United States | Travel security guide | Standing travel advice

United States (LOW)

• Travel to LOW-risk areas of the US can continue with normal precautions.
• Remain alert to your surroundings and observe basic security precautions to mitigate the risk of petty and opportunistic crime. Maintain a low profile and heightened vigilance in trouble spots where crime is typically higher.
• Due to the low but persistent risk of hate crimes animated by factors including but not limited to place of origin, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation and gender identity, workforce should be prepared to move swiftly to a safe location and contact the police or a local support network for assistance in the event of an incident. Report all such incidents to the local police precinct, who are well resourced to investigate such crimes.
• Homosexuality, same-sex marriage and transgender identity and expression are legal throughout the US. However, social attitudes towards the LGBTQ community vary across states and communities. LGBTQ issues are politically and socially contentious.
• LGBTQ workforce, particularly those who are transgender or gender non-conforming, may face harassment and occasional threats of violence. Some individuals may not approve of public displays of affection between same-sex couples. LGBTQ workforce should take basic precautions when in public and be aware that there are legal restrictions pertaining to some acts relevant to the LGBTQ community. See our Practicalities section of the Location Travel Guide for more detail.
• There is a low but persistent risk of terrorist attacks in the US. This risk includes threats posed by domestic violent extremists, and to a lesser extent foreign extremists, who are often motivated by ethnic, gendered, political, racial and religious hatred. Potential targets include landmark buildings, government sites, critical infrastructure facilities, places of worship, transport networks and popular tourist attractions or commercial centres. Be alert and report any suspect behaviour or packages to the authorities.
• Despite a heavy focus by national and international media, there is a low likelihood of mass shootings, though they remain high-impact events. Targets for mass violence vary and can include workplaces, schools, houses of worship or public gatherings. Maintain heightened awareness and notify authorities of any suspicious activity.
• It is advisable to carry original identification documents at all times. These may be requested during police stop-checks, when entering certain entertainment venues and when purchasing some public transport tickets. Foreign nationals should make copies of all important travel documents, including passports, and store them safely and separately from the original travel documents.
• Customs and border agents are liable to search phones and personal computers when entering the US. Anecdotal reports in 2025 suggest messages or images deemed to be against the US or prominent American political figures, in support of countries that have been deemed US adversaries or in support of groups the US has designated as terrorist organisations may result in refusal of entry to the US, detainment or cancellation of visas.
• Although most traffic stops do not result in any hostile interaction, it is best practice and highly advisable to take the following actions if pulled over by the police:

1. Ensure that you can swiftly access critical documents including driver's licenses and proof of insurance ahead of any traffic stop.
2. An officer seeking to pull over a vehicle will engage rooftop lights and sirens. Slow down swiftly and move as far onto the right-hand shoulder as you can or to another safe location as soon as possible.
3. Engage hazard lights.
4. Fully open both front windows.
5. Turn off the vehicle's engine.
6. Keep your hands visible and on the wheel throughout the interaction or as otherwise directed by an officer.
7. Follow the officer's directives. Officers in the US are armed. All occupants in the vehicle should maintain a compliant tone and posture throughout the interaction.
8. Do not open the door or exit the vehicle if you have not been instructed to do so. Refrain from any unannounced or sudden actions.
9. Announce all movements prior to making them, including informing the officer where your documentation is prior to reaching for it.

• Public transport is suitable for workforce though networks can be confusing for those with limited experience in the area. Terminals are often hotspots for petty crime. Arrange onward transport by taxi or to be met on arrival if travelling by bus. Signage is often in English only.
• Vigilantly monitor your financial statements and accounts during and after travel. If your financial information was compromised, it can take several weeks before fraudulent purchases are attempted.
• Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) if connecting to public Wi-Fi networks. For further information on cybersecurity, see our Communications section.
• Ensure that the phone numbers of local contacts, the emergency contact number (911) and diplomatic missions in the US are programmed into your mobile phone. Severe weather is a concern across the country. Areas along the Gulf of America/Mexico and the Atlantic coasts are particularly vulnerable to tropical weather systems during the Atlantic Hurricane Season from June to November. Severe weather, tornados and flooding can be a concern in South-east and Midwest regions from March to June. Severe winter storms are also possible during winter months across the US. Monitor official weather-related sources and local media for the latest developments. Ensure that plans are in place ahead of a natural disaster. See our Mitigating natural hazards section for additional advice.
• Wildfires are common throughout western states and the Mountain region, particularly during summer months. Significant fires are increasingly seen in other regions. Severe fires can cause significant damage and transportation disruption in affected areas. Ensure that plans are in place ahead of a wildfire. See our Mitigating natural hazards section for additional advice.

Trouble spots in urban areas (MEDIUM)

• Travel to MEDIUM-risk locations in the US can continue with increased security measures and preparations.
• Gun ownership is widespread, and there is potential for verbal disputes to escalate into violence that may entail gunfire. Always stay ready to vacate an area at the first sign of violence.
• There is a risk of vehicle break-in theft and carjacking in urban centres. Ensure that luggage, bags and valuables are either left at your accommodation, or concealed in the boot or in a locked compartment. Always remember to lock vehicle doors.
• Organised criminal groups operating in the US are associated with much of the violent crime that takes place in urban centres. Gangs may target opposing groups to expand their territory or in retaliation for previous violence. These shootings are generally targeted, though they pose an incidental risk to those in the immediate vicinity.