Brunei

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

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

• Dial 993 for police.
• Dial 991 for ambulance.
• Dial 995 for fire.
• Dial 141 for social welfare support.
• Dial 121 for children and youth issues.
• Dial 145 for mental health helpline.

Crime

Most crimes in Brunei are non-violent crimes of opportunity, such as residential burglaries and vehicle break-ins.

Crime rates in Brunei tend to peak in July and December. This coincides with holidays and school breaks.

You can generally avoid becoming a victim by practicing good security awareness:

• Secure your valuables and keep them out of plain view.
• Avoid remote locations.
• Properly secure your residence and vehicle.

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 scams and internet romance scams are common. 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
• 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 993. 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 domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.

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.

Drones

• You must register drones with the Department of Civil Aviation, whether for personal or commercial use. The only exceptions are toy drones and drones brought in by foreigners in transit or during a short stay, and only if not used in Brunei.
• Failure to register a drone or follow operating rules may result in criminal penalties. You can face fines of up to 50,000 Brunei dollars and imprisonment for up to 5 years.
• To import a drone into Brunei, you must apply for an import permit through the Authority for Info-communication Technology Industry (AITI).

Tourism Safety

The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced.
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities.
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally.
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

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.

• Brunei’s civil penal code and Sharia Penal Code (commonly known as “sharia law”) operate in parallel. Both include provisions for corporal and capital punishment.
• Criminal penalties for certain offenses in Brunei are more severe than those in the United States. This includes acts that are not considered crimes in the United States.
• Under the Sharia Penal Code, punishments for specific crimes may include amputation of hands or feet and death by stoning. The Sharia Penal Code applies regardless of someone’s religion or nationality, although some sections may apply only to Muslims.
• Brunei follows conservative Islamic social values. U.S. citizens are strongly advised to learn and respect local customs and traditions. Consult a guidebook or other travel resources for more information about local cultural norms.
• Public criticism of the Sultan, members of the royal family, the Sharia Penal Code, or Islam is illegal and punishable under local law.
• Under Brunei’s Sharia Penal Code, it is illegal to eat, drink, or use tobacco in public during the fasting hours of Ramadan.
• Gambling is illegal in Brunei.
• Prostitution and pornography are illegal. You can face harsh penalties.
• Non-Muslims may be arrested for khalwat (close proximity between the sexes) under the Sharia Penal Code if the other party is Muslim. Khalwat can include activities like holding hands, public displays of affection, or sexual activity. Foreigners, including U.S. citizens, are subject to khalwat and zina (fornication or adultery) laws.
• Extramarital sexual relations between a Muslim and a non-Muslim is a crime in Brunei. It may result in severe punishment.
• Alcohol cannot be purchased legally in Brunei. However, non-Muslim adults may import up to 2 liters of spirits or wine and 12 cans of beer for personal consumption in private. You must declare alcohol to customs upon arrival.
• Importation of firearms and ammunition is prohibited. Illegal possession, use, distribution, or sale of firearms, ammunition, or explosives may result in severe penalties, including death.
• Illegal possession, use, distribution, or sale of drugs is subject to severe penalties, including death.
• Marijuana is illegal in Brunei, including for medical or prescription use.  Criminal penalties for possession or use are severe.
• 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 Brunei seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification

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

• The Royal Brunei Police Force is professional and courteous. Most officers speak English. However, some from the reserve units have limited-to-no English-speaking capability.
• Always carry a copy of your passport. You may be asked to provide proof of ID if you are involved in an incident.

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

• Same-sex acts are criminalized in Brunei under the civil penal code and under the Sharia Penal Code.
• Possible penalties for same-sex acts under the Sharia Penal Code include fines, imprisonment, caning, and death by stoning.
• Under the civil penal code, possible punishments include a fine and up to 10 years in prison.
• Further information may be available from the Embassy of Brunei in the United States or by contacting an attorney in Brunei.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• The law in Brunei prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities. The law is enforced.
• There are no specific laws governing accessibility.
• Accessibility is limited on streets, which generally lack ramps.  Many buildings may lack accessible entrances and elevators.
• In Brunei, people with disabilities are generally treated with courtesy and kindness. Asking for assistance is usually well-received. However, attitudes may appear to be based on pity rather than beliefs about accessibility. Understanding of disability accommodations is uneven.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C).

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) Brunei 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 991 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are widely available.

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 in Brunei is not free for non-citizens. If you require medical attention, you will be responsible for all expenses, even when treated at public healthcare facilities.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Brunei.
• 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. Follow their instructions for filing claims.

Vaccinations

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

• Brunei offers adequate care for basic medical conditions. For more complex treatment or elective surgery, you may choose to seek care in another country.
• Health facilities are available throughout Brunei. However, access to adequate care is limited in rural areas.
• The Brunei Ministry of Health maintains a list of public hospitals and health centers. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

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.

• Medication and prescriptions are available in Brunei, but the brands may differ from those found in the United States.
• Always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Before traveling, check with the Embassy of Brunei in the United States to ensure your medication is permitted in the country.

For more information:

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

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• Surrogacy is illegal in Brunei. The government will not recognize parental rights originating from surrogacy. Anyone engaging in surrogacy could face legal penalties under local laws. 
• If you are considering traveling to Brunei 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

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking.
• 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.

Air quality

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

• 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 Brunei.
• 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

• Brunei has an extensive and well-maintained road network.
• Traffic moves on the left.

Traffic laws

• Holders of a valid foreign driver’s license may legally drive in Brunei for up to one year.
• For stays longer than one year, or if you hold a foreign license for commercial vehicles, you must convert your license to a Brunei driving license at the Land Transport Department.
• Drivers must obey all traffic rules and exercise caution when approaching traffic signals.
• The Royal Brunei Police Force routinely conducts checkpoints and traffic stops, especially at night. They check licenses, registrations, sobriety, and signs of contraband.
• If stopped by police, you will need to present your identification card, vehicle registration, and insurance card.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Taxis are available at the airport, hotels, shopping centers, and in the city center. All taxis are metered.
• You should use licensed, metered taxis or car services provided by hotels in Brunei.
• Dart, a local ride-share app, is popular for its convenience and transparent fares.

Public and commercial transportation

• Public transportation in Brunei is generally safe.
• There are 6 bus routes servicing the Bandar Seri Begawan area. Normal operating hours are from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily. Fares start at 1 Brunei dollar.
• Buses to other towns in Brunei, such as Tutong, Kuala Belait, and Seria, depart from bus stops at Jalan Kianggeh, opposite the Chinese temple, and at Jalan McArthur, along the waterfront, in Bandar Seri Begawan.
• For more information, visit the website of Brunei's Land Transport Department. This is the national authority responsible for road safety.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Brunei’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 and passengers planning travel to Brunei should check the following: 

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

• Flooding and flash floods are common. They are caused by heavy rainfall, made worse by poor drainage in some areas. Flooding affects residential areas and buildings. It is most frequent during the monsoon season from October through January.
• Landslides may occur during the monsoon season from October through January. They are common on steep, unstable slopes.
• Forest and peatland fires are common during the dry season, from February through April. These fires can result in hazardous air quality and haze due to smoke.

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