The U.S. Department of State Travel website will provide you will real-time entry requirements, safety advisories by region, local laws, health alerts, and embassy contact information.

Before traveling, review the International Travel Checklist, check the latest Travel Advisory for your destination, and learn about the local laws and customs. You can also learn about entry and exit requirements, if you need a visa, and review travel tips from the U.S. embassy.

From the link below, enter your destination country in the Select a destination drop-down box and press the Go button. All relevant information will appear in relation to that country.  

U.S. citizens are generally required to have a valid passport when traveling outside the United States. A passport is the primary internationally recognized document used to verify identity and citizenship when entering or exiting foreign countries.  

To apply for or renew a passport, please visit the U.S. Department of State for all application requirements, instructions, and status':

Passport Application & Requirements

Most countries require travelers’ passports to be valid for at least six months beyond their travel dates and may also require a visa or other entry authorization depending on the destination.  

In addition, U.S. regulations require all travelers returning to the United States by air to present a valid passport, even when traveling within the Western Hemisphere.  

Each country around the world has documented entry requirements for international travelers.  Some countries have mandatory applications, others have taxes or fees that must be paid, others have no requirements. 

Travelers are encouraged to verify entry requirements for their specific destination well in advance of departure, as documentation rules and visa policies vary by country. 

U.S. citizens can find official travel entry requirements in several reliable places. The most important and authoritative source is the U.S. Department of State website:

U.S. Department of State

Some examples of entry requirements for US citizens are as follows:

• Aruba - Online ED Card* 
• Barbados - Online Immigration & Customs Form 
• Riviera Maya (Quintana Roo) - VisiTAX*
• Jamaica - Immigration/Customs C5 Form 
• Europe Union (EU) - ETIAS (4th Q 2026 launch)
• United Kingdom - Visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)*

*Requires payment of fee to complete.  Do NOT pay this fee anywhere else other than the government website as listed above. 

Before leaving the US it is advised that you register with the U.S. Department of State. 

This is NOT because travel is unsafe or because there is any need to panic. It is so you can remain confident and well informed in your travels.

To do this you will enroll in STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program).  This free program provides the US Embassy the information that they need to contact you if there are weather events, transportation disruptions, or safety changes while you are abroad. 

This is an OPTIONAL app that you can use for your travel back into the United States. This is available to everyone and you do NOT need to have TSA Pre-Check/NEXUS/Global Entry to use it. It is a separate app. 

Mobile Passport Control (MPC) allows eligible travelers to submit their travel document, photo, and customs declaration information through a free, secure app on their smartphone or other mobile device. 

Use of MPC does not require pre-approval. Travelers who successfully use the MPC app will no longer have to complete a paper form and may be provided a designated queue. As a result, travelers may experience shorter wait times, less congestion and efficient processing.

VAT refunds allow non-resident travelers to claim back Value Added Tax (often 10-20%+) on goods purchased in foreign countries (e.g., EU) by presenting tax-free forms and receipts at customs upon departure. You must be a non-resident, usually spend a minimum amount (varies by country), and export the goods within 3 months. 

Key Steps to Claim a VAT Refund:

• At the Store: Ask for a "Tax-Free Form" when purchasing goods (usually requiring a passport).
• At Departure (Airport/Border): Before checking in luggage, take your goods, receipts, passport, and forms to Customs to get them stamped.
• Get Your Money: Present the stamped forms at a refund counter (like Global Blue or Planet) to get cash or a credit card refund. 

Important Details:

• Eligibility: Typically, you must live outside the country (e.g., outside the EU) and take the items with you.
• Minimum Purchase: Every country has a minimum spending threshold to qualify for a VAT refund.
• Eligible Items: Only goods being exported are eligible, not services like hotel stays or meals.
• Time Limit: Purchases must usually be exported within three months. 

When traveling internationally preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. Each destination has its own currency, banking system, and payment customs, so we encourage travelers to plan ahead for how they will access funds while abroad.

Most major destinations accept credit cards; however, smaller establishments, local markets, taxis, and gratuities may require local currency. We recommend notifying your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates prior to departure to avoid service interruptions. Additionally, verify any foreign transaction fees and daily withdrawal limits.

Obtaining Local Currency

There are several ways to access local currency:

• ATM Withdrawals Abroad: This is often the most convenient and cost-effective option. ATMs typically provide competitive exchange rates. Be sure to use machines located at reputable banks or within hotels for added security.

• Currency Exchange Prior to Departure: Some banks can order foreign currency in advance. This may be helpful if you prefer to arrive with a small amount of cash for immediate expenses.

• Airport Exchange Counters: While convenient, airport exchange services often offer less favorable rates and higher fees.

We suggest carrying a modest amount of local currency upon arrival for transportation, small purchases, and tips. Larger expenses are typically best handled with a credit card that offers fraud protection and favorable exchange rates.

Downloading a currency converter app such as Xe will allow you to check live rates and exchanges.  

Before traveling internationally, we recommend contacting your mobile service provider to review your coverage options abroad. International roaming charges can be significant without an appropriate travel plan in place.

Many providers offer short-term international plans that include data, calls, and text messaging for a daily or flat fee. Alternatively, travelers may consider purchasing an international SIM card or using an eSIM if their device is compatible.

Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, airports, and many cafés; however, access and reliability vary by destination. For security purposes, avoid transmitting sensitive information over unsecured public networks.

Cruise Travel:

Cell phone usage while cruising differs from standard international travel. When a ship is at sea, your phone may connect to the vessel’s satellite network, which can result in significantly higher roaming charges if you are not on an appropriate plan. We recommend placing your phone in airplane mode while onboard and using the ship’s Wi-Fi package for internet access.

When docked in international ports, your device will typically connect to a local cellular network. Prior to departure, contact your mobile provider to review international coverage options and daily travel plans to avoid unexpected fees.

Many cruise lines offer onboard Wi-Fi packages for messaging, social media, and streaming (speed and reliability vary). For the most cost-effective and controlled usage, enable airplane mode at sea and connect to Wi-Fi intentionally when needed.