Niger travel advice
Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)
Last updated: ET
On this page
- Risk level
- Safety and security
- Entry and exit requirements
- Health
- Laws and culture
- Natural disasters and climate
- Need help?
Risk level
Niger - AVOID ALL TRAVEL
Avoid all travel to Niger, with the exception of the capital, Niamey, due to the risks of terrorism and kidnapping.
Niamey - Avoid non-essential travel
Avoid non-essential travel to Niamey, due to crime and the risk of kidnapping.
Safety and security
Niamey
The security situation has improved in Niamey. Crime and the risk of kidnapping, however, remain a threat.
- After dark, be extremely vigilant and limit or avoid your movements
- Travel between the airport and Niamey only in a convoy of at least two vehicles
Areas bordering Nigeria
State of emergency
A state of emergency is in effect in Diffa region and in the municipality of Tillabéri. A curfew is also in effect in Diffa region from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m.
Follow the instructions of local authorities, including curfew orders.
Borno and Yobe, Nigeria
A state of emergency is in effect in the Nigerian states of Borno and Yobe, which border southeast Niger. Instability in these states could spillover into Niger.
Crime
Petty crime
Crime occurs throughout the country, including in the capital. Common crimes include muggings, theft and armed assaults. In Niamey, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching also occur.
Robberies
Home invasions and car jackings occur periodically. Many thieves specifically target foreign nationals.
Bandits operate freely in certain isolated regions of the country. There is a heightened risk of armed robberies in areas north of the Tahoua–Zinder–Diffa axis.
- Avoid walking after dark
- Don’t display any sign of wealth or affluence in public
- Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
- Safely store photocopies of passports, visas and travel documents in case of loss or seizure
Road safety
Except for main routes, road conditions are poor throughout Niger.
Road hazards include aggressive drivers, bicycles, mopeds, pedestrians, roaming farm animals, slow-moving carts and broken-down vehicles.
In case of an accident, go to the nearest police station to file a report.
Emergency roadside or medical assistance is not available.
Travelling outside of Niamey
Don’t travel after dark. Nighttime attacks on tourists have occurred in most of the country, particularly on the Agadez–Arlit, Agadez–Tahoua and Tillabéry–Niamey roads and within the city of Zinder. In particular, avoid off-road driving in the northern region of Agadez due to residual landmines.
If you must travel outside of Niamey despite the advisory:
- do so only during daylight hours
- travel in a convoy of several vehicles in excellent mechanical condition
- be accompanied by an experienced driver at all times
- don’t leave the main roads
- bring sufficient supplies of food and water, and a medical kit
- lock car doors and keep windows shut at all times
- carry a satellite phone, especially when travelling in remote areas
Demonstrations
Demonstrations take place frequently. 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
Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Fraud
Fraud and scams are commonplace. They may present as romance and friendship, business ventures, loan requests or employment opportunities. They can pose serious financial risk to targeted victims. Proceed with great caution when considering such proposals.
Kidnapping
There’s a high threat of kidnapping from terrorist groups throughout Niger. This includes the capital, Niamey.
Terrorist groups and bandits have kidnapped foreign nationals.
- Don’t travel to isolated areas, particularly to the regions around Agadez, Arlit, Tahoua and Tillabéry and in Zinder
- Avoid the regions bordering Mali and Burkina Faso
- Use varied and unpredictable routes and schedules when moving from one place to another
- Limit your movements
- Avoid travelling after dark
- Remain extremely vigilant at all times
Terrorism
There’s a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time. Citizens of countries that support the Niger government or regional interventions against terrorism are at particular risk.
Targets could include:
- government buildings, including schools
- places of worship
- airports and other transportation hubs and networks
- public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.
Public transportation
Avoid using public transportation, including transportation organized by hotels.
Most taxis are in poor condition and don’t meet basic safety standards.
You should consider hiring a driver, for safety and security reasons.
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
Entry and exit requirements
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 Niger authorities. 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 Niger.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Passport with “X” gender identifier
While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
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 foreign representative for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Tourist visa: required
Business visa: required
Student visa: required
You must obtain a visa prior you travel to Niger.
Children and travel
Learn about travel with children.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Health
Relevant Travel Health Notices
- Global Measles Notice - 8 September, 2022
- Polio: Advice for travellers - 15 November, 2022
- COVID-19 and International Travel - 1 October, 2022
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.
Pre-travel vaccines and medications
You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines 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.
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 a risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of yellow fever vaccination for travellers from all countries.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is recommended depending on your itinerary.
- Contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
- Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites.
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.
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).
Polio - Proof of vaccination required
Polio is present in this country. Polio can be prevented by vaccination, which is part of the routine vaccines for children in Canada.
Recommendation:
- Be sure that your vaccination against polio is up to date.
- One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended for adults.
Proof of vaccination:
If you are staying more than 4 weeks in this country, you may need to show proof of polio vaccination when you leave the country.
Make sure that the polio vaccination is documented on the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis. This is the only document accepted as proof of vaccination. In Canada, they are provided at Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres.
Carry the certificate as proof of vaccination.
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.
Meningococcal disease
This country is in the African Meningitis Belt, an area where there are many cases of meningococcal disease. Meningococcal disease is a serious and sometimes fatal infection. Travellers who may be at high risk should consider getting vaccinated. High-risk travellers include those living or working with the local population (e.g., health care workers) or those travelling to crowded areas or taking part in large gatherings.
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.
Malaria
- There is a risk of malaria throughout the year in the whole 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.
- See a health care provider or visit a travel health clinic, preferably six weeks before you travel to discuss the benefits of taking antimalarial medication and to determine which one to take.
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.
COVID-19
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.
For destination entry and exit requirements, including for COVID-19 vaccination requirements, please check the Entry/exit requirements section.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.
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 West Africa, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A, schistosomiasis and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in West Africa. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Cholera
Risk
Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.
To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions.
Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:
- visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
- visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring
Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.
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 of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Schistosomiasis
Schistosomiasis can be spread to humans through freshwater sources contaminated by blood flukes (tiny worms). The eggs of the worms can cause stomach illnesses like diarrhea and cramps or urinary problems. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Avoid swimming in freshwater sources (lakes, rivers, ponds). There is no vaccine available for schistosomiasis.
Insects and Illness
In some areas in West Africa, certain insects carry and spread diseases like African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), chikungunya, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, dengue fever, leishmaniasis, lymphatic filariasis, malaria, onchocerciasis, Rift Valley fever, West Nile virus, yellow fever and Zika virus.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Chikungunya
There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The risk may vary between regions of a 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, risk of dengue is sporadic. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
- Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
- The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
- 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.
Rift Valley fever
Rift Valley fever is a viral disease that can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can be fatal. It is spread to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, from the bite of an infected mosquito, or eating or drinking unpasteurized dairy. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from insect bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock, and unpasteurized dairy. There is no vaccine available for Rift Valley fever.
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Certain infections found in some areas in West Africa, like avian influenza, ebola, and rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
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.
HIV
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.
Medical services and facilities
Medical facilities are limited in Niamey and inadequate outside the capital. Emergency and ambulance services are very limited. In the event of a serious illness or accident, you’ll need medical evacuation.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Laws and 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.
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Niger.
If local authorities consider you a citizen of Niger, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.
General information for travellers with dual citizenship
International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Niger.
If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Niger by an abducting parent:
- act as quickly as you can
- consult a lawyer in Canada and in Niger to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
- report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.
If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.
Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.
Useful links
- International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
- Travelling with children
- Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
- Emergency Watch and Response Centre
Death penalty
The death penalty applies to serious crimes such as murder.
Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines and lengthy jail sentences.
Alcohol
Outside of the month-long observance of Ramadan, Niger’s laws and customs tolerate alcohol consumption.
Useful links
Photography
It’s illegal to photograph military zones, military installations, diplomatic premises, radio and television stations, airports, and the presidential palace and Kennedy Bridge in Niamey.
Don’t photograph political or student demonstrations, or military personnel.
If you’re unsure, seek permission from local authorities before taking any photograph.
Always seek permission before photographing a local.
Driving
You must carry an international driving permit.
More about the International Driving Permit
Driving rules
Drivers must not turn on their headlights during daylight hours.
You must pull over for:
- official motorcades or military convoys with headlights on
- public emergency vehicles with sirens on
- funeral processions
Accidents
If you’re involved in a serious accident, don’t move your vehicle before the police arrive.
Working in Niger
Employees and volunteers with non-governmental organizations must register with the Government of Niger and inform the authorities of their plans before starting any work. Failure to fulfil these requirements can result in detention and/or expulsion from Niger.
Dress and behaviour
Niger’s customs, laws and regulations adhere closely to Islamic practices and beliefs. To avoid offending local sensitivities:
- dress conservatively
- cover your arms and legs in public
- behave discreetly
- respect religious and social traditions
In 2023, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 22.
In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:
- drinking
- eating
- smoking
2SLGBTQI+ travellers
Although the laws of Niger do not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex, homosexuality is not socially tolerated. Members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community could face arrest under other charges, such as committing “unnatural acts.”
2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Niger.
Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
Money
The currency in Niger is the African Financial Community franc (CFA).
There are no ATMs in Niger.
Few businesses, including major hotels and restaurants, accept credit cards.
Only change money at a reputable exchange bureau. Foreign currency exchange over 1 million CFA requires authorization from the Ministry of Finance. Forms are available from all major banks.
Natural disasters and climate
There are three seasons in Niger:
- the cool dry season, from November to February
- the hot dry season, from March to June
- the rainy season, from June to October
During the rainy season, heavy rains can cause floods and landslides. Most of Niger’s secondary roads may be impassable.
If you decide to travel to Niger during the rainy season:
- stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
- carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
- follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
Need help?
Local services
Emergency services
Emergency services exist but may be unreliable. In case of emergency dial:
- police: 17
- medical assistance: 15
- firefighters: 18
Consular assistance
Niamey - Consulate of Canada
Bamako - Embassy of Canada
Niger
For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Bamako, Mali and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
Disclaimer
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.
Risk Levels
Take normal security precautions
Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.
Exercise a high degree of caution
There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.
IMPORTANT:The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.
Avoid non-essential travel
Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.
Avoid all travel
You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.