Travel to China and the U.S. Travel Advisory
Last week, the U.S. Department of State highlighted their travel advisory for China to "Level 2." Since that time, adoption agencies have reported that families considering travel to China have been concerned and are reconsidering travel to China with children born in China, who are now U.S. citizens. At this time last year, China was listed as a Level 2. To put this in context, Italy, Denmark, Belgium, the Netherlands, and many other countries are also listed as Level 2; the Department’s listing can be found here.
National Council For Adoption (NCFA) is a proponent of individuals who were placed for intercountry adoption visiting and experiencing their country of birth. Many individuals and families have done this over the years, and report that it was beneficial in their understanding and appreciation of the culture and country where they were born. We encourage all individuals considering travel to consider the notice given by the Department of State—and point out that this notice does not rise to the advisory level of “Reconsider Travel” but rather to exercise caution if traveling—a prudent warning for any international travel. One way to do that is to join the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program – STEP.