Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for Overseas Travelers
We just completed the online application enrolling us in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for those traveling overseas.
While a few might object to “big brother” knowing their travel plans, the U.S. Department of State recommends that all U.S. overseas travelers enroll.
Here’s the scoop from the U.S. Department of State:
Stay Informed.
Sign up for our free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (formerly known as “Travel Registration” or “Registration with Embassies”) to receive the latest travel updates and information!
When you sign up, you will automatically receive the most current information we compile about the country where you will be traveling or living. You will also receive updates, including Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts (where appropriate). You only need to sign up once, and then you can add and delete trips from your account based on your current travel plans!
Stay Connected.
By connecting with us on the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, we 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.
We also assist U.S. citizens in other emergencies, such as in natural disasters. For example, after the earthquake in Haiti, we evacuated over 16,700 U.S. citizens and family members. During the civil unrest in Lebanon in 2006 we assisted nearly 15,000 U.S. citizens and family members, and in 2004 we helped thousands more during the tsunami.
The travel and contact information you enter into our Smart Traveler Enrollment Program 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 —including situations where your family or friends in the U.S. are having problems trying to contact you with important news.
Stay Safe.
We believe that a well-informed traveler is a safer traveler. Our consular officers around the world compile country-specific information, travel alerts, travel warnings, fact sheets and emergency messages to provide you with timely and accurate travel information about every country where you may travel.
We include reports on possible risks and security threats so that you can make informed decisions about your travel plans and activities.
Stay informed by connecting with us via our Smart Traveler Enrollment Program so you can have safe and enjoyable travels!
In our opinion, a small invasion into our travel privacy far outweighs being lost in the shuffle during a crisis. What do you think?
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Sharing this presentation that I came across. Registering your plans with STEP, allows government authorities to assist you better in an emergency situation.
https://www.slideshare.net/TravelInsuranceForUSA/american-citizen-traveling-abroad-register-with-step