April 6, 2004
COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: Serbia and Montenegro is the new name for the former Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Serbia and Montenegro is a moderately developed European country undergoing profound political and economic change. Tourist facilities are widely available but vary in quality and some may not be up to Western standards.
The security environment, travel situation and entry requirements for Kosovo, a province of Serbia in the former Yugoslavia but currently administered by the United Nations Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), may differ from the rest of Serbia and Montenegro. Please see additional specific information on Kosovo that follows the information on Serbia and Montenegro.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: As of June 1, 2003, U.S. citizens no longer require a visa for entry and stay in Serbia and Montenegro for up to 90 days. Individuals planning to stay longer than 90 days must still obtain a visa prior to arrival. This applies to bearers of all types of U.S. passports –tourist, official and diplomatic. In addition, no initial visas are required for the holders of diplomatic and official passports assigned to the Mission or international organizations in Serbia and Montenegro. Diplomatic Missions and international organizations are expected to notify the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Serbia and Montenegro of the arrival of the holders of the said passports within a reasonable timeframe. To obtain a visa, travelers should contact the Embassy of Serbia and Montenegro in Washington at telephone (202) 332-0333 or fax (202) 332-3933. The address of the Embassy is 2134 Kalorama Road, Washington, DC 20008 and the website is http://www.mfa.gov.yu. Alternatively, travelers may also contact the Consulate General in Chicago at telephone (312) 670-6707 or fax (312) 670-6787 or by email at yuconsulate@aol.com. The address of the Chicago Consulate is 201 East Ohio St., Suite 200, Chicago, Illinois 60611.
Travelers are required to declare all currency upon entry and must obtain from customs officials a declaration that must be presented at departure. Failure to comply may result in the confiscation of all funds. See "Customs Regulations" below.
Registration with Local Authorities: Visitors staying in private homes must register with police officials upon arrival. Failure to comply may result in a fine, incarceration, and/or expulsion. Visitors staying in hotels are automatically registered with the police by the hotel.
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/departure.
DUAL NATIONALITY: In addition to being subject to all Serbia and Montenegro laws affecting U.S. citizens, dual nationals may also be subject to other laws that impose special obligations on Serbia and Montenegro citizens. For additional information, see the Consular Affairs home page on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov for our Dual Nationality flyer.
SAFETY AND SECURITY: While threats to American interests are rare, a recent violent demonstration did result in damage to and temporary closure of the U.S. Embassy. Anti-American sentiment tends to be highest surrounding the anniversary dates of the 1999 NATO bombing campaign or during times of unusually high tension in Kosovo (as was the case in March 2004).
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 U.S. 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 Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays.
CRIME: Street crime is at a level similar to other large European cities. Difficult economic conditions have led to the growth of an organized criminal class. Violent crime is most commonly associated with organized crime activities. While confrontational and gratuitously violent crimes rarely target tourists, Mafia-style reprisals have occurred with some regularity, including in hotels, restaurants and shops. Theft and carjacking, especially of "Volkswagen" brand cars, four-wheel drive vehicles and luxury cars, occur at all times of day or night and in all sections of Belgrade and other parts of the country. As in other parts of the world, travelers should be especially on guard walking in city centers. In case of emergency, the police telephone number is 92.
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, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy or 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: Although many physicians in Serbia and Montenegro are highly trained, hospitals and clinics are generally not equipped and maintained to Western standards. Medicines and basic medical supplies are largely obtainable in privately owned pharmacies. Hospitals usually require payment in cash for all services.
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: Information on vaccinations and other health precautions may be obtained form 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 CDC's Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov. 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 which differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Serbia and Montenegro is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.
Safety of Public Transportation: Fair
Urban Road Condition/Maintenance: Fair
Rural Road Condition/Maintenance: Poor
Availability of Roadside Assistance: Poor
Dangerous areas for road travel are "Ibarska Magistrala" and a road called "Moraca Canyon." "Ibarska Magistrala" is the main road from Serbia to Montenegro, a two-lane road running through central Serbia, in bad condition and usually overcrowded. Moraca Canyon in Montenegro is a twisting, two-lane road that is especially overcrowded in summer.
Travelers entering the country by road should know that since March 1, 2002, the purchase of local third-party insurance has not been required. However, road tolls for foreign-registered vehicles remain high. The use of seat belts is mandatory. A driver with a blood alcohol level higher than 0.05 is considered intoxicated. Roadside assistance is available by dialing 987. Other emergency numbers are police: 92, fire department: 93, and ambulance: 94.
Metered taxi service is safe and reasonably priced, although foreigners are sometimes charged higher rates. Buses and trams are overcrowded in Belgrade and in other areas of Serbia and Montenegro and are poorly maintained.
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. For specific information concerning Serbia and Montenegro driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax and mandatory insurance, see the National Tourism Organization of Serbia Internet home page at http://www.serbia-info.com/NTOS. See also road safety information from the Serbia and Montenegro Automotive Association at http://www.amsj.co.yu/eng/eindex.html.
AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: There is one direct flight from Serbia and Montenegro to the United States, operated as a codeshare between Uzbek Air and JAT. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Serbia and Montenegro's Civil Aviation Authority as Category 2 - in compliance with international safety standards for the oversight of Serbia and Montenegro's air carrier operations. This rating only applies to Serbia and Montenegro. For information on aviation safety for Kosovo please see the section below regarding Kosovo. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the United States at tel. 1-800-322-7873, or visit the FAA's Internet web site at http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa.
The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) separately assesses some foreign carriers for suitability as official providers of air services. In addition, the DOD does not permit its personnel to use air carriers from Category 2 countries for official business except for flights originating from or terminating in the United States. Local exceptions may apply. For information regarding the DOD policy on specific carriers, travelers may contact the DOD at tel. (618) 229-4801.
CUSTOMS REGULATIONS: Travelers entering Serbia and Montenegro with more than $2000 in cash are required to declare all currency upon entry and obtain from customs officials a declaration form that must be presented at departure. Failure to comply may result in the confiscation of all funds. In the past American travelers have had thousands of dollars of such unclaimed funds confiscated by customs authorities. Travelers should obtain the necessary forms at ports of entry. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of Serbia and Montenegro in Washington for specific information regarding customs requirements.
In many countries around the world, counterfeit and pirated goods are widely available. Transactions involving such products are illegal and bringing them back to the United States may result in forfeitures and/or fines. A current list of those countries with serious problems in this regard can be found at http://www.ust.gov/reports/2003/special301htm.
Customs authorities encourage the use of an ATA (Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission) Carnet for the temporary admission of professional equipment, commercial samples, and/or goods for exhibitions and fair purposes. ATA Carnet Headquarters, located at the U.S. Council for International Business, 1212 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036, issues and guarantees the ATA Carnet in the United States. For additional information call (212) 354-4480, send an e-mail to atacarnet@uscib.org or visit www.uscib.org for details.
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 Serbia and Montenegro laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Serbia and Montenegro 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 U.S., for U.S. citizens or permanent resident aliens, to engage in illicit sexual conduct, sexually exploit children via pornography, the Internet or other means, with a person under the age of 18 in a foreign country, regardless of whether there was intent.
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: Travelers should carry sufficient cash for their stay. Personal checks and travelers' checks generally are not accepted. Although a limited number of hotels and restaurants now accept credit cards, their use is still not widespread. Travelers expecting to pay bills with a credit card should check in advance whether the hotel or restaurant accepts a particular credit card.
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. 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 AND CONSULATE LOCATIONS: Americans living in or visiting Serbia and Montenegro are encouraged to register at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Belgrade and obtain updated information on travel and security within Serbia and Montenegro. The U.S. Embassy is located at 50 Kneza Milosa Street. The Embassy telephone number is 381-11-3619-344. The Consular Section telephone is 381-11-3619-344 ext. 4650, and the fax number is 381-11-3615-497. For after hours emergencies, the number is 381-11-306-4679.
KOSOVO - Description
Kosovo is a region administered under the civil authority of the U.N. Interim Administrative Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) pursuant to U.N. Security Council Resolution 1244. At this time, some civilian institutions, including the criminal justice system, are not fully functioning. Kosovo is a cash economy. The currency used throughout Kosovo is the euro. There are currently no operating Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) that accept U.S. bankcards.
SECURITY INFORMATION: International NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR) troops are responsible for security and stability in Kosovo. Although the overall security situation has improved, inter-ethnic tensions and sporadic incidents of violence continue to occur.
The Kosovo Police Service (KPS) continues to assume a growing number of duties and responsibilities previously undertaken by KFOR troops and UN civilian police officials in Kosovo. However, even with the deployment of KFOR, U.N. civilian police and KPS throughout Kosovo, re-establishing civil authority and institutions will take time. In March 2004, one week of inter-ethnic violence erupted throughout the province, including several incidents in the capital of Pristina. This outbreak, which resulted in multiple deaths, hundreds of injuries, and thousands of displaced persons, dealt a serious blow to Kosovo’s stability.
High unemployment and other economic factors have encouraged criminal activity. Incidents of ethnic violence in Kosovo continue to occur. While de-mining programs have proven effective, unexploded ordnance and mines remain in some areas. The reliability of telecommunications, electric and water systems remains unpredictable. Travel by U.S. Government officials to areas of Kosovo that have experienced recent ethnic violence is subject to restrictions.
ENTRY AND EXIT REQUIREMENTS: U.S. citizens need a passport to enter Kosovo. No visa is required by UNMIK. However, entry to Serbia or Montenegro from Kosovo should not be attempted without a valid Serbia and Montenegro visa and a valid entry stamp from a Serbia and Montenegro border crossing post. There is no requirement for Americans in Kosovo to register with the local police.
MEDICAL FACILITIES: Health facilities are limited, and medications are in short supply. As a general policy, military field hospitals in Kosovo will treat only emergency medical cases (those involving immediate threat to life, limb or eyesight) on a space available basis. KFOR cannot provide basic health care to non-military personnel, nor can they provide medical evacuation out of Kosovo.
CRIME: Petty street crimes, in particular theft and purse snatchings, are serious problems in Kosovo, especially Pristina. Foreigners are targets for crime, as they are assumed to carry cash. Likewise, international non-governmental organization (NGO) offices have been subject to burglaries. The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the U.S. Office in Pristina. While the U.S. Office cannot directly issue new passports, it will assist with arrangements for applying for a new passport in Skopje, Macedonia.
In case of emergency, the UNMIK police telephone number in the Pristina area is 038-500-092. Emergency numbers in Pristina are Police: 92; Fire Department: 93; and Ambulance: 94. For information on other areas contact the U.S. Office in Pristina.
The UNMIK police force (381-38-501-541) is largely a contingent of international officers who are working with and training local officers to carry out most normal police functions. The judicial system is still under the process of reconstruction. Courts are conducting trials in all cities in Kosovo, though they often cannot hold suspects for more than a few days due to space limitation.
ROAD SAFETY/CONDITIONS: Road conditions can be extremely hazardous because roads are narrow, crowded, and used by a variety of vehicles, from KFOR armored personnel carriers to horse drawn carts. Many vehicles are old and lack standard front or rear lights. Mountain roads can be narrow, poorly marked, and lack guardrails. They quickly become dangerous in inclement weather.
It is strongly recommended that Americans in Kosovo have vehicles that are registered outside of Kosovo, to prevent problems in the event of an evacuation, as Kosovo license plates may not be accepted in neighboring countries.
The use of seat belts is mandatory. A driver with a blood alcohol level higher than 0.05 is considered to be intoxicated. Travelers entering Kosovo by road should be aware that the purchase of local third-party insurance is required.
AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: Civil aviation safety oversight in Kosovo is currently under the administration of the United Nations. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration has not assessed aviation safety oversight in Kosovo for compliance with international aviation safety standards. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the United States at telephone 1-800-322-7873, or visit the FAA's Internet website at http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa.
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 the DOD at telephone (618) 229-4801.
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: Banking services are available in Pristina and other major towns, although they are not fully developed. Some banks have not been able to wire money into Kosovo because of a lack of local banking relationships, but UNMIK agencies and many NGOs are more frequently using local banks to receive currency from abroad and to pay hard currency salaries. There are now a number of banks with international ties that offer limited banking services in Pristina and other major towns. If it becomes necessary to receive emergency funds from abroad, Western Union has offices throughout Kosovo.
REGISTRATION/EMBASSY LOCATION: U.S. citizens are encouraged to register at the U.S. Office in Pristina and obtain updated information on travel and security in Kosovo. At this time the U.S. Office in Pristina provides only emergency services to American citizens. All routine consular services such as passport and visa issuance are provided by the U.S. Embassy in Skopje, Macedonia. The U.S. Office is located at 30 Nazim Hikmet St. in the Dragodan area of Pristina. The telephone number is (381) 38-549-516, e-mail: consularpristina@state.gov.
* * *
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for Serbia and Montenegro dated March 20, 2003, to update the sections on Entry Requirements, Safety and Security, Crime, Medical Insurance, Aviation Safety Oversight, Customs Regulations, Criminal Penalties and Children’s Issues. This Consular Information Sheet also provides updated information on the situation in Kosovo.
Return to Consular Information Sheets and Travel Warnings Page
