Where can’t Americans travel?
Americans cannot travel to several countries due to sanctions, visa requirements, or safety concerns.
1. Sanctioned Countries. These countries have blocked travel for Americans.
Americans are not allowed to travel to North Korea. The U.S. government restricts all travel to North Korea for American citizens.
Why can’t Americans go to North Korea?
Americans can’t travel to North Korea because of safety concerns. This ‘do not travel order’ was issued by the U.S. Department of State after the 2017 death of Otto Warmbier, an American college student. Warmbier was arrested while on an organized tour of North Korea. He returned to the U.S.A. in a coma and later died.
2. Countries with Strict or Complex Visa Requirements for American Citizens
Americans are legally prohibited from traveling to Cuba unless they are working with a licensed operator for family visits, official government business, journalism, professional or educational purposes, religious activities, humanitarian projects, or support of the Cuban people.
A total of 31 countries require traditional visas obtained at an embassy or consulate office before tourist travel. Among these, some of the most restrictive and difficult visas include:
- Eritrea
- Turkmenistan
- Equatorial Guinea
3. Countries on the U.S. State Department Level 4 Travel Advisory
The countries below are under the U.S. State Department’s Level 4 Travel Advisory. These countries face security challenges or strained diplomatic relations with the U.S. In these countries, the U.S. government has limited ability to assist American citizens. Please check the U.S. State Department site for more information on these countries.
State Department Level 4 Countries (April 2025)
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Afghanistan |  |
Belarus |
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Burkina Faso |  |
Burma (Myanmar) |
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Central African Republic |  |
Democratic Republic of the Congo |
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Haiti |  |
Iran |
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Iraq |  |
Lebanon |
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Libya |  |
Mali |
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North Korea |  |
Russia |
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Somalia |  |
South Sudan |
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Sudan |  |
Syria |
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Ukraine |  |
Venezuela |
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Yemen |
Ensuring Your Travel Documents are in Order
Before planning a trip to any country, ensure that all travel documents are up-to-date. This is particularly important for Americans who wish to travel to countries with bureaucratic or safety challenges.
See also: Documents Needed for U.S. Passport Application
Preparing for International Travel
When traveling to countries with complex visa rules or travel advisories, having a valid U.S. passport is just the first step. It’s essential to:
- Check Passport Validity: Many countries require your passport be valid for at least six months beyond the duration of your visit. If your passport is nearing expiration, renew it in advance.
- Understand Visa Requirements: For countries with strict visa rules, begin the application process early to account for delays or additional documentation required. Check visa requirements for your destination in advance.
For detailed guidance on getting or renewing a U.S. passport, read How to Get a U.S. Passport in Two Weeks or Less.
» MORE:
Where Can Americans Travel Without A Passport
Renewing Your U.S. Passport: A How-To
U.S. Passport Pricing Details
Applying for a Passport Nearby
How to Expedite Your Passport
Time to Receive Your Passport
Urgent Passport Procedures
This page was updated on February 19th, 2025.