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Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:Ìý

• ²õ±ð±ðÌýgeneral advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• ²õ±ð±ðÌýgeneral advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read aboutÌýsafety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations andÌýget appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find outÌýmore aboutÌýFCDOÌýtravel advice.

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This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizenâ€� passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.Ìý

You should comply with all entry, visa and other conditions of entry. The authorities in the US set and enforce entry rules strictly. You may be liable to arrest or detention if you break the rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the .

Passport validity requirements

To enter the US, your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay.

If you’re travelling through another country on your way to or from the US, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries will only allow entry if you have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport.Ìý

Dual nationalsÌýÌý

US law requires US citizens to enter and exit the US using a US passport. Contact the for more information.

Visa requirements

To enter or transit through the US, you must have either anÌýÌýor a .

The US State Department has .

Applying for an ESTA

ESTA is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the US under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). You can apply for an ESTA via the or using the or .

All Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travellers intending to enter the US by land, sea and air will be required to obtain an approved ESTA prior to application for admission at land border ports of entry. Individuals who are not eligible to travel under the VWP may apply for a visa at any .

You may not be able to apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you have:

• been arrested (even if the arrest did not result in a criminal conviction)
• a criminal record
• been refused admission into, or have been deported from, the US
• previously overstayed under an ESTA visa waiver

Information on whether you are eligible for an ESTA visa waiver can be found in the help section of the .

You cannot normally apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you were in the following countries on or after March 2011:Ìý

• Iran
• Iraq
• Libya
• North Korea
• Somalia
• Sudan
• Syria
• Yemen

You cannot apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you travelled to or wereÌýin Cuba on or after 12 January 2021.Ìý

If you are not eligible for an ESTA, you must instead apply for a US visa.

Applying for a visa

The US Embassy in London has information on .

US visa appointments

Visa appointments at the US Embassy in London are limited. Plan your application as far ahead as possible before travel. If you need to travel urgently, you can request an expedited interview through the US Embassy’s appointment service provider.

The US Embassy has more .

Children and young people

Anyone aged 17 and under must:

• have a valid visa or ESTA on arrival
• be able to provide evidence about the purpose, location and length of their visit if asked by immigration officials
• have a letter of consent, preferably in English and notarised from one or both parents if travelling alone, with only one parent, or with someone who is not a parent or legal guardian

The US authorities can stop you entering the country if they have safeguarding concerns about a child. If this happens, the US authorities will take the child into their care, and their return from the US could take months. The FCDO cannot speed up the return of British nationals aged 17 and under from the US.

The US government has . If you have questions, contact the .

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see .

Customs rulesÌý

There are strict rules about . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Global Entry

The US Customs and Border Protection Trusted Traveller Program (TTP) allows pre-approved, low-risk travellers expedited clearance at some US airports. If you’re a British citizen, you canÌýregister to get a UK background check. If you pass the background checks, you’ll be invited to apply for .

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.ÌýÌýÌý

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice onÌýÌýand what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find outÌýhow to reduce your risk fromÌýterrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in the USA

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. You should remain aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities. Targets could include:

• crowded areas
• transportation networks
• public events

TheÌýÌýprovides current alerts within the US and its territories.

Crime

Protecting your belongings

Do not leave passports in rental cars, especially not in the boot. Gangs may target vehicles driven by people who look like tourists.

Violent crime

Violent crime and gun crime rarely affect tourists, but take care in unfamiliar areas. Try not to walk through quieter areas alone, especially at night. You can find public advisories and information about recent incidents on local law enforcement websites.

Mass shooting incidents can happen but are a very small percentage of murders. TheÌýUS Department of Homeland Security has advice on .

Research your destination before you travel and follow the advice of local authorities. Crime linked to illegal drugs is a major issue in Mexican states bordering Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas. Some foreign nationals have been victims of crime in the border regions, but there is no evidence they were targeted because of their nationality.

Protests

Protests are common and can become violent. Follow the instructions of local authorities who may introduce curfews or emergency orders. If you attend peaceful protests:

• be mindful of your surroundings
• move away if there are signs of trouble
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Laws and cultural differences

US states may have different laws. While you are in a state, you are subject to both that state’s laws as well as national (federal) law.

Personal ID

Always carry a passport showing you have permission to enter or remain in the US.

Alcohol laws

The national legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 21. Some states have different laws. If you are aged 20 or under, check state laws before drinking or buying alcohol.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Possession or trafficking of illegal drugs in the US can carry a long prison sentence and a fine. Check state laws to make sure you follow laws on possession and use of controlled substances. TheÌýUS Department of Justice provides a .

LGBT+ travellers

The US is a very diverse society and attitudes towards LGBT+ people differ hugely across the country. You can find more detail on LGBT+ issues in the US on theÌý website.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.Ìý

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in the US, see information on driving abroadÌýandÌý.

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in the US. You may need to get the 1949 version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well. IDP requirements vary in each state.ÌýFor more information, consult individual statesâ€� as well as theÌý.

You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

If you still have a paper driving licence, you must take another form of photo ID, such as your passport. You can also exchange your paper driving licence for a photocard licence.

Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience, a higher minimum age and holding an IDP.

Vehicle safety

When travelling by car, you should:

• check weather conditions before a long car journey, particularly in mountainous, isolated or desert areas where services may be limited
• not sleep in your car by the road or in rest areas
• avoid leaving any items on display in your car
• stay on main roads
• use well-lit car parks

If you’re in an accident, ask any other drivers involved to follow you to a public place and call the police.

Petrol stations

Petrol stations that do not display the price of fuel usually charge considerably more than the national average. They’re often close to tourist destinations and airports. Make sure you know the price of fuel before using these services.

Air travel

Before you travel, check the security measures you’re likely to face at the airport on theÌý website. If you have a medical condition or disability and need assistance, .

To monitor airport conditions in the US, check the website.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.Ìý

Snowstorms

Snowstorms can disrupt critical infrastructure, and cause power cuts, or delays and cancellations in major transport hubs. Contact your travel company or airline before you travel.

Hurricanes

The Atlantic hurricane season normally runs from June to November. The Pacific hurricane season normally runs from May to November. Hurricanes can affect coastal regions, Hawaii and Guam. The South Pacific tropical cyclone season normally runs from November to May and can affect American Samoa.

The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts that there is a very high likelihood of an “� in 2024. Travellers to the USA during the hurricane season should check the websites of local, State and Federal agencies (such as the ) for the latest conditions. You should also be aware of the possibility of disruption to flights.

You should:

• monitor approaching storms on theÌý
• follow instructions from local authorities, including evacuation orders from the .
• visit theÌýÌýfor information on preparing for extreme weather and evacuating
• check with your airline or travel agent about possible disruption to flights or airport services and follow their advice

Earthquakes

While earthquakes can happen anywhere without warning in the US, Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Washington and the entire Mississippi River Valley are at higher risk for earthquakes.

The FEMA website has advice about .

Tornadoes

Tornadoes can happen anytime depending on weather conditions. The FEMA website has advice about .

Volcanic eruptions Ìý

There is volcanic activity across parts of the US with Alaska, Hawaii, California, Washington and Oregon having the largest number of active volcanoes. You should follow the advice of local authorities, including any evacuation orders.

The FEMA website has advice about .

Wildfires

Forest and brush fires (wildfires) are a danger in many dry areas, particularly in canyons, hills and forests. High winds can mean fires spread rapidly.

You should:

• monitor local media andÌý
• follow the advice of local authorities, including any evacuation orders
• be careful in areas recently affected by wildfires, as there may be mudslides during heavy rainfall

For more information visit theÌýÌýandÌýÌýwebsites.

For information about wildfires in California, see theÌý website.

Arctic travel

Parts of the US are in the Arctic Circle, including some very remote areas of land and sea. Emergency medical assistance and search and rescue are limited in these areas. SeeÌýArctic travel safety advice.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you haveÌýappropriate travel insuranceÌýfor local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 911 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risksÌý

At least 8 weeks before your trip:ÌýÌý

• check the latest (or the , and )
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the

See (or the , and ), including:ÌýÌý

• Zika virus
• West Nile virus

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of the US. Read more about .Ìý

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

You cannot take some prescription drugs into the US. The US Food and Drug AdministrationÌýprovides information on .

UK prescriptions are not valid in the US. To get pharmacy drugs, you need a prescription from a US provider (available from an urgent care facility, emergency room or a doctor).

TravelHealthPro explainsÌý.

The NHS has information onÌý.

Healthcare in the US

Medical treatment is expensive and there are no special arrangements for British visitors.

Some hospitals ask non-US residents to pay a deposit when admitted. Send any requests for funds to your travel insurance provider first; only pay the hospital if you’re advised to do so by your travel insurance company. Your medical care will not be affected while your claim is processed.

Medical facilities in American Samoa are basic and you may need medical evacuation by air ambulance to Hawaii, New Zealand or Australia.

Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

Travel and mental health

ReadÌýFCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is alsoÌý.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in the US

Telephone: 911 (ambulance, fire, police).

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more aboutÌýchanging or cancelling travel plans, including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support fromÌýFCDO

FCDOÌýhas guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding in the US
• dealing with aÌýdeath in the US
• beingÌýarrested in the US
• getting help if you’re aÌývictim of crime
• what to do if you’reÌýin hospital
• if you areÌýaffected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack

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Help abroad  �

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Help in the UK  �

You can call�FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.  �

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)  �

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