An increasing number of older U.S. citizens are traveling abroad. The U.S. Department of State wants you to be prepared so that you can relax and enjoy your trip. Please consider the following tips as you plan your travel. Additionally, if you plan on residing overseas, please review our information sheet on retiring abroad.
Know Before You Go
Travel Documents: Apply for a passport at least three months before you travel. If you have one, be sure to check the passport’s expiration date and entry requirements for the countries you will be visiting. Some countries require that passports be valid for six months after your trip ends and some foreign countries require that U.S. travelers obtain a visa. Entry information for foreign countries is available at Country Specific Information.
Local Conditions: Extremes in climate can adversely affect the health of some travelers. So, too, can travel to high altitude locations As you travel, ask your tour operator or hotel about local conditions, including recommendations about taxis and other transportation options, restaurants, and the safety of local drinking water. Information on safe food and water precautions may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747) or via the CDC website. You can find more information about particular food safety concerns in the Country Specific Information and U.S. Embassy or Consulate webpages.
Enrollment allows you to record information about your upcoming trip abroad that the Department of State can use to assist you in case of an emergency.