Chad

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

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

• Dial 2121 or 121 for emergency services

Terrorism

The Lake Chad area and the border with Borno State, Nigeria, is a Boko Haram stronghold. Chad is at risk from attacks by Boko Haram and Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham–West Africa (ISIS-WA), two extremist groups based in northeast Nigeria.  U.S. citizen missionaries in northern Nigeria, the Far North Region of Cameroon, and Niger have been targeted by these groups.

Because of the security situation, U.S. embassy employees need prior authorization to travel outside N’Djamena.  They must have armed security escorts and multiple vehicles.

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

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable and can turn violent quickly.  Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.  Even events intended to be peaceful can become violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

Stay alert in areas frequented by foreigners. These places can become targets. Victims usually remain unharmed if they do not resist.

The following crimes are common in Chad:

• Pick pocketing and phone and purse snatching
• Thefts from hotel rooms, parked vehicles, and vehicles stalled in traffic jams
• Armed robberies of pedestrians and car jackings, sometimes during daylight hours and in public places
• Assault

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.

Financial and romance scams are common in Chad.  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 detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.  You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 2121 or 121. Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.  We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement at for assistance.
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world.

Satellite phones are illegal in Chad.  Travelers using satellite phones risk arrest and seizure of phones.  Cellular phones are widely used, however network coverage is limited and often unavailable.  SIM cards can be purchased locally and used with a compatible cell phone.  The 2 major providers are Tigo and Airtel.  Chadian networks use GSM technology.

All photography requires a permit issued by the Ministry of Public Security and Immigration and the Ministry of Communication, especially if traveling to a humanitarian zone or refugee camp.  Police can seize equipment and punish people for even using a cell phone camera to take pictures of street scenes and roadways.

It is illegal to take pictures of military sites, official buildings, airports, and public monuments.  Such sites are not always clearly marked.

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.

Tourism safety

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.

Adventure travel

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for more information about Adventure Travel.
• Zakouma National Park: Follow all instructions from guides or trackers. Poachers target rangers.

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.

• You may be detained for questioning by the police if you are unable to show an acceptable form of identification.
• Convictions for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs (including marijuana, which is illegal) result in long prison sentences and heavy fines.
• 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 Chad seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notifications

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.

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.
• Counterfeit pharmaceuticals and alcoholic beverages are common in local shops. These are hard to detect and can be extremely dangerous if consumed.

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

• Chadian law punishes same-sex sexual relations with prison time and a fine.
• Strong social and cultural beliefs against homosexuality exist.  Gay and lesbian organizations do not operate openly in the country.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• The law in Chad prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual, or mental disabilities. The law is not enforced.
• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.
• General public sentiment around disability is not as accepting as in the United States.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers

• Women travelers should never go walking or jogging alone in secluded areas, particularly at night.
• Never tell strangers, however friendly, where you are staying.  Do not disclose your travel plans.
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information on Female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C).
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Chad 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 2121 or 121 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are not widely available.  Training and response time of emergency responders may be poor.
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital.  This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

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 Chad. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Private 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.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider.  Be sure to keep records of all treatment received and payments made.  Follow their instructions for filing claims.

Vaccinations

Everyone aged 9 months or older must show proof of yellow fever vaccination upon arrival in Chad.

The International Certificates of Vaccination (yellow card) is valid 10 days after vaccination.  Without this proof, you may be denied entry or face mandatory quarantine in Chad.

Stay up to date with the vaccines 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 N’Djamena.  It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• 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 usually require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards.  Consider hiring a private nurse.  Another option is to have family stay the night with the patient, especially a child.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Prescription medications

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.

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Be sure to bring enough of your prescriptions (as well as over-the-counter medications) to last the duration of your trip.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad.  Pharmaceuticals 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.

For more information:

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

Non-traditional medicine

• U.S. citizens have had serious complications or died while getting care from non-traditional “healers” and practitioners in Chad.  We strongly recommend against participating in such practices.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Chad to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.
• Surrogacy is largely unregulated in Chad with no clear legal protections for foreign intended parents.  Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by Chadian courts.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Chad via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney and be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s birth with local authorities and/or citizenship status.  Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk legal consequences.

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water in Chad is not safe to drink.
• In most locations, tap water is not available every day.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe.  Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• 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.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad. The air quality varies and changes with the seasons.  It is typically at its worst in the dry season from November to April, when dust storms may reduce air quality.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Chad.
• 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 Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

• In N’Djamena, some main roads are paved.  Other roads within the city are dirt and gravel with large ruts and potholes.
• Many traffic accidents occur daily due to excessive speed, erratic driving habits, and chronic lack of road signs.
• Street lighting is extremely limited.  It is difficult to see pedestrians, cyclists, and animals at night.
• Road conditions in the rural areas are poor and usually require a 4-wheel drive vehicle.
• Roads throughout Chad often become impassable during the rainy season from June through October.
• Vehicles are often poorly maintained and may not have working headlights. Vehicles with only 1 operable headlight can appear to be a motorcycle at night, often with deadly consequences for on-coming traffic.
• Do not travel outside N’Djamena at night.
• When traveling outside of cities or towns, carry spare tires, food and water, navigation equipment, and extra fuel.

Traffic laws

• An international driving permit is required.
• It is illegal to use cell phones while driving or to drive a vehicle with tinted windows.
• If you are involved in an accident, stay inside the vehicle and call the police.  It is illegal to move your vehicle before police arrive. But if a hostile crowd forms or you feel your safety is in danger, leave the scene and go directly to the nearest police station to report the incident.

Roadblocks

Security forces set up spontaneous roadblocks in and around N’Djamena, especially after dark.  They do vehicle searches and check passengers for identity papers.  They may also solicit bribes and require drivers to submit to pat-down body searches.

• Do not allow soldiers or police officers to enter your vehicle. Do not get into the vehicle of anyone claiming to be a security official.
• Comply with the local authorities and remain courteous and calm. If threatened, do not resist.
• Remain inside your vehicle with doors locked and open the window slightly to communicate.
• Show documents through the window. Carry color photocopies of your passport and other identity documents to give to the police.
• Keep original documents in a secure location.
• Report harassment to the U.S. embassy.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Do not use taxis in N’Djamena.  Hire private transport from reliable sources.
• Travel agencies and local hotels may be able to arrange private transport for you.
• Do not accept rides that are not prearranged.
• Confirm identity of the assigned driver.
• Decline unofficial airport help with your luggage.

Public and commercial transportation

• Privately operated minibuses are often not properly maintained and dangerous.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Chad’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Weather and natural disasters

Flooding

• The rainy season in Chad runs from June through October.  Heavy rainfall can cause flooding in low-lying areas of the Lake Chad Basin, including N’Djamena. Flash flooding is frequent, especially during and following heavy rain, and may be life threatening.

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.