YOUR TRIP ABROAD Before You Go There is a lot you can do to prepare for your trip, depending upon where, how long and why you are going. LEARN ABOUT THE PLACES YOU WILL VISIT Here are some good sources: A travel agent can provide brochures and tourist information about the countries you plan to visit. Your travel agent should also be able to provide you with the Department of State travel warning for any country you plan to visit, if one has been issued for the country. If your travel agent cannot provide travel warnings, you can obtain them 24-hours a day by calling (202) 647-5225. Look in your local bookstore and public library for books on foreign travel. Many countries have tourist information offices in large cities that can give you brochures and, in some cases, maps. International airlines may also supply you with travel brochures on the countries they serve. 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. Check on Travel Warnings The Department of State issues travel warnings to alert U.S. citizens to conditions overseas that may affect them adversely. Travel warnings are posted at U.S. passport agencies, Department of Commerce field offices, and at U.S. embassies and consulates around the world. They are distributed to the travel and airline industry and can be found through airline computer reservation systems. If you plan travel to an area or country where there is some concern about existing conditions, find out if there is a travel advisory by contacting the nearest passport agency or your travel agent or airline. You may also listen to recorded travel warnings, 24-hours a day. Call the Department of State's Office of Overseas Citizens Services at 202-647-5225. THINGS TO BE SURE YOU HAVE Travel document requirements vary from country to country, but you will need the following: a passport or other proof of citizenship, plus a visa or a tourist card. 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. Your travel agent or airline can tell you if you need a passport for the country you plan to visit. WARNING! Even if you are not required to have a passport to visit a country, U.S. Immigration requires you to prove your U.S. citizenship and identity when you 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 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 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. If you return to the United States with an expired passport, you are subject to a passport waiver fee of $100, payable to U.S. Immigration at the port of entry. All persons must have their own passport. Since January 1981, family members are not permitted to be included in each others' passports. WHEN TO APPLY Every year, demand for passports becomes heavy in January and begins to decline in August. You can help reduce U.S. Government expense and avoid delays by applying between September and December. However, even in 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 IN PERSON For your first passport, you must appear in person with a completed Form DSP-11, Passport Application, at one of the 13 U.S. passport agencies or at one of the several thousand federal or state courts or U.S. post offices authorized to accept passport applications. You may be able to find the addresses of passport acceptance facilities in your area in the government listings of your telephone book. If you cannot find a listing, contact one of the 13 U.S. passport agencies listed on page 39 at the end of this pamphlet. Applicants between age 13 and 18 must appear in person, accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. For children under age 13, a parent or legal guardian may appear on their behalf. If you have had a previous passport and wish to obtain another, you may be eligible to apply by mail (see page 10 below for details). WHAT TO BRING WHEN YOU APPLY 1. A properly completed, but unsigned, passport application (DSP-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 you cannot obtain a birth certificate, 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, 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 take all available proof of citizenship to the nearest U.S. passport agency and request assistance in proving your citizenship. 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 (federal, state, municipal) identification card. The following are NOT acceptable: - Social Security card. - Learner's or temporary driver's license. - Credit card of any type. - Any temporary or expired identity card or document. - Any document that has been altered or changed in any manner. If you are unable to present one of the first four documents to establish your identity, you must be accompanied by a person who has known you for at least 2 years and who is a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident alien of the United States. That person must sign an affidavit in the presence of the same person who executes the passport application. The witness will be required to establish his or her own identity. You must also submit some identification of your own. 4. Photographs. 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 or 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. Applicants age 18 and over who are required to appear in person, must pay $65 for their passport. This includes a $10 execution fee. Their passport is valid for 10 years. Applicants under age 18 must pay $40 for their passport. It is valid for 5 years. You may pay in person by check, bank draft, or money order. You may also pay in cash at a passport agency and at some, but not all post offices and clerks of court. HOW TO APPLY BY MAIL You may apply by mail if all of the following are true: - You have been issued a passport within 12 years prior to your new application. - You are able to submit your most recent U.S. passport with your new application. - Your previous passport was issued on or after your 16th birthday. - You use the same name as that on your most recent passport or you have had your name changed by marriage or court order. HOW TO PROCEED Obtain Form DSP-82, Application for Passport by Mail, from one of the offices accepting applications or from your travel agent, and 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 your passport will be processed in about two to three weeks. (3) Enclose your previous passport. (4) Enclose two identical 2x2 photographs (Specifications listed later in this file.). (5) The $55 passport fee. (The $10 acceptance 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) For processing, mail the completed application and attachments to one of the passport agencies listed at the back of this pamphlet. An incomplete or improperly prepared application will delay issuance of your passport. HOW TO PAY THE PASSPORT FEE The following forms of payment are acceptable when you apply by mail: - Bank draft or cashier's check. - Check: either certified, personal, or travelers (for exact amount). - Money order: U.S. postal, international, currency exchange, or bank. Do NOT send cash through the mail! WHEN YOU RECEIVE YOUR PASSPORT Sign it right away! Then fill in page 4, the personal notification data page. Your previous passport and the original documents that you may have submitted will be returned to you with your new passport. OTHER PASSPORT INFORMATION OBTAINING A PASSPORT IN AN EMERGENCY Passport agencies will expedite issuance in cases of genuine, documented emergencies. If you are leaving within five days and need a passport, you can pay to have your passport delivered to you by express mail. But you must arrange and pay for this in advance. Check with the post office or court house that accepts your application or with the nearest passport agency for specific details. 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, should you become seriously ill or involved in some other emergency, they could travel without delay. 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, official, diplomatic), 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 Passport Agency in Washington, D.C. for processing. ADDITIONAL VISA PAGES If you require additional visa pages before your passport expires, 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 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 DSP-19, Passport Amendment/Validation Application, which is available from any office that is authorized to accept passport applications. Submit the DSP-19 along with proof of the name change (a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or certified court order) to the nearest passport agency. There is no fee for this service. AN ALTERED OR MUTILATED PASSPORT If you mutilate or alter your U.S. passport 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 of 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 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, report the loss or theft immediately to Passport Services, 1425 K Street, N.W., Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20524 or to the nearest passport agency. Should your passport be lost or stolen abroad, 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, photocopy the data page of your passport and keep it in a separate place. In addition, leave the passport number, date, and place of issuance with a relative or friend in the United States. OTHER QUESTIONS ABOUT PASSPORTS? Additional passport information may be obtained from the passport agencies listed at the end of this pamphlet. OBTAIN VISAS A visa is an endorsement or stamp placed in your passport by a foreign government that permits you to visit that country for a specified purpose and a limited time, for example, a 3-month tourist visa. It is advisable to obtain visas before you leave the United States because you will not be able to obtain visas for some countries once you have departed. Apply directly to the embassy or nearest consulate of each country you plan to visit, or consult a travel agent. Passport agencies cannot help you obtain visas. "Foreign Entry Requirements" 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 for $0.50 from the Consumer Information Center, Pueblo, Colorado 81009. Note: The publication is updated annually but may not reflect the most current requirements. It is advisable to verify the latest visa requirements with the embassy or consulate of each country 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 will also need to fill out a form, and you may need one or more photographs. Many visas require a fee. The process may take several weeks for each visa, so apply well in advance of your trip. TOURIST CARD If the country you plan to visit only requires a tourist card, 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 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 your reentry into the United States. Information on U.S. Immigration requirements are later in this file.. IMMUNIZATIONS Under international health regulations adopted by the World Health Organization, a country may require international certificates of vaccination against yellow fever and cholera. Typhoid vaccinations are not required for international travel, but are recommended for areas where there is risk of exposure. Smallpox vaccinations are no longer given. Check your health care records to insure that your measles, mumps, rubella, polio, diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis immunizations are up-to-date. Medication to deter malaria and other preventative measures are advisable for certain areas. No immunizations are needed to return to the United States. Information on immunization requirements, U.S. Public Health Service recommendations, and other health hints are included in the book, Health Information for International Travel, available for $5.00 from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402. You may also obtain such information from local and state health departments or physicians. This information is also available on the Centers for Disease Control 24-hour hotline: 404-639-2572. It is not necessary to be vaccinated against a disease you will not be exposed to 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 you were not vaccinated against. Check 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 obtained for $2 from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402 or Government Printing Office bookstores. Keep it with your passport. Some countries require certification from long-term visitors that they are free of the human immuno-deficiency virus (HIV). Generally, this has little bearing on tourists and short-term visitors. Check with the embassy or consulate of the countries you will visit for the latest information. HEALTH INSURANCE For travelers who become seriously ill or injured overseas, obtaining medical treatment and hospital care can be costly. The Social Security Medicare program does not cover hospital and medical services outside the United States. Before you leave the United States, learn what medical services your health insurance will cover abroad. If your health insurance policy does not cover you abroad, you are urged to purchase a temporary health policy that does. There are short-term health and emergency assistance policies designed for travelers. You can find the names of such companies from your travel agent, your health insurance company, or from advertisements in travel publications. In addition to health insurance, many policies include trip cancellation, baggage loss, and travel accident insurance in the same package. Some travelers check companies have protection policies available for those who purchase travelers checks. MEDICAL EVACUATION One of the chief advantages of health and emergency assistance policies is that they often include coverage for medical evacuation to the United States. Medical evacuation can easily cost $5000 depending upon your location and medical condition. Even if your regular health insurance covers you for emergencies abroad, consider purchasing a supplemental insurance policy to cover medical evacuation. Whichever health insurance coverage you choose for overseas, remember to bring your policy identity card and claim forms with you. HOW TO BRING MONEY TRAVELERS CHECKS Do not carry large amounts of cash. Take most of your money in travelers 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 travelers checks you can get replacements quickly. CREDIT CARDS Some credit cards can be used worldwide, even for cash advances. Keep track of your credit card purchases so as not to 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 in a separate place from the cards. Always report the loss or theft of your credit cards or travelers checks immediately to the companies and notify the local police. If you will stay in one place for some time, 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. PREPARE FOR EMERGENCY FUNDS Keep the telephone number for your bank in the United States with you in the event you run out of cash and need to transfer money. In some countries, major banks and certain travel agencies can help you 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, 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, or at foreign exchange windows or even vending machines at many international airports in the United States. Some countries regulate the amount of local currency 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, foreign exchange firm, your travel agent, or the embassy or consulate of the countries 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 - DON'T 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 avoid grab-and-run robbery. OTHER THINGS TO ARRANGE AHEAD LODGING RESERVE IN ADVANCE 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 meet your needs. Therefore, when possible, reserve your lodging in advance and reconfirm your reservations along the way. During peak tourist season, it is important have a hotel reservation for at least the first night you arrive in a foreign city. An alternative to hotels and pensions is the youth hostel system, offering 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 often required. You may write to: American Youth Hostels, P.O. Box 37613, Washington, D.C. 20013-7613. 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. STUDENT TRAVELERS Students can save money on transportation and accommodations, and obtain other discounts if they have an International Student Identity Card. This card is available with proof of student status and a small fee from: Council on International Educational Exchange; 205 East 42nd Street; New York, New York 10017. Membership also provides some accident and health insurance while abroad. TRANSPORTATION At the time of publication, U.S. citizens traveling abroad are required to pay a $12 federal inspection fee and a $6 federal departure tax that are included in the price of the air ticket. 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 from 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. Before you purchase a charter flight or tour package, read the contract carefully. Unless it guarantees they will deliver services promised or give a full refund, consider purchasing trip 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, to learn if the company has a complaint record . DRIVER'S LICENSE/AUTO INSURANCE If you intend to drive overseas, check with the embassy or consulate of the countries you will visit to learn their driver's license, road permit, and auto insurance requirements. If possible, obtain road maps before you go. Many countries do not recognize a U.S. driver's license. Most, however, accept an international driver's permit. Before departure, obtain one at a local office of an automobile association. You must be at least age 18, and you will need two passport-size photographs and your valid U.S. license. Certain countries require road permits instead of tolls to use their divided highways and will fine drivers without a permit. Car rental agencies overseas usually provide auto insurance, but in some countries, the required coverage is minimal. A good rule of thumb when renting a car overseas is to purchase 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 that neighbor 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 Learn about U.S. Customs regulations. Foreign-made personal articles taken abroad are subject to duty and tax unless you have proof of prior possession such as a receipt, bill of sale, an insurance policy, or a jeweler's appraisal. If you do not have proof of prior possession, items such as foreign-made watches, cameras, or tape recorders that can be identified by serial number or permanent markings may be taken to the Customs office nearest you or at the port of departure for registration before departing the United States. The certificate of registration provided can expedite free entry of these items when you return. DOCUMENTATION FOR MEDICATIONS If you go abroad with preexisting medical problems, carry a letter from you doctor describing your condition, including information on any prescription medicines you must take. You should also have the generic names of the drugs. Leave medicines in their original, labeled containers. These precautions make customs processing easier. A doctor's certificate, however, may not suffice as authorization to transport all prescription drugs to all foreign countries. Travelers have innocently been arrested for drug violations when carrying items not considered to be narcotics in the United States. To ensure you do not violate the drug laws of the countries you visit, consult the embassy or consulate of those countries for precise information before leaving the United States. If you have allergies, reactions to certain medicines, or other unique medical problems, consider wearing a medical alert bracelet or carrying a similar warning. Several private organizations provide listings of physicians to international travelers. Membership in these organizations is generally free, although a donation may be requested. Membership entitles the traveler to a number of 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. PLACES TO RECEIVE MAIL If you are traveling for an extended period, you may want to arrange to pick up mail or messages. Some banks and international credit card companies handle mail for customers at their overseas branches. General Delivery (Poste Restante) services at post offices in most countries will hold mail for you. U.S. embassies and consulates do not handle private mail. LEARN ABOUT DUAL NATIONALITY Whether you are a U.S. citizen from birth or were naturalized as a U.S. citizen, a foreign country may claim you as its citizen if: - You were born there. - Your parent is or was a citizen of that country. - You are married to a citizen of that country. 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 YOUR ITINERARY - LEAVE A PAPER TRAIL 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 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, travelers checks, and airline ticket numbers. Leave a copy at home and carry a copy with you, separate from your valuables. WHILE YOU ARE OVERSEAS HOW TO DEAL WITH THE UNEXPECTED If you change your travel plans, miss your return flight, or extend your trip, be sure to notify relatives or friends back home. Should you find yourself in an area of civil unrest or natural disaster, let them know as soon as you can that you are safe. In addition, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to register your presence and to keep the U.S. consul informed of your whereabouts. SAFETY TIPS PROTECT YOUR PASSPORT Your passport is the most valuable document you will carry abroad. It confirms your U.S. citizenship. 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 traveling. You may be required to leave your passport at the hotel reception desk overnight so 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 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 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 either you need to show it when you cash travelers checks or the country you are in 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 or an exposed pocket. Whenever possible, leave your passport in the hotel safe, not in an empty hotel room or 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! Prevent theft by carrying your belongings in a secure manner. Consider not carrying a purse or wallet when going on 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 undetected. Be especially cautious in a large crowd--in the subway, marketplace, at a festival, or if surrounded by groups of vagrant children. Do not make it easy for thieves! FINANCIAL AND SHOPPING TIPS CURRENCY 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, nonreceipt 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. THE VALUE ADDED TAX Some European countries levy a value added tax (VAT) on the items 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 it to you by mail. Ask the store clerk for an application to apply for the refund. The VAT refund is only for items 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, check with the country's tourist office to learn the local requirements. THINGS TO BEWARE OF PURCHASING WILDLIFE SOUVENIRS Be careful when you buy articles made from animals and plants or 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 into the United States legally. 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 they are legal for import into the United States. More information follows later. 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 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. More information later on in this file. ANTIQUES Some 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 may also levy fines on the purchaser. Americans have been arrested and prosecuted for purchasing antiques. 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 well aware of the situation. They can tell you about the local laws and the correct procedures to follow. CUSTOMS Keep all receipts for items you buy overseas. They will be helpful in making your U.S. Customs declaration when you return. LEGAL TIPS OBEY FOREIGN LAWS When you are in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws. Learn about local laws and regulations and obey them. Avoid areas of unrest and disturbance. Deal only with authorized outlets when exchanging money or buying airline tickets and travelers checks. Do not deliver a package for anyone unless you know the person well and are certain the package does not contain drugs or other contraband. Before you sell personal effects, such as clothing, cameras, or jewelry, learn the local regulations regarding such sales. Adhere strictly to local laws because the penalties 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, and 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, check with local authorities or at the Consular Section of the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. DRUG ARRESTS About 3000 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. You are subject to foreign, not U.S. laws overseas, and you will find, if arrested, that: - Few countries provide a jury trial. - Most countries do not accept bail. - Pretrial detention, often in solitary confinement, may last months. - Prisons may lack even minimal comforts--bed, toilet, wash basin. - Diets are often inadequate and require supplements from relatives and friends. - Officials may not speak English. - Physical abuse, confiscation of personal property, degrading or inhumane treatment, and extortion are possible. 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 some countries. Do not get involved with illegal drugs overseas. It can spoil more than your vacation. It can ruin your life! LEGAL AID Because you are subject to local laws abroad, there is little that a U.S. consul can do for you if you encounter legal difficulties. For example, a consular officer cannot get you out of jail. What American officials can do is limited by both foreign and U.S. laws. The U.S. Government has neither funds nor authority to pay your legal fees or related expenses. Although U.S. consular officers cannot serve as attorneys or 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, 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, be persistent and try to have someone get in touch 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 you are not discriminated against under local law. 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 WHEN TO REGISTER WITH THE U.S. EMBASSY 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 hurricane. - If you plan to go to a country where there are no U.S. officials. In such cases, register in an adjacent country, leave an itinerary, and ask about conditions in the country you will visit and what third country may represent U.S. interests there. - If you plan to stay in a country for longer than one month. Registration makes your presence and whereabouts known in case it is necessary for a consular employee to contact you in an emergency. During a disaster overseas, American consular officers offer assistance to Americans and can even assist in evacuation when that becomes necessary. But they cannot assist you if they do not know where your are. Registration also makes it easier to apply for a replacement passport if yours is lost or stolen. If you are traveling with an escorted tour to areas experiencing political uncertainty or other problems, find out if registration is being done for you by your tour operator. If it is not, or if you are traveling on your own, leave a copy of your itinerary at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate soon after arrival. WHAT U.S. CONSULS CAN DO U.S. consular officers are located at U.S. embassies and consulates in most countries overseas. They are available to advise and help you if you are in any serious trouble. 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. IF ILL OR INJURED Should you become ill while abroad, 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 consul can help you find medical assistance from that list 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. Consular officers cannot supply you with medication. In an emergency when 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. 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 The Department of State and its embassies and consulates abroad have become increasingly concerned about international adoptions because of an increase in illegal activities by some intermediaries and adoption agencies. Illegal adoption practices can cause great difficulty, financial strain, and emotional upheaval for adopting parents. If you are a prospective adopting parent, beware of any agency or attorney claiming to be able to streamline established procedures. Because of irregular activities, foreign governments sometimes determine that an adoption in process is illegal and refuse to finalize the adoption. For more information, you may write for a free pamphlet, International Adoptions. Send a self-addressed, triple-stamped 9"x12" envelope to: Office of Children's Issues (CA/OCS/CI), Room 4811, Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520. If you are planning to adopt from a particular country, mention that in your request, because The Office of Children's Issues has specific information on the adoption process in certain countries. 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, complete the address page in the front of your passport. 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. 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 NONEMERGENCY SERVICES Consular employees provide nonemergency services as well. These include information on Selective Service registration, travel advisories, 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 Consular officers will do their best to assist U.S nationals abroad. However, they must devote priority time and energies to those Americans who find themselves in the most serious legal, medical, or financial difficulties. 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 travelers checks; or settle disputes with hotel managers. They can, how-ever, tell you how to get assistance on these and other matters. WHEN YOU RETURN RETURN TRANSPORTATION Reconfirm your return reservation at least 72 hours before departure. Whenever possible, obtain a written confirmation. If you do it by phone, record the time, day, and the agent's name who took the 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 that can be as high as $50. Ask the airline or a travel agent about this. Make certain to have enough money at the end of your trip to 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 handy. 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. 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 30 days, and provided the traveler can present the purchases upon his or her arrival at the port of entry. The next $1000 worth of items brought back for personal use or gifts is subject to duty at a flat rate of 10%. 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, consult your travel agent or the U.S. Customs Service publication, Know Before You Go, listed directly below. ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION CUSTOMS 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 are free from any local Customs office or write: U.S. Customs Service, P.O. Box 7407, Washington, D.C. 20044. AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS Travelers Tips on Bringing Food, Plant, and Animal Products Into the United States lists entry requirements for these items from most parts of the world. Fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, potted plants, pet birds, and other items are prohibited or restricted from entry into the United States. The publication is available from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 613 Federal Bldg., 6505 Belcrest Road, Hyattsville, MD 20782. WILDLIFE AND WILDLIFE PRODUCTS Buyer Beware! provides general guidelines governing restrictions on imports of wildlife and wildlife products into the United States. For a free copy, write to the Publications Unit, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C. 20240. Additional information on importing wildlife and wildlife products can be obtained through TRAFFIC USA, World Wildlife Fund, 1250 24th Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20037. 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, write: U.S. Food and Drug Administration, HFI-40, Rockville, MD. 20857. U.S. EMBASSY ADDRESSES Key Officers of Foreign Service Posts gives the names of key officers and the addresses for all U.S. embassies, consulates, and missions abroad. This publication is updated three times a year. The single copy price is $1.75. To obtain a copy, write to: Superintendent of Documents U.S. Government Printing Office Washington, D.C. 20402. You may also order by telephone: 202-783-3238. OLDER AMERICANS Travel Tips for Older Americans provides information on passports, visas, health, currency, and suggestions for older Americans planning a trip abroad. Copies are available for $1 from the U.S. Government Printing Office (address above). SAFE TRAVEL A Safe Trip Abroad contains helpful precautions to minimize the chance of becoming a victim of terrorism and also provides other safety tips. To obtain a copy for $1, write to the U.S. Government Printing Office. FOREIGN COUNTRY INFORMATION Background Notes are brief, factual pamphlets, one for each country of the world and some for selected international organizations. The approximately 170 Notes contain information on each country's people, culture, geography, history, government, economy, and political conditions. Background Notes also include a reading list, travel notes, and maps. Single copies are available for $1 from the U.S. Government Printing Office. 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. Single copies of the following Tips pamphlets are for sale for $l from the U.S. Government Printing Office. - 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 and the Newly Independent States. BROCHURES ON CONSULAR SERVICES FOR AMERICANS ABROAD Single copies of the following brochures can be obtained free by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope (SASE) to: CA/P/PA, Room 6831; Department of State; Washington, D.C. 20520-4818. Crisis Abroad - What the State Department Does summarizes the work of the State Department during a crisis. 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 Overseas Citizens Services gives information about the assistance the Center provides to American citizens in four major categories: deaths, arrests, welfare/whereabouts inquiries, and financial/medical emergencies. US Consuls Help Americans Abroad explains the emergency and nonemergency services that consular officers abroad provide to U.S. citizens. OTHER INFORMATION SHEETS ON CONSULAR MATTERS The Department of State has information on other subjects of interest to traveling Americans. Single copies of the following information sheets are free. Please send a SASE to: CA/OCS/CCS, Room 4817; Department of State; Washington, D.C. 20520-4818. Ask for any of the following: - 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 Apply Early For Your Passport! Boston Passport Agency Thomas P. O'Neill Fed. Bldg., Room 247 10 Causeway Street Boston, Massachusetts 02222 *Recording: 617-565-6698 Public Inquiries: 617-565-6990 Chicago Passport Agency Suite 380, Kluczynski Federal Bldg. 230 South Dearborn Street Chicago, Illinois 60604-1564 *Recording: 312-353-5426 Public Inquiries: 312-353-7155 or 7163 Honolulu Passport Agency Room C-106, New Federal Bldg. 300 Ala Moana Blvd. Honolulu, Hawaii 96850 *Recording: 808-541-1919 Public Inquiries: 808-541-1918 Houston Passport Agency Suite 1100, Mickey Leland Fed. Bldg. 1919 Smith Street Houston, Texas 77002 *Recording: 713-653-3159 Public Inquiries: 713-653-3153 Los Angeles Passport Agency Room 13100, 11000 Wilshire Boulevard Los Angeles, California 90024-3614 *Recording: 310-575-7070 Public Inquiries: 310-575-7075 Miami Passport Agency 3rd Floor, Federal Office Bldg. 51 Southwest First Avenue Miami, Florida 33130-1680 *Recording: 305-536-5395 (English) 305-536-4448 (Spanish) Public Inquiries: 305-536-4681 New Orleans Passport Agency Postal Services Building 701 Loyola Avenue, Rm. T-12005 New Orleans, Louisiana 70013-1931 *Recording: 504-589-6728 Public Inquiries: 504-589-6161 New York Passport Agency Room 270, Rockefeller Center 630 Fifth Avenue New York, New York 10111-0031 *Recording: 212-541-7700 Public Inquiries: 212-541-7710 Philadelphia Passport Agency Room 4426, Federal Bldg. 600 Arch Street Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19106-1684 *Recording: 215-597-7482 Public Inquiries: 215-597-7480 San Francisco Passport Agency Suite 200, Tishman Speyer Bldg. 525 Market Street San Francisco, California 94105-2773 *Recording: 415-744-4444 Public Inquiries: 415-744-4010 Seattle Passport Agency Room 992, Federal Office Bldg. 915 Second Avenue Seattle, Washington 98174-1091 *Recording: 206-553-7941 Public Inquiries: 206-553-7945 Stamford Passport Agency One Landmark Square Broad and Atlantic Streets Stamford, Connecticut 06901-2767 *Recording: 203-325-4401 Public Inquiries: 203-325-3538, 3530 Washington Passport Agency 1111 19th Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20524-0002 *Recording: 202-647-0518 Public Inquiries: 202-326-6020 *Twenty-four hour recording includes general passport information, passport agency location, hours of operation, and information regardingy emergency passport services during non-working hours