Timor-Leste Crime Rate & Safety
Homicide statistics, crime trends, and travel safety for Timor-Leste
US State Department Travel Advisory
Exercise Increased Caution
Updated May 21, 2026
Timor-Leste recorded 4.1 intentional homicides per 100,000 people in 2015, a rate that is moderate by global standards. That places Timor-Leste #82 of 195 countries by homicide rate, compared with the Asia average of 2.0 per 100,000 and a world average of 5.2. Homicide rates have fallen 16% over the past decade (from 4.8 in 2005). For travelers, the US State Department currently rates Timor-Leste at Level 2 of 4: Exercise Increased Caution.
Homicide Rate
4.1 /100k
Safety Rank
#114 of 195
Travel Advisory
Level 2 of 4
Data Year
2015
Homicide Rate Trend (2004-2015)
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people. Homicide rates have fallen 16% over the past decade (from 4.8 in 2005). Source: UNODC via World Bank.
How Timor-Leste Compares
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people, latest available year per country.
Safety for Travelers
Summary of the current US State Department advisory for Timor-Leste:
There was no change to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise Increased Caution in Timor-Leste due to risk of unrest and crime . Read the entire Travel Advisory. Advisory summary Police in Timor-Leste sometimes use force and tear gas against protestors. Stone throwing attacks on vehicles can occur during gang conflicts and periods of unrest. Sex-based violence and sexual harassment are common in Timor-Leste. If you decide to travel to Timor-Leste: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S.
Level 1
Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2
Exercise Increased Caution
Level 3
Reconsider Travel
Level 4
Do Not Travel
Safety Guidance for Timor-Leste
Practical safety information for visitors, from US State Department country information (last updated July 18, 2025).
Crime
Pick-pocketing, purse snatching, residential and automobile break-ins, and theft occur, especially in Dili. These crimes often happen in recreational areas and facilities frequented by foreigners. Victims of crime who resist may face physical violence by perpetrators. Stone-throwing attacks on vehicles can occur during gang conflicts and periods of civil unrest. Avoid travel at night or alone in unfamiliar areas. Women should avoid traveling or taking taxis alone, especially at night. Women walking or exercising alone in Dili have reported harassment, indecent exposure, and groping incidents. See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.
Technology Usage Abroad
Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, or damaged anywhere in the world. Before traveling abroad, it is best to keep all software (operating system and apps) updated. If possible, use a virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi. GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety consideration. Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.
Victims of Crime
Report crimes to the local police at 112 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +670-7723-1328. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . We can: Help you find appropriate medical care Assist you in reporting a crime to the police Contact relatives or friends with your written consent Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home Replace a stolen or lost passport
Domestic Violence
U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.
Tourism
Outside of a small number of PADI-certified dive shops, no formal tourism industry infrastructure is in place. Tourists are considered to be participating in activities at their own risk. Emergency response and appropriate medical treatment is not available in-country. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .
About This Data
Homicide figures are intentional homicides per 100,000 people, compiled by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and published by the World Bank (indicator VC.IHR.PSRC.P5). Homicide is the most reliably comparable crime statistic across countries because definitions of other offences (assault, theft, robbery) vary widely between national legal systems and reporting practices.
Travel advisory levels are issued by the US Department of State and updated continuously. They reflect risks to travelers including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health, and natural disasters — not only crime rates. Countries report crime data with different lags; the most recent available year is shown for each metric.
Timor-Leste Population & Demographics
Population of 1,400,638, growth trends, economy, and more.
Crime & Safety in Neighboring Countries
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Timor-Leste safe to visit?
The US State Department rates Timor-Leste at Level 2 of 4 (Exercise Increased Caution). The homicide rate of 4.1 per 100,000 is moderate by global standards.
What is the crime rate in Timor-Leste?
Timor-Leste has an intentional homicide rate of 4.1 per 100,000 people (2015, World Bank/UNODC), ranking #82 of 195 countries.
What is the US travel advisory level for Timor-Leste?
Timor-Leste is currently at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. Advisory levels range from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel).
How does crime in Timor-Leste compare to other countries?
Timor-Leste's homicide rate of 4.1 per 100,000 is below the world average of 5.2 and above the Asia average of 2.0.