Eritrea are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. Under the PROTECT Act of April 2003, it is a crime, prosecutable in the United States, for U.S. citizens or permanent resident aliens to exploit children sexually via pornography, the Internet or other means or to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a person under the age of 18 in a foreign country, regardless of whether there was intent.

CURRENCY ISSUES: The government of Eritrea introduced the country's new currency, the Nafka, in November 1997. Only a few airlines and one hotel in Asmara accept credit cards. Generally, foreigners must pay bills at major hotels in U.S. dollars or U.S. dollar-denomination traveler's checks.

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS: In Eritrea there is a high risk of earthquakes. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available via the Internet from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at http://www.fema.gov.

CHILDREN'S ISSUES: For information on international adoption of children and international parental child abduction, please refer to our Internet site at http://travel.state.gov/children's_issues.html or telephone Overseas Citizens Services at 1-888-407-4747. This number is available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Callers who are unable to use toll-free numbers, such as those calling from overseas, may obtain information and assistance during these hours by calling 1-317-472-2328.

REGISTRATION/EMBASSY LOCATION: U.S. citizens are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy in Asmara and to obtain updated information on travel and security in Eritrea. The U.S. Embassy address is: Franklin Roosevelt Street, P.O. Box 211 Asmara, telephone (291-1)12-00-04; fax (291-1)12-75-84.

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This replaces the Consular Information Sheet of August 29, 2003, to update the sections on Entry/Exit Requirements, Dual Nationality, Safety and Security, Traffic Safety and Road Conditions, Criminal Penalties, and Children's Issues.

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