brunei travel vaccines

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Travel Vaccines and Advice for Brunei

Brunei is known as the Abode of Peace and is located in Southeast Asia. It is also near the state of Sarawak, Malaysia. This sovereign state is on the island of Borneo and an the ideal spot for tourists to travel.

People will discover everything Brunei has to offer from great golf courses to malls, exquisite hotels, relaxing spas, theme parks, and recreation centers. Brunei has a variety of cuisine to try from local to international flavours that will satisfy your taste buds.

Brunei prides itself as an ecotourism spot for tourists who love nature as well as adventure. Their national parks are great places to get in touch with nature and discover the many species of animals that live in the jungle.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, love adventure, need to relax, or are into culture, Brunei is where you want to visit. They’re waiting for you to come into their world.

Do I Need Vaccines for Brunei?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Brunei. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Brunei: COVID-19 , hepatitis A , hepatitis B , typhoid , yellow fever , Japanese encephalitis , rabies and tetanus .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated.
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Recommended for travellers to most regions.
• Tetanus – Wounds or Breaks in Skin – Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated.
• Typhoid – Food & Water – Recommended for travellers to most regions.
• Yellow Fever – Mosquito – Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
• Japanese Encephalitis – Mosquito – Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. Recommended for extended travel, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. In many areas throughout country, risk is year-round.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.

See the tables below for more information:

There is a risk for Japanese encephalitis in Brunei, depending your itinerary. Many factors can play a role including where you will be staying and the time of year you will be travelling. Consult with a travel health specialist to learn more.

Rabies is another risk in Brunei. the NaTHNaC recommends the vaccine if you plan to take part in outdoor activities or are around animals.

Traveller’s diarrhoea can be a concern for those travelling to Brunei. Avoid drinking tap water and eat food that is clean. Consider bring a traveller’s diarrhoea kit with you as well.

To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page . Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either ring or start booking online now .

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Brunei?

Citizens of the UK may enter Brunei for up to 90 days without a visa. Passports must have at least six months validity. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if you are travelling from a region where yellow fever is present.

Sources: Embassy of Brunei and GOV.UK

What is the Climate Like in Brunei?

Brunei has a tropical rainforest climate with temperatures usually in the mid-20’s. January, February, and December are the best months for travellers to visit because of the good weather and temperature.

There are rainy seasons all year, but July is the warmest month and January is the coolest month to travel to these places in Brunei. November is not the best time to travel because it is the wettest month whilst March is the driest month.

How Safe is Brunei?

Travellers going to Brunei need to be aware of their surroundings at all times. Don’t draw attention too much, and report any activity that doesn’t seem normal.

Crimes are usually non-violent and can include burglaries and breaking into vehicles. Victims of crime and domestic violence can contact the Embassy of the United Kingdom for help.

Women are, for the most part, safe to travel to Brunei. If they are alone, it is best to walk with confidence and dress in clothes that don’t reveal their bodies. The Brunei people are friendly, but women may receive long stares.

Travellers should be on the lookout for scams in Brunei. They should not let people sell them lottery tickets and take them to a casino because it is illegal to gamble. Travellers also need to be aware of shops and marketplaces that sell forged medicine.

The Royal Palace in Brunei

Travellers have the experience of visiting the Royal Palace on the second, third, and fourth day of Hari Raya Aidilfitri. These days are when the palace is open to travellers and citizens alike. People have the chance to meet the Sultan of Brunei and the royal family members. Visitors also have the opportunity to see a piece of history as they enter the palace.

Guests are given a celebratory meal, greeted by the sultan and his wife, and given a gift. Male guests can greet the sultan whilst women guests can greet his wife with a handshake. The sultan and queen greet at least 40,000 people a day during the Muslim festival of Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

A peculiar opportunity like this allows travellers to immerse themselves in the culture of Brunei.

What Should I Take To Brunei?

Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Brunei:

• Currency – You can bring US, Euro, GBP, or AU money and exchange it for Brunei money at ATMs. Singapore money is the same value as Brunei money. It’s a good thing to keep in mind that your bank may receive fees because you are withdrawing money overseas. A better option to avoid fees is to go to a money changer instead.
• Clothing – travellers should bring modest clothing when travelling to Brunei. Shorts, miniskirts, and tank tops should be left behind. You can bring slip on shoes or sandals. It’s respectful to the culture that you embrace their laws, customs, and religion.
• Insect Repellent – You can protect yourself from ticks and mosquitoes by bringing insect repellent. the NaTHNaC advises that you use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET to protect you for several hours.
• Packing for Health – Your health is important, especially when you’re travelling to another part of the world. Prescription medicines, over the counter medicines, and a first aid kit are some of the essentials you need to stay healthy and avoid or treat injuries whilst in Brunei. If you’re planning to be outdoors a lot of the time, a SPF 15 sun cream is a must on your trip. It will protect you from UV radiation.

Embassy of the United Kingdom in Brunei

If you are in Brunei and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.

British High Commission Bandar Seri Begawan 2.01, 2nd Floor, Block D, Kompleks Bangunan Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Jalan Pretty Bandar Seri Begawan PO Box 2197 Brunei Telephone: (+673) (2) 222231 Emergency Phone: (+673) (2) 222231 Fax: (+673) (2) 234315 Email: [email protected]

Ready to start your next journey? Ring us up at or book online now !

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Brunei? Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Brunei? What is the Climate Like in Brunei? How Safe is Brunei? The Royal Palace in Brunei What Should I Take To Brunei? Embassy of the United Kingdom in Brunei

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Travel advisory, travel advisory during covid-19.

Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) makes its best effort to update the information reflected in all  Travel Advisory pages regularly, however entry or exit requirements and other travel requirements may change at very short notice. We advise our guests to check the latest advisory issued by relevant governments or authorities and be well-informed on all the travel requirements before their trip. Visit here to check the visa requirement and it is encouraged for you to check with your local embassy to confirm your visa and immigration requirements.

Please note it is our guests’ responsibility to ensure they meet the travel criteria and have all appropriate approvals and documents for travel.  Without this RB is not permitted to allow guests to travel in-line with international air transport regulations. RB shall not be held responsible for any guests being denied boarding for not meeting the travel requirements.

Brunei Darussalam

Republic of singapore, the philippines, united kingdom, people's republic of china, saudi arabia, indian subcontinent, hong kong sar, china, united arab emirates, south korea.

This section gives a summary applicable to foreign nationals entering or exiting Brunei Darussalam. Full entry/exit requirements can be found on the PMO Press Releases and announcements .  Please note it is our guests’ responsibility to ensure they meet the travel criteria and have all appropriate approvals and documents for travel.  Without this RB is not permitted to allow guests to travel in-line with international air transport regulations. RB shall not be held responsible for any guests being denied boarding for not meeting the travel requirements.

Failure to comply to any of the requirements is an offense under the Infectious Diseases Act (Chapter 204) and if found guilty, will be liable to a fine for up to $10,000 or imprisonment for a period of up to 6 months or both.

Exiting Brunei on and after 15 September 2022

Destination country requirements.

• It is travellers’ responsibility to check and fulfill other requirements as required by the destination country to visit.   
• Should destination countries to visit require travellers to undergo RT-PCT test or ART before departure, travellers may undergo RT-PCR test at health center or private health clinic that provides services for RT-PCR test or ART at certified ART centres .
• Travellers are advised to check Visa requirement of the country to visit before exiting Brunei.  Travellers need to check with foreign embassies or refer destination country’s website for latest Visa requirement.

Travel Medical Insurance

Brunei Citizens and Permanent Residents travellers who are travelling for a short trip before 1 December 2022 , must obtain Travel Medical Insurance with COVID-19 coverage of a minimum coverage of BND 20,000 from Brunei-based or overseas insurer.   The insurance must be valid for the duration of their stay in the destination country.  

The following travellers are exempted from being required to obtain Travel Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage:  

• Brunei Citizens and Permanent Residents travelling overseas for employment, for studies, as eligible dependents or hold a long-term visa/immigration pass in the destination country.
• Permanent Residents who are travelling to their country of nationality.
• Civil servants who are travelling overseas for official travel sponsored by Government of Brunei Darussalam.

Starting 1 December 2022 , Brunei Citizens and Permanent Residents travellers are no longer required to obtain Travel Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage.  Travellers wishing to obtain such insurance for their own peace of mind are welcome to do so.

Form and application

• Brunei Citizens and Permanent Residents travellers are required to complete registration through the e-Register system at Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA)  website .  This is ease communication in the event that assistance is required during emergency or crisis.
• Citizens and Permanent Residents of Brunei exiting Brunei for education (Private Student) who will begin their studies overseas or returning to the country of studies must complete Ministry of Education’s Registration Form for private student .

Vaccination status

Starting 15 September 2022, COVID-19 vaccination is no longer be an entry or exit requirement for Brunei Darussalam.

Mask policy on RB Flights

As per the updated regulations by Brunei government, effective 15 September 2022, use of face mask onboard RB flights is no longer mandatory with the following exception:

• for guests travelling to a country/destination where face mask is required, and/or
• for guests exhibiting symptoms of an infection.

As Brunei travel requirements may change at short notice, please refer to the latest travel advisory issued by the Brunei government and  Prime Minister’s Office  before your departure. If the information differs from our travel advisory, it is recommended that you follow the official guidance from  Prime Minister’s Office,  as we may still be processing the latest regulatory changes.

Entering into Brunei on and after 15 September 2022

E-arrival card effective 9 february 2023.

Starting 9 February 2023, it is a mandatory for foreign nationals arriving Brunei Darussalam to register the electronic e-Arrival Card.  This is to replace the previous Form 19, the physical registration paper for arrival/departure.

• Mandatory to register at least 3 days before arriving and entering Brunei Darussalam. No fee will be charged for registration.
• Foreign nationals who travel to Brunei for the purpose of transit/stopover and not going through the immigration control post (LTAB)  are not required to register e-Arrival Card.
• Passport/Valid Individual Travel Document
• Information on residence in Brunei Darussalam
• Flight or Vehicle information used

Visa requirement for Foreign travellers

Foreign travellers are advised to check Visa requirements before entering Brunei Darussalam in accordance with regulations that are currently enforced.  Visa requirements can be referred from Ministry of Foreign Affairs website .

Foreign travellers who are on short-term visit into Brunei Darussalam before 1 December 2022 , must obtain Travel Medical Insurance with COVID-19 coverage of a minimum coverage of BND 20,000 from Brunei-based or overseas insurer.   The insurance must be valid for the duration of their stay in Brunei Darussalam.  

• Brunei Citizens and Permanent Residents returning to Brunei Darussalam.
• Foreign nationals entering Brunei Darussalam for the purpose of long-term visit such as employment, studying or as eligible dependent.

Starting 1 December 2022 , foreign travellers are no longer required to obtain Travel Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage.  Travellers wishing to obtain such insurance for their own peace of mind are welcome to do so.

With the above, non-fully vaccinated travellers are not required to undergo post-arrival COVID-19 tests.

Starting 15 September 2022, travellers are not required to complete Arrival Declaration Form (ADF) before travelling into Brunei Darussalam.

All guests arriving into Australia are reminded to comply with all other requirements set-forth by the Australian government and state/territories. Please check the  latest requirements  to confirm your eligibility before booking.

All guests arriving into Australia who do not meet these criteria will be subjected to Australia’s travel restrictions as well as state or territory quarantine requirements of the jurisdiction where they arrive into Australia.  If you do not meet these criteria and wish to travel to Australia, please  contact Royal Brunei Airlines  to make arrangements.

International guests arriving in New South Wales, Victoria or the Australian Capital Territory are not automatically permitted to transit to another state or territory. Guests are advised to check interstate travel requirements.

Masks are mandatory  for the duration of the flight and while in Australian airports, and should also be worn in airports in other countries.  

Travelling to Australia on or after 18 April 2022

For more information on the travel requirements to/from Australia, you may visit the following links.

• Australia’s Official COVID-19 Travel Requirements Homepage

From 6 July 2022, the followings are no longer needed:

• Travellers travelling to and departing Australia are no longer required to provide evidence of their vaccination status
• Unvaccinated visa holders will not require a travel exemption
• Travellers are no longer required to complete the Digital Passenger Declaration

Effective 00:01 AEDT on 5 January 2023, t ravellers entering Australia by air from China, including Hong Kong and Macau, either on a direct flight, or on a flight that has a stopover in another country before landing in Australia are subjected to a new requirement. It is travellers’ responsibility to check the latest requirement or here and be well-informed on the requirements before their trip.  

For travellers, including Australian citizens and permanent residents who are listed below, COVID-19 test is mandatory to be taken within 48 hours prior to departure Australia .  

• Travellers entering Australia from the People’s Republic of China and the Special Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macau.  
• Travellers boarding flights from China, including Hong Kong and Macau and ending in Australia.  This includes indirect flights transiting through a third country.    
• Travellers who are from China and intend to spend several days in Australia before travelling to another country.  
• Travellers who are transiting through China, including Hong Kong and Macau and spending several days prior to travelling to Australia.  
• In the case of flight has been re-scheduled or cancelled, travellers are required to present negative COVID-19 RAT, NAAT or PCR test result taken not more than 48 hours before the day of new departure time.  

With the above, travellers are required to provide evidence of a negative test result prior to boarding and upon arrival and may need to provide the evidence of negative result again upon arrival in Australia.  

Accepted test for COVID-19 are as follows:  

COVID-19 test is not required for:  

• Travellers who travel from China, including Hong Kong or Macau to another country and spend several days there prior to travelling to Australia.  
• Travellers who are transiting through China, including Hong Kong or Macau originating in other countries.  
• Travellers who are transiting in Australia and directly travelling to and onwards destination.  
• Airline crew.  
• Children under age of 12 years on the day of scheduled departure.  
• Travellers with evidence from medical practitioner of a COVID-19 infection in the last 30 days, and must present confirmation they are no longer infectious or symptomatic.  Travellers’ first of positive result must be at least days before the date of the medical certificate.  
• Travellers with evidence from medical practitioner in the last 30 days with medical condition that prevents them from undertaking a COVID-19 test.  
• Emergency medical evacuation flights and those who are accompanying people of these flights.  
• In the case of flight delay and travellers have met the pre-departure testing requirements, new RAT, PCR test or other NAAT is not required.    

All travellers entering Singapore on/after 1 April 2022 are subjected to Singapore’s new Vaccinated Travel Framework. Travel requirements via the Vaccinated Travel Framework is dependent on the traveller’s vaccination status.

Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore has provided detailed travel requirement checklist for the following traveller’s profile:

• Entering Singapore
• Transiting in Singapore
• Departing Singapore

Malaysia has reopened its borders to international travellers.  All travellers are to comply with the travel requirements by the Malaysian government.  We advise our guests to check the latest advisory issued by relevant governments or authorities and be well-informed on all the travel requirements before their trip.  Malaysia’s travel requirement can be checked from safetravel.gov.my .

Take note that requirements may change last minute and it is travellers’ responsibility to have all necessary approvals and/or documentation for travel.

In accordance with the Philippines Department of Transport, guests entering and departing from Manila (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) are required to wear a face mask onboard the aircraft and at the airport (face shields are optional). All passengers are no longer required to download and register an account in the TRAZE CONTACT TRACING mobile app prior to entering The Philippines.

In compliance with Philippines regulations, the Inter-Agency Task Force on the management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID), guests are required to follow the arrival and quarantine protocols for non-OFWs and returning Overseas Filipinos & Foreign Nationals when travelling to The Philippines. Guests are reminded that it is their responsibility to follow, meet all entry/exit guidelines of The Philippines.

Effective 1 May 2023, paper-based Arrival/Departure Cards will be discontinued by The Philippine Bureau of Immigration. All passengers are required to fill in the eTravel declaration before their arrival into Manila. It is recommended for travellers complete their registration within 72 hours/3 days prior departure at the country of origin to avoid inconvenience upon arrival.

Philippine additional travel requirement

Guests carrying foreign or Philippine currency or monetary instrument exceeding USD 10,000 or PHP 50,000 pesos are required to fill out the Customs Baggage Declaration Form and Currencies ( here ) Declaration Form. This form is then to be submitted by guests to Duty Customs Officer at the arrival area of the airport

More information on infomercial on cross-border transport of local and foreign currency and monetary instrument can be found here .

Philippine's Fully vaccinated criteria

Fully vaccinated against COVID-19 is considered:

• If travellers has received the second dose in a 2-dose of COVID-19 vaccines series OR
• If travellers has received a single dose of COVID-19 vaccine more than fourteen (14) days before the departure date of country of origin

Travel Requirement-For Vaccinated Travellers

• Fully vaccinated Filipinos and Foreign Nationals are no longer required to do pre-departure test.
• With primary vaccine are allowed to enter the Philippines provided that the last dose is received 14 days before date of departure.  Booster is no longer required.
• World Health Organization International Certificate of Vaccination and Prophylaxis;
• National or state manual/digital vaccination certificate of the country/foreign government;
• Other proof of vaccination.

Travel Requirement-For Unvaccinated Travellers, Partially Vaccinated

• Filipinos and Foreign Nationals travellers who are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated or those with vaccinations which cannot be verified are allowed to enter the Philippines provided that travellers take antigen test for COVID-19 24 hours before travel.
• Antigen test is available upon arrival for purchase, however, passenger is encouraged to take the COVID-19 test before travelling into the Philippines.  This is to avoid the inconvenience of queuing in order to be tested upon arrival and waiting for the result to be released.
• Filipinos and Foreign Nationals of age fifteen (15) years or older shall present a remotely supervised, or a laboratory-based rapid antigen negative test result administered and certified by a healthcare professional in a healthcare facility, laboratory, clinic, pharmacy, or other similar establishment taken within twenty-four (24) hours, prior to the date and time of departure from the country of origin/first port of embarkation in a continuous travel to the Philippines, excluding lay-overs; provided, that he/she has not left the airport premises or has not been admitted into another country during such lay-over.
• Filipinos and Foreign nationals of age fifteen (15) years or older who fail to present negative pre-departure testing with conditions set forth above, shall be required to undergo a laboratory-based rapid antigen negative test administered and certified by a healthcare professional in a healthcare facility, laboratory, clinic, pharmacy, or other similar establishment taken upon arrival at the airport.
• Accompanied minors of age below fifteen (15) years who are not vaccinated for any reason whatsoever shall follow the quarantine protocols of their parent/s or an accompanying adult/guardian traveling with them.
• Unaccompanied minors of age below 15 years who are not vaccinated for any reason whatsoever shall follow the protocols set forth in #3 and #4 above.

Additional requirements for Foreign Nationals

Foreign Nationals must:

• Hold passport with a validity of at least 6 months at the time of entry into the Philippines.
• Have a valid visa (if applicable) for those who are not entitled to a visa-free entry in the Philippines, as well those with immigrant and non-immigrant status.
• Foreign spouses and/or children of Filipino citizens who are travelling with them.
• Former Filipino citizens with Balikbayan privileges under Republic Act  No. 9174, including their spouse and/or children, who are travelling with them.

Isolation and Quarantine

In the event that travelers tested positive for COVID-19, they will be subjected to undergo further testing validation, mandatory facility quarantine and recovery as implemented by the Philippines Bureau of Quarantine and Department of Health (DOH).

As of 4am on 18 March 2022, all travellers, regardless of vaccination status, are not required to take any COVID-19 tests or fill in a passenger locator form when travelling to the United Kingdom from abroad.

We advise our guests to check the latest advisory issued by relevant governments or authorities and be well-informed on all the travel requirements before their trip. Please note it is our guests’ responsibility to ensure they meet the travel criteria and have all appropriate approvals and documents for travel. Without this, RB is not permitted to allow guests to travel in-line with international air transport regulations. RB shall not be responsible for any guests being denied boarding for not meeting the travel requirements.

Effective 04:00 UTC on 5 January 2023, travellers entering United Kingdom by air from China (not including Hong Kong and Macau), either on a direct flight , or on indirect flight . It is travellers’ responsibility to check the latest requirement  and be well-informed on the requirements before their trip.   

It is mandatory for travellers stated below to obtain pre-departure COVID-19 test and a  negative result from Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) or Lateral Flow Device (LFD)/RAPID Antigen Test (RAT) taken within 2 days of departure . Please note that pre-departure tests are not accepted if they are provided or administered by the UK National Health Service.

• Travellers arriving United Kingdom by air, either on direct or indirect flight from China (not including Hong Kong and Macau). Indirect flight is referred to booking either via single airline operator or with more than one airline operator as a single itinerary journey where travellers are ‘ticketed through’. Indirect flights are only in scope if the traveller transits airside through any connecting airports, i.e. without passing through immigration control. The requirement applies where travellers’ final destination is in England or where they are transiting through England.  
• Indirect flights via any third country or territory, Hong Kong or Macao are included.  
• Traveller’s flight departing mainland China is delayed and previous pre-departure test sample is taken more than 2 days of departure.  
• In the case of indirect flight, pre-departure must be taken within 2 days of departure of the first flight that departs mainland China. Delays to subsequent sectors does not require travellers to undertake new pre-departure test.  

As of 8 January 2023, some passengers will be invited to participate in a voluntary test upon arrival in order to monitor for potential new variants.  

Proof of negative result must be:  

• An original copy of certificate either paper or digital form.  
• In English, French or Spanish.  
• Containing name of the person from whom the sample was taken (Name should matches with traveller’s travel document).  
• Containing date of birth or age from whom the sample was taken (Date of birth should matches with traveller’s travel document).  
• Stating the result of the test.  
• Stating the date when the sample was collected or received by test provider (which must be within 2 days of departure).  
• Stating the name of test provider and their contact details.  
• Stating the name of test device or type of test used.  

This requirement is not mandatory for those mentioned below. Please refer here  for latest exemption.  

• Children of age 11 years or below.  
• Aircraft crew.  
• Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) inspectors.  
• Crown Civil servants on diplomatic duty or carrying out essential government work.  
• Defence workers.  
• Essential or emergency workers.  
• Travellers travelling to the UK to conduct official business.  
• Travellers who have travelled to the United Kingdom for the purpose of transporting material which is to be used for the provision of healthcare by a healthcare provider.  
• Travellers with medical condition or disability and unable to take COVID-19 test and must provide supporting evidence. Evidence can be obtained from medical practitioner in English or certified English translation should be provided by traveller.
• Travellers travelling for urgent medical treatment where it is not reasonably practicable to obtain negative COVID-19 test within 2 days before departure.  
• Travellers accompanying another traveller travelling for urgent medical treatment where it is not reasonably practicable to obtain negative COVID-19 test within 2 days before departure.  
• Extradited travellers.  

Effective 1 December 2020, All China-bound guests, regardless of nationalities, are required to  present a green HS code (Chinese nationals) or HDC code (Foreign nationals)  on their mobile devices or in print in order to board the flight. Guests are advised to upload copies of their  negative COVID-19 Nucleic Acid Test (NAT) result and a negative IgM anti-body test  from an authorized testing institution; within 2 days before boarding via Wechat (Chinese nationals) or website  https://hrhk.cs.mfa.gov.cn/H5  (Foreign nationals) and fill in the required information. The Chinese Embassy will issue a green HS code (Chinese nationals) or HDC code (Foreign nationals) as soon as it verifies the results. Guests who fail to present all required documents will be denied boarding.

Only travellers with Umrah Visa is entitled to carry Zamzam bottles.  Please note that Zamzam bottles will not accepted for travellers holding tourist visa.

All guests arriving Saudi Arabia must hold a passport and no other type of identification.  Online eVisa is only eligible for Brunei Citizenship passport holders and not Brunei ICI (International Certificate of Identity) passport holders.

Immune travellers must fill out the Registration Immunization Information Form before traveling to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to allow them to register their immunization data which will enable them to use TAWAKKALNA APP. This does not apply to Saudi Citizens and exempted categories.

For more information, you may contact the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA)’s Passenger Care Center with toll free number 8001168888 or enquire through social media (@GacaCare), e-mail ( [email protected] ), or the Authority’s website: ( gaca.gov.sa ).

Please  click here  for details of the temporary suspension on travelling to and from countries within the Indian subcontinent.

The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region announced in a press release on 28 December 2021 that in view of the latest global developments of the COVID-19 pandemic situation, Brunei Darussalam will be specified as Group A specified places from 00:00hrs on 31 December 2021 to tighten the boarding and quarantine requirements for relevant inbound travellers.

• Non-Hong Kong residents are not allowed to enter Hong Kong.
• If they have stayed in the same country in the previous 14 days
• Have been fully vaccinated and hold a recognised vaccination record
• Hold a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based nucleic acid test collected within 48 hours before departure
• They will have to undergo compulsory quarantine in a designated quarantine hotel for 7 nights or 14 nights upon returning to Hong Kong. Refer to the official Hong Kong Government website for full quarantine requirements.
• Details on the relevant boarding and compulsory quarantine requirements for respective specified places can be found here .

Brunei-issued vaccination booklet (yellow booklet) is not recognised as a valid proof of vaccination status. Using your BruHealth app, download a digital copy of your vaccination certificate to be used as a valid proof of vaccination status.

Travellers arriving into Indonesia are reminded to comply with the requirements set by the destination’s government and  may change last minute.  It is travellers’ responsibility to check the latest requirements and have all necessary approvals and/or documentation for travel.

Electronic Custom Declaration (e-CD) - Jakarta & Surabaya

Travellers arriving Jakarta are required to complete Electronic Custom Declaration (e-CD) three (3) days before arriving to Jakarta & Surabaya.

QR code will then be generated for travellers and to be shown custom officer.

Vaccination

• All travellers (fully vaccinated and not fully vaccinated) are allowed to enter Indonesia.
• Showing card or certificate as a proof of vaccination is no longer needed.

Mobile Application

Travellers are no longer required to download and use SatuSehat/Peduli Lindungi mobile application .

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport reminds passengers to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights. With longer waiting times and queues reported at the airport within the last month, RB advises our guests to immediately proceed to immigration and security check after check-in/baggage drop. We would also like to advise you to utilise online check-in for faster check-in process. Please be reminded that RB Check-in counter at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport opens 3 hours prior to scheduled departure and closes 45 mins before scheduled departure time.

Starting 9 January 2023, entry measures into Thailand are as below.  We advise our guests to check the latest advisory issued by relevant government or authorities and be well-informed on all travel requirements before their trip.

• Foreigners are longer required to show proof of COVID-19 insurance coverage.  However, purchasing travel insurance is highly recommended.
• Travel insurance is mandatory for travellers from and to India and China.  Insurance validity must be +7 days for the duration of stay in Thailand.
• Foreigners are no longer required to register Thailand pass or Certificate of Entry (COE) before departure.
• Mandatory Quarantine requirement has been removed.
• Proof of vaccination to Thai authorities before arriving are no longer needed.

All United Arab Emirates (UAE) residents, visitors and tourist can enter Dubai.  However, visitor and tourists have to meet the visa requirements (if needed) before travelling into Dubai.  Refer here for visa requirements to enter UAE.

It is travellers’ responsibility to check the  latest requirements  and have all necessary approvals and/or documentation for travel.

• Be fully vaccinated with a vaccine approved by the World Health Organisation (WHO) or the UAE .
• All travellers arriving into the UAE are no longer required to present a COVID‑19 vaccination certificate or perform PCR tests.
• Recovered COVID-19 traveller must present a valid medical certificate from the relevant authorities issued within one month before the date of arrival.  The certificate must contain a QR code.

The following people are exempt from presenting a COVID-19 test or a vaccination certificate at the departure airport:

• all UAE nationals returning to Dubai from any country
• non‑UAE nationals accompanying a first‑degree UAE national family member
• domestic workers accompanying a UAE national sponsor.

The following people are exempt from being tested for COVID-19:

• children below 12 years of age
• passengers with moderate to severe disabilities.

Moderate or severe disability includes neurological disorders and intellectual or developmental disabilities. For example: Acute spinal cord injury, Alzheimer’s disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Ataxia, Autism spectrum, Bell’s palsy, Brain tumours, Cerebral aneurysm, Cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, Epilepsy and seizures. All other passengers, including those who are visually impaired, have a hearing impairment or are physically challenged, must hold a negative COVID‑19 RT‑PCR test certificate as per the requirements.

Guest arriving into Korea are reminded to comply with the requirements set by the destination’s government and may change last minute.  It is guests’ responsibility to check the latest requirements  and have all necessary approvals and/or documentation for travel.

• Pre-departure COVID-19 test or PCR is no longer required upon arrival to South Korea.
• From 18th December 2023 to 31st December 2024, Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) will be temporarily exempted for guests coming from Brunei. For guests who still wants to apply K-ETA to receive benefits such as not having to submit an arrival card upon entry, guest may apply for K-ETA and pay for the fee.  Previously approved K-ETA will remain valid until its expiry date.

Japan has reopened its border to international travellers.  All travellers are to comply with the travel requirements by their government.  We advise our guests to check the latest advisory issued by relevant government or authorities and be well-informed on all travel requirements before their trip.

Vaccinated travellers

• Certificate must be issued government or public institution.
• Items in the certificate must be indicated in Japanese or English
• It must be clearly stated on the certificate that the applicant has received three (3) doses of any of the vaccines listed on the WHO’s Emergency Use List.
• Travellers are not required for pre-departure COVID-19 test.
• Travellers are encouraged to fill up the questionnaire from FAST TRACK
• To wear face mask indoors.
• To sanitize hand thoroughly and wash hand frequently.
• Avoid the three C’s (closed spaces, crowded places and close-contact settings).

Unvaccinated travellers

• Travellers who does not have a valid vaccination certificate must obtain a certificate of test for COVID-19 (confirming negative) within 72 hours of departure.  Without the certificate, travellers are not permitted to land in Japan.
• Children under the age of 18 years without a valid vaccination certificate but travelling with guardian with a valid vaccination certificate, will adhere to same protocol as valid vaccination certificates.

All travellers travelling into Taiwan are to comply with the travel requirements by their government.  We advise our guests to check the latest advisory issued by relevant government or authorities and be well-informed on all travel requirements before their trip.

• Travellers arriving into Taiwan are no longer required to submit a health declaration via Quarantine System for Entry.
• Travellers arriving into Taiwan are no longer required to have a mobile phone with a Taiwanese number.
• Arriving travellers are no longer issued COVID-19 Health Declarations and home quarantine notices.
• Covid-19 positive travellers must postpone their flights to Taiwan within five days after the specimen was collected.
• Travellers arriving in the country with any suspected COVID-19 symptoms within 14 days of arrival should be assessed by a quarantine officer upon arrival and undergo a saliva PCR test.
• Arriving travellers are no longer required to undergo quarantine, but rather undergo a seven-day period of self-initiated prevention.

Upon arrival,

• Four rapid test kits will be provided to all travellers aged 2 and older. The rapid test kits should be stored properly and tested on the designated dates. Rapid test kit will not be provided to passengers who are under the age of 2, and they will not be required to perform rapid tests during the period of self-initiated prevention.
• Passengers without symptoms may use public transportation, picked up by friends, relatives, companies or organizations.
• Passengers with symptoms should take the quarantine vehicles.

During Self-initiated prevention measure period,

• Travellers are required to stay at their primary home, a friend or relative’s residence, or a hotel that meets the requirement of one person per room (with a private bathroom) during the whole 7 days Self-initiated prevention measure period. However, if a shared bathroom can be cleaned and disinfected after each use, travellers can undergo self-initiated prevention in a room without a private bathroom. Cohabitants must take appropriate protective measures, including wearing face masks, practicing respiratory hygiene, washing hands frequently, and maintaining good hygiene and social distancing. They must avoid sharing food. Note: If all the people living with you or traveled with you need to undergo self-initiated prevention, the one person per room principle does not have to be followed.
• Perform one rapid test on the date of entry or 1st day of self-initiated prevention (D0/D1).
• A negative result from rapid test taken within the past 2 days is required before going out during the Self-initiated prevention period.
• If travellers developed symptoms during the Self-initiated prevention period, rapid tests should be performed by travellers themselves.
• Instructions for rapid test can be found here .
• For children aged below 2 years and developed COVID-19 symptoms during the Self-initiated prevention period, caregivers can take symptomatic children to a doctor by driving, riding, walking or getting a ride from friends or family members.  Caregivers can also contact their local health bureau to arrange medical treatment. In case of emergency medical needs, please call 119. Calling 119 for an ambulance is the advised mode of transportation. If an ambulance is not available, the caregiver should take a quarantine vehicle as instructed, get a ride from an individual residing in the same household to seek medical help, or seek medical care by themselves (e.g., walking or driving/riding). Note: Masks must be worn at all times, and no public transportation is allowed.

Please be informed transit at Brunei International Airport is currently not permitted. Guests are advised not to make bookings through a multiple city search that require a transit. Guests will not be permitted to board if travel restriction criteria and government approvals are not met. For further information please click here .

Requests for a full refund into a RB credit voucher or rebooking to a new travel date is applicable for all existing or new flights booked for travel until 31 October 2022 . This only applies to guests on affected flights. Please contact your nearest RB Customer Service Centre for assistance.

Please note that during this time, print-at-home boarding passes are temporarily unavailable. Kindly proceed to check-in counters for entry/exit approval verification and boarding pass collection. Check-in counters at the airport open three (3) hours prior to scheduled departure. It is our guests' responsibility to ensure they meet the strict travel criteria and have all appropriate approvals and documentations to enter/depart any country. Without these, RB is not permitted to allow guests to travel inline with international air transport regulations. Visit our dedicated COVID-19 page for more information.

Situation in Haiti April 5, 2024

U.s. citizens in haiti, update april 12, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Travel Advisory December 19, 2023

Brunei - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued after periodic review without changes.

Exercise normal precautions in Brunei.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Brunei. 

If you decide to travel to Brunei:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.  
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow Embassy Bandar Seri Begawan on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Brunei.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .     

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

6 months beyond arrival date

One page required for entry stamp, six blank visa pages if applying for visa

Review Entry, Exit, and Visa Requirements below.

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Bandar Seri Begawan

Simpang 336-52-16-9 Jalan Duta Bandar Seri Begawan BC4115, Brunei Darussalam Telephone:  +(673) 238-7500 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(673) 873-0691 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

COVID-19 Requirements:

• There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.
• U.S. passport holders must have at least six months’ validity remaining on their passport before entering Brunei for business or pleasure, and are required to obtain a visa prior to arrival in Brunei for visits of 90 days or longer. Travelers who apply for visas are also required to have at least six blank passport pages.  Effective on February 9, 2023, travelers are also required to obtain an  E-Arrival Card registration  approval before arrival to Brunei by air, land, and sea. Transit travelers are exempted from this requirement. The online E-Arrival Card registration is separate from visa requirements.  No payment is required for the registration. For further information about entry or exit requirements, travelers may consult the Consular Section of the Embassy of Brunei, 3520 International Court NW, Washington, DC 20008, tel. (202) 237-1838, or visit the  Embassy of Brunei website  for the most current visa information.
• Additionally:
• Immigration offenses, including overstay of your visa, are punishable by jail sentence, fines, and caning.
• Individuals associated with violators, such as contractors or employers, are subject to the same penalties if the violator is found guilty.
• HIV/AIDS Restrictions:
• Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of Brunei.  Brunei has imposed HIV/AIDS travel restrictions as part of a ban on communicable diseases.  The Ministry of Health (MOH) of Brunei Darussalam requires all travelers entering Brunei to fill out a Health Declaration Card and submit it to the Officer-In-Charge (MOH) upon disembarkation.
• Please verify this information with the  Embassy of Brunei  before you travel.
• You may be subjected to a medical examination upon arrival in Brunei Darussalam.  Travelers may be quarantined if infected or suspected to be infected with an infectious disease or if travelers have had contact with such a person.
• Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

For emergency services in Brunei:

·        Police: Dial 993

·        Ambulance: Dial 991

·        Fire & Rescue: Dial 995

·        Search & Rescue: Dial 998

Noting several past terrorist bombings in Indonesia, the Department of State continues to be concerned that terrorist groups, such as those claiming affiliation with the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), have the capability to carry out terrorist attacks throughout the region.

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad.  Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds.  Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

·         High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)

·         Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists

·         Places of worship

·         Schools

·         Parks

·         Shopping malls and markets

·         Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

U.S. citizens in Brunei should be vigilant regarding their personal security, maintain a low profile, vary times and routes during their daily routines, and report any suspicious activity to the local police and to the U.S. Embassy.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.  

Crime:  Most crimes that occur in Brunei are non-violent crimes of opportunity, including residential burglaries and vehicle break-ins.

· While in Brunei, you can generally avoid becoming a victim of a crime of opportunity by practicing good security awareness.  For example, secure your valuables (remove them from plain view), avoid secluded locations, properly secure your residence and vehicle, and do not travel alone late at night. 

· Crime in Brunei peaks in July and December, due to the holidays and schools being out of session. 

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Victims of Crime:

· U.S. citizen victims of crime should report crimes to the local police at 993 and contact the U.S. Embassy at (673) 238-7500 Monday – Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m., Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. or (673) 873-0691 (24 hours). 

· Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

·        help you find appropriate medical care

·        assist you in reporting a crime to the police

·        contact relatives or friends with your written consent

·        explain the local criminal justice process in general terms

·        provide a list of local attorneys

·        provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.

·        provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution

·        help you find accommodation and arrange flights home

·        replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules on best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. In remote areas, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to respond, stabilize a patient, and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Brunei’s civil penal code and Sharia Penal Code (commonly known as “the sharia law”) operate in parallel, and both include provisions for corporal and capital punishment. 

· Criminal penalties for some offenses are harsher than in the United States, including for some acts that are not crimes in the United States.  Under the Sharia Penal Code judicial procedures and punishments include, for certain offenses and under certain evidentiary circumstances, amputation of hands or feet and death by stoning. The Sharia Penal Code applies regardless of an individual’s religion or nationality, although some sections of the law have specific applicability to Muslims.

· Brunei adheres to conservative Islamic social values, and U.S. citizens are advised to learn and respect local customs and traditions. You should consult a guidebook or other travel information on Brunei for more information about respecting local cultural norms.

· Any public criticism of the Sultan or other members of the royal family, Sharia Penal Code, or Islam is illegal and punishable under Bruneian law.

· Under Brunei’s Sharia Penal Code, it is also an offense to consume any food, drink, or tobacco in public during the fasting hours of Ramadan.

· Gambling is illegal in Brunei.

· Prostitution and pornography are illegal and can result in harsh punishments.

· Non-Muslims may be arrested for khalwat (close proximity between the sexes) under the Sharia Penal Code provided that the other accused party is Muslim.  Khalwat may include activities from holding hands or public displays of affection to sexual activity.  Foreigners, including U.S. citizens, are subject to khalwat and zina (fornication or adultery).

· Extramarital sexual relations between a Muslim and non-Muslim are considered a crime in Brunei and may lead to severe punishment.

· Alcohol cannot be purchased legally in Brunei.  However, two liters of spirits/wine and 12 cans of beer (one can=330ml) may be imported by non-Muslim adults for personal consumption in private.

· Importation of firearms and ammunition is prohibited.  The illegal possession, use, distribution, and/or sale of firearms, ammunition, and/or explosives may carry severe penalties, including the death penalty.

· Illegal possession, use, distribution, and/or sale of drugs may carry severe penalties, including the possibility of the death penalty.

· Both medical and recreational use of marijuana is illegal in Brunei.  Drug use/possession may carry severe penalties.

· Visit the Brunei  Royal Customs and Excise Department’s  website for further information about Brunei’s Customs laws.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law.  For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.  See our  webpage  on arrests and detentions for further information.

· The Royal Brunei Police Force is generally professional and courteous.  Most officers speak English but some, especially from the reserve units, have limited-to-no English-speaking capability.

· You should carry a copy of your passport with you as you will need to produce proof of your identity should an incident occur.

Dual Nationality:  Brunei does not recognize or permit dual nationality. Brunei nationals are expected to enter and exit the country on their Brunei passports.  Should Bruneian authorities learn that a person is a dual national, they may require immediate renunciation of the citizenship of either the other nation or Brunei.

Customs Regulations:  Bruneian customs authorities enforce strict import/export regulations.  Contact the  Embassy of Brunei  in Washington, DC, for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

·        Faith-Based Travel Information

·        International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports

·        Human Rights Report  – see country reports

·        Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers

·        Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad   

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  Same-sex acts are criminalized in Brunei under Civil Law and also under the Sharia Penal Code.

· Possible penalties for same-sex acts under the Sharia Penal Code include fines, imprisonment, caning, and death by stoning.

· Under the civil penal code, possible punishments include a fine and up to 10 years in prison.

· Further information may be available from the  Embassy of Brunei Darussalam in Washington , DC or by contacting an attorney in Brunei.

See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in Brunei prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. However, there are no specific laws governing accessibility. While in Brunei, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from in the United States.

· Wheelchair ramps may not be available on all sidewalks, which often have very deep and wide gutters that may not be covered.

· Buildings may not always have wheelchair-accessible doorways or elevators.

· Crosswalks, elevators, and buildings do not generally have signage or warnings for the visually or hearing impaired.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Ambulance services are widely available.

COVID-19 Testing:

· If you need a COVID-19 RT-PCR or ART test, review the  Brunei Ministry of Health approved RT-PCR and ART Certification Center .

· For more information, contact Brunei’s Health Advice Line 148 (within working hours), or email  [email protected] .

COVID-19 Vaccines:

· The COVID-19 vaccine will be provided free of charge to citizens and residents residing in Brunei Darussalam.  Visit the  website of the Brunei Ministry of Health  for information on the Brunei Darussalam Vaccination Strategy.

·        Visit the FDA's website to learn more about  FDA-approved vaccines  in the United States.

There is adequate care for basic medical conditions in Brunei; however, for certain elective surgery or complicated care the best medical care in the region is obtained in Singapore or Bangkok.

The Department of State does not pay medical bills .  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.  Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

·        Brunei has a number of public hospitals and clinics.

·        Further information about health care facilities in Brunei can be found on the U.S. Embassy  website .

·        Medication and prescriptions are readily available but may not be the same brands as those found in the United States.

Medical Insurance:  Most private care providers in Brunei accept major credit cards or cash payments, and some may accept local bank transfers.  Public care providers only accept cash payments.  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas.  See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas.  Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on types of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation. 

Medication/Prescriptions:

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the  Embassy of Brunei  in Washington, DC, to ensure the medication is legal in Brunei. 

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. 

Marijuana for medical use, even with a prescription, is not legal in Brunei.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations recommended  by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

·        World Health Organization

·        U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Brunei has an extensive network of roads comparable to those in most western countries, and they are well maintained.

· Traffic moves on the left side of the road.

· Holders of a foreign driver’s license are permitted to drive in Brunei Darussalam for 90 days only.

· For longer stays, a foreign driver’s license must be endorsed to a Brunei driver’s license, available at any  Land Transport Department office.

· Drivers must always obey traffic rules and should take extra caution when approaching traffic signals.

· The Royal Brunei Police Force routinely sets up checkpoints and traffic stops, particularly at night, for license and registration checks, sobriety assessments, and contraband searches.

· If you are stopped by police, you will need to show your identification card, vehicle registration, and insurance card.

Traffic Laws:  

Review the Brunei  Land Transport Department  office website for information.

Public Transportation:

· There are six bus routes servicing the Bandar Seri Begawan area.  Normal operating hours are from 6:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. daily. Bus fares start from B$1.00.  Buses heading to other towns in Brunei such as Tutong, Kuala Belait, and Seria depart from the bus stops located at Jalan Kianggeh (opposite the Chinese temple) and Jalan McArthur (along waterfront) in Bandar Seri Begawan.

· Taxis can be found at the airport, hotels, shopping centers, and the central bus station in Bandar Seri Begawan and are metered. It is recommended that visitors use licensed, metered taxis or car services provided by hotels in Brunei. Car services through ridesharing apps have gained popularity both for convenience and fare transparency.

·        See our  Road Safety page  for more information. 

·        Visit the website of  Brunei Land Transport Department  and national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight:   As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Brunei, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Brunei’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:   Mariners planning travel to Brunei should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and the  NGA broadcast warnings website.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

 For additional IPCA-related information, please see  the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA)  report.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Brunei travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: March 13, 2024 14:33 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, brunei - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Brunei

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Violent crime is rare.

Petty crime, such as break-ins and theft, occurs. Crime increases in July when school is out of session, and during the December holidays.

Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times. Do not leave possessions in unattended vehicles.

If you intend on trekking in the rainforest:

• use recognized and well-known guides
• stay on the footpaths
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you’re properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your trekking area, including when you expect to return from your activity
• obtain detailed information on trekking routes before setting out and do not venture off marked paths

Brunei Tourism – Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety are good throughout the country.

Speeding, running red lights and distracted driving are common traffic infractions. In case of an accident, remain at the scene and do not move your vehicle until police arrive.

You can get a self-drive rental or chauffeur-driven car from major hotels and the airport. You should make arrangements for this before you arrive.

Public transportation

Buses operate between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. but are infrequent.

Public bus route – Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications

You can usually get a metered taxi at hotels, shopping centres and the airport. Your hotel can arrange for a taxi or provide a taxi driver’s cell-phone number. Some drivers will negotiate a fare.

Water taxis are the most common form of transport to and from Kampong Ayer. Fares are negotiable.

Brunei Metered Taxi - Land Transport Department of Brunei

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

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 Bruneian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

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 Brunei.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

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

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required for stays of more than 14 days Business visa: required for stays of more than 14 days Student visa: required

If you need a visa, you must have at least 6 blank pages in your passport.

Visa information – Ministry of Foreign Affairs Brunei

E-Arrival Card

You must register and get approved for an E-Arrival Card before arriving in Brunei by air, land or sea. If you arrived in Brunei before February 9, 2023, and didn't get an E-Arrival Card, you will need to get one before leaving Brunei. The E-Arrival Card is separate from any visa requirements.

You are exempt from this requirement if you are transiting through Brunei.

• Register for the E-Arrival Card online – Brunei’s Immigration and National Registration System portal
• Guidelines for E-Arrival Card - Government of Brunei

Health screening

You will not be allowed entry into Brunei if you have HIV/AIDS or any other communicable disease. You will be asked to complete a health declaration form upon entry.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations 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 may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

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.

• 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.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

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.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

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.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain.  It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

• travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
• making multiple trips to endemic areas
• staying for extended periods in rural areas
• visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
• engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   Limited malaria transmission may occur in this destination, but risk to travellers is very low.    Antimalarial medication is not recommended for most travellers. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times: 

• Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.
• Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
• Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
• Wear permethrin-treated clothing. 

If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

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.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

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.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

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.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. 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.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

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

Medical facilities are good, but medical evacuation to Singapore may be necessary for serious medical problems.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Death is the mandatory penalty for many narcotics offences, including trafficking controlled drugs, even in very small amounts.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

You can't purchase alcohol in Brunei and the import of alcohol is strictly regulated.

• Narcotics Control Bureau  - Government of Brunei
• Import regulations - Ministry of Finance of Brunei

Illegal activities

The following activities are illegal and convicted offenders can face severe penalties:

• possession of pornographic material
• possession of firearms, weapons and related accessories
• photography of government and military establishments or equipment
• persuading or inciting a Muslim to neglect their religious duties
• promoting any religion other than Islam

Overstaying a visa

Immigration regulations are strict. Foreign workers who overstay their visas face harsh penalties, including jail sentences and caning. If you’re working in Brunei, closely monitor your immigration status and visa expiration dates.

Extramarital relations

Extramarital relations and public displays of affection between a Muslim and non-Muslim may be considered a crime in Brunei.

Sharia penal code

The Sharia penal code applies regardless of a person’s religion or nationality. Penalties for certain offences can be severe, and can include physical punishment and the death penalty. Penalties may be applied for certain offences that would not be considered criminal in Canada. Brunei’s existing civil penal code and civil courts will continue to function in parallel with the Sharia penal code and Sharia Court.

Sharia penal code - Attorney General’s Chambers

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:

Discussing royal family

Avoid any public criticism of His Majesty the Sultan or other members of the Bruneian royal family.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Bruneian law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Those convicted can face severe penalties, including the death penalty.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Brunei.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Brunei.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Brunei, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

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 Brunei.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Brunei by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Brunei 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.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Traffic drives on the left.

Foreigners holding a driving permit issued by a country that is party to the Geneva Convention may convert that permit to a Brunei permit that can be used for up to one year.

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Land Transport Department - Government of Brunei

The currency in Brunei is the Brunei dollar.

Earthquakes

Brunei is located in an active seismic zone. However, earthquakes and volcano activity are not common.

Rainy/monsoon seasons

The rainy (or monsoon) seasons occur from September to January and from May to July. During these periods, even small storms can quickly develop into major ones. These severe rainstorms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services. They may also cause flooding and landslides.

If you decide to travel to Brunei during the monsoon seasons:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• 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
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Local weather updates - Brunei Meteorological Department

Unrestricted burning in neighbouring Indonesia periodically causes atmospheric pollution to rise to unhealthy levels. Pollutant standard index levels (PSI reading) change quickly and you should closely monitor them by consulting local news and weather reports.

PSI readings - Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation of Brunei

Local services

• police: 993
• medical assistance: 991
• firefighters: 995
• search & rescue: 998

Consular assistance

The High Commission of Canada in Brunei is currently offering consular services by appointment only at the British High Commission in Brunei. If you need consular assistance, contact us by email to make an appointment, or book an appointment online .

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in Brunei 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 .

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.

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Brunei's travel restrictions’ guidelines revised and goes into effect on May 15

Saturday, 23 Apr 2022

Related News

Brunei health ministry says health supplements from Japan's Kobayashi were never approved by govt

Brunei in high spirits as country celebrates raya in pomp and style, health supplements in question not approved by brunei health ministry.

Image from Borneo Bulletin/ANN

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, April 23 (Borneo BUlletin/ANN): The exit-country guideline requiring individuals to be fully vaccinated with a third dose for citizens and residents of Brunei and those intending to return to the country is now extended to individuals aged 12 to 17, effective May 15.

The announcement was made by Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar during the daily press conference yesterday.

Taking into consideration on the effectiveness of antigen rapid test (ART) in detecting active infections among individuals, as shown by data analysis (concordance and negative predictive value), the minister said local statistics have shown that there is no difference in infection risk between those arriving from countries under the Travel Green List (TGL) and those arriving from non-TGL countries, as well as the coordination of health protocols in the country.

“Cross-border travel protocols will be updated and subsequently implemented starting May 6,” the minister added.

This includes non-essential entry travel into Brunei via air is permitted for those who have completed their Covid-19 vaccinations from any country without Entry Travel Pass (ETP) applications.

Tthe definition for full vaccination is amended from only having two doses of Covid-19 vaccine to having a booster dose or if a booster dose is not yet received, individuals without a booster dose are required to have two doses of Covid-19 vaccinations, of which the second dose has to be obtained not more than three months prior to date of entry into the country; and removal of categorisation of TGL and non-TGL countries.

Other updates include fully vaccinated individuals entering the country are required to perform ART three times after their arrival in the country, such as on the day of arrival (D1), day two and day three.

Undergoing RT-PCR test upon arrival and self-isolation are no longer required, only if the ART results are negative.

A BND40 charge will be imposed for the three ART kits; and individuals who are not yet fully vaccinated are only permitted to enter the country if they can verify that they are medically exempted from receiving Covid-19 vaccinations, and are required to undergo ART upon arrival and RT-PCR test on the third day after arrival.

They are also required to undergo self-isolation until RT-PCR results are obtained. The BND100 charge for both ART and RT-PCR still remains.

“Cross-border activities through land and sea control posts are still not permitted, except for essential purposes only,” said the minister.

However, citizens and permanent residents of Brunei returning to the country via land or sea from essential travel are allowed to undergo self-isolation at home or hotels. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN

Tags / Keywords: Brunei , Travel , Guidelines , Revision , Effective May 15

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Brunei Darussalam Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Brunei Darussalam

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Brunei Darussalam entry details and exceptions

Ready to travel, find flights to brunei darussalam, find stays in brunei darussalam, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, dominican republic, netherlands, philippines, puerto rico, switzerland, united arab emirates, united kingdom, know when to go.

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Can I travel to Brunei Darussalam from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Brunei Darussalam.

Can I travel to Brunei Darussalam if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Brunei Darussalam without restrictions.

Can I travel to Brunei Darussalam without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Brunei Darussalam without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Brunei Darussalam?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Brunei Darussalam.

Can I travel to Brunei Darussalam without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Brunei Darussalam?

Mask usage in Brunei Darussalam is not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Brunei Darussalam?

Restaurants in Brunei Darussalam are open. Bars in Brunei Darussalam are .

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• Section 2 - Vaccination & Immunoprophylaxis— General Principles
• Section 2 - Yellow Fever Vaccine & Malaria Prevention Information, by Country

Interactions Between Travel Vaccines & Drugs

Cdc yellow book 2024.

Author(s): Ilan Youngster, Elizabeth Barnett

Vaccine–Vaccine Interactions

Travel vaccines & drugs, antimalarial drugs, drugs used for travel to high elevations, hiv medications, herbal & nutritional supplements.

During pretravel consultations, travel health providers must consider potential interactions between vaccines and medications, including those already taken by the traveler. A study by S. Steinlauf et al. identified potential drug–drug interactions with travel-related medications in 45% of travelers taking medications for chronic conditions; 3.5% of these interactions were potentially serious.

Most common vaccines can be given safely and effectively at the same visit, at separate injection sites, without impairing antibody response or increasing rates of adverse reactions. However, certain vaccines, including pneumococcal and meningococcal vaccines and live virus vaccines, require appropriate spacing; further information about vaccine–vaccine interactions is found in Sec. 2, Ch. 3, Vaccination & Immunoprophylaxis—General Principles .

Live Attenuated Oral Typhoid & Cholera Vaccines

Live attenuated vaccines generally should be avoided in immunocompromised travelers, including those taking antimetabolites, calcineurin inhibitors, cytotoxic agents, immunomodulators, and high-dose steroids (see Table 3-04 ).

Chloroquine and atovaquone-proguanil at doses used for malaria chemoprophylaxis can be given concurrently with oral typhoid vaccine. Data from an older formulation of the CVD 103-HgR oral cholera vaccine suggest that the immune response to the vaccine might be diminished when given concomitantly with chloroquine. Administer live attenuated oral cholera vaccine ≥10 days before beginning antimalarial prophylaxis with chloroquine. A study in children using oral cholera vaccine suggested no decrease in immunogenicity when given with atovaquone-proguanil.

Antimicrobial Agents

Antimicrobial agents can be active against the vaccine strains in the oral typhoid and cholera vaccines and might prevent adequate immune response to these vaccines. Therefore, delay vaccination with oral typhoid vaccine by >72 hours and delay oral cholera vaccine by >14 days after administration of antimicrobial agents. Parenteral typhoid vaccine is an alternative to the oral typhoid vaccine for travelers who have recently received antibiotics.

Rabies Vaccine

Concomitant use of chloroquine can reduce the antibody response to intradermal rabies vaccine administered as a preexposure vaccination. Use the intramuscular route for people taking chloroquine concurrently. Intradermal administration of rabies vaccine is not currently approved for use in the United States (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 19, . . . perspectives: Rabies Immunization ).

Any time a new medication is prescribed, including antimalarial drugs, check for known or possible drug interactions (see Table 2-05 ) and inform the traveler of potential risks. Online clinical decision support tools (e.g., Micromedex) provide searchable databases of drug interactions.

Atovaquone-Proguanil

Antibiotics.

Rifabutin, rifampin, and tetracycline might reduce plasma concentrations of atovaquone and should not be used concurrently with atovaquone-proguanil.

• Anticoagulants

Patients on warfarin might need to reduce their anticoagulant dose or monitor their prothrombin time more closely while taking atovaquone-proguanil, although coadministration of these drugs is not contraindicated. The use of novel oral anticoagulants, including dabigatran, rivaroxaban, and apixaban, is not expected to cause significant interactions, and their use has been suggested as an alternative for patients in need of anticoagulation.

Antiemetics

Metoclopramide can reduce bioavailability of atovaquone; unless no other antiemetics are available, this antiemetic should not be used to treat vomiting associated with the use of atovaquone at treatment doses.

Antihistamines

Travelers taking atovaquone-proguanil for malaria prophylaxis should avoid using cimetidine (an H2 receptor antagonist) because this medication interferes with proguanil metabolism.

Atovaquone-proguanil might interact with the antiretroviral protease inhibitors atazanavir, darunavir, indinavir, lopinavir, and ritonavir, or the nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) efavirenz, etravirine, and nevirapine, resulting in decreased levels of atovaquone-proguanil. For travelers taking any of these medications, consider alternative malaria chemoprophylaxis .

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors

Fluvoxamine interferes with the metabolism of proguanil; consider an alternative antimalarial prophylaxis to atovaquone-proguanil for travelers taking this selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).

Chloroquine

Antacids & Antidiarrheals

Chloroquine absorption might be reduced by antacids or kaolin; travelers should wait ≥4 hours between doses of these medications.

Chloroquine inhibits bioavailability of ampicillin, and travelers should wait ≥2 hours between doses of these medications. Chloroquine should not be coadministered with either clarithromycin or erythromycin; azithromycin is a suggested alternative . Chloroquine also reportedly decreases the bioavailability of ciprofloxacin.

Concomitant use of cimetidine and chloroquine should be avoided because cimetidine can inhibit the metabolism of chloroquine and increase drug levels.

CYP2D6 Enzyme Substrates

Chloroquine is a CYP2D6 enzyme inhibitor. Monitor patients taking chloroquine concomitantly with other substrates of this enzyme (e.g., flecainide, fluoxetine, metoprolol, paroxetine, propranolol) for side effects.

CYP3A4 Enzyme Inhibitors

CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., erythromycin, ketoconazole, ritonavir) can increase chloroquine levels; concomitant use should be avoided.

Chloroquine can increase digoxin levels; additional monitoring is warranted.

Immunosuppressants

Chloroquine decreases the bioavailability of methotrexate. Chloroquine also can cause increased levels of calcineurin inhibitors; use caution when prescribing chloroquine to travelers taking these agents.

QT-Prolonging Agents

Avoid prescribing chloroquine to anyone taking other QT-prolonging agents (e.g., amiodarone, lumefantrine, sotalol); when taken in combination, chloroquine might increase the risk for prolonged QTc interval. In addition, the antiretroviral rilpivirine has also been shown to prolong QTc, and clinicians should avoid coadministration with chloroquine.

Doxycycline

Antacids, Bismuth Subsalicylate, Iron

Absorption of tetracyclines might be impaired by aluminum-, calcium-, or magnesium-containing antacids, bismuth subsalicylate, and preparations containing iron; advise patients not to take these preparations within 3 hours of taking doxycycline.

Doxycycline can interfere with the bactericidal activity of penicillin; thus, in general, clinicians should not prescribe these drugs together. Coadministration of doxycycline with rifabutin or rifampin can lower doxycycline levels; monitor doxycycline efficacy closely or consider alternative therapy.

Patients on warfarin might need to reduce their anticoagulant dose while taking doxycycline because of its ability to depress plasma prothrombin activity.

Anticonvulsants

Barbiturates, carbamazepine, and phenytoin can decrease the half-life of doxycycline.

Antiretrovirals

Doxycycline has no known interaction with antiretroviral agents.

Concurrent use of doxycycline and calcineurin inhibitors or mTOR inhibitors (sirolimus) can cause increased levels of these immunosuppressant drugs.

Mefloquine can interact with several categories of drugs, including anticonvulsants, other antimalarial drugs, and drugs that alter cardiac conduction.

Mefloquine can lower plasma levels of several anticonvulsant medications, including carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, and valproic acid; avoid concurrent use of mefloquine with these agents.

Mefloquine is associated with increased toxicities of the antimalarial drug lumefantrine, which is available in the United States in fixed combination to treat people with uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria. The combination of mefloquine and lumefantrine can cause potentially fatal QTc interval prolongation. Lumefantrine should therefore be avoided or used with caution in patients taking mefloquine prophylaxis.

CYP3A4 Enzyme Inducers

CYP3A4 inducers include medications used to treat HIV or HIV-associated infections (e.g., efavirenz, etravirine, nevirapine, rifabutin) and tuberculosis (rifampin). St. John’s wort and glucocorticoids are also CYP3A4 inducers. All these drugs (rifabutin and rifampin, in particular) can decrease plasma concentrations of mefloquine, thereby reducing its efficacy as an antimalarial drug.

Potent CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., antiretroviral protease inhibitors, atazanavir, cobicistat [available in combination with elvitegravir], darunavir, lopinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir); azole antifungals (itraconazole, ketoconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole); macrolide antibiotics (azithromycin, clarithromycin, erythromycin); and SSRIs (fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, sertraline), can increase levels of mefloquine and thus increase the risk for QT prolongation.

Although no conclusive data are available regarding coadministration of mefloquine and other drugs that can affect cardiac conduction, avoid mefloquine use, or use it with caution, in patients taking antiarrhythmic or β-blocking agents, antihistamines (H1 receptor antagonists), calcium channel receptor antagonists, phenothiazines, SSRIs, or tricyclic antidepressants.

Concomitant use of mefloquine can cause increased levels of calcineurin inhibitors and mTOR inhibitors (cyclosporine A, sirolimus, tacrolimus).

Anti-Hepatitis C Virus Protease Inhibitors

Avoid concurrent use of mefloquine and direct-acting protease inhibitors (boceprevir and telaprevir) used to treat hepatitis C. Newer direct-acting protease inhibitors (grazoprevir, paritaprevir, simeprevir) are believed to be associated with fewer drug–drug interactions, but safety data are lacking; consider alternatives to mefloquine pending additional data.

Psychiatric Medications

Avoid prescribing mefloquine to travelers with a history of mood disorders or psychiatric disease; this information is included in the US Food and Drug Administration boxed warning for mefloquine.

Table 2-05 Drugs & drug classes that can interact with selected antimalarials

ANTIMALARIALS

DRUGS & DRUG CLASSES THAT CAN INTERACT

Atovaquone- proguanil

• Fluvoxamine
• Metoclopromide
• Tetracycline
• Calcineurin inhibitors
• Ciprofloxacin
• CYP2D6 enzyme substrates 1
• CYP3A4 enzyme inhibitors 2
• Methotrexate
• QT- prolonging agents 3
• Bismuth subsalicylate
• Barbiturates
• Carbamazepine
• Iron- containing preparations
• mTOR inhibitors
• Antiarrhythmic agents
• Beta blockers
• Calcium channel receptor antagonists
• CYP3A4 enzyme inducers 4
• H1 receptor antagonists
• Lumefantrine
• Phenothiazines
• Protease inhibitors
• Tricyclic antidepressants

1 Examples include flecainide, fluoxetine, metoprolol, paroxetine, and propranolol.

2 Examples include antiretroviral protease inhibitors (e.g., atazanavir, darunavir, lopinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir); azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole); macrolide antibiotics (e.g., azithromycin, clarithromycin, erythromycin); selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs; e.g., fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, sertraline); and cobicistat.

3 Examples include amiodarone, lumefantrine, and sotalol.

4 Examples include efavirenz, etravirine, nevirapine, rifabutin, rifampin, and glucocorticoids.

Drugs Used to Treat Travelers’ Diarrhea

Antimicrobials commonly prescribed as treatment for travelers’ diarrhea have the potential for interacting with several different classes of drugs ( Table 2-06 ). As mentioned previously, online clinical decision support tools provide searchable databases that can help identify interactions with medications a person may already be taking.

Azithromycin

Increased anticoagulant effects have been noted when azithromycin is used with warfarin; monitor prothrombin time for people taking these drugs concomitantly.

Because additive QTc prolongation can occur when azithromycin is used with the antimalarial artemether, avoid concomitant therapy.

Drug interactions have been reported with the macrolide antibiotics, clarithromycin and erythromycin; antiretroviral protease inhibitors; and the NNRTIs, efavirenz and nevirapine. Concomitant use of azithromycin and these drugs can increase the risk of QTc prolongation, but a short treatment course is not contraindicated for those without an underlying cardiac abnormality. When azithromycin is used with the protease inhibitor nelfinavir, advise patients about possible drug interactions.

Concurrent use of macrolides with calcineurin inhibitors can cause increased levels of drugs belonging to this class of immunosuppressants.

Fluoroquinolones

Concurrent administration of ciprofloxacin and antacids that contain magnesium or aluminum hydroxide can reduce bioavailability of ciprofloxacin.

An increase in the international normalized ratio (INR) has been reported when levofloxacin and warfarin are used concurrently.

Asthma Medication

Ciprofloxacin decreases clearance of theophylline and caffeine; clinicians should monitor theophylline levels when ciprofloxacin is used concurrently.

Immunosuppresants

Fluoroquinolones can increase levels of calcineurin inhibitors, and doses should be adjusted for renal function.

Sildenafil should not be used by patients taking ciprofloxacin; concomitant use is associated with increased rates of adverse effects. Ciprofloxacin and other fluoroquinolones should not be used in patients taking tizanidine.

Rifamycin SV

No clinical drug interactions have been studied. Because of minimal systemic rifamycin concentrations observed after the recommended dose, clinically relevant drug interactions are not expected.

Rifaximin is not absorbed in appreciable amounts by intact bowel, and no clinically significant drug interactions have been reported to date with rifaximin except for minor changes in INR when used concurrently with warfarin.

Table 2-06 Drugs & drug classes that can interact with selected antibiotics

ANTIBIOTICS

• HIV medications
• Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum hydroxide
• Theophylline

No clinical drug interactions have been studied; none are expected

Before prescribing the carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, acetazolamide, to those planning high elevation travel, carefully review with them the complete list of medications they are already taking ( Table 2-07 ).

Acetazolamide

Acetaminophen & Diclofenac Sodium

Acetaminophen and diclofenac sodium form complex bonds with acetazolamide in the stomach’s acidic environment, impairing absorption. Neither agent should be taken within 30 minutes of acetazolamide. Patients taking acetazolamide also can experience decreased excretion of anticholinergics, dextroamphetamine, ephedrine, mecamylamine, mexiletine, and quinidine.

Acetazolamide should not be given to patients taking the anticonvulsant topiramate because concurrent use is associated with toxicity.

Barbiturates & Salicylates

Acetazolamide causes alkaline urine, which can increase the rate of excretion of barbiturates and salicylates and could cause salicylate toxicity, particularly in patients taking a high dose of aspirin.

• Corticosteroids

Hypokalemia caused by corticosteroids could occur when used concurrently with acetazolamide.

Diabetes Medications

Use caution when concurrently administering metformin and acetazolamide because of increased risk for lactic acidosis.

Monitor cyclosporine, sirolimus, and tacrolimus more closely when given with acetazolamide.

Dexamethasone

Using dexamethasone to treat altitude illness can be lifesaving. Dexamethasone interacts with several classes of drugs, however, including: anticholinesterases, anticoagulants, digitalis preparations, hypoglycemic agents, isoniazid, macrolide antibiotics, oral contraceptives, and phenytoin.

Table 2-07 Drugs & drug classes that can interact with selected altitude illness drugs

ALTITUDE ILLNESS DRUG

• Acetaminophen
• Anticholinergics
• Aspirin, high dose
• Dextroamphetamine
• Diclofenac sodium
• Mecamylamine
• Anticholinesterases
• Digitalis preparations
• Hypoglycemic agents
• Macrolide antibiotics
• Oral contraceptives

Patients with HIV require additional consideration in the pretravel consultation (see Sec. 3, Ch. 1, Immunocompromised Travelers ). A study from Europe showed that ≤29% of HIV-positive travelers disclose their disease and medication status when seeking pretravel advice. Antiretroviral medications have multiple drug interactions, especially through their activation or inhibition of the CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 enzymes.

Several instances of antimalarial prophylaxis and treatment failure in patients taking protease inhibitors and both nucleoside and NNRTIs have been reported. By contrast, entry and integrase inhibitors are not a common cause of drug–drug interactions with commonly administered travel-related medications. Several potential interactions are listed above, and 2 excellent resources for HIV medication interactions can be found at  HIV Drug Interactions and HIV.gov . HIV preexposure prophylaxis with emtricitabine/tenofovir is not a contraindication for any of the commonly used travel-related medications.

Up to 30% of travelers take herbal or nutritional supplements. Many travelers consider them to be of no clinical relevance and might not disclose their use unless specifically asked during the pretravel consultation. Clinicians should give special attention to supplements that activate or inhibit CYP2D6 or CYP3A4 enzymes (e.g., ginseng, grapefruit extract, hypericum, St. John’s wort). Advise patients against coadministration of herbal and nutritional supplements with medications that are substrates for CYP2D6 or 3A4 enzymes, including chloroquine, macrolides, and mefloquine.

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Ilan Youngster, Elizabeth D. Barnett

Bibliography

Frenck RW Jr., Gurtman A, Rubino J, Smith W, van Cleeff M, Jayawardene D, et al. Randomized, controlled trial of a 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine administered concomitantly with an influenza vaccine in healthy adults. Clin Vaccine Immunol. 2012;19(8):1296–303.

Jabeen E, Qureshi R, Shah A. Interaction of antihypertensive acetazolamide with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. J Photochem Photobiol B. 2013;125:155–63.

Kollaritsch H, Que JU, Kunz C, Wiedermann G, Herzog C, Cryz SJ Jr. Safety and immunogenicity of live oral cholera and typhoid vaccines administered alone or in combination with antimalarial drugs, oral polio vaccine, or yellow fever vaccine. J Infect Dis. 1997;175(4):871–5.

Nascimento Silva JR, Camacho LA, Siqueira MM, Freire Mde S, Castro YP, Maia Mde L, et al. Mutual interference on the immune response to yellow fever vaccine and a combined vaccine against measles, mumps and rubella. Vaccine. 2011;29(37):6327–34.

Nielsen US, Jensen-Fangel S, Pedersen G, Lohse N, Pedersen C, Kronborg G, et al. Travelling with HIV: a cross sectional analysis of Danish HIV-infected patients. Travel Med Infect Dis. 2014;12(1):72–8.

Ridtitid W, Wongnawa M, Mahatthanatrakul W, Raungsri N, Sunbhanich M. Ketoconazole increases plasma concentrations of antimalarial mefloquine in healthy human volunteers. J Clin Pharm Ther. 2005;30(3):285–90.

Sbaih N, Buss B, Goyal D, Rao SR, Benefield R, Walker AT, et al. Potentially serious drug interactions resulting from the pre-travel health encounter. Open Forum Infect Dis. 2018;5(11):ofy266.

Stienlauf S, Meltzer E, Kurnik D, Leshem E, Kopel E, Streltsin B, et al. Potential drug interactions in travelers with chronic illnesses: a large retrospective cohort study. Travel Med Infect Dis. 2014;12(5):499–504.

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Brunei Darussalam

Latest update.

Exercise normal safety precautions in Brunei.

Brunei Darussalam (PDF 679.95 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 993 or contact local police.

Advice levels

Exercise normal safety precautions in Brunei.

• Serious crime is rare in Brunei. Petty crime such as theft and burglary does occur. Keep your valuables secure. Lock your accommodation, even when you're inside.
• Heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning strikes are common throughout the year. Incidents of objects and people being struck by lightning have occurred.
• Weather conditions can change quickly and leave you stranded or injured, especially at sea or in a remote area. If you're sailing, hiking, or in a remote area, be prepared and take all the necessary precautions that qualified personnel and local authorities recommend.  
• Crocodiles are common in Brunei, and crocodile attacks have occurred along the rivers. Use caution when around water sources and follow the advice of local authorities. 
• Stray dogs are common. Don't approach or touch dogs and be mindful of dogs when walking or exercising. Although there have been no official rabies cases in Brunei recently, cases have been reported recently in Malaysia close to the border with Brunei. See a doctor immediately if an animal scratches or bites you.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Insect-borne diseases occur. Make sure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent. Get vaccinated before you travel.
• HIV/AIDS is a risk. Take precautions if you engage in high-risk activities.
• Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases include hepatitis, hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) and tuberculosis. Avoid raw and undercooked foods.
• Local authorities may issue Red Tide warnings when red algae reach dangerous levels. These include warnings about swimming in certain areas or eating certain types of seafood. Check local media for Red Tide alerts.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Brunei's Infectious Disease Act includes penalties for various offences relating to controlling and preventing COVID-19. You must wear a mask when entering a hospital or medical clinic or attending an event where the organiser has directed participants to wear masks.
• Brunei is a Muslim country and has strict religious laws. These include laws around fasting during Ramadan, preaching without government permission, and Muslim religious observance. Know and follow these laws.
• Brunei's Sharia (Syariah) Penal Code took full effect in April 2019. It applies to everyone, including foreigners and non-Muslims. Some crimes, including blasphemy, sodomy and adultery, attract the death penalty under sharia law. Understand the law before you travel.
• Selling alcohol and consuming alcohol in public is against the law. Smoking is illegal in most public places. It's also illegal to import alcohol and tobacco products above legal limits. If you import alcohol, keep the paperwork to prove it's legal. Check with the  Brunei Customs and Excise Department  before bringing alcohol or tobacco into Brunei.
• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Some drug offences have mandatory death penalty sentences. Other penalties include long prison sentences or physical punishment.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• To enter Brunei, you'll need a visa. In some cases you may be able to obtain and pay for a visa on arrival. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest high commission or consulate of Brunei for the latest details.
• You're required to complete an E-Arrival Card online before arriving in and departing Brunei. This includes air, land and sea routes. If you're transiting, you will not be required to complete an E-Arrival Card. 
• You no longer require COVID-19 insurance to enter Brunei, but this is strongly encouraged.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian High Commission in Bandar Seri Begawan .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Serious crime is rare.

Travellers are occasionally the victims of petty crime, such as theft, burglary, and vehicle break-ins.

To protect yourself from crime:

• leave valuables in a secure location
• watch your personal belongings
• always lock doors and windows at your accommodation

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations and protests.

Civil unrest is rare.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

To protect yourself from possible violence:

• avoid protests and demonstrations
• follow the advice of local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Climate and natural disasters

Brunei experiences heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning strikes throughout the year. Incidents of objects and people being struck by lightning have occurred.

The wet seasons are September to January and May to July. Flooding and mudslides are common during these times.

Severe weather  can affect essential services, such as power.

If a  natural disaster  occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• monitor local media and other sources such as the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• keep in contact with friends and family

Wildlife and outdoor activities

Brunei is home to saltwater crocodiles. They live along the Brunei River and beaches. People fishing on the riverbank have been attacked and killed by crocodiles.

There are venomous snakes in Brunei. Keep your distance if you encounter a snake outdoors. If a snake is found indoors or in a confined space, call Fire and Rescue Services on 995, who also capture and remove crocodiles.  

Stray dogs are common. Don't approach or touch dogs. Be mindful of dogs when walking or exercising.

Although there have been no official rabies cases in Brunei recently, cases have been reported recently in Malaysia close to the border with Brunei. Rabies is fatal if you don't get vaccinated or don't get medical treatment quickly. See a doctor immediately if a dog, monkey or other animal scratches or bites you.  

Outdoors Activities

Trekking in the jungle and parks can range from beginner-level to more advanced options. Trekkers have been known to go missing. Inform family and friends before your trek and take a phone and sufficient supplies. 

Avoid swimming in rivers, wear a life vest when on boats and adhere to local advice when near a water source, as crocodiles in Brunei have been known to attack people. 

Local beach rescue services may not be of the same standard as in Australia.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Brunei. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• the required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Insect-borne diseases occur, including:

• Japanese encephalitis

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

We recommend you get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis if you travel to rural areas. Seek medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

HIV/AIDS  is a risk in Brunei. 

Take precautions if you engage in activities that expose you to the risk of infection.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common, including:

• hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD)
• tuberculosis

Severe outbreaks sometimes occur.

Avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads.

Seek medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

• Infectious diseases

Red algae sometimes reaches dangerous levels in coastal waters. Local authorities may issue red tide warnings about:

• swimming in certain areas
• eating certain types of seafood

Local authorities print warnings about red algae in local newspapers, including in English-language publications.

If there's a red tide alert, follow local warnings. This algal bloom can cause paralytic shellfish poisoning. Avoid shellfish and seafood because they may be affected.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical facilities in Brunei's public hospitals are of reasonable quality.

Private hospital facilities are of a high standard.

If you have severe symptoms of COVID-19 you may be treated at a dedicated COVID-19 hospital.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be moved to Australia or Singapore. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

In Brunei, it's illegal to:

• eat, drink or smoke in public places between sunrise and sunset during  Ramadan
• persuade a Muslim to neglect their religious duties
• preach religions other than Islam, or preach Islam without permission from the government
• fail to attend Friday prayers if you are an adult male Muslim
• teach Islamic doctrine outside your own home or to anyone outside your household, without permission

It's also illegal to:

• conduct same-sex sexual activity
• possess pornographic material
• carry firearms or related items, including ammunition and empty cartridge shells
• sell alcohol
• import alcohol or tobacco products above legal limits

If you import alcohol, keep documents to prove you did so legally.

• Advice for LGBTI people
• Royal Customs and Excise Department

It's illegal to smoke in:

• government buildings
• recreational and educational centres
• public transport
• restaurants
• other specified public places

Photography

It's illegal to photograph:

• government or military infrastructure or equipment
• places used by security forces
• communications infrastructure
• civil infrastructure
• any other prohibited places or areas in the vicinity of such places

Brunei’s Sharia (Syariah) Penal Code came fully into effect from April 2019.

Sharia law applies to:

• Muslims and
• non-Muslims

whether resident Bruneians or foreigners. It applies even when transiting on Brunei-registered aircraft and vessels.

Non-Muslims may be arrested for being in close proximity with a Muslim of the opposite sex under the Sharia Penal Code – an offence known as khalwat .

Common law and courts will continue to operate in parallel with the Sharia Penal Code and courts.

Serious crimes can attract:

• the death penalty
• physical punishment
• imprisonment

Crimes that attract the death penalty include:

• Syariah Penal Code (Brunei Attorney-General's Chambers)

Some drug offences carry a mandatory death penalty. Other penalties include long prison sentences and physical punishment.

• Carrying or using drugs

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Brunei doesn't recognise  dual nationality .

Australians entering with a Bruneian passport will be treated as Bruneian by local authorities.

Enter on an Australian passport to ensure access to Australian consular services.

Local customs

Dress and behaviour standards are conservative. Take care not to offend.

If in doubt, seek local advice.

Be cautious when making comments about local issues, particularly those relating to the royal family. You could cause offence or even attract legal consequences.

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan is observed in Brunei. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

You need a visa to travel to Brunei. Visas and other entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Brunei High Commission or Brunei Ministry of Foreign Affairs for details about visas, currency, customs, and quarantine rules.

Immigration regulations are strictly enforced and overstaying can attract physical punishments.

Check the entry stamp in your passport to confirm how long you can stay.

Monitor your immigration status and visa expiry date.

• Brunei Department of Immigration and National Registration
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Border measures

You must have the following before boarding your flight:

• a valid air ticket
• a valid visa (for visa-required passport holders).
• a completed E-Arrival Card

You're required to complete an E-Arrival Card online before arriving in and departing Brunei. This includes air, land and sea routes. Transit passengers who do not pass through Brunei's immigration control posts will not be required to complete an E-Arrival Card. Refer to Brunei's  Immigration and National Registration System Portal  for more information.

Children under 18 do not need to be fully vaccinated to enter or transit through Brunei.

Other formalities

If you wish to cross Brunei's land or sea borders, you must apply online through the  Exit and Entry System (EES) . There is a service fee of $BND 3.00.

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Check that your passport has at least 6 blank pages back-to-back, as recommended by Brunei authorities.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact  the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you’re overseas, contact the nearest  Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTI travellers  

The local currency is the Brunei Dollar ($BND). You can also use Singapore dollars ($SGD). They have the same value as the BND.

You can use credit cards in some places.

Australian dollars can be changed at banks, hotels and authorised exchange bureaus.

Local travel

If you plan to visit Malaysia, including Sabah or Sarawak, read our  travel advice for Malaysia .

If you plan to visit Kalimantan, read our  travel advice for Indonesia .

Driving permit

To drive in Brunei for up to 1 year, you need both:

• an Australian driver's licence
• a valid international driving permit (IDP)

Driving without an IDP could void your travel and vehicle insurance.

You should get a local driver’s licence if you need to drive for longer than 1 year.

Road travel

Driving can be dangerous. It's common for drivers to:

• drive through red lights
• exceed the speed limit
• not use seatbelts
• drive without a licence or insurance

If you plan to drive:

• check that your insurance policy covers driving
• get to know the local traffic laws and practices
• drive legally
• avoid 'road rage'
• don't react to other drivers

If you're involved in a road accident as a driver, don't leave the scene or move your vehicle until the police have arrived.

There are limits on the sale of diesel and petrol for vehicles not registered in Brunei.

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check whether your insurance policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Only use registered taxis and authorised limousines. You can arrange them:

• through your hotel
• at the Brunei International Airport
• through DART Taxi online

Public transport

A very limited public bus service operates throughout Brunei.  For the main Brunei-Muara and Kuala Belait districts the services operate between 6am and 8pm.

The bus service is often unreliable.

• Transport and getting around safely

International cruise lines stop over in Brunei.

• Going on a cruise

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Brunei's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when reporting a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian High Commission in Bandar Seri Begawan.

Australian High Commission, Bandar Seri Begawan

Level 6, Dar Takaful IBB Utama building Jalan Pemancha Bandar Seri Begawan BS 8711 Brunei Darussalam Phone: (+673) 222 9435 Fax: (+673) 222 1652 Email:  [email protected] Website:  bruneidarussalam.embassy.gov.au Facebook:  Australia in Brunei Darussalam

Twitter:  @AusHCBrunei  

Check the Australian High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can’t contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Travel Vaccinations for Brunei Darussalam

Vaccinations, certificate requirements.

Yellow fever vaccination certificate required for travellers aged 9 months or over arriving from countries with  risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited more than 12 hours through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever.

How much will it cost?

Hepatitis A is a viral infection which causes an inflammation of the liver. In countries where hep A is prominent, many people catch it as a child. The infection tends to be mild in children but can occasionally cause complications. In adults, however, it can lead to liver damage or even liver failure. Although infection rates appear to be on the decrease, hepatitis A is endemic to Sri Lanka and the vaccination is recommended for all travellers.

Indonesia is a risk country for Japanese encephalitis, a viral infection passed on by mosquitoes. It can cause severe symptoms and long term damage. If you are travelling to areas where Japanese encephalitis is endemic you may need the vaccination in addition to practicing insect bite avoidance.

Rabies is a disease transmitted when you’re scratched or bitten by an animal that carries the disease. This could be any wild animal such as a bat or a fox but also a domestic animal such as a dog or cat. Although animals who have rabies will develop symptoms as the disease progresses, you can’t know for sure whether an animal carries it. Rabies is almost always fatal so it’s very important that you seek medical attention immediately if you’re bitten or scratched by an animal while in a country where rabies is endemic. The nurse or pharmacist may recommend the vaccine if you will be visiting rural areas with limited access to medical care or if you are planning to work with or handle animals. They may also recommend it if you’re staying for longer than one month.

Why do I need a consultation?

It is difficult to say which vaccines you need without asking a medical professional. Your itinerary, your medical history and the activities you have planned all affect which vaccinations you need. It is important that a trained travel nurse or pharmacist checks what you need.

Exactly the travel vaccinations you need - no more, no less.

During your consultation, our nurse or pharmacist will talk you through the health risks at your travel destinations to check which vaccines you need. If a vaccine is not essential, we will explain your options so you can decide whether you would like to have it.

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease transmitted by mosquitoes. You cannot be vaccinated against malaria.

Malaria Precautions

• Human P.knowlesi malaria has been reported. Antimalarial tablets are not usually advised. Travellers are advised to avoid mosquito bites and report any fevers promptly.

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1 book an appointment.

Book online or call our booking line. Our lines are open every day!

2 Attend Consultation

During your appointment, the nurse or pharmacist will assess which vaccines or medications you need.

3 Get your treatment

Once our health advisor has assessed your needs, you'll receive your vaccinations & treatments straight away.

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Book an appointment online, attend your consultation, get your treatment, what our customers think, popular destinations, south africa.

I've traveled to 9 out of 10 countries in Southeast Asia. Here are the 5 biggest mistakes I made along the way.

• I've traveled solo to nine countries in Southeast Asia.
• I've made many mistakes, from traveling during monsoon season to forgetting to bring enough cash.
• Travelers should make sure they plan ahead and research each country's culture.

Over the last two years, my journey as a travel enthusiast and Business Insider's travel reporter in Singapore has brought me to almost every country in Southeast Asia.

In total, there are 10 countries in Southeast Asia , and I've traveled to nine of them — Singapore, Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, and Brunei. Myanmar remains the only country in the region I have not visited, and while I am keen to explore it, I have held off on visiting because of the country's ongoing civil war.

I've watched the sun rise in Angkor Wat in Cambodia and cared for elephants in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I've explored the Bornean jungle in Brunei and crawled the Cu Chi Tunnels in southern Vietnam.

But it hasn't always been easy. I've made several mistakes traveling across the region , especially as a solo traveler. Here are five mistakes I made and how to avoid them.

1. Going during monsoon season and not planning for the weather.

In July, I traveled to Thailand on a reporting trip to cover the budding cannabis industry . There, I was met with heavy rain nearly every day. In Bangkok, I was staying in a hostel in Chakkrawat , a district with narrow, meandering streets, which made it difficult to walk anywhere in the pouring rain.

I didn't plan for the weather, so I didn't have an umbrella or poncho with me and had to rush to get one at the last minute. I also had a packed itinerary with a lot of travel between meetings, which was a hassle in the constant downpour.

Before traveling to Southeast Asia, make sure to avoid two seasons — the monsoon season, which often comes with strong typhoons in countries like the Philippines, and the burning season, where farmers burn land for fertile soil. This is a common occurrence in countries like Laos, Thailand, and the island of Borneo, which is shared between Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

When I traveled to Laos in April last year during the burning season , most of my plans — including a hot air balloon ride — were canceled because of the thick smog. I also didn't have an N95 mask with me, and I ended up with a sore throat.

If you do plan to come during these seasons, make sure to pack accordingly and plan a flexible schedule.

2. Traveling during Ramadan and expecting the same practices everywhere.

Having grown up in Singapore, I'm familiar with the practices during Ramadan , the holy month for Muslims, where they fast for most of the day. I studied Malay for seven years, and in school, I often fasted with my Muslim classmates and ate only in private.

Still, in many cities in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia , non-Muslims are free to dine in public, so long as they do so respectfully. But on my trip to Brunei in April — at the height of the burning season and in the middle of Ramadan — there were more practices I needed to observe.

Most restaurants were closed, and diners weren't allowed to eat there even if they were open — only take-out was allowed. Eating in public was a major faux pas even for non-Muslims, and if you want to drink some water, you can only do so when nobody is around.

It wasn't easy, especially as Brunei was sweltering at 100 degrees Fahrenheit on some days. I made do by returning to the hotel for lunch and grabbing a big dinner with the locals at the night market after they had broken their fast.

3. Not packing enough modest outfits when visiting temples and mosques.

Southeast Asia is pretty liberal, and you can wear whatever you want in many places. In popular destinations like Phuket, Thailand, and Bali, Indonesia, lots of tourists walk around in bikini tops and shorts, and locals mostly tolerate it.

But there are certain places you do need to cover up, like places of worship, which include temples and mosques. When I visited Angkor Wat — the famed temple complex in Cambodia — in February last year, I found some tourists being told off by the local tour guides for wearing shorts and tank tops — "Tomb Raider" style.

I've learned to err on the right side of caution and bring a sarong wherever I go. It's an easy way to cover up and make an outfit more modest when you need to.

4. Forgetting to pack medication, especially when I plan to eat street food.

Southeast Asia has some of the world's most flavorful food. In every country, you can find food that is cheap and delicious, and that includes Singapore , the world's most expensive city. In countries like Malaysia and Vietnam, street food dishes can cost as little as a dollar.

I eat mostly street food when I travel in Southeast Asia, so medicine for tummy-related illnesses is a must. I've only gotten sick twice from eating street food — and it was the same dish both times— and unfortunately, those were the few times I didn't have medicine with me.

I'm a pretty adventurous eater. I've eaten everything from pufferfish stew to frog porridge and dishes made with intestines off the street. I've learned to wash the utensils provided before digging in and make sure the food is cooked to order and heated up before being served.

5. Relying on my card and not bringing enough cash with me.

In Singapore, I don't really use cash and often use Apple Pay, mobile payments, and cards. But I've found that many stores in other countries in Southeast Asia only accept cash.

For example, on my third trip to Vietnam, I spent an hour trying to make payment via bank transfer after the staff at a luxury perfume shop — which was selling items priced upwards of $200 — informed me at the last minute that they didn't accept card or contactless payment.

I've also found the majority of street vendors in the region only accept mobile payment — which is limited to local banks — or cash. I've learned to change a considerable amount of money before leaving the airport and keep whatever I didn't use for my next trip.

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