Reissued after periodic review with changes.

Exercise increased caution in Uruguay due to crime.

Country Summary:
Crime is most common in these departments:

• Montevideo
• Canelones
• Maldonado
• Rivera

Violent crimes, such as homicides, armed robberies, car jackings, and thefts occur throughout the country. These crimes happen at any time and have affected U.S. citizens. 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.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Uruguay.

If you decide to travel to Uruguay:

• 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 messages and Alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.  
• Review the Country Security Report for Uruguay.
• Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.