Official Global Travel Advisories
- Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice
- Avoid all cruise ship travel outside Canada until further notice
Mandatory COVID-19 testing
To be allowed to board a flight to Canada, all air passengers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken within 72 hours of their scheduled time of departure to Canada. If the traveller has a connecting flight to Canada, the pre-departure test must be conducted within 72 hours of the last direct flight to Canada. This means they may need to schedule a COVID-19 test at their transit city within 72 hours of their direct flight to Canada.
All travellers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, arriving to Canada by land are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken in the United States within 72 hours prior to crossing the border into Canada.
Alternatively, travellers can present a positive COVID-19 molecular test taken between 14 and 90 days prior to departure.
More information on measures in place to enter Canada – Government of Canada
Timor-Leste (East Timor) Register Travel insurance Destinations
Last updated: ET
Still valid: ET
Latest updates: Editorial change - Information about the flooding in Dili removed
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Risk level(s)
Risk level(s)
COVID-19 – Global travel advisory
Effective date: March 13, 2020
Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice.
This advisory overrides other risk levels on this page, with the exception of any risk levels for countries or regions where we advise to avoid all travel.
TIMOR-LESTE - Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution in Timor-Leste due to the fragile security situation and the level of crime.
Safety and security
Safety and security
COVID-19 - Control measures
Nationwide control measures are in place until further notice. Stay inside your home or accommodations unless you need to:
- go to work
- go to a financial institution
- get essential goods, including food and medication
- seek health care
You must wear a face covering in public.
Follow the instructions of local authorities.
Political situation and civil unrest
Although the situation has been calm since UN peacekeepers departed in 2012, political tensions remain. Violent episodes could occur with little notice, especially during significant political events, such as presidential or parliamentary elections. Be vigilant in the periods leading up to, during and following these types of events.
Military operations may take place at any time throughout the country. If you encounter a military operation:
- leave the area immediately
- follow the instructions of local authorities
- remain vigilant at all times
Demonstrations
Demonstrations take place from time to time and are likely to occur in the vicinity of government buildings, institutions or residences as well as in the vicinity of Dili’s Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
- avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- follow the instructions of local authorities
- monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Crime
Gang-related violence, arson, robbery and vandalism occur, especially in Dili. Gangs in Dili have attacked cars with stones and darts fired from slingshots, particularly during the early evening hours and at night.
Violence between martial arts groups occurs, despite the government banning most of their activities. Avoid armed non-government groups, including martial arts groups, throughout the country. Exercise extreme caution at bars and nightclubs, where altercations between groups may take place.
Petty crime such as mugging, car theft, pickpocketing and purse snatching also occurs. Foreigners are frequently targeted by thieves. Do not show signs of affluence and be aware of your surroundings. Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.
Women’s safety
Women travelling alone may be subject to forms of harassment, violence and verbal abuse. Sexual harassment and groping of women is reported regularly.
Road safety
Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Roads in mountain areas can be narrow and winding. Driving conditions can be hazardous during the rainy season due to flash floods. Roads are poorly maintained and lack adequate lighting, and those outside of Dili are often unpaved. Serious accidents are frequent and travelling at night should be avoided. Frequent roadblocks occur.
Avoid driving or riding motorcycles in Timor-Leste, even if you are an experienced motorcyclist, as motorcycle accidents are common.
Do not travel alone, especially after dark or in secluded areas. Avoid unnecessary local travel. Public transportation services are poor and using them is not advised.
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
General information about foreign domestic airlines
General safety information
Facilities and services such as hotels, restaurants and public transportation are available in Dili but are very limited or non-existent elsewhere on the island. Government services are also limited.
Locals regularly find unexploded ordnance in open areas outside Dili. Be careful when trekking in rural areas and stay on well-used paths and roads.
There have been crocodile sightings on beaches in Dili and other popular destinations. Crocodile attacks have also occurred in areas across the country. Check with locals for the latest on the situation.
Piracy
Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occurs in coastal waters and, in some cases, farther out at sea. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.
Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau’s Piracy Reporting Centre
Entry/exit requirements
Entry/exit requirements
COVID-19 - Entry, exit and transit restrictions and requirements
In an attempt to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions and requirements for their territory.
Before travelling, verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any specific restrictions or requirements related to this situation. Consider even your transit points, as many destinations have implemented strict transit rules which could disrupt your travel.
These could include:
- entry bans, particularly for non-residents
- exit bans
- quarantines of 14 days or more upon arrival, some in designated facilities, at your own cost
- proof of a negative COVID-19 test result
- health screenings and certificates as well as proof of adequate travel health insurance
- travel authorization documents to be obtained before you travel
- border closures
- airport closures
- flight suspensions to/from certain destinations, and in some cases, all destinations
- suspensions or reductions of other international transportation options
Additional restrictions can be imposed suddenly. Airlines can also suspend or reduce flights without notice. Your travel plans may be severely disrupted, making it difficult for you to return home. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.
- Monitor the media for the latest information
- Contact your airline or tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt your travel plans
- Contact the nearest foreign diplomatic office for information on destination-specific restrictions
Foreign Representatives in Canada – Global Affairs Canada
COVID-19 - Entry and exit prohibited
The authorities of Timor-Leste have suspended the majority of commercial flights in and out of the country and closed all land and sea borders until further notice. Travellers, regardless of their citizenship, are not allowed to enter or exit the country unless they get a special permission from the Office of the Prime Minister of Timor-Leste.
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the authorities of Timor-Leste. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Timor-Leste. It must contain at least one blank page for the placement of a visa.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
You can obtain a visa on arrival at Dili’s international airport and the Port of Dili, based on the purpose and length of the intended stay. You must pay an entry fee of US$30 for a visit of up to 30 days.
You can apply to extend your visa past the 30-day limit at the Immigration Service in Dili. Extensions are US$35 for 30 days or US$75 for up to 60 days.
If you plan to enter by land, you need to apply in advance for a Visa Application Authorization. You can do so online or in person at an Embassy or Consulate of Timor-Leste. Once at the border, you can obtain a single or multiple entry visa valid for a stay up to 90 days, if you meet all of the requirements and pay the US$30 fee.
Carry the exact amount for the entry fee in cash. There are no currency exchange facilities at Dili’s international airport or at border crossings.
You must have a letter confirming your place of employment to obtain a work permit.
Tourist visa: Required
Business visa: Required
- More about visas - Immigration Service of Timor-Leste
- Apply for a visa extension - Immigration Service of Timor-Leste
Other entry requirements
Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to pay for your stay and departure from the country.
Children and travel
Learn about travel with children.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Health
Health
- Pandemic COVID-19 all countries: avoid non-essential travel outside Canada - April 22, 2021
- Global Measles Notice - July 23, 2019
Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Vaccines to Consider
You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health professional about which ones are right for you.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Japanese encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain. It is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is low for most travellers. Vaccination should be considered for those who may be exposed to mosquito bites (e.g., spending a large amount of time outdoors) while travelling in regions with risk of Japanese encephalitis.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Rabies
Rabies is a deadly illness spread to humans through a bite, scratch or lick from an infected animal. Vaccination should be considered for travellers going to areas where rabies exists and who have a high risk of exposure (e.g., are children, have an occupational risk, or in close contact with animals, including free roaming dogs in communities).
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
- Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
- There is currently a shortage of the yellow fever vaccine in Canada. It is important for travellers to contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of their trip to ensure that the vaccine is available.
About Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Food/Water
Food and Water-borne Diseases
Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.
In some areas in Southeast Asia, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A, schistosomiasis and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in Southeast Asia. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Travellers' diarrhea
- Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
- Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
- The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.
Travellers visiting regions with a risk typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Insects
Insects and Illness
In some areas of Southeastern Asia, certain insects carry and spread diseases like chikungunya, dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, lymphatic filariasis, malaria and Zika virus.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Chikungunya
There is currently a risk of chikungunya in this country. Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.
Dengue
- In this country, dengue fever is a risk to travellers year-round. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
- Dengue fever can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to dengue haemorrhagic fever, which can be fatal.
- The level of risk of dengue fever changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. After a decline in reported dengue cases worldwide in 2017 and 2018, global numbers have been steeply rising again.
- Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.
Malaria
Malaria
- There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this country.
- Malaria is a serious and occasionally fatal disease that is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no vaccine against malaria.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. This includes covering up, using insect repellent and staying in enclosed air-conditioned accommodations. You may also consider pre-treating clothing and travel gear with insecticides and sleeping under an insecticide-treated bednet.
- Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. See a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic, preferably six weeks before you travel to discuss your options.
Animals
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Some infections found in some areas in Southeastern Asia, like avian influenza and rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
Person-to-Person
Person-to-Person Infections
Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.
For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.
Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.
High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.
Medical services and facilities
COVID-19 - Testing
Contact local health authorities, or the nearest Government of Canada office abroad to find out where you can get a COVID-19 test.
Medical and dental facilities are very limited outside Dili and the level of dental care is poor throughout the country. Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury. Payment up front is often required.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
Laws & culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Laws
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.
Foreigners are not permitted to interfere or participate in political activities. Offenders are subject to fines, detention and deportation.
Driving
Traffic drives on the left.
If you are visiting for less than three months, you may drive with a valid Canadian driver’s licence. Longer-term visitors must obtain a local driver’s licence from the Department of Transport and Communications.
All motor vehicles must be registered with the motor vehicle office.
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Timor-Leste.
If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Timor-Leste, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.
General information for travellers with dual citizenship
Dress and behaviour
To avoid offending local sensitivities:
- dress conservatively
- behave discreetly
- respect religious and social traditions
Certain religious or cultural sites may require special permission to enter.
LGBTQ2 travellers
Timorese law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Homosexuality, however, is not widely accepted.
General safety information and advice for LGBTQ2 travellers abroad
Money
The currency in Timor-Leste is the U.S. dollar (USD). Newer dollar bills are favoured; many places will not accept bills issued prior to 2007. Be prepared to pay in cash because credit cards are not widely accepted. There are ATMs in Dili; however, they can charge high fees to dispense cash and can often be out of order.
Natural disasters and climate
Natural disasters & climate
Monsoons
The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from December to April. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.
Keep informed of regional weather forecasts, avoid disaster areas and follow the instructions of local authorities.
More about hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones and monsoons
Seismic activity
Timor-Leste is located in an active seismic zone and experiences frequent earthquakes. Familiarize yourself with earthquake security measures in hotels and public and private buildings. In the event of an earthquake, pay careful attention to all official warnings of the local authorities.
Assistance
Assistance
Local services
Emergency services
Dial 115 for emergency assistance.
Consular assistance
The Embassy of Australia in Dili is experiencing telecommunications network disruptions.
If you need emergency consular assistance, contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre:
- +1 613 996 8885 (call collect where available)
- sos@international.gc.ca
There is no resident Canadian government office in Timor-Leste. You can obtain consular assistance and further information from the Embassy of Australia in Dili under the Canada-Australia Consular Services Sharing Agreement.
Dili - Embassy of Australia
Jakarta - Embassy of Canada
For emergency consular assistance, call the the Embassy of Australia in Timor-Leste or the Embassy of Canada in Indonesia and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.