Guinea-Bissau: Current Safety Advisory Following the Military Takeover

Guinea-Bissau has been in a period of political transition since the military seized power on November 26, 2025. The constitutional order has been suspended, and new elections have been announced for December 6, 2026. The previously deposed President Embaló is currently abroad and has announced his return to Bissau for October 4, 2026. In connection with this announced return, increased activity by security forces has already been observed, and the general situation in the country is considered tense.

For travelers and visa applicants, this means in concrete terms that a short-term deterioration in the security situation must be expected, particularly in the run-up to the announced elections. There have been isolated reports of incidents involving the use of firearms. Curfews and other restrictions on movement may be reimposed at any time, sometimes at short notice and without much advance warning. Anyone planning a trip to Guinea-Bissau should closely monitor these developments and remain flexible with their travel plans.

Particular caution is advised around the presidential palace, military installations, and during demonstrations and large gatherings—these areas should be avoided entirely. Should the ousted president actually return to Bissau as announced, it is also recommended to avoid the area around the airport as well as the roads leading from there into the city, as increased security presence and possible incidents are to be expected there.

In addition to the political situation, Guinea-Bissau also faces structural risks: The country is among the poorest in the world, and rising living costs could lead to further demonstrations at any time. In addition, the crime rate is high, particularly in the capital, Bissau, and in areas frequented by tourists. Pickpocketing, purse snatching, and car break-ins occur frequently, while robberies are less common. Organized crime, particularly illegal drug trafficking, is widespread along the coastal areas and on the Bijagos Islands. In remote parts of the country, especially in the northern border region with Casamance in Senegal, the risk of landmines cannot be completely ruled out.

Given this overall unstable situation, it is particularly important for anyone considering a trip to Guinea-Bissau to clarify the entry requirements well in advance and with great care. Here at buch-dein-visum.de, we check the currently valid visa requirements for Guinea-Bissau on your behalf and assist you in compiling all the necessary documents so that your application can be processed smoothly. Our overview of all visa types also provides you with a quick summary of which options are generally available for your planned destination.

Anyone who wishes to or must travel despite the tense situation should, in any case, obtain adequate travel health insurance coverage, keep important documents such as passports and identification cards in a safe place as well as in digital form, and stay informed about the current situation through local and international media. Since curfews, demonstrations, and security measures can change on short notice, it is advisable to keep your travel plans flexible and to strictly follow the instructions of local security forces.

If you are making concrete plans to travel to Guinea-Bissau despite the current situation, we’d be happy to help you prepare your visa application correctly and efficiently. Start your application easily using our visa application form and let our team advise you on the necessary steps.