State of Exception Still in Effect

October 8, 2009

To: All American Citizens
From: American Citizens Services Unit, Consular Section

The U.S. Embassy advises all American citizens residing in and visiting Honduras that the State of Exception that was imposed by the defacto regime on September 27, 2009 is still in effect, despite announcements made earlier this week by the defacto regime that its abrogation was imminent.  The Travel Alert issued on July 24, 2009 remains in effect and the U.S. Department of State continues to recommend that American citizens defer all non-essential travel to Honduras due to the unstable political situation.

The U.S. Embassy has advised its American personnel that they are not permitted to attend the Honduras/United States World Cup Soccer qualifying match in San Pedro Sula on October 10, 2009.  This decision is due to the current political crisis and general security environment in Honduras.  The Embassy recommends that all American citizens avoid this match and the area surrounding the stadium in San Pedro Sula on October 10th.

Barring a change in the security situation or the imposition of a daytime curfew, the U.S. Embassy in Tegucigalpa and the Consular Agency in San Pedro Sula will remain open to the public.  Non-immigrant visa services remain suspended for all but emergency medical cases.

The U.S. Embassy continues to recommend that American citizens monitor television and radio reports for updates pertaining to the current political unrest, as well as possible curfew announcements and/or constitutional restrictions.  The Embassy reminds American citizens that they should avoid large gatherings and that peaceful demonstrations can turn violent without notice.

The U.S. Embassy distributes its warden messages via email, and posts them on its website.  Messages received via SMS to cell phones are not U.S. Embassy messages and do not reflect U.S. government travel advice.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet website, where the current Travel Warnings and Public Announcements, including the Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, can be found.

Up-to-date information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Americans living or traveling in Honduras are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website, and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Honduras.  Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.

The U.S. Embassy is located on Avenida La Paz in Tegucigalpa; telephone (504) 238-5114, after hours telephone (504) 236-8497; Consular Section fax (504) 238-4357; E-mail: usahonduras@state.gov; Webpage: http://honduras.usembassy.gov