Frequently Asked Questions
What type of questions do you have?
Where can I find resources for international travel?
The US Dept of State is a wealth of great information. Visit here at http://state.gov
Some of the most common areas are:
- Passports (https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en.html)
- Visas (https://travel.state.gov/content/visas/en.html)
- Travel Advisories (https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html)
- Students Abroad (https://travel.state.gov/content/studentsabroad/en.html)
Is it necessary to exchange American currency for the currency of the destination country?
Yes, whether you are using cash, credit and debit cards, or traveler’s checks. The exchange rate determines how much foreign currency you get for each U.S. dollar, and the rate varies, depending on what form of money you are exchanging (cash vs credit cards, etc.), where you exchange it, and when the exchange takes place.
Is there a US Embassy in every country in the world?
No, the US does not have embassies in every country. We currently do not have embassies in North Korea, Bhutan, or Iran. … There are a few countries that we do not have diplomatic relations with, like Iran, where our interests are represented through the embassy of an ally.
- Smart Traveler Enrollment Program: (https://step.state.gov/step)
- Learn About Your Destination (What do I need to know about US Embassies worldwide?): (https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country.html)
Which vaccines do you need for your trip?
Four to six weeks before you travel, make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations and schedule an appointment with your health care provider to get the recommended vaccines for the countries you plan to visit. This gives the vaccines enough time to start working and time for any vaccines that might require more than one dose. You can find more info at https://www.vaccines.gov/travel/index.html.
- CDC Travel Health site for details on vaccines and other important information to stay healthy while you travel.
- Download CDC’s TravWell app, which helps users find out vaccine and medicine recommendations for each country.
- Refresh your memory on the liquid rules (https://www.tsa.gov/travel/travel-tips/refresh-your-memory-liquid-rules)
- Too Cool for School (https://www.tsa.gov/travel/travel-tips/too-cool-school)
- Can you pack your medicine in a pill case? (https://www.tsa.gov/travel/travel-tips/can-you-pack-your-meds-pill-case-and-more-questions-answered)
Customs and Border protection, what is a customs duty?
Customs Duty is a tariff or tax imposed on goods when transported across international borders. The purpose of Customs Duty is to protect each country’s economy, residents, jobs, environment, etc., by controlling the flow of goods, especially restrictive and prohibited goods, into and out of the country. Learn more at https://www.cbp.gov/.
