Genvisec advises that travel to East Timor should be done with security support.

 

 

Crime

 

Crime continues to be a problem in East Timor, including gang-related violence, robbery (in some cases armed), assault and attacks on vehicles.

 

There have been a number of attacks on foreigners in Dili, including bag-snatchings, during the hours of daylight and darkness. Be vigilant at all times and avoid displaying expensive items of jewellery or carrying large sums of money. There have been reports of harassment and violence against women (including expatriates).

 

There are occasional violent incidents at nightclubs in Dili.

 

There are occasional incidents of fighting between groups in various districts around East Timor, often but not always related to martial arts groups. These incidents often involve stone throwing and occasionally machetes and knives. Most happen at night.

 

Local travel

 

Take care if you go outside after dark. Avoid travelling alone or to isolated areas. 

 

In rural areas there is a danger from unexploded ordnance from World War II and the Indonesian occupation. Don’t stray off well-used roads and paths.

 

Crocodiles have been seen at beaches near Dili.

 

Be particularly vigilant in border areas.

 

Road travel

 

Poor road quality and an increasing number of cars, especially in Dili, makes driving in East Timor hazardous. Accidents are frequent.

 

Drivers must hold a current driving licence valid for the class of vehicle they plan to drive. Third Party motor vehicle insurance is not available.

 

Take extra care when it is wet. Travel in convoy whenever possible. Main routes are often single-track mountain roads, which can deteriorate rapidly and become impassable, particularly during the rainy season (December-April).

 

Sea travel

 

There have been incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships in neighbouring waters. Mariners should be vigilant, reduce opportunities for theft, establish secure areas onboard and report all incidents to the coastal and flag state authorities. 

 

Political situation

 

The UN peacekeeping operation ended its mandate in December 2012. The security situation in East Timor has improved but underlying tensions remain and the security situation could deteriorate with little warning.

 

If you become aware of any nearby military activity you should leave the area immediately. If you are inside and become aware of military operations in your immediate area you should take cover away from windows.

 

Avoid any demonstrations and large crowds, as these have the potential to deteriorate quickly and turn violent. Areas where there have been violent incidents in the past include government buildings (including the Palacio da Cinzas and Palacio da Governo) and on the road to the Nicolau Lobato international airport, close to Comoro market.

 

Make sure your travel documents are up-to-date and available in case you need to leave at short notice. Keep a photocopy of the relevant pages of your passport to avoid any complications.

 

Local laws and customs

Don’t become involved with drugs of any kind. Penalties for breaking the law can be severe. 

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Money

 

Bring US dollars in cash or travellers’ cheques.

 

The limited banking system in East Timor will not exchange Pounds Sterling cash or Sterling travellers’ cheques. The same often applies to the Euro. Few places accept credit cards.

 

Health

Medical services in East Timor are limited, particularly outside Dili. There are very few dental and optical services. In the event of a medical emergency, evacuation to Australia or Singapore is likely to be the only option for treatment.  Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

 

Malaria, dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis are common throughout East Timor. There is usually an increase in dengue cases during the rainy season, which runs from November to April.  

 

If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 110 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.

 

Natural disasters

Major earthquakes can occur at any time. The last significant earthquake occurred in 2005.

 

The tropical cyclone season in East Timor normally runs from November to April. You should monitor local and international weather updates from the World Meteorological Organisation.

 

See our Tropical cyclones page for advice about what to do if you are caught up in a tropical cyclone.

 

Visas

 

A tourist visa costs US$30 and can normally be issued to the holder of a valid EU passport on arrival at the airport or seaport in Dili, provided entry into East Timor is regarded as being for a legitimate purpose. If you intend to enter the country via the Indonesia (West Timor) land border crossing at Atambua/Batigade you will need to apply for a visa in advance. This visa will be valid for a single entry and a stay of 30 days. 

 

If you plan to travel overland (rather than by the ferry) to the exclave of Oecussi you will need two further $30 tourist visas as well as the US$40 double-entry full page transit visa for Indonesia. Extensions cost US$35 for each subsequent period of 30 days, but you can only extend twice (i.e. a maximum stay of 90 days). Fines for overstay start at $70 for one to 30 days, rising to $270 for 91 days or more. There is a departure tax of US$10. For information on other types of visa see the Immigration Department of Timor-Leste.

 

Yellow fever

 

Yellow fever vaccination is required for travellers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

 

Passport validity

 

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of six months from the date of entry into East Timor.