Traveling To Level Four Advisory: Is It Permissible?

The U.S. Department of State's four-tiered travel advisory system ranks countries based on their current safety and security conditions, ranging from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel). A Level 4 advisory is the highest advisory level, indicating life-threatening risks such as war, bombings, rebellion, and nuclear terrorism threats. The U.S. government strongly advises its citizens to avoid traveling to Level 4 countries and, if already in one, to consider leaving if it is safe to do so.

While it is not illegal for U.S. citizens to travel to Level 4 countries, it is highly discouraged due to the extreme risks involved. These risks include the possibility of death, imprisonment, kidnapping, or serious injury. Additionally, the U.S. government's ability to provide assistance to U.S. citizens in these countries is usually extremely limited. Traveling to a Level 4 country may also have implications for your travel or medical insurance, as some insurance providers may not cover you in such areas.

Therefore, while it may be allowed to travel to a Level 4 advisory country, it is essential to carefully consider the risks involved and take necessary precautions if travel is unavoidable.

The impact on insurance policies

Travel insurance is a type of insurance that covers financial losses associated with travelling, including trip cancellation or interruption, damage and baggage losses, rental property and rental car coverage, medical coverage, and accidental death coverage. It typically costs between 4% and 10% of the overall price of a trip.

In March 2020, the U.S. State Department issued a global Level 4 travel advisory, deeming every country on the planet a high-risk country. This advisory can have a direct impact on insurance plans, even if the country an individual is in is not heavily impacted by COVID-19. Insurance providers tend to follow official guidelines and expect their policyholders to do so too. As such, non-essential international travel can be considered high-risk behaviour by providers, which could compromise coverage.

Most travel medical insurance plans will exclude any coverage if individuals enter a Level 4 advisory country. However, this depends on the plan. For some, the Level 4 travel advisory may only affect specific benefits, such as not covering non-medical emergency evacuation. It is important to note that even if insurance is valid in Level 4 countries, individuals would probably not be covered if the country they are in is deemed a "restricted country" by their insurance plan. Restricted countries are determined by the insurance company and include high-risk places or destinations where the provider may not be able to administer benefits.

For expats, digital nomads, and other travellers holding annual plans, there may be options to increase or extend coverage for better benefits. For those without any current coverage, only a limited number of providers will offer a policy if individuals are already abroad.

It is important to be proactive and call providers to review policies and understand current coverage and its limitations.

The risk of wrongful detention

The US State Department, for instance, has assigned a Level 4 advisory to Afghanistan due to the risk of wrongful detention, among other factors. US citizens are specifically at risk of being arbitrarily detained and kidnapped in this country. The Taliban's reinstatement of public floggings and executions, as well as the disappearance of women's rights, further contribute to the unsafe environment.

Belarus has also been flagged for the risk of wrongful detention, particularly due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws and the limited ability of the US Embassy in Minsk to provide assistance.

Myanmar (formerly Burma) is another country with a Level 4 advisory, where limited healthcare resources and wrongful detentions are listed as risk factors.

Russia, facing a Level 4 advisory due to its invasion of Ukraine, is also noted for the risk of wrongful detention and kidnapping.

When a US national is detained overseas, the US government has specific boundaries within which it must work. While consular officers will provide assistance and ensure fair and humane treatment, they cannot represent the detainee in court or pay legal or medical fees.

To summarise, the risk of wrongful detention is a critical factor in travel advisories, and it poses a significant threat to travellers' safety and security. Travellers should carefully consider and review travel advisories before planning any trips to Level 4 countries to ensure their safety.

The risk of civil unrest

Civil unrest is a term that includes limited political violence, sporadic violent collective action, or nonviolent and mildly violent collective action. It is often characterised by violent and non-violent group acts such as riots, protests, and demonstrations. These acts tend to take place in times of peace, but can also occur during times of armed conflict.

The COVID-19 pandemic, economic difficulties, and high unemployment have been cited as potential causes of rising civil unrest globally. In June 2020, civil unrest had spread across the United States and internationally, with federal authorities being brought in to quell disturbances.

The impact of civil unrest can be devastating, resulting in deaths, injuries, and destruction of property and infrastructure. For example, the 1992 civil unrest in Los Angeles resulted in 53 deaths, 2325 reported injuries, and more than USD 735 million in damage to buildings.

Businesses located in areas of civil unrest must not become complacent and should develop disaster plans to protect their people and assets. Basic emergency preparations should include stocking emergency medical and water supplies, encouraging vigilance among building users, and following authorities' instructions.

The risk of terrorism

Terrorism is a significant concern for travellers, and it is important to be aware of the risks and take appropriate precautions. Terrorist attacks can occur anywhere and often take place without warning, so travellers should stay alert and informed about potential threats.

The US State Department and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) publish travel advice and alerts for their citizens, providing country-specific information on safety and security risks, including the threat of terrorism. This information can help travellers make informed decisions about their travel plans and prepare accordingly. It is recommended to check for updates before travelling and subscribe to alerts to stay informed.

Terrorist groups often target "soft" targets, such as public events, tourist sites, hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, transportation hubs, and religious sites. These locations are usually crowded and easily accessible, making them attractive targets for attacks. As such, travellers should be vigilant in public places, especially those that are considered potential targets. It is advised to identify multiple exits, monitor your belongings, and report any suspicious activity or unattended items to the authorities.

Additionally, travellers should be cautious when using transportation, including airplanes, taxis, and personal vehicles. When flying, it is recommended to book direct flights and avoid spending too much time in public areas of the airport. For taxis and rideshare services, it is important to select licensed vehicles and drivers, and to verify their identity before entering the vehicle. When driving, keep windows closed and doors locked, and always inspect the vehicle for any suspicious items or marks.

• Keep your cell phone fully charged and with you at all times.
• Memorize local emergency contact information.
• Stay in regular contact with family or loved ones back home.
• Limit your visits to American-branded shops and restaurants.
• Pay attention to messages and alerts from local authorities and your home country's embassy or consulate.
• Respond promptly to any check-in requests from your home institution or government.
• Be mindful of cultural differences and respect local laws and customs.
• Keep a low profile and avoid drawing attention to yourself.
• Avoid meeting strangers in unknown or remote locations.
• Identify potential safe areas, such as police stations, hospitals, and secure buildings.
• Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures, such as "run, hide, fight."

The risk of kidnapping

Traveling to a country with a Level 4 advisory is not prohibited, but the U.S. government may have a "very limited ability" to help travelers if their safety or security is at risk. Crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, and terrorism are common risk factors associated with Level 4 countries.

Kidnapping is a serious risk in some Level 4 countries, including Afghanistan, Burkina Faso, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Mali, Mexico, Russia, Somalia, South Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen. In Afghanistan, U.S. citizens are specifically warned about the risk of wrongful detention and kidnapping.

Kidnapping can occur anywhere, anytime, and for various reasons. It is often carried out by criminals seeking financial gain, ideological or political purposes, or to target specific individuals or groups. Kidnappers may use online scams, piracy, or terrorism to carry out the abduction. They may also target individuals who display signs of wealth, such as flying first class or staying at high-end hotels.

To reduce the risk of kidnapping while traveling:

• Be aware of the risks in your destination and avoid kidnapping hotspots.
• Use licensed taxi services and avoid traveling alone.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid displaying money or valuables in public.
• Be vigilant and report any suspicious or unusual activity.
• Have security measures and personnel in place, especially in high-risk areas.
• Keep a low profile and avoid drawing attention to yourself.
• Have a specialized travel insurance policy that covers kidnapping and ransom situations.

Frequently asked questions