Fire and rescue services
Call 911.
Medical emergencies
Call 911.
Police
Call 911.
We advise:
Exercise normal safety precautions in the United States of America.
Fire and rescue services
Call 911.
Medical emergencies
Call 911.
Police
Call 911.
We advise:
Exercise normal safety precautions in the United States of America.
Exercise normal safety precautions in the United States of America.
Exercise normal safety precautions in the United States of America.
Health advice due to COVID-19 is continually changing. Rules and restrictions to prevent outbreaks can change quickly. Many countries, including Australia, are implementing COVID-19 measures for people travelling from China, including Hong Kong and Macau. It’s important to regularly check the rules in the destinations you’re travelling to and transiting through. For the latest details on entry and exit conditions, you should contact your airline or travel provider, or the nearest embassy or consulate of the destination you're entering or transiting through.
Read our global health advisory and step-by-step guide to travel during COVID-19 for more information.
Full travel advice: Safety
Full travel advice: Health
Full travel advice: Local laws
Full travel advice: Travel
Full travel advice: Local contacts
Demonstrations and protests
Avoid areas where demonstrations and protests are occurring due to the ongoing potential for unrest and violence.
More information:
Violent crime
Guns, gun violence, and crime are more prevalent in the US than in Australia.
Mass shootings and active shooter events can and do occur. Although tourists are rarely targeted, there is always a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Familiarise yourself with how to respond by reading the US Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Active Shooter Event guide.
We don't update our advice for individual gun crimes, such as mass shootings or active shooter events unless Australians face a significant risk.
According to the latest official crime statistics from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), violent crime rates vary across the country. Still, they are highest in cities and urban areas. Even in cities with relatively low violent crime rates, there can be unsafe and no-go areas.
To protect yourself from violent crime:
If you're affected by violent crime, follow advice from local authorities.
Petty crime
Tourists are often targeted for pickpocketing and purse-snatching. This can happen anywhere but is particularly prevalent in crowded areas and on public transport.
Conceal your valuables. Pay close attention to your personal belongings and only carry what you need. Leave other valuables in a secure location.
Rental cars are easy to spot and are often a target of thieves. Don't leave valuables on display or unattended in your vehicle, including in the boot.
Terrorism is a threat worldwide.
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) maintains the National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS), a public alert system to communicate information about current and potential terrorist threats in the US.
According to NTAS, there is a heightened threat of terrorist attacks and mass casualty violence in the US.
Threats include those posed by individuals and small groups motivated by a range of ideological beliefs and/or personal grievances, as well as those inspired by recent attacks, including:
Attacks can be indiscriminate, including at public events, on public transport and in other places where crowds gather.
Subscribe to NTAS for updates and advice.
To reduce your risk of being involved in a terrorist incident:
If there's an attack, leave the affected area as soon as it's safe to do so. Avoid the area in case of secondary attacks.
More information:
Natural disasters and severe weather events regularly impact the US. These include:
Information, alerts and updates relating to severe weather events and natural disasters impacting the US will be provided via the Embassy’s and Smartraveller social media channels:
Consecutive and compounding disasters can also occur when one natural disaster or severe weather event triggers another.
Before travelling, familiarise yourself with the risks of natural disasters and severe weather events at your destination(s). Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System (GDACS) to receive alerts and notifications about major disasters.
Preparedness
In the event of a natural disaster, our ability to provide consular assistance may be limited.
Prepare yourself by
ready.gov and the American Red Cross also provide information on preparing for natural disasters, severe weather events and other emergencies.
Anticipate disruptions before, during and after a natural disaster(s).
Keep in contact with family and friends and let them know you're safe.
Register with the American Red Cross via its Safe and Well website and/or mark yourself safe on social media using its Emergency! App.
Severe weather
Severe weather can occur year-round in the US and cause especially hazardous conditions.
Monitor the National Weather Service (NWS) for forecasts, updates and severe weather alerts and warnings.
Hurricanes
Hurricanes are powerful tropical storms that routinely impact the eastern seaboard, Gulf Coast, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands.
Hurricanes can reach hundreds of miles inland, causing dangerous conditions, widespread damage and disruption to essential services in areas far from the coast.
While tropical storms have been known to form any month of the year, peak activity occurs during hurricane season, running from May or June to November, depending on your location.
The direction and strength of hurricanes can change with little warning.
If you're travelling during hurricane season, check weather reports and closely monitor the National Hurricane Center website.
If a hurricane or tropical storm is approaching, prepare early by following the advice for all natural disasters above.
Tornadoes
Tornadoes can occur in all 50 US states but are most frequent and attain the highest intensities across the Central Plains and parts of the Midwest.
They're also common in the rain bands of hurricanes and tropical storms.
Tornadoes can strike with little warning and cause catastrophic damage, with wind speeds sometimes exceeding 300mph.
While tornadoes can form at any time of year, conditions are most favourable in the spring and summer months (March to September).
If you're living in or travelling through an area prone to tornadoes, familiarise yourself with warning signals and emergency procedures and monitor the National Weather Service (NWS) Storm Prediction Center's website.
After a disaster
Travelling to areas affected by natural disasters and severe weather events can be dangerous.
If you plan to travel to a region after a natural disaster, check with your transport operator that services are operating.
Contact the place you intend to stay and check other sources for details on local conditions.
Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.
Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.
If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.
If you're not insured, you may have to pay many 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.
Confirm:
Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19.
See your doctor or travel clinic to:
Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.
If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.
More information:
Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some medications may be considered illegal or controlled substances, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.
If you plan to bring medication with you, check whether it's legal in the US. Bring enough to last the duration of your trip.
If possible, bring the medication in the original container you were given by your pharmacist and carry a copy of your prescription (where applicable) or a dated letter from your doctor stating:
It's illegal to possess any prescription medication in the US without a prescription.
More information:
COVID-19
COVID-19 remains a risk in the US.
For information regarding requirements before and during travel to the US and following your arrival, see Travel.
For information on the COVID−19 vaccination program in the US, refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website. You should consult your local health professional for advice on vaccine options, including assistance that may be available locally. The Australian Government cannot provide advice on the safety, quality and efficacy of vaccines that have been approved for use outside of Australia's regulatory process.
Monitor the CDC website and follow the advice of local authorities.
More information:
Insect- and Tick-borne diseases
Various insect-borne illnesses can occur throughout the US. The most common are West Nile virus and viral encephalitis (various types).
Sporadic outbreaks of dengue, chikungunya virus and zika also occur in the US (including Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands) in recent years.
Research your destination and get local advice before you travel.
To protect yourself:
Tick-borne ailments such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Ehrlichiosis and Powassan virus are also prevalent.
Check for ticks after being outdoors, especially in tall grasses and/or wooded areas.
More information:
Other health issues
While the standard of hospital and healthcare facilities in the US is similar to Australia, medical costs are significantly higher.
A visit to a doctor for even a minor issue can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars and you may be asked to show proof of insurance or your ability to pay before receiving treatment.
Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave Australia and make sure that it covers you for the duration of your trip, for all activities you intend to undertake, for any pre-existing medical conditions and for all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation.
The Australian Government won’t cover these costs and there's no reciprocal health care agreement between Australia and the US. This means that you aren’t covered by Medicare in Australia.
You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.
If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you in accordance with our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.
Drugs
Federal and state laws for drug-related offences vary. This includes laws related to the possession and use of marijuana (cannabis).
Penalties for drug-related offences can be severe and often include minimum mandatory sentences.
Some medications readily available in Australia are illegal or considered controlled substances in the US, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor. It’s also illegal to possess any prescription medication without a prescription. See Health.
More information:
Alcohol
The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 21 years old, however state laws regarding the possession and consumption in some circumstances can vary. Check the relevant state laws.
LGBTI+
There is no federal law that explicitly protects LGBTI+ people from discrimination and not all state and local non-discrimination laws include protections based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
Some states and localities have laws that may discriminate against or otherwise affect LGBTI+ travellers. Check relevant state and local laws.
More information:
International surrogacy
Surrogacy laws can be complex. Get legal advice before you agree to a commercial arrangement.
Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.
More information:
The US recognises dual nationality.
If you're a US dual national, you must:
More information:
Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, including COVID-19 vaccinations and tests, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.
The US has strict entry requirements for both tourists and transit passengers. US authorities won't allow you to enter the country if you don't comply.
If you're visiting the US for less than 90 days, you may be eligible to:
Otherwise, you'll need to get a visa before you travel.
Visa and other entry and exit conditions can change at short notice, including currency, customs and quarantine rules. Contact an embassy or consulate of the United States for the latest details.
More information:
Visa-free travel for short stays
If you plan to visit the US for less than 90 days, you may be able to travel under the VWP. This includes travel to the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.
The VWP is intended for short, infrequent visits to the United States and can be used by tourists and business travellers.
Conditions apply.
You can't enter the US under the VWP if you have:
You may also be ineligible to participate in the VWP if you have previously travelled to Cuba.
Before travelling under the VWP, you must apply and be pre-approved via the ESTA.
US authorities recommend that you apply as soon as you know you'll be travelling. ESTA approvals can take up to 72 hours.
ESTAs are valid for 2 years and for multiple entries.
You'll need to apply for a new ESTA if:
If there are differences between your ESTA, passport or ticket information, you could be:
If your ESTA application is denied, you'll need to apply for a visa from a US embassy or consulate.
US authorities generally won't tell you why your ESTA application was rejected, and you can't appeal their decision.
If you provide false or incorrect information on an ESTA, you may be permanently barred from travel to the US.
Ensure that you are aware of all the terms and conditions of entering and re-entering the US under VWP before attempting to enter the US on your ESTA.
If you fail to establish to the satisfaction of US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at your port of entry, that you are a genuine visitor entitled to be admitted under the VWP, you may be denied entry and detained.
More information:
Visas
If your ESTA application is denied or you're not eligible to travel under the VWP, or you intend to stay for more than 90 days, you'll need to apply for a visa from a US embassy or consulate.
The category of visa you need to apply for will depend on your reason for travel.
More information:
Arrival and departure record (Form I-94)
When you arrive, US authorities will determine your admissibility and decide the date by which you must leave the country. This date may not be the same as the expiry date of your ESTA or visitor visa.
A US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) official should:
Your I-94 is evidence of your legal status in the US and shows the date by which you must leave the country.
You can check your I-94 with CBP each time you enter the US.
If you stay past your I-94 expiry date, you can be detained, deported and barred from re-entering the US.
If you need to extend your stay in the US, lodge a request with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on Form I-539 before your I-94 expires.
You can't extend or renew your I-94 by travelling to Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean for 30 days or less and then re-entering the US.
If you travel to Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean and return to the US while your I-94 is still valid, you'll be readmitted for the amount of time left on it.
If your I-94 has recently expired and US authorities think the purpose of your trip was only to extend your stay in the US, they can:
If you're issued a paper I-94 when you arrive at a land border, give it to the airline, cruise line or CBP officials when you leave the US.
Entry into the US
Having an approved ESTA or valid visa doesn't guarantee entry to the US. It allows you to board a US-bound plane or vessel.
US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port of entry will decide if you can enter the country.
Entry requirements are strict. Authorities have broad powers when deciding if you're eligible to enter and may determine that you are inadmissible for any reason under US law.
At the port of entry, be prepared to answer questions about:
Officials may ask to inspect your electronic devices, emails, text messages or social media accounts.
Whether you enter the US under the VWP or on a visa, it's likely you'll need to have:
If you provide false information or can't satisfy the officials that you're visiting for a valid reason, you can be refused entry.
You may be held at the port of entry or a nearby detention facility while US authorities arrange for you to be returned to Australia (or the last country you visited).
If you're refused entry under the VWP, you generally don't have the right to an attorney or to appeal the decision.
COVID-19 measures
All travellers 2 years of age and older (regardless of citizenship or vaccination status) flying to the US from China, Hong Kong and Macau will be required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test result issued by a health professional and taken no more than 2 days before their flight departs. Travellers flying to the US from Seoul, Toronto and Vancouver who have been in China, Hong Kong or Macau in the past 10 days, will also be required to show a negative pre-departure COVID-19 test result. Affected travellers who have tested positive less than 90 days before their flights depart can provide documentation of recovery from COVID-19 in lieu of a negative test result.
This requirement will also apply to passengers traveling to the US from China, Hong Kong and Macau via third country transit, and to passengers connecting through the US en route to other destinations.
Further information is available on the CDC website.
Unless you're departing from or have recently been in China, Hong Kong or Macau, you don't need to take a COVID-19 test before travelling to the US.
US authorities may still deny boarding of any US-bound traveller showing signs of illness. Expect enhanced screening procedures, including for domestic flights within the US.
Further information and advice is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Requirement to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19
All travellers aged 18 and over must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and provide proof of vaccination to travel to the US unless you're a US citizen, US permanent resident, or you qualify for one of the very limited exceptions to this requirement.
Further information is available on the CDC website.
If you're not fully vaccinated but qualify for an exception, you may be required to attest that:
If you're not fully vaccinated and intend to stay in the US for longer than 60 days, you may also be required to attest that:
If you're fully vaccinated, make sure your vaccine and proof of vaccination are accepted in the US.
Children under the age of 18 are excepted from the vaccination requirement.
Additional requirements
Some US states have their own requirements for new arrivals from overseas and/or other US states.
Further information can be found on the websites of the individual states.
For further information regarding requirements before and during travel to the US and following your arrival, visit the CDC website.
Biometrics
You'll have your fingerprints scanned and your face photographed when you arrive in the US.
More information:
Children
Children of all ages must have their own ESTA approval or US visa.
Children under 18 years of age travelling alone or with only one parent or legal guardian should carry a notarised letter of consent signed by the non-travelling parent or guardian.
More information:
Travel to Cuba
The US enforces restrictions on travel to Cuba. This applies to anyone under US jurisdiction, including Australians who live or work in the US.
If you plan to visit the US after you've been to Cuba, you'll need documents to prove the purpose of your trip. Immigration officials may question you at the port of entry.
More information:
Immigration enforcement
US authorities actively pursue, detain and deport people who are in the country illegally.
It's becoming more common for US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers to carry out random travel document checks, including on public transport.
If you're a tourist or visitor, be prepared to show your passport and entry stamp, ESTA or valid US visa, and/or electronic or paper Form I-94 (if applicable).
If you're a foreign national living in the US, be prepared to show proof of legal residence, such as a US permanent resident card, valid US visa and electronic or paper Form I-94, or US driver's licence issued by the state in which you live.
Australian citizens entering the US on their Australian passport need only have a passport valid for their intended period of stay. However, different rules may apply in countries that you plan to transit or stopover in on your way to the US.
Be sure to check the entry requirements of any countries you intend to transit or visit en route to the US. Some countries won't let you enter or transit unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country.
You may be denied boarding and end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.
Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.
The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.
Lost or stolen passport
Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.
Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.
If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:
The local currency is the United States Dollar (USD).
Declare all amounts over USD $10,000 (or its foreign equivalent) on arrival and departure. This covers all forms of currency, not only US dollars and not only cash. Failing to do so is a serious violation and can result in the seizure and forfeiture of your money. Criminal penalties can also apply.
Banks and ATMs are widespread throughout the US, and currency exchange services are available in most major cities and airports.
Major credit cards are almost universally accepted. Contactless and mobile payment options are also readily available, particularly in cities and at most major retailers.
Local restrictions
Various COVID-19 restrictions and public health measures remain in place and vary by location.
More information
Road travel
You're more likely to be killed in a motor vehicle accident in the US than you are in Australia.
Speed limits and road rules vary between states and even between localities within states.
If you plan to drive in the US:
More information:
Driver's licences and International Driving permits (IDP)
While some US states will allow you to drive for a limited time on your Australian driver's licence, others require you to obtain an International Driver's Permit (IDP) before you leave Australia.
Some rental car companies also require you to have an IDP.
Contact your rental car company and the motor vehicle department in each US state you intend to drive for further information.
Driving without an IDP where one is required can void your travel and vehicle insurance.
More information:
Motorcycles
You need a motorcycle licence to operate a motorcycle in the US.
Check with your travel insurer whether your policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike, ATV or similar vehicle, and always wear a helmet.
Taxis
Taxis are plentiful in most cities and generally safe to use. Ridesharing options are also widely available.
Take the same safety precautions that you would in Australia.
Sea travel
The US is home to most of the major cruise lines and some of the world's busiest and best-served cruise ports.
Popular destinations for cruises originating and returning to or terminating in the US include Alaska, Florida, the Caribbean and Central and South America.
Before embarking on a cruise, make sure you take steps to be prepared and reduce the risk of things going wrong. This will help you have a safe and hassle-free journey.
If you are embarking on a round-trip cruise to Canada, Mexico and/or the Caribbean, make sure your passport, ESTA or visa and I-94 will allow you to re-enter the US. See Travel.
More information:
Air travel
DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.
Check USA's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.
More information:
Depending on what you need, contact your:
Call 911.
Call 911.
Call 911.
Always get a police report when you report a crime.
Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.
For complaints relating to tourism services or products, contact your service provider.
Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
For consular assistance, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.
Check the embassy or consulate websites for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.
Australian Embassy, Washington DC
Contact the Australian Embassy in Washington DC if you're in:
Australian Embassy
1145 17th St NW, Suite GP410
Washington DC 20036
Phone: +1 (202) 797 3000
Fax: +1 (202) 797 3331
Website: usa.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: facebook.com/AusInTheUS
Twitter: twitter.com/AusInTheUS
Australian Consulate-General, Chicago
Contact the Consulate-General in Chicago if you're in:
Australian Consulate-General, Chicago
123 North Wacker Drive, Suite 1330
Chicago IL 60606
Phone: +1 (312) 419 1480
Fax: +1 (312) 419 1499
Website: https://usa.embassy.gov.au/chicago
Facebook: facebook.com/AusCGChicago
Australian Consulate-General, Honolulu
If you're in Hawaii, contact the Consulate-General in Honolulu.
Australian Consulate-General, Honolulu
Penthouse, 1000 Bishop Street
Honolulu HI 96813
Phone: +1 (808) 529 8100
Fax: +1 (808) 529 8142
Website: usa.embassy.gov.au/honolulu
Facebook: facebook.com/AustralianConsulateGeneralHNL
Australian Consulate-General, Houston
Contact the Consulate-General in Houston if you're in:
Australian Consulate-General, Houston
3009 Post Oak Blvd, Suite 1310
Houston TX 77056
Phone: +1 (832) 962 8420
Fax: +1 (832) 831 2022
Website: usa.embassy.gov.au/houston
Australian Consulate-General, Los Angeles
Contact the Consulate-General in Los Angeles if you're in:
Australian Consulate-General, Los Angeles
2029 Century Park East, 31st Floor
Los Angeles CA 90067
Phone: +1 (310) 229 2300
Fax: +1 (310) 299 2380
Website: usa.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: facebook.com/AustralianConsulateGeneralLA
Twitter: twitter.com/AusConsulateLA
Australian Consulate-General, New York
Contact the Consulate-General in New York if you're in:
Australian Consulate-General, New York
150 East 42nd Street, 34th Floor
New York NY 10017
Phone: +1 (212) 351 6500
Fax: +1 (212) 351 6501
Website: newyork.consulate.gov.au
Facebook: facebook.com/AustralianConsulateGeneralNYC
Australian Consulate-General, San Francisco
Contact the Consulate-General in San Francisco if you're in:
Australian Consulate-General, San Francisco
575 Market Street, Suite 1800
San Francisco CA 94105
Phone: +1 (415) 644 3620
Fax: +1 (415) 536 1982
Website: usa.embassy.gov.au/san-francisco
24-hour Consular Emergency Centre
In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:
Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.