Safety and Security

The Department of State has issued a  Travel Warning for Chad to advise travelers of the current security situation. Avoid all travel to eastern Chad, the Chad/Sudan border area, the Lake Chad area, and the Chad/Central African Republic border area because of high levels of violent crime, the risk of clashes between Chadian security forces and criminal or other armed groups, and the risk of conflict among populations living in these areas. Boko Haram has been active in the far north and northern Nigeria in the Lake Chad area. Note the U.S. embassy limits and monitors the travel of official government personnel in the country. U.S. citizens residing in Chad should exercise caution throughout the country. U.S. citizens affiliated with humanitarian relief efforts should review security precautions and take measures to mitigate exposure to violent crime. The government of Chad requires a travel authorization (autorisation de circuler) for anyone traveling to a humanitarian zone or refugee camp.

To stay connected:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to keep up to date with important safety and security announcements.
• Follow the Bureau of Consular Affairs on Twitter and Facebook.
• Bookmark the Bureau of Consular Affairs website, which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution.
• Follow the U.S. embassy by visiting the embassy’s website. 
• In the event of an emergency, contact us at 1-888-407-4747 toll-free within the United States and Canada, or via a regular toll line, 1-202-501-4444, from other countries.
• Take some time before traveling to consider your personal security and checking for useful tips for traveling safely abroad.

CRIME: U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in the country should take steps to mitigate the risk from violent crime, and maintain caution at public gathering spaces and locations frequented by foreigners, including markets, restaurants, bars, and places of worship. Criminals often target individuals based on their dress, actions, and perceived vigilance or lack thereof. Legal recourse is limited in cases involving theft and robbery. Leave valuable items at home. Do not wear conspicuously expensive jewelry or clothing. Keep cameras and cell phones out of sight, and carry only minimal amounts of cash. Do not carry credit cards. Walk outside only during daylight hours and keep car doors locked.

Petty crimes such as purse snatching, pick-pocketing, and theft from vehicles occur, including in areas frequented by foreigners. Residents have been assaulted during armed burglaries. Carjacking, burglary, and vehicle thefts increase during times of political instability.  

VICTIMS OF CRIME: In general, response or recourse for victims of crime is extremely limited, if not non-existent. Local authorities, not the U.S. government, are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes against U.S. citizens.

The U.S. embassy can:

• Assist you in seeking medical assistance and provide a list of doctors.
• Assist you in reporting the crime to the police, explain legal processes in general terms, and provide a list of lawyers.
• Contact relatives or friends at your request and with your written consent.
• Replace a stolen passport.

As of June 2015, the emergency number for police assistance throughout Chad is 2020.

Please see our information for victims of crime, including possible victim assistance and compensation programs in the United States.