Travel Warnings to USA: Essential Safety Advice for Tourists

Risk Level: United States – Exercise Normal Precautions

When considering travel to the United States, it’s advised to exercise normal security precautions. This designation, while seemingly straightforward, encompasses a wide range of potential issues that travelers should be aware of to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. While vast and diverse, the USA, like any popular tourist destination, presents its own set of unique challenges and potential travel warnings. Understanding these warnings is crucial for informed travel planning.

Safety and Security: Navigating Potential Hazards

Border with Mexico: Increased Vigilance Required

The border region with Mexico, particularly in states like California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, experiences a higher frequency of criminal activities linked to drug trafficking. Travelers approaching or crossing this border should be exceptionally cautious.

Specific travel warnings for the US-Mexico border include:

Heightened Vigilance: Remain alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.
Official Crossings Only: Utilize only officially recognized border crossings to ensure safety and legality.
Avoid Night Travel: Refrain from traveling in the border region during nighttime hours when risks are amplified.

Crime: Understanding and Mitigating Risks

Crime in the USA varies significantly by location. Understanding the types of crime and where they are more prevalent is key to staying safe.

Petty Crime: Common in Urban and Tourist Areas

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is a concern, especially in bustling urban centers and popular tourist hotspots. These opportunistic crimes can occur quickly and unexpectedly.

Preventative measures against petty crime:

Never Leave Valuables Unattended: Do not leave bags, wallets, phones, or other valuables unattended, particularly in parked cars, including rental vehicles, even if placed in the trunk.
Secure Belongings: Ensure your personal belongings, including passports, travel documents, and wallets, are always secure and within your sight. Consider using money belts or concealed pouches.

Violent Crime: Concentrated in Specific Areas

Violent crime in major urban areas is more likely to occur in impoverished neighborhoods, especially during the hours between dusk and dawn. Intoxication often plays a role in these incidents. While gang activity and organized crime are factors, isolated incidents by individuals also occur. While tourists are less frequently targeted, the risk is not entirely absent.

Safety advice regarding violent crime:

Situational Awareness: Be acutely aware of your surroundings at all times, particularly when exploring unfamiliar areas.
Check Crime Statistics: Before venturing out, especially in the evening, research official neighborhood crime statistics to understand the local risk level. The FBI’s Crime Data Explorer is a valuable resource.
Non-Resistance: If confronted by robbers, remain calm and do not resist. Your safety is paramount, and material possessions can be replaced.

Gun Violence: A Pervasive Issue

The United States has a high rate of firearm ownership, and in many states, the open carrying of firearms is legal for US citizens. This contributes to a societal context where gun violence is a more significant concern than in many other developed countries.

Mass shooting incidents, resulting in casualties, are a tragic reality in the USA. While tourists are rarely directly involved, the risk of being caught in a “wrong place, wrong time” scenario is present.

Preparedness for gun violence:

Active Shooter Awareness: Familiarize yourself with how to react in an active shooter situation. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency provides a helpful Active Shooter Event Quick Reference Guide. This guide outlines Run, Hide, Fight principles.

Home Break-ins: Risks for Vacation Homeowners

Canadians and other international visitors who own holiday homes in the USA have unfortunately become targets for break-ins and burglaries.

Home security tips:

Secure Entry Points: Always ensure windows and doors are securely locked at night and whenever you are away from your property. Consider installing alarm systems and security cameras for added protection.

Common Criminal Strategies: Recognizing and Avoiding Ploys

Be vigilant for robbery tactics specifically targeting tourists, particularly on highways near airports and popular tourist locations.

Common ploys and how to respond:

The “Vehicle Issue” Ploy: Criminals may signal to tourists, indicating a supposed problem with their vehicle, hoping to lure them to stop and expose valuables.
Windshield Obstruction: Items might be thrown at your windshield to obscure vision, forcing you to pull over and creating an opportunity for robbery.

If you suspect such a ploy:

Do Not Stop on the Roadside: Avoid pulling over immediately onto the shoulder of the road.
Drive to Safety: Activate your hazard lights and slowly drive to a well-lit gas station, police station, or another safe, populated public area.

Demonstrations: Potential for Disruption

Demonstrations and public gatherings can occur in the USA, sometimes with little notice. Even peaceful protests can escalate and become violent, potentially leading to disruptions in traffic and public transportation.

Safety measures during demonstrations:

Avoid Demonstration Areas: Stay away from areas where demonstrations or large gatherings are taking place.
Follow Local Authority Instructions: Adhere to any instructions given by local law enforcement or authorities.
Monitor Local Media: Keep track of local news outlets for information about ongoing demonstrations and potential disruptions. Resources like Mass gatherings (large-scale events) can provide further guidance.

Fraud: Protecting Your Finances

Credit card and ATM fraud, including sophisticated debit card cloning, is a persistent threat. Exercise caution when using your financial cards.

Protecting yourself from fraud:

Card Handling Vigilance: Pay close attention whenever your credit or debit cards are being handled by others, such as in restaurants or stores.
Secure ATM Usage: Use ATMs located in well-lit public areas, inside banks, or reputable businesses. Avoid isolated or dimly lit ATMs.
Inspect Card Readers: Be wary of card readers that appear irregular, loose, or have unusual attachments, as these could be skimming devices.
PIN Security: Cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN at ATMs or point-of-sale terminals.
Regular Account Monitoring: Frequently check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions and report them immediately. Refer to resources on Overseas fraud for more information.

Terrorism: A Global Threat

Like many countries, the United States faces a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could potentially occur at any time and in various locations.

Potential terrorist targets could include:

Government buildings, including schools and universities.
Places of worship (churches, synagogues, mosques, temples).
Airports, train stations, bus terminals, and other transportation hubs and networks.
Public areas frequented by tourists, such as popular attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centers, markets, and hotels.

Staying safe in the context of terrorism:

Heightened Awareness: Maintain a high level of awareness of your surroundings, especially in public places and crowded areas.
Public Alert System: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) operates the National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS). Be aware of any alerts issued through this system, which communicates information about credible terrorist threats.

Hiking and Mountaineering: Safety in the Wilderness

For those planning outdoor activities like hiking, backpacking, or skiing, especially in remote areas, specific safety precautions are necessary.

Wilderness safety guidelines:

Never Go Alone: Avoid hiking or mountaineering alone. Always travel with a companion or in a group.
Experienced Guides: Hire experienced guides from reputable companies for challenging hikes or climbs.
Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance that includes coverage for helicopter rescue and medical evacuation, which can be essential in remote areas.
Route Planning: Obtain detailed information about hiking routes or ski slopes before setting out. Stay on marked trails and slopes and avoid venturing into unmarked or hazardous areas.
Physical Condition: Ensure you are in adequate physical condition to meet the demands of your planned activities.
Proper Equipment and Knowledge: Be properly equipped with appropriate gear and well-informed about weather conditions and other potential hazards.
Inform Someone of Your Itinerary: Inform a family member or friend of your detailed itinerary, including expected return times.
Altitude Sickness Awareness: Learn to recognize the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal at high elevations.

Air Travel: Domestic Airline Safety

While international airlines operating to and from the USA are generally held to high international safety standards, assessments of domestic airlines within the USA are not made by all international travel advisory bodies.

Considerations for domestic air travel:

Research Domestic Airlines: If you are concerned about domestic air travel safety, research the safety records and ratings of specific airlines operating within the USA. Resources like Information about foreign domestic airlines can offer context.

Entry and Exit Requirements: Ensuring Smooth Border Crossing

Entry and exit regulations are determined by each country. It is crucial to meet the specific requirements of the United States to avoid issues at the border.

Passport Requirements

Proof of Canadian citizenship is mandatory for entry into the U.S. Various documents can satisfy this requirement depending on your mode of travel.

Travel by Air: Passport or NEXUS Card Essential

Canadian citizens traveling to the United States by air, including those in transit, must present one of the following:

Valid Passport: A passport valid for the entire duration of your stay in the United States.
Valid NEXUS Card: A NEXUS card can be used at designated self-serve kiosks at participating airports for expedited entry.

This requirement applies to all Canadian citizens, including children.

Travel by Land or Water: WHTI-Compliant Documents

For land or water border crossings, the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) dictates acceptable documents for Canadian citizens aged 16 and older:

Valid Passport
Trusted Traveler Program card (e.g., NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
Enhanced Driver’s Licence (EDL) or Enhanced Identification Card (EIC): Issued by provinces or territories with U.S.-approved EDL/EIC programs.
Secure Certificate of Indian Status

These WHTI-compliant documents must be valid for your entire stay in the United States.

For Canadian citizens aged 15 years and under entering by land or water, acceptable documents include:

Passport
Original or copy of a Birth Certificate
Original Canadian Citizenship Certificate

Visas: Visa-Free Travel for Many Canadians

Canadian visitors generally can stay in the United States for up to 6 months without needing a visa. You must declare your intended length of stay upon arrival.

Visa Exceptions: While most Canadian citizens don’t require visas for tourism, business, or transit from Canada, exceptions exist. Consult Canadians Requiring Visas from the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Canada for details.

Canadian Permanent Residents: Potential Visa Requirement

Canadian permanent residents may need a non-immigrant visa to enter the United States.

Visa Application: Obtain any necessary visa from U.S. authorities before traveling.
Valid Passport: You must also possess a valid passport from your country of citizenship. Refer to Cross U.S. Borders by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Visa Waiver Program (VWP): ESTA for Eligible Nationalities

Citizens of countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days.

ESTA Pre-Authorization: Instead, obtain pre-travel authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to your departure.

U.S. Permanent Residents: Green Card Requirement

Canadians who are U.S. permanent residents must present a valid U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) for entry.

Green Card for Entry: Ensure your Green Card is valid when re-entering the U.S. See International travel as a U.S. Permanent Resident from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

First Nations and Native Americans Born in Canada: Special Provisions

Members of Canada’s First Nations and Native Americans born in Canada have specific entry privileges.

Free Entry for Specific Purposes: They may freely enter the United States for employment, study, retirement, investment, or immigration purposes.

Working in the United States: Business Travel and Work Visas

Most Canadian business travelers can apply for admission at a U.S. port of entry without a non-immigrant visa.

Specific Documentation: However, travelers entering in certain business-related categories must present specific documents to prove eligibility.
Work Visa Consultation: If you plan to work in the United States, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for detailed visa requirements.

Studying in the United States: SEVIS Registration

Canadian citizens do not need visas to study or participate in student exchange programs in the U.S.

SEVIS Registration: However, registration with SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System), a U.S. student tracking system, is mandatory.
SEVIS Form Presentation: Students must present their SEVIS registration form to CBP officers upon each entry into the United States.

Length of Stay: Adhering to Immigration Rules

If you intend to stay in the United States longer than 6 months, you must apply for an extension.

Extension Application: Apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within the United States and before your initial authorized stay expires.
Temporary Visitor Proof: Immigration officers may require you to demonstrate that you are a temporary visitor and not attempting to reside in the U.S.
Strict Enforcement: The U.S. government rigorously enforces immigration regulations. Overstaying your authorized period can lead to serious consequences, including detention and deportation.
Re-entry After Overstay: While there is no fixed waiting period to re-enter after an authorized stay, CBP officers may scrutinize frequent or lengthy stays, requiring proof that you are primarily residing in Canada.

Biometrics: Fingerprints and Photographs

Upon entry to the United States, non-U.S. citizens are generally required to provide biometrics (digital fingerprints and a photograph).

Exemptions for Most Canadians: Most Canadian citizens are exempt from this requirement.
Exceptions: Biometrics may be required for Canadians who:
- Need a visa or a waiver of ineligibility.
- Must obtain an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record form.
Random Screenings: Random biometric screenings of exempt Canadians have occurred at borders and airports.
Addressing Wrongful Collection: If you believe your biometric information was wrongfully collected, you can address the issue with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Electronic Devices: Border Searches

U.S. border agents have the legal authority to search your electronic devices (phones, computers, tablets) when entering the United States.

No Warrant Required: They do not need to provide a reason or warrant to request access to your devices, including passwords.
Device Seizure and Entry Denial: Refusal to cooperate may result in device seizure, travel delays, or denial of entry (if you are not a U.S. citizen).
Airplane Mode Precaution: Before crossing the border, put your devices in airplane mode to prevent accidental downloading of remote files. Refer to Inspection of Electronic Devices by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Preclearance: U.S. Entry Clearance in Canada

Preclearance facilities at select Canadian airports allow travelers to undergo U.S. customs and immigration checks before departing Canada.

U.S. Entry Requirements Apply: When using preclearance, you are still subject to all U.S. entry requirements and will be interviewed by a U.S. preclearance officer.
Inspection Authority: Preclearance officers can inspect your luggage and refuse entry into the United States.
Canadian Law in Preclearance Areas: While in a preclearance area, you are subject to Canadian law, including the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and Canadian criminal law.
Right to Withdraw: You can withdraw your request to enter the U.S. and leave the preclearance area at any time, unless an officer suspects you of making a false statement or obstruction. In such cases, detention under Canadian law is possible.
False Statements are Illegal: Knowingly making false or deceptive statements to a preclearance officer is an offense under Canada’s Preclearance Act. See Preclearance Locations by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Criminal Record: Potential Entry Inadmissibility

Having a criminal record, regardless of the offense’s severity or age, can lead to denial of entry into the United States.

Past Pardons Not Recognized: A Canadian pardon for an offense is not recognized under U.S. law for entry purposes.
Waiver of Inadmissibility: If you are ineligible for entry due to a criminal record, you can apply for a temporary waiver of inadmissibility from U.S. Customs and Border Protection through the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate or at land borders.
Centralized Database: U.S. ports of entry are computerized and connected to databases containing criminal records from both Canada and the U.S.
Past Entry No Guarantee: Past entries into the U.S. without issue do not guarantee future entry if a criminal record is discovered.
Attempting Entry Without Waiver: Attempting to enter without a waiver could lead to detention and a permanent ban from entering the United States.

Cannabis: Strict Prohibition at Federal Level

Despite cannabis legalization in some U.S. states, it remains illegal under U.S. federal law.

Border Prohibition: It is illegal to transport cannabis across the Canada-U.S. border in any form or quantity.
Legal Consequences: Attempting to cross the border with cannabis, even to states where it is legal, can result in legal prosecution, fines, and potential jail time.
Cannabis Industry Inadmissibility: Past cannabis use or attempting to enter the U.S. for reasons related to the cannabis industry may result in being deemed inadmissible.

Boating in U.S. Waters: Reporting Requirements

Operators of small pleasure vessels arriving in the United States from a foreign port must adhere to specific reporting procedures.

Immediate Reporting: Report your arrival immediately to U.S. Customs and Border Protection for face-to-face inspection at a designated reporting location.
Exceptions: Some exceptions may apply, including under the Nexus Marine program. Consult Pleasure Boat Reporting Requirements from U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Cruises: Passport Requirement

A valid Canadian passport is mandatory for taking cruises originating from the United States.

Passport for Cruise and Re-entry: A passport is required both for the cruise itself and for re-entry into the United States at the cruise’s conclusion.
Passport Retention by Ship Authorities: Ship authorities might retain your passport during the cruise for administrative purposes and to facilitate U.S. immigration clearance.
Passport Handling Precautions: If your passport is held by ship authorities:
- Obtain a receipt for your passport.
- Ensure you get your passport back at the end of the cruise.
- Carry a photocopy of your passport with you at all times.

Pets: Health and Documentation

Pets entering the United States are subject to health inspections at ports of entry.

Healthy Appearance: Pets must appear healthy upon arrival.
Inspection/Testing/Denial: Evidence of poor health may lead to examination, testing at your expense, or denial of entry.
Additional Requirements: Pets may require:
- Import permits.
- Export or health certificates.
- Proof of vaccinations (e.g., rabies vaccination).
Quarantine: Animals may be subject to quarantine requirements depending on species and origin.

Children and Travel: Consent for Group Travel

Canadian citizens under 19 traveling with school or organized groups under adult supervision must have written consent from their parent/guardian.

Yellow Fever: No Specific Entry Requirements

Currently, there are no specific yellow fever related entry requirements for the United States.

Health: Staying Healthy During Your Trip

Relevant Travel Health Notices

It’s essential to be informed about health risks when traveling. Consulting healthcare providers and travel health clinics is recommended for personalized advice, ideally 6 weeks before your trip.

Routine Vaccines: Ensure Up-to-Date Immunizations

Ensure your routine vaccinations are current before any travel.

Recommended Vaccines: These include vaccines for measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others. Check with your healthcare provider and provincial/territorial immunization resources.

Pre-Travel Vaccines and Medications: Destination-Specific Needs

Depending on your travel plans within the USA, certain pre-travel vaccines or medications might be advisable.

Consult a Health Professional: Discuss your itinerary with a travel health care provider to determine necessary vaccines and medications.

Specific Health Considerations:

Yellow Fever:
- Risk: No risk of yellow fever in the USA.
- Entry Requirement: Proof of vaccination is not required for entry.
- Recommendation: Vaccination is not generally recommended for travel to the USA.
Rabies:
- Risk: Rabies may be present in wildlife, including bats, in the USA.
- Prevention: Avoid contact with wild animals. If bitten or scratched, wash the wound thoroughly and seek medical attention.
- Vaccination: Discuss rabies vaccination with a healthcare provider, particularly if you will be working with wildlife.
Measles:
- Risk: Measles is highly contagious.
- Prevention: Ensure you are fully vaccinated against measles before traveling.
Hepatitis B:
- Risk: Hepatitis B is a risk in all destinations, including the USA, spread through blood and body fluids.
- Prevention: Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travelers. Practice safe sex, avoid sharing needles, and ensure safe tattooing/piercing practices.
Influenza (Flu):
- Risk: Flu occurs worldwide.
- Prevention: Get a flu shot annually, ideally at least 2 weeks before travel. Flu seasons vary by hemisphere. Practice good hand hygiene and wear a mask if symptomatic.
COVID-19:
- Risk: COVID-19 is ongoing.
- Prevention: Complete a COVID-19 vaccine series and any recommended boosters. Vaccination significantly reduces severe illness. Verify destination-specific COVID-19 requirements.

Safe Food and Water Precautions: Avoiding Illness

Food and waterborne illnesses are preventable with careful practices.

Safe Food Handling: “Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it.” Only eat food that is safely prepared and from reputable sources.
Water Safety: Avoid getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater. Do not swallow water while bathing, showering, or swimming.

Tick and Insect Bite Prevention: Reducing Disease Risk

Tick and insect bites can transmit various diseases.

Prevention Measures:
- Use approved insect repellent on exposed skin.
- Wear light-colored, loose, tightly woven clothing.
- Wear socks and closed-toe shoes.
- Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in unenclosed spaces.
- Perform full body tick checks after outdoor activities.
Zika Virus:
- Risk: Zika virus may be present in some areas of the USA. Check the CDC website (Areas at Risk for Zika ) for updated risk areas.
- Prevention: Prevent mosquito bites at all times. Use condoms or avoid sexual contact, especially if pregnant, due to Zika’s risk of birth defects.
Dengue:
- Risk: Dengue fever risk is sporadic in the USA.
- Prevention: Protect yourself from mosquito bites, especially during daytime, sunrise, and sunset. No vaccine or medication is available for dengue.

Animal Precautions: Avoiding Animal-borne Diseases

Certain infections can spread from animals to humans.

Avoid Contact with Animals: Minimize contact with stray dogs, livestock, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Avoid undercooked meat. Supervise children closely around animals.
Avian Influenza (Bird Flu):
- Risk: Human cases reported in the USA, but risk is low for most travelers.
- Prevention: Avoid contact with birds (wild, farm, backyard) and surfaces with bird droppings. Cook poultry and eggs thoroughly. High-risk travelers (those visiting live animal markets, poultry farms, working with birds) should take extra precautions. Seasonal flu shots are recommended to reduce the risk of co-infection with human and avian flu viruses.

Person-to-Person Infections: Limiting Transmission

Reduce the risk of respiratory and sexually transmitted infections.

Respiratory Infections (Flu, COVID-19):
- Stay home and limit contact if sick.
- Wear a well-fitting mask in crowded indoor settings or if sick.
- Practice frequent handwashing.
- Cover coughs and sneezes.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), HIV, Mpox:
- Consider mpox vaccination if eligible.
- Reduce the number of sexual partners.
- Use condoms and dental dams for safer sex.

Medical Services and Facilities: Access and Costs

Healthcare in the USA is generally excellent and widely available.

High Costs: However, medical treatment is expensive.
Emergency Care: Hospitals must treat emergencies regardless of payment ability, but you will be billed for services.
Travel Insurance Essential: Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Medication: Regulations and Restrictions

Importation of certain prescription drugs into the USA is restricted.

Prescription Requirements: Some over-the-counter medications in Canada may require a prescription in the USA.
Medication Supply: Bring sufficient quantities of your necessary medications.
Physician’s Note: Carry a physician’s note explaining your medical condition and medications, especially for prescription drugs or syringes.

Keep in Mind: Traveler Responsibility

Travelers are ultimately responsible for their safety and preparedness.

Be Prepared: Do not expect medical services to be identical to those in your home country.
Travel Health Kit: Pack a comprehensive travel health kit, particularly if traveling outside major urban areas.

Laws and Culture: Navigating Legal and Social Norms

Adhering to local laws is mandatory. Familiarize yourself with relevant state and federal laws.

Penalties and Transfer of Offenders: Serious Legal Consequences

Serious law violations in the USA can result in jail sentences, and in some states, the death penalty. Canadian citizenship offers no legal immunity or preferential treatment.

U.S. Prison Sentences: Jail sentences are served in U.S. prisons unless a transfer to a Canadian prison is approved under a treaty between the two countries.

Drugs: Strict Drug Laws

Penalties for drug-related offenses (possession, use, trafficking) are severe, with lengthy jail sentences and substantial fines.

Cannabis at Federal Level: Despite state-level legalization in some areas, cannabis remains federally illegal. Crossing the border with cannabis is prohibited and carries serious legal risks.
Prescription Medication Regulations: Personal medication may be subject to U.S. drug importation laws. Generally, a 90-day supply of medication is allowed. Keep medications in original packaging with prescription labels and carry a copy of your prescription and a physician’s note.

2SLGBTQI+ Persons: State-Specific Laws

Some U.S. states have enacted laws and policies that may affect 2SLGBTQI+ individuals.

Check Local Laws: Research relevant state and local laws before traveling.

Dual Citizenship: Consular Assistance Limitations

Dual citizenship (including U.S.-Canadian) is legally recognized in the United States.

Limited Consular Services: Consular assistance from your non-U.S. country may be limited when in the USA as a dual citizen. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements as a U.S. citizen.

International Child Abduction: Hague Convention

The Hague Convention on International Child Abduction applies between Canada and the United States.

Hague Convention Assistance: If your child has been wrongfully taken to or is being held in the U.S., you can seek assistance under the Hague Convention for the child’s return.
Act Quickly and Seek Legal Advice: Act promptly, contact your province/territory’s Central Authority, and consult lawyers in both Canada and the U.S. for legal options. Canadian consular officials cannot intervene in private legal matters.

Expedited Removal: Border Entry Refusal

U.S. Customs and Border Protection can bar non-citizens from the U.S. for five years if they believe false documentation or misrepresentation occurred.

No Formal Appeal: Expedited removal has no formal appeal process. However, you can request a supervisory review from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Imports and Exports: Declare All Items

Contact U.S. Customs and Border Protection at your intended Canada-U.S. border crossing for the latest information on import/export allowances and restrictions, which change frequently.

Declaration Mandatory: Declare all items you are bringing into the United States at your point of entry.

Travel to Cuba from the United States: Sanctions

U.S. sanctions restrict travel between the United States and Cuba for tourism purposes.

Restricted Tourist Travel: Tourist travel between the U.S. and Cuba is generally prohibited. Other types of travel to Cuba from the U.S. may be permitted under specific conditions.

Driving: Valid Canadian License Acceptable

A valid Canadian driver’s license is generally accepted for driving in the United States.

State Traffic Laws Vary: Traffic laws vary by state.
Automobile Insurance: Many states have mandatory auto insurance requirements and require proof of insurance. Check specific state requirements. You may need to purchase additional insurance to drive into Mexico from the U.S.

Hitchhiking: Border Crossing Risks

Avoid crossing the border with hitchhikers or as a hitchhiker.

Implication in Illegal Activities: You could be implicated in illegal activities if a hitchhiker or driver is carrying illegal items, even if you are unaware.
Responsibility for Passengers: As a driver, you can be held responsible for the actions and belongings of your passengers.

Money: U.S. Dollar Currency

The U.S. dollar (USD) is the currency.

Limited Canadian Currency Acceptance: Canadian currency and personal checks from Canadian banks are not widely accepted. U.S. bank accounts are typically needed for banking transactions.
Currency Declaration: Declare to U.S. Customs and Border Protection if you carry more than US$10,000 into or out of the U.S. or will receive more than this amount while in the U.S. Failure to declare can result in penalties, including currency seizure.

Natural Disasters and Climate: Preparing for Environmental Risks

Natural disasters can occur at any time in the USA.

Climate Change: Increasing Extreme Weather

Climate change is impacting the USA, leading to more frequent and intense extreme weather events. Monitor local media for updates.

Hurricane Season: Atlantic and Pacific Risks

Hurricanes are most common:

Eastern Pacific (Hawaii, Guam): May to November
Atlantic, Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico: June to November
Hurricane Season Travel Risks: Traveling during hurricane season carries significant safety risks and potential disruptions to services. Be prepared to change travel plans, stay informed about weather forecasts, and follow local authority instructions.

Flooding and Landslides: Heavy Rain Impacts

Heavy rains can cause flooding and landslides, making roads impassable and damaging infrastructure.

Exercise Caution: Be cautious near rivers and low-lying areas during heavy rain. Stay informed about weather forecasts and follow local evacuation orders.

Earthquakes: Risk in Specific States

Earthquake risk is present in states including Alaska, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, and Washington State.

Emergency Procedures: If in an earthquake-prone area, familiarize yourself with earthquake emergency procedures (Drop, Cover, and Hold On).

Heat and Humidity: Summer Heat Stress

Heat and humidity can be severe, particularly from June to September, especially in the South and Southwest.

Heat-Related Illnesses: Be aware of dehydration and heatstroke symptoms, which can be fatal. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity during peak heat hours.

Bush and Forest Fires: Wildfire Risk

Bush and forest fires are a common risk across much of the USA, especially during summer months and periods of drought.

Wildfire Season: Wildfires are most frequent during low rainfall and high temperatures.
Air Quality: Smoke from wildfires can significantly reduce air quality. Stay away from fire-affected areas, especially if you have respiratory issues. Follow evacuation orders and monitor local media for updates.

Tornadoes: Central, Midwest, and Southern States

Tornadoes are a risk, especially in central, midwestern, and southern states. Tornadoes can occur with little warning.

Tornado Preparedness: Monitor local news and weather reports for tornado warnings. Follow instructions from local authorities and seek appropriate shelter if a tornado warning is issued.

Volcanoes: Eruption Risks

Active volcanoes exist in the USA, particularly in Hawaii, Alaska, and the Pacific Northwest.

Volcanic Ash Impacts: Volcanic eruptions can cause air travel disruptions and poor air quality due to ashfall. Monitor local media for updates and follow evacuation orders.

Tsunamis: Hawaii Coastal Risk

Hawaii is susceptible to tsunamis, which can occur rapidly after nearby earthquakes.

Tsunami Evacuation Plans: If staying on the Hawaiian coast, familiarize yourself with tsunami evacuation plans and routes in case of a tsunami warning. Heed tsunami warnings and evacuate to higher ground if necessary.