Travel Advisory for Guam
This page provides a comprehensive comparison of official government travel advisories for Guam 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 Guam.
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: 2026-07-30
AdvisoryAtlas.com Risk Level
Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions
AdvisoryAtlas.com Safety Index
78
Safety Index Score
Overview
Guam, a U.S. territory, generally advises normal security precautions for travelers, offering a blend of familiar American standards with unique island considerations. Visitors should be mindful of tropical weather, potential petty crime, and specific entry requirements, ensuring a well-prepared and enjoyable visit.
Detailed Advisory Summary
Guam, an unincorporated U.S. territory, generally requires visitors to exercise normal safety precautions. While it shares many legal and administrative frameworks with the United States, its island location and unique historical context present specific considerations for travelers. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is a concern, particularly in tourist areas and on public transport, necessitating vigilance with personal belongings and avoiding unlit areas after dark. Road conditions can vary, with major roads potentially poorly maintained and unlit, and southern roads prone to flooding during the rainy season, which runs from July to December. Typhoons are common during this period, and the island is also in an active seismic zone, making awareness of earthquake and tsunami risks crucial. Travelers should monitor local media for weather updates and familiarize themselves with evacuation plans.
Health services are generally good, comparable to U.S. standards in private facilities, but medical costs can be high, making comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage essential. Insect-borne diseases like dengue are present, so insect protection is highly recommended. Unexploded ordnance from World War II may still pose a risk in certain areas, including beaches and diving spots, requiring caution and a strict 'do not touch' policy for unknown items. Entry requirements generally align with those for the United States, although specific visa waiver programs like the G-CNMI ETA exist for direct travel to Guam/CNMI for shorter stays. All arriving passengers must complete a mandatory Guam Electronic Declaration Form.
Dual citizenship is recognized by the U.S., but dual nationals should be aware of potential limitations on consular assistance from their other country of citizenship. Penalties for drug offenses, including cannabis (which is federally illegal despite local conditional legalization), are severe. Driving requires an International Driving Permit for stays over 30 days for some nationalities, and caution is advised due to local driving habits and road conditions. Overall, a proactive approach to safety and adherence to local guidelines will ensure a smooth trip.
Health services are generally good, comparable to U.S. standards in private facilities, but medical costs can be high, making comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage essential. Insect-borne diseases like dengue are present, so insect protection is highly recommended. Unexploded ordnance from World War II may still pose a risk in certain areas, including beaches and diving spots, requiring caution and a strict 'do not touch' policy for unknown items. Entry requirements generally align with those for the United States, although specific visa waiver programs like the G-CNMI ETA exist for direct travel to Guam/CNMI for shorter stays. All arriving passengers must complete a mandatory Guam Electronic Declaration Form.
Dual citizenship is recognized by the U.S., but dual nationals should be aware of potential limitations on consular assistance from their other country of citizenship. Penalties for drug offenses, including cannabis (which is federally illegal despite local conditional legalization), are severe. Driving requires an International Driving Permit for stays over 30 days for some nationalities, and caution is advised due to local driving habits and road conditions. Overall, a proactive approach to safety and adherence to local guidelines will ensure a smooth trip.
Risk Level Summary by Government Source
| Source | Risk Level | Updated | Official Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global Affairs Canada | Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions | 2026-07-29 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions | 2026-07-27 | View Source → |
| Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan | Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions | 2026-07-21 | View Source → |
| New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions | 2026-07-07 | View Source → |
| Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy) | Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions | 2026-03-03 | View Source → |
Safety and Security Analysis
Vaccination Information
Recommended for Most Travelers
- Ensure your routine vaccinations (e.g., Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio, Varicella, Meningococcal disease, Seasonal Flu) are up-to-date.
- Vaccination for Hepatitis A is recommended for all travelers due to risk in the destination.
- Vaccination for Hepatitis B is recommended for all travelers as it is a risk in every destination.
Recommended for Some Travelers
- Vaccination for Typhoid fever may be recommended for travelers at higher risk in places with poor sanitation or limited clean water.
- Consider Rabies vaccination if you will be working directly with wildlife, as rabies may be present in some wildlife like bats.
- Discuss COVID-19 vaccination with a healthcare provider before traveling, as it is effective in preventing serious illness.
There is no risk of yellow fever in Guam, and proof of vaccination is not required for entry. Medical services are generally good, but it is highly recommended to consult a travel health care provider to discuss appropriate vaccines and medications based on your travel plans. Always practice safe food and water precautions and protect yourself from insect bites.
Visa Information
Visa Types
| Type | Requirement | Stay Limit | Cost | Conditions | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist (US Visa Waiver Program) | e-Visa (ESTA) | 90 days | Paid | For short-term business/tourism, valid IC chip passport, does not guarantee entry. |
|
| Tourist (Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program) | e-Visa (G-CNMI ETA) | 45 days | Free | For direct travel to Guam/CNMI only, using participating airlines, does not allow onward US travel. |
|
| General US Visa | Embassy | Varies by visa type | Check Embassy | For stays over 90 days or specific purposes not covered by waiver programs. |
|
| All Arrivals | Digital Form | N/A | Free | Mandatory for all passengers arriving in Guam, regardless of visa status. |
|
Entry & Legal Compliance
- Passport Validity Needed: 6 months beyond intended stay
- Blank Pages Required: 2
- Dual Citizenship Policy: Recognized by the United States, but may affect consular assistance from other citizenship country.
- Proof Of Onward Travel: Not explicitly stated as strictly enforced, but airlines may require it and it is highly recommended.
- Currency Limit Declaration: US$10,000 or equivalent in cash or monetary instruments.
- Drone Usage Law: No specific drone usage laws mentioned; check with local authorities for any new regulations or restrictions.
Emergency Contacts
- Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 911
- Guam Police Department: +1-671-649-6330 or +1-671-649-9526
- Tumon Precinct: +1-671-632-9808 or +1-671-632-9811
- Consulate General of Australia (Honolulu): +1-808-529-8100 (For Australian citizens)
- Australian 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre: +61-2-6261-3305 (From overseas)
- Canadian Citizen Services: +1-844-880-6519 or ccs.scc@international.gc.ca (For Canadian citizens during business hours)
- Emergency Watch and Response Centre (Ottawa): (Contact for Canadian citizens for emergency assistance at any time)
- Consulate General of Italy (San Francisco): +1-415-292-9200 (For Italian citizens)
- Italian Emergency Mobile: +1-415-999-0094 (For Italian citizens)
- Consulate General of Japan (Hagåtña): +1-671-646-1290 or +1-671-646-5220 (For Japanese citizens)
- New Zealand Consulate-General (Honolulu): +1-808-675-5555 (For New Zealand citizens)
Common Scams & Tourist Traps
- Petty theft is common, with pickpocketing and purse snatching occurring in crowded areas and on public transport.
- Car break-ins are a notable risk, especially in parking lots at beaches, viewpoints, and shopping centers; rental cars are often targeted.
- Some taxi drivers may overcharge clients, so it's advisable to negotiate fares in advance or insist on the meter.
- Drink spiking can occur anywhere; travelers should be alert, never leave drinks unattended, and watch them being prepared.
- There are general warnings about international romance scams and 'darkバイト' (illegal job scams) targeting individuals overseas, although not specific to Guam, vigilance is advised.
Cultural Etiquette in Guam
Do
- Respect local customs and history, especially concerning World War II, as it's a sensitive topic for older residents.
- Dress modestly when in public places, cities, or shopping centers, reserving swimwear for beaches and resorts.
- Follow instructions and warnings from local authorities, particularly during natural disasters or security alerts.
- Be aware of your surroundings and protect valuables, especially in crowded areas or when using public transport.
- Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas due to powerful currents.
Don't
- Do not resist if you are the victim of a robbery or mugging, as this could lead to serious harm, especially if weapons are involved.
- Do not touch unexploded ordnance or war remnants; report them to local authorities immediately.
- Do not leave children unattended in cars for more than 15 minutes, as this is considered illegal and child abuse.
- Do not publicly scold or physically punish children loudly, as it may be perceived as child abuse by local standards.
- Do not drive under the influence of alcohol, as penalties are extremely severe, and the legal drinking age is 21.
Advisory Comparison by Government Source
Global Affairs Canada
Updated: 2026-07-29
The Canadian advisory for Guam emphasizes normal security precautions, highlighting specific risks related to adventure sports and unexploded ordnance. It strongly recommends choosing reputable companies for activities like diving and ensuring travel insurance covers recreational pursuits. A unique caution is issued regarding unexploded ordnance from World War II found in various areas, including beaches and diving spots, stressing the importance of not touching unknown items and reporting them.
The advisory also provides detailed insights into road safety, noting that major roads may be poorly maintained and lit, and southern roads are prone to flooding during the rainy season. It advises against driving after dark and being vigilant for stray animals. Furthermore, it includes a mention of Ebola disease outbreak measures that some countries have imposed, which could affect entry and health screening for travelers.
For Canadian citizens, the advisory details consular assistance options, including contacting Canadian Citizen Services or the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa. It also notes the availability of assistance from the resident Australian government office under a consular services sharing agreement, providing alternative support channels.
The advisory also provides detailed insights into road safety, noting that major roads may be poorly maintained and lit, and southern roads are prone to flooding during the rainy season. It advises against driving after dark and being vigilant for stray animals. Furthermore, it includes a mention of Ebola disease outbreak measures that some countries have imposed, which could affect entry and health screening for travelers.
For Canadian citizens, the advisory details consular assistance options, including contacting Canadian Citizen Services or the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa. It also notes the availability of assistance from the resident Australian government office under a consular services sharing agreement, providing alternative support channels.
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-07-27
The Australian Smartraveller advice for Guam also recommends exercising normal safety precautions, but provides specific context regarding the impact of Super Typhoons Bavi and Sinlaku. It notes that infrastructure damage and disruption to essential services may still be ongoing, urging travelers to exercise caution and follow local authorities' instructions in affected areas. A key highlight is the emphasis on high medical costs in Guam and the necessity of comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, acknowledging that flights from Guam are limited and can delay such evacuations.
Unique to this advice are detailed warnings about drink spiking and methanol poisoning, advising travelers to be alert, never leave drinks unattended, and only consume branded, sealed beverages. It also clarifies the dual nationality policy for Australian-U.S. citizens, stating they must travel with both passports and use their U.S. passport for entry and exit. The advisory points out that entry requirements for Guam are the same as for the United States, and all arriving passengers must complete a mandatory electronic declaration form up to 72 hours prior to departure.
Regarding crime, the Australian advice specifically mentions drug- and alcohol-related crime and warns that rental cars can be easily spotted and targeted by thieves. It advises protecting valuables and not leaving them in parked cars or unattended at the beach. The advice also includes a general warning about terrorism being a worldwide threat, with Guam included in the U.S. National Terror Advisory System.
Unique to this advice are detailed warnings about drink spiking and methanol poisoning, advising travelers to be alert, never leave drinks unattended, and only consume branded, sealed beverages. It also clarifies the dual nationality policy for Australian-U.S. citizens, stating they must travel with both passports and use their U.S. passport for entry and exit. The advisory points out that entry requirements for Guam are the same as for the United States, and all arriving passengers must complete a mandatory electronic declaration form up to 72 hours prior to departure.
Regarding crime, the Australian advice specifically mentions drug- and alcohol-related crime and warns that rental cars can be easily spotted and targeted by thieves. It advises protecting valuables and not leaving them in parked cars or unattended at the beach. The advice also includes a general warning about terrorism being a worldwide threat, with Guam included in the U.S. National Terror Advisory System.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
Updated: 2026-07-21
The Japanese advisory for Guam provides a more detailed assessment of crime risk, noting that the number of reported crimes in Guam is high (14,832 cases in 2023), with property crimes accounting for about 40%. It explicitly states that the possibility of being involved in crime is higher than in Japan, citing multiple incidents involving Japanese tourists, such as beach theft, robbery on 'Hotel Road,' and car break-ins in parking lots. A specific warning is included about a robbery-murder incident involving a Korean traveler near Gun Beach in January 2024, emphasizing the danger of night-time travel.
Unique insights are provided on entry requirements for Japanese citizens, differentiating between the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) and the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program (G-CNMI ETA). It clarifies that while G-CNMI ETA is free and allows 45-day stays for direct travel to Guam/CNMI, using it will limit the stay to 45 days even if an ESTA is held. The advisory also touches on specific local laws, such as the conditional legalization of recreational cannabis for adults over 21 in Guam, but reiterates its illegality under Japanese law for citizens even when overseas.
Furthermore, the Japanese advisory provides unique cultural and social advice, including warnings about child discipline practices that might be considered abuse (e.g., public scolding, leaving children in cars). It also highlights traffic specifics like vehicles being able to turn right on a red light, requiring pedestrians to be extra cautious. The advisory strongly recommends carrying a copy of your passport and avoiding resistance if robbed, due to the potential for severe consequences involving firearms or knives.
Unique insights are provided on entry requirements for Japanese citizens, differentiating between the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) and the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program (G-CNMI ETA). It clarifies that while G-CNMI ETA is free and allows 45-day stays for direct travel to Guam/CNMI, using it will limit the stay to 45 days even if an ESTA is held. The advisory also touches on specific local laws, such as the conditional legalization of recreational cannabis for adults over 21 in Guam, but reiterates its illegality under Japanese law for citizens even when overseas.
Furthermore, the Japanese advisory provides unique cultural and social advice, including warnings about child discipline practices that might be considered abuse (e.g., public scolding, leaving children in cars). It also highlights traffic specifics like vehicles being able to turn right on a red light, requiring pedestrians to be extra cautious. The advisory strongly recommends carrying a copy of your passport and avoiding resistance if robbed, due to the potential for severe consequences involving firearms or knives.
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-07-07
The New Zealand advisory for Guam provides a concise overview, also recommending normal safety and security precautions. It highlights the ongoing risks from unexploded ordnance from World War II, found in areas like beaches and construction sites, and advises against touching unknown items. The advisory uniquely points to the Guam Office of Homeland Security and Civil Defense as a key resource for security alerts and emergency preparedness, providing their social media handles (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram) for real-time updates.
Health advice from New Zealand focuses on insect-borne diseases like dengue, recommending insect-proofing accommodation, using repellent, and wearing protective clothing. It also offers regional health advice for the Pacific, noting that medical services can be limited and stressing the importance of comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation. The advisory suggests checking routine immunizations and considering additional ones like Tetanus, Hepatitis A, and Typhoid, available through travel medicine clinics.
For New Zealanders, the advisory confirms that Guam is an unincorporated territory of the United States, directing travelers to the USA travel advisory for broader context. It reiterates that penalties for drug offenses are severe, including lengthy imprisonment and heavy fines. The New Zealand Consulate-General in Honolulu is listed as the nearest office for consular assistance.
Health advice from New Zealand focuses on insect-borne diseases like dengue, recommending insect-proofing accommodation, using repellent, and wearing protective clothing. It also offers regional health advice for the Pacific, noting that medical services can be limited and stressing the importance of comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation. The advisory suggests checking routine immunizations and considering additional ones like Tetanus, Hepatitis A, and Typhoid, available through travel medicine clinics.
For New Zealanders, the advisory confirms that Guam is an unincorporated territory of the United States, directing travelers to the USA travel advisory for broader context. It reiterates that penalties for drug offenses are severe, including lengthy imprisonment and heavy fines. The New Zealand Consulate-General in Honolulu is listed as the nearest office for consular assistance.
Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy)
Updated: 2026-03-03
The Italian advisory for Guam emphasizes that the legal system aligns with U.S. regulations and advises normal safety precautions. It specifically highlights environmental risks, noting that Guam is subject to frequent seismic events that could cause tsunamis and that some ocean spots are dangerous for inexperienced divers due to strong currents. A unique warning is issued regarding marine hazards, including celenterates, poisonous fish, and water snakes, which travelers should be aware of during swimming and water activities.
Health information from the Italian source details the presence of several diseases, including Filariasis Cardiopolmonare, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Japanese encephalitis, and animal rabies, in addition to Hepatitis A/B and Tuberculosis. It notes that while the general health situation is good, comparable to U.S. standards, specialized medical care might be limited, recommending comprehensive travel insurance for potential medical evacuation or long-term treatment in Italy.
The advisory also includes cultural etiquette, advising against offending local sensibilities by wearing swimwear or short pants in cities and public places. It recommends visiting remote areas with a local guide for safety and assistance. For Italian citizens, the Consulate General of Italy in San Francisco is identified as the competent authority for consular services, along with an emergency mobile number.
Health information from the Italian source details the presence of several diseases, including Filariasis Cardiopolmonare, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Japanese encephalitis, and animal rabies, in addition to Hepatitis A/B and Tuberculosis. It notes that while the general health situation is good, comparable to U.S. standards, specialized medical care might be limited, recommending comprehensive travel insurance for potential medical evacuation or long-term treatment in Italy.
The advisory also includes cultural etiquette, advising against offending local sensibilities by wearing swimwear or short pants in cities and public places. It recommends visiting remote areas with a local guide for safety and assistance. For Italian citizens, the Consulate General of Italy in San Francisco is identified as the competent authority for consular services, along with an emergency mobile number.
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 Guam
This comprehensive travel advisory page for Guam 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 Guam.
By comparing these multiple perspectives, travelers can gain a more complete understanding of the current situation in Guam 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: 2026-07-30