Niger: Travel Advisory and Call to Leave Due to the Security Situation (as of August 31, 2026)

As of August 31, 2026, an explicit travel warning is in effect for Niger: Travel to this West African country is currently strongly discouraged, and citizens currently in the country are urged to leave Niger. This is due to a significant deterioration in the security situation, which was further exacerbated by an attempted coup on August 29, 2026. Gunfights broke out between military personnel at the “Diori-Hamani” International Airport in Niamey, the local air force base, and the presidential palace; air traffic was temporarily suspended. Although the situation has stabilized since August 30, 2026, increased security checks are still to be expected in the capital and on access roads.

It is particularly important for travelers and those currently planning a stay in Niger to be aware that there is a high risk of kidnappings, terrorist attacks, and violent crime in the capital, Niamey, as well as in many other parts of the country. Foreign nationals are considered a prime target for terrorist groups and criminal gangs and are specifically targeted. Public places, government buildings, and security force posts are among the preferred targets for attacks. In recent months, there have already been several kidnappings of foreign nationals as well as attacks on the international airport in Niamey, which have resulted in fatalities and injuries and disrupted air traffic.

The regions of Tillabéri, Dosso, Tahoua, and Diffa are particularly affected by terrorist activity, especially in the border areas with Mali, Burkina Faso, Benin, Nigeria, and Chad. Targets there are primarily security forces, but also government officials, traditional leaders, and the civilian population. According to government regulations, one may leave Niamey by vehicle only with an armed escort, and foreign nationals may travel outside cities throughout the country only with an armed escort—a rule that also applies to staff of development and aid organizations. Domestic flights are practically only possible via special charter flights or UNHAS flights.

An additional danger exists in the northern parts of the country, particularly in the Aïr Mountains and parts of the Djado Mountains: landmines from previous conflicts have not yet been fully cleared there. Although the affected areas are known to local guides and the military, they must be avoided by taking a wide detour. Anyone who decides to travel to Niger despite the current travel warning should be aware of the significant risks involved, have a carefully planned safety strategy in place, keep sufficient supplies of water, food, medication, and fuel on hand, and remain reachable at all times.

For anyone currently in Niger or considering a trip there: Given the temporary relocation of diplomatic personnel out of the country, consular assistance cannot currently be guaranteed on site. Anyone who must still enter the country for business or personal reasons should adjust all travel arrangements accordingly and be aware of the limited options for receiving on-site assistance in an emergency. Given the volatile situation, the assessment regarding Niger may change further at short notice; therefore, current developments should be carefully monitored before planning any trip.

For all other destinations with a stable security situation, we’re happy to help you easily organize the necessary entry documents. Using our overview of all visa types, you can quickly find the category that matches your destination, and through our application form, we’ll submit your documents reliably and on time.