Exercise increased caution in Uruguay due to COVID-19 and crime.

Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel.  

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 Travel Health Notice for Uruguay due to COVID-19.

Uruguay has resumed limited transportation options (including charter airport operations, some re-opening of borders for Uruguayan citizens and residents) and business operations (including day cares and schools).  Other improved conditions have been reported within Uruguay. Visit the Embassy's COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in Uruguay.

Violent crimes, such as homicides, armed robberies, carjackings, and thefts have increased throughout the country and occur in urban areas frequented by U.S. government personnel, day and night. Criminals commonly travel in pairs on motorcycles to approach unsuspecting victims with a weapon and demand personal belongings. Armed criminals also target grocery stores, restaurants, financial centers, and small businesses, in which innocent bystanders are often victimized.

Please read the country information page.

If you decide to travel to Uruguay:

• See the U.S. Embassy's web page regarding COVID-19.
• Visit the CDC’s webpage on Travel and COVID-19.
• Be aware of your surroundings especially when traveling to tourist locations or poorly lit areas.
• Call 911 if you encounter a crime in progress. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt or try to stop a robbery in progress.
• Be vigilant when visiting banks or using ATMs during non-daylight hours or in remote locations; criminals often target ATMs and businesses in the early morning hours.
• Do not leave valuable objects in parked vehicles or in plain sight when driving.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive jewelry or watches.
• Review your personal and residential security plans.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
• Review the Crime and Safety Report for Uruguay.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations; review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Last Update: Reissued with updates to COVID-19 information.