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U.S. State Department Issues Level 1 Travel Advisory for Aruba: Exercise Normal Precautions

🇺🇸 United StatesTravel Advisories1 recorded versionLast change 25 Aug 2026
ConfidenceVery high · 100%

Current rules

U.S. citizens are advised to exercise normal precautions when travelling to Aruba. Aruba is generally a safe destination, but petty crime is most likely to occur in popular tourist locations. Crimes against foreigners are primarily crimes of opportunity, such as theft of unsecured property or vehicle break-ins. The crime rate is low, however, armed robberies occur at businesses involved in drug or gang activity or storing large amounts of cash. It is illegal to bring guns, ammunition, and even spent shells or casings into Aruba without prior written authorisation, which can lead to arrest and long periods of detention. Travellers should review the Travel Guidance for Aruba for a safe trip.

Overview

The U.S. Department of State issued a Level 1 — Exercise Normal Precautions Travel Advisory for Aruba on 20 August 2026. The advisory states that Aruba is generally a safe destination for travellers.

Who is affected by the latest change

  • U.S. citizens travelling to Aruba
  • U.S. tourists
  • Business travellers
  • Students and researchers
  • U.S. citizens temporarily living in Aruba
  • Other travellers who use U.S. government travel-risk assessments

What changed in the latest version

Before

The previous travel advisory for Aruba was also Level 1, recommending people 'Exercise Normal Precautions'.

After

U.S. citizens should take normal safety steps when they travel to Aruba. Aruba is generally a safe place. However, small crimes are most likely to happen in popular tourist spots. Crimes against foreign visitors are mainly crimes of opportunity. These include stealing property that is not secure or breaking into vehicles. The crime rate is low. But, armed robberies do happen at businesses involved with drugs or gangs, or at places storing a lot of cash. It is against the law to bring guns, ammunition, or even used bullet shells or casings into Aruba without official written permission first. This can lead to arrest and being held in custody for a long time. Travellers should read the Travel Guidance for Aruba to ensure a safe trip.

This advisory explains the specific safety points U.S. citizens must think about when they plan or make a trip to Aruba. Travellers must now be especially careful with their personal belongings in popular tourist places. They must also understand the serious punishments for bringing in firearms or related items without permission. Not getting written permission for such items could lead to big legal problems. These include arrest and being held in custody for a long time. The advice on different types of crime helps travellers change their behaviour to lower risks. This means keeping property safe and avoiding business places that have high risks.

Explained simply

Imagine going on a trip to Aruba. The U.S. government says it's pretty safe, like when you're just going about your day at home. You don't need to be super worried, but it's still smart to keep an eye on your stuff, especially in busy places where tourists go. Don't leave your phone or wallet just sitting out. Also, it's super important not to bring any guns or even empty bullet casings into Aruba without asking permission first, or you could get into serious trouble.

Frequently asked

Version history

  1. v57Effective 20 Aug 2026PublishedInformational impact
    U.S. State Department Issues Level 1 Travel Advisory for Aruba: Exercise Normal Precautions

    The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 1 Travel Advisory for Aruba. This means that U.S. citizens should take normal safety steps. The advisory states Aruba is usually a safe place to visit. However, small crimes happen in tourist areas. Crimes against foreign visitors are usually unexpected and easy to commit, like theft. Also, armed robberies happen at businesses that deal with drugs, gangs, or have a lot of cash. The advisory also clearly says it is against the law to bring firearms, ammunition, or used bullet casings into Aruba without official written permission first. Doing so can lead to arrest and being held in custody.

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