Travel Advisory for Democratic Republic of the Congo
This page provides a comprehensive comparison of official government travel advisories for Democratic Republic of the Congo from multiple trusted international sources including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, France, Spain, Ireland, and Japan. Each government assesses travel risks independently based on their own intelligence, diplomatic relationships, and risk assessment criteria. By comparing these different perspectives, travelers can make more informed decisions about their safety and security when visiting Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The information below is aggregated from official government sources and analyzed to provide you with a unified view of the current travel situation. Last updated: 2026-08-26
AdvisoryAtlas.com Risk Level
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Range: Level 3 to Level 4
AdvisoryAtlas.com Safety Index
5
Safety Index Score
Overview
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is currently under a "Do Not Travel" advisory from multiple countries due to severe security risks, including widespread crime, ongoing armed conflict, terrorism, and kidnapping, particularly in eastern regions. Additionally, an Ebola outbreak poses a significant public health emergency, with travel restrictions and health screening measures in place.
Detailed Advisory Summary
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) presents an extremely high-risk travel environment, prompting "Do Not Travel" advisories from numerous international governments. The security situation is critically unstable nationwide, exacerbated by persistent armed conflict, particularly in eastern provinces like North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri, where various armed groups, including the M23 rebels and ADF, are active. These groups engage in widespread violence, including massacres, kidnappings, sexual violence, and looting, often targeting civilians and foreign nationals. Petty and violent crime rates are exceptionally high, especially in Kinshasa and major urban centers, with particular risks after dark, including armed robbery, carjacking, and express kidnappings. Terrorism is a significant threat, with attacks occurring frequently and indiscriminably in public spaces and transportation hubs. Demonstrations can erupt suddenly and turn violent, leading to potential disruptions, roadblocks, and increased security presence. The country is also grappling with a public health emergency due to an Ebola outbreak, necessitating strict hygiene measures and potential health screenings upon entry and exit. Medical infrastructure is severely underdeveloped, with limited access to quality care, especially outside major cities. Travelers are strongly advised to secure comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation, and to exercise extreme caution, avoid travel after dark, and remain vigilant at all times. Due to the volatile security situation, consular assistance is severely limited, and travelers should register their presence with their respective embassies.
Risk Level Summary by Government Source
| Source | Risk Level | Updated | Official Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global Affairs Canada | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-20 | View Source → |
| U.S. Department of State | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-06-26 | View Source → |
| Ministère des Affaires Étrangères | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-07-07 | View Source → |
| Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-26 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-07-06 | View Source → |
| Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-08-18 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-06-08 | View Source → |
| Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-07-21 | View Source → |
| Auswärtiges Amt | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-07-09 | View Source → |
| New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-23 | View Source → |
| Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-06-05 | View Source → |
| Regjeringen (Norway) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-27 | View Source → |
| Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-25 | View Source → |
| Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-18 | View Source → |
| BMEIA (Austria) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-24 | View Source → |
| 0404 (Korea) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-03 | View Source → |
| Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-14 | View Source → |
Safety and Security Analysis
Vaccination Information
Required Vaccines
- Yellow Fever
Recommended for Most Travelers
- Hepatitis A
- Typhoid
- Polio
- Routine vaccines (e.g., MMR, DTaP, Tdap, IPV, Varicella, Meningococcal, Influenza)
- Hepatitis B
- Rabies
- Influenza
Recommended for Some Travelers
- Meningococcal disease (especially for those at higher risk, e.g., in crowded areas or large gatherings)
- Tuberculosis
- Schistosomiasis (avoid freshwater contact)
- Chikungunya
- Dengue
- Onchocerciasis (river blindness)
- Lymphatic filariasis
- African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness)
- Mpox
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up-to-date. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry and proof is required. Polio vaccination is also important, and a booster dose may be recommended for adults. Consult a travel health provider well in advance of travel to discuss necessary vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis. Be aware of the risk of diseases transmitted by insects and contaminated food/water, and take appropriate precautions.
Visa Information
Visa Types
| Type | Requirement | Stay Limit | Cost | Conditions | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist | Embassy | 6 months | Check Embassy | Valid passport, Yellow Fever certificate |
|
| Business | Embassy | 1 week (with tourist visa and mission letter) | Check Embassy | Requires mission letter; longer stays need work visa. |
|
| Work | Embassy | N/A | Check Embassy | Requires "Visa d'établissement de travail" (VET) and employer's VETS. |
|
| Transit | Embassy | N/A | Check Embassy | N/A |
|
| Journalist/Media | Embassy/Ministry | 1 month (permit) | $250 (permit) | Requires permit from Ministry of Communication and Media. |
|
Entry & Legal Compliance
- Passport Validity Needed: 6 months
- Blank Pages Required: 2
- Dual Citizenship Policy: Not Recognized
- Proof Of Onward Travel: Not explicitly stated as required for all, but recommended.
- Currency Limit Declaration: 10,000 USD
- Drone Usage Law: Prohibited or requires official authorization; photography of government/military sites is illegal.
Emergency Contacts
- Police (Kinshasa): 0998 53 34 98 or 0821 54 36 57 (Note: Local emergency services are unreliable and may not always respond.)
- Embassy of Canada (Kinshasa): +243 996 021 500
- Embassy of France (Kinshasa): +33 5 16 44 00 67
- Embassy of Italy (Kinshasa): +243 815 553 651
- Embassy of Japan (Kinshasa): +243 81 880 5059 (Emergency)
- Embassy of Ireland (Tanzania, consular support for DRC): +255 754 783 455 (Duty Officer)
- Australian Embassy (Zimbabwe, consular support for DRC): +263 861 200 2100
- New Zealand Government Consular Assistance: +64 99 20 20 20
- Austrian Ministry for European and International Affairs: [No specific number provided, use general contact channels] (Note: Consular assistance is extremely limited.)
- Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs: +31 247 247 247 or WhatsApp +31 857 737 400 (Note: For emergencies, contact the Dutch Embassy in DRC if a local number is available.)
Common Scams & Tourist Traps
- Street children scams: 'Shege' gangs in Kinshasa may engage in pickpocketing and snatching.
- 'Koulna' gangs: Violent groups may use murder, robbery, and extortion.
- Impersonation: Criminals posing as police or security personnel may demand money or goods.
- Taxi scams: Individuals posing as taxi drivers or passengers may target victims, sometimes with violence.
- ATM scams: Be cautious around ATMs, even in hotels, as criminals may target users.
- Gold and diamond scams: Promises of cut-price precious materials can lure victims into traps.
- Express Kidnappings: Victims are abducted for short periods to withdraw money from ATMs.
- Corruption: Be aware that corruption is widespread in both public and private sectors.
Cultural Etiquette in Democratic Republic of the Congo
Do
- Dress conservatively and maintain discretion to avoid offending locals.
- Respect social and religious traditions.
- Ask permission before taking photos of people.
- Greet people appropriately.
Don't
- Avoid public displays of affection like holding hands or kissing.
- Do not criticize the government or state security forces publicly.
- Do not photograph military installations, government buildings, or police/military personnel without permission.
Advisory Comparison by Government Source
Global Affairs Canada
Updated: 2026-08-20
Canada advises "Avoid all travel" to the DRC due to a fragile security situation and Ebola outbreak, highlighting ongoing fighting between militias and armed groups, particularly in the east. They warn of unpredictable security, potential roadblocks, and border closures. Canadians in affected areas are advised to shelter in place and exercise extreme caution. The advisory also notes a threat of terrorism, frequent demonstrations that can turn violent, and specific risks in eastern provinces under a state of military siege. Entry restrictions related to Ebola are in place for travelers arriving in Canada from the DRC.
Canadian citizens are urged to register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and contact the Embassy of Canada in Kinshasa or Global Affairs Canada for assistance. The security situation remains unpredictable, with armed groups controlling key towns and airports in the east. Road and border crossings can close without notice. Travelers are warned about crime, including petty theft and violent crime, and advised to carry identification and avoid travel after dark. The health infrastructure is considered inadequate, and medical evacuation may be necessary and costly.
Canadian citizens are urged to register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and contact the Embassy of Canada in Kinshasa or Global Affairs Canada for assistance. The security situation remains unpredictable, with armed groups controlling key towns and airports in the east. Road and border crossings can close without notice. Travelers are warned about crime, including petty theft and violent crime, and advised to carry identification and avoid travel after dark. The health infrastructure is considered inadequate, and medical evacuation may be necessary and costly.
U.S. Department of State
Updated: 2026-06-26
The U.S. Department of State has issued a "Do Not Travel" advisory for the DRC due to crime, civil unrest, terrorism, kidnapping, and health risks, including an Ebola outbreak. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency consular services outside Kinshasa. Violent crime, including armed robbery and assault, is common, and criminals may impersonate law enforcement. Demonstrations can turn violent, and unrest can lead to roadblocks and flight suspensions. Active fighting is ongoing in the Kivu provinces, with specific warnings against travel to North and South Kivu, Ituri, Tanganyika, Haut Lomami, and the Kasai provinces due to widespread violent crime, terrorism, and armed group activity.
Travelers are advised to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and carry photocopies of passports and visas. The local health infrastructure is inadequate, and medications may be unsafe. U.S. government employees require special authorization to travel outside Kinshasa. The advisory emphasizes the risk of kidnapping for ransom, particularly in eastern DRC, and the prevalence of sexual assault, especially in conflict zones. It also notes that while same-sex sexual relations are not illegal, public displays can lead to prosecution under public indecency laws, and harassment by state security forces occurs.
Travelers are advised to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and carry photocopies of passports and visas. The local health infrastructure is inadequate, and medications may be unsafe. U.S. government employees require special authorization to travel outside Kinshasa. The advisory emphasizes the risk of kidnapping for ransom, particularly in eastern DRC, and the prevalence of sexual assault, especially in conflict zones. It also notes that while same-sex sexual relations are not illegal, public displays can lead to prosecution under public indecency laws, and harassment by state security forces occurs.
Ministère des Affaires Étrangères
Updated: 2026-07-07
France Diplomatie strongly advises against all tourist travel to the DRC, particularly recommending "formalement déconseillé" (formally advised against) for the entire eastern region due to the M23 rebellion, armed groups, and a catastrophic humanitarian situation. Specific areas like Goma, Bukavu, and national parks (Virunga, Kahuzi-Biega, Garamba) are highlighted as high-risk due to kidnappings and ongoing clashes. The rest of the country is "déconseillé sauf raison impérative" (advised against unless imperative) due to political instability and general insecurity.
Risks include political tensions leading to demonstrations, significant threats from armed groups like the ADF in eastern provinces, and high levels of criminality including violent assaults, robberies, and carjackings, with foreigners being targeted. False police controls and blackmail based on false accusations are also reported. Terrorist threats are present, especially in Ituri and North Kivu, with attacks targeting various public places. Transport is considered dangerous due to poor road conditions, dilapidated vehicles, and aggressive driving, with night travel strongly discouraged. Public transport is deemed unsafe.
Risks include political tensions leading to demonstrations, significant threats from armed groups like the ADF in eastern provinces, and high levels of criminality including violent assaults, robberies, and carjackings, with foreigners being targeted. False police controls and blackmail based on false accusations are also reported. Terrorist threats are present, especially in Ituri and North Kivu, with attacks targeting various public places. Transport is considered dangerous due to poor road conditions, dilapidated vehicles, and aggressive driving, with night travel strongly discouraged. Public transport is deemed unsafe.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
Updated: 2026-08-26
The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all travel to specific parts of the DRC, including the DRC-Central African Republic border area (within 50km), Haut-Uélé, Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu, Maniema, Tanganyika, and Haut-Lomami provinces, as well as the Kwamouth territory in Mai-Ndombe Province. "All but essential travel" is advised for certain districts in Kinshasa Province and for Upemba National Park. The security situation in eastern DRC is described as highly unstable and unpredictable, with M23 rebels and Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF) controlling key cities like Goma and Bukavu, leading to airport attacks and limited routes. Protests can occur with little notice and turn violent, potentially targeting foreign nationals.
There is a high threat of terrorist attacks, particularly from the ADF linked to Daesh in North Kivu and Ituri, with attacks targeting villages, military personnel, and public places frequented by foreigners. Crime, including street robbery and scams, is a particular risk in Kinshasa and other urban centers, with organized gangs and impersonators targeting foreigners. Kidnapping is a risk, and the DRC does not recognize dual nationality. The FCDO advises against adopting children from the DRC due to legal complexities and lack of exit permits. Travelers must have a visa obtained in advance and a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
There is a high threat of terrorist attacks, particularly from the ADF linked to Daesh in North Kivu and Ituri, with attacks targeting villages, military personnel, and public places frequented by foreigners. Crime, including street robbery and scams, is a particular risk in Kinshasa and other urban centers, with organized gangs and impersonators targeting foreigners. Kidnapping is a risk, and the DRC does not recognize dual nationality. The FCDO advises against adopting children from the DRC due to legal complexities and lack of exit permits. Travelers must have a visa obtained in advance and a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-07-06
Smartraveller advises "Do Not Travel" to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) due to a volatile security situation, ongoing conflict, terrorism, kidnapping, and violent protests, particularly in eastern regions. The DRC is also experiencing an Ebola public health emergency. If travel is undertaken despite advisories, travelers may face health screening and potential entry restrictions in other countries. Armed groups control key towns in the east, and the security situation can deteriorate rapidly. Crime rates are very high, especially in Kinshasa and the east, with risks increasing after dark. Kidnapping is a high risk, particularly in the eastern and northeastern regions, with "express kidnappings" targeting foreigners also occurring in Kinshasa.
Australians are advised to avoid demonstrations and crowds, remain vigilant, and ensure travel documents are up-to-date. Military administrations are in place in Ituri and North Kivu, potentially increasing armed conflict. The Australian government has limited consular assistance capabilities in the DRC, with the Canadian Embassy in Kinshasa providing limited support to Australians. Travelers need a visa before entry, cannot obtain one on arrival, and must carry a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Road travel is dangerous, and public transport is unsafe. The DRC does not recognize dual nationality, and travelers should use their Australian passport for entry and exit.
Australians are advised to avoid demonstrations and crowds, remain vigilant, and ensure travel documents are up-to-date. Military administrations are in place in Ituri and North Kivu, potentially increasing armed conflict. The Australian government has limited consular assistance capabilities in the DRC, with the Canadian Embassy in Kinshasa providing limited support to Australians. Travelers need a visa before entry, cannot obtain one on arrival, and must carry a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Road travel is dangerous, and public transport is unsafe. The DRC does not recognize dual nationality, and travelers should use their Australian passport for entry and exit.
Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores
Updated: 2026-08-18
Spain advises avoiding all travel to the DRC due to instability, specifically warning against travel to the east and northeast (Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu, Tanganyika, Haut Lomami, Haut Uele, Bas Uele, Mai Ndombe, and Kwilu) where M23 and ADF groups are intensifying offensives. It strongly recommends that those in North and South Kivu leave when circumstances permit. The advisory also highlights increased violence against foreigners in Kinshasa, including 'express kidnappings' perpetrated by fake police officers.
Unique insights include the warning against visiting the 'Ekolo ya Bonobo' bonobo reserve in the northwest due to serious violence in Basankusu. It notes that the DRC Embassy in Brazzaville is not authorized to issue visas to non-residents, and that DRC Embassies abroad have been instructed not to grant visas to individuals working for NGOs in the eastern provinces (Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu, Tanganyika) since January 2023. The advisory also provides a list of specific, more reliable hospitals in Kinshasa, acknowledging the very deficient general sanitary conditions and the prevalence of falsified or expired medicines outside reputable pharmacies in Gombe.
Unique insights include the warning against visiting the 'Ekolo ya Bonobo' bonobo reserve in the northwest due to serious violence in Basankusu. It notes that the DRC Embassy in Brazzaville is not authorized to issue visas to non-residents, and that DRC Embassies abroad have been instructed not to grant visas to individuals working for NGOs in the eastern provinces (Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu, Tanganyika) since January 2023. The advisory also provides a list of specific, more reliable hospitals in Kinshasa, acknowledging the very deficient general sanitary conditions and the prevalence of falsified or expired medicines outside reputable pharmacies in Gombe.
Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland)
Updated: 2026-06-08
Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs advises "Do Not Travel" to the DRC, its highest level of warning, due to extreme insecurity and the limited capacity for consular assistance. This advisory is particularly strong for eastern DRC (Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu) due to escalating conflict, shelling, and the presence of armed groups. The country is also facing an Ebola outbreak, declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, requiring travelers to take preventive measures and monitor health for 21 days after returning from affected areas. Irish citizens are urged to register their presence on the Citizen Registration platform.
Violent protests can occur suddenly in urban centers, posing risks to foreigners, and there is an ongoing threat of terrorist attacks in Kinshasa. Crime is rising, especially in Kinshasa, with aggressive robberies by street children and risks associated with public transport and ATMs after dark. Driving is extremely dangerous due to poor road conditions and security forces at numerous roadblocks, who may request bribes. The country has no Irish Embassy, and assistance is provided through the Irish Embassy in Tanzania. Travelers require a visa obtained in advance and a valid passport with at least six months' validity. Evidence of yellow fever and polio vaccination may be required for entry. Malaria is prevalent, and outbreaks of cholera, measles, and mpox also occur.
Violent protests can occur suddenly in urban centers, posing risks to foreigners, and there is an ongoing threat of terrorist attacks in Kinshasa. Crime is rising, especially in Kinshasa, with aggressive robberies by street children and risks associated with public transport and ATMs after dark. Driving is extremely dangerous due to poor road conditions and security forces at numerous roadblocks, who may request bribes. The country has no Irish Embassy, and assistance is provided through the Irish Embassy in Tanzania. Travelers require a visa obtained in advance and a valid passport with at least six months' validity. Evidence of yellow fever and polio vaccination may be required for entry. Malaria is prevalent, and outbreaks of cholera, measles, and mpox also occur.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
Updated: 2026-07-21
Japan has issued a "Level 4: Evacuate Immediately" advisory for several regions in the DRC, including Kasai provinces, Haut-Uélé, Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu, due to widespread massacres, kidnappings, and clashes between government forces and rebel groups. Other areas are under "Level 3: Avoid All Travel" or "Level 2: Avoid Non-Essential Travel" advisories. The country faces a significant threat of terrorism and kidnapping, especially in conflict-affected eastern regions, with over 100 armed groups active. The Japanese Embassy in Kinshasa has limited capacity to provide emergency assistance.
There is also an infectious disease risk advisory (Level 1: Exercise High Degree of Caution) for Ebola, with cases confirmed in eastern provinces. Travelers are strongly advised to avoid areas with Level 4 risk and to take extreme precautions in Level 3 and 2 areas, avoiding crowds and following local authorities' directives. For entry, a visa obtained in advance, an international certificate of vaccination against yellow fever (with a recommendation to update older certificates), and adherence to strict photography regulations are required. The Japanese Embassy advises travelers to register with 'Tabi-reji' for safety updates and to carry copies of their passport and visa.
There is also an infectious disease risk advisory (Level 1: Exercise High Degree of Caution) for Ebola, with cases confirmed in eastern provinces. Travelers are strongly advised to avoid areas with Level 4 risk and to take extreme precautions in Level 3 and 2 areas, avoiding crowds and following local authorities' directives. For entry, a visa obtained in advance, an international certificate of vaccination against yellow fever (with a recommendation to update older certificates), and adherence to strict photography regulations are required. The Japanese Embassy advises travelers to register with 'Tabi-reji' for safety updates and to carry copies of their passport and visa.
Auswärtiges Amt
Updated: 2026-07-09
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-08-23
New Zealand advises "Do Not Travel" to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) due to an unstable security situation, ongoing armed conflict, terrorism, and violent crime, particularly in eastern and northeastern provinces. An Ebola outbreak has been declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, leading to potential exit health screening and entry restrictions in other countries. New Zealand has no diplomatic presence in the DRC, severely limiting consular assistance. Violent crime, including armed robbery and "express kidnappings," is a significant issue, with foreigners often targeted. Terrorist threats are very high, with frequent and indiscriminate attacks on civilians and government targets.
The conflict in North Kivu has intensified, leading to hundreds of deaths and thousands displaced, with warnings to leave affected areas if safe. Inter-communal violence in Mai-Ndombe province has also caused deaths and displacement. Travelers are advised to exercise a high degree of security awareness, avoid public transport and hailing taxis, and carry photocopies of identification documents. Health services are limited, and medical evacuation is often necessary and costly. Travelers should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation.
The conflict in North Kivu has intensified, leading to hundreds of deaths and thousands displaced, with warnings to leave affected areas if safe. Inter-communal violence in Mai-Ndombe province has also caused deaths and displacement. Travelers are advised to exercise a high degree of security awareness, avoid public transport and hailing taxis, and carry photocopies of identification documents. Health services are limited, and medical evacuation is often necessary and costly. Travelers should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation.
Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE)
Updated: 2026-06-05
Switzerland advises against all tourist travel to the DRC, with specific warnings against visiting northeastern and eastern provinces due to intense fighting between armed groups, including the M23, and the Congolese army. These areas suffer from significant casualties, limited infrastructure, and frequent clashes. The border region with the Central African Republic and the Kwamouth area in Mai-Ndombe province are also advised against due to violence. Kinshasa experiences tense security with potential for violent demonstrations and roadblocks. The Swiss Embassy in Kinshasa has very limited emergency assistance capabilities.
There is a high risk of terrorist attacks and kidnappings, especially in conflict zones, and intercommunal tensions can lead to violent local conflicts. Travelers should exercise extreme caution, stay informed via media and local contacts, avoid crowds, and follow official directives. It is recommended to use trusted local contacts for travel arrangements and to travel in convoys during daylight. Photography of uniformed personnel, military sites, and public buildings is prohibited and can lead to detention. Travelers require a visa obtained in advance and must adhere to strict photography regulations.
There is a high risk of terrorist attacks and kidnappings, especially in conflict zones, and intercommunal tensions can lead to violent local conflicts. Travelers should exercise extreme caution, stay informed via media and local contacts, avoid crowds, and follow official directives. It is recommended to use trusted local contacts for travel arrangements and to travel in convoys during daylight. Photography of uniformed personnel, military sites, and public buildings is prohibited and can lead to detention. Travelers require a visa obtained in advance and must adhere to strict photography regulations.
Regjeringen (Norway)
Updated: 2026-05-27
Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands)
Updated: 2026-08-25
The Netherlands has issued a "Do Not Travel" advisory (color code red) for eastern and northern DRC, including Maï-Ndombe province, due to extreme danger from armed groups, ongoing conflict, and intercommunal violence. The remainder of the DRC is under an "Only Necessary Travel" advisory (color code orange). The country is facing an Ebola outbreak declared an international health emergency, potentially leading to travel restrictions and quarantine. Large demonstrations are anticipated, increasing the risk of violence and traffic disruptions. The Dutch embassy offers limited assistance in red-coded areas.
Criminality, including robberies and kidnappings, is prevalent, particularly in eastern DRC and Kinshasa's outskirts. Soldiers and police may also be involved in criminal activities. Travelers are advised against using public transport and hailing taxis, and to ensure secure accommodation. A valid international driving permit is required alongside a Dutch license for driving. Strict drug laws are in place, and LGBTQ+ individuals may face discrimination. Active volcanoes like Nyiragongo and earthquakes in the east pose natural risks. Entry requires a visa and a yellow fever vaccination certificate, with specific validity requirements.
Criminality, including robberies and kidnappings, is prevalent, particularly in eastern DRC and Kinshasa's outskirts. Soldiers and police may also be involved in criminal activities. Travelers are advised against using public transport and hailing taxis, and to ensure secure accommodation. A valid international driving permit is required alongside a Dutch license for driving. Strict drug laws are in place, and LGBTQ+ individuals may face discrimination. Active volcanoes like Nyiragongo and earthquakes in the east pose natural risks. Entry requires a visa and a yellow fever vaccination certificate, with specific validity requirements.
Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy)
Updated: 2026-05-18
Italy's "Viaggiare Sicuri" program strongly advises postponing all travel to the DRC due to the deteriorating security situation, especially in eastern provinces like North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri, where armed groups, including M23, are active. Frequent clashes, massacres, and kidnappings occur, coupled with limited transport and communication infrastructure. Kinshasa also experiences security incidents, including potentially violent demonstrations that can disrupt airport access. The DRC faces health emergencies like Ebola, malaria, cholera, measles, and mpox, with inadequate medical facilities. Travelers must obtain a visa before arrival and carry a passport valid for at least six months with two blank pages.
Registration on "Dove Siamo nel Mondo" or the "Viaggiare Sicuri" app is recommended, along with contacting the Italian Embassy in Kinshasa for assistance. Photography of government buildings, military sites, and security forces without authorization is prohibited and can lead to detention. Corruption is widespread, and travelers should exercise extreme caution, avoid crowds, and follow official directives. Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses and evacuation is essential. The country has specific currency regulations for import and export.
Registration on "Dove Siamo nel Mondo" or the "Viaggiare Sicuri" app is recommended, along with contacting the Italian Embassy in Kinshasa for assistance. Photography of government buildings, military sites, and security forces without authorization is prohibited and can lead to detention. Corruption is widespread, and travelers should exercise extreme caution, avoid crowds, and follow official directives. Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses and evacuation is essential. The country has specific currency regulations for import and export.
BMEIA (Austria)
Updated: 2026-08-24
Austria strongly warns against all travel to the DRC, classifying it as "Level 4: Travel Warning" due to severe risks to life and limb, with consular assistance being extremely limited. The country faces a high threat of terrorism and kidnapping, particularly in eastern regions affected by intense fighting involving armed groups like the M23. Crime is rampant, including armed robberies and express kidnappings targeting foreigners, sometimes involving police impersonators. An Ebola outbreak in Ituri Province necessitates adherence to prevention measures. Driving is hazardous, and public transport is unsafe.
Travelers are advised to register their travel and stay updated on the security situation. The Austrian Embassy in Kinshasa is temporarily closed, with limited support available. Dual nationality is not recognized. Entry requires a valid passport and a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Carrying a copy of one's passport or ID and being aware of potential corruption are recommended.
Travelers are advised to register their travel and stay updated on the security situation. The Austrian Embassy in Kinshasa is temporarily closed, with limited support available. Dual nationality is not recognized. Entry requires a valid passport and a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Carrying a copy of one's passport or ID and being aware of potential corruption are recommended.
0404 (Korea)
Updated: 2026-08-03
Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland)
Updated: 2026-08-14
Finland advises avoiding all travel to the DRC due to ongoing clashes between rebels and soldiers in the east, and widespread violent demonstrations in Kinshasa since January 2025. It highlights the unpredictable general security situation and the danger of movement in border areas with Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Central African Republic, and South Sudan due to violent robberies by rebel and criminal groups. The advisory notes that internet and mobile phone networks may be restricted during unrest.
Unique to this advisory is the specific guidance for Finnish citizens to make a travel notification to the Swedish Embassy in Kinshasa, as they assist Finns, and to use '0000' as the last part of the Swedish personal identification number if required. It warns that robbers often wear uniforms and that fake police are active, alongside street children and youth gangs. The advisory also mentions the WHO declaring an international emergency on August 14, 2024, due to a new variant of Mpox spreading in the DRC and neighboring countries, a specific detail about the severity of the outbreak.
Unique to this advisory is the specific guidance for Finnish citizens to make a travel notification to the Swedish Embassy in Kinshasa, as they assist Finns, and to use '0000' as the last part of the Swedish personal identification number if required. It warns that robbers often wear uniforms and that fake police are active, alongside street children and youth gangs. The advisory also mentions the WHO declaring an international emergency on August 14, 2024, due to a new variant of Mpox spreading in the DRC and neighboring countries, a specific detail about the severity of the outbreak.
Important: This is an aggregated summary from multiple government sources. Always consult official government travel advisory websites before making travel decisions.
About Travel Advisories for Democratic Republic of the Congo
This comprehensive travel advisory page for Democratic Republic of the Congo aggregates official government warnings and recommendations from eight major international sources. Each country's foreign affairs department maintains its own travel advisory system based on unique assessment criteria, intelligence gathering, and diplomatic considerations.
The United States Department of State, Global Affairs Canada, UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Australia's Smartraveller, France's Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs, and Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs each provide independent assessments of travel risks to Democratic Republic of the Congo.
By comparing these multiple perspectives, travelers can gain a more complete understanding of the current situation in Democratic Republic of the Congo and make better-informed decisions about their travel plans. Remember to always check the official government websites directly before finalizing any travel arrangements.
Last updated: 2026-08-26