United States of America [1]
Exercise increased caution in the United States due to the threat of terrorism.
COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
There have been confirmed cases of COVID-19 (coronavirus) in the United States of America.
Local authorities in countries and territories with confirmed cases of COVID-19 may impose containment measures including travel restrictions and quarantine requirements to prevent the spread of the virus.
Such measures may be imposed at short notice and specific details may change rapidly, including where and to whom they apply to and for how long. All travellers should stay informed of measures being taken by authorities in the areas they are travelling to. We recommend that all travellers consult the official website or the nearest embassy or consulate of your country or territory of destination to find out about any border controls and other measures that may apply to you.
For information on countries and territories which have COVID-19 related border restrictions affecting foreign nationals, including travellers in transit, please check the International Air Transport Association (IATA) website [2] before you travel. IATA provides a comprehensive list of all countries and territories that have imposed COVID-19 related border restrictions and is being continually updated.
As part of its response to managing the COVID-19 outbreak, the New Zealand Government has some temporary travel restrictions in place in New Zealand. Please refer to the New Zealand Ministry of Health website [3] for up to date information.
For further travel advice and information about COVID-19, please see our webpage here [4]. We encourage all New Zealanders living and travelling overseas to register with us [5].
Terrorism
The United States Department of Homeland Security regularly issues terrorism-related advice and updates. For current alerts, see the US National Terror Advisory System [6] webpage.
There is a heightened threat of terrorism in the United States and terrorists remain likely to try to carry out attacks.
A number of politically motivated attacks have occurred in recent years, causing multiple deaths and injuries:
- In March 2018, a series of bomb attacks occurred in Austin and San Antonio, Texas, causing 2 deaths and several injuries;
- In October 2017, a vehicle attack near the World Trade Centre in New York left 8 people dead and at least 13 injured; and
- On 17 September 2016, an explosion occurred in the Chelsea neighbourhood of New York causing a number of injuries.
Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreigners. New Zealanders in the United States are advised to keep themselves informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. Follow any instructions issued by the local authorities and be aware of your surroundings in public places such as shopping malls, markets, monuments, tourist destinations, demonstrations, large gatherings and on public transport.
In the event of an attack, leave the area as soon as it is safe to do so.
Crime
Petty crime such as theft and pickpocketing can occur, particularly in urban centres, tourist locations and on public transport. New Zealanders should stay alert to their surroundings, stay vigilant on public transport and avoid leaving belongings unattended, including in rental vehicles.There is a higher incidence of violent crime and firearm possession than in New Zealand. In many states, it is legal for United States citizens to openly carry firearms in public. However, crime rates vary considerably across cities and suburbs and incidents rarely involve tourists. New Zealanders should take care when travelling in unfamiliar areas. Research your destination before travelling and seek local advice if you are concerned about levels of criminal activity.
Active shooter incidents occur in the United States. For advice on how to respond to an active shooter situation, please see the US Department of Homeland Security website [7].
On August 3 2019, 22 people were killed and 24 others injured in a mass shooting in a Walmart store in El Paso, Texas. On 18 May 2018, 10 people were killed and 14 others injured in a shooting at a school in Santa Fe, Texas. On 5 November 2017, a shooting at a church in Sutherland Springs in Texas resulted in the deaths of 26 people, with 20 others injured in the attack. On 2 October 2017, 58 people were killed and over 800 others were injured in a shooting at a concert in Las Vegas.
Civil unrest and political tension
Protests and demonstrations regularly occur. We advise New Zealanders to follow any advice issued by the local authorities, monitor local media for developments and avoid all demonstrations, protests and rallies as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to result in violence.
General travel advice
Travellers from New Zealand to the United States should allow at least two hours when transiting from an international flight to a domestic flight due to increased security checks. The Transport Security Administration website [8] provides guidance for airline passengers travelling to the United States.
Travellers carrying electronic devices, such as laptops and mobile phones, should be aware that these devices may be subject to security checks by United States border authorities.
Immigration regulations are strictly enforced. Overstaying can result in detention then deportation. See our United States travel tips [9].
New Zealanders travelling or resident in the United States should have comprehensive travel and medical insurance policies in place. Medical costs in the United States are extremely high and the New Zealand government cannot assist with medical expenses.
New Zealanders in the United States are encouraged to register their travel [5] with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Travel tips
