What’s New in the Consular Information Program


We’ve changed a few of the terms we use to describe conditions in other countries.  You’ll notice that in place of the term “Public Announcement,” we are now using “Travel Alert.”  Additionally, the “Consular Information Sheet” – which describes the things you need to know before traveling to a particular country – will now be called “Country Specific Information."

We think the new terms make the documents’ purpose clearer.   In anticipation of some questions you may have about the changes, here are some answers below:

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Why has the State Department changed the terms “Travel Alert” and “Country Specific Information?”

We believe the new terms – Travel Alert and Country Specific Information – more effectively describe their purpose to the public.

What’s the difference between a Travel Alert and a Travel Warning?

Travel Alerts describe short-term conditions affecting a country or region that pose imminent risks to the security of U.S. citizens.  Natural disasters, terrorist attacks, coups, election-related violence, and major international conferences or sporting events are examples of situations that might generate a Travel Alert.

Travel Warnings describe longer-term, protracted conditions that make a country dangerous or unstable.  A Travel Warning is also issued when the U.S. Government’s ability to assist American citizens is constrained due to the closure of an embassy or consulate or because of a drawdown of its staff.

What is the Worldwide Caution?

The Worldwide Caution reminds Americans to maintain a high level of vigilance and to bolster their personal security while overseas.  It contains information about ongoing security concerns, including the continual threat of terrorist actions and violence against Americans and American interests overseas.  The Worldwide Caution pays particular attention to regions of concern where there is a continued threat of terrorism.

How often is all this information updated?

The State Department constantly reviews its overseas safety and security information.  Because a Travel Alert describes short-term conditions, its information is generally valid for the duration of the Alert, normally 90 days or less.  Travel Warnings and the Worldwide Caution are reviewed continually and are generally updated every six months or earlier, as needed.  They do not expire automatically. 

As always, if you have questions related to Americans overseas, as well as international parental child abduction or intercountry adoptions, please call or email us.