U.S. Embassy Dili,Timor Leste

Av. de Portugal
Praia dos Coqueiros
Dili, Timor-Leste
Telephone: +(670) 332-4684
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(670) 7723-1328
Fax: +(670) 331-3206
Email: ConsDili@state.gov

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Timor-Leste for information on U.S.-Timor-Leste relations.

You need a passport valid for six months beyond the date of arrival in Timor-Leste. Travelers arriving by air may obtain a 30-day tourist visa-on-arrival for a fee of 30 USD. Travelers have the option to extend this visa for an additional 30 days, provided they apply at least 15 days prior to the expiration of their current visa. Forms to apply for the extension are available at the office of the Ministry of Interior in Dili.

If entering Timor-Leste by land, you will need to apply in advance at the Timor-Leste Consulate in Kupang, Indonesia for a “Visa Application Authorization.” When you arrive at the border, the “Visa Application Authorization” must be presented to an immigration official. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months and you must pay 30 USD to receive a visa. Visas on arrival at the land border with Indonesia are no longer available.

Visit the Embassy of Timor-Leste website for the most current visa information.

Please note, however, that Timor-Leste’s immigration policies are subject to change at any time, and that the Immigration Department’s website may not reflect the current policies. Visitors traveling via air must transit Xiamen, China Darwin, Australia, or Bali, Indonesia, en route to Timor-Leste.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Timor-Leste.

Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction, and customs regulations on our websites.

Travel to Australia from Timor-Leste: If you intend to travel to Australia from Timor-Leste, you should be aware that Australian immigration requires an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in advance of arrival. For more information, please consult the Australian Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) website.

While the security situation has improved, underlying tensions persist, especially during elections, though no significant violence has occurred since 2012.

You should exercise caution, use common sense, avoid large gatherings, remain alert with regard to your personal security and avoid travel after dark. Exercise caution in public places, including, but not limited to, clubs, restaurants, bars, schools, places of worship, outdoor recreational events, hotels, resorts and beaches, and other locations frequented by foreigners.

You should review U.S. Embassy security messages and maintain a high level of security awareness while moving around the country.

Timorese security forces occasionally establish official security checkpoints along roads. You may be expected to show your passport at these checkpoints.

Crime: Pick-pocketing, purse snatching, residential and automobile break-ins, and theft occur, especially in Dili. These crimes often happen in recreational areas and facilities frequented by foreigners. Victims of crime who resist may face physical violence by perpetrators.

Stone-throwing attacks on vehicles can occur during gang conflicts and periods of civil unrest. Avoid travel at night or alone in unfamiliar areas. Women should avoid traveling or taking taxis alone, especially at night. Women walking or exercising alone in Dili have reported harassment, indecent exposure, and groping incidents.

See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.

Technology Usage Abroad: Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, or damaged anywhere in the world. Before traveling abroad, it is best to keep all software (operating system and apps) updated. If possible, use a virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.

GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety consideration.

Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.

Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police at 112 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +670-7723-1328.

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.

We can:

• 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 a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• 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

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: Outside of a small number of PADI-certified dive shops, no formal tourism industry infrastructure is in place. Tourists are considered to be participating in activities at their own risk. Emergency response and appropriate medical treatment is not available in-country. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. 

See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you break local laws, even if you don't know it, you can be kicked out of the area, arrested, or put in prison. If you want to start a business or work in a job that needs special permits or licenses, you should get information from the local authorities before you start.

If you are suspected of criminal activity, you may be incarcerated for up to one year pending investigation.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES:

Timor-Leste continues to develop and strengthen its civil and governmental institutions. If you encounter problems while traveling or doing business in Timor-Leste you may find it difficult to identify legal or administrative remedies.

Currency: The U.S. dollar is the official currency of Timor-Leste. Only a few establishments accept credit cards, usually requiring a substantial additional fee, and you should be prepared to settle all bills in cash. Dili has several ATMs that accept U.S.-issued bankcards, which are frequently inoperative and can charge high fees.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries. 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 and/or have to give up counterfeit and pirated goods if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports

International Volunteers:

• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGB Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations or the organization of events or materials depicting or supporting lesbian, gay, or bisexual persons in Timor-Leste. Since 2009, the penal code specifies that crimes motivated by the victim’s sexual orientation (as well as ethnicity, religion, disability, etc.) may be subject to higher penalties. Although there are some openly gay public personalities, LGB individuals generally maintain very low profiles. Several human rights organizations focused on sexual orientation exist. There have been no formal reports of discrimination based on sexual orientation, though discrimination may be underreported due to the lack of recourse stemming from the absence of formal legal protections.

See our LGB Travelers Information page and our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Timor-Leste prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, but the law is not enforced. Timor-Leste does not currently have legislation that mandates access to transportation, communication, and public buildings for persons with disabilities. Currently most public places and public transportation are not accessible. Persons with disabilities will face difficulties in Timor-Leste as foot paths, rest rooms, road crossings, and tourist areas are not equipped to accommodate people with disabilities. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.

Women Travelers: Timor-Leste is socially conservative. Travelers should avoid wearing revealing clothing, particularly in crowded public areas such as markets. Timor-Leste has a very high rate of violence against women and girls, including domestic violence.

See our travel tips for Women Travelers.

Limited emergency medical care is available in Dili and options for routine medical care throughout the rest of the country are extremely limited. Serious medical problems may require medical evacuation..

For emergency services in Timor-Leste, dial 110, +670 331-1044, or +670 723-3212 and ask for an ambulance.

Ambulance services are unreliable in most areas. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

See our Health Abroad page for more information.

• Check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Traveler Advice for Timor-Leste
• Review all sub-sections. These include Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.
• We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health webpage. CDC Traveler Advice provides advice on medical considerations including:
  • Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)
  • Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers and Expatriates)
  • General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)

The Department of State, U.S. embassies and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our Insurance Overseas page for more information on insurance providers with overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the government of Timor-Leste to ensure the medication is legal in Timor-Leste.

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

Further health information:

• World Health Organization Travel advice page
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers’ Health page

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates and ZephAir for additional locations.Air pollution is a significant problem in major cities in Timor-Leste. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you. Consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.

Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment. Medical staff may speak little or no English. Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities. Hospital-based care is only available through government institutions.

Pharmaceuticals: Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, which can be bought without a prescription or with a prescription in the United States, are usually easy to buy with few controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration have rules for bringing medication back to the United States. Medication bought abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back. The medication must be for personal use and approved for use in the United States. Visit the websites of U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration for more information.

Water Quality & Food Safety: In many areas, tap water is not potable. 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. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Altitude: Some parts of Timor-Leste are at high altitude. Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes.

Adventure Travel: Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel.

Road Conditions and Safety: All traffic operates on the left side of the road, and most vehicles use right-hand drive.

• Roads are often poorly maintained and four-wheel drive may be required in some areas.
• Sparse or non-existent lighting and poor road conditions make driving at night hazardous. Many cars and motorcycles operate at night without lights.
• Driving in Dili is especially hazardous, with large trucks, buses, and mikrolets sharing the streets with vendors and pedestrians.
• During the rainy season from November to May, rain showers can severely damage cross-island roadways, making roads particularly risky. You should use caution when traveling on the cross-island roadways in the mountain areas of Aileu, Ermera, Manatuto, Ainaro, and Manufahi districts.

Roadside assistance is limited in Timor-Leste, particularly in rural areas. If you are involved in a traffic accident, you should contact the police. Bystanders sometimes attack the driver perceived to be responsible for a traffic accident. If you believe that there is a threat of bodily harm from people at the scene of the accident, it is advisable to drive to the nearest police station before stopping.

Traffic Laws:

• While vehicle insurance is required in Timor-Leste, compliance with this rule is limited and many drivers are uninsured. Most traffic accidents are settled informally between those involved.

Public Transportation:

• Taxis, small buses, and mini-vans provide public transportation in Dili and elsewhere.
• Public transportation is generally overcrowded, uncomfortable, and below international safety standards.
• Yellow taxis do not operate on meters and passengers are advised to negotiate fares before getting in to avoid disagreements about fares, which have occasionally led to hostilities.
• Blue taxis also operate in Dili and have meters to determine fares
• Public transport is generally inadvisable and usually unavailable after dark, although taxis are occasionally available at select locations.

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Timor-Leste’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Timor-Leste should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website, and the NGA broadcast warnings.

The Commandant of the Coast Guard has determined that effective anti-terrorism measures are not in place in Timor-Leste ports. Therefore, the Commandant has imposed conditions of entry on vessels that arrive in U.S. ports, after visiting Timor-Leste ports. Mariners and passengers traveling through the ports of Timor-Leste should exercise caution. Mariners and passengers traveling through the ports of Timor-Leste should exercise caution.