During large-scale crises, preparation and access to critical information can have a dramatic impact on outcomes. How can travelers from The University of Texas at Austin best prepare for the unexpected when abroad? Read on for suggestions from the Texas Global Risk and Safety (GRS) team! BEFORE YOU LEAVE: On… read more
U.S. State Department Launches New Version of Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
The U.S. Department of State recently launched a new version of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP is a free service for U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad to receive safety and security alerts and other local updates by email from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling in… read more
Resources and Recommendations for Remaining Healthy While Traveling
Traveling allows for personal growth and cultural exchange, not to mention ample opportunities to build lasting memories and meaningful relationships. However, the act of travel using mass transportation does carry inherent physical health risks due to the exposure to hundreds, if not thousands, of people. So how does one stay… read more
Travel Safety and Security During the 2024 Olympics and Paralympic Games
In light of the upcoming 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris, the Global Risk and Safety team is sharing safety guidance from On Call International and the Overseas Security Advisory Council. Increase in Petty Crime Pickpocketing and other petty crime is very common in Paris (as in many international… read more
Passport Requirements and Emergency Assistance
Passport Requirements and Recommendations Are you planning to travel abroad in the near future? If so, you will need a passport that is valid for a minimum of six months after your anticipated date of return to the United States. We also highly recommend confirming that your emergency contact person… read more
Updated Worldwide Caution
The U.S. Department of State issued an updated “Worldwide Caution” on October 24, 2023 due to elevated tensions around the world and the increased potential for violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests. The update advises travelers to exercise increased caution. As always, the top priority of the Texas Global… read more
CDC Update to Requirements for Entry to the U.S.
As of June 12, 2022 the U.S. no longer requires air passengers arriving from other countries to provide a negative pre-departure test or documentation of recovery from COVID-19, regardless of citizenship or vaccination status. To learn more, read the official CDC update regarding entry requirements.
Negative COVID-19 Test Now Required to Enter U.S.
Beginning Jan. 26, 2021, all air passengers entering the U.S. must provide a negative COVID-19 test before boarding their flight, as required by the CDC. Passengers are required to get a test within three days of their departure. Written documentation of the negative test result must be provided to the… read more
Personal vs. University Business International Travel
Personal vs. University Business International Travel Due to the current pandemic, UT Austin considers every country a restricted region and requires approval from the International Oversight Committee (IOC) before departure on university business. University Business Traveling on university business to a UT restricted region is prohibited without prior approval from… read more
Travel Safety Tips During the COVID-19 Pandemic (Repost)
Written by Libby Ennenga Traveling during the COVID-19 crisis creates a new set of challenges for travelers than previously experienced. While traveling may seem highly desirable or academically important, your health and safety are the most important factors to care for at this time. However, there will be instances where… read more
