US Dept of State Travel Advisory Updates
Some study abroad countries now have relaxed US Department of State travel advisory levels. In particular, as of August 6, these countries are considered lower risk:
- New Zealand
- Taiwan
- Thailand
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has also listed New Zealand, Taiwan, and Thailand as low- or no risk countries as of August 6.
Much of the world's risk has been reassessed from level 4 (do not travel) to level 3 (reconsider travel), including many popular study abroad destinations.
Please note that, as the pandemic situation is ever evolving, individual destination country risk levels will likely be frequently reassessed; travelers shoudl plan accordingly.
Coronavirus Passport Update #7
Need a passport still? You can still expect delays:
No expedited processing is available except in life-and-death circumstances only.
If we were to hazard to guess how long it would take to get a passport if you applied today, we'd suggest it would be in the 12-14 week range, or early November. If you're considering going abroad spring 2021 and need a visa, you likely would need a passport around that point. Get organized!
On a Side Note
The rest of the world is only slowly warming up to allowing US residents to visit. A recent example is Ireland. Ireland has recently opened its doors but US visitors right now are greeted with a mandatory 14-day quarantine.
Again, if you were to get on an airplane in the USA to study abroad today, you would likely face pre-screening, symptom checks upon arrival, and potentially a Coronavirus test and/or quarantine for the first few days or weeks.
