Monaco travel advice

Travel Summary

• The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at: www.who.int has further details. Check Swine Flu for further information.
  
  
• There is no resident British Diplomatic Mission in Monaco. Routine consular matters are covered by the British Consulate in Marseille which can, if necessary, call upon the assistance of the resident British Honorary Consul in Monaco. In case of an emergency you should contact the British Consulate in Marseille. See the General section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• There is an underlying threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• Police have issued warnings that counterfeit Euro notes are in circulation on the continent. You should be aware and take all precautions to ensure that notes you receive, from sources other than banks and legitimate Bureaux de Change, are genuine.
  
  
• Most visits are trouble-free. The main types of incident for which British nationals required consular assistance in Monaco in 2007 was for replacing lost or stolen passports.
  
  
• Monaco is not a Member of the European Union and therefore EU reciprocal medical arrangements do not apply. We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is an underlying threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Street crime is rare, however, you should take the usual precautions of taking care of passports and money.

Be vigilant when travelling on trains to and from Monaco as thefts have occurred. Thefts have also occurred at Nice airport, particularly at the car rental parks where bags have been stolen as drivers are loading their cars.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Local Travel

Access to Monaco is by road, rail or helicopter from Nice airport.

Road Travel

If you wish to drive in Monaco you must have a valid UK driving licence, insurance and vehicle documents. If you are driving a vehicle that does not belong to you then written permission from the registered owner may also be requested.

The minimum age for driving a car in Monaco is 18 years old.

You should be aware that speed limits are strictly enforced as are the laws concerning anyone who drives while over the alcohol limit.

Further advice on driving outside the UK can be obtained from motoring organisations such as the AA and RAC.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Local laws and customs

Apart from on the beaches and in bathing areas, it is not permitted to walk about in swimsuits, stripped to the waist, or bare foot. Appropriate clothing must be worn in all public establishments and especially in religious buildings.

For more general information for different types of travellers see Travel Advice Relevant to You.

Entry requirements

Visas

France handles immigration and customs matters for Monaco. Normal documentation required for entry into France is required for entry into Monaco. Therefore, if you are a British Citizen or British Subject with Right of Abode in the UK, you will not need a visa to enter Monaco.

Other British passport holders should confirm the current entry requirements with the nearest French Diplomatic mission. All British passport holders require a valid passport.

Passport validity

There is no minimum passport validity requirement but you should ensure that your passport is valid for the proposed period of your stay.

Travelling with children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country.

Health

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) does not provide health cover in Monaco. It is essential that you have comprehensive travel and medical insurance cover.

You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Monaco and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

General

Insurance

We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see Travel Insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are oversees then this is How We Can Help.

Registration

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency. More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

Emergency assistance

There is no resident British Diplomatic Mission in Monaco. Routine consular matters are covered by the British Consulate in Marseille which can, if necessary, call upon the assistance of the resident British Honorary Consul in Monaco. In case of emergency, contact the British Consulate in Marseille , 24 ave du Prado, 13006 Marseille Tel: 04 91 15 72 10, Fax: 04 91 37 47 06.

Money

Even though Monaco is not a member of the European Union the local currency is the Euro.

Police have issued warnings that counterfeit Euro notes are in circulation on the continent. You should be aware and take all precautions to ensure that notes you receive, from sources other than banks and legitimate Bureaux de Change, are genuine.

Moldova travel advice

Travel Summary

• A human case of the H1N1 virus - Swine Flu - has been reported in Moldova. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its pandemic threat alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at: http://www.who.int/scr/diseases/swineflue/en/index.html has further details. You should also monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. Check Swine Flu for further information. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.
  
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• We advise caution if considering travelling to Transnistria, where there is no official British representation and British consular services may be limited in their ability to help. You should consult the British Embassy, Chisinau for the most up-to-date information.
  
  
• Parliamentary elections were held on Wednesday 29 July 2009. Elections held earlier this year, on 5 April 2009, resulted in violence. During the immediate post-election period you should avoid any political rallies, demonstrations or large gatherings.
  
  
• People planning to visit Moldova should be aware of reports of increased difficulty in entering Moldova through its land borders with Romania.
  
  
• The main types of incident for which British nationals required consular assistance in Moldova in 2007 and 2008 were: dealing with hospitalisations; and help in leaving the country. The Moldovan authorities are strictly enforcing penalties (including deportation) against those who overstay. See the Entry Requirements section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• You should be vigilant to petty crime, particularly in Chisinau. Leave your passport, travel documents and other valuable items in a safe place. But you should always carry a photocopy of your passport for identification purposes, as police checks are frequent.
  
  
• There are strong penalties for possession or use of drugs and avoid taking photographs of military or government installations. See the Local Laws and Customs section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

You should be alert to the risk of street crime and petty theft, particularly in Chisinau, and for pickpockets and bag snatchers in crowded areas. Try not to draw attention to yourself on the streets. Credit card and ATM fraud is on the increase and you should avoid using credit/debit cards whenever possible and take precautions when using ATM’s. You should keep your valuables and passport secure in hotel safes and make sure that you carry a copy of your passport with you. It is useful to carry a small torch after dark, as street lighting is poor.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Parliamentary elections were held on Wednesday 29 July 2009. Elections held earlier this year, on 5 April 2009, resulted in violence. During the immediate post-election period you should avoid any political rallies, demonstrations or large gatherings.

Moldova Country Profile

Local Travel

Transnistria

Transnistria (northeast Moldova) is not under Moldovan government control and seeks independence. Since July 2006, there have been two explosions on or near public transport in the regional capital Tiraspol. While the exact motives remain unclear, there is no evidence to suggest that these attacks were linked to any terrorist group or organisation. If you are thinking of going to Transnistria, you should consult the British Embassy in Chisinau for the latest information; (tel: +373 22 225902; fax: +373 222500;25 18 69/+373 22 25 18 59; email: enquiries.chisinau@fco.gov.uk.

It is very important to avoid getting into difficulty with the Transnistrian authorities.

The Embassy will do its best to provide Consular help where needed. But in practice this will be very limited. Anyone in trouble with the Transnistrian authorities should try to telephone the Embassy in Chisinau at an early stage.

Road Travel

You should avoid driving after dark outside Chisinau. There is little street lighting, people and animals are often on the road, and road conditions are poor.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Local laws and customs

There is a zero tolerance policy in Moldova for possessing or supplying any drugs. Whilst legislation stipulates that fines are possible penalties for drug use/supply, in practice possession of even small quantities of drugs (Class B/C drugs as well as Class A) could result in long prison terms (2-5 years, 5-8 years for repeat offenders) in addition to heavy fines.

Homosexuality is not forbidden in Moldova, though the Moldovan government does not formally recognise unmarried or same-sex partners.. There is an active social and lobbying group on gay/lesbian issues in Chisinau. But public attitudes are less tolerant.

The authorities in the Transnistrian region of Moldova can be uncomfortable with visitors taking photos in Transnistria. We advise caution if taking photos of even the most normal buildings/monuments, and we advise against taking photographs of any peacekeeping or military staff/installations, which could lead to difficulty.

You should also avoid taking photos of military and government (including airports, power stations etc) facilities in Moldova more widely.

There are frequent police checks. You should carry with you at least a copy of identification documents (passport) at all times. Drivers should hold a valid international driving licence and original car/insurance documents, and should keep to speed limits.

You must obtain permission from the Moldovan Department of Monuments to bring out of the country any artwork or antiques. Failure to obtain this permission could result in the artwork or antiques being impounded and criminal charges brought.

For more general information for different types of travellers see Travel Advice Relevant to You.

Entry requirements

Visas

The Moldovan Government lifted the visa requirement for EU nationals on 1 January 2007. Visas are no longer required to enter Moldova if your stay is under 90 days. The Moldovan Embassy in London now issues visas.

You should check your visa after it has been issued and before travelling to ensure that it is valid for the time of the proposed visit, as there have been occasional errors resulting in fines and delays to travel plans. The Moldovan authorities are now strictly enforcing penalties (including deportation) against foreign visitors who overstay the terms of their visas. As a visitor you are allowed to spend no more than 90 days in a 6 months period in Moldova. Alternatively, you must regularise your stay by applying for a residence or work visa.

Entry into Moldova via Transnistria

Visitors entering into Transnistria overland from Ukraine (e.g. by bus or rail) should be aware that the Transnistrian border guard will not place entry stamps into passports. There are no ‘immigration controls’ in place on the internal boundary between Transnistria and Moldova proper and entry stamps will also not be placed into passports at this juncture. Visitors who enter Moldova in this way (via Transnistria) are likely to encounter problems when leaving Moldova (by air from Chisinau or overland into Romania) as their passport will show no valid entry stamp into Moldova and may potentially be deemed to have illegally entered the country. Visitors intending to enter Moldova overland from Ukraine are advised to do so at one of the internationally recognised border crossing points between Moldova (excluding the Transnistria segment) and Ukraine in the north and south of the country.

Passport validity

Before setting off you should ensure that your passport has at least six months’ remaining validity and at least one unused page.

Registration

If you arrive in Moldova by air you will automatically be registered with the local authorities. If you travel to Moldova by land you are required to register your stay if you intend to stay in private accommodation for more than three days. If you are staying in hotel accommodation then registration should be automatic. You must register with the Department of Information Technologies (address: 42 Pushkin Str. Chisinau; tel:; 504 656) or the local passport office (the British Embassy can provide you with the address of the relevant passport office for your area) within three working days. To register your stay in Moldova you must present the following documents:

• a written request for registration giving details of where your are staying, for how long and the reason for the visit;
• your passport.

Failure to register may result in fines and/or difficulties when leaving Moldova.

Travelling with children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration, please contact the Moldovan Embassy in London.

Health

The standard of medical care in Moldova is below that available in the UK. Non Russian/Romanian speakers may encounter difficulties in a medical emergency. The Embassy has details of English-speaking doctors.

We advise you to drink bottled water, as Moldovan tap water may cause visitors to become ill.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 8,800 adults aged 15 or over in Moldova were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 0.4% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Moldova and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

There have been no reported cases of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in Moldova during the current series of outbreaks. But the World Health Organisation has confirmed cases elsewhere in the region.

You should read this advice in conjunction with Avian and Pandemic Influenza, which gives more detailed advice and information.

Swine Flu

A human case of the H1N1 virus - Swine Flu - has been reported in Moldova. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its pandemic threat alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at: http://www.who.int/scr/diseases/swineflue/en/index.html has further details. You should also monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. Check Swine Flu for further information. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.

General

Insurance

We recommend that you take out full, comprehensive insurance and make sure that this covers medical evacuation in an emergency. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see Travel Insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are oversees then this is How We Can Help.

Registration

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency. More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

Issuing replacement passports

The British Embassy in Chisinau does not issue passports. Applications for new passports are accepted in Chisinau for forwarding to the British Embassy in Bucharest for processing, but this may take up to 20 working days. If you use a courier, you will have to pay the cost.

Money

The most widely accepted foreign currencies are the US Dollar and the Euro. We recommend that you carry some Euro cash. The Euro notes should be in perfect condition or they may not be accepted. It is not always easy to exchange Sterling for the local currency. Credit cards are not widely accepted in Moldova. Moldovan Lei can be obtained from a number of ATM machines in Chisinau. However only a very limited of these ATM machines will accept ‘chip and pin’ cards. ATMs outside Chisinau will not accept ‘chip and pin’ cards.

Malta travel advice

Travel Summary

• There have been confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) - Swine Flu in Malta. You can check for updates on the situation, the number of cases andtheir location through the Maltese Ministry for Social Policy, Health, the Elderly and Community Care: http://www.sahha.gov.mt/pages.aspx and also in country by telephone: +(356) 2133 2235. /additonal information is available from the Infectious Disease Prevention and Control Unit: http://www.health.gov.mt/dsu/index.htm. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at: www.who.int has further details. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on this website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at: http://www.dh.gov.uk.
  
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public places, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• Around 450,000 British tourists visit Malta every year (Source: Ministry of Tourism). Most visits are trouble-free. The main type of incidents for which British nationals required consular assistance in Malta in 2008 were for replacing lost or stolen passports (75 cases); deaths, mainly from natural causes (43 cases); hospitalisations (25 cases); and arrests or detentions (19 cases). If you need to contact the emergency services in Malta call 112.
  
  
• We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public places, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Crime against tourists is rare although robberies, handbag snatching, pickpocketing and theft from parked cars can occur. Visitors should safeguard passports, money and other valuables; for example by using hotel safety deposit boxes.

Scams

Foreign visitors and residents can be targeted by scam artists. These scams can pose great financial loss to victims. If you receive an e-mail purporting to be from HMRC (Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs) offering a tax refund on provision of your bank details you should make absolutely sure that it is not part of a scam.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Malta Country Profile

Local Travel

Road Travel

You can drive in Malta on your UK driving licence.

Caution should be exercised whilst driving as some roads are in a poor state of repair. Main arterial roads are in reasonable condition. You should keep to the speed limits. Local standards of driving are poor.

In 2007 there were 14 road deaths in Malta (source: Maltese DfT). This equates to 3.4 road deaths per 100,000 of population and compares to the UK average of 5.0 road deaths per 100,000 of population in 2007.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Air Travel

The revised EU-wide security measures that came into effect for all passengers departing from UK airports in November 2006 are also being implemented in Malta. For more details about this see Airline Security.

Local laws and customs

Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Malta are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

For more general information for different types of travellers see Travel Advice Relevant to You.

Entry requirements

Visas

British nationals do not require a visa to visit Malta.

If you intend to work in Malta then you must apply for a work permit.

Passports

You should ensure that your passport is valid for the duration of your visit.

Travelling with children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. This does not apply to Malta.

Health

There have been confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) - Swine Flu in Malta. You can check for updates on the situation, the number of cases andtheir location through the Maltese Ministry for Social Policy, Health, the Elderly and Community Care: http://www.sahha.gov.mt/pages.aspx and also in country by telephone: +(356) 2133 2235. /additonal information is available from the Infectious Disease Prevention and Control Unit: http://www.health.gov.mt/dsu/index.htm. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at: www.who.int has further details. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on this website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at: http://www.dh.gov.uk.

Hospital treatment, in-patient or out-patient, at the public (Government) facility of Mater Dei Hospital is free to British nationals and is of an acceptable standard. Alternative (private) treatment may incur considerable expense, which you may be unable to claim back from your insurance company.

The Form E111 is no longer valid. You should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before leaving the UK. The EHIC is not a substitute for medical and travel insurance, but entitles you to emergency medical treatment on the same terms as Malta nationals. It also does not cover you for medical repatriation, on-going medical treatment or treatment of a non-urgent nature. For more general information see EHIC.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that less than 200 adults aged 15 or over in Malta were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at less than 0.1% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Malta and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

General

Insurance

We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see Travel Insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are oversees then this is How We Can Help.

Registration

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency. More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is How We Can Help.

Money

Since 15 June 2007 new legislation on the controls of cash entering or leaving the EU apply in all Member States. Any person entering or leaving the EU will have to declare the cash that they are carrying if this amounts to 10,000 euros or more; this includes cheques, travellers' cheques, money orders, etc. This will not apply to anyone travelling via the EU to a non-EU country, as long as the original journey started outside of the EU nor to those travelling within the EU. Malta adopted the Euro currency on 1 January 2008.

Macedonia travel advice

Travel Summary

• There are confirmed human cases of the A (H1N1) – virus (Swine Flu) in Macedonia (source: WHO). The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at www.who.int/disease/swineflu/en/index/html has further details. You should also monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.
  
  
• Mumps epidemic spreads in Macedonia. A total of 5,913 persons infected with mumps were registered by the end of 2008, which is the biggest number of registered cases in the past 25 years. See the Health section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• You should exercise caution if you intend to travel to the northern and western border regions of Macedonia. Please see the Local Travel section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• There is an underlying threat from international terrorism. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• Sporadic acts of violence do still occur in Macedonia, particularly in the north, but also including Skopje. Please see the Local Travel and Political Situation sections of this advice for more details.
  
  
• Most visits to Macedonia are trouble-free. The main type of incident for which British nationals required consular assistance in Macedonia in 2007 was as a result of an arrest or detention.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling to Macedonia. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is an underlying threat from international terrorism. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Personal attacks against foreigners are extremely rare. Organised criminal groups are active. Shooting incidents, including in Skopje do occur sporadically, but are not targeted at foreigners. Serious crime is rare and people unconnected with these groups have not been specifically targeted, however, there is obviously a risk of accidental injury from such incidents as some people carry firearms. Gunfire can also be a part of celebration. There is always, however, the possibility of foreigners being in the wrong place at the wrong time. You should therefore be vigilant at all times.

There have been several cases of foreigners being pick pocketed by gangs of children and bag snatchers in the main shopping and entertainment areas late at night. Foreign nationals appear to have been specifically targeted. You should ensure that your personal possessions are secure.

Credit card fraud is widespread and caution should be exercised when making a purchase using this method. The number of ATMs in Macedonia is increasing, making the withdrawal of local currency much easier.

There has been no repetition in Skopje or elsewhere in Macedonia of the public demonstrations that took place against elements of the International Community during the 2001 crisis. However, acts of intimidation and harassment against nationals of western countries have been reported.

In the event of civil disorder, we advise British nationals to stay at home and restrict their movements as much as possible, especially after dark. Avoid crowds and demonstrations generally. Keep a low profile, vary times and routes of travel and ensure that travel documents are current. Remain aware of your surroundings at all times.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Macedonia Country Profile

Following the serious inter-ethnic fighting in 2001, the situation in Macedonia has largely stabilised, with Presidential and Municipal elections in March and April 2009 passing off peacefully.

Local Travel

Visitors to north west Macedonia should exercise particular caution as armed groups are known to operate there, and there are sometimes sporadic incidents of violence. While there is no evidence of foreigners being deliberately targeted, visitors to this region may find themselves the victims of local bandits or caught up in acts of violence.

You should exercise caution when travelling in regions near the Kosovo borders. Travel should be restricted to primary roads and daylight hours only. A high level of vigilance should be maintained. Particular care should be taken due to the continuing threat from land mines and unexploded ordnance.

You should exercise caution when travelling to the area bordering Serbia. Apart from designated border crossings, the immediate border area is a military restricted zone. Permission must be obtained from the nearest Macedonian police station before travelling to this zone.

Load Carrying Vehicles transiting Macedonia borders may be subject to long delays before being permitted to cross. You should ensure that you have the proper customs documentation prior to arrival at any of the Macedonian border crossings.

Road Travel

You can drive in Macedonia with either a UK or International Driving Licence.

All vehicles must use side lights/ dipped headlights during the day.

It is illegal to use mobile phones whilst driving.

You should also be aware that the legal drink limit for driving in Macedonia is lower than in the UK.

Traffic in Macedonia is unpredictable and driving standards vary widely. You are advised to exercise caution at all times whilst driving.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Local laws and customs

Macedonia has brought in new laws requiring all vehicles to use side lights/ dipped headlights during the day.

It is illegal to use mobile phones whilst driving.

Please note that taking photographs of any military installation, establishment or site of government or strategic importance is prohibited. Do not take photographs or make notes near military or official installations. You are likely to have your film confiscated, be detained for questioning and possibly arrested if you do not observe this rule.

For more general information for different types of travellers see Travel Advice Relevant to You.

Entry requirements

Visas

There is currently no requirement for holders of British passports to obtain visas for travel to Macedonia for up to 3 months. Holders of UK Refugee Travel Documents travelling to Macedonia or transiting the country en-route to Kosovo, must obtain visas for travel to, or transit through, Macedonia from the Macedonian Embassy in London.

Any longer duration than 3 months requires visitors to regulate their stay with the appropriate Macedonian authorities.

Travel to Serbia from Kosovo

UNMIK exit/entry stamps were replaced by Republic of Kosovo stamps on 27 June 2008.

We are aware of incidents where foreign nationals, including those from the United Kingdom, are being denied entry into the Republic of Serbia from Macedonia if they hold these new border entry or exit stamps from Kosovo. We have requested clarification from the Serbian authorities over their immigration requriements. In the meantime we advise that persons travelling to Serbia who have new Kosovan stamps in their passports revise their travel plans and consider alternative arrangements until further notice.

Passport validity

There is no minimum passport validity requirement but you should ensure that your passport is valid for the proposed period of your stay.

Registering with the Police

It is essential that you register with the local police in the town/city where you are staying within 24 hours of your arrival in Macedonia, unless you are staying in a hotel where you will be registered automatically on checking-in. If you do not register you may be fined, detained or face a court appearance. You are also advised to register with LOCATE online.

Dual nationality

There have been some incidents in which Macedonian nationals who also hold dual nationality in another country, have been detained on the grounds that they have avoided military service in either the Army of the Republic of Macedonia (ARM) or in the former Yugoslav National Army (JNA). Dual British/Macedonian nationals visiting the country are advised to carry documents showing that they have completed their military service in either the ARM or JNA if applicable.

The final intake of conscripts into the Macedonian Army was in April 2006. Since then military service in Macedonia has been abolished. However dual nationals who have not completed military service in either the ARM or JNA are advised to check with their nearest Macedonian Embassy regarding their liability for this. You are advised to check with the nearest Macedonian Embassy for up to date information on visa requirements before you travel.

Travelling with children

Single parent or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration please contact the London Embassy of the Republic of Macedonia.

Health

There are confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) – virus (Swine Flu) in Macedonia. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. Information about Swine Flu is available from the World Health Organisation at http://www.who.int/disease/swineflu/en/index.html. You should monitor local media reports for any further developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at: http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/index.htm.

Passengers arriving at airports and border crossings in Macedonia are being health checked through questionnaires and within the next fortnight thermal imaging cameras are expected to be put in place at airports and border crossings. Passengers are given an information leaflet (in Macedonian/Albanian and English), which requests that frequent contact with doctors at the Hospital for Infectious Diseases is carried out for 10 days following their arrival. This may be by phone or in person. Doctors will ask about symptoms observed through self-monitoring.

Those who are found to be unwell will be taken by ambulance to the Hospital for Infectious Diseases in central Skopje for further investigation.

Longer term visitors to Macedonia, or residents who feel unwell, are advised to stay isolated at home and to telephone a helpline number 02 3112 499 from an international phone, where their call will be answered by an English/Macedonian/Albanian speaking doctor for further advice. Anti-viral medication will be available on the same basis as for Macedonian nationals.

The UK and Macedonia have a reciprocal agreement for emergency care only. However, you would still need to pay some of the initial costs (usually between 50 and 100 euros). If the treatment is not deemed an emergency then you would be unable to claim anything back from the Macedonian authorities and you would be expected to pay the full cost of treatment. In order to receive treatment under the reciprocal arrangement you would need to show your British passport.

Since the beginning of 2009, 1,085 persons infected with the mumps virus have been registered in Macedonia. Most of them are registered in Skopje - 288, in Kavadarci - 160 and in Prilep - 137, the Institute for Health Protection (RZZZ) informs. A total of 5,913 persons infected with mumps were registered by the end of 2008, which is the biggest number of registered cases in the past 25 years.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that less than 1,000 adults aged 15 or over in Macedonia were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at less than 0.1% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Macedonia and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

Natural disasters

Macedonia is in a seismically active zone. An earthquake measuring 5.1 on the Richter scale occurred near the town of Valandovo in southern Macedonia near the Greek border on 24th May 2009. Smaller tremors occur periodically. Serious earthquakes are extremely rare, the last such occurrence being in 1963.

General

Insurance

You are strongly recommended to obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling to Macedonia. Medical insurance is recommended as you may need to meet the full costs of treatment (see Health section) or if you are treated at a private hospital, as many public hospitals are poorly equipped. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see Travel Insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are oversees then this is How We Can Help.

Registering with the British Embassy

Whether travelling to or resident in Macedonia you are advised to register with, with our on-line registration system called LOCATE to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in a crisis. More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

Passports

You should carry your passport at all times. We therefore advise that you keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place. This will help you to obtain a replacement, in case your passport is lost or stolen.

The loss or theft of a British passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the British Embassy in Skopje, or Honorary Consul in Bitola, as appropriate. The Honorary Consul in Bitola cannot issue new passports but can assist with the arrangements to apply for a new passport via Skopje.

For further information on passports, please visit the Identity and Passport Service website.

If your passport is lost or stolen the British Embassy in Skopje can issue you an Emergency Passport only. Applications for new standard passports are accepted at the British Passport Processing Centre in Northern Europe, at the British Consulate-General in Dusseldorf. For full details on applying please visit website www.ukingermany.fco.gov.uk.

Money

The official currency of Macedonia is the Denar. Credit cards are now accepted in many of the larger hotels and shops, and ATMs increasingly also accept international bank cards.

Please be aware that British banks do not exchange Denars. You are advised to exchange any unwanted Denars before you leave Macedonia. You should only change money through banks or official exchange offices and not through street dealers. The British Embassy in Skopje cannot exchange currency. You will be unable to exchange Scottish and Northern Irish bank notes in Macedonia.

You must declare all foreign currency on arrival. Failure to do so may result in detention and forfeiture of funds when attempting to leave Macedonia.

Credit card fraud is widespread and caution should be exercised when making a purchase using this method.

ATMs are widely available in Skopje, less so in other main towns.

Luxembourg travel advice

Travel Summary

• There are confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) - Swine Flu in Luxembourg. You can check for updates on the situation in Luxembourg by visiting the website of the Luxembourg government at: www.gouvernement.lu. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at: www.who.int has further details. Check Swine Flu for further information. You should also monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on this website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.
  
  
• There is an underlying threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• Around 120,000 British nationals visit Luxembourg every year (Source: STATEC (Statistics Office in Luxembourg). Most visits are trouble-free. The main type of incident for which British nationals required consular assistance in Luxembourg in 2007 was for replacing lost or stolen passports. Luxembourg can only issue Emergency Passports in a genuine emergency. Otherwise, full passport services can be obtained from the British Consulate-General in Paris.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section and Travel Insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is an underlying threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

You are advised to take the usual sensible precautions against crime.

Scams

Foreign visitors and residents can be targeted by scam artists. These scams can pose great financial loss to victims. If you receive an e-mail purporting to be from HMRC (Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs) offering a tax refund on provision of your bank details you should make absolutely sure that it is not part of a scam.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Luxembourg Country Profile

Local Travel

Travel by car, train and bus throughout the country is relatively quick and easy.

Road Travel

In 2007 there were 43 road deaths in Luxembourg (source: DfT). This equates to 9.0 road deaths per 100,000 of population and compares to the UK average of 5.0 road deaths per 100,000 of population in 2007.

It is advisable to travel with vehicle registration documents to prove you are the legal owner of the vehicle you are driving. Failure to do so could lead to the police confiscating and impounding your vehicle as well as imposing fines.

When you drive, remember that there are different speed restrictions to the UK. ‘On the spot fines’ are common.

When driving, be aware that it is easy to cross into neighbouring countries without realising it. You must have your passport with you for identification.

Heavy Goods Vehicles, transiting Luxembourg on the way to France:
There is a restriction for HGVs over 7.5t transiting Luxembourg between 21.45 on a Saturday and the day before a public holiday and 21.45 on a Sunday and the day of the French public holiday. Please see: www.cita.lu/files/pdf/journees_transit.pdf for list of holidays.

Heavy Goods Vehicles, transiting Luxembourg on the way to Germany:
There is a restriction for HGVs over 7.5t transiting Luxembourg between 2330 on Saturday and the day before a public holiday and 2145 on Sunday and the day of the German public holiday. Please see: www.cita.lu/files/pdf/journees_transit.pdf for list of holidays.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Air Travel

The revised EU-wide security measures that came into effect for all passengers departing from UK airports in November 2006 are also being implemented in Luxembourg. For more details about this see Airline Security

Local laws and customs

French, German and Luxembourgish are the administrative languages. English is spoken in Luxembourg City itself, but less so elsewhere.

For more general information for different types of travellers see Travel Advice Relevant to You.

Entry requirements

Visas

Holders of British passports, describing them as "British Citizens", do not require visas to enter Luxembourg.

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for at least six months.

Travelling with children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration please contact the Luxemburg Embassy in London.

Health

There are confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) - Swine Flu in Luxembourg. You can check for updates on the situation in Luxembourg by visiting the website of the Luxembourg government at: www.gouvernement.lu. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at: www.who.int has further details. Check Swine Flu for further information. You should also monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on this website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.

The Form E111 is no longer valid. You should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before leaving the UK. The EHIC is not a substitute for medical and travel insurance, but entitles you to emergency medical treatment on the same terms as Luxmbourg nationals. It also does not cover you for medical repatriation, on-going medical treatment or treatment of a non-urgent nature. For more general information see EHIC.

You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Luxembourg and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

General

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see Travel Insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are oversees then this is How We Can Help.

In an emergency, telephone 112 for medical treatment and 113 for the Police services.

Registration

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency. More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

Money

Since 15 June 2007 new legislation on the controls of cash entering or leaving the EU apply in all Member States. Any person entering or leaving the EU will have to declare the cash that they are carrying if this amounts to 10,000 euros or more; this includes cheques, travellers' cheques, money orders, etc. This will not apply to anyone travelling via the EU to a non-EU country, as long as the original journey started outside of the EU nor to those travelling within the EU.

You are reminded that the currency of Luxembourg is the Euro.

Lithuania travel advice

Travel Summary

• There are confirmed human case of the H1N1 virus - Swine Flu in Lithuania. There are currently no quarantine or medical screening processes on entry to Lithuania. You should monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at: www.who.int/ has further details. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page for further information. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.
  
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• There has been a recent increase in petty crime, notably pickpocketing in bars and restaurants. We advise you to take extra care of your belongings in busy locations. See the Crime section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• Road traffic accidents are common. Extra care must be taken at all times when driving, particularly when driving at night. Car drivers must carry original car registration documents (copies are not acceptable). See the Road Travel section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• You should seek medical advice about inoculations against rabies and tick-borne encephalitis if you intend to visit forested areas. See the Health section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• Increasing numbers of British tourists visit Lithuania every year. The main types of incident for which British nationals required consular assistance in Lithuania in 2007 were: dealing with hospitalisations; and replacing lost and stolen passports. You should leave your passport in a safe place and keep a copy of it with you for identification purposes. If you need to contact the emergency services in Lithuania call 112.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

There has been a recent increase in petty crime, notably pickpocketing in bars and restaurants. We advise you to take extra care of your belongings in busy locations. There is a risk of mugging, pickpocketing and bag snatching, particularly on public transport. Avoid poorly lit streets, parks and secluded areas after dark.

Be wary of accepting food and drink from strangers in bars, nightclubs and restaurants. Some visitors have been drugged and subsequently robbed.

Car theft, particularly of/from new or expensive cars, is rife. Lock unattended vehicles: conceal all contents (and radios, if possible). Major cities have guarded car parks: use them if at all possible, especially overnight.

We are aware of a number of recent thefts of bicycles in Vilnius. Make sure your bicycle is securely locked when leaving it unattended.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Lithuania Country Profile

Local Travel

Tickets for buses and trolley buses in Vilnius and Kaunas are best bought from a news kiosk (spauda). They cost more if bought from the driver. Tickets should be franked on the machine on board. If they are not - or you are travelling without a ticket at all - you may be fined by undercover inspectors.

Taxis are widely available in the major cities and are reasonably priced. However, do make sure there is a visible meter and that it is being used. It is cheaper and safer to phone for a taxi from a recognised company rather than to hail one in the street. Ask your hotel reception to call one for you if necessary. Do not use taxis that are unmarked; they are illegal and usually cost a lot more than registered taxis.

Tourists walking along the Curonian Spit should be aware that after a short distance the Spit forms part of Kaliningrad, which is Russian Federation territory.

Road Travel

In 2007 there were 739 road deaths in Lithuania (source: DfT). This equates to 21.8 road deaths per 100,000 of population, compared to the UK average of 5.0 road deaths per 100,000 of population in 2007.

If driving into Lithuania in winter, equip your car for severe conditions. Winter tyres are a legal requirement in Lithuania between 10 November and 1 April. Dipped Headlights are also compulsory all year round.

The speed limits, unless otherwise indicated, are 50km/h in towns, 90km/h on country roads and 110km/h on highways.

If you do not have a UK photocard driving license you will need to also carry either an international driving licence or your passport.

Do not drink and drive. The legal blood-alcohol limit is 0.04%. Those found over the limit face a fine and possible imprisonment.

When travelling by car, border officials will ask for the following documents:

• A passport with a validity of at least six months;

• Original car registration documents (copies are not acceptable);

• International vehicle insurance (Green Card).

You will also need to have appropriate car insurance valid for Lithuania.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Air Travel

The revised EU-wide security measures that came into effect for all passengers departing from UK airports in November 2006 are also being implemented in Lithuania. For more details about this see Airline Security

Local laws and customs

You should not become involved with drugs. Possession of even very small quantities of drugs can lead to imprisonment and/or heavy fines.

For more general information for different types of travellers see Travel Advice Relevant to You.

Entry requirements

Visas

Holders of British Citizen passports do not require visas to enter Lithuania. Holders of other categories of British passports may require visas and should contact the Lithuanian Embassy in London.

Passport validity

Passports should have at least three months' validity remaining when you leave Lithuania.

Staying for three months or longer

British Citizens intending to live and work in Lithuania for a period longer than three months in any calendar half-year from the first day of their entry into Lithuania should apply for an EC Residence Permit from the Migration Department under the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Lithuania.

Travelling with children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration please contact the Lithuanian Embassy in London.

Health

There are confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus - Swine Flu in Lithuania. There are currently no quarantine or medical screening processes on entry to Lithuania. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at: www.who.int/ has further details. Check Swine Flu for further information. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.

The Form E111 is no longer valid. You should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before leaving the UK. The EHIC is not a substitute for medical and travel insurance, but entitles you to emergency medical treatment on the same terms as Lithuanian nationals. It also does not cover you for medical repatriation, on-going medical treatment or treatment of a non-urgent nature. For more general information see EHIC.

Tick-borne encephalitis is common to Lithuania, especially if you intend to visit forested areas in the summer months

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 2,200 adults aged 15 or over in Lithuania were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 0.1% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Lithuania and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

General

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see Travel Insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are oversees then this is How We Can Help.

Registration

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency. More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

Issuing replacement passports

The British Embassy cannot issue passports locally but it can issue temporary passports in an emergency. UK passport applications from customers living in Lithuania will be handled by the British Passport Processing Centre in Düsseldorf which is part of the British Consulate General, Düsseldorf, Germany. It is recommended that the application is sent by courier (this will be at your own expense). We aim to issue a replacement passport within 15 days. For more details please go to http://ukingermany.fco.gov.uk/en/passports/welcome.

Travel to Klaipeda, Nida & Palanga

Those wishing to travel to Klaipeda, Nida and Palanga should be aware that we now have an Honorary Consul, Mark Uribe, to assist you should you have any difficulties. His number is: 8-699 33210 and the address of the Honorary Consulate is: Zveju 2/513, Klaipeda.

If you intend to walk along the Curonian Spit you should be aware that after a short distance the Spit forms part of Kaliningrad, which is territory of the Russian Federation.

Customs Regulations

Travellers entering the UK from European Union countries do not normally pay any UK tax or duty on excise goods they have bought tax and duty paid in EU countries for own use. But there are special rules for cigarettes and some other tobacco products from some EU countries.

The UK is maintaining limits on the amount of cigarettes and some tobacco products that travellers are able to bring in to the UK for own use from nine European Union Member States (including Lithuania), without paying UK duty.

The limits are:

Estonia - 200 cigarettes or 250g of smoking tobacco.

Bulgaria, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Slovakia - 200 cigarettes.

Anyone who is carrying more than the limits should pay UK duty on those goods by entering the Customs red channel or by using the red point telephone. If travellers enter the Customs blue channel with more than the limits, then all of their tobacco may be seized.

Money

New legislation on the controls of cash entering or leaving the EU will apply in all Member States from 15 June 2007. Any person entering or leaving the EU will have to declare the cash that they are carrying if this amounts to 10,000 euros or more; this includes cheques, travellers' cheques, money orders, etc. This will not apply to anyone travelling via the EU to a non-EU country, as long as the original journey started outside of the EU nor to those travelling within the EU.

The official currency of Lithuania is Litas (Lt). Major credit cards are widely accepted and ATM machines can be found in most banks and hotels. There are numerous currency exchange kiosks in the capital Vilnius and travellers' cheques can be cashed at some banks.

You should ensure that any Sterling you take to Lithuania is in Bank of England notes. Banks and Bureaux de Change have refused to exchange Scottish or Irish notes, as they do not recognise them as Sterling.

Latvia travel advice

Travel Summary

• There are confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus - Swine Flu in Latvia. There are currently no quarantine or medical screening processes on entry to Latvia. You can check for updates on the website: http://www.sva.gov.lv/en/ (in English). You should also monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase is at Level 6. The WHO website at: www.who.int has further details. Check Swine Flu for further information.
  
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• There has been an increased number of reports recently of foreign tourists being charged extortionate prices for drinks in bars in Riga and fraudulent transactions being debited against credit cards. We have noted a rise in reports of street crime. See the Crime section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• Around 92,000 British tourists (Source: Latvian State Statistics Board) visited Latvia in 2008. Most visits to Latvia are trouble-free. The main types of incident for which British nationals required consular assistance in Latvia in 2008 were for replacing lost or stolen passports; and dealing with arrests or detentions.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See Travel Insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Press reports and notifications to the Embassy have shown an increase in the cases of petty theft and robbery. When walking you should be alert to the threat of pickpocketing and other forms of theft. Always avoid unlit streets and parks at night, and be extra vigilant if walking alone.

There have also been reports of drinks being spiked in some establishments. Visitors are advised to not leave drinks unattended when in bars.

A marked increase in the number of reports of foreign tourists being charged extortionate prices for drinks or having fraudulent transactions debited against credit/debit cards has been noted. In some cases tourists have been assaulted or forced to withdraw money from a cash point to pay for the bill. You can help avoid situations like this by:

• Checking the price of drinks before ordering, consulting a price list where possible

• Determining whether a "cover" charge is made for entry

• Being careful when ordering drinks for new acquaintances, which may be exorbitantly priced.

• Being aware that many tourists report being overcharged or falling victim to credit card after being lured into bars/clubs.

• Paying for one round at a time.

It is also recommended that you seek recommendations for bars and clubs from trustworthy sources like your hotel or other holidaymakers. An internet search of sites such as travel forums, should reveal good and bad feedback on individual bars and clubs. When paying by credit/debit card ensure the transaction is completed in your presence and be wary of attempts to make you re-enter your pin number. More advice on how to enjoy a safe trip to Riga can be found on the British Embassy in Riga’s website at http://ukinlatvia.fco.gov.uk/en/help-for-british-nationals/travel-advice/responsible-tourism-visiting.

If you feel that you have fallen victim you should insist on calling the Tourist Hotline on ++371 22033000.

Taxis

For reasons of safety and economy, you are advised to use a major taxi company such as Rigas Taksometru Parks (8000 13 13). They are generally able to tell you the type, colour and number of the car in advance. If you do pick up a taxi on the street or at the airport please ensure that you only use official registered vehicles. Such vehicles display yellow license plates. Even when using official taxis it is advisable to determine the price of the journey before starting your journey as reports have been received of some taxis using meters which have been adapted to clock up higher rates. Some taxis operating from Riga airport can charge highly inflated prices.

Car theft is rife. Wherever possible use guarded car parks and keep valuables out of sight.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Latvia Country Profile

Road Travel

Drivers should carry original vehicle registration documents, when crossing the border into Latvia (including for motorcycles). Those who do not have these documents will not be allowed to take their vehicle back out of Latvia.

In 2007 there were 419 road deaths in Latvia (source DfT). This equates to at a rate of 18.4 per 100,000 of population, compared to the UK average of 5.0 road deaths per 100,000 of population in 2007. Drivers should not attempt to move a vehicle, which has been involved in an accident, even if it is blocking the road, until the police give permission. In winter, equip your car for severe conditions.

Do not drink and drive. The legal limit is 0.5%. Those found over the limit face a fine and immediate imprisonment.

Winter tyres are required between 1 December and 1 March. Local law states that drivers must use their headlights at all times, including during daylight hours.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Air Travel

The revised EU-wide security measures that came into effect for all passengers departing from UK airports in November 2006 are also being implemented in Latvia. For more details about this see Airline Security

Local laws and customs

You should not become involved with drugs. Possession of even very small quantities of drugs can lead to lengthy pre-trial detention and possible custodial sentences.

The consumption of alcoholic drinks in public is prohibited. Drinking in public may lead to detention and a financial penalty.

For identification purposes, you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times. If possible your passport and other important documents should be left in hotel safes.

Travellers should be aware that on the spot fines will be imposed if found travelling without a ticket or a ticket which has not been validated. Tickets can be brought from the driver or from shops/kiosks but must be validated by using machines sited within the bus/tram.

For more general information for different types of travellers see Travel Advice Relevant to You.

Entry requirements

Visas

It is the responsibility of all British nationals to ensure that they meet the requirements of Latvian immigration laws.

British Citizen passport holders do not require a visa for stays of up to three months. British passport holders, whose nationality is shown as anything other than a British Citizen must contact the nearest Latvian Embassy to determine whether a visa is required for entry to Latvia.

Passport validity

As a consequence of Latvia having become a member of the Schengen zone all passports should have a minimum of three months validity on entry.

Health Insurance

You are required to have health insurance on entering Latvia. Those who require visas for Latvia need to show policies upon arrival in Latvia.

Health

The Form E111 is no longer valid. You should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before leaving the UK. The EHIC is not a substitute for medical and travel insurance, but entitles you to emergency medical treatment on the same terms as Latvian nationals. It also does not cover you for medical repatriation, on-going medical treatment or treatment of a non-urgent nature. For more general information see EHIC.

The Latvian State Infectology Centre has reported an increased number of Hepatitis A cases being admitted to hospital. As a precaution it is recommended that visitors be vaccinated against hepatitis A before arrival. Visitors should ensure that they follow general hygiene and sanitary measures to minimise the possibility of infection.

The incidence of mumps is on the increase and rabies is common. Tick-borne encephalitis is also common to Latvia, especially in the summer months.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 10,000 adults aged 15 or over in Latvia were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 0.8% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Latvia and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

Swine Flu

There are confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) - Swine Flu in Latvia. There are currently no quarantine or medical screening processes on entry to Latvia. You can check for updates on the website: http://www.sva.gov.lv/en/ (in English). You should also monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at: www.who.int/csr/diseases/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. Check the Swine Flu page of the FCO website for further information.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

General

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. You are required to have health insurance on entering Latvia. Those who require visas for Latvia need to show policies upon arrival in Latvia. For more general information see Travel Insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are oversees then this is How We Can Help.

Registration

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency. More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

Issuing replacement passports

The British Embassy is unable to issue any form of travel document other than emergency passports. This passport allows holders to return to the United Kingdom (via a third country if necessary) but cannot be used for onward travel to other countries. For more details please go to: http://ukinlatvia.fco.gov.uk/en/passports/lost-or-stolen-passports. UK passport applications from British Nationals resident in Latvia are handled by the British Passport Processing Centre in Düsseldorf, Germany. For more details please go to http://ukingermany.fco.gov.uk/en/passports/welcome.

Travelling to Latvia in winter

You should bring warm clothing if you intend to travel to Latvia in the winter (October to March). There is likely to be snow on the ground and temperatures may drop to or below -25 degrees Celsius or below.

Customs Regulations

Travellers entering the UK from European Union countries do not normally pay any UK tax or duty on excise goods they have bought tax and duty paid in EU countries for own use. But there are special rules for cigarettes and some other tobacco products from some EU countries.

The UK is maintaining limits on the amount of cigarettes and some tobacco products that travellers are able to bring in to the UK for own use from nine European Union Member States (including Latvia), without paying UK duty.

The limits are:

Estonia - 200 cigarettes or 250g of smoking tobacco.

Bulgaria, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Slovakia - 200 cigarettes.

Anyone who is carrying more than the limits should pay UK duty on those goods by entering the Customs red channel or by using the red point telephone. If travellers enter the Customs blue channel with more than the limits, then all of their tobacco may be seized.

Money

Since 15 June 2007 new legislation on the controls of cash entering or leaving the EU apply in all Member States. Any person entering or leaving the EU will have to declare the cash that they are carrying if this amounts to 10,000 euros or more; this includes cheques, travellers' cheques, money orders, etc. This will not apply to anyone travelling via the EU to a non-EU country, as long as the original journey started outside of the EU nor to those travelling within the EU.

All major credit cards are accepted and there are plenty of ATM machines for withdrawing local currency using Cirrus and credit cards.