The U.S. Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago issued a State of Emergency in Effect for Trinidad and Tobago as tensions grow between the United States and Venezuela over deadly U.S. strikes targeting suspected drug traffickers.
On July 18th, 2025, the Government of Trinidad and Tobago (GOTT) declared a nationwide State of Emergency (SOE). On July 28th, Parliament extended the SOE for three months. The SOE is based on the emergence of a highly threatening criminal network that is operational both within and outside of Trinidad and Tobago’s correctional facilities. This network is believed to be targeting senior government officials and national institutions. U.S. citizens in Trinidad and Tobago should expect an increased police and military presence.
During the SOE, the GOTT will impose the following measures:
- The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) will have the authority to:Arrest individuals on suspicion of involvement in illegal activities;Search and enter public and private premises as necessary;
- Arrest individuals on suspicion of involvement in illegal activities;
- Search and enter public and private premises as necessary;
- Bail provisions are suspended for those suspected of committing a crime;
- Members of the Defense Force will operate under similar regulations to the TTPS;
- At this time, no curfew or restrictions on public assemblies are in effect.
The Government of Trinidad and Tobago will monitor the SOE daily, and restrictions may change.
As a reminder, U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to the following areas: Laventille (including Picadilly Street and Charlotte Street between Oxford Street and Park Street), Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite, and the interior of Queens’ Park Savannah and must avoid the following places after dark:
- Beaches
- Downtown Port of Spain
- Fort George
- Queen’s Park Savannah
Please see the State Department’s complete country information page here .
Actions to take:
- Carry your ID at all times.
- Cooperate with local authorities during their SOE-mandated activities.
- Monitor reputable news outlets and official Trinidad and Tobago government updates.
- U.S. Citizens seeking travel to the United States must have a valid U.S. passport.
- Report any suspicious activity to local authorities.
Please tell your U.S. citizen friends and family to sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (step.state.gov ) so that they may receive these alerts and updates too.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Port of Spain
C/O Consular Section- American Citizens Services
2 Marli Street, Newtown 190203
Trinidad and Tobago
Routine inquiries: +1 (868) 235-4500
Emergencies: +1 (868) 622-6371, then press 1
Non-Emergency inquiries: [email protected]
Website: tt.usembassy.gov or follow us on Facebook , X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram
Contact the State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs:
1-888-407-4747 toll-free from the United States and Canada
1-202-501-4444 from other countries or
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP ) to receive security updates