Syria

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 112 for police 
• Dial 110 for ambulance 
• Dial 113 for the fire department 
• Syrian operators usually do not speak English.

Do not travel to Syria

The Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens against travel to Syria. Violence is common throughout Syria.

• Over the last 14 years, the Assad regime committed many atrocities. 
• Thousands of former regime and militia members have given up their weapons and reconciled. However, some supporters of the former Assad regime are still active. They continue to fight against government security forces.  
• People also face the risk of being killed or injured by unexploded ordnance from the civil war

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools 
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains
• Commercial flights

Syria has been designated as a “State Sponsor of Terrorism” since 1979. The Bashar al-Assad regime supported several terrorist groups. This has affected the stability of the region. 

• Syria is home to several groups hostile to the United States. 
• Terrorists often do not see a difference between U.S. government personnel and private U.S. citizens. 
• U.S. citizens who choose to travel despite this warning should stay alert and be aware of their surroundings. You must aim to be unpredictable. Change your travel times and routes. Keep a low profile.
• Some non-state groups hold anti-U.S. sentiment views. This sentiment can grow stronger after key events in the region, especially those related to U.S.-Syria relations, international intervention in the ongoing conflict, regional conflicts, and the status of Jerusalem. 
• Terrorist organizations and limited border security measures threaten Syria’s stability.  
• For more information, review our Terrorism page. 

Crime 

• Since the suspension of operations of the U.S. Embassy in Damascus in February of 2012, the U.S. government has not been able to provide accurate information about crime involving U.S. citizens visiting or living in Syria. 

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are common. Demonstrations may occur in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams. 

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

Scams are common in Syria. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money.  Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include: 

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Property sales or offers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

If using dating apps or websites in Syria:

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person.
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Satellite phones and satellite internet services, including “Starlink,” are prohibited without prior authorization from the Syrian Telecommunication and Post Regulatory Authority.

Drones

• The Syrian Civil Aviation Authority has not issued specific regulations for drones in Syria. Consult with them before operating a drone in Syria.

GPS

It is illegal in Syria to possess specific-use electronic devices including GPS, short-wave or handheld radio equipment, or similar devices.

• GPS use in Syria has been significantly disrupted by jamming and spoofing.  
• Research the route recommended by the GPS to make sure it’s safe.
• The fastest path may not be the safest.
• GPS navigation might not be accurate in Syria.

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 112. 

Review our information for Victims of Crime.

If you or someone you know becomes the victim of a crime abroad, you should contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Czechia, through the U.S. Interests Section of the Czech Embassy in Damascus, currently serves as the Protecting Power for U.S. interests in Syria. However, its ability to provide services is extremely limited.

The U.S. Interests Section, in coordination with nearby U.S. embassies and consulates, may be able to:

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. 
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Sexual assault and domestic violence 

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Interests Section of the Czech Embassy in Damascus for assistance.
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Interests Section of the Czech Embassy in Damascus for assistance.

Tourism

Do not travel to Syria for any reason. No formal tourism industry infrastructure is in place:

• Tourists participate in activities at their own risk.
• Emergency response and medical treatment is not available.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Syrian conflict

Sources estimate that before Assad left in December 2024, the Syrian conflict caused over 500,000 deaths. Hundreds of thousands more people were wounded, arbitrarily detained, or forcibly disappeared since the conflict started in 2011.  

• The Syrian conflict has resulted in over 5 million registered Syrian refugees.
• Millions more people are displaced inside Syria. 
• More than 14 million people in Syria need humanitarian help.

Armed organizations operating in Syria

The Syrian government controls most of the country. However, other armed groups hold power in northeast Syria and parts of southern Syria. 

• Some armed groups have used car bombs and improvised explosive devices. They have also carried out indirect-fire attacks, sniper fire, and kidnappings across the country. 
• Foreign combatants join the fight. This includes members of Iran-aligned militia groups, Hizballah fighters, violent extremists, ISIS, and al-Qa'ida (AQ) elements. 
• Türkiye has also conducted military operations in Syria. This aims to counter the influence of the Kurdistan Worker’s Party (PKK), which is a designated terrorist organization. These operations have reportedly resulted in deaths. 
• Israel has conducted military operations in Syria, leading to deaths. It has also increased military presence in the Area of Separation in the Golan Heights and further into Syrian territory.  

ISIS presence 

ISIS no longer controls territory in Syria but still operates as an insurgency throughout the country. 

ISIS still poses a major threat to civilians living in Syria. They can carry out coordinated attacks on both armed militants and civilians.  

ISIS and other violent extremist groups use various tactics, including: 

• Suicide bombers
• Kidnapping
• Small and heavy arms
• Improvised explosive devices
• Previous use of chemical weapons

They have targeted:

• Major city centers
• Road checkpoints
• Border crossings
• Government buildings
• Energy infrastructure
• Shopping areas
• Open spaces in Damascus, Aleppo, Hamah, Dara, Homs, Idlib, Deir Ezzor provinces and parts of northeast Syria. 

These groups have murdered, kidnapped, or taken hostage U.S. citizens, both for ransom and political purposes. In some cases, U.S. citizens have disappeared within Syria. The U.S. government’s ability to help U.S. citizens kidnapped or taken hostage is very limited.

Kidnapping and hostage taking

There is a high risk of kidnapping or hostage-taking of U.S. citizens and foreign nationals in the country. U.S. citizens are a specific target. 

• Several high-profile abductions have happened since mid-2012. 
• U.S. citizen victims come from many fields. Some are journalists, while others work in humanitarian roles.
• ISIS has murdered U.S. citizens it held captive. The group released videos of the killings and claimed responsibility for their deaths. 
• U.S. citizens have been kidnapped by various individuals and groups in Syria. This has happened in locations such as Damascus and Aleppo. Other U.S. citizens are missing. Authorities think they have been kidnapped or have been taken as hostages. 
• U.S. citizens are missing after kidnappers or individuals forcibly disappeared them in Syria. The Assad regime and non-state armed groups are involved. Their fate and location remain unclear.  

Security risks at the borders

• Syria faces a complicated security situation due to porous borders and nascent border security measures. The ongoing violence and influx of foreign fighters add to this challenge. The Government of Türkiye limits crossings at the Syrian border. It can change crossing procedures anytime without notice. This rule applies to people crossing the land border from Türkiye to Syria and from Syria to Türkiye. 
• People needing emergency medical help or safety from danger are evaluated individually. 
• U.S. citizens with Turkish or Syrian citizenship can enter and exit land borders outside the Peace Spring Operation Zone. This is based on an announcement made in August 2025. They must show their Turkish or Syrian travel documents. Check with local authorities before traveling, as rules may change. 
• U.S. citizens have reported dangers while traveling in the country. They also face risks when trying to leave Syria through land borders. 
• Border checkpoints aren't safe. Some armed groups try to fund themselves by kidnapping for ransom. Border areas often face shelling and attacks. They are also crowded with internally displaced persons. Errant attacks will occasionally hit border towns just outside the borders as well.

Do not engage in the Syrian armed conflict

The U.S. government strongly warns U.S. citizens not to travel to Syria for armed conflict. U.S. citizens who engage in this activity face serious risks. These include kidnapping, injury, and death. 

• The U.S. government does not support this activity. Our ability to provide consular help to U.S. citizens who are arrested, injured, or kidnapped, as well as their families, is very limited. This includes those who die in the conflict.   
• Supporting or fighting for designated terrorist groups can mean providing material support to a foreign terrorist organization. This is a crime under U.S. law. Penalties include prison time and large fines.  

Special circumstances

The security situation in Syria remains fluid. There is an elevated risk of violent armed conflict. 

• The destruction of infrastructure, housing, medical facilities, schools, and power and water utilities has increased hardships in Syria. 
• Communication in Syria is difficult as phone and internet connections are unreliable.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.

• Syria imposes more severe penalties for certain crimes than the United States. Article 39 of Syria’s Narcotics Act imposes the death penalty for drug trafficking or cultivation.
• Women who are arrested under suspicion of “immoral behavior,” like being alone in a room with a man who is not their husband or being in a place with drugs or alcohol, may face be subjected to an involuntary medical exam and may be arrested.  
• Taking photographs or hanging around places that seem military or security-related, may lead to questioning, confiscation of your images, or detention by security services.  
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Syria, seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.  

Arrest notification

If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Interests Section at the Czech Embassy in Damascus immediately. 

• You can be detained if you do not get your entry visa directly from the Syrian government.
• U.S. citizens have been targets of abduction and unjust detention by non-state armed groups and by the previous Assad regime. 
• Detention conditions are unclear. They may include harsh and unsanitary conditions, which can allow for the quick spread of various illnesses.   
• Detainees may lack access to fair judicial process or medical attention.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad 
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

Syrian law criminalizes consensual same-sex conduct under penal code article 520. It states that each sexual act "against the order of nature" is punishable by up to 3 years in prison. 

• Gay and lesbian people in Syria have been arrested on charges such as abusing social values; selling, buying, or consuming illegal drugs; or organizing and promoting “obscene” parties.
• People perceived to be gay or lesbian have reportedly been murdered by non-state actors. 
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

A 2024 law in Syria prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual or mental disabilities. However, the law is not enforced.

• The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities, access to services, and ease of movement.  
• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication or information, and general infrastructure.
• Sidewalks are generally unevenly paved and often blocked by parked cars. Stairs must be used to access many public buildings, restaurants, cafes, and other tourist spots
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Students Abroad.

Women travelers

• Women Travelers
• Marriage
• Female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C)
• Victims of Crime

Volunteering abroad

• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report prior to traveling.
• Journalists are at risk of kidnapping and hostage taking and should review these tips. 

Customs requirements

• Syrian customs authorities may have strict rules for temporary imports and exports. This includes weapons, narcotics, alcohol, tobacco, cheese, fruit, pharmaceuticals, modems, cosmetics, and some electrical appliances.  
• Review our information on Laws Abroad for more information.

Banking and commerce

You can only exchange foreign currencies for Syrian pounds through licensed money changers, the Commercial Bank of Syria (CBS), the Real Estate Bank, and at private banks. Some private banks have offices inside 4 and 5-star hotels.

• Four and 5-star hotels and high-end stores in Syria generally accept credit cards. However, most restaurants, stores, and shops only take cash.
• You must pay hotel bills in U.S. dollars, Euros, or other non-Syrian hard currency.
• Traveler’s checks are not accepted in Syria. Banks will not cash them unless the traveler has an account there.
• There are no U.S.-based banks operating in Syria.
• There are 14 private banks operating in Syria, with branches and ATMs in most major cities. These ATMs usually honor major debit and credit systems.
• You can transfer funds into Syria through Western Union.
• You can wire funds through private banks only if you have an account with the bank in Syria. Private citizens seeking to transfer funds outside of Syria or to withdraw U.S. dollars from a bank should check with their financial institution for the latest regulations.

Trade and sanctions

Please consult the Department of Treasury and Department of Commerce websites for more details.

• You can send requests for specific licenses to authorize transactions that are not exempt nor covered by a general license. Submit them to the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).
• You can review the Department of Treasury’s Syria Sanctions page for more information.
• U.S. citizens cannot engage in financial transactions if there is reasonable cause to believe it might pose a risk of supporting terrorist acts in the United States. 
• For additional information about Terrorism List Government Sanctions Regulations, review the terrorism brochure on the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s OFAC home page or via OFAC's info-by-fax service at (202) 622-0077.

Health

Health resources

• CDC Syria Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations. 
• CDC Medical Tourism information 
• World Health Organization 
• Medicine and Health 
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 110 for emergency services in Syria
• Dial 112 for police
• Dial 113 for ambulance and fire department

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are not present throughout the country, except in Damascus and provincial cities.
• Basic medical care and medicines are available in Damascus and some coastal areas, but not necessarily in other areas. 
• Serious illnesses and emergencies may require evacuation to a neighboring country or more developed medical facility. 
• There are shortages of food, water, medicine, and medical supplies throughout Syria.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Syria. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Credit card payment is not available.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Private and public hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance. 
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. Review our Health Abroad page for more information.

Vaccinations 

Stay up to date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health 
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

• Health facilities are available in Damascus and other major cities. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Check with the Syrian Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Syria.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

Water quality and food safety

• In many areas, tap water is not safe to drink.  
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. You should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. 
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick. 
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Altitude

• Many cities in Syria, such as Mount Hermon, are at high altitude.
• Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel.
• If you have a pre-existing medical condition, like diabetes or high blood pressure, talk with your doctor before traveling to high altitude areas in Syria, especially if traveling from low altitude areas near the Dead Sea. 
• Visit the CDC website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes.

Air quality 

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations overseas. 

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses AI, historical data, and global pollution models to create a 3-day air quality forecast for Syria.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow. 
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Heath page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

• Exercise caution if driving in Syria. Road conditions are dangerous. You may encounter hostile activity, harassment, or even abduction at both official and unofficial security checkpoints on all roads. 
• Drivers generally follow traffic signs and signals in urban centers. But they maneuver aggressively and show little regard for vehicles traveling near them. 
• Lane markings are usually ignored.  
• Unlike in the United States, vehicles within Syrian traffic circles must give way to entering traffic. 
• At night, it is very difficult to see pedestrians, who often walk into traffic with little warning. Outside major cities, it is common to find pedestrians, animals, and vehicles on unlit roads at night.
• Pedestrians should exercise caution. Parked cars, deteriorating pavement, and guard posts obstruct sidewalks, often forcing pedestrians to walk in the street.  Vehicles often do not stop for pedestrians. They regularly run red lights or “jump” the green light well before it changes.  
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety abroad.

Traffic laws

• Drivers and passengers may face demands for money, harassment, and abduction throughout the country.  
• Rule of law, including traffic laws, and law enforcement is absent in many areas of the country.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Public taxis are yellow with large “taxi” signs. There are also a few private taxi companies and local ride-share apps. They generally require payment in cash.  
• The U.S. Department of State cannot guarantee the safety of taxis and ride-shares in Syria.

Public and commercial transportation 

• Public buses and trains are available. Public minibuses go to more remote areas.
• The U.S. Department of State cannot guarantee the safety of public transportation in Syria.    

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Syria’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program.  
• Because of the risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Syria, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) that prohibit U.S. flights from flying within Syrian airspace and advises caution for flights operating within 200 nautical miles.
• U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration's Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices for more information.

Maritime travel 

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Syria should check the following:

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories 
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts 
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings

The U.S. Coast Guard determined Syrian ports do not have effective anti-terrorism measures.  

Vessels that arrive in U.S. ports from Syrian ports must meet additional U.S. Coast Guard conditions of entry as described in the current Port Security Advisory, International Port Security Program - Port Security Advisory. 

Mariners and passengers traveling through Syrian ports should be careful and use stronger security measures.

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

• Syria is mostly desert. It has hot, dry, sunny summers from June to August. It has mild, rainy winters from December to February along its coast. 
• Damascus has cold weather with snow or sleet periodically.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and Consulates

Czechia Embassy in Damascus, Protecting Power for U.S. interests

Czechia, acting through its Embassy in Damascus, serves as the Protecting Power for U.S. interests in Syria. 

• Czechia provides U.S. citizens with limited emergency services.
• U.S. citizens in Syria with an emergency must contact the U.S. Interests Section of the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Damascus at damascus.usis@mzv.gov.cz.

Consular services in nearby countries

U.S. citizens in Syria who are in need of routine consular services must contact 1 of these U.S. embassies: 

• U.S. Embassy in Lebanon: Services for U.S. and Local Citizens - U.S. Citizens Services - U.S. Embassy in Lebanon
• U.S. Embassy in Egypt: Services for U.S. and Local Citizens - U.S. Citizens Services - U.S. Embassy in Egypt 
• U.S. Embassy in Turkey: Services for U.S. and Local Citizens - U.S. Citizens Services - U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Türkiye

U.S. citizens can also get assistance by dialing 1-888-407-4747 , inside the U.S., or +1-202-501-4444, outside the U.S.