Thank you for your continued dedication to supporting AFS participants and host families during a particularly complex and evolving time.

I am writing to share an important update regarding international travel for hosted participants.

The temporary policy restricting all international travel during a student’s program will be lifted effective April 6, 2026. Beginning on that date, NH25 and NH26 core participants may request approval from AFS-USA for travel outside of the United States with their host families.

While international travel will once again be permitted, it remains strongly discouraged due to ongoing risks and the limitations of AFS support outside the United States.

Regarding YES, FLEX, and CBYX Participants: In keeping with our understanding of the current participant international travel guidelines at the U.S. Department of State, YES, FLEX, and CBYX participant international travel requests are unlikely to be approved. Given that policy, we recommend that volunteers work with host families to secure a temporary placement for a student whose host family plans to travel internationally.

This change reflects our intent to return flexibility to families and participants. At the same time, the underlying concerns that led to the original policy remain very real. As such, we need your partnership in ensuring that all parties fully understand the risks and limitations involved.

Here are some key points we ask that you reinforce:

• International travel remains strongly discouraged.
  
• All standard criteria and travel processes will continue to be followed, including any current or future DOS advisories. All international travel requests require the approval of the student’s Area Team and AFS-USA Travel staff.

• All requests will be considered on an individual basis and, as has always been the case, approval is not guaranteed.
  
• While permitted, international travel carries meaningful risks related to re-entry into the United States.
  
• AFS-USA cannot intervene in border or immigration matters.
  
• We are not able to influence decisions made by immigration or border authorities, nor can we provide assistance if a participant is denied re-entry, delayed, or detained.
  
• Participants unable to re-enter the US will be considered off program. In such cases, AFS support would end, including:
  
  • Health insurance coverage
  • Housing and meal support
  • Program services and supervision
  • Travel-related assistance

• This includes written acknowledgment of risks and limitations by:
  
  • The student’s parents/guardians
  • The host family 
  • AFS partner office
  • All travel must go through a formal approval process.
    
• All costs associated with travel disruptions are the responsibility of the parents/guardians.

• For future reference, you can find these details and more – as well as any revisions – via Help & Learning for Volunteers.

We recognize that this policy shift may raise questions, particularly given the challenges some families experienced earlier this year. We hope this update provides clarity and forward-looking flexibility.

Your role in helping families make informed, thoughtful decisions is essential. We encourage you to approach these conversations with empathy while clearly communicating the realities involved.

As always, thank you for all that you do to support our students and families.