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Visa</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-19339" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-19339 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/visas/immigrant-visas-employment-based-immigration/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Employment-Based Immigration</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-19341" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-19341 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/visas/immigrant-visas-diversity-visa-program/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Diversity Visa Program</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-19342" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-19342 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/visas/immigrant-visas-returning-resident-visa/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Returning Resident Visa</span></a></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-305" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-305 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-4 ubermenu-has-submenu-stack" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class="uber-submenu-heading">Visa Waiver Program</div></div><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-305 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-stack" ><li id="menu-item-1033" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-1033 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><p style="height: 120px;">The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens of participating <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visa-waiver-program.html">countries*</a> to travel to the United States without a visa for stays of 90 days or less, when they meet all requirements.</p></div></li><li id="menu-item-1034" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-1034 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><a href="/visas/visa-waiver-program/" class="uber-expand btn btn-default">Are You Eligible?</a></div></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-306" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-306 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-4 ubermenu-has-submenu-stack" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class="uber-submenu-heading">Travel & Tourism in the U.S.</div></div><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-306 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-stack" ><li id="menu-item-2063" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-2063 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><img src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/travel_photo_no_text_243x115px_360.png" alt="woman standing in front of the Washington monument"></div></li><li id="menu-item-1036" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-1036 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><a href="/visas/travel-tourism/" class="uber-expand btn btn-default">Visit the U.S.!</a></div></li></ul></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-289" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-289 ubermenu-item-level-0 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto ubermenu-has-submenu-drop ubermenu-has-submenu-mega" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/" tabindex="0"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">U.S. Citizen Services</span><i class='ubermenu-sub-indicator fas fa-angle-down'></i></a><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-289 ubermenu-submenu-type-mega ubermenu-submenu-drop ubermenu-submenu-align-full_width ubermenu-autoclear ubermenu-submenu-retractor-top" ><li class="ubermenu-retractor ubermenu-retractor-desktop"><i class="fas fa-times"></i></li><li id="menu-item-22794" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-22794 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-5 ubermenu-has-submenu-stack" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class="uber-submenu-heading"> Alerts and Messages </div></div><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-22794 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-stack" ><li id="menu-item-22795" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-22795 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><p> Alerts and Messages for U.S. visitors to Benin.</p></div></li><li id="menu-item-22796" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-22796 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><a href="/u-s-citizen-services/security-and-travel-information/" class="uber-expand btn btn-default">See all Alerts & Messages</a> </div></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-331" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-331 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-5 ubermenu-has-submenu-stack" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"> <div class="uber-submenu-heading">Emergency Assistance</div></div><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-331 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-stack" ><li id="menu-item-22797" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-22797 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class=“addresspad addresspadback”> <p>U.S. Citizens with emergencies, please call (+229) 21-36-75-00</p> <p>Outside of Office Hours, contact: (+229) 21-36-75-00</p> </div></div></li><li id="menu-item-457" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-457 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/international-parental-child-abduction/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">International Parental Child Abduction</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-440" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-440 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/arrest-of-a-u-s-citizen/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Arrest of a U.S. Citizen</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-441" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-441 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/death-of-a-u-s-citizen/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Death of a U.S. Citizen</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-442" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-442 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/victims-of-crime/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Victims of Crime</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-443" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-443 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/emergency-financial-assistance/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Emergency Financial Assistance</span></a></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-333" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-333 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-5 ubermenu-has-submenu-stack" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class="uber-submenu-heading">Passports & Citizenship</div></div><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-333 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-stack" ><li id="menu-item-7183" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-7183 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/passports/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Passport Services</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-7184" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-7184 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/citizenship-services/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Citizenship Services</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-22790" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-22790 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/child-family-matters/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Child & Family Matters</span></a></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-332" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-332 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-5 ubermenu-has-submenu-stack" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class="uber-submenu-heading">Local Resources</div></div><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-332 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-stack" ><li id="menu-item-22791" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-22791 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/attorneys/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Legal Assistance</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-22792" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-22792 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/doctors/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Medical Assistance</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-22793" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-22793 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/notaries-public/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Notarial Services</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-22801" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-22801 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/local-resources-of-u-s-citizens/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Additional Resources for U.S. Citizens</span></a></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-334" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-334 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-5 ubermenu-has-submenu-stack" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class="uber-submenu-heading">Federal Programs</div></div><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-334 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-stack" ><li id="menu-item-450" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-450 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/internal-revenue-service-u-s-taxes/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Internal Revenue Service</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-451" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-451 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/selective-service-registration/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Selective Service Registration</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-452" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-452 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/social-security/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Social Security</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-453" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-453 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/veterans-affairs/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Veterans Affairs</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-454" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-454 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/voting/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Voting</span></a></li></ul></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-288" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-288 ubermenu-item-level-0 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto ubermenu-has-submenu-drop ubermenu-has-submenu-mega" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/our-relationship/" tabindex="0"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Our Relationship</span><i class='ubermenu-sub-indicator fas fa-angle-down'></i></a><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-288 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-mega ubermenu-submenu-drop ubermenu-submenu-align-full_width ubermenu-submenu-retractor-top" ><li class="ubermenu-retractor ubermenu-retractor-desktop"><i class="fas fa-times"></i></li><li id="menu-item-328" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-328 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-3 ubermenu-has-submenu-stack" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class="uber-submenu-heading">U.S. Mission Leaders</div></div><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-328 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-stack" ><li id="menu-item-26227" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-26227 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/our-relationship/our-ambassador/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Ambassador Brian Shukan</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-24649" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-24649 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/our-relationship/dcm/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Deputy Chief of Mission Brinille Eliane Ellis</span></a></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-1888" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-1888 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-3 ubermenu-has-submenu-stack" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class="uber-submenu-heading">U.S. Government Leaders</div></div><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-1888 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-stack" ><li id="menu-item-458" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-458 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/our-relationship/the-president-of-the-united-states/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">President of the United States</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-459" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-459 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/our-relationship/vice-president/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Vice President of the United States</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-460" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-460 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/our-relationship/the-secretary-of-state/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">U.S. Secretary of State</span></a></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-329" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-329 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-3 ubermenu-has-submenu-stack" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class="uber-submenu-heading">U.S. & Benin</div></div><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-329 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-stack" ><li id="menu-item-465" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-465 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/our-relationship/policy-history/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Policy & History</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-464" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-464 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/our-relationship/official-reports/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Official Reports</span></a></li></ul></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-285" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-285 ubermenu-item-level-0 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto ubermenu-has-submenu-drop ubermenu-has-submenu-mega" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/business/" tabindex="0"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Business</span><i class='ubermenu-sub-indicator fas fa-angle-down'></i></a><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-285 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-mega ubermenu-submenu-drop ubermenu-submenu-align-left_edge_item ubermenu-autoclear ubermenu-submenu-retractor-top" ><li class="ubermenu-retractor ubermenu-retractor-desktop"><i class="fas fa-times"></i></li><li id="menu-item-326" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-326 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-2 ubermenu-has-submenu-stack" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class="uber-submenu-heading">Doing Business in Benin</div></div><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-326 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-stack" ><li id="menu-item-471" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-471 ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/business/getting-started-benin/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Getting Started in Benin</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-470" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-470 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/business/commercial-opportunities-benin/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Commercial Opportunities</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-469" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-469 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/business/overseas-security-advisory-council/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Overseas Security Advisory Council</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-468" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-468 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/business/economic-data-reports-benin/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Economic Data & Reports</span></a></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-327" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-327 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-2 ubermenu-has-submenu-stack" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class="uber-submenu-heading">Doing Business in the U.S.</div></div><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-327 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-stack" ><li id="menu-item-22725" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-22725 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/business/getting-started-usa/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Getting Started in the U.S.</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-466" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-466 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/business/economic-data-reports-usa/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Economic Data & Reports</span></a></li></ul></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-8680" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-8680 ubermenu-item-level-0 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto ubermenu-has-submenu-drop ubermenu-has-submenu-mega" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/education-culture/" tabindex="0"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Education & Culture</span><i class='ubermenu-sub-indicator fas fa-angle-down'></i></a><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-8680 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-mega ubermenu-submenu-drop ubermenu-submenu-align-full_width ubermenu-autoclear ubermenu-submenu-retractor-top" ><li class="ubermenu-retractor ubermenu-retractor-desktop"><i class="fas fa-times"></i></li><li id="menu-item-8685" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-8685 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-4 ubermenu-has-submenu-stack" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class="uber-submenu-heading">Study in the U.S.A.</div></div><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-8685 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-stack" ><li id="menu-item-8691" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-8691 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><img src="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/2015/06/AMERICAN-SPACES-3.jpg"></div></li><li id="menu-item-8689" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-8689 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><p style="height: 75px;">Learn more about quality higher-education opportunities in the U.S. that you will not find anywhere else in the world.</p></div></li><li id="menu-item-8690" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-8690 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><a href="/education-culture/study-usa/" class="uber-expand btn btn-default">Find Opportunities</a></div></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-8686" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-8686 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-4 ubermenu-has-submenu-stack" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class="uber-submenu-heading">American Spaces</div> </div><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-8686 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-stack" ><li id="menu-item-20355" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-20355 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><img src="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/American-Center.png"></div></li><li id="menu-item-20356" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-20356 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><p style="height: 75px;">The American Corner is now the research and reference service of the Public Affairs Section at the U.S. Embassy in Cotonou.</p> </div></li><li id="menu-item-20357" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-20357 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><a href="/education-culture/information-resource-center/" class="uber-expand btn btn-default">Read More</a> </div></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-8687" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-8687 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-4 ubermenu-has-submenu-stack" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class="uber-submenu-heading">Local Programs</div></div><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-8687 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-stack" ><li id="menu-item-23496" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-23496 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/education-culture/education-exchange-programs/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Educational Exchange Programs</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-23497" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-23497 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/education-culture/education-exchange-programs/arsp/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Fulbright African Research Scholar Program/ARSP</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-23498" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-23498 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/education-culture/education-exchange-programs/fulbright-program/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Fulbright Foreign Student Program</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-23499" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-23499 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/education-culture/education-exchange-programs/hubert-h-humphrey-fellowship-program/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-26180" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-26180 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/education-culture/apply-grant-us-embassy-cotonou/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Grant Opportunities</span></a></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-24567" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-24567 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-4 ubermenu-has-submenu-stack" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class="uber-submenu-heading">Grants</div></div><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-24567 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-stack" ><li id="menu-item-24568" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-24568 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><img src="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/UsinBenin_Grants-5-150x150-1.jpg"></div></li><li id="menu-item-24569" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-24569 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><p style="height: 75px;">Grants are available at various times during the year.</p></div></li><li id="menu-item-24570" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-24570 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><a href="/education-culture/apply-grant-us-embassy-cotonou/" class="uber-expand btn btn-default">Read More</a></div></li></ul></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-287" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-287 ubermenu-item-level-0 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto ubermenu-has-submenu-drop ubermenu-has-submenu-mega" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/embassy/" tabindex="0"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Embassy</span><i class='ubermenu-sub-indicator fas fa-angle-down'></i></a><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-287 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-mega ubermenu-submenu-drop ubermenu-submenu-align-full_width ubermenu-autoclear ubermenu-submenu-retractor-top" ><li class="ubermenu-retractor ubermenu-retractor-desktop"><i class="fas fa-times"></i></li><li id="menu-item-488" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-488 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-3 ubermenu-has-submenu-stack" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class="uber-submenu-heading">U.S. Embassy</div></div><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-488 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-stack" ><li id="menu-item-2198" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-2198 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/embassy/cotonou/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">U.S. Embassy Cotonou</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-1849" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-1849 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class="addresspad"> <p>01BP 2012</p> <p>Cotonou Benin</p> <p>Phone: (229) 21 30 06 50</p> <p>Fax: (229)21 30 03 84</p> </div></div></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-22175" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-22175 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-3 ubermenu-has-submenu-stack" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class="uber-submenu-heading">Request for Proposals</div></div><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-22175 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-stack" ><li id="menu-item-22176" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-22176 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><img src="/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/2017/04/bid-solicitation-243.jpg"></div></li><li id="menu-item-22177" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-22177 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><a href="/embassy/u-s-embassy-cotonou-bid-solicitations/" class="uber-expand btn btn-default">Procurement Solicitations</a></div></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-478" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-478 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-3 ubermenu-has-submenu-stack" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><div class="uber-submenu-heading">Work With Us!</div></div><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-478 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-stack" ><li id="menu-item-1854" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-1854 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><img src="/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/work_with_us_no_text_244x116px_360.png" alt="a group of people in business attire with hands raised"></div></li><li id="menu-item-2124" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-item-2124 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-normal ubermenu-item-level-2 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto" ><div class="ubermenu-content-block ubermenu-custom-content ubermenu-custom-content-padded"><a href="/embassy/jobs/" class="uber-expand btn btn-default">Jobs at the Embassy</a></div></li></ul></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-284" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-post_type ubermenu-item-object-page ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-284 ubermenu-item-level-0 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-auto ubermenu-has-submenu-drop ubermenu-has-submenu-mega" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/news-events/" tabindex="0"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">News & Events</span><i class='ubermenu-sub-indicator fas fa-angle-down'></i></a><ul class="ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-284 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-mega ubermenu-submenu-drop ubermenu-submenu-align-full_width ubermenu-submenu-retractor-top" ><li class="ubermenu-retractor ubermenu-retractor-desktop"><i class="fas fa-times"></i></li><li id="menu-item-6999" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-tabs ubermenu-item-6999 ubermenu-item-level-1 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-full ubermenu-tab-layout-left ubermenu-tabs-show-default ubermenu-tabs-show-current"><ul class="ubermenu-tabs-group ubermenu-tabs-group--trigger-mouseover ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-4 ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-6999 ubermenu-submenu-type-auto ubermenu-submenu-type-tabs-group" ><li id="menu-item-20344" class="ubermenu-tab ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-taxonomy ubermenu-item-object-category ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-20344 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-full ubermenu-has-submenu-drop" data-ubermenu-trigger="mouseover" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-content-align-right ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/category/news/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">News</span><i class='ubermenu-sub-indicator fas fa-angle-down'></i></a><ul class="ubermenu-tab-content-panel ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-3-4 ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-20344 ubermenu-submenu-type-tab-content-panel ubermenu-autoclear ubermenu-submenu-retractor-top" ><li class="ubermenu-retractor ubermenu-retractor-desktop"><i class="fas fa-times"></i></li><li id="menu-item-20349-post-27425" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-dynamic-post ubermenu-item-20349 ubermenu-item-20349-post-27425 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-3 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-4" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-target-with-image ubermenu-item-layout-image_above ubermenu-content-align-left" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/the-united-states-of-america-celebrates-248th-anniversary-of-independence/"><img class="ubermenu-image ubermenu-image-size-ubermenu-image" src="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/4oJ2024-175x105.jpg" srcset="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/4oJ2024-175x105.jpg 175w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/4oJ2024-750x450.jpg 750w" sizes="(max-width: 175px) 100vw, 175px" width="175" height="105" alt="" /><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">The United States of America Celebrates 248th Anniversary of Independence </span></a></li><li id="menu-item-20349-post-27419" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-dynamic-post ubermenu-item-20349 ubermenu-item-20349-post-27419 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-3 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-4" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-target-with-image ubermenu-item-layout-image_above ubermenu-content-align-left" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/government-of-benin-recognizes-u-s-government-as-a-key-partner/"><img class="ubermenu-image ubermenu-image-size-ubermenu-image" src="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/Broughton-Decoration_FI-I-Website-175x105.jpg" srcset="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/Broughton-Decoration_FI-I-Website-175x105.jpg 175w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/Broughton-Decoration_FI-I-Website-750x450.jpg 750w" sizes="(max-width: 175px) 100vw, 175px" width="175" height="105" alt="" /><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Government of Benin Recognizes U.S. Government as a Key Partner </span></a></li><li id="menu-item-20349-post-27400" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-dynamic-post ubermenu-item-20349 ubermenu-item-20349-post-27400 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-3 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-4" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-target-with-image ubermenu-item-layout-image_above ubermenu-content-align-left" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/united-states-government-hands-over-new-school-building-to-community-of-adjaha/"><img class="ubermenu-image ubermenu-image-size-ubermenu-image" src="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/Adjaha-School-Inaug_FI-I-Website-175x105.jpg" srcset="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/Adjaha-School-Inaug_FI-I-Website-175x105.jpg 175w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/Adjaha-School-Inaug_FI-I-Website-750x450.jpg 750w" sizes="(max-width: 175px) 100vw, 175px" width="175" height="105" alt="" /><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">United States Government Hands Over New School Building to Community of Adjaha</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-20349-post-27366" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-dynamic-post ubermenu-item-20349 ubermenu-item-20349-post-27366 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-3 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-4" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-target-with-image ubermenu-item-layout-image_above ubermenu-content-align-left" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/initiative-launched-in-partnership-with-benin-to-prevent-conflict-and-strengthen-communities/"><img class="ubermenu-image ubermenu-image-size-ubermenu-image" src="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/CSSM_FI-I-Website-175x105.jpg" srcset="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/CSSM_FI-I-Website-175x105.jpg 175w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/CSSM_FI-I-Website-750x450.jpg 750w" sizes="(max-width: 175px) 100vw, 175px" width="175" height="105" alt="" /><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Initiative Launched in Partnership with Benin to Prevent Conflict and Strengthen Communities</span></a></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-20345" class="ubermenu-tab ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-taxonomy ubermenu-item-object-category ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-20345 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-full ubermenu-has-submenu-drop" data-ubermenu-trigger="mouseover" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-content-align-right ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/category/art-and-culture/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Art & Culture</span><i class='ubermenu-sub-indicator fas fa-angle-down'></i></a><ul class="ubermenu-tab-content-panel ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-3-4 ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-20345 ubermenu-submenu-type-tab-content-panel ubermenu-autoclear ubermenu-submenu-retractor-top" ><li class="ubermenu-retractor ubermenu-retractor-desktop"><i class="fas fa-times"></i></li><li id="menu-item-20350-post-24109" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-dynamic-post ubermenu-item-20350 ubermenu-item-20350-post-24109 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-3 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-4" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-target-with-image ubermenu-item-layout-image_above ubermenu-content-align-left" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/ambmahoney-meets-king-and-imam-djougou/"><img class="ubermenu-image ubermenu-image-size-ubermenu-image" src="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/ambvisitsthekg_usinbenin-1-175x105.jpg" srcset="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/ambvisitsthekg_usinbenin-1-175x105.jpg 175w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/ambvisitsthekg_usinbenin-1-350x210.jpg 350w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/ambvisitsthekg_usinbenin-1.jpg 750w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/ambvisitsthekg_usinbenin-1-200x120.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 175px) 100vw, 175px" width="175" height="105" alt="" /><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Ambassador Mahoney Meets King Kpetoni Koda IV and Imam Razack Issa Samari in Djougou</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-20350-post-23844" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-dynamic-post ubermenu-item-20350 ubermenu-item-20350-post-23844 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-3 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-4" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-target-with-image ubermenu-item-layout-image_above ubermenu-content-align-left" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/ambassador-mahoney-visit-to-uac/"><img class="ubermenu-image ubermenu-image-size-ubermenu-image" src="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/Amb.Mahoney-I-UAC-1-175x105.jpg" srcset="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/Amb.Mahoney-I-UAC-1-175x105.jpg 175w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/Amb.Mahoney-I-UAC-1-350x210.jpg 350w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/Amb.Mahoney-I-UAC-1.jpg 750w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/Amb.Mahoney-I-UAC-1-200x120.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 175px) 100vw, 175px" width="175" height="105" alt="" /><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Ambassador Mahoney Visits University of Abomey Calavi</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-20350-post-23430" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-dynamic-post ubermenu-item-20350 ubermenu-item-20350-post-23430 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-3 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-4" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-target-with-image ubermenu-item-layout-image_above ubermenu-content-align-left" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/ari-roland-jazz-quartet-in-benin/"><img class="ubermenu-image ubermenu-image-size-ubermenu-image" src="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/Ari-Roland-P-1-175x105.jpg" srcset="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/Ari-Roland-P-1-175x105.jpg 175w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/Ari-Roland-P-1-350x210.jpg 350w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/Ari-Roland-P-1.jpg 750w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/Ari-Roland-P-1-200x120.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 175px) 100vw, 175px" width="175" height="105" alt="" /><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Ari Roland Jazz Quartet in Benin</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-20350-post-23197" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-dynamic-post ubermenu-item-20350 ubermenu-item-20350-post-23197 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-3 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-4" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-target-with-image ubermenu-item-layout-image_above ubermenu-content-align-left" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/investigative-journalism-training/"><img class="ubermenu-image ubermenu-image-size-ubermenu-image" src="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/JournalismInvest-175x105.jpg" srcset="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/JournalismInvest-175x105.jpg 175w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/JournalismInvest-350x210.jpg 350w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/JournalismInvest.jpg 750w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/JournalismInvest-200x120.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 175px) 100vw, 175px" width="175" height="105" alt="Formation Journalisme Dan Glick" /><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Investigative journalism training with Dan Glick</span></a></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-20346" class="ubermenu-tab ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-taxonomy ubermenu-item-object-category ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-20346 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-full ubermenu-has-submenu-drop" data-ubermenu-trigger="mouseover" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-content-align-right ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/category/speeches/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Speeches</span><i class='ubermenu-sub-indicator fas fa-angle-down'></i></a><ul class="ubermenu-tab-content-panel ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-3-4 ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-20346 ubermenu-submenu-type-tab-content-panel ubermenu-autoclear ubermenu-submenu-retractor-top" ><li class="ubermenu-retractor ubermenu-retractor-desktop"><i class="fas fa-times"></i></li><li class="ubermenu-item"></li></ul></li><li id="menu-item-20347" class="ubermenu-tab ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-taxonomy ubermenu-item-object-category ubermenu-current-post-ancestor ubermenu-current-menu-parent ubermenu-current-post-parent ubermenu-item-has-children ubermenu-item-20347 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-full ubermenu-has-submenu-drop" data-ubermenu-trigger="mouseover" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-item-layout-default ubermenu-content-align-right ubermenu-item-layout-text_only" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/category/security-and-emergency-messages/"><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Security & Emergency Messages</span><i class='ubermenu-sub-indicator fas fa-angle-down'></i></a><ul class="ubermenu-tab-content-panel ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-3-4 ubermenu-submenu ubermenu-submenu-id-20347 ubermenu-submenu-type-tab-content-panel ubermenu-autoclear ubermenu-submenu-retractor-top" ><li class="ubermenu-retractor ubermenu-retractor-desktop"><i class="fas fa-times"></i></li><li id="menu-item-20352-post-25881" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-dynamic-post ubermenu-item-20352 ubermenu-item-20352-post-25881 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-3 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-4" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-target-with-image ubermenu-item-layout-image_above ubermenu-content-align-left" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/security-alert-u-s-embassy-cotonou-benin-december-21-2021/"><img class="ubermenu-image ubermenu-image-size-ubermenu-image" src="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/2015/12/default-blog-seal-175x105.png" srcset="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/2015/12/default-blog-seal-175x105.png 175w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/2015/12/default-blog-seal-350x210.png 350w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/2015/12/default-blog-seal.png 750w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/2015/12/default-blog-seal-200x120.png 200w" sizes="(max-width: 175px) 100vw, 175px" width="175" height="105" alt="Great Seal of the United States" /><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin </span></a></li><li id="menu-item-20352-post-22689" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-dynamic-post ubermenu-item-20352 ubermenu-item-20352-post-22689 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-3 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-4" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-target-with-image ubermenu-item-layout-image_above ubermenu-content-align-left" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/security-message-u-s-citizens-holiday-personal-security-reminder-2018/"><img class="ubermenu-image ubermenu-image-size-ubermenu-image" src="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/2015/12/default-blog-seal-175x105.png" srcset="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/2015/12/default-blog-seal-175x105.png 175w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/2015/12/default-blog-seal-350x210.png 350w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/2015/12/default-blog-seal.png 750w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/2015/12/default-blog-seal-200x120.png 200w" sizes="(max-width: 175px) 100vw, 175px" width="175" height="105" alt="Great Seal of the United States" /><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Holiday Personal Security Reminder</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-20352-post-22659" class="ubermenu-current-menu-item ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom ubermenu-item-object-ubermenu-custom ubermenu-dynamic-post ubermenu-item-20352 ubermenu-item-20352-post-22659 ubermenu-item-auto ubermenu-item-header ubermenu-item-level-3 ubermenu-column ubermenu-column-1-4" ><a class="ubermenu-target ubermenu-target-with-image ubermenu-item-layout-image_above ubermenu-content-align-left" href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/worldwide-caution/"><img class="ubermenu-image ubermenu-image-size-ubermenu-image" src="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/2015/12/default-blog-seal-175x105.png" srcset="https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/2015/12/default-blog-seal-175x105.png 175w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/2015/12/default-blog-seal-350x210.png 350w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/2015/12/default-blog-seal.png 750w, https://bj.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/162/2015/12/default-blog-seal-200x120.png 200w" sizes="(max-width: 175px) 100vw, 175px" width="175" height="105" alt="Great Seal of the United States" /><span class="ubermenu-target-title ubermenu-target-text">Worldwide Caution</span></a></li><li id="menu-item-20352-post-22876" class="ubermenu-item ubermenu-item-type-custom 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role="document"> <div class="content row"> <div class="mo-wrapper"> <main class="main"> <article class="post-22659 post type-post status-publish format-standard hentry category-security-and-emergency-messages"> <div class="entry-content"> <p><b>December 6, 2017</b></p> <p>As part of the Department of State’s continuous efforts to provide U.S. citizens traveling abroad with information about safety and security events, we are updating the Worldwide Caution with information on the continuing threat of terrorist actions, political violence, and criminal activity against U.S. citizens and interests abroad. This replaces the Worldwide Caution dated September 14, 2017.</p> <p>As terrorist attacks, political upheaval, and violence often take place without any warning, U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness when traveling. To better prepare for possible emergencies, U.S. citizens are encouraged to read <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages.html">Country Specific Information pages</a>, <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html">Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts</a> on <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en.html">travel.state.gov</a>before planning a trip.</p> <p>In addition to concerns stemming from terrorism, travelers should be alert to the possibility of political unrest, violence, demonstrations, and criminal activities when traveling. Country-specific information pages and Travel Warnings should be consulted to obtain the latest data on such threats.</p> <p>Travelers are urged to enroll in the <a href="https://step.state.gov/step/">Smart Traveler Enrollment Program</a> (STEP)<b> </b>to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. The Department uses these security messages to convey information about terrorist threats, security incidents, planned demonstrations, natural disasters, etc. In an emergency, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate or call the following numbers: <b>1-888-407-4747</b> (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or <b>1-202-501-4444</b> from other countries.</p> <p>U.S. government facilities worldwide remain in a heightened state of alert. These facilities may temporarily close or periodically suspend public services to assess their security posture. In those instances, U.S. embassies and consulates will make every effort to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens abroad are urged to monitor the local news and maintain contact with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.</p> <p>Terrorist groups including ISIS, al-Qa’ida, their associates, and those inspired by such organizations, are intent on attacking U.S. citizens wherever they are. Extremists may use conventional or non-conventional weapons to target U.S. government and private interests. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack to more effectively target crowds, including the use of edged weapons, pistols, and vehicles as weapons. Extremists increasingly aim to assault “soft” targets, such as:</p> <ul> <li>high-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)</li> <li>hotels, clubs, and restaurants</li> <li>places of worship</li> <li>schools</li> <li>parks</li> <li>shopping malls and markets</li> <li>tourism infrastructure</li> <li>public transportation systems</li> <li>airports</li> </ul> <p>In multiple regions, terrorists, guerrilla groups, and criminals seek to kidnap U.S. citizens to finance their operations or for political purposes. The Department also remains concerned that terrorists could again seek to down aircraft using concealed explosives or hijack commercial flights</p> <p>Private U.S. citizens should not travel to any country to participate in armed conflict. U.S. citizens are reminded that fighting on behalf of or providing other forms of support to designated terrorist organizations can constitute the provision of material support for terrorism, which is a serious crime that can result in penalties, including prison time and large fines.</p> <p>Below, we provide information specific to different regions and countries. Please consult <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en.html">travel.state.gov</a><u> </u>for additional information.</p> <p><b><u>AFRICA</u></b>: There are terrorist, guerilla, and insurgent groups in some parts of Sub-Saharan Africa, and the potential for al-Qa’ida or ISIS-inspired attacks is high in several West African countries and countries bordering Somalia. These groups have been known to take hostages, kill civilians, and deliberately target Westerners on occasion. There is political instability and civil unrest in some African countries. Under these conditions, the level of consular assistance available to U.S. citizens may be limited.</p> <p>If you are planning to travel to any of the following countries, please read our advisories carefully:</p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/burkina-faso-travel-warning.html">Burkina Faso</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/burundi-travel-warning.html">Burundi</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/cameroon-travel-warning.html">Cameroon</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/central-african-republic-travel-warning.html">Central African Republic</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/chad-travel-warning.html">Chad</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/democratic-republic-of-the-congo-travel-advisory.html">Democratic Republic of the Congo</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/eritrea-travel-warning.html">Eritrea</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/ethiopia-travel-warning.html">Ethiopia</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/kenya-travel-warning.html">Kenya</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/mali-travel-warning.html">Mali</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/mauritania-travel-warning.html">Mauritania</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/niger-travel-warning.html">Niger</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/nigeria-travel-warning.html">Nigeria</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/somalia-travel-warning.html">Somalia</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/republic-of-south-sudan-travel-warning.html">Republic of South Sudan</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/sudan-travel-warning.html">Sudan</a></p> <p><b><u>EAST ASIA and PACIFIC</u></b>: Armed terrorist and criminal groups are operating in the East Asian and Pacific region and may attempt to target U.S. citizens, particularly for kidnapping in the coastal areas and outlying islands of the eastern part of the Malaysian state of Sabah and the southern Philippines. Indonesia has witnessed an increase in terrorist-related arrests and foiled plots, and several small-scale attacks and attempted attacks have occurred. Periodic acts of violence in Thailand remain a concern. U.S. citizens are strongly warned to avoid all travel to North Korea/the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) due to the serious risk of arrest and long-term detention under North Korea’s system of law enforcement. A travel restriction on the use of U.S. passports to travel to, in, or from North Korea became effective in early September 2017.</p> <p>If you are planning to travel to any of the following countries, please read our advisories carefully:</p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/north-korea-travel-warning.html">North Korea</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/philippines-travel-warning.html">Philippines</a></p> <p><b><u>EUROPE</u></b>: Terrorist groups continue to plot attacks in Europe as foreign fighters return home from Syria and Iraq, while other individuals may be radicalized or inspired by ISIS propaganda. European authorities continue to warn of additional attacks on major events, tourist sites, restaurants, commercial centers, places of worship, and the transportation sector, frequently prompting heightened security at notable public venues and coordinated counterterrorism operations.</p> <p>If you are planning to travel to any of the following countries, please read our advisories carefully:</p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/turkey-travel-warning.html">Turkey</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/ukraine-travel-warning.html">Ukraine</a></p> <p><b><u>MIDDLE EAST and NORTH AFRICA</u></b>: Terrorist groups are very active in the Middle East and North Africa. The U.S. government remains highly concerned about possible attacks against U.S. citizens, facilities, businesses, and perceived U.S. and Western interests in the region. Iraq, Syria, Yemen, and Libya are considered violent and unpredictable war zones, and there is no official U.S. diplomatic presence in the latter three countries. U.S. citizens should avoid these areas. Terrorist groups have demonstrated capability to conduct attacks throughout the region, posing both a direct and indirect threat to U.S. citizens. Government officials throughout the region are concerned about the potential return of foreign fighters following ISIS’s territorial losses in Iraq, Syria, and Libya.</p> <p>If you are planning to travel to any of the following countries, please read our advisories carefully:</p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/algeria-travel-warning.html">Algeria</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/egypt-travel-warning.html">Egypt</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/iran-travel-warning.html">Iran</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/iraq-travel-warning.html">Iraq</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/israel-travel-warning.html">Israel, The West Bank, and Gaza</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/jordan-travel-warning.html">Jordan</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/lebanon-travel-warning.html">Lebanon</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/libya-travel-warning.html">Libya</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/saudi-arabia-travel-warning.html">Saudi Arabia</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/syria-travel-warning.html">Syria</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/tunisia-travel-warning1.html">Tunisia</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/yemen-travel-warning.html">Yemen</a></p> <p><b><u>SOUTH and CENTRAL ASIA</u></b>:<b> </b>The U.S. government assesses terrorist groups in South Asia may be planning attacks in the region, possibly against U.S. facilities, citizens, and interests. U.S. citizens should avoid travel to Afghanistan, as no region in the country is immune from violence. A number of established terrorist organizations, indigenous sectarian groups, and other militants pose a danger to U.S. citizens in Pakistan. Extremist elements are also active in India, as outlined in a recent emergency message. Terrorists have hit a wide variety of targets and institutions in Bangladesh.</p> <p>If you are planning to travel to any of the following countries, please read our advisories carefully:</p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/afghanistan-travel-warning.html">Afghanistan</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/bangladesh-travel-warning.html">Bangladesh</a> <u> </u></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/pakistan-travel-warning.html">Pakistan</a></p> <p><b><u>Western Hemisphere</u></b>: Insurgent groups, armed criminal gangs, and indigenous terrorists remain active in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Canada. U.S. citizens are particularly vulnerable to kidnap-for-ransom attempts and violent crimes of opportunity while visiting a variety of countries. Gang- and narcotics-related violence is of concern in several countries throughout the region. Political protests are common throughout the region, and in some countries they can devolve into violence. Haiti is particularly vulnerable to violent political protest activity, some of which has directly targeted U.S. interests. Venezuela’s current political crisis has turned violent on numerous occasions in 2017, including near-daily protests between April and August that have cost more than 100 people their lives.</p> <p>If you are planning to travel to any of the following countries, please read our advisories carefully:</p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/colombia-travel-warning.html">Colombia</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/cuba-travel-warning.html">Cuba</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/el-salvador-travel-warning.html">El Salvador</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/haiti-travel-warning.html">Haiti</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/honduras-travel-warning.html">Honduras</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/mexico-travel-warning.html">Mexico</a></p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/venezuela-travel-warning.html">Venezuela</a></p> <p>For further information:</p> <ul> <li>See the <a href="http://travel.state.gov/">Department of State’s travel website</a> for the <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/worldwide-caution.html">Worldwide Caution</a>, <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html">Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts</a>, and <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages.html">Country Specific Information</a>.</li> <li>Follow us on <a class="ext_link" href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/worldwide-caution.html#ExternalPopup" data-toggle="modal" data-url="http://twitter.com/travelgov">Twitter</a> and <a class="ext_link" href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/worldwide-caution.html#ExternalPopup" data-toggle="modal" data-url="http://www.facebook.com/travelgov">Facebook</a>.</li> <li>The Department of State’s Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) provides several resources to enhance the safety and security of the U.S. private sector abroad. Additional information on OSAC can be found on <a class="ext_link" href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/worldwide-caution.html#ExternalPopup" data-toggle="modal" data-url="http://www.osac.gov/">OSAC.gov</a> or by following OSAC on <a class="ext_link" href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/worldwide-caution.html#ExternalPopup" data-toggle="modal" data-url="https://twitter.com/OSACState">Twitter</a>.</li> <li>Mariners and U.S. citizens considering maritime travel should also review information at the websites of the <a class="ext_link" href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/worldwide-caution.html#ExternalPopup" data-toggle="modal" data-url="http://msi.nga.mil/NGAPortal/MSI.portal?_nfpb=true&_pageLabel=msi_portal_page_61">National Geospatial Agency</a>, the <a class="ext_link" href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/worldwide-caution.html#ExternalPopup" data-toggle="modal" data-url="https://www.marad.dot.gov/environment-and-safety/office-of-security/msci/">Maritime Security Communications with Industry Portal</a>, and the <a class="ext_link" href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/worldwide-caution.html#ExternalPopup" data-toggle="modal" data-url="https://homeport.uscg.mil/">U.S. Coast Guard</a> for information related to <a class="ext_link" href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/worldwide-caution.html#ExternalPopup" data-toggle="modal" data-url="http://www.uscg.mil/msib/">maritime</a> and port security globally.</li> </ul> <p class="byline author vcard bottom-topics">By <a href="https://bj.usembassy.gov/author/embassycotonou/" rel="author" class="fn">U.S. Embassy Cotonou</a> | 8 December, 2017 | Topics: <a 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