Due to demonstrations planned to begin at 3 p.m. in the Boa Vista and downtown areas of Recife, the Consulate will be closing at 2 p.m. today, March 18, 2016, so that staff can avoid congestion on their transit home.  We recommend that all U.S. citizens avoid downtown Recife this afternoon.

U.S. citizens should avoid protests and areas where large gatherings may occur.  Even demonstrations or events intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence.  U.S. citizens in Brazil are urged to monitor local news reports and to plan their activities accordingly.

As always, we strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to and/or residing in Brazil enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at www.Travel.State.gov.  By enrolling in STEP, you will receive the latest security updates.  It also makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency.

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