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Advisory: how does the federal travel advisory affect your travel insurance.

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Government of Canada advises Canadians to avoid non-essential travel abroad

From: Global Affairs Canada

News release

The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada has issued an official global travel advisory to avoid non-essential travel abroad.

March 13, 2020 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

In an attempt to limit the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), many governments have implemented special entry and exit and movement restrictions for their territories. New restrictions could be imposed, and could severely disrupt Canadians’ travel plans.

As a result, the Government of Canada is advising Canadians to avoid non-essential travel outside of Canada until further notice.

Canadians currently outside the country should find out what commercial options are still available and consider returning to Canada earlier than planned if these options are becoming more limited.

We encourage Canadians abroad to register with the  Registration of Canadians Abroad  service.

Canadians abroad in need of emergency consular assistance can call Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at +1 613-996-8885 (collect calls are accepted where available) or email [email protected] .

“We are monitoring the situation abroad to provide credible and timely information to Canadians to help them make well-informed decisions regarding their travel. We also continue to work around the clock to provide assistance and consular services to Canadians abroad affected by COVID-19.” - François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs

Associated links

• Travel Advice and Advisories
• Canadian travellers: Avoid all cruise ship travel due to COVID-19
• Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Outbreak update
• Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Resources for Canadian businesses

Syrine Khoury Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs [email protected]

Media Relations Office Global Affairs Canada 343-203-7700 [email protected]

Page details

Snowbird Advisor Insurance

COVID-19 Travel Insurance Coverage Options - UPDATE LEARN MORE

The Insurance Specialists for Snowbirds, Boomers and Seniors

How travel advisories can affect your travel insurance coverage.

Travel Advisories issued by the Government of Canada can affect your travel insurance coverage. Here's what you need to know.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Please be advised that this article was published  prior to the current COVID-19 Pandemic. The manner in which travel insurance providers handle COVID-related Travel Advisories  issued by the Government of Canada may have changed due to the pandemic.

Find the latest updates on Snowbird Advisor Insurance's COVID-19 coverage options and how they may be impacted by Government of Canada Travel Advisories here.

Many travellers book their travel far in advance of the actual trip. This is particularly true for snowbirds, seniors and boomers, who often plan their winters away – as well as other travel like cruises and guided tours - several months or even a year ahead of time.

Unfortunately, much can change between the time you book and your departure date, from natural disasters to disease outbreaks and even civil unrest and violence that didn’t exist at the time of your booking.

When such events occur, the Government of Canada will usually issue a travel advisory warning Canadians about the risk of travel to the affected country or region.

What you may not know is that travel insurance policies include language that can exclude coverage if you travel to a region for which the Canadian government has issued a travel advisory, resulting in your insurance claim being denied.

Here’s what you need to know about this often-overlooked clause in your travel insurance policy and how to reduce the risk that your claim will be denied due to a travel advisory.

What is a travel advisory?

The Global Affairs Canada travel information team analyses incidents affecting international travellers and promptly updates travel advisories in order to inform Canadians of situations that may affect their health, safety and security abroad.

The Government of Canada recommends that all Canadians read these advisories before booking their trip or leaving Canada, and while travel advisories can be issued for any number of reasons, the most common ones are related to:

• Natural disasters such as hurricanes, flooding, tsunamis and wildfires
• Infectious disease and illness outbreaks
• Violence and civil unrest

Travel advisories have become increasingly relevant for snowbirds, as growing numbers are choosing to spend their winters in more exotic locations, some of which are more susceptible natural disasters, disease and violence.

How do travel advisories work?

The Government of Canada employs a 4-risk level system to assist travellers in assessing the threat in a particular country or region. The four possible risk levels are:

• Exercise normal security precautions There are no significant safety and security concerns. The overall safety and security situation is similar to that of Canada. You should take normal security precautions.
• Exercise a high degree of caution There are identifiable safety and security concerns or the safety and security situation could change with little notice. You should exercise a high degree of caution at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Avoid non-essential travel There are specific safety and security concerns that could put you at risk. You should reconsider your need to travel to the country, territory or region. If you are already in the country, territory or region, you should reconsider whether or not you really need to be there. If not, you should consider leaving while it is still safe to do so. It is up to you to decide what “non-essential travel” means, based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with a country, territory or region, and other factors.
• Avoid all travel   There is an extreme risk to your personal safety and security. You should not travel to this country, territory or region. If you are already in the country, territory or region, you should consider leaving if it is safe to do so.

Many travel insurance policies will exclude coverage if you travel to a country or region for which the Government of Canada has issued a Level 3 or Level 4 travel advisory.

However, you should always check the specific language in your policy for travel advisory related coverage exclusions before purchasing travel insurance, as terms and exclusions may differ among providers.

How can travel advisories affect my travel insurance coverage?

Travel advisories can affect your travel insurance coverage a little differently depending on the type of coverage.

Emergency Medical Coverage

If a travel advisory was issued for your destination before you departed on your trip and you became sick or injured during your trip, the coverage exclusion would apply and your travel insurance provider could deny your claim.

However, if the travel advisory was issued after you already departed for your trip and you became sick or injured, the coverage exclusion would not apply and your claim would be eligible for coverage

Trip Cancellation Coverage

If a travel advisory was issued for your destination before you purchased your insurance coverage and you need to cancel your trip before you leave, the coverage exclusion would apply and your travel insurance provider could deny your claim.

However, if the travel advisory was issued after you purchased your insurance coverage and you need to cancel your trip before you leave, the coverage exclusion would not apply and you would be eligible to make a claim.

Trip Interruption Coverage

If a travel advisory was issued for your destination before you departed on your trip and you need to return home early, the coverage exclusion would apply and your travel insurance provider could deny your claim.

However, if the travel advisory was issued after you departed on your trip and you need to return home early, the coverage exclusion would not apply and you would be eligible to make a claim.

Travel Advisory Tips

Follow these tips to reduce the likelihood of having a travel insurance claim denied due to a travel advisory and stay informed if a travel advisory is issued while you are travelling:

• Make sure you read and understand the policy exclusions related to travel advisories before you purchase travel medical or trip cancellation & interruption insurance.
• Check to see if there is a travel advisory in place for your destination before you book your trip and purchase insurance as well as prior to departing on your trip. You can check for Government of Canada issued travel advisories here. You can also subscribe to receive daily emails that summarize changes made to travel advisories while you are away.
• Register online with the Government of Canada’s Canadians Abroad program before you depart on your trip so the government can provide you with assistance like notifying you about emergencies and travel advisories while you’re travelling.

Disclaimer:  The material provided in the Snowbird Advisor Insurance Learning Centre is for informational purposes only and does NOT constitute insurance, legal, financial or other advice, and should not be relied on as such. If you require such advice, you should speak with a qualified professional to assist you.

Travel Insurance:

Manulife coverage is underwritten by The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company and First North American Insurance Company , a wholly-owned subsidiary of Manulife, PO Box 670, Stn. Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2J 4B8.* Manulife and the Block design are trademarks of The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company and are used by it and its affiliates under license. 

Blue Cross coverage is underwritten by Canassurance Hospital Service Association and/or Canassurance Insurance Company .*

* Certain terms, conditions, limitations, and exclusions apply, see policies for details. Some products may not be available in all provinces.

Home & Auto Insurance:

Home and Auto insurance is arranged by Canadian Insurance Alliance (2018) Inc. o/a HUB SmartCoverage (all rights reserved) and is underwritten by a number of Canadian insurers.

For more than 20 years, HUB SmartCoverage has worked with some of the largest insurance companies in Canada, servicing the home and auto insurance needs of Canadians in Alberta, Ontario and the Atlantic provinces, as well as providing residents of British Columbia with home insurance solutions.

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Canada lifts Global Travel Advisory to avoid non-essential travel for fully vaccinated Canadians

LAST UPDATED: November 3, 2021

On October 21, 2021, the Government of Canada lifted its Level 3 Global COVID-19 Travel Advisory to avoid non-essential travel for fully vaccinated Canadians.

COVID-19 travel advisories are now being issued on a country/regional basis .

The Level 3 advisory (Avoid non-essential travel) remains in place for unvaccinated Canadians, as does the Level 4 advisory to avoid all cruise ship travel outside Canada.

Travel advisories lowered for many popular snowbird destinations

As a result of this change, travel advisory levels have now been lowered to Level 1 or Level 2 for many popular snowbird destinations for fully vaccinated travellers.

You can find current travel advisory levels for popular snowbird destinations by clicking on the links below:

• United States
• All other destinations

Travel Insurance Coverage

The change also has implications for some, but not all, travel insurance policies, as some policies that would not cover COVID-19 due to the Level 3 Travel Advisory will once again cover COVID now that the advisory has been lifted.

However, it’s important to note that different insurance providers may interpret the change in travel advisory levels differently as it related to COVID coverage, so make sure you find out what your travel insurance provider’s policy is on this front.

Important Vaccination Requirement Notes for Travellers

• Beginning on November 8, 2021 , all travellers 18 years and older entering the United States by land, air or sea will be required to be fully vaccinated
• As of October 30, 2021 , all travellers age 12 years and older must be fully vaccinated to board a plane, train or marine vessel in Canada. However, there is a brief "transition period" until November 30, 2021,  during which time travellers are able to present a valid negative COVID-19 molecular test taken within 72 hours of travel as an alternative to proof of vaccination.

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When Travel Warnings & Advisories Impact Travel Insurance

Whether it’s a global pandemic, the devastation of wildfires, menacing hurricanes, civil unrest and protests or unfortunate acts of terrorism, these events have given a new meaning to travel uncertainty, even among the most seasoned travellers. That’s why it’s more important than ever to learn more about the Canadian Government’s travel warnings and advisories, how to understand them, and how they could impact your travel insurance coverage.  

O fficial travel warning and advisor y risk levels

Global Affairs Canada issues travel advisories and warnings to ensure the safety and wellbeing of Canadians travelling abroad. When it deems there is a risk, it will communicate official information and advice for the region and/or country concerned. While it’s still safe to travel under levels 1 and 2, levels 3 and 4 suggest major concerns for Canadians and can have implications to your travel insurance coverage.  

Specific unforeseen events include:  

• Health emergencies including COVID-19 , Zika, Ebola, and more  
• Terrorism, war or military coups  
• Civil unrest or political instability, including riots or protests 
• Natural disasters like hurricanes , earthquakes, wildfires and tsunamis 

3 S cenarios: h ow travel a dvisories can affect t ravel i nsurance  

TuGo® Travel insurance may cover unforeseen circumstances once an official travel advisory has been issued by the Government of Canada.

Here are some examples…  

Emergency Medical Insurance – Pandemic

Randy is fully vaccinated and is unexpectedly hospitalized for COVID-19 during his extended stay in Florida. His medical expenses may  be covered since TuGo covers COVID-19, regardless of travel advisory level.

Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption Insurance – Massive Earthquake

2 days before departure, Sally and Peter learn that an earthquake has caused massive destruction in the Italian region they’ve planned to visit. A level 3 travel advisory is issued by the Government of Canada to avoid non-essential travel to their destination and is still in place on their departure date. Coverage may be provided for  their cancellation expenses.

Trip Interruption Insurance – Military Invasion

While Leila is visiting the Ukraine, a military invasion takes place, and a level 4 travel advisory is issued by the Canadian Government Leila’s insurance may cover expenses for her to return home early, since the advisory was issued after she bought the policy. 

Curious about Leila’s Emergency Medical coverage? Since her Emergency Medical policy was in effect before the travel advisory was issued, she has coverage for an emergency or a medical condition, up to a period of 30 days from the date the travel advisory was issued. 

4 more ways to stay informed and prepared

• Keep tabs on travel advisories by downloading the Government of Canada’s Travel Smart App  
• Set Google Alerts for your destination 
• Check TuGo’s Travel Advisories page before booking your trip and again, a few days before leaving.  
• Keep the Canadian Consulate contact information with you during your travels in case of emergencies, legal issues, lost or stolen passports and/or contacting friends or relatives back home. 

Remember! Read your policy carefully before your trip, and ask your insurance provider about coverage specific to your destination, in case you need to cancel your trip or return home early. 

Have more questions about how terrorism, unforeseen events or travel advisories impact travel insurance? Feel free to leave a comment below. 

Safe travels, 

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in April 2022 and has been updated for freshness and/or accuracy. 

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Hello. If one purchases TuGo emergency medical insurance, for a country that currently has a travel warning against non-essential travel, and incurs a medical emergency unrelated to the travel warning, would the person still normally be covered?

Hi Matt, Thank you for your query. TuGo’s emergency medical insurance protects you from unexpected illnesses or injuries while you’re away from home. There are two scenarios that can happen if a formal travel advisory and/or travel warning has been issued by Global Affairs Canada or Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) recommending to avoid non-essential travel to a destination: • If the travel advisory is issued after the date you leave for your trip, your TuGo travel insurance policy will cover you normally for any unforeseen event. • If the travel advisory is issued before the date you leave for your trip, TuGo will cover any emergency sickness or injury related expenses that are completely unrelated to the reason for the travel advisory/warning. I hope this answers your query! Feel free to reach out to us if you have any other questions. You can also connect with our customer service team toll-free at 1-855-929-8846 or by email at [email protected] . Safe travels, Shweta

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Jul 21, 2023

7 min. read

Canada has four travel advisory risk levels that can be applied to any country, territory or region. It’s important to know what they are and what the security conditions are for your specific travel destination.

Checking before you book, just before you leave and even after your departure means you’ll be well-informed about any important precautions that you should take.

The Canadian Government will often issue destination-specific travel advisories that provide valuable information that could affect your safety when you’re travelling abroad.

Advisories can be triggered for a variety of reasons including, but not limited to:

Health emergencies like Zika, Ebola and most recently, COVID-19

Terrorist threats

Civil unrest or political instability

War or military coups

Natural disasters like earthquakes, hurricanes, wildfires, etc.

Levels of travel advisories. 

Four different risk levels of travel advisories: Level 1 - Exercise normal security precautions. This is the lowest level advisory with no significant safety concerns. You’re advised to use common sense and take similar precautions to those you would in Canada.

Level 2 - Exercise a high degree of caution.

When travelling to locations under this advisory, you should be cautious at all times because the government has identified safety and security concerns. This doesn’t mean that you should completely avoid travelling to these countries. Just be alert, plan ahead and be sure to monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities if anything concerning is reported or happens.

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 may be compromised.

Level 3 - Avoid non-essential travel.

Destinations placed under this advisory have specific safety and security concerns that could put you at risk and you should reconsider your need to travel to them. If you are already there, consider leaving if it’s still safe to do so.

Level 4 - Avoid all travel.

There is an extreme risk to your personal safety and security and you should not travel to this area. If you’re already in the country under this advisory, you should leave as soon as it is safe to do so.

How travel advisories affect your travel insurance.

Canadians should always consider purchasing travel insurance and never leave home without any coverage. It’s also important to understand the significance of travel advisories and how they may influence your coverage.

When you’re covered.

Depending on the travel insurance plan you’ve purchased, your policy may cover medical costs if:

There wasn’t a Level 3 or 4 travel advisory in place before your departure date

There wasn’t a Level 3 or 4 travel advisory in place for your destination at the time of your departure

The sickness or injury-related expenses you’re seeking compensation for are not connected to the reason for the travel advisory

Example:  If you break your ankle and need care, you will still be covered even if there is a Level 3 travel advisory in place due to COVID-19.

The travel advisory was issued after the date you left for your trip

You weren’t participating in or voluntarily exposing yourself to a risk (like a riot or civil disorder)

When you’re not covered.

The two highest risk levels of travel advisories, “avoid non-essential travel” and “avoid all travel,” can affect your travel insurance, depending on when the travel advisory comes into effect.

Most travel insurance companies may not cover your claim if:

• At the effective date of your policy, an official travel advisory was issued by the Canadian Government stating “avoid non-essential travel” or “avoid all travel” for the country, region or city you’re travelling to.

Staying safe and connected.

What’s great about travel is it gives us a chance to get away from it all and just disconnect – even for a short period of time. But by taking a few precautions ahead of time, you’ll be able to truly relax, with confidence, knowing you’re protected.

When it’s safe to travel again, be sure to remember the following:

Before you leave.  Make sure to  register with Global Affairs Canada . This ensures the government knows your whereabouts if something goes wrong, and they can inform you if there’s an emergency back home. Registration is free at  Registration of Canadians Abroad .

Keep tabs on travel advisories.  Refer to the travel advisories page on the  government site  for up-to-date travel advice and information.

Have additional questions?  Connect with an expert  CAA Travel Consultant  for assistance.

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These Countries Are On Canada's Do Not Travel List & Here's What You Need To Know About Them

Here's what the advisory means.👇

A person pulls a suitcase. Right: A plane takes off from Toronto Pearson Airport.

Canada has issued and updated multiple travel advisories in recent days, providing guidance for Canadians travelling abroad in several different countries.

What you may not know, however, is that Canada also has a list of countries that it advises residents to avoid all travel to because their safety and security could be at risk.

According to the Government of Canada, travel advisories give residents official information and advice on situations in other places that could affect their well-being, including when security or health conditions in a destination have changed.

There are four kinds of risk levels that the advisories are sorted by; level one, which advises Canadians to take normal precautions, level two, which advises taking a high degree of caution, level three, which advises against non-essential travel, and level four, the highest level, which warns Canadians to avoid any and all travel to a country.

"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," the government website says.

While you may be aware of some countries on Canada's do not travel list, others may come as a surprise. Here are eight countries currently on the do not travel list and why Canadians should avoid them.

Details: The Canadian government advises against all travel to Venezuela due to a significant level of violent crime in the country, as well as unstable political and economic situations and a "decline in basic living conditions, including shortages of medication, gasoline and water."

The country has one of the world's highest homicide rates, according to the government. It warns that violent crimes are particularly frequent in the capital, Caracas, and they occur against both visitors and locals alike.

Gang and organized criminal activity is also rampant in the country.

Worsening the situation are power outages, which are said to be common in many parts of the nation.

During these outages, communication and transportation can be impacted, and the government warns that rioting, fighting and theft can occur.

Find out more

Burkina Faso

\u201c#DYK? Our #TravelAdvice and Advisories site provides key information on your #destination, including issues that may affect #WomenTravellers. It\u2019s always best to know before you go! \n \nhttps://t.co/OwjPApExmd\u201d — Travel.gc.ca (@Travel.gc.ca) 1672945224

Details: Canadians are advised to avoid all travel to the West African country Burkina Faso due to the risk of violence amid an evolving political situation.

The country experienced a coup d'etat , or a sudden violent overthrow of government, in Ouagadougou (the country's capital) in September 2022, when the president of the transition in Burkina Faso was removed from office by soldiers.

Canada warns that demonstrations in the capital are likely and that even peaceful protests can turn violent.

Kidnapping is also a threat in northern areas of the country, the government warns.

The threat of terrorism persists too, with possible targets including tourist attractions, restaurants, shopping centres, hotels and other sites visitors may frequent.

Central African Republic 

Details: All travel to the Central African Republic should be avoided due to "extremely unstable" security conditions and violent crime, the Canadian government says.

A nationwide curfew is currently in effect in the country amid the situation. According to the goverment, armed groups, who are present throughout the country, are responsible for the deaths of thousands of people since 2012, including humanitarian workers.

Canada warns that security forces aren't able to guarantee the safety of civilians, particularly outside of the country's capital, Bangui.

Demonstrations may also occur in the country and can easily turn violent.

Details: Canadians have been advised to avoid all travel to Yemen since May 2009, due to "ongoing armed conflict, terrorist attacks, and kidnapping."

According to the Government of Canada, an ongoing civil war in the country has created a "highly unstable" security situation.

"If you attempt to travel to Yemen, you expose yourself to grave risk. In addition to threats from war, terrorism and kidnapping are ongoing threats."

In addition to this, the feds warn that their ability to provide consular services to Canadians in the country is "extremely limited."

Details: Canadians have been advised by the government to avoid all travel to Haiti due to the threat of kidnappings, gang violence and "the potential for civil unrest throughout the country."

The security situation in the country is described as "volatile."

According to NPR , Haiti has had no president since its last one, Jovenel Moïse, was assassinated in 2021.

The country is currently experiencing shortages of fuel, water and food, and "access to cash and commodities of all kinds" is limited.

Kidnappings are said to be common in the country. Since September 2020, hundreds of Canadians and other foreign nationals have been abducted, according to the government.

\u201c#DYK? If you are a Canadian abroad in need of emergency #ConsularAssistance, you can now contact our Emergency Watch and Response Centre through #Telegram and #WhatsApp. \n\nFind out how you can request consular assistance: https://t.co/zOE9ERn9xi\u201d — Travel.gc.ca (@Travel.gc.ca) 1673550019

Details: With the exception of the capital, Niamey, Canadians are warned to avoid all travel to the West African country Niger due to the risk of terrorism and kidnapping.

Travelling outside of the capital is not advised, particularly after dark. According to the government, nighttime attacks on tourists have occurred in most parts of of the country.

Kidnapping is a risk throughout the country.

"There’s a high threat of kidnapping from terrorist groups throughout Niger. This includes the capital, Niamey," says the advisory.

Terrorist groups have also kidnapped foreign nationals.

Details: "Avoid all travel to Somalia," warns the Canadians government. "If you are currently in Somalia despite this advisory, you should leave immediately."

The security situation in Somalia has been described as "volatile," amid an unpredictable political situation and an existing threat of terrorism.

The rule of law in the country is said to be "virtually non-existent."

Canada's advisory also warns that travellers to the country will not be able to receive consular assistance if in distress as there is no resident Canadian government office in Somalia.

Details: Canadians are advised against travelling to Libya due to "armed conflict, a high risk of terrorist attacks, an unpredictable political situation and a high crime rate."

Particularly, there is a high threat of terrorism and kidnapping in the country, with foreigners being common targets.

Demonstrations, which take place throughout the country, can turn violent and cause disruptions to transportation, the government warns.

Those in the country are advised to leave by commercial means as soon as it's safe to do so.

This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Trinidad and Tobago travel advice

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

Last updated: August 26, 2024 09:22 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, trinidad and tobago - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Trinidad and Tobago due to violent crime.

Regional Advisory - Avoid non-essential travel

• Beetham Estate Gardens
• Cocorite (north of Western Main Road)
• Downtown Port of Spain (east of Charlotte street, south and west of Picadilly street, and north of Independence Square)

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Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft, occurs in Trinidad and Tobago. Theft can occur at traffic lights or in slow moving traffic.

• Avoid deserted beaches and isolated areas
• Don’t walk alone at night
• Don’t carry large amounts of cash or show signs of affluence
• Keep your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
• Never leave personal belongings, such as money, credit cards, cell phones and other electronics, unattended
• If possible, stay in hotels or villas with guards and security cameras
• Drive with windows closed and doors locked

Violent crime

Violent crime occurs in Trinidad and Tobago, including:

• armed robberies
• carjackings
• sexual assaults
• kidnappings
• home invasions

Gang-related attacks, gun violence and drug-related crimes occur in Trinidad and Tobago. Weapons have been used on victims who refuse to cooperate.

There is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time and becoming the victim of gun-related crossfire throughout the country, even during the day. Emergency services’ response may vary.

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially around cruise ship docks in Port of Spain and in tourist destinations
• Don’t walk alone, especially at night
• Ensure that your windows and doors are securely locked
• If armed criminals threaten you, cooperate and don't resist

There are robbery rings operating in the country. Some use online dating applications and social media platforms to lure potential victims and schedule meet-ups to assault and rob them. Incidents against foreigners have occurred.

• Be cautious if using online dating apps
• Avoid meetings in isolated locations
• Don’t bring new acquaintances to your accommodations
• Share your plans with a family member or friend, including specifics about who you are meeting and where

Groups with terrorist connections are known to operate in Trinidad and Tobago.

Targets may include:

• public gatherings and festivals, such as sporting and cultural events
• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• diplomatic missions
• public areas and tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, and hotels

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places and exercise caution.

Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud occurs frequently.

When using your debit or credit card:

• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Demonstrations

Demonstrations and labour strikes occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to essential services, traffic, and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Fraudulent police officers

Individuals posing as police officers have been involved in armed robberies and home invasions.

If you encounter police officers:

• ask for the officer’s name, badge and patrol car number
• try to cooperate by following the instructions of police to avoid escalation
• ask for a clear explanation of the offence

Spiked food and drinks

There are reports of criminals adding drugs into items that could put you at risk of sexual assault or robbery. Items include food and drinks.

Incidents are most likely to occur:

• in nightclubs
• in bars and restaurants
• on public transportation, including taxis

While you’re in Trinidad and Tobago:

• be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers
• order drinks in sealed bottles or cans instead of in plastic cups

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment, verbal abuse or sexual assault.

In some cases, the victims are drugged before being assaulted.

Reported incidents have occurred in unregistered taxis.

• Always remain vigilant
• Do not accept offers of transportation from strangers
• Avoid dark alleys and isolated areas
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Avoid unattended beaches
• Don’t hitchhike or pick up hitchhikers

Advice for women travellers

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous.

In certain areas, sharks pose a risk to swimmers.

Rescue services may not be consistent with Canadian standards. Not all beaches have lifeguards or warning flags to warn of unsafe conditions, including riptides.

• Don’t swim alone, after dark or outside marked areas
• Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
• Only undertake scuba diving and other water activities with a well-established company
• Monitor weather warnings
• Follow the instructions and warnings of local authorities
• Check that your travel insurance covers accidents related to recreational activities

Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities can be dangerous.

Tour operators may not meet Canadian safety standards.

If you intend to participate in adventure tourism activities:

• share your itinerary with a friend or family member
• stay on marked trails and consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company
• obtain detailed information on your activity and the environment in which you will be setting out
• buy travel insurance that covers incidents related to these types of recreational activities
• monitor weather conditions and other possible hazards
• ensure that you have proper equipment and bring sufficient water

Water shortages

Water shortages occur regularly in Trinidad and Tobago. They are more frequent during the dry season, from January to May, and can occur for extended periods of time.

• Keep a sufficient supply of water on hand
• Monitor local media for the latest information

Road safety

Major roadways are generally reliable. However, robberies and carjackings along the East-West Corridor to and from Piarco Airport and Port of Spain continue to be reported despite an increased police presence.

If travelling along this route:

• exercise extreme caution
• do not leave valuables within reach or in plain sight
• avoid stopping for minor mechanical issues, including flat tires

Road conditions

Road conditions are good on highways on both islands.

Rural roads are generally narrow, poorly maintained and congested.

At night, many roads are unlit and shoulders are unmarked.

When driving after dark:

• familiarize yourself with your itinerary before you leave
• be extra cautious

Driving habits

Drivers may not necessarily respect traffic laws and are known to stop abruptly. Drinking and driving is a concern, especially during festivities.

Public transportation

Private taxis and mini-buses called maxi-taxis are shared transportation and cash-based. Drivers stop frequently along their routes to pick up and drop off passengers. They should be avoided.

Ride-sharing apps are not always reliable. You should plan for an alternative transportation method.

You should reserve transportation services through official taxi companies such as those associated with major hotels or the airport. Confirm the fare in advance.

Pirates commit attacks, kidnappings and armed robberies against ships in coastal waters. Travellers should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report – International Maritime Bureau Piracy Reporting Centre

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 authorities of Trinidad and Tobago. 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 six months beyond the intended stay.

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: not required for stays up to 90 days Business visa: not required for stays up to 30 days Student visa: required

Upon arrival, tourists receive a stamp indicating the authorized stay period.

• eVisas – Ministry of National Security
• Business visas – Ministry of National Security

Other entry requirements

You must show a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

• 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
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 26 August, 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. 

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.

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.

  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.

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.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

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 a risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is recommended depending on your itinerary.
• Contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites.

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.

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. 

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 level of risk may vary by:

The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause 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.

Learn more:

Insect bite and pest prevention 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.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

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.  

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Medical facilities are below Canadian standards.

Public hospitals offer free medical care, but they may be under-resourced and lack medical supplies and equipment.

Private hospital care is expensive and requires immediate cash payment.

Emergency services are available, but response times can be slow, especially in rural areas.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

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

• Health and safety outside Canada
• Older travellers

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

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

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Trinidad and Tobago are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Trinidad and Tobago to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Trinidadian and Tobagonian authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

2SLGBTQI+ persons

2SLGBTQI+ persons have been harassed and verbally and/or physically abused.

Discriminatory laws against 2SLGBTQI+ persons exist in Trinidad and Tobago.

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

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Trinidad and Tobago.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Dual citizens

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. The convention applies between Canada and Trinidad and Tobago.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Trinidad and Tobago, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Trinidadian and Tobagonian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Trinidad and Tobago 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.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Traffic drives on the left. Most vehicles are right-hand drive, but left-hand-drive vehicles are permitted and identified as such.

All children below the age of 5 must be buckled into a car seat or a booster seat in the back seat of a vehicle.

Visitors aged 17 or older are allowed to drive for 90 days with a valid Canadian driver’s licence. If you plan to stay beyond 90 days, you should apply for an International Driving Permit prior to arrival in Trinidad and Tobago.

International Driving Permit

Drinking and driving

Persons found guilty of drinking and driving face heavy fines and/or jail sentences. Police use roadblocks to check for drunk drivers and breathalysers to test drivers on the spot.

Death penalty

Trinidad and Tobago retains the mandatory death penalty for persons convicted of murder, although the law is not always enforced.

Camouflage clothing

It is illegal for civilians to wear army or camouflage clothing.

The currency of Trinidad and Tobago is the Trinidad and Tobago dollar (TTD).

You can convert Canadian currency at all major banks or currency exchange bureaux in Trinidad and Tobago.

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Trinidad and Tobago. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information.

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services. You could face serious safety risks during a hurricane.

While hurricanes rarely hit Trinidad and Tobago directly, tropical storms, and hurricanes passing to the north of the country, can cause heavy rains leading to severe flooding and landslides.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• 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
• Severe storms outside Canada
• Large-scale emergencies outside Canada
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings – U.S. National Hurricane Center

Earthquakes

Trinidad and Tobago is located in an active seismic zone.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management and the University of the West Indies’ Seismic Research Centre provide information and advice in the event of an earthquake.

• Alerts and more information about seismic activity – Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management
• Earthquakes – What to Do?

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 999
• emergency health services (provided by National Emergency Ambulance): 811
• Tourism Policing Unit, located at Crown Point Police Station, 1-868-639-0020
• fire and alternate ambulance services: 990
• Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management: 511
• Tobago Emergency Management Agency: 211

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in Trinidad and Tobago, in Port of Spain, 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.

Samantha Putterman, PolitiFact Samantha Putterman, PolitiFact

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• Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/fact-checking-warnings-from-democrats-about-project-2025-and-donald-trump

Fact-checking warnings from Democrats about Project 2025 and Donald Trump

This fact check originally appeared on PolitiFact .

Project 2025 has a starring role in this week’s Democratic National Convention.

And it was front and center on Night 1.

WATCH: Hauling large copy of Project 2025, Michigan state Sen. McMorrow speaks at 2024 DNC

“This is Project 2025,” Michigan state Sen. Mallory McMorrow, D-Royal Oak, said as she laid a hardbound copy of the 900-page document on the lectern. “Over the next four nights, you are going to hear a lot about what is in this 900-page document. Why? Because this is the Republican blueprint for a second Trump term.”

Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, has warned Americans about “Trump’s Project 2025” agenda — even though former President Donald Trump doesn’t claim the conservative presidential transition document.

“Donald Trump wants to take our country backward,” Harris said July 23 in Milwaukee. “He and his extreme Project 2025 agenda will weaken the middle class. Like, we know we got to take this seriously, and can you believe they put that thing in writing?”

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Harris’ running mate, has joined in on the talking point.

“Don’t believe (Trump) when he’s playing dumb about this Project 2025. He knows exactly what it’ll do,” Walz said Aug. 9 in Glendale, Arizona.

Trump’s campaign has worked to build distance from the project, which the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, led with contributions from dozens of conservative groups.

Much of the plan calls for extensive executive-branch overhauls and draws on both long-standing conservative principles, such as tax cuts, and more recent culture war issues. It lays out recommendations for disbanding the Commerce and Education departments, eliminating certain climate protections and consolidating more power to the president.

Project 2025 offers a sweeping vision for a Republican-led executive branch, and some of its policies mirror Trump’s 2024 agenda, But Harris and her presidential campaign have at times gone too far in describing what the project calls for and how closely the plans overlap with Trump’s campaign.

PolitiFact researched Harris’ warnings about how the plan would affect reproductive rights, federal entitlement programs and education, just as we did for President Joe Biden’s Project 2025 rhetoric. Here’s what the project does and doesn’t call for, and how it squares with Trump’s positions.

Are Trump and Project 2025 connected?

To distance himself from Project 2025 amid the Democratic attacks, Trump wrote on Truth Social that he “knows nothing” about it and has “no idea” who is in charge of it. (CNN identified at least 140 former advisers from the Trump administration who have been involved.)

The Heritage Foundation sought contributions from more than 100 conservative organizations for its policy vision for the next Republican presidency, which was published in 2023.

Project 2025 is now winding down some of its policy operations, and director Paul Dans, a former Trump administration official, is stepping down, The Washington Post reported July 30. Trump campaign managers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita denounced the document.

WATCH: A look at the Project 2025 plan to reshape government and Trump’s links to its authors

However, Project 2025 contributors include a number of high-ranking officials from Trump’s first administration, including former White House adviser Peter Navarro and former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson.

A recently released recording of Russell Vought, a Project 2025 author and the former director of Trump’s Office of Management and Budget, showed Vought saying Trump’s “very supportive of what we do.” He said Trump was only distancing himself because Democrats were making a bogeyman out of the document.

Project 2025 wouldn’t ban abortion outright, but would curtail access

The Harris campaign shared a graphic on X that claimed “Trump’s Project 2025 plan for workers” would “go after birth control and ban abortion nationwide.”

The plan doesn’t call to ban abortion nationwide, though its recommendations could curtail some contraceptives and limit abortion access.

What’s known about Trump’s abortion agenda neither lines up with Harris’ description nor Project 2025’s wish list.

Project 2025 says the Department of Health and Human Services Department should “return to being known as the Department of Life by explicitly rejecting the notion that abortion is health care.”

It recommends that the Food and Drug Administration reverse its 2000 approval of mifepristone, the first pill taken in a two-drug regimen for a medication abortion. Medication is the most common form of abortion in the U.S. — accounting for around 63 percent in 2023.

If mifepristone were to remain approved, Project 2025 recommends new rules, such as cutting its use from 10 weeks into pregnancy to seven. It would have to be provided to patients in person — part of the group’s efforts to limit access to the drug by mail. In June, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected a legal challenge to mifepristone’s FDA approval over procedural grounds.

WATCH: Trump’s plans for health care and reproductive rights if he returns to White House The manual also calls for the Justice Department to enforce the 1873 Comstock Act on mifepristone, which bans the mailing of “obscene” materials. Abortion access supporters fear that a strict interpretation of the law could go further to ban mailing the materials used in procedural abortions, such as surgical instruments and equipment.

The plan proposes withholding federal money from states that don’t report to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention how many abortions take place within their borders. The plan also would prohibit abortion providers, such as Planned Parenthood, from receiving Medicaid funds. It also calls for the Department of Health and Human Services to ensure that the training of medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, omits abortion training.

The document says some forms of emergency contraception — particularly Ella, a pill that can be taken within five days of unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy — should be excluded from no-cost coverage. The Affordable Care Act requires most private health insurers to cover recommended preventive services, which involves a range of birth control methods, including emergency contraception.

Trump has recently said states should decide abortion regulations and that he wouldn’t block access to contraceptives. Trump said during his June 27 debate with Biden that he wouldn’t ban mifepristone after the Supreme Court “approved” it. But the court rejected the lawsuit based on standing, not the case’s merits. He has not weighed in on the Comstock Act or said whether he supports it being used to block abortion medication, or other kinds of abortions.

Project 2025 doesn’t call for cutting Social Security, but proposes some changes to Medicare

“When you read (Project 2025),” Harris told a crowd July 23 in Wisconsin, “you will see, Donald Trump intends to cut Social Security and Medicare.”

The Project 2025 document does not call for Social Security cuts. None of its 10 references to Social Security addresses plans for cutting the program.

Harris also misleads about Trump’s Social Security views.

In his earlier campaigns and before he was a politician, Trump said about a half-dozen times that he’s open to major overhauls of Social Security, including cuts and privatization. More recently, in a March 2024 CNBC interview, Trump said of entitlement programs such as Social Security, “There’s a lot you can do in terms of entitlements, in terms of cutting.” However, he quickly walked that statement back, and his CNBC comment stands at odds with essentially everything else Trump has said during the 2024 presidential campaign.

Trump’s campaign website says that not “a single penny” should be cut from Social Security. We rated Harris’ claim that Trump intends to cut Social Security Mostly False.

Project 2025 does propose changes to Medicare, including making Medicare Advantage, the private insurance offering in Medicare, the “default” enrollment option. Unlike Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans have provider networks and can also require prior authorization, meaning that the plan can approve or deny certain services. Original Medicare plans don’t have prior authorization requirements.

The manual also calls for repealing health policies enacted under Biden, such as the Inflation Reduction Act. The law enabled Medicare to negotiate with drugmakers for the first time in history, and recently resulted in an agreement with drug companies to lower the prices of 10 expensive prescriptions for Medicare enrollees.

Trump, however, has said repeatedly during the 2024 presidential campaign that he will not cut Medicare.

Project 2025 would eliminate the Education Department, which Trump supports

The Harris campaign said Project 2025 would “eliminate the U.S. Department of Education” — and that’s accurate. Project 2025 says federal education policy “should be limited and, ultimately, the federal Department of Education should be eliminated.” The plan scales back the federal government’s role in education policy and devolves the functions that remain to other agencies.

Aside from eliminating the department, the project also proposes scrapping the Biden administration’s Title IX revision, which prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. It also would let states opt out of federal education programs and calls for passing a federal parents’ bill of rights similar to ones passed in some Republican-led state legislatures.

Republicans, including Trump, have pledged to close the department, which gained its status in 1979 within Democratic President Jimmy Carter’s presidential Cabinet.

In one of his Agenda 47 policy videos, Trump promised to close the department and “to send all education work and needs back to the states.” Eliminating the department would have to go through Congress.

What Project 2025, Trump would do on overtime pay

In the graphic, the Harris campaign says Project 2025 allows “employers to stop paying workers for overtime work.”

The plan doesn’t call for banning overtime wages. It recommends changes to some Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, regulations and to overtime rules. Some changes, if enacted, could result in some people losing overtime protections, experts told us.

The document proposes that the Labor Department maintain an overtime threshold “that does not punish businesses in lower-cost regions (e.g., the southeast United States).” This threshold is the amount of money executive, administrative or professional employees need to make for an employer to exempt them from overtime pay under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

In 2019, the Trump’s administration finalized a rule that expanded overtime pay eligibility to most salaried workers earning less than about $35,568, which it said made about 1.3 million more workers eligible for overtime pay. The Trump-era threshold is high enough to cover most line workers in lower-cost regions, Project 2025 said.

The Biden administration raised that threshold to $43,888 beginning July 1, and that will rise to $58,656 on Jan. 1, 2025. That would grant overtime eligibility to about 4 million workers, the Labor Department said.

It’s unclear how many workers Project 2025’s proposal to return to the Trump-era overtime threshold in some parts of the country would affect, but experts said some would presumably lose the right to overtime wages.

Other overtime proposals in Project 2025’s plan include allowing some workers to choose to accumulate paid time off instead of overtime pay, or to work more hours in one week and fewer in the next, rather than receive overtime.

Trump’s past with overtime pay is complicated. In 2016, the Obama administration said it would raise the overtime to salaried workers earning less than $47,476 a year, about double the exemption level set in 2004 of $23,660 a year.

But when a judge blocked the Obama rule, the Trump administration didn’t challenge the court ruling. Instead it set its own overtime threshold, which raised the amount, but by less than Obama.

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