The U.S. Consulate at Istanbul informs U.S. citizens of an expected protest of undetermined size by Halk Cephesi at the Consulate General this morning, May 9. The Turkish National Police (TNP) will be setting up barricades on the street. At this time, the consular section expects to operate as usual.
Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations.
We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Turkey enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Regularly monitor the State Department’s website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution. Read the Country Specific Information for Turkey. For additional information, refer to the “Traveler’s Checklist” on the State Department’s website.
Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate for up-to-date information on travel restrictions. You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Follow us on Twitter and Facebook to have travel information at your fingertips.
The U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul is located at Üçşehitler Sokak No.2, 34460, Istinye, Sariyer, and is open 7:45 a.m.-4:30 p.m, tel: (90) (212) 335-9000. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance outside of business hours, the emergency after-hours number is+90-212-335-9000.
