USA Warns Americans: Do Not Travel Abroad, Come Home If Abroad

This isn’t unexpected, but the US Department of State has just issued a Level 4 (“Do Not Travel”) advisory for all international travel.

Given this development, US citizens are advised not to travel internationally, and if they’re outside the US, they should arrange for immediate return back home, unless they are prepared to remain abroad for an indefinite period.

Here’s the full advisory:

The Department of State advises U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19. In countries where commercial departure options remain available, U.S. citizens who live in the United States should arrange for immediate return to the United States, unless they are prepared to remain abroad for an indefinite period. U.S. citizens who live abroad should avoid all international travel. Many countries are experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks and implementing travel restrictions and mandatory quarantines, closing borders, and prohibiting non-citizens from entry with little advance notice. Airlines have cancelled many international flights and several cruise operators have suspended operations or cancelled trips. If you choose to travel internationally, your travel plans may be severely disrupted, and you may be forced to remain outside of the United States for an indefinite timeframe.

If you decide to travel abroad or are already outside the United States:

• Consider returning to your country of residence immediately using whatever commercial means are available.
• Have a travel plan that does not rely on the U.S. Government for assistance.
• Review and follow the CDC’s guidelines for the prevention of coronavirus.
• Check with your airline, cruise lines, or travel operators regarding any updated information about your travel plans and/or restrictions.
• Visit travel.state.gov to view individual Travel Advisories for the most urgent threats to safety and security.
• Visit our Embassy webpages on COVID-19 for information on conditions in each country or jurisdiction.Visit the Department of Homeland Security’s website on the latest travel restrictions to the United States
• Visit Keeping workplaces, homes, schools, or commercial establishments safe.

FINAL STAMP

I think this only goes to show you how serious this situation is. It was only a few days ago that the US issued a “Level 3” advisory and now we’re seeing a “Level 4” advisory.

It’s not known if this is just a general recommended precaution given the uncertainty around the globe, or if we’re about to see the US completely close borders. Regardless, it doesn’t look good.

Has your view/opinion of the situation changed over the course over the past few weeks?