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Travel Warning: Timor-Leste
Consular Affairs BulletinsThe U.S. Department of State issued the following Travel Warning on September 12:
TIMOR-LESTE
September 12, 2007This Travel Warning is being updated to inform Americans of continued potential for violence in Timor-Leste (formerly known as East Timor) and to warn American citizens to defer travel to Timor-Leste at this time. Americans currently in Timor-Leste should evaluate carefully their safety and security situation in light of this Travel Warning. This supersedes the Travel Warning issued on May 11, 2007.
The Department of State advises U.S. citizens of the continuing potential for violent civil unrest in Timor-Leste. U.S. citizens should defer travel to Timor-Leste at this time. Those already in Timor-Leste should exercise extreme caution and maintain a high level of security awareness while moving about in Dili; be alert to the potential for violence; and avoid demonstrations, large gatherings, and areas where disturbances have occurred. Demonstrations can occur at or near symbols and institutions of the Government of Timor-Leste, including government buildings and houses belonging to prominent politicians. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.
Since April 2006, Timor-Leste has experienced outbreaks of politically-related civil unrest, and the risk of further violent unrest continues. Although parliamentary elections were held in a largely peaceful atmosphere in June, violent disturbances broke out in several areas of Dili and in the Eastern districts of Baucau and Viqueque after the President’s August 6, 2007, announcement of the new government. A UN convoy traveling from Baucau to Viqueque was ambushed by rock throwers. Private, diplomatic, and UN vehicles also have been pelted with rocks throughout Dili. Areas affected included Dili’s international airport and its surroundings, disrupting access to and from the airport. Violence has occurred in the areas around internally displaced persons camps near the Comoro market and Bairo Pite, and could erupt again without warning. American citizens passing through these areas should exercise caution. Americans remaining in Timor-Leste despite this warning should monitor the media for updates on the safety and security situation, and check the status of flights before traveling to the airport.
After the collapse of civil order in April and May 2006, international troops and police arrived. The security situation improved, but serious security concerns remain:
Indiscriminate communal violence continues throughout the country. Gang-related violence occurs often in Dili, and Americans risk intentional or inadvertent injury. Stone-throwing attacks on vehicles are frequent, and have affected American citizens on several occasions.
Several areas of Dili have become sites of chronic security incidents, particularly around the camps for internally displaced persons. Americans are advised to avoid these areas and check with the U.S. Embassy regarding other areas of concern.
Sexual assaults against foreign nationals have occurred. Female travelers are advised to exercise particular caution and to avoid travel alone on foot or in taxis, especially at night and in unfamiliar or isolated areas.
Criminal violence remains a problem. Criminals continue to operate illegal checkpoints in some areas of Dili, frequently stopping taxis and minibuses to extort money from drivers and passengers.In some cases, Timorese are identified for more violent targeting. American citizens are advised against using taxis or minibuses for transportation.
The Government of Australia has advised its citizens against travel to East Timor, and warns that Australians and Australian interests may be specifically targeted. Attackers could indiscriminately target foreigners, including Americans. The Australian travel advice can be viewed at http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/East_Timor.
Americans in Timor-Leste should immediately register at the U.S. Embassy and obtain all recent messages sent to the American community in Timor-Leste. The U.S. Embassy in Dili can be reached at 670-332-4684 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. local time or the duty officer outside business hours at 670-723-0949. The U.S. Embassy is located on Avenida de Portugal in the Pantai Kelapa area. U.S. citizens living in or traveling to Timor-Leste can also register through the State Department’s travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov.
For the latest security information, Americans living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov/, where the current Worldwide Cautions, Public Announcements, and Travel Warnings can be found. Travelers should also consult the Department of State’s latest Consular information Sheet for Timor-Leste. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada. Callers outside of the United States and Canada may call 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 on U.S. federal holidays).
Rudd makes E Timor security vow
Australia will continue to help East Timor with its security needs, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has said.Mr Rudd, who has pledged to withdraw Australian forces from Iraq, hinted that 1,000 soldiers in East Timor would stay until they were no longer needed.
He was speaking after meeting East Timorese leaders during a visit to the capital Dili with UN chief Ban Ki-Moon.
East Timor called for international help last year after elections were marred by violence.
Australia sent a force of 1,000 troops to help to quell the unrest, and about 1,500 UN police were also deployed.
“From our point of view, as the Australian government, we stand ready to assist our friends in Timor Leste with their continuing security needs,” Mr Rudd said.
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon also pledged to help to ensure “peace and stability” in the tiny country.
East Timor’s President Jose Ramos-Horta said he had reiterated to Mr Rudd that the Australian-led International Stabilisation Force should stay until 2008 at least.
“We should not repeat the mistakes of the past, a hasty withdrawal of the UN and our friends,” Mr Ramos-Horta said.
The former Portuguese colony broke away from 25 years of Indonesian rule in a 1999 referendum, and was placed under UN protection until 2002.
Mr Rudd became prime minister in early December, following a landslide victory over John Howard in November elections.
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/2/hi/asia-pacific/7143915.stmCountry profile: East Timor
East Timor’s road to independence – achieved on 20 May 2002 – was long and traumatic.The people of the first new nation of the century suffered some of the worst atrocities of modern times.
An independent report has said at least 100,000 Timorese died as a result of Indonesia’s 25-year occupation, which ended in 1999.
OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW | FACTS | LEADERS | MEDIA
Indonesia invaded shortly after Portugal withdrew in 1975 and forcefully tried to subdue a resentful people and guerrillas fighting for independence.
World powers were accused of contributing to the subsequent calamity by turning a blind eye or by actively supporting the occupation by supplying weapons.
Indonesia finally agreed in 1999 to let the East Timorese choose between independence and local autonomy. Militia loyal to Indonesia, apparently assisted by the military, tried in vain to use terror to discourage a vote for independence.
When the referendum showed overwhelming support for independence, the loyalists went on the rampage, murdering hundreds and reducing towns to ruins. An international peacekeeping force halted the mayhem and paved the way for a United Nations mission which helped East Timor back onto its feet.
The rebuilding of East Timor has been one of the UN’s biggest success stories. The UN Mission of Support in East Timor, Unmiset, wound up in May 2005.
But security has been precarious. An outbreak of gang violence in 2006 prompted the UN Security Council to set up a new peacekeeping force, Unmit. The UN said poverty and unemployment had exacerbated the unrest.
As one of Asia’s poorest nations, East Timor will rely on outside help for many years. The infrastructure is poor and the country is drought-prone.
However, vast offshore oil and gas fields in the Timor Sea hold much potential. East Timor and Australia have agreed to share revenues from the reserves. As a part of the deal, a decision on the disputed maritime border in the area was deferred.
East Timor is trying to foster national reconciliation. Indonesia and East Timor set up bodies to bring the perpetrators of the 1999 violence to justice. However a 2005 UN report concluded that the systems had failed to deliver. The Indonesian special court acquitted most of the 18 indicted suspects.
FACTS
OVERVIEW | FACTS | LEADERS | MEDIA
* Full name: Democratic Republic of East Timor
* Population: 857,000 (UN, 2005)
* Capital: Dili
* Area: 14,609 sq km (5,641 sq miles)
* Major languages: Tetum and Portuguese (official), Indonesian and English (working languages)
* Major religion: Christianity
* Life expectancy: 56 years (women), 54 years (men) (UN)
* Monetary unit: 1 US dollar = 100 cents
* Main exports: Coffee, marble, potential for oil exports
* GNI per capita: $750 (World Bank, 2006)
* Internet domain: .tl
* International dialling code: +670LEADERS
OVERVIEW | FACTS | LEADERS | MEDIA
President: Jose Ramos-Horta
Jose Ramos-Horta, a Nobel Peace Prize winner and former prime minister, became president following elections in May 2007.
He gained nearly 70% of the vote. His rival, the speaker of parliament Francisco Guterres, conceded defeat.
Mr Ramos-Horta said five years of hard work lay ahead. He promised to work for the poor and to foster national unity.
Mr Ramos-Horta spent two decades in exile and was a key figure in East Timor’s campaign for independence.
He succeeded independence hero Xanana Gusmao, who was chosen by an overwhelming majority in polls in April 2002 to be the fledgling country’s first head of state. The role is mainly ceremonial.
Prime minister: Xanana Gusmao
Independence hero Xanana Gusmao was named new prime minister in August 2007, sparking violent protests from supporters of the former ruling Fretelin party, which promised to challenge the decision in court.
President Ramos-Horta chose him as premier, breaking a political impasse following inconclusive parliamentary polls in June.
Fretilin won 21 seats in the 65-member Parliament, well short of a majority. Mr Gusmao’s party won 18 but formed a coalition comprising 37 seats.
Mr Gusamao, who was the country’s first president, is revered by many in East Timor for leading the armed resistance to Indonesian rule.
He set up the National Congress of East Timor’s Reconstruction (CNRT) in 2007 to wrest power from Fretilin.
MEDIA
OVERVIEW | FACTS | LEADERS | MEDIA
East Timor’s national public radio and TV services launched in May 2002, replacing the interim broadcasting services operated by the UN.
Public radio is said to reach some 90% of the population; public TV has a smaller coverage.
Community radio stations play a key role in the process of national reconstruction. Many of them receive funding, training and equipment from international agencies and organisations.
East Timor has two daily newspapers and a number of weekly titles. BBC World Service programmes in English and Portuguese are available in Dili via BBC 105.9 FM.
The press
# Suara Timor Lorosae – daily
# Timor Post – daily
# Jornal Nacional Semanario – weeklyTelevision
# Televisao de Timor Leste (TVTL) – publicRadio
# Radio Nacional de Timor Leste (RTL) – public
# Radio Falintil/Voz da Esperanca – community station which began life as a clandestine station operated by East Timor rebels
# Radio Timor Kmanek (RTK) – Catholic Church radioStory from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/2/hi/asia-pacific/country_profiles/1508119.stmPublished: 2007/11/30 08:37:46 GMT
Last Updated 07/11/2007, 02:28:31
Select text size:
Large size textMedium size textNormal size textAn Australian soldier has been found dead from a gunshot wound in East Timor.
The Defence Force says the soldier was found in a barracks area in Dili on Monday afternoon, dead from a gunshot wound.
The soldier was serving as part of the International Stabilisation Force in East Timor.
In a statement the Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston says the circumstances of the soldiers death are still uncertain and will be formally investigated by the ADF.
He says a formal Commission of Inquiry will also be carried out.
The soldier’s name, sex and rank haven’t been released at this time and the ADF is requesting privacy for the soldier’s family.
http://www.radioaustralia.net.au/news/stories/s2083553.htm
Sorry about that, I meant to put it up there and forgot.
Are you researching for a trip or just for the sake of knowledge?
Got this one in the in-box today
Australian Troops Targeted By Rebels in East Timor
By Phil Mercer
Sydney
08 February 2008Mercer report – Download (MP3) audio clip
Mercer report – Listen (MP3) audio clipThere has been an explosion at an army base in East Timor shared by Australian and New Zealand peacekeepers. Earlier this week, East Timorese rebels fired at Australian troops southwest of the capital, Dili. The rebels are led by fugitive East Timor army Major Alfredo Reinado. From Sydney, Phil Mercer reports.
The explosion happened at Camp Phoenix, which houses parts of the International Stabilization Force, in the center of Dili. Both Australian and New Zealand troops are based there.
No injuries have been reported and an investigation by United Nations police is under way to try to determine the cause of the blast.
Authorities have not said whether the incident may be linked to an incident in Ermera district on Wednesday. Shots were fired at an Australian patrol, which did not return fire and left the area.
Australian and New Zealand forces, along with others from Portugal and Malaysia, were sent to East Timor to restore order after a wave of civil unrest in 2006.
The violence forced tens of thousands of East Timorese from their homes in the capital, Dili, and surrounding regions. Relief agencies are still struggling to cope.
Aid worker Luis Viera says life is difficult for those forced to live in relief camps set up to house displaced people.
“People have fled to places that weren’t built to support such large populations, so you have to deal with space constraints, shelter constraints, the issues relating to water sanitation, not enough toilets, etcetera,” he said. “So, yeah, the situation is of course very, very difficult.”
East Timor’s Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao (L) speaks to a group of petitioners in Dili who left East Timor’s armed forces in 2006 under the leadership of Major Alfredo Reinado, 07 Feb 2008
East Timor’s Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao (L) speaks to a group of petitioners in Dili who left East Timor’s armed forces in 2006 under the leadership of Major Alfredo Reinado, 07 Feb 2008
Threats of more instability have prevented many from leaving the squalid camps.Rebels led by Alfredo Reinado, a renegade former military police chief, are thought to have been responsible for Wednesday’s shooting incident. Reinado has been on the run since he was arrested on charges of illegal weapons distribution, desertion and attempted murder following the violence in 2006. He has led a revolt against East Timor’s government and authorities there blame him for much of the trouble two years ago.
East Timor, a former Portuguese colony, voted to break away from Indonesia in a violence-marred vote in 1999.
It became independent in 2002 after a period of U.N. administration, but remains one of the world’s poorest countries.
From Australia Smart traveller today
East Timor
East Timor overall This Advice is current for Monday, 11 February 2008.This advice has been reviewed and reissued. It contains new information under Civil Unrest/Political Tension (President Ramos-Horta shot on 11 February 2008), Local Travel (unsafe bridge), Natural Disasters, Severe Weather and Climate (update) and Where to Get Help (embassy website). The overall level of the advice has not changed.
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Summary* We advise you to reconsider your need to travel to East Timor at this time because of the fragile security situation and the risk of violent civil unrest. The situation could deteriorate without warning. There is a possibility that Australians and Australian interests may be specifically targeted.
* East Timor President Jose Ramos-Horta was shot in an attack on his home on 11 February 2008. Australians are advised to exercise extreme caution at this time and avoid unnecessary local travel. You should also monitor local information sources for details of possible new safety or security risks.
* If you decide to travel to East Timor, you should exercise extreme caution. Violence could occur anywhere at any time in East Timor. You should take particular care to avoid demonstrations, street rallies and public gatherings as they may turn violent and you could get caught up in attacks directed at others.
* You should check the security situation with the United Nations Police (UNPOL) by telephone on 112 or (670) 723 0365.
* In Dili, there have been violent disturbances in several areas since May 2006. Violence could erupt without notice. Known trouble spots include Nicolau Lobato Airport and its surrounds, Bebonuk including the Comoro River, Bairo Pite, Tasitolu, Aitarak Laran, the Comoro Market area and internally displaced people’s (IDP) camps, including near the Dili port. You should exercise extreme caution if passing through these areas.
* Explosive devices have been detonated in Dili, including at the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) base known as Camp Phoenix on 7 February 2008, in Aitarak Laran on 6 February 2008 and outside the Australian Defence Co-operation House, adjacent to the Australian Embassy on 4 October 2007. No-one was injured in any of these incidents.
* During February 2008, changes to food distribution and negotiations between the government and petitioners (a group of former soldiers) in Dili are likely to lead to increased tension.
* There have been continuing incidents of gang-related violence, robbery, arson and vandalism in Dili. Australians and other foreigners have been caught up in incidents of armed robbery and assault. Some gangs in Dili have attacked cars with potentially lethal stones and darts fired from slingshots, particularly during the early evening and at night. You should exercise caution if using taxis. You should also avoid armed irregular groups, including martial arts groups, both in Dili and the districts.
* Violent disturbances have occurred outside the city of Dili, most recently in August 2007. Since then, the situation has remained relatively calm. You should be aware that unauthorised road blocks may appear anywhere in East Timor.
* Staff of the Australian Embassy have been advised to avoid travel to known trouble spots (listed above) and take additional practical security measures, particularly if travelling at night.
* Driving conditions are frequently hazardous due to poor road quality, poor signage and lack of lighting. If you decide to travel outside Dili, you should seek advice from the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor Leste (UNMIT). See the Local Travel section below for more information.
* Because of the uncertain security situation, we strongly recommend that you register your travel and contact details with us, so we can contact you in an emergency.
* Be a smart traveller. Before heading overseas:
o organise comprehensive travel insurance and check what circumstances and activities are not covered by your policy
o subscribe to this travel advice to receive free email updates each time it’s reissued.On this page:
Summary
Safety and Security
For Parents
Local Laws
Local Customs
Entry and Exit Requirements
Health Issues
Where to Get Help
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Safety and Security
TerrorismTerrorism is a threat throughout the world. You can find more information about this threat in our General Advice to Australian Travellers.
In planning your activities, consider the kind of places known to be terrorist targets and the level of security provided. Possible targets includes hotels, clubs, restaurants, bars, embassies, schools, churches and other places of worship, shops, outdoor recreation events, tourist areas and transport hubs or identifiably western businesses and interests.
Civil Unrest/Political TensionWe advise you to reconsider your need to travel to East Timor at this time because of the fragile security situation and the risk of violent civil unrest. The situation could deteriorate without warning.
East Timor President Jose Ramos-Horta was shot during an attack on his home on 11 February 2008. Australians are advised to exercise extreme caution at this time and avoid unnecessary local travel. You should also monitor local information sources for details of possible new safety or security risks.
There is a possibility that Australians and Australian interests may be specifically targeted. Violence could occur anywhere at any time in East Timor. You should take particular care to avoid demonstrations, street rallies and public gatherings as they may turn violent and you could get caught up in attacks directed at others.
There may be increased tensions due to changes to food distribution and negotiations between the government and petitioners (a group of former soldiers) in Dili during February 2008.
You should check the security situation with the United Nations Police (UNPOL) by telephone on 112 or (670) 723 0365.
In Dili, there have been violent disturbances in several areas since May 2006. Violence could erupt without notice. Known trouble spots include Nicolau Lobato Airport and its surrounds, Bebonuk including the Comoro River, Bairo Pite, Tasitolu, Aitarak Laran, the Comoro Market area and internally displaced people’s (IDP) camps, including near the Dili port.
Explosive devices have recently been detonated in Dili, including at the International Stablisation Force (ISF) base know as Camp Phoenix pm 7 February 2008, in Aitarak Laran on 6 February 2008 and outside the Australian Defence Co-operation House, adjacent to the Australian Embassy on 4 October 2007. No-one was injured in any of these explosions.
Violent disturbances have also occurred outside the city of Dili. Australians should check with United Nations Police (UNPOL – see contact details under Local Travel) before travelling to the districts and maintain extreme vigilance and caution.
Demonstrations and protests can be a catalyst for civil disorder. You should take particular care to avoid demonstrations, street rallies and public gatherings as they may turn violent and you could get caught up in attacks directed at others. From time to time, protesters have expressed anti-Australian sentiments and threats have been directed towards Australians and Australian interests.
Demonstrations can occur at or near symbols and institutions of the Government of East Timor, including the Palacio do Governo (government buildings), the court, the Prosecutor General’s office, the Presidential Palace, the National Parliament and houses belonging to prominent politicians. Banging of poles, shops shutting quickly and the sudden disappearance of street vendors can be indications that trouble is imminent.
The risk of demonstrations, protests and civil unrest may increase in the lead-up to and on days of national, political or historic significance.
At present, law and order is maintained by UNPOL working with the local police. The UN police are supported by a joint taskforce of Australian and New Zealand forced invited by the East Timorese Government after violence resulting in deaths and injuries in late April 2006.
If you decide to travel to East Timor, you should maintain a high level of personal security awareness and avoid minor disputes or other incidents that may occur as they could escalate.
Staff at the Australian Embassy have been advised to avoid travel to known trouble spots (listed above) and take additional practical security measures, particularly if travelling at night.
Australians who decide to remain in East Timor should ensure that they have personal security measures in place. You should seek accommodation with good security.
CrimeThere have been continuing incidents of gang-related violence, robbery, arson and vandalism in Dili. Australians and other foreigners have been caught up in incidents of armed robbery and assault both in Dili and on nearby beaches. Some gangs in Dili have attacked cars with potentially lethal stones and darts fired from slingshots, particularly during the early evening and at night. You should avoid armed irregular groups, including martial arts groups, both in the districts and in Dili.
Assaults, theft and armed robbery have been directed at foreigners in East Timor, particularly individuals travelling alone or at night. ‘Smash and grab’ style theft of property from vehicles does occur. Harassment and violence against women, including expatriate women, has been reported. You should exercise caution if using taxis.
Local TravelIf you decide to stay in East Timor, you should exercise extreme caution, particularly when travelling at night. Australians are advised to check the security situation and road conditions with UNPOL before undertaking travel.
The United Nations police (UNPOL) emergency and security information numbers can be called 24 hours a day on 112 or (670) 723 0365. You can get more information from the Security Information Co-ordination Centre within the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor Leste (UNMIT). The centre can be contacted 24 hours a day on (670) 331 2210, extension 5454 or (670) 723 0635.
Driving conditions are frequently hazardous due to poor road quality, poor signage and a lack of street lighting. Make-shift barricades are sometimes used as unauthorised road blocks and may appear anywhere in East Timor. A bridge located one kilometre west of Ermera on the Gleno-Ermera Road has been assessed by Australian Defence Force engineers as unsafe to carry traffic.
Staff at the Australian Embassy have been advised to avoid travel to known trouble spots and take additional practical security measures, particularly if travelling at night.
Border regions: Concerns remain about criminal activity and general instability in the border regions.
All motor vehicles are required to be registered with the Motor Vehicle Office. Third party motor vehicle insurance is not available. Visitors staying more that three months must obtain a local driver’s licence from the motor vehicle office as soon as possible after arrival.
International telephone calls are possible into and out of Dili where local lines are operational. Mobile telephone coverage is increasingly available outside of Dili but in quite a few areas communications are still only possible by satellite phone. There are a number of internet cafes in Dili but internet access is limited outside Dili.
For advice on travel to Indonesia (including West Timor), travellers should consult our Indonesia travel advice.
Piracy occurs in the coastal areas of East Timor. See our travel advice on shipping and ports for more information. The International Maritime Bureau issues weekly piracy reports on its web site.
Airline SafetyPassengers on international flights to and from Australia are only allowed to carry a small amount of liquids (including aerosols and gels) in their carry-on baggage. You can find out more information at the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government website. Similar restrictions apply to flights in an increasing number of countries. Contact your airline for further information.
If you have concerns about the safety standards of a particular airline or aircraft, we recommend you research the airline or aircraft through organisations such as Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government has published fact sheets on security for air travellers. When staff at Australia’s overseas missions are advised not to use particular airlines due to safety concerns, this will be included in the travel advisory.
The European Union (EU) has published a list of airlines that are subject to operating bans or restrictions within the EU. The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) through its foreign assessment program focuses on a country’s ability, not the individual airline, to adhere to international standards and recommended practices for aircraft operations and maintenance established by ICAO.
Natural Disasters, Severe Weather and ClimateEast Timor is in an active seismic zone and is subject to earthquakes.
All oceanic regions of the world can experience tsunamis, but there is a more frequent occurrence of large, destructive tsunamis in the Indian and Pacific Oceans because of the many large earthquakes along major tectonic plate boundaries and ocean trenches. See the Tsunami Awareness brochure.
Tropical storms and cyclones are unusual in East Timor, but they may occur during the wet season, November to April. You should monitor the information available through the Australian Bureau of Meteorology and plan accordingly. Further information can also be obtained from the Asia-Pacific Centre for Emergency and Disaster Information the World Meteorological Organisation Severe Weather Information Centre or the Humanitarian Early Warning Service.
If a natural disaster occurs, follow the advice of the local authorities.
Wildlife WatchingAustralians are advised to maintain a safe and legal distance when observing wildlife, including marine animals and birds. You should only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators and closely follow park regulations and wardens’ advice.
Money and ValuablesBefore you go, organise a variety of ways to access your money overseas, such as credit cards, travellers’ cheques, cash, debit cards or cash cards. Check with your bank whether your ATM card will work overseas. Relatively few establishments (hotels, shops and restaurants) in East Timor will accept credit cards.
The official currency of East Timor is the US dollar, which is the only currency that can be accepted as legal tender.
Three commercial banks operate in Dili: the ANZ Banking Group, Bank Mandiri and the Banco Nacional Ultramarino. All offer telegraphic transfer facilities. The ANZ also operates three ATMs which dispense US dollars using credit cards or debit cards which are Cirrus/Maestro linked. The ATMs are subject to occasional down times. When they are off line, cash can be obtained from the ANZ bank, but only out of a local account or from Visa or Mastercard credit cards. Western Union also provides a money transfer service.
Make two photocopies of valuables such as your passport, tickets, visas and travellers’ cheques. Keep one copy with you in a separate place to the original and leave another copy with someone at home.
While travelling, don’t carry too much cash and remember that expensive watches, jewellery and cameras may be tempting targets for thieves.
As a sensible precaution against luggage tampering, including theft, lock your luggage. Information on luggage safety is available from Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority.
Your passport is a valuable document that is attractive to criminals who may try to use your identity to commit crimes. It should always be kept in a safe place. You are required by Australian law to report a lost or stolen passport. If your passport is lost or stolen overseas, report it online or contact the nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate as soon as possible.
You are required to pay an additional fee to have a lost or stolen passport replaced. In some cases, the Government may also restrict the length of validity or type of replacement passports.
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For ParentsIf you are planning on placing your children in schools or child care facilities overseas, we encourage you to research the standards of security, care and staff training within those establishments. You should exercise the same precautions you would take before placing children into schools or child care facilities in Australia.
Ideas on how to select child care providers are available from the smartraveller Children’s Issues page, Child Wise and the National Childcare Accreditation Council.
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Local LawsWhen you are in East Timor, be aware that local laws and penalties, including ones that appear harsh by Australian standards, do apply to you. If you are arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you but we can’t get you out of trouble or out of jail.
Information on what Australian consular officers can and cannot do to help Australians in trouble overseas is available from the Consular Services Charter.
There are severe penalties for drug offences in East Timor.
Foreigners who interfere in local political processes may be subject to fines, detention and deportation.
Some Australian criminal laws, such as those relating to money laundering, bribery of foreign public officials, terrorism and child sex tourism, apply to Australians overseas. Australians who commit these offences while overseas may be prosecuted in Australia.
Australian authorities are committed to combating sexual exploitation of children by Australians overseas. Australians may be prosecuted at home under Australian child sex tourism laws. These laws provide severe penalties of up to 17 years imprisonment for Australians who engage in sexual activity with children under 16 while outside of Australia.
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Local CustomsThere are conservative standards of behaviour and dress in East Timor. You should take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.
Religious days are closely observed. Loud noise and frivolous behaviour are frowned on during these times.
Revealing clothing should not be worn in public places, including churches and markets.
Public displays of affection are not socially acceptable.
Information for Dual NationalsEast Timor does not recognise dual nationality. This may limit the ability of the Australian Government to provide consular assistance to Australian/East Timorese dual nationals who are arrested or detained.
Our Travel Information for Dual Nationals brochure provides further information for dual nationals.
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Entry and Exit RequirementsVisa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of East Timor for the most up-to-date information.
You do not need to obtain a visa prior to arriving in East Timor. An entry visa (of up to 30 days duration) will be issued to valid passport holders on arrival based on the purpose and period of stay stated by the applicant at the time of entry and provided entry into East Timor is regarded by local authorities as being for a legitimate purpose. There is a charge of US$30 on arrival at Nicolau Lobato International Airport for an entry visa. There are no money exchange facilities at the airport. A departure tax of US$10 also applies to departing travellers.
If travellers can demonstrate that they have a valid reason for extending their stay beyond 30 days in East Timor, an application to extend a visa may be submitted to the Migration Department, Ministry of Interior, located at Vila Verde. People applying for a work visa in East Timor are required to provide proof of their place of employment upon arrival. Foreign businesspeople can apply for a resident visa if they can provide proof of the registration of their business.
It is illegal to import currencies other than US Dollars into East Timor, above certain limits, without a permit issued by the Banking and Payments Authority (BPA). It is not permissible, for example, to import more than the equivalent of US$2,000 in Australian dollars during each calendar month without approval from the BPA. For queries regarding importation of currency the BPA can be contacted on (670) 331 3712; 331 3714; 331 7151 and 331 3718 or by e-mail to info@bancocentral.tl.
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Health IssuesWe strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance that will cover any overseas medical costs, before you depart. Confirm that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away and check what circumstances and activities are not included in your policy. Remember, regardless of how healthy and fit you are, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.
Your doctor or travel clinic is the best source of information about immunisations (including booster doses of childhood vaccinations) and disease outbreaks overseas. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides information for travellers and our ‘Travelling Well’ brochure also provides useful tips for staying healthy and travelling with medicines while overseas.
Medical facilities are limited and evacuation may be required in cases of serious illness or accident. Generally, expatriates attend Dili National Hospital for treatment. Dental facilities are extremely limited. A limited supply of basic medicines is available.
Mosquito-borne diseases: Malaria is prevalent in all areas of East Timor. Chloroquine-resistant strains are reported in some locations. Other insect-borne diseases such as filariasis and dengue fever are also prevalent with more serious outbreaks occurring from time to time. Japanese encephalitis is occasionally reported. We encourage you to consider taking prophylaxis against malaria and taking measures to avoid mosquito bites, including using an insect repellent at all times.
Water-borne, food-borne and other infectious diseases (such as tuberculosis, hepatitis and rabies) are prevalent. We encourage you to consult your doctor about which vaccinations, including childhood booster shots, you may need before travelling. We advise you to boil all drinking water or drink bottled water, avoid ice cubes and raw and undercooked food. Seek medical advice if you have a fever or are suffering diarrhoea.
Avian influenza. The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) has confirmed cases of avian influenza in birds in a number of countries throughout the world. For a list of these countries, visit the OIE website. For information on our advice to Australians on how to reduce the risk of infection and on Australian Government precautions see our travel bulletin on avian influenza.
The World Health Organization has confirmed deaths from avian influenza and outbreaks of avian influenza amongst birds in the region. The Department of Health advises Australians who reside in East Timor for an extended period to consider, as a precautionary measure, having access to influenza antiviral medicine for treatment. Long term residents are at a greater risk of exposure to avian influenza over time. You should seek medical advice before taking antiviral medicines. Australians intending to travel to East Timor for shorter periods are at much lower risk of infection but should discuss the risk of avian influenza with their doctor as part of their routine pre-travel health checks.
If the avian influenza virus mutates to a form where efficient human-to-human transmission occurs, it may spread quickly and local authorities could move quickly to impose restrictions on travel. Australian travellers and long-term residents in East Timor should be prepared to take personal responsibility for their own safety and well-being, including deciding when to leave an affected area and ensuring they have appropriate contingency plans in place. Australians in East Timor should monitor the travel advice and bulletin for updated information and advice, and ensure that their travel documents, including passports and visas for any non-Australian family members, are up to date in case they need to depart at short notice.
The Australian Government has decided as a precautionary measure to hold a limited supply of the antiviral medicine oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and protective face masks at most of its overseas missions. The antivirals would primarily be used to protect emergency staff providing consular and other essential services in the event of a widespread outbreak of avian influenza amongst humans. Australian missions will not be in a position to provide influenza antiviral medicines to Australians in affected areas. It is the responsibility of individual Australians to secure their own supply of such medicines (such as Tamiflu or Relenza), if required.
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Where to Get HelpIn East Timor, Australians and Canadians can obtain consular assistance from the:
Australian Embassy
Avenida dos Mártires da Pátria
Dili, East Timor
Telephone: (670) 332 2111
Facsimile: (670) 332 2247
Website: http://www.easttimor.embassy.gov.au/
E-mail: austemb.dili@dfat.gov.auIf you are travelling to East Timor, whatever the reason and however long you’ll be there, we encourage you to register with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. You can register on-line or in person at any Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate. The information you provide will help us to contact you in an emergency – whether it is a natural disaster, civil disturbance or a family issue.
In a consular emergency if you are unable to contact the Embassy you can contact the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or 1300 555 135 within Australia.
In Australia, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Canberra may be contacted on (02) 6261 3305.
This Advice was issued on Monday, 11 February 2008, 12:37:58, EST.My research have taken a new direction.
Since i found some really good and daily updated sources regarding the sec. situation.What I’m looking for now is information about:
medical resorces
The state of the infrastructure
Prices on day to day goods
expat org´s
sec. co. on the groundHope someone can point me in the right direction
Dave, thank’s for your posts and check your inbox
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