Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ). The answers provide information that supplements our list of services offered.

1. How can I prevent a sexual assault while travelling abroad?

2. What should I do if I am the victim of sexual assault abroad?

3. Should I report the incident to Canadian government officials? 

4. How can consular officials help?

5. What should I do if the offender is arrested?

6. What types of emergency financial assistance are provided by the Government of Canada to victims of violent crimes abroad?

1. How can I prevent a sexual assault while travelling abroad?

The following precautions are recommended:

• Consider investing in a self-defence course before going abroad.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Don’t allow yourself to be isolated with someone you don’t know or trust.
• If you are being followed in an urban area, cross to the opposite side of the street and head for the nearest open business or occupied dwelling.
• If you are in danger, use any means necessary to draw attention to the situation, such as shouting for help in the local language or activating a personal security alarm that emits a piercing sound.
• Never open your door to strangers.
• Never hitchhike or accept rides from strangers. Ask local hotels to recommend reputable taxi services and, whenever possible, double up with someone you know when travelling by cab.
• If you attend a party, go with a group of friends. Arrive together, watch out for one another, and leave together.
• Never accept food or drink from strangers. Hypnotic drugs may be present, putting you at risk of sexual assault. Do not leave a beverage unattended or accept a drink in an open container.
• For further advice, see our Physical Assault FAQ.

2. What should I do if I am the victim of sexual assault abroad?

Take the following steps as soon as possible:

• Contact the police and ensure that a police report is completed, even if you have simply been threatened with violence. The nearest Canadian government office abroad can assist you with this process.
• If you are unable to go to the police immediately, write down all the details you can recall about the attack and the attacker. If possible, have photographs taken of your injuries.
• Preserve evidence of the attack. Don’t bathe or brush your teeth.
• Seek medical assistance. Even with no physical injuries, it is important to determine the risks of sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy. If the assault was violent, do not assume that you are physically well; seek confirmation from a health care professional. See our Medical Matters FAQ for further advice.
• Make arrangements to contact family and friends back home to reassure them about your well-being, especially if you have been unable to contact them due to the assault.
• To help cope with the trauma, discuss the incident with family and friends or with a professional.

3. Should I report the incident to Canadian government officials?

Yes. Report the assault to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or contact our Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

4. How can consular officials help?

Canadian consular officials can:

• provide support in dealing with the emotional, social, medical, and legal consequences of the assault;
• assist in contacting relatives or friends;
• put you in contact with counselling services locally or in Canada;
• assist in meeting your basic safety needs; and
• request that local authorities conduct a proper investigation and lay charges if the assailant has been identified.

5. What should I do if the offender is arrested?

You may be required to give testimony and attend legal proceedings. As in Canada, legal proceedings may be prolonged.

6. What types of emergency financial assistance are provided by the Government of Canada to victims of violent crimes abroad?

See our Financial Assistance FAQ.