There has been a dramatic deterioration of the country's physical infrastructure and basic security environment.
Urban crime remains a problem.
There is occasional official hostility to U.S. citizens and other expatriates, periodic shortages of basic items such as gasoline, a chronic shortage of medical supplies, high inflation, and in some areas, corruption and serious malnutrition. Visas should be obtained from an Embassy of the Democratic Republic of the Congo prior to arrival. Individuals who experience difficulty entering DROC with a visa issued overseas are asked to contact the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa. Overseas, inquiries should be made at the nearest DROC Embassy or Consulate. U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to register at the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa upon their arrival and to obtain updated information on travel and security within the Democratic Republic of the Congo.