Sunday, March 6, 2016

STEP: The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program



The recent attacks in Belgium and Paris may make you question whether it is safe to travel to Europe or elsewhere in the world.  I am still planning to travel, but today I enrolled in The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program so that I will be quickly alerted to travel warnings and alerts when they are issued.

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program is a free service provided by the U.S. Government to U.S. nationals who are traveling to, or living in, a foreign
Country (formerly known as Travel Registration). Enrollment allows you to record information about your upcoming trip abroad that the U.S. Department of State can use to assist you in case of an emergency.

Using STEP is like having insurance. It’s something you hope you’ll never really have to use, but it’s nice to know that it will be there in an emergency. You can register for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program on the web or with the app.

When you sign up, you will automatically receive the most current information from the U.S. Department of State about the country (or countries) where you will be traveling or living. You will also receive updates, including travel warnings and travel alerts so that you can make informed decisions about your travel plans and activities.

When you enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, the Department of State will be able to assist you better in the case of an emergency, such as if you lose your passport or it is stolen while you are abroad.

The travel and contact information you enter into STEP will make it easier for consular officers in U.S. embassies and consulates around the world to contact you and your loved ones during an emergency.

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