Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise increased caution in Timor-Leste due to crime and civil unrest. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for each entry stamp/visa that will be required. A visa is required. US citizens will need to get in touch with the country’s embassy or nearest consulate to obtain a visa prior to visiting the country.
US Embassy/Consulate
+(670) 332-4684; EMER: +(670) 7723-1328; US Embassy Dili, Av. de Portugal, Praia dos Coqueiros, Dili, Timor-Leste; ConsDili@state.gov; https://tl.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html
Telephone Code
670
Local Emergency Phone
Ambulance and Fire: 115; Police: 112; 331 2383
Vaccinations
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Timor-Leste: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, COVID-19, and influenza.
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Tropical; hot, humid; distinct rainy and dry seasons
Currency (Code)
US Dollar (USD)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
220 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): E, G, I
Major Languages
Tetun Prasa, Mambai, Makasai, Tetun Terik, Baikenu, Kemak, Bunak, Tokodede, Fataluku: note: there are about 32 indigenous languages
Major Religions
Roman Catholic 97.6%, Protestant/Evangelical 2%, Muslim 0.2%
Time Difference
UTC+9 (14 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Left
Tourist Destinations
Dili (includes Cristo Rei, Resistance Museum, Tais Market); Jesus Backside Beach; Atauro Island; Lake Ira Lalaro; Jaco Island; Mount Ramelau; Marobo Hot Springs
Major Sports
Soccer, boxing
Cultural Practices
Hospitality is important to the Timorese. If you’re offered food or drink when you meet somebody, it’s important to at least taste it but always wait for your host to take the first sip or bite.
Tipping Guidelines
Service charges are not added to bills automatically. Leave a 10% tip if the service warrants it. Tipping is not seen as a necessity, but a reward for good service.
Souvenirs
Tais woven fabric, Batik and embroidered fabrics, shell and pearl jewelry, handmade bags, woodcarvings, silverwork
Traditional Cuisine
Ikan pepes — fish is coated in a paste made with ingredients including turmeric, macadamia nuts, tomatoes, shrimp paste, palm sugar, lemon basil, tamarind, lemongrass, and chili peppers and then wrapped in banana leaves; the parcels are steamed or grilled and served with lime or lemon wedges on the side
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Thursday, October 05, 2023
