Bosnia and Herzegovina Travel Risk

Exercise increased caution in Bosnia and Herzegovina due to risk of crime, landmines, and terrorism.

• Recent unrest has been politically related. While it has not impacted tourists or members of the international community, there is a risk that bystanders can be affected.
• Review our Travel Guidance for Bosnia and Herzegovina to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

Crime

• Sarajevo has a high rate of property-related crime, including robberies, residential and vehicle break-ins, and theft.
• Petty crime is common, especially in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing.

Other

• Landmines and unexploded ordnance exist throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• While suspected hazardous areas are normally clearly marked, deaths from explosions have occurred as recently as August 2025.

Terrorism

• There is risk of terrorist violence, such as terrorist attacks and other activity in the Balkans region, including Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Visit the U.S. Department of State's Bosnia and Herzegovina country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Travel disruption

The border crossing at Gradiška has been relocated to a new facility. Travellers should plan ahead and check local advice before crossing by car.

The European Union’s (EU) new Entry/Exit System (EES) is now being implemented across the Schengen area. The EES may take each passenger extra time, so it is important to be prepared to wait longer than usual at EU country borders and allow more time for immigration controls if travelling to and from the Schengen area.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Terrorist attacks in Bosnia and Herzegovina cannot be ruled out.

Previous attacks have included firearms attacks on government, law enforcement interests and the public. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners.

Political situation

Public protests occur from time to time and can cause traffic disruption. Protests are normally peaceful. There is a risk of violent incidents linked to locally controversial issues, usually from the conflict of the 1990s.

There has been an increase in anti-UK rhetoric from some politicians in the Republika Srpska (one of the entities that makes up the State of Bosnia and Herzegovina). This could translate into wider anti-UK sentiment. Monitor local media so you can avoid planned political demonstrations and move away if you see protestors gathering.

Risk level

Bosnia and Herzegovina - Exercise a high degree of caution

Exercise a high degree of caution in Bosnia and Herzegovina due to crime and the risk of unmarked landmines and unexploded ordnance in rural and isolated mountainous areas.

Landmines

Unmarked landmines and unexploded ordnance continue to pose a risk, particularly in isolated mountainous areas and in the countryside.

• Stay on main roads and paved surfaces
• Avoid abandoned houses and buildings
• Travel only during daylight hours
• Do not touch war relics and unknown items. Report these to local authorities

Landmines - Bosnia and Herzegovina Mine Action Centre

Crime

Petty Crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs, particularly in large urban centres such as Sarajevo, Banja Luka, Tuzla and Mostar. Criminals often target foreigners in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation.

Home and vehicle break-ins are common, particularly in Sarajevo and on Trebevic mountain. Foreigners have been targeted by thieves in Trebević.

• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Avoid showing signs of affluence, such as jewellery, and carrying large sums of cash
• Avoid isolated and poorly lit areas after dark

Violent Crime

Organized crime is prevalent in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Random acts of armed violence occur as a result, particularly in Sarajevo. Though foreigners are rarely targeted, they are advised to exercise caution as there is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time, such as in nightclubs and cafés late at night and in the early morning hours.

波黑风险等级为蓝色（低风险）