Global Health Advisory Level 4: Do Not Travel

The State Department has made a rare move to raise the global advisory level to 4, which means do not travel at all. This is the most severe warning level available and it comes amidst a coronavirus pandemic that it has yet to start slowing down in the United States and many other countries around the world. Only four days ago it was raised to Level 3.

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.

You can read more here.

The State Department has also made changes to passport applications, removing the expedited option and also delaying regular applications.