The Department of State has unveiled a revamped version of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) on September 16, 2024. The updated platform is designed to enhance the user experience by integrating with login.gov accounts, allowing users to customize their subscriptions and receive country-specific email alerts for chosen timeframes.
Users can now enroll multiple trips or locations simultaneously and have the flexibility to modify subscriptions or unenroll as needed. This initiative aims to streamline communication between travelers and U.S. embassies or consulates during emergencies, providing safety and security alerts efficiently.
The Department encourages all U.S. citizens traveling or residing abroad to enroll or re-enroll in STEP promptly. This will ensure continued receipt of important alerts and messages from nearby U.S. diplomatic missions.
To take advantage of these updates, individuals should visit step.state.gov to set preferences for receiving alerts. The Department also urges people to encourage friends and family who are traveling or living internationally to join STEP. Participants have the option to sign up for alerts related to individual trips or long-term stays in specific countries.
For additional information and updates, travelers are advised to follow the State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs on social media (@travelgov), along with local U.S. embassies or consulates.