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HomeInternational Travel HomeTips for Traveling Abroad

### Your Trip Abroad

### Your Trip Abroad

## 

**FOREWORD**

Whether you are traveling overseas for business, pleasure or study, the best way to ensure a carefree and relaxing trip is                                    to prevent problems before they happen. The more you learn about passports, visas, customs, immunizations, and other travel                                    basics, the less likely you are to have difficulties during your travels.

We have written this guide to help you organize and take a pleasant, trouble-free trip. In the back of the book, we refer                                    you to other sources of travel information covering such matters as customs regulations, agricultural restrictions, visa requirements,                                    U.S. embassy addresses, foreign country information, and more. For your convenience, the addresses of the U.S. passport agencies                                    are listed at the end of the pamphlet.

The Department of State in Washington, D.C., and its more than 250 U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide, as well as other                                    U.S. Government agencies, are ready and pleased to offer assistance whenever possible. This is your trip. Make it an enjoyable                                    one.

### YOUR TRIP ABROAD

There is much that you can do to prepare for your trip abroad, depending on where you are going, how long you are staying,                                    and your reasons for traveling.

**LEARN ABOUT THE COUNTRIES THAT YOU PLAN TO VISIT**

The following suggestions and sources may be useful:
                  - Read as much as possible about the countries in which you plan to travel. Informing yourself about a nation's history, culture,                                       customs and politics will make your stay more meaningful. Such information can be found in most libraries, bookstores and                                       tourist bureaus. Although English is spoken in many countries, it is a good idea to learn what you can of the language of                                       the country in which you will be traveling.
                  - Travel agents can provide brochures and tourist information about the countries that you wish to visit.
                  - Most international airlines can supply you with travel brochures about the countries that they serve. Many countries have                                       tourist information offices in main cities in the United States where you can obtain travel brochures and maps.
                  - Foreign embassies or consulates in the United States can provide up-to-date information on their countries. Addresses and                                       telephone numbers of the embassies of foreign governments are listed in the Congressional Directory, available at most public                                       libraries. In addition to their embassies, some countries also have consulates in major U.S. cities. Look for their addresses                                       in your local telephone directory, or find them in the publication, ***Foreign Consular Offices in the United States*** , available in many public libraries, or on the Internet http://www.state.gov
                  - The Department of State publishes ***Background Notes*** on countries worldwide. These are brief, factual pamphlets with information on each country's culture, history, geography,                                       economy, government, and current political situation. The ***Background Notes*** are available for approximately 170 countries. They often include a reading list, travel notes and maps. To purchase copies,                                       you can contact the **Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, or call (202) 512-1800** . Select issues are available from the **Department of State's home page on the Internet at**http://www.state.gov .
                  - The **Consular Information Program** provides pertinent information for travelers. The U.S. Department of State issues fact sheets, known as ***Consular Information Sheets* ,** on every country in the world. You should obtain the Department of State's ***Consular Information Sheet*** for any country that you will visit. The sheets contain information about crime and security conditions, areas of instability,                                       and other details pertaining to travel in a particular country.

The Department of State also issues ***Travel Warnings*** and ***Public Announcements*** . ***Travel Warnings*** are issued when the Department of State recommends deferral of travel by Americans to a country because of civil unrest,                                    dangerous conditions, terrorist activity and/or because the United States has no diplomatic relations with the country and                                    cannot assist an American citizen in distress. ***Public Announcements*** are issued as a means to disseminate information quickly about terrorist threats and other relatively short-term and/or transnational                                    conditions, which would pose significant risks to American travelers.

If the Department of State has issued a Travel Warning or Public Announcement for any country that you plan to visit, you                                    should obtain this information. Instructions on how to access the Consular Information Program follow.

**How to Access Consular Information Sheets, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements**

Consular Information Sheets, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements may be heard at any time by dialing the Office of Overseas                                    Citizens Services, American Citizens Services and Crisis Management, Bureau of Consular Affairs, at **(202) 647-5225** from a touchtone phone. The recording is updated as new information becomes available. Consular Information Sheets, Travel                                    Warnings and Public Announcements may also be obtained from any regional passport agency, from most airline computer reservation                                    systems, from U.S. embassies or consulates abroad, or by sending your request, (indicating the desired country on the lower                                    left corner of the envelope), in a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the **Office of Overseas Citizens Services, Bureau of Consular Affairs, Room 4811, U.S. Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520-4818** .

**By Internet**

Information about travel and consular services is available on this site . Visitors to the site will find Travel Warnings, Public Announcements, Consular Information Sheets, passport and visa information,                                    travel publications, background on international adoption and international child abduction services, and international legal                                    assistance.

**Tips for Travelers Series**

The Department of State publishes a series of brochures on travel to specific regions of the world. The brochures cover a                                    variety of topics such as import and export controls, customs and currency regulations, dual nationality, crime information,                                    health precautions, and photography restrictions. The publications are available from **the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office (GPO), Washington, D.C. 20402** . (Availability and prices are subject to change without notice. Please check with the GPO at telephone 202-512-1800.)

**REQUIRED DOCUMENTS**

Travel document requirements vary from country to country, but you will need the following: a U.S. passport or other proof                                    of citizenship, plus a visa or a tourist card, if required by the country or countries that you will visit. You may also need                                    evidence that you have enough money for your trip and/or have ongoing or return transportation tickets.

**A Valid Passport**

***Who Needs a Passport?***

A U.S. citizen needs a passport to depart or enter the United States and to enter and depart most foreign countries. Exceptions                                    include short-term travel between the United States and Mexico, Canada, and some countries in the Caribbean, where a U.S.                                    birth certificate or other proof of U.S. citizenship may be accepted. Your travel agent or airline can tell you if you need                                    a passport for the country that you plan to visit. Information on entry requirements is available from the booklet ***Foreign Entry Requirements*** , from the **Consumer Information Center, Pueblo, Colorado 81009; telephone 719-948-4000** ; Internet http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/ The embassy or consulate of the country where you plan to travel can also advise you about its entry requirements.

**Please Remember!**

Even if you are not required to have a passport to visit a foreign country, U.S. Immigration requires you to prove your U.S.                                    citizenship and identity to reenter the United States. Make certain that you take with you adequate documentation to pass                                    through U.S. Immigration upon your return **. A U.S. passport is the best proof of U.S. citizenship. Other documents to prove U.S. citizenship include an expired U.S.                                       passport, a certified copy of your U.S. birth certificate, a Certificate of Naturalization, a Certificate of Citizenship,                                       or a Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States.** To prove your identity, either a valid driver's license or a government identification card that includes a photo or a physical                                    description is adequate.

With the number of international child custody cases on the rise, several countries have instituted passport requirements                                    to help prevent child abductions. For example, Mexico has a law that requires a child traveling alone, or with only one parent,                                    or in someone else's custody, to carry written, notarized consent from the absent parent or parents. No authorization is needed,                                    if the child travels alone and is in possession of a U.S. passport. A child traveling alone with a birth certificate requires                                    written, notarized authorization from both parents.

**Beware of a Passport That Is About to Expire!**

Certain countries will not permit you to enter and will not place a visa in your passport, if the remaining validity is less                                    than 6 months.

**All U.S. Citizens Must Have Their Own Passport.**

Since January 1981, family members are not permitted to be included in each other's passports. Even newborn babies need their                                    own passports to travel.

***When to Apply***

Every year, demand for passports becomes heavy in January and declines in August. You can help reduce U.S. Government expense                                    and avoid delays by applying between September and December. However, even during those months, periods of high demand for                                    passports can occur. Apply several months in advance of your planned departure, whenever possible. If you need visas, allow                                    additional time - approximately two weeks per visa.

***How to Apply for Your Passport in Person***

For your first passport, you must appear in person with a completed **Form DS-11, *Passport Application*** , at one of the 13 U.S. passport agencies or at many Federal and state courts, probate courts, at some county/municipal offices,                                    or at U.S. post offices authorized to accept passport applications. The addresses of passport acceptance facilities in your                                    area are available on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov or by **calling 1-877-487-2778** .)

All minors must appear in person when applying for a passport. Minors under age 14 must appear, **and be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian** . Applicants age 14 and older may apply on their own **IF they have acceptable identification** . The parent or legal guardian may be contacted by the Passport Agency to ensure that they are giving permission for issuance                                    of the passport. If the applicant does not have identification, then the parent or legal guardian must accompany the applicant.                                    For information on special requirements for children under age 14, visit **travel.state.gov** or call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.

If you have had a previous passport and wish to obtain a new one, you may be eligible to apply by mail.

For more information on obtaining a U.S. passport, you can obtain a copy of the publication *Passports: Applying for Them the Easy Way* . This pamphlet provides basic information about applying for a U.S. passport, and it is available from the Consumer Information                                    Center, Pueblo, Colorado 81009; telephone 719-948-4000; Internet http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/

### What to Bring When You Apply for a Passport in Person

**1. A properly completed, but unsigned, passport application (DS-11). Do not sign it!**

**2. Proof of U.S. citizenship (a, b, or c):**

**a. Use your previously issued passport** or one in which you were included. If you are applying for your first passport or cannot submit a previous passport, you                                    must submit other evidence of citizenship.

**b. If you were born in the United States, you should produce a certified copy of your birth certificate.** This must show that the birth record was filed shortly after birth and must be certified with the registrar's signature and                                    raised, impressed, embossed, or multicolored seal. Certified copies of birth records can be obtained from the Bureau of Vital                                    Statistics in the city, state, county, or territory where you were born. ( ***Notifications of Birth Registration*** or ***Birth Announcements*** are not normally accepted for passport purposes.) A delayed birth certificate (one filed more than one year after the date                                    of birth) is acceptable, provided it shows a plausible basis for creating this record. If it does not, you will need to submit                                    the best secondary evidence possible.

**If you cannot obtain a birth certificate,** you may submit a notice from a state registrar stating that no birth record exists, accompanied by the best secondary evidence                                    possible. This may include a baptismal certificate, a hospital birth record, notarized affidavits of persons having personal                                    knowledge of the facts of your birth, or other documentary evidence such as an early census, school records, family Bible                                    records, and newspaper files. A personal knowledge affidavit should be supported by at least one public record reflecting                                    birth in the United States.

**c. If you were born abroad, you can use:**
                  - A Certificate of Naturalization
                  - A Certificate of Citizenship
                  - A Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States of America (Form FS-240)
                  - A Certification of Birth (Form FS-545 or DS-1350)

If you do not have any of these documents and are a U.S. citizen, you should call the **National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 for assistance** .

**3. Proof of identity.**

You must also establish your identity to the satisfaction of the person accepting your application. The following items are                                    generally acceptable documents of identity, if they contain your signature and if they readily identify you by physical description                                    or photograph:
                  - A previous U.S. passport
                  - A Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
                  - A valid driver's license
                  - A government issued (Federal, state, municipal) identification card

The following are **not acceptable** :
                  - A Social Security card
                  - A learner's or temporary driver's license
                  - A credit card of any type
                  - Any temporary or expired identity card or document
                  - Any document that has been altered or changed

**4. Photographs.**

You must present two identical photographs of yourself that are sufficiently recent (normally taken within the past 6 months)                                    to be a good likeness. **Passport Services encourages photographs where the applicant is relaxed and smiling.**

The photographs must not exceed 2x2 inches in size. The image size measured from the bottom of your chin to the top of your                                    head (including hair) must be not less than 1 inch nor more than 1-3/8 inches with your head taking up most of the photograph.                                    Passport photographs may be either black and white or color.

Photographs must be clear, front view, full-face, and printed on thin, white paper with a plain, white or off-white background.                                    Photographs should be portrait-type prints taken in normal street attire without a hat and must include no more than the head                                    and shoulders or upper torso. Dark glasses are not acceptable except when worn for medical reasons. Head coverings are only                                    acceptable, if they are worn for religious reasons.

Applicants may use photographs in military uniform **only** if they are on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and are proceeding abroad in the discharge of their duties.

Newspaper, magazine and most vending machine prints are not acceptable for use in passports.

**5. The correct fee for applying for a passport in person.**

Applicants age 16 and over, who are required to appear in person, must pay $85 for their passport. This includes a $30 execution                                    fee. The passport is valid for 10 years. Applicants age 15 and under must pay $70 for their passport. This includes a $30                                    execution fee. The passport is valid for 5 years.

You may pay by check, bank draft, or money order, payable to Passport Services. You may also pay in cash (exact change only)                                    at a passport agency and at some, but not all post offices and clerks of court.

### How to Apply for a Passport by Mail

You may apply by mail if you meet the following requirements:
                  - You can submit your most recent passport.
                  - Your previous passport was issued on or after your 16th birthday and was issued within the past 15 years.
                  - You use the same name as that on your most recent passport or you have had your name changed by marriage or court order, and                                       can submit proof of the change in name

Obtain Form **DS-82, *Application for Passport by Mail*** , from one of the U.S. passport agencies, from a Federal or state court, from a U.S. post office that is authorized to accept                                    passport applications, from your travel agent, or from the Internet at http://travel.state.gov Complete the information requested                                    on the reverse side of the form.

**(1)** Sign and date the application.

**(2)** Include your date of departure. If no date is included, passport agents will assume that your travel plans are not immediate,                                    and you will receive your passport within 25 working days from receipt of the application at the passport agency.

**(3)** Enclose your previous passport. (Your previous passport and other documents that you may have submitted will be returned                                    to you with your new passport.)

**(4)** Enclose two identical 2x2 photographs.

**(5)** Enclose the $55 passport fee. (The $30 execution fee is not required for applicants eligible to apply by mail.)

**(6)** If your name has changed, submit the original or certified copy of the court order or marriage certificate that shows the                                    change of name.

**(7)** The person that you list to be notified in case of an emergency should be someone who could act on your behalf. The person                                    should be someone to whom you have given or could give a power of attorney.

**(8)** For processing, mail the completed application and attachments to the **National Passport Center** , listed on the application form. An incomplete or improperly prepared application will delay issuance of your passport.

**(9)** If requesting Expedited Service, include the $60.00 expedite fee.

***How to Pay the Passport Fee***

The following forms of payment are acceptable when you apply by mail:
                  - A bank draft or a cashier's check
                  - A check: either a certified check, a personal check, or a traveler's check (The check should be made out for the exact amount
                  - A money order: either a U.S. postal money order, an international money order, a currency exchange money order or a bank money                                       order
                  - Checks must be made payable to **Passport Services** .

Sign it right away! Fill in page 5, the personal notification data page. (For the emergency contact, do not include the name                                    of your traveling companion; instead, write in pencil the name, address, and telephone number of someone who is not traveling                                    with you.) Your previous passport and other documents that you may have submitted will be returned to you with your new passport.

### Other Passport Information

***Expedited Service***

It normally takes **25 business days** from receipt of the complete application by a passport agency to return your passport. If you wish or need to receive your                                    passport sooner, you may request expedited service for processing of the passport within 3 business days from receipt of the                                    application by a passport agency. The fee for expedited service is $60.00 per application, which is in addition to the regular                                    passport fee.

If you request expedited service, **your departure date should be clearly shown on the application** . Anyone who pays the $60.00 expedite fee and submits a complete application will be given expedited service.

If you plan to travel in more than two weeks, but need a passport urgently, it is strongly recommended that you arrange for                                    two-way overnight delivery of the passport to prevent delays. If you are leaving **within two weeks** , it is recommended that you go to the nearest passport agency to apply.

For additional details, you may check with the **National Passport Information Center** .

If you plan to travel abroad frequently or if you stay overseas for long periods of time, your relatives or associates in                                    the United States should have valid passports as well. That way, if you were to become seriously ill or involved in some other                                    emergency, they could travel without delay. Also, you should leave with them your passport number and the date and place of                                    the passport's issuance.

***Diplomatic and Official Passports***

If you are being assigned abroad on U.S. government business and are eligible to apply by mail for a no-fee passport (no-fee                                    regular passport, official passport, diplomatic passport), you must submit the mail-in application form, your authorization                                    to apply for a no-fee passport, your previous passport, and two photographs to the Special Issuance Agency in Washington,                                    D.C. for processing. The address is **1111 19th Street, N.W., Suite 200, Washington, D.C. 20522-1705** .

***Additional Visa Pages***

Should you require additional visa pages before your passport expires, you can obtain them by submitting your passport to                                    one of the passport agencies listed at the back of this pamphlet. If you travel frequently to countries requiring visas, you                                    may request a 48-page passport at the time that you apply. There is no additional charge for extra pages or for a 48-page                                    passport.

***Change of Name***

If you have changed your name, you will need to have your passport amended. Fill out **Form DS-19, *Passport Amendment/Validation Application*** , which is available from any office that is authorized to accept passport applications. The form can also be downloaded                                    from this site . Submit the DS-19 along with proof of the name change (a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or certified court order)                                    to:
| Charleston Passport Center Attention: Amendments 1269 Holland Street Charleston, SC 29405 |
|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

There is no fee for this service, except if expedite service is requested.

***An Altered or Mutilated Passport***

If your U.S. passport is mutilated or altered in any way (other than changing the personal notification data), you may render                                    it invalid, cause yourself much inconvenience, and expose yourself to possible prosecution under the law (Section 1543, Title                                    22 of the U.S. Code).

Mutilated or altered passports should be turned in to passport agents, authorized postal employees, or U.S. consular officers                                    abroad.

***Loss or Theft of a U.S. Passport***

It is important that you safeguard your passport. Its loss could cause you unnecessary travel complications as well as significant                                    expense.

If your passport is lost or stolen in the United States, you should apply for a new passport and complete **Form DS-64, *Statement Regarding Lost or Stolen Passport*** , which is available at U.S. passport agencies, or it can be downloaded from this site . You may also report your passport lost/stolen by calling 202-955-0340.

If your passport is lost or stolen abroad, you should report the loss immediately to the local police and to the nearest U.S.                                    embassy or consulate. If you can provide the consular officer with the information contained in your passport, it will facilitate                                    issuance of a new passport. Therefore, it is a good idea to make two photocopies of the data page of your passport. Keep one                                    copy separately from your passport to take with you on your trip, and leave the other copy with a relative or friend in the                                    United States. It is also a good idea to carry two extra passport size photos with you.

***Do You Have Other Questions About Passports?***

Additional passport information may be obtained from the **National Passport Information Center (NPIC).** Callers can dial **1-877-487-2778** to receive passport applications or additional information about passport emergencies, applying for a U.S. passport, and                                    to check on the status of a passport application. Automated information is available 24-hours/day, 7 days/week. Operators                                    can be reached Monday-Friday, excluding Federal holidays, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Services are provided in English,                                    Spanish and by TDD **(1-888-874-7793).**

### How to Obtain Visas

***Foreign Entry Requirements***

The Department of State publication M-264, *Foreign Entry Requirements* , gives entry requirements for every country and tells where and how to apply for visas and tourist cards. It can be ordered                                    from the **Consumer Information Center, Pueblo, Colorado 81009; telephone: 719-948-4000; Internet**http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/**Please Note:** The publication is updated annually, but it may not reflect the most current requirements. It is advisable to verify the                                    latest visa requirements directly with the embassy or consulate of each country that you plan to visit.

Because a visa is stamped directly onto a blank page in your passport, you will need to give your passport to an official                                    of each foreign embassy or consulate. You may also need to fill out a form and submit one or more photographs with the form.                                    Many visas require a fee. The process may take several weeks for each visa, so it is wise to apply well in advance of your                                    trip, if possible.

***Tourist Card***

If the country that you plan to visit only requires a tourist card, you can usually obtain one from the country's embassy                                    or consulate, from an airline serving the country, or at the port of entry. There is a fee for some tourist cards.

***Proof of Citizenship***

Check with the embassy or consulate of each country that you plan to visit to learn what proof of citizenship is required                                    of visitors. Even if a country does not require a visitor to have a passport, it will require some proof of citizenship and                                    identity. Remember that no matter what proof of citizenship a foreign country requires, U.S. Immigration has strict requirements                                    for reentry into the United States.

### Immunizations

Information on immunization requirements, U.S. Public Health Service recommendations, and other health guidance, including                                    risks in particular countries, are included in the book, ***Health Information for International Travel*** . It may be purchased from the **Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, P.O. Box 371954, Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7954** . Orders by telephone and a credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover) can be made by calling **202-512-1800; fax 202-512-2250** . In addition, you may obtain information on health from local and state health departments or physicians. The information                                    is also available from **the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's 24-hour hotline at 1-888-232-3228** , from their automated faxback service at **1-888-232-3299** , or from their home page on the Internet at http://www.cdc.gov .

It is not necessary to be vaccinated against a disease to which you will not be exposed, and few countries refuse to admit                                    you if you arrive without the necessary vaccinations. Officials will either vaccinate you, give you a medical follow-up card,                                    or, in rare circumstances, put you in isolation for the incubation period of the disease that you were not vaccinated against.                                    It is a good idea to check immunization requirements before you depart.

If vaccinations are required, they must be recorded on approved forms, such as those in the booklet PHS-731, ***International Certificates of Vaccination as Approved by the World Health Organization* .** If your doctor or public health office does not have this booklet, it can be purchased from the **Superintendent of Documents, P.O. Box 371954, Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7954; telephone 202-512-1800,** or Government Printing Office bookstores. You should keep the booklet with your passport.

An increasing number of countries require that foreigners be tested for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) prior to entry.                                    Testing is usually required as part of a medical exam for long term visitors (i.e., students and workers). Before traveling                                    abroad, you can check with the embassy or consulate of the country that you intend to visit to learn about the latest information                                    concerning entry requirements and, particularly, whether or not an AIDS/HIV test is a requirement.

### Health Insurance

Senior citizens may wish to contact the American Association of Retired Persons for information about foreign medical care                                    coverage with Medicare supplement plans.

If your health insurance policy does not provide coverage for hospital or medical costs abroad, you are urged to purchase                                    a temporary health policy that does provide this type of coverage. There are short-term health and emergency assistance policies                                    designed for travelers. You can find the names of companies that provide such policies from your travel agent, your health                                    insurance company, or from advertisements in travel publications. Useful information on medical emergencies abroad is provided                                    in the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs' flyer, *Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad* . In addition to health insurance, many policies include trip cancellation, baggage loss, and travel accident insurance in                                    the same package. Some traveler's check companies have protection policies available with the purchase of traveler's checks.

***Medical Evacuation***

Although some health insurance companies may pay "customary and reasonable" hospital costs abroad, very few will pay for medical                                    evacuation back to the United States. Medical evacuation can easily cost $10,000 or more, depending on your location and medical                                    condition. One of the main advantages of health and emergency assistance policies is that they often include coverage for                                    medical evacuation to the United States. Even if your regular health insurance covers you for emergencies abroad, you should                                    consider purchasing supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

**Whichever health insurance coverage you choose for travel overseas, remember to carry with you both your health insurance                                       policy identity card and claim forms.**

**Do You Need Travel Insurance?**

You may not need travel insurance, if you are already adequately covered by other insurance policies.

Depending on the travel insurance plan, travel insurance usually promises to cover you for cancellation or interruption of                                    your trip, some form of emergency medical care while you are traveling, lost or stolen luggage, and various other troublesome                                    occurrences.

Before you decide on a travel insurance plan, it is wise to investigate the plan carefully and read the fine print. You should                                    closely check any agreements with your travel agent, tour operator, airline, or other companies involved with your travel                                    plans. The agreements may include written guarantees.

If you have a fully refundable airline ticket, you may decide that you would not need trip cancellation/interruption insurance.

On the other hand, it may be worthwhile noting that certain insurance plans can protect you by covering the financial costs                                    in case of the following situations:
                  - A sudden, serious injury or illness to you, a family member, or a traveling companion.
                  - Financial default of the airline, cruise line or tour operator.
                  - Natural disasters or strikes that impede travel services.
                  - A terrorist incident in a foreign city within 10 days of your scheduled arrival in that particular city.

The fact that you, a traveling member of your family, or a traveling companion were quarantined, served with a court order                                    or required to serve on a jury.

A circumstance in which you were directly involved in an accident enroute to departure for your trip.

It is a good idea to check your other insurance policies. For instance, your homeowners or tenants insurance may cover the                                    loss or theft of your luggage.

Certain credit cards may also provide additional travel insurance, if you have used them to purchase the ticket for your trip.

Your health insurance may provide certain coverage, regardless of where you travel. But it is very important to note that                                    some policies only partially cover medical expenses abroad. Moreover, as previously explained in the section on Health Insurance,                                    Medicare/Medicaid will not cover hospital and medical services outside the United States. (Please see section on **Health Insurance** for more details about health emergencies abroad.)

Your travel agent should be able to advise you about the right plan for you. Before purchasing travel insurance, review the                                    plan carefully, and be wary of buying coverage that you may already have.

### How to Bring Money

It is wise **not** to carry large amounts of cash. You should take most of your money in traveler's checks and remember to record the serial                                       number, denomination and the date and location of the issuing bank or agency. Keep this information in a safe and separate                                       place so, if you lose your traveler's checks, you can quickly get replacements.

***Credit Cards***

Some credit cards can be used worldwide, even for cash advances. Keep track of your credit card purchases so that you do not                                       exceed your limit. Travelers have been arrested overseas for mistakenly exceeding their credit limit! Leave all unnecessary                                       credit cards at home. Record the numbers of the credit cards that you do bring, and keep the list separately from the cards.

You should immediately report the loss or theft of your credit cards or traveler's checks to the credit card companies and                                       to the local police. If you plan to stay in one place for some time, you might consider opening an account for check cashing                                       and other transactions at a U.S. bank that has an overseas affiliate. U.S. embassies and consulates **cannot** cash checks for you.

Before leaving on your trip, you may wish to check with your bank to see if the country or countries that you plan to visit                                       have Automated Teller Machine (ATM) service. The bank should be able to tell you if you can use your ATM card during your                                       trip abroad.

***Prepare for Emergency Funds***

It is a good idea to keep the telephone number for your bank in the United States with you, in case you run out of cash and                                       need to transfer money. In some countries, major banks and certain travel agencies can help arrange a transfer of funds from                                       your account to a foreign bank. If you do not have a bank account from which you can obtain emergency funds, you should make                                       arrangements in advance with a relative or friend to send you emergency funds should it become necessary. If you find yourself                                       destitute, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance in arranging a money wire transfer from a relative                                       or friend in the United States.

***Foreign Currency***

Before departing, you may wish to purchase small amounts of foreign currency to use for buses, taxis, phones, or tips when                                       you first arrive. Foreign exchange facilities at airports may be closed when your flight arrives. You can purchase foreign                                       currency at some U.S. banks, at foreign exchange firms, at foreign exchange windows, or even at vending machines in many international                                       airports in the United States.

Some countries regulate the amount of local currency that you can bring into or take out of the country; others require that                                       you exchange a minimum amount of currency. For currency regulations, check with a bank, a foreign exchange firm, your travel                                       agent, or the embassy or consulate of the countries that you plan to visit.

If you leave or enter the United States with more than $10,000 in monetary instruments of any kind, you must file a report,                                       **Customs Form 4790** , with U.S. Customs at the time. Failure to comply can result in civil and criminal proceedings.

***Valuables -- Do Not Bring Them!***

Do **not** bring anything on your trip that you would hate to lose, such as expensive jewelry, family photographs, or objects of sentimental                                       value. If you bring jewelry, wear it discreetly to help prevent snatch-and-run robbery.

### Other Things To Arrange Before You Depart

### Lodging

Many travelers wait until they reach their destination before making hotel reservations. Some train stations and airports                                       have travel desks to assist you in finding lodging. However, when you arrive, you may be tired and unfamiliar with your surroundings,                                       and could have difficulty locating a hotel to suit your needs. Therefore, when possible, reserve your lodging in advance and                                       confirm your reservations along the way. During peak tourist season, it is important to have a hotel reservation for at least                                       the first night that you arrive in a foreign city.

An alternative to hotels and pensions is the youth hostel system, which offers travelers of all ages clean, inexpensive, overnight                                       accommodations in more than 6,000 locations in over 70 countries worldwide. Hostels provide dormitory-style accommodations                                       with separate facilities for males and females. Some hostels have family rooms that can be reserved in advance. Curfews are                                       often imposed and membership is frequently required. For more information, you may contact: **American Youth Hostels, P.O. Box 37613, Washington, D.C. 20013-7613; telephone (202) 783-6161.**

***Organized Programs***

The majority of private programs for vacation, study, or work abroad are reputable and financially sound. However, some charge                                       exorbitant fees, use deliberately false "educational" claims, and provide working conditions far different from those advertised.                                       Even programs of legitimate organizations can be poorly administered. Be cautious. **Before committing yourself or your finances, find out about the organization and what it offers.**

***Travel Benefits for Students and Teachers***

Students and teachers can save money on transportation and accommodations, and obtain other discounts if they have one of                                       the following:

An **International Student Identity Card** - for students age 12 and older. You must be a junior high school, high school, college, university or vocational school                                       student at least 12 years of age. Also, you must be enrolled in a study program leading to a diploma or degree at an accredited                                       institution.

An **International Teacher Identity Card** - for full-time teachers and faculty at an accredited institution.

A **GO 25 International Youth Travel Card** - for youths ages 12 - 25. You must be at least 12 years of age, but not over 25 at the time that you apply.

These cards are available with proof of your status and a small fee from: **Council on International Educational Exchange; 205 East 42nd Street; New York, New York 10017; telephone 1-888-COUNCIL** ; Internet http://www.counciltravel.com/idcards/default.asp

The international identity cards offer the following benefits:
                  - Reduced airfares on major international airlines
                  - Discounts in the United States and abroad, including transportation, accommodations, international phone calls, car rentals                                          and museum admissions
                  - Toll-free, 24-hour, emergency **Help Line**
                  - **Basic insurance** to cover sickness, accident and emergency evacuation while traveling outside the United States **( *only* for cards purchased in the United States.)**
                  - International student/teacher/youth recognition.

For more details and information about applying for international identity cards, contact the Council on International Educational                                       Exchange aas listed above.

**Pre-Paid Telephone Card Service**

You never know when you may wish or need to telephone home during your trip. For such purposes, you might consider purchasing                                       a pre-paid telephone card. You can check with telephone companies about pre-paid telephone card service. They should be able                                       to provide you with information about prices, sales locations in the United States and ordering the service by telephone.                                       If you decide to purchase a pre-paid telephone card, be sure that the card you choose will work outside the United States.

### Transportation

***Charter Flights and Airlines***

There have been occasions when airlines or companies that sell charter flights or tour packages have gone out of business                                       with little warning, stranding passengers overseas. If you know from the media or your travel agent that an airline is in                                       financial difficulty, ask your travel agent or the airline what recourse you would have, if the airline ceased to operate.                                       Some airlines may honor the tickets of a defunct airline, but they usually do so with restrictions.

It is a good idea to purchase tours only from operators that guarantee the safety of your money through a consumer protection                                       plan.

Before you purchase a charter flight or tour package, read the contract carefully. Unless it guarantees to deliver services                                       promised or give a full refund, you may consider purchasing travel insurance. If you are unsure of the reputation of a charter                                       company or tour operator, consult your local **Better Business Bureau or the American Society of Travel Agents at 1101 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, Tel. (703) 739-2782** . They will help answer your questions and tell you whether or not a company has a complaint record.

### Driver's License/Auto Insurance

Many countries do not recognize a U.S. driver's license. However, most countries accept an international driver's permit.                                       Before departure, you can obtain one at a local office of an automobile association. The U.S. Department of State has authorized                                       two organizations to issue international driving permits to those who hold valid U.S. driver's licenses: **AAA and the American Automobile Touring Alliance** . To apply for an international driving permit, you must be at least age 18, and you will need to present two passport-size                                       photographs and your valid U.S. license. Certain countries require road permits, instead of tolls, to use on their divided                                       highways, and they will fine those found driving without a permit.

Car rental agencies overseas usually provide auto insurance, but in some countries, the required coverage is minimal. When                                       renting a car overseas, consider purchasing insurance coverage that is at least equivalent to that which you carry at home.

In general, your U.S. auto insurance does not cover you abroad. However, your policy may apply when you drive to countries                                       neighboring the United States. Check with your insurer to see if your policy covers you in Canada, Mexico, or countries south                                       of Mexico. Even if your policy is valid in one of these countries, it may not meet its minimum requirements. For instance,                                       in most of Canada, you must carry at least $200,000 in liability insurance, and Mexico requires that, if vehicles do not carry                                       theft, third party liability, **and** comprehensive insurance, the owner must post a bond that could be as high as 50% of the value of the vehicle. If you are                                       under-insured for a country, auto insurance can usually be purchased on either side of the border.

### U.S. Customs Pre-Registration

**The ATA Carnet**

If you are interested in establishing business overseas, you may consider obtaining and ATA Carnet, which is an international                                       Customs document for temporary, duty-free imports. The ATA Carnet offers many advantages for international business. For example,                                       it reduces the cost of exporting by eliminating the value-added (VAT). It also simplifies the extensive Customs procedures                                       by allowing temporary exporters to use a single document for all transactions and make arrangements for many countries and                                       many trips in advance at a predetermined cost. For more information about obtaining an ATA Carnet, please contact the U.S.                                       Council for International Business, 1212 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York 10036; telephone 212-354-4480; fax 212-944-0012.

### Documentation for Medications

If you have allergies, reactions to certain medicines, or other unique medical problems, you may consider wearing a medical                                       alert bracelet or carrying a similar warning.

**Information About Physicians and Hospitals Abroad**

Several private organizations provide listings of physicians abroad to international travelers. Membership in these organizations                                       is generally free, although a donation may be requested. Membership entitles you to a number traveler's medical aids, including                                       a directory of physicians with their overseas locations, telephone numbers and doctors' fee schedules. The physicians are                                       generally English-speaking and provide medical assistance 24 hours a day. The addresses of these medical organizations are                                       in travel magazines or may be available from your travel agent.

U.S. embassies and consulates abroad usually keep lists of physicians and hospitals in their area. Major credit card companies                                       also can provide the names of local doctors and hospitals abroad.

For detailed information about physicians abroad, the authoritative reference is ***the Directory of Medical Specialists*** , published for the American Board of Medical Specialists and its 22 certifying member boards. The publication should be                                       available in your local library.

More medical information may be found in the Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs' brochure, *Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad* , available by autofax service at 202-647-3000.

### Places to Receive Mail

### Learn About Dual Nationality

                  - You were born in that country.
                  - Your parent(s) is or was a citizen of that country.
                  - You are married to a citizen of that country.
                  - You are a naturalized U.S. citizen, but you are still considered to be a citizen under that country's laws.

If any of the possibilities for dual nationality applies to you, check on your status (including military obligations) with                                       the embassy or consulate of the country that might claim you as a citizen. In particular, Americans may have problems with                                       dual nationality in certain countries in the Middle East, in South America, and in Africa. Some foreign countries refuse to                                       recognize a dual national's U.S. citizenship and do not allow U.S. officials access to arrested Americans.

### Some Things to Leave Behind

You should leave a detailed itinerary (with names, addresses, and phone numbers of persons and places to be visited) with                                       relatives or friends in the United States so that you can be reached in an emergency. Also, include a photocopy of your passport                                       information page.

**Other Important Numbers**

It is a good idea to make a list of all important numbers - your passport information as well as your credit card, traveler's                                       checks, and airline ticket numbers. Leave a copy of the list at home, and carry a copy with you.

### While You Are Overseas

If you change your travel plans, miss your return flight, or extend your trip, be sure to notify relatives or friends at home.                                       Should you find yourself in an area of civil unrest or natural disaster, please let your relatives or friends at home know                                       **as soon as you can** that you are safe. Prior to your departure, you should register with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate through the State                                       Department's travel registration website . Registration will make your presence and whereabouts known in case it is necessary to contact you in an emergency. In accordance with the Privacy Act, information on your welfare and whereabouts may not be released without your express authorization.                                          Remember to leave a detailed itinerary and the numbers or copies of your passport or other citizenship documents with a friend                                          or relative in the United States.

### Safety Tips

**Your passport is the most valuable document that you will carry abroad. It confirms your U.S. citizenship. Please guard it                                          carefully. Do not use it as collateral for a loan or lend it to anyone. It is your best form of identification. You will need                                          it when you pick up mail or check into hotels, embassies or consulates.**

When entering some countries or registering at hotels, you may be asked to fill out a police card listing your name, passport                                       number, destination, local address, and reason for travel. You may be required to leave your passport at the hotel reception                                       desk overnight so that it may be checked by local police officials. These are normal procedures required by local laws. If                                       your passport is not returned the following morning, immediately report the impoundment to local police authorities and to                                       the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

***Passport Fraud***

Law enforcement records show that U.S. passports are sometimes used for illegal entry into the United States, or by criminals                                       abroad seeking to establish another identity. This can cause embarrassment to innocent U.S. citizens whose names become associated                                       with illegal activities. To protect the integrity of the U.S. passport and the security of the person bearing it, consular                                       officers overseas have found it necessary to take precautions in processing lost passport cases. These precautions may involve                                       some delay before a new passport is issued.

***Safeguard Your Passport***

Carelessness is the main cause for losing a passport or having it stolen. You may find that you have to carry your passport                                       with you because you need to show it when you cash traveler's checks or the country that you are visiting requires you to                                       carry it as an identity document. When you must carry your passport, hide it securely on your person. Do not leave it in a                                       handbag nor in an exposed pocket. Whenever possible, leave your passport in the hotel safe, not in an empty hotel room, and                                       not packed in your luggage. One family member should not carry all the passports for the entire family.

**Guard Against Thieves**

Coat pockets, handbags, and hip pockets are particularly susceptible to theft. Thieves will use all kinds of ploys to divert                                       your attention just long enough to pick your pocket and grab your purse or wallet. These ploys include creating a disturbance,                                       spilling something on your clothing, or even handing you a baby to hold!

You can try to prevent theft by carrying your belongings in a secure manner. For example, consider not carrying a purse or                                       wallet when going along crowded streets. Women who carry a shoulder bag should keep it tucked under the arm and held securely                                       by the strap. Men should put their wallets in their front trouser pockets or use money belts instead of hip pockets. A wallet                                       wrapped in rubber bands is more difficult to remove without notice. Be especially cautious in a large crowd _ in the subway,                                       on buses, at the marketplace, at a festival, or if surrounded by groups of vagrant children. Do not make it easy for thieves!

### Financial and Shopping Tips

Local banks usually offer better rates of exchange than hotels, restaurants, or stores. Rates are often posted in windows.                                       Above all, avoid private currency transactions. In some countries, you risk more than being swindled or stuck with counterfeit                                       currency _ you risk arrest. Avoid the black market --- learn and obey the local currency laws, wherever you go.

**Shopping**

***Mail Small Items***

When you purchase small items, it is a good idea to mail them personally to your home or to carry them in your luggage. This                                       will help prevent misdirected packages, no receipt of merchandise, or receipt of wrong merchandise. When you mail purchases,                                       be sure to ask about insurance.

American embassies and consulates abroad cannot serve as post offices. **They cannot accept, hold, or forward mail for U.S. citizens abroad.**

Items mailed home are **not** eligible for your $400 personal exemption. If the item that you are mailing home is less than $200, duty will be waived.                                       Be sure to write on the outside of the package that it contains goods for personal use.

***Value Added Tax***

Some European countries levy a value added tax (VAT) on the items that you buy. In some places, if you ship your purchases                                       home, the VAT can be waived. Other places may require you to pay the VAT, but have a system to refund all of it or part of                                       it to you by mail. You can ask the store clerk for an application to apply for the refund. The VAT refund is only for items                                       that you can ship or carry with you. It does not apply to food, hotel bills, or other services. Because the rules for VAT                                       refunds vary from country to country, you should check with the country's tourist office to learn the local requirements.

**Beware When Making the Following Purchases:**

***Wildlife Souvenirs***

Be careful when you buy articles made from animals and plants or when you purchase live, wild animals to bring back as pets.                                       Some items, such as those made from elephant ivory, sea turtles, crocodile leather, or fur from endangered cats, and many                                       species of live animals cannot be brought legally into the United States. Your wildlife souvenirs could be confiscated by                                       government inspectors, and you could face other penalties for attempting to bring them into the United States. Do not buy                                       wildlife or wildlife products unless you are certain that they are legal for import into the United States.

***Glazed Ceramics***

Beware of purchasing glazed ceramic ware abroad. It is possible to suffer lead poisoning, if you consume food or beverages                                       that are stored or served in improperly glazed ceramics. Unless the ceramics are made by a firm with an international reputation,                                       there is no immediate way to be certain that a particular item is safe. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends that                                       ceramic tableware purchased abroad be tested for lead release by a commercial laboratory on your return or be used for decorative                                       purposes only.

***Antiques***

Certain countries consider antiques to be national treasures and the "inalienable property of the nation." In some countries,                                       customs authorities seize illegally purchased antiques without compensation, and they may also levy fines on the purchaser.                                       Americans have been arrested and prosecuted for purchasing antiques without a permit. Americans have even been arrested for                                       purchasing reproductions of antiques from street vendors because a local authority believed the purchase was a national treasure.

**Protect yourself.** In countries where antiques are important, document your purchases as reproductions, if that is the case, or, if they are                                       authentic, secure the necessary export permit. The documentation or export permit may be available through the country's national                                       museum. A reputable dealer may provide the export permit or information on how to secure one. If you have questions about                                       purchasing antiques, the country's tourist office can guide you. If you still have doubts, consult the Consular Section of                                       the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. In places where Americans have had problems because of purchasing antiques, the Consular                                       Section is usually well aware of such situations. Consular officers can inform you about the local laws and the correct procedures                                       to follow.

**Customs**

It is important that you keep all receipts for items you buy overseas. They will be helpful in making your U.S. Customs declaration                                       when you return.

### Legal Tips

When you are in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws. It helps to learn about local laws and regulations and to                                       obey them. Try to avoid areas of unrest and disturbance. Deal only with authorized outlets when exchanging money or buying                                       airline tickets and traveler's checks. **Do *not* deliver a package for anyone, unless you know the person well and you are certain that the package does not contain drugs                                          or other contraband.**

Before you think about selling personal effects, such as clothing, cameras, or jewelry, you should learn about the local regulations                                       regarding such sales. You must adhere strictly to local laws because the penalties that you risk are severe.

Some countries are particularly sensitive about photographs. In general, refrain from photographing police and military installations                                       and personnel; industrial structures, including harbor, rail, and airport facilities; border areas; and scenes of civil disorder                                       or other public disturbance. Taking such photographs may result in your detention, in the confiscation of your camera and                                       films, as well as the imposition of fines. For information on photography restrictions, check with the country's tourist office                                       or its embassy or consulate in the United States. Once abroad, you can check with local authorities or with the Consular Section                                       of the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

**Drug Arrests**

About 3,000 Americans are arrested abroad each year. Of these, approximately one-third are held on drug charges. Despite repeated                                       warnings, drug arrests and convictions are still a common occurrence. Many countries have stiff penalties for drug violations                                       and strictly enforce drug laws. If you are caught buying, selling, carrying or using any type of drug - from hashish to heroin,                                       marijuana to mescaline, cocaine to quaaludes - you will be arrested. You are subject to foreign laws overseas, **not U.S. laws** , and, if arrested, you will find that:
                  - Few countries provide a jury trial.
                  - Trials are often long, with delays and postponements.
                  - Most countries do not accept bail.
                  - Pre-trial detention, often in solitary confinement, may last for months.

If you are convicted, you face a possible sentence of:
                  - 2 - 10 years in many countries
                  - A minimum of 6 years hard labor and a stiff fine in some countries
                  - The death penalty in a number of countries (e.g. Malaysia, Pakistan, Turkey, Thailand, Saudi Arabia)

During recent years, there has been an increase in the number of women arrested abroad. These are usually women who serve                                       as drug couriers or "mules" and who believe that they can make fast money and have a vacation at the same time, without getting                                       caught. Instead of a vacation, they receive a permanent residence in an overseas jail.

U.S. citizens have been arrested abroad on drug charges because they possessed just one ounce or less of marijuana. The risk                                       of being jailed for just one marijuana cigarette is simply not worth it!

Once you are arrested, the U.S. consular officer **CANNOT** get you out of jail nor out of the country!

Likewise, the U.S. consular officer **CANNOT**
                  - Represent you at trial or give you legal counsel.
                  - Pay legal fees and/or fines with U.S. Government funds.

**PLEASE REMEMBER!**
                  - If someone offers you a free trip and some quick and easy money, just for bringing back a suitcase...SAY NO!
                  - Do not carry a package for anyone, no matter how small it may be.
                  - Do not let anyone pack your suitcases for you while you are abroad.
                  - If the drugs are in you suitcase, you will be caught.

**Do not get involved with illegal drugs overseas! It can spoil more than your vacation. It can ruin your life!**

For more details, you may wish to consult the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs' publication, *Travel Warning on Drugs Abroad* , available by autofax service at 202-647-3000.

**Legal Aid**

Because you are subject to local laws abroad, there is little that a U.S. consular officer can do for you, if you encounter                                       legal difficulties. As stated previously, a consular officer cannot get you out of jail. What American officials can do is                                       limited by both foreign and U.S. laws.

Although U.S. consular officers cannot serve as attorneys nor give legal advice, they can provide a list of local attorneys                                       and help you find adequate legal representation. The lists of attorneys are carefully compiled from local bar association                                       lists and responses to questionnaires, but neither the Department of State nor U.S. embassies or consulates abroad can assume                                       responsibility for the caliber, competence, or professional integrity of the attorneys.

If you are arrested, you should ask the authorities to notify a consular officer at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.                                       **Under international agreements and practice, you have the right to talk to the U.S. consul.** If you are denied this right, try to have someone get in touch with the U.S. consular officer for you.

When alerted, U.S. officials will visit you, advise you of your rights according to local laws, and contact your family and                                       friends, if you wish. They will do whatever they can to protect your legitimate interests and to ensure that you are not discriminated                                       against under local law. U.S. consuls can transfer money, food, and clothing to the prison authorities from your family or                                       friends. They will try to get relief, if you are held under inhumane or unhealthy conditions or treated less favorably than                                       others in the same situation.

### Help From American Consuls Abroad

You should register at the Consular Section of the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate:
                  - If you find yourself in a country or area that is experiencing civil unrest, has an unstable political climate, or is undergoing                                          a natural disaster, such as an earthquake or a hurricane.
                  - If you plan to go to a country where there are no U.S. officials. In such cases, you should register at the U.S embassy or                                          consulate in an adjacent country, leave an itinerary with the Consular Section, ask about conditions in the country that you                                          will visit, and ask about the third country that may represent U.S. interests there.
                  - If you plan to stay in a country longer than one month.

If you are traveling with an escorted tour to areas experiencing political uncertainty or other problems, find out if your                                       tour operator is registering your trip through the State Department's travel registration website . If it is not, or you are traveling on your own, you should register with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate through                                       the State Department's travel registration website .

### What U.S. Consuls Can Do To Help You

***In the Case of Destitution***

If you become destitute abroad, the U.S. consul can help you get in touch with your family, friends, bank, or employer and                                       tell you how to arrange for them to send funds for you. These funds can sometimes be wired to you through the Department of                                       State.

***In the Case of Illness or Injury***

If you become ill or injured while abroad, you can contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for a list of local doctors,                                       dentists, medical specialists, clinics and hospitals. If your illness or injury is serious, the U.S. consul can help you find                                       medical assistance and, at your request, will inform your family or friends of your condition. If necessary, a consul can                                       assist in the transfer of funds from the United States. Payment of hospital and other expenses is your responsibility. U.S.                                       consular officers cannot supply you with medication.

During an emergency, if you are unable to communicate, the consul will check your passport for the name and address of any                                       relative, friend, or legal representative whom you wish to have notified. Because the U.S. Government cannot pay for medical                                       evacuations, it is advisable to have private medical insurance to cover this.

***Marriage Abroad***

U.S. diplomatic and consular officials do not have the authority to perform marriages overseas. Marriage abroad must be performed                                       in accordance with local law. There are always documentary requirements, and in some countries, there is a lengthy residence                                       requirement before a marriage may take place.

Before traveling, ask the embassy or consulate of the country in which you plan to marry about their regulations and how to                                       prepare to marry abroad. Once abroad, the Consular Section of the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate may be able to answer                                       some of your questions, but it is your responsibility to deal with local civil authorities.

***Birth Abroad***

A child born abroad to a U.S. citizen parent or parents generally acquires U.S. citizenship at birth. As soon as possible                                       after the birth, the U.S. parent or parents should contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to have a ***Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States of America*** prepared. This document serves as proof of acquisition of U.S. citizenship and is acceptable evidence for obtaining a U.S.                                       passport and for most other purposes where one must show a birth certificate or proof of citizenship.

***Adoption Abroad***

If you plan to adopt a child overseas, you should be aware that the U.S. government considers foreign adoptions to be a private,                                       legal matter within the judicial sovereignty of the nation in which the child is residing. U.S. authorities have no right                                       to intervene on behalf of American citizens in the courts of the country where the adoption takes place. But there are a number                                       of ways in which U.S. embassies and consulates can assist prospective parents.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can provide you with information on the adoption process in that particular country. Consular                                       officers can inquire on your behalf about the status of your case in the foreign court, and they can assist in clarifying                                       documentary requirements, if necessary. Consular officers will also try to ensure that, as a U.S. citizen, you will not be                                       discriminated against by foreign courts, and they will provide you with information about the visa application process for                                       your adopted child.

Because children in foreign adoptions are considered to be nationals of the country of origin, prospective parents must comply                                       with local laws. One way to accomplish this is by dealing with a reputable international adoption agency, experienced in handling                                       adoptions in the particular country in which you wish to adopt the child. In the case of a private adoption, you should hire                                       a local attorney with expertise in adoptions.

Further information on adoption procedures can be obtained by requesting BCIS Form M-249 ***, The Immigration of Adopted and Prospective Adoptive Children*** . You may also write for the free pamphlet, *International Adoption* . Please send a self-addressed, triple-stamped 9"x12" envelope to: Office of Children's Issues, Overseas Citizens Services,                                       Bureau of Consular Affairs, Room 4817, Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520-4818. If you are planning to adopt from                                       a particular country, you should mention that in your request, because the Office of Children's Issues has specific information on the adoption procedures in countries around the world . Information is also available by autofax service on 202-647-3000.

***International Child Custody Disputes***

There are limits on the assistance that U.S. authorities can provide to parents involved in a child custody dispute. When                                       an American child is abducted overseas by a parent, the U.S. Government's role is to help the remaining parent locate the                                       child, monitor the child's welfare, and provide information about child custody laws and procedures in the country where the                                       child has been taken. Consular officers overseas can issue a U.S. passport to a child involved in a custody dispute, if the                                       child appears in person at a U.S. embassy or consulate, and if there is no court order from the foreign court of that country,                                       which bars the child's departure from the country.

Parents who are involved in a custody dispute overseas should find out whether that country is a party to the Hague Convention                                       on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. Under the Hague Convention, a child who has been wrongfully removed                                       from a parent may be returned to his or her place of habitual residence. For further information on international child abduction                                       and the Hague Convention, please contact the **Office of Children's Issues, Overseas Citizens Services, Bureau of Consular Affairs, Room 4817, Washington, D.C., 20520; telephone                                          202-647-7000** . This office also has copies of the booklet, *International Parental Child Abduction* , which contains helpful information on what U.S. citizen parents can do to prevent their child from becoming a victim of                                       parental child abduction. (The booklet is also available by autofax service at 202-674-3000. If you are overseas and would                                       like information on this subject, please contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance.

***Death Abroad***

When a U.S. citizen dies abroad, the consular officer reports the death to the next of kin or legal representative and arranges                                       to obtain from them the necessary private funds for local burial or return of the body to the United States. Before you begin                                       your trip, please complete in **pencil** the address page in the front of your passport. Please provide the name, address and telephone number of someone to be contacted                                       in an emergency. Do not give the names of your traveling companions, in case the entire party is involved in the same accident.

Because the U.S. Government cannot pay for local burial or shipment of remains to the United States, it is worthwhile to have                                       insurance to cover this possibility. Following a death, a ***Report of the Death of An American Citizen*** (Optional Form 180) is prepared by the consular officer to provide the facts concerning the death and the custody of the                                       personal estate of the deceased. Under certain circumstances, a consular officer becomes the provisional conservator of a                                       deceased American's estate and arranges for the disposition of those effects.

***A Variety of Non-Emergency Services***

Consular officers provide non-emergency services as well. These include information about Selective Service registration,                                       travel safety information, absentee voting, and the acquisition or loss of U.S. citizenship. They arrange for the transfer                                       of Social Security and other Federal benefits to beneficiaries residing abroad, provide U.S. tax forms, and notarize documents.                                       Consuls can also provide information on how to obtain foreign public documents.

### What U.S. Consuls Cannot Do

Because of limited resources, consuls **cannot** provide routine or commercial-type services. They cannot act as travel agents, information bureaus, banks, or law enforcement                                       officers. U.S. Federal law forbids a consular officer from acting as your lawyer. Consular officers **cannot** find you employment; get you visas, residence permits or driving permits; act as interpreters; search for missing luggage;                                       call your credit card company or bank; replace stolen traveler's checks; or settle disputes with hotel managers. However,                                       they can tell you how to get assistance on these matters, as well as other issues.

### When You Return

You should confirm your return reservation at least twice, and at least 72 hours before your scheduled departure. Whenever                                       possible, obtain a written confirmation. If you confirm your return reservation by phone, record the time, day, and the name                                       of the agent who took your call. If your name does not appear on the reservations list, you have no recourse and may find                                       yourself stranded.

**Departure Tax**

Some countries levy an airport departure tax on travelers, which can be as high as $50. Please ask the airline or a travel                                       agent about this tax. **Make certain to have enough money at the end of your trip so that you will be able to get on the plane.**

**Immigration and Customs**

If a passport was required for your trip, have it ready when you go through Immigration and Customs. If you took other documents                                       with you, such as an International Certificate of Vaccination, a medical letter, or a Customs certificate of registration                                       for foreign-made personal articles, have them ready, also. Have your receipts handy, in case you need to support your customs                                       declaration. When returning to the United States by car from Mexico or Canada, have your certificate of vehicle registration                                       available. It is a good idea to pack your baggage in a way to make inspection easier. For example, pack the articles you acquired                                       abroad separately, if possible.

Articles acquired abroad and brought back with you are subject to duty and Internal Revenue tax. U.S. Customs currently allows                                       each U.S. citizen to bring back $400 worth of merchandise duty free, provided the traveler has been outside the United States                                       for at least 48 hours, has not already used this exemption within the preceding 30 day period, and provided the traveler can                                       present the purchases upon his or her arrival at the port of entry. The next $1,000 worth of items brought back for personal                                       use or gifts are subject to duty at a flat 10% rate. (Your duty-free exemption may include 100 cigars, 200 cigarettes, and                                       one liter of wine, beer or liquor.)

There are two groups of destinations from which the duty-free exemption is higher. These are a group of 24 countries and dependencies                                       in the Caribbean and Central America from which the exemption is $600, and a group of U.S. insular possessions (the U.S. Virgin                                       Islands, American Samoa, and Guam), from which the exemption is $1,200. For details, you can consult your travel agent or                                       the U.S. Customs Service publication, *Know Before You Go* , listed below.

### Additional Sources of Information

The publication, ***Know Before You Go, Customs Hints for Returning U.S. Residents*** , contains information on key U.S. Customs regulations and procedures, including duty rates. Single copies of the publication                                       are free from any local Customs office or you may request copies by writing to: **U.S. Customs Service, P.O. Box 7407, Washington, D.C. 20044.**

**Restrictions on the Entry of Products from Overseas into the United States**

Fresh fruit, meat, vegetables, plants in soil, and many other agricultural products from abroad are prohibited entry into                                       the United States because they may carry foreign insects and diseases that could damage U.S. crops, forests, gardens, and                                       livestock. Other items may also be restricted, so it is advisable to be informed about such details before you return to the                                       United States. The restrictions also apply to mailed products from overseas. Prohibited items confiscated and destroyed at                                       U.S. international postal facilities have almost doubled in recent years. Further information can be found in the pamphlet,                                       ***Travelers' Tips on Prohibited Agricultural Products*** , obtainable from the Agricultural Affairs Office at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, or you may contact the **Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 4700 River Road, Unit 51, Riverdale, Maryland                                          20737** ; Internet http://www.usda.gov

**Wildlife and Wildlife Products**

If, while abroad, you purchased any articles made from endangered animals and plants or any live wild animals to bring back                                       as pets, you must be aware that according to U.S. laws and international treaties, it is a crime to bring many wildlife souvenirs                                       into the United States. Some prohibited items include those made from sea turtle shell, most reptile skins, crocodile leather,                                       ivory, furs from endangered cat species, as well as items made from coral reefs. So you should not buy wildlife souvenirs,                                       if you are unsure about being able to bring them legally into the United States. The penalties that you risk are severe, and                                       your purchases could be confiscated. To learn more about endangered wildlife and guidelines governing restrictions on imports                                       into the United States, consult the pamphlet, ***Buyer Beware!*** You can request a free copy from **TRAFFIC (U.S.A.) , World Wildlife Fund -- U.S., 1250 24th Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20037; telephone 202-293-4800** ; Internet http://www.worldwide.org

**Glazed Ceramic Purchases**

The article, ***An Unwanted Souvenir, Lead in Ceramic Ware*** , explains the danger of lead poisoning from some glazed ceramic ware sold abroad. For a free copy, contact: **Office of Consumer Affairs, U.S. Food and Drug Administration , 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD. 20857; telephone 1-800-532-4440** ; Internet http://www.fda.gov

**Addresses for U.S. Embassies and Consulates**

The publication *******Key Officers of Foreign Service Posts: Guide for Business Representatives* gives the names of key officers and the addresses, telephone numbers and fax numbers for all U.S. embassies, consulates,                                       and missions abroad.

### Other Important Publications

If you would like to request copies or inquire about price and availability, contact the **Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402; telephone: 202-512-1800; fax: 202-512-2250.**

*A Safe Trip Abroad* contains helpful precautions to minimize the chance of becoming a victim of terrorism and also provides other safety tips                                       for Americans traveling overseas.

*Tips for Americans Residing Abroad* provides useful information for U.S. citizens who are considering residency abroad, as well as for the more than three million                                       U.S. citizens who are currently residing overseas. Many details need to be considered before the decision is made to reside                                       abroad. This brochure will inform you about the wide range of services provided to American citizens by U.S. embassies and                                       consulates worldwide.

*Travel Tips for Older Americans* provides general information on passports, visas, health, currency, and suggestions for elderly U.S. citizens planning a                                       trip abroad.

***Tips for Travelers*** pamphlets provide advice prepared by the Bureau of Consular Affairs on travel to specific areas of the world. Depending on                                       the region discussed, a *Tips* pamphlet will cover such topics as currency and customs regulations, entry requirements, dual nationality, import and export                                       controls, vaccination requirements, restrictions on use of photography, and warnings on the use of drugs.
                  - *Tips for Travelers to Canada*
                  - *Tips for Travelers to the Caribbean*
                  - *Tips for Travelers to Central and South America*
                  - *Tips for Travelers to Mexico*
                  - *Tips for Travelers to the Middle East and North Africa*
                  - *Tips for Travelers to the People's Republic of China*
                  - *Tips for Travelers to South Asia*
                  - *Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa*
                  - *Tips for Travelers to Russia*

Additional information on foreign countries may be obtained in the ***Background Notes*** , published by the Bureau of Public Affairs of the Department of State. These are brief, factual pamphlets that contain information                                       for each country in the world and several selected international organizations. The approximately 170 *Background Notes* contain information about each country's culture, customs, geography, history, government, economy, and political conditions.                                       *Background Notes* also include a reading list, travel notes, and maps. Single copies are available from the U.S. Government Printing Office                                       and from the Department of State, Bureau of Public Affairs' web site at http://www.state.gov

**Brochures on Consular Services for Americans Abroad**

Single copies of the brochures listed below can be obtained free of charge by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope to:                                       **CA/P, Room 6831; Department of State; Washington, D.C. 20520-4818** . The brochures are also available by autofax service at **202-647-3000** and by clicking on the links below.

*Crisis Abroad -- What the State Department Does* summarizes the work of the State Department during a crisis overseas. For example, for concerned relatives and friends in                                       the U.S., the Department attempts to obtain information from local authorities abroad about Americans located in the disaster                                       area.

*The Office of Overseas Citizens Services* offers information about various types of assistance provided by the Office of Overseas Citizens Services to American citizens.                                       The office provides assistance to American citizens involved in the following concerns abroad: deaths, arrests, welfare/whereabouts                                       inquiries, and financial/medical emergencies.

*U.S. Consuls Help Americans Abroad* explains the emergency and non-emergency services that consular officers abroad provide to U.S. citizens.

The following brochure provides important, concise information on applying for a passport:

*Passports: Applying for Them the Easy Way* . It is available by autofax service on 202-647-3000.

You may also request a copy for 50 cents from the **Consumer Information Center, Pueblo, Colorado 81009.**

*Tips for Business Travelers to Nigeria* is designed to help U.S. business travelers identify Nigerian business scams, and to provide information about what the U.S.                                       Government can or cannot do to assist them. The brochure is available by autofax service at 202-647-3000. To receive a free                                       copy, you may send your request in a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the **Office of Overseas Citizens Services, Bureau of Consular Affairs (CA/OCS/ACS/AF), Room 4811, U.S. Department of State, Washington,                                          D.C. 20520-4818.**

**Other Information Sheets on Consular Matters**

The Department of State has information on other subjects of interest to traveling Americans. Single copies of the information                                       flyers listed below are free. Please send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to: **Office of Overseas Citizens Services, Bureau of Consular Affairs, Room 4817; Department of State; Washington, D.C. 20520-4818** . The information flyers are also available by autofax service at 202-647-3000.

You may request any of the following information flyers:
                  - *Dual Nationality (U.S./Other)***
                  - *Loss of U.S. Citizenship*
                  - *Marriage Abroad*
                  - *Foreign Military Service*
                  - *Claims to Inheritance Abroad*
                  - *Estates Abroad*
                  - *Tourist and Trade Complaints*

### Passport Agencies

**All public inquiries should be referred to the National Passport Information Center at telephone number:**

**Boston Passport Agency** Thomas P. O'Neill Fed. Bldg., Room 247 10 Causeway Street Boston, Massachusetts 02222-1094 Recording: 617-878-0900

**Chicago Passport Agency** Kluczynski Federal Bldg. 230 South Dearborn Street 18th Floor Chicago, Illinois 60604-1564 Recording: 312-341-6020 **Connecticut Passport Agency** 50 Norwalk Street Norwalk, CT 06854 Recording: 203-299-5443

**Honolulu Passport Agency** Prince Kuhio Federal Building 300 Ala Moana Blvd., Suite 1-330 Honolulu, Hawaii 96850 Recording: 808-522-8283

**Houston Passport Agency** Mickey Leland Fed. Bldg. 1919 Smith Street, Suite 1400 Houston, Texas 77002-8049 Recording: 713-751-0294

**Los Angeles Passport Agency** 1st Floor, Federal Building 11000 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 1000 Los Angeles, California 90024-3615 Recording: 310-575-5700

**Miami Passport Agency** 3rd Floor, Federal Office Bldg. 51 Southwest First Avenue Miami, Florida 33130-1680 Recording: 305-539-3600

**New Orleans Passport Agency** One Canal Place 365 Canal Street, Suite 1300 New Orleans, Louisiana 70130-6508 Recording: 504-412-2600

**New York Passport Agency** Greater New York Federal Building 376 Hudson Street 10th Floor New York, New York 10014 Recording: 212-206-3500

**Philadelphia Passport Agency** U.S. Customs House 200 Chestnut Street, Room 103 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19106-2970 Recording: 215-418-5937

**San Francisco Passport Agency** 95 Hawthorne Street 5th Floor San Francisco, California 94105-3901 Recording: 415-538-2700

**Seattle Passport Agency** Henry Jackson Building 915 Second Avenue, Suite 992 Seattle, Washington 98174-1091 Recording: 206-808-5700

**Washington Passport Agency** 1111 19th Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20522-1705 Recording: 202-647-0518

 

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