Faith-Based Travel

Faith-based travel may include pilgrimages, service projects, mission work, and faith-based tours.  

Every year, many U.S. citizens safely take part in religious travel. However, there are considerations U.S. faith-based travelers should know before going. In some destinations, there are strict rules for religious activities. It can even be a crime to participate. Know the laws and conditions of the destination you wish to visit. Check the Local Laws and Customs  section in the Travel Guidance for your destination.

Visit the International Travel Checklist. Check our information on visa rules and local laws. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive safety and security alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate for your destination while you are abroad. It also helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.

Additional resources for faith-based travelers:  

• International Religious Freedom Reports  
• Human Rights Report  
• Hajj and Umrah Information  
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Consider these questions:  

• Does the organization have emergency plans if there is a crisis? A crisis may include local security threats or natural disasters. Crises may result in harm to or deaths of U.S. citizen travelers. 
• Are they familiar with the local laws and customs? Do they know local rules about religious expression? 
• Are they a member of the Overseas Security Advisory Council?   
• Are you volunteering with an orphanage?  Will you be working with children?  Familiarize yourself with the Department of State’s information on child trafficking. 
• If you are considering intercountry adoption, review guidance on the intercountry adoption pages. 

Remember, you are subject to local laws. 

Some destinations abroad may restrict religious expression. This may include restrictions on:  

• Public or private prayer  
• Wearing religious attire or symbols  
• Preaching in private or public  
• Speaking to others about your beliefs  
• Possessing religious material or images  
• Criticizing or questioning others’ religious beliefs  
• Visiting certain religious sites if you are female or not a member of the religion  
• Distributing religious literature  
• Participating in religious services or activities  
• Other religious practices  

These laws may be applied inconsistently to foreign visitors. Research the local laws and customs of your destination.  

You may run into problems while abroad. If you do, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate for your destination.  

Always carry the address and phone number of the U.S. embassy or consulate with you.