USA Travel Advice

Tropical storm Harvey will continue to affect parts of the southern USA from Texas to Louisiana until 30 August 2017; high winds, heavy rain and severe flooding are still expected with the possibility of sporadic tornadoes throughout the region. You should track weather updates and follow the advice of local authorities, including any mandatory evacuations. We are aware of the cancellation of flights from major airports in affected areas; check with your airline before travelling into potentially dangerous areas.

In March 2017, the US government implemented additional security measures relating to carriage of electronic items on flights departing to the US from a number of countries in the Middle East and North Africa region.

On 28 June 2017, the US Department of Homeland Security announced that it would also begin implementing separate enhanced security screeningprocedures for all commercial flights to the US.

If you need more information about how either of these measures may affect your particular flight, contact your airline or travel company.

You’ll need prior authorisation to enter the United States using a British passport, either through a visa, a Permanent Resident Card, or the Visa Waiver Programme. Restrictions apply depending on the type of passport you hold, your nationality, criminal history, and countries you may have recently visited. Visa and other entry conditions can change at short notice. It’s your responsibility to know and understand the rules of entry before you travel. See Entry Requirements

On 26 June 2017, a US Supreme Court ruling partly reintroduced temporary immigration measures for nationals of Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen. For the latest information check the websites of the US State Department and the Department of Homeland Security. British passport holders aren’t affected by these measures.

However, you must apply for a visa to enter the US if you’ve travelled to or been present in Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria or Yemen on or after 1 March 2011 (with some exceptions) or are also a national of Iran, Iraq, Sudan or Syria. See Entry Requirements

Around 3.8 million British nationals visit the United States every year. Most visits are trouble free. Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurancebefore you travel.

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in the USA. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. You should monitor media reports and remain vigilant at all times. See Terrorism

UK health authorities have classified the United States as having a risk of Zika virus transmission in Florida, Texas (Cameron County only), Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands. For more information and advice, visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre website: for travel to Florida and Texas (Cameron County) - for travel to Puerto Rico - for travel to US Virgin Islands.

You should be alert to the dangers of car and street crime. See Safety and Security

Snow storms during winter can cause delays and cancellations throughout airports in the USA. See Natural disasters

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.

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