European Union Referendum (BREXIT)

June 27, 2016, Citizens of the United Kingdom voted to withdraw from the European Union in a move that is being referred to as “Brexit.” Prime Minister David Cameron has announced his plans to resign by October and global markets have been volatile, with the pound sharply lower and the U.S. dollar higher, but it is too soon to know what the long-term impact may be on travel to the United Kingdom or elsewhere. The United Kingdom will have a two-year window in which to negotiate its exit from the EU.

U.S. government officials have not issued any updated guidance for U.S. citizens related to travel to or within the United Kingdom. The U.S. Department of State has issued a statement on the referendum, available here.

• It is too soon to know whether or how tourism to the region will be affected. London remains the second most popular international travel destination this summer based on AAA bookings.
• Early reports show the value of the British pound has fallen, which may make purchases more affordable for Americans traveling in the United Kingdom.
• Anyone traveling internationally should carry an additional form of identification such as an International Driving Permit, which can be obtained at one of AAA’s more than 1,000 branch offices across North America. Travelers should keep their passport and/or IDP on their person at all times while traveling.
• International travelers should refer to the State Department for detailed recommendations and Country Specific Information. Travelers should also enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This makes it easier for the embassy or consulate to contact U.S. citizens if needed while abroad.