Travel Plans? Notify The Us Gov

If you're a US citizen, it's important to let the US government know you are travelling by enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This will allow you to receive alerts and be located in an emergency. You should also check your passport expiration date and renew it if necessary, as well as checking the Travel Advisories for your intended destination. If you plan to drive while abroad, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP). It's also worth looking into Trusted Traveler Programs like TSA Precheck and Global Entry, which can help you get through airport security faster.

Enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

Enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a crucial step for U.S. citizens planning to travel abroad. This free program offered by the U.S. Government provides travelers with up-to-date safety and security information, helping them stay informed and prepared for potential crises while overseas. By subscribing to STEP, travelers can receive alerts and be located in case of an emergency. This service ensures that the U.S. government can communicate vital information and provide assistance when needed.

STEP is especially important for travelers visiting high-risk areas or regions with travel advisories. The program offers valuable insights into specific destinations, including security concerns, potential crises, and other relevant issues. This information empowers travelers to make informed decisions and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

The enrollment process for STEP is straightforward. Travelers can sign up on the official website of the U.S. Department of State. They will be asked to provide personal information, such as their name, contact details, and travel plans. This information helps the U.S. government identify and locate its citizens in case of an emergency, such as a natural disaster, political unrest, or a global pandemic.

Additionally, STEP enrollees can opt to receive email alerts and updates about their destination countries. These alerts cover a range of topics, from security threats and health risks to emergency messages and travel warnings. By staying informed, travelers can proactively adjust their plans, seek assistance, or evacuate if necessary.

Another benefit of enrolling in STEP is the ability to connect with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. These diplomatic missions provide essential services to U.S. citizens abroad, including emergency assistance, passport services, and legal help. By enrolling in STEP, travelers can easily locate and contact the nearest embassy or consulate, ensuring they have a support system in place before their trip.

In conclusion, enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a simple yet vital step for U.S. citizens traveling internationally. The program offers peace of mind by providing critical safety and security information, alerts, and emergency assistance. By subscribing to STEP, travelers can stay informed, be better prepared, and receive timely support from the U.S. government while abroad. This service is particularly valuable for travelers visiting regions with security concerns or travel advisories.

Check visa requirements

When travelling to the US, citizens of foreign countries generally need to obtain a US visa. The type of visa is defined by US immigration law and relates to the purpose of your travel.

Nonimmigrant visas are for people who want to enter the US temporarily, for business, tourism, or a combination of both purposes. Examples of activities permitted with a visitor visa include:

• Consulting with business associates
• Attending a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference
• Negotiating a contract
• Visiting friends or relatives
• Participating in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations
• Participating in musical, sports, or similar events or contests as an amateur
• Enrolling in a short recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree (e.g. a two-day cooking class while on vacation)

Immigrant visas are for people who want to live permanently in the US. These visas are based on family ties, employment, adoption, special immigrant categories, and the diversity visa.

The US also has a Visa Waiver Program that enables citizens of participating countries to travel to the US for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa.

To find out what type of visa you need, you can use the Visa Wizard on the US Department of State website. You can also check the Visa Bulletin for information on the cut-off dates that govern visa availability in numerically limited visa categories.

Prepare for border security

Border security is a priority for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which works to prevent the illicit movement of weapons, drugs, contraband, and people, while promoting lawful entry and exit, and lawful trade. Here are some key points to prepare for border security when traveling to the U.S.:

• The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is the nation's first unified border agency, combining customs, immigration, border security, and agricultural protection. They enforce all applicable U.S. laws, including those against illegal immigration, narcotics smuggling, and illegal importation. CBP officers and agents are highly trained law enforcement personnel who apprehend over 1,000 individuals each day for suspected violations of U.S. laws.
• Make sure you have all the necessary documents, such as a valid passport, and any required visas or permits. Check the expiration dates and renew your passport well in advance if needed. Some documents may require authentication before you can use them abroad.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and be located in an emergency while abroad. This program provides up-to-date safety and security information and helps the government reach you in an emergency.
• Check the Travel Advisories for your intended destination. These advisories provide important information about safety, security, and entry and exit requirements for your destination.
• Familiarize yourself with customs regulations and prohibited items. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) provides information on what you can bring through airport security checkpoints. Additionally, the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service can provide guidance on animal health requirements if you're traveling with pets.
• Be prepared for security screenings at ports of entry. DHS monitors and operates 328 U.S. ports of entry, screening cargo and passengers arriving by air, land, and sea. CBP uses various techniques, including pre-screening passengers on international flights, to assure that global tourism remains safe.
• Consider enrolling in Trusted Traveler Programs, such as TSA Pre-Check, Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI. These programs provide modified screening for pre-approved members, facilitating faster and easier border crossings while allowing officers to focus on higher-risk travelers.
• Always follow the instructions and guidance provided by border officials and remain cooperative and compliant during security checks and screenings.

Know what to do in an emergency

Knowing what to do in an emergency while travelling is crucial. Here are some steps you can take to prepare for and handle emergency situations effectively:

Before Your Trip:

• Inform your loved ones about your travel plans: Share your holiday details with family and friends so they know your whereabouts in case of an emergency.
• Register your trip with Smartraveller or STEP: Sign up for the US government's Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and be easily located in an emergency. This program provides valuable emergency assistance and helps US citizens stay connected with their government when abroad.
• Obtain travel insurance: Travel insurance can provide essential financial coverage for unexpected costs, such as hospital expenses, medication, and additional accommodation or travel arrangements due to natural disasters or other emergencies. It may also assist with organising a family member to be with you if you're seriously ill and can even facilitate evacuation back to your home country if necessary.
• Know who to contact: Familiarise yourself with emergency contacts and procedures. Save important contacts in your phone, including the local emergency number, medical centres, hospitals, and the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. Keep their contact details with you at all times, along with your passport or ID. Stay informed about travel warnings and advisories for your destination, and avoid travelling to places with 'Do Not Travel' or 'Reconsider Your Need to Travel' warnings.
• Make copies of important documents: Make two copies of all your travel documents and leave one set with a trusted contact at home. This will help in case of loss or theft and can facilitate emergency assistance.

During an Emergency:

• Remain calm and seek help: If injured, go to the nearest doctor or hospital as soon as possible. Report any crimes to the local police as soon as you can.
• Follow instructions from authorities: In the event of a natural disaster, civil protest, or unrest, move to a safe location and comply with instructions from emergency services, police, or local authorities.
• Contact the US Embassy or Consulate: They can assist with translators, lawyers, and police if needed and help you get in touch with your family.
• Notify your travel insurance provider: Your travel insurance assistance team may be able to provide valuable advice and support during the emergency.
• Keep records: Keep all receipts and relevant documentation, including police and doctor's reports, accommodation receipts, and transport tickets. These will be essential for making insurance claims later.

After You Return Home:

• Submit insurance claims promptly: There is generally no time frame for submitting claims, but it is advisable to do so as soon as possible to avoid losing important documentation.
• Stay resilient: Unexpected emergencies can happen, but millions of travellers have safe and enjoyable experiences. Don't let fear deter you from exploring new destinations and creating memorable holidays.

Remember, being informed and prepared can significantly minimise potential loss and stress during emergencies while travelling.

Be aware of health and safety risks

Travelling can increase risks to your health and well-being, especially when visiting unfamiliar, distant, or remote areas. Taking the right precautions before your trip can reduce these risks and ensure you have a plan in place in case of injury or illness.

Environmental Risks

Travellers often experience abrupt and dramatic changes in environmental conditions, which may have detrimental effects on health and well-being. Travel may involve major changes in altitude, temperature, and humidity, as well as exposure to microbes, animals, and insects.

Ultraviolet Radiation from the Sun

Ultraviolet radiation from the sun can be harmful. Take precautions such as wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing.

Foodborne and Waterborne Health Risks

Traveller's diarrhoea and other food-related illnesses are common while travelling. Practise good personal hygiene and make informed choices about food and drink. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet, and before eating or preparing food. If clean water is not readily available, use disposable wipes or an alcohol-based hand sanitiser. Drink bottled water from a reliable source, and use bottled water to brush your teeth. Avoid ice cubes unless you know they are made from safe bottled water.

Intestinal Parasites

Intestinal parasites can be contracted through contaminated food or water. Be cautious of food that is cooked and then kept warm or at room temperature, such as buffets. Dry, packaged, and factory-sealed food is usually safer. Raw food can be risky, including fresh fruit and vegetables, salads, raw meat, and uncooked seafood.

Accidents and Injuries

Road traffic collisions are the most frequent cause of death among travellers. When abroad, be extremely attentive and careful on the roads. Know the regulations governing traffic and vehicle maintenance, and be aware of the state of the roads in the countries you are visiting. If renting a car, check the vehicle's tyres, seat belts, spare wheels, lights, and brakes. Know the informal rules of the road; in some countries, it is customary to sound the horn or flash the headlights before overtaking. Be vigilant in countries where they drive on the opposite side of the road. Do not drive after drinking alcohol, and always follow the speed limit.

Swimming and water sports can also pose risks. Drowning is a significant hazard, especially for children. Always ensure constant adult supervision of children in or near water. Impact injuries, particularly head and spinal injuries, can result from diving accidents. Check the depth of the water carefully before diving, and avoid diving or jumping into murky water. Avoid alcohol consumption before any activity in or near water.

Infectious Diseases

Depending on your destination, you may be exposed to various infectious diseases. In some cases, these can be prevented by vaccination. Check with your doctor or a travel clinic for the latest travel health advice and information on necessary vaccinations.

Mental Health

International travel can be stressful, and coping with high levels of stress may result in physical, social, and psychological problems. If you are prone to anxiety or stress, consider strategies to minimise travel-related stress, such as gathering information about your destination and mode of travel in advance. If you have a pre-existing mental health disorder, seek specific medical and psychological advice before your trip.

Frequently asked questions