The Department of State recommends that American citizens defer travel to Albania at this time due to increasing violence after the collapse of pyramid investment schemes and resulting political instability. The Government of Albania has declared a state of emergency and imposed a curfew from 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. The Government has also mandated that the workday for most businesses end at 3:00 p.m.

The Department of State has therefore ordered the departure of dependents of American Embassy employees and non-essential U.S. Embassy employees.

American citizens currently in Albania should depart the country as soon as possible. In the meantime, U.S. citizens should follow the Government-imposed curfew, continue to avoid crowds and exercise caution at all times. Depending on the conditions prevailing in a particular locality, American citizens should remain in their homes and avoid travel.

Country Description: Albania has undergone profound political change and continues to see significant economic change. Facilities for tourism are not well developed, and many of the goods and services taken for granted in other European countries are not yet available. Hotel accommodations are limited outside of Tirana.

Entry Requirements: A passport is required but a visa is not necessary for a tourist stay of up to 30 days. An extension may be granted by applying at the local police station. Please contact the Embassy of the Republic of Albania at 1150 18th Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20005, Tel: (202) 223-4942, for additional visa information.

Medical Facilities: Medical facilities are limited and medicine is in short supply. Doctors and hospitals generally expect immediate cash payment for health services. U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. Travelers have found that supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage is useful. Further information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international traveler's hotline at (404) 332-4559.

Crime Information: Albania has a relatively low rate of violent crime. However, street crime is common and occurs against tourists both day and night. Crime is generally directed at targets of opportunity, not at Americans in particular.

The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. The Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402. It provides useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad.

Currency Regulations: Credit cards and traveler's checks are not accepted in Albania except at the major new hotels in Tirana. Personal checks are not accepted anywhere.

Other Information: Several Albanian citizens were killed in a carbombing in February 1996. Following that incident a number of smaller, widely scattered bombings occurred. No one has claimed responsibility, and no Americans have been affected or targeted thus far.

Drug Penalties: U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in which they are traveling. Penalties for possession, use and dealing of illegal drugs are severe, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.

Registration and Embassy Location: U.S. citizens may register at the U.S. Embassy and obtain updated information on travel and security within Albania. The U.S. Embassy in Tirana is located at Rruga E Elbasanit 103; Telephone (355) (42) 32875.