Travel Advisory for Republic of Guinea-Bissau
This page provides a comprehensive comparison of official government travel advisories for Republic of Guinea-Bissau 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 Republic of Guinea-Bissau.
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: 2026-05-24
AdvisoryAtlas.com Risk Level
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Range: Level 2 to Level 3
AdvisoryAtlas.com Safety Index
35
Safety Index Score
Overview
Guinea-Bissau is characterized by significant political instability, high crime rates, and weak state infrastructure, necessitating a high degree of caution for all travelers. Landmines and unexploded ordnance remain a hazard in rural areas, particularly near the Senegalese border. Medical facilities are extremely limited, and emergency services are unreliable.
Detailed Advisory Summary
Travel to Guinea-Bissau requires a heightened level of vigilance due to its complex political landscape and security challenges. The country has experienced multiple periods of political unrest, including recent coups and attempted coups, which can lead to demonstrations and disruptions to essential services. While calm may be restored, the underlying political situation remains uncertain, and travelers should monitor local media and avoid large gatherings.
Crime rates are high, encompassing petty theft, pickpocketing, road banditry, and carjacking, especially in the capital, Bissau, and its surrounding areas. Foreigners are often targeted due to perceived wealth, making it crucial to avoid displaying valuables and to take precautions like keeping car doors locked and windows closed. Night travel, whether by foot or vehicle, is strongly discouraged due to poor road conditions and increased crime risk. Certain border regions, particularly with Senegal, are considered highly dangerous due to the presence of armed groups and the persistent threat of landmines, which are not always clearly marked. Travelers must stick to paved main roads and seek local advice when venturing outside Bissau.
Health infrastructure is severely inadequate throughout the country. Access to quality medical care, even for minor issues, is limited, often requiring medical evacuation to Senegal or Europe at the traveler's expense. Pharmacies are poorly regulated, and the availability of safe medications is a concern. Comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation coverage, is therefore essential. The country is also endemic for several diseases, including malaria, yellow fever, and cholera, necessitating strict adherence to vaccination schedules and preventive measures. Telecommunications and other basic infrastructure like electricity and water are often unreliable and expensive. The economy is predominantly cash-based, with limited acceptance of credit cards and few reliable ATMs. Overall, Guinea-Bissau presents a challenging environment for travelers, demanding thorough preparation and constant awareness.
Crime rates are high, encompassing petty theft, pickpocketing, road banditry, and carjacking, especially in the capital, Bissau, and its surrounding areas. Foreigners are often targeted due to perceived wealth, making it crucial to avoid displaying valuables and to take precautions like keeping car doors locked and windows closed. Night travel, whether by foot or vehicle, is strongly discouraged due to poor road conditions and increased crime risk. Certain border regions, particularly with Senegal, are considered highly dangerous due to the presence of armed groups and the persistent threat of landmines, which are not always clearly marked. Travelers must stick to paved main roads and seek local advice when venturing outside Bissau.
Health infrastructure is severely inadequate throughout the country. Access to quality medical care, even for minor issues, is limited, often requiring medical evacuation to Senegal or Europe at the traveler's expense. Pharmacies are poorly regulated, and the availability of safe medications is a concern. Comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation coverage, is therefore essential. The country is also endemic for several diseases, including malaria, yellow fever, and cholera, necessitating strict adherence to vaccination schedules and preventive measures. Telecommunications and other basic infrastructure like electricity and water are often unreliable and expensive. The economy is predominantly cash-based, with limited acceptance of credit cards and few reliable ATMs. Overall, Guinea-Bissau presents a challenging environment for travelers, demanding thorough preparation and constant awareness.
Risk Level Summary by Government Source
| Source | Risk Level | Updated | Official Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global Affairs Canada | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-05-07 | View Source → |
| U.S. Department of State | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-05-21 | View Source → |
| Ministère des Affaires Étrangères | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-05-21 | View Source → |
| Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-02-24 | View Source → |
| Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-05-18 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-04-23 | View Source → |
| Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-17 | View Source → |
| Auswärtiges Amt | Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions | 2026-04-21 | View Source → |
| New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-02-26 | View Source → |
| Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-02-23 | View Source → |
| Regjeringen (Norway) | Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions | 2026-03-04 | View Source → |
| Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands) | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-05-25 | View Source → |
| Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-03-03 | View Source → |
| BMEIA (Austria) | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-05-07 | View Source → |
| 0404 (Korea) | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-04-22 | View Source → |
Safety and Security Analysis
Vaccination Information
Required Vaccines
- Yellow Fever: Proof of vaccination is mandatory for all travelers 9 months or 1 year and older, depending on the source.
Recommended for Most Travelers
- Routine Vaccines: Ensure vaccinations for measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), and polio are up-to-date.
- Hepatitis A: Vaccination is recommended for all travelers due to the risk of contaminated food and water.
- Typhoid: Recommended for most travelers, especially those visiting areas with poor sanitation or consuming unsafe food/water.
- Malaria: Antimalarial medication is recommended for most travelers to this destination due to high risk.
Recommended for Some Travelers
- Hepatitis B: Recommended for travelers with frequent or prolonged stays or potential exposure to blood/body fluids.
- Meningococcal disease (ACWY): Recommended for high-risk travelers, such as those living or working with local populations or during dry season outbreaks.
- Tuberculosis: Recommended for children under 15 with frequent or prolonged stays, or high-risk exposure.
- Rabies: Recommended for high-risk individuals (veterinarians, wildlife workers, children, adventure travelers) due to common presence in animals.
- Chikungunya: Consider vaccination or protection from mosquito bites, especially during epidemics or prolonged stays.
- Dengue: Protection from mosquito bites is crucial; vaccination may be indicated in certain cases or during active epidemics.
- Mpox: Vaccination is recommended for eligible individuals in case of exposure risk.
- Influenza: An annual flu shot is recommended at least 2 weeks before travel, especially during flu season.
Always consult a travel health care provider well in advance of your trip to determine appropriate vaccines and medications based on your travel plans and health status. Practice safe food and water precautions diligently, including boiling, cooking, or peeling food, and drinking only bottled or purified water. Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times by using repellent, wearing protective clothing, and sleeping under insecticide-treated nets. Be aware of the African Meningitis Belt and the risk of meningococcal disease. Ensure your personal pharmacy includes necessary prescription medications in their original packaging, accompanied by a doctor's prescription, as local supplies are limited and potentially counterfeit.
Visa Information
Visa Types
| Type | Requirement | Stay Limit | Cost | Conditions | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist | Embassy / VoA | 1 month (extendable) | €70.00 for 45 days / €110.00 for 90 days / €200.00 for 180 days | Can be obtained at Bissau airport with prior notification or in transit countries. |
|
| Business | Embassy / VoA | 1, 3, 6, or 12 months (multiple entry) | Check Embassy | No distinction from tourist visa, multiple entry options available. |
|
| Student | Embassy | Check Embassy | Check Embassy | Specific requirements not detailed, inquire at embassy. |
|
Entry & Legal Compliance
- Passport Validity Needed: 6 months beyond arrival date
- Blank Pages Required: 1
- Dual Citizenship Policy: Recognized
- Proof Of Onward Travel: Required by authorities
- Currency Limit Declaration: $10,000 USD or 5,000,000 f CFA (from outside ECOWAS)
- Drone Usage Law: No specific information available
Emergency Contacts
- Police: 117 (General Police, also 112 for general emergencies)
- Medical Assistance / Ambulance: 119 (General Ambulance, also 1313 mentioned by GB, 112 for general emergencies)
- Firefighters: 118
- Judicial Police (24h): 00245/95 575 6363
- Emergency Watch and Response Centre (Canada): Contact via Embassy in Dakar
- Emergency (France, outside office hours): 00221 33 839 52 62 (Consulate General in Dakar)
- Emergency (Ireland): 00353 (0)1 408 2000 (Duty Officer, Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin)
- Emergency (Netherlands): +31 247 247 247 (Contact Center Netherlands Worldwide)
- Emergency (Italy, outside office hours): 00221 78 309 07 14 (Embassy in Dakar)
Common Scams & Tourist Traps
- Be wary of financial and romance scams that often begin online, with scammers claiming to be U.S. military personnel or in urgent need of money.
- Exercise caution with individuals asking for money, especially those claiming detention or hospitalization abroad, as these are common scam tactics.
- Avoid offers related to gold and gem purchases, free trips, lotteries, or inheritance notices, as these are frequently used in scams.
Cultural Etiquette in Republic of Guinea-Bissau
Do
- Always carry identification such as a passport photocopy or residence permit, as police regularly request ID.
- Be discreet and respect local customs and traditions, as Guinea-Bissau is a conservative society.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities and security forces diligently, especially during periods of political instability.
Don't
- Do not physically resist any robbery attempt, as assailants may be armed and violent.
- Avoid walking alone after dark or in remote areas, as the risk of crime increases at night.
- Do not photograph military installations, government buildings, or persons in uniform, as this is strictly prohibited and can lead to arrest.
- Do not display large sums of money or valuable jewelry in public, as this can make you a target for opportunistic crime.
Advisory Comparison by Government Source
Global Affairs Canada
Updated: 2026-05-07
The Canadian advisory emphasizes a "high degree of caution" due to high crime rates and weak state infrastructure, specifically highlighting road banditry and carjacking risks. It uniquely details a recent political instability event on November 26, 2025, where the army seized power, suspending the electoral process. The advisory also provides specific warnings for the Bijagós Islands, advising against unsafe pirogues and recommending chartered air services or tour operators.
It offers detailed health information, including specific regions outside Bissau where unexploded ordnance and antipersonnel mines are still present. The advisory also notes that telecommunications are expensive and unreliable, and infrastructure for electricity and water is inadequate. For administrative details, it clarifies that Guinea-Bissau does not participate in the international driving permit program, and outlines specific requirements for Canadian citizens driving for longer than 3 months.
Unique to this source is the mention of dual citizenship being legally recognized in Guinea-Bissau, but with a caveat that consular services for dual citizens may be limited. It also provides a specific date for a recent political event (November 26, 2025), offering a very current context for the political instability.
It offers detailed health information, including specific regions outside Bissau where unexploded ordnance and antipersonnel mines are still present. The advisory also notes that telecommunications are expensive and unreliable, and infrastructure for electricity and water is inadequate. For administrative details, it clarifies that Guinea-Bissau does not participate in the international driving permit program, and outlines specific requirements for Canadian citizens driving for longer than 3 months.
Unique to this source is the mention of dual citizenship being legally recognized in Guinea-Bissau, but with a caveat that consular services for dual citizens may be limited. It also provides a specific date for a recent political event (November 26, 2025), offering a very current context for the political instability.
U.S. Department of State
Updated: 2026-05-21
The U.S. advisory recommends "Reconsider Travel" due to unrest, inadequate health infrastructure, and landmines, noting the November 2025 political unrest. It explicitly states there is no U.S. embassy or consulate in Guinea-Bissau, with consular services handled by the U.S. Embassy in Dakar, Senegal, which limits the U.S. government's ability to provide emergency services.
This source provides detailed information on currency declaration limits, specifying amounts for arrivals from within and outside the ECOWAS region. It also offers extensive advice on various scams, including financial, romance, and online dating scams, and provides tips for protecting against them. For health, it highlights that locally available medications may be limited and unsafe, and medical evacuation is often required at the traveler's expense.
Unique to this advisory is the specific mention of Bandim Market, Mindara, and Reino neighborhoods as areas where street criminals frequently target foreigners. It also details the poor training and lack of resources for emergency staff, and provides comprehensive guidance for victims of crime, including how the U.S. embassy can assist with lost passports and finding medical care. The advisory also provides specific advice for travelers considering Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) or surrogacy in Guinea-Bissau, noting the lack of legal protections and potential delays.
This source provides detailed information on currency declaration limits, specifying amounts for arrivals from within and outside the ECOWAS region. It also offers extensive advice on various scams, including financial, romance, and online dating scams, and provides tips for protecting against them. For health, it highlights that locally available medications may be limited and unsafe, and medical evacuation is often required at the traveler's expense.
Unique to this advisory is the specific mention of Bandim Market, Mindara, and Reino neighborhoods as areas where street criminals frequently target foreigners. It also details the poor training and lack of resources for emergency staff, and provides comprehensive guidance for victims of crime, including how the U.S. embassy can assist with lost passports and finding medical care. The advisory also provides specific advice for travelers considering Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) or surrogacy in Guinea-Bissau, noting the lack of legal protections and potential delays.
Ministère des Affaires Étrangères
Updated: 2026-05-21
The French advisory warns against non-essential travel to the border area with Senegal due to potential trafficking, tensions, security incidents, and the presence of landmines, advising travelers to stick to main paved roads. It highlights the risk of political instability, referencing a 2015-2020 crisis and potential demonstrations, and strongly recommends avoiding all gatherings. The advisory specifically mentions the Bissau-Ziguinchor road and the need to remain on the main paved route from Ingoré to Mpack.
It provides practical safety advice for navigating the capital and its suburbs, such as keeping car windows closed and doors locked, and avoiding carrying significant sums of money or jewelry. The advisory also details the limited capacity of the French Embassy in Guinea-Bissau for assistance, directing most administrative matters to the Consulate General in Dakar. For health, it explicitly states that yellow fever vaccination is mandatory and that cholera is endemic, recommending specific hygiene practices.
Unique insights include the warning about road cutters on secondary axes at night and the specific instruction to notify the Consulate General in Dakar (bulletin.dakar-fslt@diplomatie.gouv.fr) for essential travel along the border. It also specifies that a local driving permit is required after 3 months for foreign drivers, similar to the Canadian advice but with different contact points.
It provides practical safety advice for navigating the capital and its suburbs, such as keeping car windows closed and doors locked, and avoiding carrying significant sums of money or jewelry. The advisory also details the limited capacity of the French Embassy in Guinea-Bissau for assistance, directing most administrative matters to the Consulate General in Dakar. For health, it explicitly states that yellow fever vaccination is mandatory and that cholera is endemic, recommending specific hygiene practices.
Unique insights include the warning about road cutters on secondary axes at night and the specific instruction to notify the Consulate General in Dakar (bulletin.dakar-fslt@diplomatie.gouv.fr) for essential travel along the border. It also specifies that a local driving permit is required after 3 months for foreign drivers, similar to the Canadian advice but with different contact points.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
Updated: 2026-02-24
The UK advisory highlights a "high degree of caution" due to political instability and crime, specifically mentioning that attacks cannot be ruled out, including in places frequented by foreign nationals. It uniquely states that the national demining centre (CAAMI) declared Bissau free from landmines, but risks persist outside the capital, advising travelers to stay on paved roads. It also details that the currency is the West African Financial Community franc (XOF).
For entry, it specifies that a passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after arrival and that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory. The advisory also provides contact information for the Guinea-Bissau Embassy in Paris for visa inquiries. It explicitly states that same-sex sexual relationships are not criminalized but notes that Guinea-Bissau is a conservative society where public affection may attract negative attention.
Unique to this source is the mention of 1313 as the emergency medical number (in addition to 119 from other sources) and that pharmacies in Guinea-Bissau are limited, may lack supplies, and do not have accreditation with UK insurance companies. It also provides specific details on driving with a UK photocard driving license for up to 3 months and recommends ECOWAS Brown Card scheme car insurance.
For entry, it specifies that a passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after arrival and that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory. The advisory also provides contact information for the Guinea-Bissau Embassy in Paris for visa inquiries. It explicitly states that same-sex sexual relationships are not criminalized but notes that Guinea-Bissau is a conservative society where public affection may attract negative attention.
Unique to this source is the mention of 1313 as the emergency medical number (in addition to 119 from other sources) and that pharmacies in Guinea-Bissau are limited, may lack supplies, and do not have accreditation with UK insurance companies. It also provides specific details on driving with a UK photocard driving license for up to 3 months and recommends ECOWAS Brown Card scheme car insurance.
Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores
Updated: 2026-05-18
Spain provides a highly detailed breakdown of economic crimes like the 'gold scam.' It also offers specific advice on local medical clinics and the importance of hiring established travel agencies.
Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland)
Updated: 2026-04-23
The Irish advisory advises a "High Degree of Caution" due to political instability and crime, echoing other sources. It uniquely classifies Guinea-Bissau as having a risk of Zika virus transmission, specifically advising Irish citizens, especially those with weakened immune systems or who are pregnant/planning pregnancy, to follow guidance from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC).
It provides specific visa costs based on the length of stay (€70.00 for 45 days, €110.00 for 90 days, €200.00 for 180 days), and lists the addresses of the Guinea-Bissau Embassies in Paris and Lisbon for visa applications. The advisory also emphasizes that if a passport is lost or stolen, a police report is needed for travel insurance claims and for the Irish Embassy to issue an emergency travel document.
Unique to this source is the explicit advice to take a number of photocopies of your passport and carry one at all times for identification purposes. It also clarifies that passport cards cannot be used for entry. The advisory highlights the limited assistance the Irish Embassy can offer due to no diplomatic presence in Guinea-Bissau, directing citizens to the Embassy in Lisbon or the Duty Officer in Dublin.
It provides specific visa costs based on the length of stay (€70.00 for 45 days, €110.00 for 90 days, €200.00 for 180 days), and lists the addresses of the Guinea-Bissau Embassies in Paris and Lisbon for visa applications. The advisory also emphasizes that if a passport is lost or stolen, a police report is needed for travel insurance claims and for the Irish Embassy to issue an emergency travel document.
Unique to this source is the explicit advice to take a number of photocopies of your passport and carry one at all times for identification purposes. It also clarifies that passport cards cannot be used for entry. The advisory highlights the limited assistance the Irish Embassy can offer due to no diplomatic presence in Guinea-Bissau, directing citizens to the Embassy in Lisbon or the Duty Officer in Dublin.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
Updated: 2026-05-17
The Japanese advisory issues a "Level 3: Do Not Travel" warning for Cacheu State and Level 2: Avoid Non-Essential Travel for other regions, citing political instability, coup attempts, and Cacheu State as a rear base for a faction of the MFDC (Casamance Democratic Forces Movement) rebels. It highlights recent sporadic attacks and landmine incidents in Cacheu.
It specifically mentions that Guinea-Bissau is an international transit point for drug smuggling and that firearms are widely circulated. The advisory warns that in case of armed robbery, prioritizing personal safety and absolutely not resisting is crucial. It also notes that photographing airports, ports, military, police, and other government facilities is prohibited.
Unique to this source is the explicit warning about the MFDC presence in Cacheu State and the potential for rapid deterioration of public safety due to political instability. It also advises against approaching religious facilities on Fridays due to the potential for political speeches and demonstrations turning violent. The advisory also states that visa on arrival is generally not possible, requiring pre-arrival acquisition.
It specifically mentions that Guinea-Bissau is an international transit point for drug smuggling and that firearms are widely circulated. The advisory warns that in case of armed robbery, prioritizing personal safety and absolutely not resisting is crucial. It also notes that photographing airports, ports, military, police, and other government facilities is prohibited.
Unique to this source is the explicit warning about the MFDC presence in Cacheu State and the potential for rapid deterioration of public safety due to political instability. It also advises against approaching religious facilities on Fridays due to the potential for political speeches and demonstrations turning violent. The advisory also states that visa on arrival is generally not possible, requiring pre-arrival acquisition.
Auswärtiges Amt
Updated: 2026-04-21
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-02-26
The New Zealand advisory recommends "Exercise increased caution" overall and "Avoid non-essential travel" to the northwest part of the country bordering the Casamance region in Senegal due to armed rebel groups. It provides a specific date for a recent political event (November 26, 2025), where a faction of the army seized power, suspending elections and instituting a nationwide curfew from 6 pm to 7 am.
It uniquely advises New Zealanders to "shelter in place" if currently in Guinea-Bissau during unrest and to monitor media for information. The advisory explicitly mentions that while violent crime towards foreigners is not common, opportunistic crime is prevalent, particularly at the Bissau airport. It also details that while Bissau was declared mine-free in 2006, landmines remain a hazard in other regions like Bafatá, Biombo, Oio, Quinara, and Tombali.
Unique insights include the specific curfew hours (6 pm to 7 am) during the November 2025 unrest and the explicit advice to avoid walking alone or traveling after dark, emphasizing that car doors should be locked and windows up when traveling by road. It also provides general health advice for Africa, including specific immunizations like tetanus and typhoid, and precautions against insect-borne and waterborne diseases.
It uniquely advises New Zealanders to "shelter in place" if currently in Guinea-Bissau during unrest and to monitor media for information. The advisory explicitly mentions that while violent crime towards foreigners is not common, opportunistic crime is prevalent, particularly at the Bissau airport. It also details that while Bissau was declared mine-free in 2006, landmines remain a hazard in other regions like Bafatá, Biombo, Oio, Quinara, and Tombali.
Unique insights include the specific curfew hours (6 pm to 7 am) during the November 2025 unrest and the explicit advice to avoid walking alone or traveling after dark, emphasizing that car doors should be locked and windows up when traveling by road. It also provides general health advice for Africa, including specific immunizations like tetanus and typhoid, and precautions against insect-borne and waterborne diseases.
Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE)
Updated: 2026-02-23
The Swiss advisory recommends "particular attention to personal safety" and highlights the fragile political situation following the November 26, 2025, military takeover, noting that the situation, though calm, remains tense. It warns about unrest and clashes during demonstrations and strikes. It also explicitly states that the risk of terrorist attacks cannot be excluded.
It uniquely advises against travel to the border zone with Senegal (Casamance) due to armed group activities and the persistent presence of insufficiently signaled mined areas. The advisory emphasizes that homosexual acts are punishable under local laws, a strict legal detail not explicitly stated as a crime by all other sources. It also notes that hospitals demand advance payment in cash before starting treatment.
Unique details include the recommendation to carry dressing materials and single-use syringes due to poor medical care. It also advises that travel outside Bissau requires meticulous preparation with contact points at each stage. The advisory also highlights that border crossings may be temporarily closed at short notice to contain disease spread, which is a specific operational risk.
It uniquely advises against travel to the border zone with Senegal (Casamance) due to armed group activities and the persistent presence of insufficiently signaled mined areas. The advisory emphasizes that homosexual acts are punishable under local laws, a strict legal detail not explicitly stated as a crime by all other sources. It also notes that hospitals demand advance payment in cash before starting treatment.
Unique details include the recommendation to carry dressing materials and single-use syringes due to poor medical care. It also advises that travel outside Bissau requires meticulous preparation with contact points at each stage. The advisory also highlights that border crossings may be temporarily closed at short notice to contain disease spread, which is a specific operational risk.
Regjeringen (Norway)
Updated: 2026-03-04
Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands)
Updated: 2026-05-25
The Dutch advisory assigns an "orange" color code for the border area with Senegal, indicating only necessary travel, and a "yellow" color code for the rest of Guinea-Bissau, signifying attention to risks. It highlights political unrest and advises following local media and authorities, staying away from government buildings, military bases, demonstrations, and crowds. It specifically mentions the long-standing conflict in the Casamance region on the Senegalese side of the border, which has resulted in uncleared landmines in the border area.
It provides practical advice on avoiding crime, such as being aware of pickpockets and robberies, and offers a link to a general page on preventing crime abroad. The advisory specifically addresses Lhbtiq+ persons, warning of potential discrimination and aggression and advising on how to reduce risks. It also mentions that heavy rain and floods can occur during the rainy season (June to November).
Unique to this source is the explicit mention that the Dutch driving license is not valid in Guinea-Bissau, requiring a local license. It also provides a WhatsApp contact number (+31 857 737 400) for the Netherlands Worldwide contact center in case of emergency. The advisory also notes that there is no Dutch embassy in Guinea-Bissau, directing citizens to the embassy in Dakar, Senegal, or the honorary consul in Bissau.
It provides practical advice on avoiding crime, such as being aware of pickpockets and robberies, and offers a link to a general page on preventing crime abroad. The advisory specifically addresses Lhbtiq+ persons, warning of potential discrimination and aggression and advising on how to reduce risks. It also mentions that heavy rain and floods can occur during the rainy season (June to November).
Unique to this source is the explicit mention that the Dutch driving license is not valid in Guinea-Bissau, requiring a local license. It also provides a WhatsApp contact number (+31 857 737 400) for the Netherlands Worldwide contact center in case of emergency. The advisory also notes that there is no Dutch embassy in Guinea-Bissau, directing citizens to the embassy in Dakar, Senegal, or the honorary consul in Bissau.
Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy)
Updated: 2026-03-03
The Italian advisory discourages unnecessary travel to Guinea-Bissau due to political instability and high crime rates in the capital. It specifically mentions that the yellow fever vaccination is mandatory and that malaria and cholera are endemic. The advisory highlights the high risk of counterfeit drugs and the very limited medical facilities, emphasizing the need for medical evacuation insurance.
It uniquely states that a visa on arrival is not possible directly in Guinea-Bissau, but can be obtained in a transit country like Senegal (at the embassy or Dakar airport) or even at the Casamance border, though this is risky. The advisory also provides specific emergency contact numbers for the Judicial Police (00245/95 575 6363) available 24 hours. It details that the Italian driving license needs a temporary permit from the local Directorate General of Road Transport to be valid.
Unique to this source is the explicit mention of the progressive deterioration of the security situation in the Sahel area and the activism of terrorist groups, posing a risk to Western citizens and interests in Guinea-Bissau. It also provides a specific warning about the Casamance border area due to confrontation between independentist rebels and the Senegalese army, coupled with the presence of mines. The advisory also details severe penalties for drug trafficking (15 to 30 years) and crimes against minors.
It uniquely states that a visa on arrival is not possible directly in Guinea-Bissau, but can be obtained in a transit country like Senegal (at the embassy or Dakar airport) or even at the Casamance border, though this is risky. The advisory also provides specific emergency contact numbers for the Judicial Police (00245/95 575 6363) available 24 hours. It details that the Italian driving license needs a temporary permit from the local Directorate General of Road Transport to be valid.
Unique to this source is the explicit mention of the progressive deterioration of the security situation in the Sahel area and the activism of terrorist groups, posing a risk to Western citizens and interests in Guinea-Bissau. It also provides a specific warning about the Casamance border area due to confrontation between independentist rebels and the Senegalese army, coupled with the presence of mines. The advisory also details severe penalties for drug trafficking (15 to 30 years) and crimes against minors.
BMEIA (Austria)
Updated: 2026-05-07
The Austrian advisory assigns a "Sicherheitsstufe 3" (High Security Risk) for the entire country, advising against non-essential travel due to a November 26, 2025, coup, which has made the situation highly unclear. It warns about a potential "Spill-Over" effect of terrorist attacks from other West African regions, targeting Western facilities and nationals. The advisory also highlights the widespread organized crime, particularly illegal drug trafficking, affecting coastal areas and the Bijagos Islands.
It explicitly states that homosexual acts are illegal, a significant legal detail. The advisory also advises against overland and night driving due to poor road conditions and high violence, and warns that taxis are not considered safe. It notes that the tourist infrastructure is deficient or non-existent, and due to widespread mining, it is advisable not to leave main roads.
Unique to this source is the explicit statement that homosexual acts are illegal, which contradicts some other advisories (e.g., CA, GB, US). It also mentions that electronic identification (ID Austria) is currently only accepted in Austria. The advisory also details requirements for minors traveling without legal guardians, including a consent declaration, birth certificate copy, and passport copies of legal representatives.
It explicitly states that homosexual acts are illegal, a significant legal detail. The advisory also advises against overland and night driving due to poor road conditions and high violence, and warns that taxis are not considered safe. It notes that the tourist infrastructure is deficient or non-existent, and due to widespread mining, it is advisable not to leave main roads.
Unique to this source is the explicit statement that homosexual acts are illegal, which contradicts some other advisories (e.g., CA, GB, US). It also mentions that electronic identification (ID Austria) is currently only accepted in Austria. The advisory also details requirements for minors traveling without legal guardians, including a consent declaration, birth certificate copy, and passport copies of legal representatives.
0404 (Korea)
Updated: 2026-04-22
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 Republic of Guinea-Bissau
This comprehensive travel advisory page for Republic of Guinea-Bissau 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 Republic of Guinea-Bissau.
By comparing these multiple perspectives, travelers can gain a more complete understanding of the current situation in Republic of Guinea-Bissau 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: 2026-05-24