United States of America Country Report

The United States of America is a large country located mostly in North America, though the state of Hawaii consists of a chain of islands in the Pacific Ocean and the country possesses several overseas territories such as American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. The US shares borders with Canada and Mexico; over USD 1 billion of trade crosses each of these borders per day, contributing to the US economy's status as one of the most advanced in the world. The US also holds considerable natural resources due to its size and geographic diversity.

Though politics in the country are highly polarized, the political system has a long history of relative stability. Indeed, its constitution is the oldest codified constitution still in force. While civil unrest typically does not pose a major threat to travelers in the country, protests in the US do sometimes turn violent, especially in major cities. Police shootings have sparked major demonstrations in the US on multiple occasions; while such demonstrations have typically focused near the area of the shootings, they have sometimes spread nationwide.

Although crime rates in the US are far below those of many other countries in the Western Hemisphere, such as most Latin American nations, they remain well above those in similarly developed countries in Europe. The biggest threat for those visiting the US stems from opportunistic crime in major urban centers. Natural disasters such as hurricanes on the East Coast and the Gulf of Mexico, earthquakes on the West Coast, and blizzards throughout all northern sections of the country are among environmental risks.

Several international terrorist organizations view the US as a major enemy and a potential target for future attacks. Similarly, domestic extremist groups operate in the country, adding to the risk posed by terrorism in the US.

There is no notable conflict threat to the US, although it is involved both directly and indirectly in a number of conflicts abroad. Crime varies dramatically according to region and city, but national averages are in general low. Both domestic and transnational terrorism are legitimate concerns for the country and are unlikely to diminish through the foreseeable future. Unrest is most common in major cities and typically focuses on foreign or domestic policy as well as major events abroad; protest events are usually nonviolent but violent demonstrations have been recently recorded.

International carriers are considered safe for travel to the United States.

The US road network is vast and incredibly comprehensive due to widespread ownership of personal vehicles.

Basic services such as water, electricity and fuel availability are extremely reliable.

The country is considered an attractive target for cyberattacks, however, its defenses against such an attack are strong and effective.

The climate of the US varies dramatically according to region, with extremely high temperatures a regular occurrence in the south during summer and extremely low temperatures common in the northern states during winter. Because of the country’s relatively strict environmental codes and enforcement, pollution is not generally a problem. Parts of the US lie within seismic zones. The potential strength of earthquakes in those areas can range from mild to strong. Storm systems are an annual issue for the country and can range from hurricanes to blizzards, depending upon the area in question. The hurricane season generally lasts from June through November, with activity peaking by September.

The US has several disease and health threats; however, health authorities have effective preventative measures. Healthcare services in the United States are accessible and effective to most, but services may be financially infeasible for those without valid insurance. All significant medications can be obtained in some form in the US. Tap water is considered safe for drinking unless otherwise specified.

Corruption in the United States is considered to be quite low, as anti-corruption measures and enforcement are strong. Rule of law is also considered strong. The US political system is historically among the most stable of developed economies. Sanctions are not an issue.