The U.S. Department of State is encouraging U.S. citizens in Niger to enroll or re-enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) after a recent update to the system. STEP helps the U.S. Embassy stay informed about American citizens' presence in the country, allowing for timely communication during emergencies.
According to information provided by the embassy, many individuals who had previously signed up for STEP may have stopped receiving messages. The STEP Help Center explains: "The Department of State launched a new version of STEP on September 16, 2024. If you were previously enrolled, you will need to re-enroll in STEP. The maximum subscription length is one year. For subscriptions with no end date, STEP will e-mail you to verify subscription renewal after one year. Your subscription will be canceled if you do not respond to the renewal request."
To register, travelers can visit mytravel.state.gov and either create an account or proceed as a guest. Continuing as a guest allows users to quickly add their email address to receive alerts from the embassy without creating an account or being able to later modify travel details.
Those who choose to create an account must use login.gov, which requires multi-factor authentication (MFA). The embassy notes that providing MFA may be more challenging overseas since login.gov is primarily intended for domestic users but provides resources explaining alternatives that do not require a U.S.-based phone number.
The embassy encourages anyone with concerns or questions about enrolling in STEP or using login.gov while abroad to reach out via ConsulateNiamey@state.gov.
For emergency assistance, Americans can contact the U.S. Embassy Niamey at (+227) 20-72-26-61 during business hours and (+227) 99-49-90-66 after hours. Additional help from the State Department is available by calling 1-888-407-4747 from within North America or 00-1-202-501-4444 from Niger.
Further information about safety and services for travelers in Niger can be found on the embassy’s website at ne.usembassy.gov and through their social media channels on Facebook and Twitter.