If I Am Traveling Abroad And A Crisis Occurs Will The U.S. Government Pick Me Up and Pay For Me To Get Home?

Crises place an enormous strain on the State Department’s resources as embassy personnel focus on assisting U.S. citizens affected by the crisis. Security conditions can also limit U.S. government personnels’ ability to move freely around the country. It is almost impossible for the U.S. government to provide in-country transportation service to individuals or specific groups during a foreign crisis. You should therefore pay close heed to the State Department’s travel and safety information for the country you are traveling to or residing in, monitor local conditions, and have a plan of action in case of emergency. Should evacuation from the country be ordered U.S. law requires that any departure assistance be provided “on a reimbursable basis to the maximum extent practicable.” This means that evacuation costs are ultimately your responsibility; you will be asked to sign a form promising to repay the U.S. government. They charge you the equivalent of a full coach fare on commercial air at the time that commercial options cease to be a viable option. You will be taken to a nearby safe location, where you will need to make your own onward travel arrangements. If you are destitute, and private resources are not available to cover the cost of onward travel, you may be eligible for emergency financial assistance.