Travel To Chad: What Americans Need To Know

Chad is a country in central Africa with a high risk of terrorism, violent crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping. The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 3 Travel Advisory for Chad, recommending that Americans reconsider travel due to these risks. Additionally, the Lake Chad region and the borders with Libya, Sudan, and the Central African Republic are particularly dangerous and Americans are advised not to travel to these areas. Americans planning to travel to Chad should be aware of the security risks and take necessary precautions, such as enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and monitoring local media for updates.

Travel advisories for Chad

Chad is a highly dangerous country, with a US travel advisory rating of Level 3: Reconsider Travel. This is due to the high risk of terrorism, violent crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping. The Lake Chad region and the country's borders with the Central African Republic, Libya, and Sudan are particularly unsafe, with a Do Not Travel advisory in place.

Crime and Security

Violent crimes, such as armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, and muggings, are common in Chad. The risk of crime is higher at night but can also occur during the day. Local security forces, or those posing as them, may try to extort money from foreigners. It is advised not to carry large amounts of cash and to avoid walking in N'Djamena, even for short distances.

Terrorist attacks are a significant risk throughout Chad and can occur anywhere and at any time. Terrorist groups, including Boko Haram, may target foreigners, local security forces, and civilians with little or no warning.

There is also a risk of kidnapping in Chad, with foreigners and aid workers being potential targets. Civil unrest and violent demonstrations can also occur and have previously resulted in deaths.

Health

The standard of medical facilities in Chad varies. In N'Djamena, there is a private hospital with international-standard facilities. However, outside of the capital, medical facilities are very limited, medications are in short supply, and hygiene standards are poor. It is recommended to purchase medical evacuation insurance before travelling to Chad.

Several diseases are prevalent in Chad, including yellow fever, malaria, African sleeping sickness, and typhoid. It is recommended to get vaccinated and take anti-malarial medication before travelling. Drinking tap water is not safe, and foodborne diseases are common.

Local Laws and Customs

Chad is a predominantly Muslim country with conservative social standards. Same-sex relationships are illegal and not widely accepted. Local laws and penalties can be harsh and may appear severe by Western standards. It is illegal to fail to produce identification documents when requested by the police, and foreigners have been arrested for not carrying ID.

Photography restrictions are also strict in Chad. A government permit is required for all types of photography, and it is illegal to photograph military and police assets, personnel, airports, and government buildings.

Entry and Exit

A visa is required to enter Chad and must be obtained before travelling. A valid yellow fever vaccination certificate is also needed for entry. Entry and exit conditions can change with little notice, so it is essential to stay updated with the latest information.

Safety and security concerns

Chad is considered a high-risk area for travellers due to the threat of terrorism, violent crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping. The country has a high escalation of terrorist attacks, which often target foreigners, security forces, and civilians with little or no warning. Terrorist groups such as Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa, and Al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb are active in the region and have carried out attacks and kidnappings. Violent crimes such as armed robbery, carjacking, muggings, and assaults are common in Chad, often targeting foreigners. These crimes occur in residential areas of N'Djamena and other major cities. It is recommended to avoid walking in N'Djamena, even during the day, and to avoid travelling at night.

• Civil Unrest: Chad experiences frequent public demonstrations and anti-government protests, which can quickly turn violent. Crowds can gather suddenly, and security forces have used live ammunition against protestors.
• Border Regions: Chad's borders with Libya, Sudan, and the Central African Republic are particularly dangerous due to armed conflict, minefields, and the presence of armed groups. The border with Sudan remains closed to travellers.
• Road Travel: Road travel in Chad is dangerous due to carjackings, poor road conditions, and the risk of crime. It is advised to avoid travelling by road after dark and to use pre-arranged secure cars or convoys with police or military escorts when possible.
• Medical Facilities: Medical facilities outside of N'Djamena are extremely limited and often lack essential supplies and equipment. It is recommended to purchase medical evacuation insurance before travelling to Chad.
• Local Laws and Customs: Chad is a predominantly Muslim country with conservative social norms. Same-sex relationships are illegal and not widely accepted. It is important to respect local traditions, customs, and religious beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan. Photography of military sites, government buildings, and airports is prohibited without a permit.

Entry requirements

Americans are permitted to enter Chad, however, the US State Department has issued a Level 3 Travel Advisory Notice, advising citizens to reconsider travel to Chad due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk.

Passport

Your passport must meet the following requirements:

• Have 2 blank pages
• Be valid for six months after entry into Chad
• Not be reported lost or stolen

Visa

A visa is required for US citizens and must be obtained in advance from a Chadian embassy or consulate.

Immunisations

A World Health Organization (WHO) card with a yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into Chad. You must carry your yellow fever vaccination certificate with you.

Registration

First-time tourists or humanitarian/aid workers must obtain a registration stamp from the National Police within 72 hours of arrival. You will need to bring two additional passport-sized photos for registration. If you are issued a new passport, you must re-register.

Currency Restrictions

You must declare amounts over 5 million CFA upon entry and exit.

Other Entry Requirements

• The US State Department recommends that you monitor local media for breaking news and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• You should be aware of your surroundings and stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• It is recommended that you have contingency plans to leave the country and that these plans do not rely on US government assistance.
• You should also enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier for the US government to locate you in an emergency.

Local laws and customs

Chad is a predominantly Muslim country with conservative standards. It is important to respect local traditions, customs, laws, and religions at all times, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.

• It is illegal to photograph military sites, police assets and personnel, airports, and government buildings without a permit. All other photography requires a government permit.
• Homosexuality is not widely accepted in Chadian society. Same-sex sexual activity is a criminal offence in Chad, with penalties of imprisonment ranging from 3 months to 2 years and a fine of between 50,000 and 500,000 CFA francs.
• It is illegal to buy or sell precious gems without a license or to export them without permission.
• Burqas and other face coverings are banned as an anti-terrorism measure.
• Article 56 of the Chadian Constitution states that military service is obligatory for both men and women. The conditions for fulfilling this duty are determined by local authorities.
• Driving in Chad can be dangerous due to crime, flooding, and other hazards.
• An international driving permit is required, and the use of cell phones while driving is illegal.
• Driving a vehicle with tinted windows is prohibited.
• Traffic laws are often not followed, and roads are poorly maintained.
• Local security forces or people impersonating them may try to extort money from foreigners.
• It is advised to avoid traveling at night, including in N'Djamena, where armed robberies occur.
• It is illegal to use or possess drugs. Penalties are severe and usually include a prison sentence.
• The Islamic holy month of Ramadan is observed in Chad. During this time, eating, drinking, and smoking in public during the day may be illegal.

Health and safety

Chad is currently undergoing a political transition, with legislative elections due to take place before the end of 2024. There is a high threat of terrorist attacks, violent crimes (such as armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, and muggings), and civil unrest throughout the country, with an increased risk in some areas. The UK and US governments advise against all travel to parts of Chad, including the Lake Chad region and the borders with the Central African Republic, Libya, and Sudan.

Health Risks

• The CDC recommends that you make sure you are up to date on all routine vaccines before traveling to Chad.
• The CDC also recommends that you see your doctor at least a month before your trip to get any additional vaccines or medicines you may need.
• Some recommended vaccines include:
• Yellow fever
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Meningitis (for travelers going to areas of Chad that are part of the meningitis belt during the dry season)
• Polio
• Typhoid
• Rabies
• Malaria is a risk in Chad, and the CDC recommends that you take prescription medicine to prevent it.
• There are shortages of food, water, medicine, and medical supplies throughout Chad.
• Tap water is not potable, and the CDC recommends drinking or using only boiled or bottled water and avoiding ice in drinks.
• The CDC also recommends taking steps to prevent bug bites, such as wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats, and using insect repellent.
• Heat-related illness can be a concern, especially during the summer months when temperatures can reach 130 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Chad, and dust storms during the dry season (November-April) can diminish air quality.
• Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Chad.

Safety Risks

• There is a high threat of terrorist attacks, violent crimes (such as armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, and muggings), and civil unrest throughout Chad, with an increased risk in some areas.
• The US and UK governments advise against all travel to parts of Chad, including the Lake Chad region and the borders with the Central African Republic, Libya, and Sudan.
• Terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa remain active in the Lake Chad region and have carried out attacks on Chadian soldiers and military bases.
• There is a high risk of terrorist kidnapping in the Lake Chad Basin, the border areas with Cameroon, Sudan, and the Central African Republic, and the Sahel region (which includes Chad, Mauritania, Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali).
• Violent crimes, such as armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, and muggings, have occurred in Chad, and foreigners may be targeted.
• Demonstrations occur sporadically and have occasionally resulted in violence or the use of tear gas by authorities.
• There is a continuing risk of instability in Chad, particularly in its border regions and during major political events.
• Public demonstrations, including anti-government protests, are common in Chad and can become violent.
• Armed clashes between supporters of different political groups have occurred in Chad's capital, resulting in deaths and injuries.
• There is a high risk of carjacking on roads outside the capital, N'Djamena, even during the daytime.
• Armed robbery is common in some residential areas of N'Djamena, and foreigners may be targeted because they are considered wealthier.
• Road travel can be dangerous due to poor road conditions and low driving standards. Accidents, particularly involving motorbikes, are common.
• Do not travel by road after dark due to the risk of crime and poor road conditions.
• Military guards may think you are a security risk if you drive near government buildings at night.
• Police checkpoints are common, and officers may ask to see your passport, driving license, and vehicle registration documents.
• To travel outside N'Djamena, you must get authorization from the Ministry of the Interior.
• Medical facilities in Chad are poor, even in the capital, and may not meet US standards.
• Ambulance services may be below US standards in terms of training, equipment, and availability of emergency responders.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Most hospitals and doctors require cash payment upfront and do not accept insurance or US health insurance.
• Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment and repatriation.

Frequently asked questions