Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offences. Persons violating Uruguay's laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Uruguay are strict, and convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines. The Uruguayan Ministry of Livestock, Agriculture and Fisheries strictly enforces all regulations regarding hunting permits, as well as seasonal and numerical limits on game. Under Uruguayan law, seized weapons can only be returned after payment of a sum equivalent to the value of the property seized.
Hunters are also subject to stiff fines for practicing the sport without all appropriate permits.
Americans living in or visiting Uruguay are encouraged to register at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Montevideo and obtain updated information on travel and security within Uruguay. The U.S. Embassy is located at Lauro Muller 1776, tel. This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 28, 1999.