Iceland travel advice

Travel Summary

• There are confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus - Swine Flu in Iceland (source: Chief Epidemiologist in Iceland). You can check for updates on the number of cases at the Directorate of Health website at: www.influensa.is . 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. You should monitor 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 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.
  
  
• Around 70,000 British tourists visit Iceland every year (Source: Statistics Iceland). Most visits to Iceland are trouble-free. The main type of incident for which British nationals required consular assistance in Iceland in 2008 was for replacing lost and stolen passports. Petty crime does occur, you should take normal, common sense precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime, do not leave valuables unattended.
  
  
• Our Embassy has advised that there has been no change to the exchange regulations for foreign travellers. Icelandic krona are available through banks and cash machines in Iceland.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling and, if appropriate, that this includes cover for adventure activities. 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 are a few safety concerns in Iceland you should be aware of, including the dangers of petty theft and anti-social behaviour, particularly around bars where people gather late at night, on weekends in downtown Reykjavik. Sensible precautions should be observed and you should not leave valuables lying around.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Iceland Country Profile

Local Travel

Road Travel

You should ensure that you have arranged appropriate vehicle insurance cover prior to travelling. A valid UK, or other EU/EEA driving licence is sufficient for driving in Iceland. There is no need for an International Driving Permit.

In 2008 there were 12 road deaths in Iceland (source: Umferðastofa).

Distances between towns can be great, roads narrow and winding, and speed limits low. Driving takes longer than you think. Particular care needs to be taken on gravel and loose surfaces. Driving conditions may be hazardous and roads impassable, especially in winter. Winter tyres are mandatory from approximately 1 November to 14 April (exact dates can vary year on year). You should keep dipped headlights on at all times and observe speed limits, which are, in general, lower than in the UK. Fines for exceeding the speed limit are high.

Many highland tracks only open for a short part of the summer. If you intend to drive to the highland, or remoter regions of the country, you should always check first with the Icelandic Road Administration (Vegagerdin) before departure: Tel: +354 522 1000. Vegagerdin provides up to date information on all roads in the country and will also advise you on forecasted weather conditions and on off-road driving, which is strictly controlled. You should remain alert to the possibility of rapidly changing weather patterns, including river levels, which can change dramatically even within the same day.

Drink/drive laws are strictly enforced.

Take care to read the small print on car rental agreements to ensure that you fully understand which damages are and which damages are not covered by the Excess or Damage Waiver.

For more general information see How to Drive in Iceland and 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 Iceland. For more details about this see Airline Security.

Local laws and customs

Do not become involved with drugs of any kind. Possession of even small quantities or soft drugs can lead to heavy fines and/or imprisonment. The use and/or importation of khat/qat (legal in the UK) is prohibited in Iceland.

Alcohol limits for drivers are far stricter than UK levels. Submission to a breathalyser test is mandatory. Penalties for driving under the influence are severe.

Smoking in restaurants, bars, public transport and public buildings is prohibited. Anyone caught smoking will initially be asked to leave the premises. Failure to do so will result in arrest and a fine.

You are not required to carry your passport with you at all times in Iceland, but it is sensible to keep some form of ID on you and ensure that next of kin details are entered into the back of your passport.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

Holders of valid UK passports endorsed British Citizen, British National Overseas and British Overseas Territory Citizen do not require visas for stays of up to three months. In all other cases (e.g.British Overseas Citizen) holders will require a valid Schengen visa to enter Iceland. Iceland is a member country of the EEA, which entitles British Citizens to work or reside in Iceland, providing they obtain a Residence/Work Permit from the Directorate of Immigration.

If you wish to stay more than three months in Iceland, you should contact the Directorate of Immigration, Útlendingastofnun, Skogarhlid 6, 105 Reykjavík. Tel 510-5400.

Passport validity

Three months passport validity is normally required for those intending to visit Iceland.

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 Embassy of Iceland in London.

Health

There are confirmed humans case of the H1N1 virus - Swine Flu in Iceland (source: Chief Epidemiologist in Iceland). You can check for updates on the number of cases at the Directorate of Health website at: www.influensa.is. 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. You should monitor 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.

Healthcare facilities in Iceland are of a high western standard. However, the distances between facilities can be great and whilst most towns have a health centre or basic hospital, serious cases generally necessitate ambulance/air transfer to hospital in either Reykjavik or Akureyri.

Under the terms of the EEA Regulation, British nationals are covered for emergency treatment whilst visiting Iceland. 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 Icelandic 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.

Midges can be a problem to summer visitors in countryside areas close to lakes and rivers.

To obtain emergency medical assistance in Iceland, dial 112.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that less than 500 adults aged 15 or over in Iceland were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 0.2% 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 Iceland 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.

Money

Our Embassy has advised that there has been no change to the exchange regulations for foreign travellers. Icelandic krona are available through banks and cash machines in Iceland.

Iceland is very expensive – be prepared to spend plenty of money, especially if you intend to eat and drink in restaurants and bars. Credit cards are widely used. Hotel accommodation in Iceland is often fully booked for the summer period. If you visit on flight only tickets you should ensure that all your accommodation has been reserved before departure. The British Embassy cannot assist in finding accommodation for those without bookings.

Hungary travel advice

Travel Summary

• The Hungarian Authorities have removed the epidemic alert at the airport on the grounds that they consider new cases are no longer predominantly caused by foreign travel. The rising number of confirmed cases is caused by domestic, in-country transmission.
  
  

• There are confirmed cases of the H1N1 virus (Swine Flu) in Hungary (source: Chief Medical Officer (CMO)). There are reports of confirmed and suspected Swine Flu infection in countries neighbouring Hungary. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. You should monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living-overseas/swine-flu. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk. See the Health section of this advice for more details.
  
  

• 20,000 British nationals are expected at this year's Sziget Music Festival in Budapest. Most visitors will enjoy a trouble-free and fun stay. The most common problems that British visitors to Sziget have encountered in the past have been lost and stolen passports and arrests for drug offences. The Embassy website has practical advice about staying safe at the festival www.ukinhungary.fco.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 in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  

• Around 400,000 British nationals visit Hungary each year (source: Hungarian Central Statistics Office). Most visits are trouble free. 203 British nationals required consular assistance in Hungary in the period 01 April 2006 – 31 March 2007. The main types of incident for which they required consular assistance were for replacing lost or stolen passports (109 cases); dealing with deaths (8 cases); and hospitalisations (9 cases); and dealing with arrests, for a variety of reasons (6 cases). If you need to contact the emergency services in Hungary call 112.
  
  
• We recommend 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 risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

You should take sensible precautions against the sort of risks (such as petty crime) common in Western Europe.

If you intend to attend any of the summer music festivals which takes place annually in Hungary, including the Sziget Festival which takes place each August in Budapest, you should take care of your personal belongings, and keep your valuables with you. In previous years there have been numerous cases of passports being lost or stolen at festivals, and a passport is required by anyone leaving Hungary.

You can be charged exorbitant prices in certain bars, clubs and restaurants in Budapest. This happens in a number of establishments near the large hotels in the business district (V district) of central Pest but problems occur elsewhere in the city as well.

Common scams include adding a 20,000 HUF (£60) surcharge per drink to the final bill or charging up to 100,000 HUF (£300) for a meal. Individuals who have been unable to settle their bills have frequently been accompanied by the establishment’s security guards to a cash machine and made to withdraw funds under threats of violence.

Some taxi drivers are accomplices in these frauds. They often recommend certain bars, clubs and restaurants to passengers – they receive a commission to do so, and the money is then recovered by these establishments charging extortionate prices. You should never ask a taxi driver to recommend a bar or club. If a driver offers to take you to one, or you are approached on the street with an invitation to enter a club, you should treat that advice with extreme caution. As a general rule it is better to phone for a taxi from one of the reputable local companies (your hotel can advise). You should also be careful in establishments where menus do not properly display prices. Even when prices appear to be properly displayed, if you have any doubts about a bar, restaurant or club– do not go in.

Bag snatching and pick-pocketing are common in Budapest in particular. Be particularly careful on busy public transport, in train stations, markets and other places frequented by tourists.

If you travel by overnight train you should, if possible, travel accompanied and you should secure your compartment from the inside.

Theft of and from, vehicles is common.

Do not carry large amounts of cash. Do not use street money changers.

You should take extra care when receiving bank notes as some banknotes that are no longer valid are still in circulation. We have received a very small number of reports of some taxi drivers deliberately passing these notes to tourists - as well as notes from neighbouring countries that are not valid here. Be aware especially when paying with a 10000 or a 20000 bank note.

For information on valid Hungarian bank notes please refer to the link below.

http://english.mnb.hu/engine.aspx?page=mnben_notes

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Hungary Country Profile

There are occasional political demonstrations against the Government in Budapest and elsewhere in the country. These tend to take place on or close to important national holidays with a political relevance - such as 15 March (anniversary of 1848 Revolution) and 23 October (anniversary of 1956 Anti-Soviet Uprising). There have been some cases where generally peaceful political demonstrations ended in violence. As a precaution, you should avoid all political demonstrations.

Local travel

If you intend to visit gay venues in Hungary, please be aware that there were two petrol bomb attacks on gay venues in Budapest, on 27 June and 3 July 2008, and participants in the Gay Pride march on 5 July 2008 were attacked by violent far-right protesters. General advice for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender travellers can be found on the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website at: LGBT travellers.

Road Travel

In 2007 there were 1,232 road deaths in Hungary (source: DfT). This equates to 12.2 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 illegal to drive having consumed any alcohol.

The use of headlights is compulsory on roads outside towns even in daytime.

Vehicles using the Hungarian motorways M1, M3, M5 and M7 need to be in possession of a motorway vignette, obtainable at petrol stations and post offices. Motorway toll can also be paid online http://www.ppo.hu.

In winter, equip your car for severe conditions.

For more general information see Driving Abroad. You will also find some useful information at: http://www.theaa.com/motoring_advice/touring_tips/AA_Hungary.pdf

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 Hungary. For more details about this see Airline Security.

Public transport in Budapest

Foreign visitors to Budapest are often caught out by the ticket system in Budapest, and fined by ticket inspectors. You should follow the passenger information notices, which are usually printed in English. Make sure you validate your ticket before starting your journey (i.e. before you get to the platform if travelling by Metro; and immediately after boarding buses, trams or trolley buses). You should keep your ticket until the end of your journey and show it to inspectors on request. Please note that you have to validate another ticket every time you change lines.

You should also note that a special ticket is required for use on the night service network.

For more information on ticket conditions and prices, visit the website of the Budapest Transport Authority.

Local laws and customs

Carry your passport or photo-driving licence at all times. You must be able to show some form of identity if requested, e.g.: by the police. A photocopy is not acceptable.

Hungarian laws on the possession and use of drugs are strict.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

British citizens do not require visas to enter Hungary but you must have a valid British passport. If you intend to stay more than 90 days, you must register with the nearest regional Immigration Office. For further information, contact the Consular Section of the Hungarian Embassy, London.

Passports

British citizens must have a valid passport to enter Hungary, but there is no requirement for the passport to be valid beyond the date of entry. If your passport is lost or stolen in Hungary, you will need to replace it before you leave the country (the Hungarian Border Guard will not usually accept a police report in place of a stolen passport, as is the practice in other European countries). You should therefore be sure to safeguard your passport during your stay.

Haulage vehicles

Drivers of large haulage vehicles transiting Hungary should ensure they have full vehicle documentation. International loads must be supported by a TIR carnet providing a full inventory of the goods being carried. There is a requirement to leave a financial bond with the Hungarian customs when transiting Hungary with a cargo. The financial bond, minus an administration fee is returned on leaving the country. If you are planning to transit Hungary with consignments of humanitarian aid as relief following a disaster or medical aid you should contact the Hungarian Embassy in London in advance to obtain documentation waiving this requirement.

Fines

Entry into Hungary can be barred if you have failed to pay a previous fine in Hungary. You should contact the Hungarian Embassy in London for guidance on paying any outstanding fines before you next enter Hungary.

Health

The Hungarian Authorities have removed the epidemic alert at the airport on the grounds that they consider new cases are no longer predominantly caused by foreign travel. The rising number of confirmed cases is caused by domestic, in-country transmission.

The Hungarian government is making increasing efforts to inform and educate the wider public on hygiene standards and liaison with GP’s. Vaccine production to provide government stocks has begun.

There are confirmed cases of A (H1N1) – Swine Flu in Hungary (source: Chief Medical Officer (CMO)). There are reports of confirmed and suspected Swine Flu infection in countries neighbouring Hungary. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. You should monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living-overseas/swine-flu. 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 Hungarian 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.

Before you travel you are advised to seek medical advice about inoculations and other measures to prevent tick-related medical problems (such as tick-borne encephalitis), especially if you will be visiting forested, grassy or lake-side areas.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 3,300 adults aged 15 or over in Hungary 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 Hungary 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)

In January 2007, the Hungarian authorities confirmed the existence of the H5N1 (Avian Influenza) virus strain in five dead geese in south-east Hungary. Similar cases were also reported in 2006. The Hungarian authorities have announced that strict biosecurity measures are being enforced in accordance with EU legislation. Please see Health section for further information. No human infections or deaths have been reported. No human infections or deaths have been reported.

The risk to humans from Avian Influenza is believed to be very low. As a precaution, you should avoid visiting live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; and ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.

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

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 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.

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 Hungary), without paying UK duty. Anyone who is carrying more than the limits on entering the UK 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.

All travellers who are:

a) entering or travelling via Hungary from outside the EU; or

b) leaving Hungary to travel to Austria, Belgium, Germany, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, France and Ireland; or

c) travelling to or via Hungary from Bulgaria or Romania

are allowed to carry a maximum of 200 cigarettes duty-free (providing the travellers are over 17 years of age). In Hungary, anyone exceeding this limit is likely to have their cigarettes confiscated, and could be fined or have their vehicle seized. You should check the customs regulations before entering or leaving Hungary on the following websites:

EUROPA - Travelling within the EU

EUROPA - Entering the EU

Hungarian Customs and Finance Guard

or by contacting the Hungarian Customs and Finance Guard as follows:

Postal Address: 1450 Budapest, Pf. 109, Hungary

Phone: +36-1-456-9500

Fax: +36-1-456-9525

E-mail: vam.info@mail.vpop.hu

Money

Since 15 June 2007 new legislation on the controls of cash entering or leaving the EU applies 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.

Since early 2008 there have been reports that some newer types of debit or credit cards issued in the UK do not work in certain cash machines in Hungary. The British Embassy in Budapest understands the Hungarian banks are working on a solution. In the meantime if you encounter this problem you should try a cash machine at a different bank, as only certain cash machines appear to be affected.

Greece travel advice

Travel Summary

• SkyEurope Airlines announced on 1 September the cancellation of all its European flights for the foreseeable future due to bankruptcy. Travellers who booked directly with the airline are unlikely to get a refund and should make enquiries with alternative carriers. Travellers who booked with a credit card may be able to get a refund at a later date, but should in the meantime make enquiries with other carriers. Travellers who booked through a Tour Operator should contact them to make alternative flight arrangements. A number of airlines (British Airways, Olympic, Aegean and Easy jet) offer flights to various London airports from Athens.
  

• The Greek Government have confirmed a number of cases of Swine Flu in Greece. You can check for updates on the number of cases and their locations through the World Health Organisation (WHO) website at: www.who.int. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. You should 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. Information on the Greek National Influenza Pandemic Plan can be found on the website for the Hellenic Centre for Infectious Diseases Control (KEEPLPNO) on www.keel.org.gr
  
  
• There is a general threat from terrorism, which has been on the increase. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. Calling 999 from a UK mobile in Greece will also automatically transfer you to the Greek emergency services.
  
  
• Around three million British people visit Greece every year (Source: Civil Aviation Authority). Most visits are trouble-free but you should maintain at least the same level of personal security awareness as you would in the UK. 885 British nationals required consular assistance in Greece in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (118 cases); hospitalisations (433 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (237 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (441 cases)If you need to contact the emergency services in Greece call 112.
  
  
• You should maintain high standards of public behaviour in Greece. The Greek police will not accept rowdy or indecent behaviour, especially where excessive alcohol consumption is involved. Greek courts impose heavy fines or prison sentences on people who behave indecently.
  
  
• The Metro line which connects the Airport to central Athens is currently suspended because of major engineering works. Express buses to central Athens and Piraeus leave at regular intervals on a 24 hour basis from outside the Arrivals area.
  
  
• 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 general threat from anarchist-related domestic terrorism, which has been on the increase in recent months. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

There is a history of domestic terrorism in Greece. High profile British interests in Greece should remain vigilant and regularly review their security measures. No attacks have been directed against British tourists, nor have tourist areas been affected.

Domestic anarchist groups remain active and the number and scale of attacks have increased since the shooting of a Greek teenager in December 2008, and the serious riots that followed. Primarily, these attacks have involved the use of explosive devices against Greek institutions and commercial interests. Latterly, some attacks have included the use of automatic weapons against police personnel and their facilities. Commercial and media establishments have also been targeted, and up-market shopping areas are seen by the anarchists as legitimate targets. The most recent incidents involved an explosion on 2 September outside the Athens stock exchange which is reported to have caused one slight injury, and another at a Government building in Thessaloniki with no casualties.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Most visits to Greece are trouble-free, but you should be aware that the tourist season attracts an increase in incidents of theft of wallets, handbags etc. particularly in areas and events where crowds gather. You should leave valuables in safe custody at your hotel or apartment.

Personal attacks, including sexual assaults and rape, are generally infrequent in Greece. However, this is not the case in some holiday resorts frequented by large numbers of youth tourists. In 2007 Greece was one of the countries with the highest number of cases reported to our Consular staff of British nationals who were the victim of a serious sexual offence. In some of these cases those alleged to have carried out these offences were also British Nationals. In many cases excessive consumption of alcohol by either the victim or the offender preceded the incident. For more general information see Rape and Sexual Assault Abroad.

You are therefore advised to maintain at least the same level of personal security awareness as in the UK. Be aware that alcohol and drugs can lead to you being less alert, less in control and less aware of your environment. If you are going to drink, know your limit. Remember that drinks served in bars overseas are often stronger than those in the UK. We advise lone visitors, in particular, never to accept lifts from strangers or passing acquaintances at any time.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Greece Country Profile

Greece is a stable democracy, however, public protests are a standard feature of Greek political life. General elections will be held in Greece on 4 October. You should take sensible precautions for your personal safety and avoid public gatherings and demonstrations, which have the potential to turn violent and are often quelled with tear gas.

Local Travel

Generally there are no local travel restrictions, but you should be aware that certain areas near the Greek borders are militarily sensitive. Although these areas can be visited without any problems, do not take photographs or make notes near military or official installations. In addition, travellers should seek permission before photographing individuals.

Road Travel

In 2007 there were 1,580 road deaths in Greece (source: DfT). This equates to 14.4 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

You are advised not to hire motorcycles, scooters, mopeds or quad bikes, as accidents involving these forms of transport are common and can often result in very serious or even fatal injury. You should check that your travel insurance covers you for the relevant activity (for more advice see travel insurance) and you should note that failure to wear a crash helmet might invalidate your travel insurance if you are involved in an accident.

If you intend to hire a moped you should be aware that you would require a valid driving licence with at least category A1 - 'light motorcycle` for this purpose. Category P, which is valid in the UK for driving mopeds up to 50cc is not valid in Greece. Greek law requires you to wear a crash helmet on a scooter, moped or motorcycle. You may be arrested if you do not.

You should be aware that when hiring a vehicle, hire companies will often demand your passport as a form of security. You are advised not to hand over your passport under any circumstance. You should also check any waiver which will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged.

Quad bike riders require a full-face helmet (or non-full-face helmet plus goggles) under Greek law. Road insurance and a motorcycle licence are also mandatory.

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 Greece. For more details about this see Airline Security.

Local laws and customs

Greek people are renowned for their hospitality. The Greek police are used to dealing with large numbers of foreign tourists, especially on the islands and do so in a low-key way.

Indecent behaviour, including mooning, is not tolerated. The police have made it clear that they will not hesitate to arrest those who do it. You should be aware that the courts impose heavy fines or prison sentences on people who behave indecently. You should bear in mind that some fancy dress costumes may offend the local Greek authorities and be considered as contravening decency laws.

You should not become involved with drugs of any kind, nor bring drugs – including “class C” drugs – from the UK. Possession of even small quantities can lead to long terms of imprisonment. You should also know your alcohol limits as your travel insurance may in some cases not cover you after excessive drinking.

The plant Khat is an illegal narcotic in Greece. You will be arrested and detained with the possibility of a prison sentence if you are caught trying to take Khat into Greece.

Driving any vehicle whilst over the legal drinking limit is heavily penalised and can result in a heavy fine and/or imprisonment.

If you are seeking employment in bars or night clubs in Greece, you are required to have a health certificate/licence issue by the local authorities. Failure to have such a certificate is punishable by a fine and or imprisonment.

In common with many countries there is a requirement in Greece to be able to identify yourself. A passport or document with a photograph on it should be carried at all times.

In order to comply with Greek law, you should ensure that you obtain a receipt for goods purchased. If you purchase pirate CDs or DVDs in Greece you could be imprisoned.

You should not purchase any offensive weapons whilst on holiday. This includes items such as knuckledusters or knives with a blade length of 10cm or above.

From 1 July 2009, it is illegal to smoke in hospitals, schools, vehicles and all public places. The penalty for violating this law is a fine of up to €500.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

Visas are not required to enter Greece. As a British passport holder you may stay as a visitor for three months. For longer stays, you will need to apply to the appropriate office for a residence permit.

Passport validity

Non-EEA (European Economic Area) nationals travelling to Greece must have a passport valid for at least 3 months after the period of their intended stay or expiry date of their visa.

Nationals of the EEA are exempt from the above regulation but must have a passport valid for the period of their intended 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. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration, please contact the Greek Embassy in London.

Health

A (H1N1) - Swine Flu

The Greek Government have confirmed a number of cases of Swine Flu in Greece. You can check for updates on the number of cases and their locations through the World Health Organisation (WHO) website at: www.who.int. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. You should 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 Hellenic Centre for Infectious Diseases Control (KEELPNO) has also released guidance in English about their pandemic planning. Travellers should be aware that should they contract swine flu when overseas, they may be subject to quarantine and treatment to prevent the spread of the disease. Information can be found on their website: www.keel.org.gr

The Greek National Health system provides a basic medical service to Greek nationals and it has a reciprocal agreement with the British National Health Service. There are many public and private Hospitals and Medical Centres in Greece, all of varying standards. Doctors and facilities are generally good on the mainland, but may be limited on the islands. The standards of nursing and after care, particularly in the public health sector lag behind what is normally acceptable in the UK. The Public Ambulance Service, which will normally respond to any accident, is rudimentary. There are severe shortages of ambulances on some islands.

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 Greek 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 around 11,000 adults aged 15 or over in Greece were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 0.2% 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 Greece 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

Earthquakes

Mainland Greece and most of the Greek islands popular with British tourists are in seismically active zones, and earth tremors are common. Serious earthquakes are less frequent but do occur.

Forest Fires

Forest fires are very common during Greece’s hot and dry summers. Outbreaks are occurring regularly and, although these are being quickly brought under control by the Greek Fire Service and travel has not been disrupted, it is important to be aware of the potential outbreaks and remain alert. In particular, please take care when visiting or driving through woodland and forest areas; ensure that cigarette ends are properly extinguished and disposed of carefully, do not light barbecues and do not leave any rubbish, particularly empty bottles, behind.

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.

Money

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

Sine 15 July 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.

Gibraltar travel advice

Travel Summary

• There are confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus – Swine Flu in Gibraltar (source: Gibraltar Health Authority). 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. 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 Government of Gibraltar has indicated that when an individual with the H1N1 virus - Swine Flu is detected the medical protocol is that the patient will remain isolated for seven days and treated. There is currently no entry-exit screening at the airport or frontier.
  
  
• Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory. There is no formal British consular representation in Gibraltar and the local authorities deal with all requests for consular assistance. See the General section of this travel advice for more details.
  
  
• There is an underlying threat from terrorism in Gibraltar. Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• If you are travelling to Spain as well as Gibraltar, you should check the Travel advice for Spain.
  
  
• Most visits to Gibraltar are trouble-free. Violence or street crime is rare.
  
  
• 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 an underlying threat from terrorism in Gibraltar. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Violence or street crime is rare. However there have been reports of people walking from La Linea (Spain) to Gibraltar at night being attacked and robbed.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad. Please note as Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory there is no formal British Consular Representation. We are therefore unable to offer full assistance as described in this link.

Political Situation

Gibraltar Country Profile

Local Travel

Road Travel

Border Queues

Vehicles may experience delays when entering Gibraltar from Spain and vice versa. These delays increase during the high season and traffic flow in and out can be very slow particularly during peak hours: mornings coming into Gibraltar and early evening leaving Gibraltar. It is advisable to take water with you during the hot summer months.

However this rarely affects those entering/leaving Gibraltar on foot.

Those travelling by car can find out the latest information on the queue by calling (tel: +(350) 200 42777).

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Local laws and customs

You should be aware that there is a low tolerance of any alcohol or drugs-related crime e.g. being drunk in a public place. Driving with a blood/ alcohol level greater than 0.5 ml is illegal.

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

Entry requirements

A full valid British passport is required for all British nationals visiting Gibraltar. As Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory, no prior entry visa is required for British nationals.

For further information on entry requirements, you are advised to check with either:

The Gibraltar Government Office, 150 Strand, London W2CR 1JA; Tel: 020 7836 0777; email info@gibraltar.gov.uk; Website: http://www.gibraltar.gov.uk

The Principal Immigration Officer, Police Headquarters, Gibraltar; e-mail: rgpimm@gibtelecom.net or pacompol@gibtelecom.net ; tel: +(350) 200 725;00 fax: + (350) 200 45489 or +(350) 200 74198. (Note – during summer months, this office is open until 13:00 GMT).

Health

There are confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus - Swine Flu in Gibraltar (source: Gibraltar Health Authority). 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. 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 Government of Gibraltar has indicated that when an individual with the H1N1 virus - Swine Flu is detected the medical protocol is that the patient will remain isolated for seven days and treated. There is currently no entry-exit screening at the airport or frontier.

Most medical problems can be dealt with locally. The main hospital is St Bernard’s at Europort (tel: +350 200 79700).

If you are a British national resident in the UK you can obtain emergency treatment in Gibraltar by presenting your UK passport as proof of residence. However, as some emergency treatment may require transfer to Spain or the UK, you should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which has replaced Form E111, 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 Spanish 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 Gibraltar 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. Please note as Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory there is no formal British Consular Representation. We are therefore unable to offer full assistance as described in this link.

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.

Import and Export of Goods

Gibraltar is not part of the EU Common Customs Territory.

The amount of goods (e.g. tobacco and alcohol) that you can take into and out of Gibraltar is therefore more limited than for visits between the UK and other EU countries, for example when bought tax-paid.

Importing to Gibraltar

Information on Duty Free Allowances when arriving in Gibraltar can be found at: Gibraltar Customs (importing to Gibraltar).

If you regularly enter or return to Gibraltar (ie more than once in a calendar month), you are not entitled to Duty Free Imports.

Exporting to Spain

You should declare any duty free goods to Spanish customs officers on leaving Gibraltar.

Exporting to the UK

If you are returning directly to the UK from Gibraltar, information on the Duty Free allowances is available at: http://www.gibraltar.gov.gi/gov_depts/customs/customs_index.htm.

Consular Assistance

Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory and as such there is no formal British Consular Representation. All consular protection services needed by British nationals are delivered by the Government of Gibraltar Civil Status and Registration Office as follows.

(Birth and Death registration enquiries:

Tel: + (350) 200 78303

Fax: + (350) 200 42706

Marriage bookings and information on marriage requirements in Gibraltar:

Tel: + (350) 200 72289

Fax: + (350) 200 42706

Email: marriages@gibtelecom.net

Visa information:

Tel: + (350) 200 51726

Fax: + (350) 200 42706

Email: csro@gibtelecom.net

Passport Information:

Tel: + (350) 200 51725, 51727 or 51728

Fax: + (350) 200 42706

Email: csro@gibtelecom.net

Immigration information:

Tel: + (350) 200 51725 or 59832

Fax: + (350) 200 43053

Email: immigration@gibtelecom.net

Money

Sterling is the currency in Gibraltar, and British notes and coins circulate alongside Gibraltar pounds and pence. (NB Gibraltar notes and coins are not accepted in UK and Scottish & Northern Irish notes are not accepted by most businesses in Gibraltar.) Euros are accepted but with an exchange rate (not necessarily favourable) and change normally given in Sterling.

UK debit cards and all major credit cards are readily accepted in Gibraltar.

Germany travel advice

Travel Summary

• There are confirmed human cases of the A (H1N1) virus (Swine Flu) in Germany. 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 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 general threat from terrorism in Germany. Such attacks could be indiscriminate, including in public places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. See the Terrorism section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• We are aware of British nationals who have been arrested for possessing counterfeit currency. We advise against changing currency anywhere other than banks or legitimate Bureaux de Change.
  
  
• 2,219,000 British nationals visited Germany in 2007 (Source: Statistisches Bundesamt Deutschland - www.destatis.de ). Most visits are trouble-free. 682 British nationals required consular assistance in Germany in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March -2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (438 cases); hospitalisations (48 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (148 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (990 cases). If you need to contact the emergency services in Germany call 112.
  
  
• You should carry your passport with you at all times. German police have the right to ask to see identification.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling to Germany. 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 general threat from terrorism in Germany. Such attacks could be indiscriminate, including in public places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. On 4 September 2007, three individuals were arrested and charged with membership of a terrorist organisation. Although the German security authorities have averted serious terrorist attacks, they assess that the threat from terrorism remains high and urge individuals to maintain a high level of vigilance.

Two explosive devices were found on regional trains in the Dortmund and Koblenz areas on 31 July 2006. These were made safe and three men have now been arrested as part of a continuing investigation.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

You should take normal, sensible precautions to avoid mugging, bag snatching and pickpocketing. You should be extra vigilant at airports railway stations and Christmas Markets. Do not leave valuables unattended.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Germany Country Profile

Local Travel

From 1 January 2008, in an effort to significantly reduce harmful pollutant levels, there will be an environmental zone (umweltzone) in Berlin's inner city centre. Only vehicles that meet specific exhaust emission standards will be allowed to enter the zone. Any vehicles with especially high emissions will be barred.

Please see the following link for full details.

http://www.berlin.de/

Road Travel

If you wish to drive in Germany you must carry a valid driving licence, insurance and vehicle documents with you in the vehicle at all times. If the vehicle does not belong to the driver, written permission from the registered owner may also be requested.

The minimum age for driving a car in Germany is 18 years old. 17 year-old British drivers with valid British licences are not permitted to drive a car. Anyone who contravenes this law may be fined and your vehicle will be impounded. Advice on driving outside the UK can be obtained from motoring organisations such as the AA and RAC.

In 2007 there were 4,949 road deaths in Germany (source: DfT). This equates to 6.0 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.

Many drivers undertake long journeys in, or through, Germany. Care should be taken to plan journeys and take sufficient breaks; a minimum break of 15 minutes after every two hours of driving is recommended.

It is illegal to take part in motor vehicle races or rallies on German roads. Such activities constitute an offence under paragraph 29 of the German Highway Code. Offenders are liable to be detained, fined and to have their vehicles confiscated.

Pedestrians in Germany should be aware that it is illegal and dangerous to cross German pedestrian crossings when the red pedestrian light is on. Offenders render themselves liable to a fine and all costs in the event of an accident.

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 France. For more details about this see Airline Security

Local laws and customs

You should carry your valid passport with you at all times. German police have the right to ask to see identification. For British citizens, the only acceptable form of ID is a valid passport.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

You need a valid passport to enter Germany.

British Citizens and EU passport holders do not require a visa.

Passport validity

British nationals must enter Germany with a valid passport.

Stays of longer than three months

If you intend to stay in Germany for three months or more you must register with the German authorities (Einwohnermeldeamt) within seven days of arrival. Those staying in Germany for a short visit are not normally required to register. Hotels are legally obliged to register guests and this information is passed automatically to the Einwohnermeldeamt.

There is no longer a requirement for EU Citizens to apply for a residence permit.

Working in Germany

If you intend to work in Germany, you should obtain detailed information on employment regulations from the German Embassy.

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 German Embassy.

Health

There are confirmed human cases of the A (H1N1) virus (Swine Flu) in Germany. The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase has been raised to Level 6. The WHO website at http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. Check the FCO Swine Flu page for further information. 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

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 German 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 around 52,000 adults aged 15 or over in Germany 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 Germany 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)

German Health officials have confirmed a case of the infectious H5N1 bird flu at a poultry farm in Saxony, eastern Germany. Animals within a 3km area of the farm are being quarantined and checks are being carried out on animals within a 10km area.

The risk to humans from Avian Influenza is believed to be very low. As a precaution you should avoid visiting live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; and ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.

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

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 the all 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 Passports

The British Consulate-General, Düsseldorf is the only passport issuing post within Germany. However Emergency Passports (EPs) can be obtained from either the British Embassy Berlin, the British Consulates-General, Munich and Düsseldorf, or the Honorary-Consul office Hamburg (arranged by calling the British Embassy Berlin).

An Emergency Passport is a piece of paper valid for 1 journey to the UK. This paper is usually surrendered on arrival to the UK and you must then obtain a new passport from your nearest Passport Office in the UK.

A call centre now handles all passport enquiries. If you wish to speak to an operator please call Careline on 0044 208 082 4723 or from Austria 0044 208 082 4724 between 08:00 and 17:00 GMT Monday to Friday. Alternatively please email consular.section@duesseldorf.mail.fco.gov.uk.

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.

Georgia travel advice

Travel Summary

• We continue to advise against all travel to the separatist regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. Unless you are carrying out essential business, such as humanitarian work, we advise against travel to areas near the Administrative Boundaries of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, in particular Zugdidi (unless transiting on the way to Svaneti) and villages north of Gori. Tension remains high around the Administrative Border Lines with Abkhazia and South Ossetia. You should exercise caution if you travel along the M27 (also known as the M1) road, particularly where it runs very close to South Ossetia, i.e. between Gori and Khashuri and between the Stepantsminda/Gudauri turnoff and Gori, where there wasa kidnapping in February 2009. . There remains a risk of local volunteer militia or criminal activity along this road. We do not recommend that you use the M27 during the hours of darkness.
  
  
• We also do not recommend that you travel north from the M27 between the points named above, or west of the Georgian Military highway as there is also a risk of criminal or militia activity in the Akhalgori area.
  
  
• The situation remains fluid. If you plan to visit any of the areas detailed above on essential business we advise that you liaise closely with the British Embassy, Tbilisi.
  
  
• All British nationals should monitor developments closely and check this travel advice regularly. British nationals in Georgia who have not done so already should register with the British Embassy.
  
  
• There have been some reports of mines and other explosions. There is some risk from unexploded ordnance in areas in which fighting took place last August or in military installations where Russian troops were present. You should avoid these areas until they are reported as having been cleared. International monitors have been shot at in the vicinity of the South Ossetian boundary line and there was a landmine attack on 21 June near the Abkhazian boundary line which killed a Georgian ambulance driver working with the EU Monitoring Mission.
  
  
• International flights are operating normal services into and out of Tbilisi International Airport.
  
  
• There are confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus (Swine Flu) in Georgia (source: Georgian Health authorities). The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase has been raised to Level 6. The WHO website at: http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. You should 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 also 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.
  
  
• The main type of incident for which British nationals required consular assistance in Georgia in 2008 was for replacing lost and stolen passports. Crime against foreigners is generally low, but does occur. See the Crime 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 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.

Political Situation

Georgia Country Profile

Crime

Crime targeting foreigners is not uncommon, as they are perceived to be much wealthier than the average Georgian. Do not carry large amounts of cash or wear eye-catching jewellery and try not to draw attention to yourself. There are incidents of residential break-ins, car theft, petty theft and robbery and occasionally armed crime throughout Georgia. In Tbilisi you should take precautions when visiting tourist areas and areas frequented by foreigners, such as Vake, Saburtalo and the bar area of Perovskaya near Republic Square. You should not walk alone in the Narikala Fortress and Mother Greorgia area of Tbilisi as a number of tourists have been mugged there.

You are advised to be vigilant when travelling or walking at any time. Take extra precautions after dark. We recommend you do not walk alone, and where possible, travel by licensed taxi. Whilst the electricity situation in Georgia has improved, power cuts can still occur, so you should consider carrying a torch.

The threat of kidnapping exists in Georgia, but common sense precautions may reduce the risk. You should vary routes to and from work. Keep doors locked while driving.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Local Travel

The demonstrations which have been held in Tbilisi since 9 April 2009 have now ended. It is unclear whether further demonstrations are planned, or what form they will take.

We advise against all travel to the separatist regions of South Ossetia, Abkhazia and also the upper Kodori Valley) also known as upper Abkhazia). Unless you are carrying out essential business, such as humanitarian work, we advise against travel to areas near the Administrative Boundaries of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, in particular Zugdidi (unless transiting on the way to Svaneti) and villages north of Gori. Tension remains high along the Administrative Border Lines with Abkhazia and South Ossetia and is likely to continue. You should exercise caution if you travel along the M27 (also known as the M1) road, particularly where it runs very close to South Ossetia, i.e. between the Stepantsminda/Gudauri turnoff and Gori, where there was a kidnapping in February 2009, and between Gori and Khashuri. There remains a risk of local volunteer militia or criminal activity in these, and the area around Akhalgori. If you are entering any of the areas detailed above on essential business, you should liaise closely with the British Embassy, Tbilisi prior to travelling. We do not recommend that you use the M27 during the hours of darkness.

We advise against all travel to the separatist regions of South Ossetia, Abkhazia and also the upper Kodori Valley) also known as upper Abkhazia). Unless you are carrying out essential business, such as humanitarian work, we advise against travel to areas near the Administrative Boundaries of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, in particular Zugdidi (unless transiting on the way to Svaneti) and villages north of Gori. You should exercise extreme caution if you travel along the M27 (also known as the M1) road, particularly where it runs very close to South Ossetia, i.e. between the Stepantsminda/Gudauri turnoff and Gori, where there was a kidnapping in February 2009, and between Gori and Khashuri. There remains a risk of local volunteer militia or criminal activity in these, and the Akhalgori areas. If you are entering any of the areas detailed above on essential business, you should liaise closely with the British Embassy, Tbilisi prior to travelling. We do not recommend that you use the M27 during the hours of darkness.

There is some risk from unexploded ordinance in areas where fighting took place in August 2008, or in military installations where Russian troops were present. There have been some reports of mines and other explosions. You should avoid these areas until they are confirmed as having been cleared. International monitors have been shot at in the vicinity of the South Ossetian Administrative Boundary, and a mine attack near the Abkhaz Administrative Boundary killed a Georgian ambulance driver working with the EUMM on 21 June.

It is illegal to enter Georgia via South Ossetia or Abkhazia as there is no official border control. If you do so you may face criminal prosecution, which carries a prison sentence of up to fours years. If your passport contains entry/exit stamps from the separatist authorities the Georgian authorities may consider this as illegal entry into Georgia via an unrecognised border crossing.

You should also not attempt to enter or leave Georgia via the land borders with the Russian Federation (i.e. Dagestan, Chechnya, Ingushetia, North Ossetia) as this is not permitted under Russian Federation law. We advise against all travel to the separatist regions.

Mountaineering/Hiking

If you encounter difficulties while mountaineering or hiking in Georgia, it may be difficult to organise the level of emergency/rescue assistance which you would expect in more developed tourist destinations.

It can be difficult to get accurate information on mountain conditions. If you are considering trekking or mountaineering we advise you to contact Georgian companies that provide specialist guides.

Road Travel

You can drive in Georgia using a licence issued by an EU country or by using an International Driving Licence.

Driving is on the right. The speed limit is 60 kph in towns and cities. Outside of towns it is 80 kph unless sign-posted.

In Georgia a blood alcohol level higher than zero is considered to be driving under the influence of alcohol.

If possible avoid driving at night. Many roads are badly lit and are of poor quality. Driving conditions are stressful, and often confusing. The majority of cars are poorly maintained, and the standard of driving is erratic.

It is compulsory to wear seat belts in Georgia. Children under seven years of age are required to sit in child-safety seats.

Heavy rain and flooding often affect roads and bridges making travel difficult or impossible (particularly in remote areas). When travelling outside of Tbilisi your vehicle should be suitably equipped to deal with a range of adverse situations.

If using taxis in Tbilisi, and other cities, it is safer to use licensed taxis.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Rail Travel

If you travel by train, do not leave your valuables or the compartment unattended. Ensure the compartment door is secured from the inside.

Air Travel

Evidence suggests that some airlines from Georgia do not always comply with international safety standards in respect of maintenance. FCO staff have therefore been advised to avoid flying with non-scheduled or non-international airlines from Georgia if an acceptable alternative means of travel exists. Where possible, you should fly directly to your destination on a scheduled international flight.

Local laws and customs

Drug penalties

Illegal drug use (no matter what you are using) carries stiff administrative and criminal penalties including fines and long prison terms. The penalty for smuggling drugs carries a prison term of between five to 20 years and/or heavy fines.

Identification

You should carry a copy of your passport at all times and keep the original in a safe place.

Homosexuality

Homosexuality is legal in Georgia, but is not thought widely acceptable in society. This has not transposed into violence against homosexuals.

Photography in sensitive areas

You should refrain from photographing sensitive sites such as military bases and power installations. Always seek permission if in doubt. You should also be aware of cultural sensitivities when photographing churches and other religious sites. If in doubt, ask prior permission.

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

South Ossetia and Abkhazia

Following hostilities, British nationals should note that the government of Georgia does not recognise the unilateral declarations of independence by either South Ossetia or Abkhazia and, in accordance with international law, continues to claim the right to exercise sovereignty in the two territories. The UK government, along with those of all EU member states and the United States, recognises their right to do so.

The government of Georgia is in the process of implementing legislation which would require those trading with Abkhazia and South Ossetia to hold a licence, issued by the Georgian government. This will extend to buying and selling property and to most financial transactions. Those who trade without licences may be open to penalties under Georgian civil and criminal law.

The ownership of many properties is disputed across both regions with many thousands of claims to ownership of properties from people displaced following recent conflicts. Purchase of these properties could have serious financial and legal implications. Purchasers could face legal proceedings in the courts of Georgia, as well as attempts to enforce judgements from these courts elsewhere in the EU, including the UK. Potential purchasers should also consider that a future settlement could have consequences for property they purchase in South Ossetia and Abkhazia (including possible restitution of the property to its original owners).

Entry requirements

Visas

As a British national you may enter Georgia for up to 360 days without a visa. You may extend your stay in Georgia beyond 360 days by applying for a temporary or permanent residence permit from the Civil Registration Agency of the Ministry of Justice of Georgia. Georgian law provides for the immediate deportation of anyone who overstays without a valid permit, together with a ban on re-entering Georgian territory for up to one year.

Travelling with children

If you travel to or in Georgia with a child other than your own, you must be able to be able to demonstrate that you have the consent of the child’s parents or guardians.

Health

There are confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus (Swine Flu) in Georgia (source: Georgian Health authorities. The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase has been raised to Level 6. The WHO website at: http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. You should 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 also be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.

Medical facilities in Tbilisi are available but can be expensive. Outside of Tbilisi, medical facilities are limited.

Rabies is common in Georgia.

Tap water should be avoided. Bottled water is widely available.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 2,700 adults aged 15 or over in Georgia 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 Georgia 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 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)

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has confirmed that there have been outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in wild swans in the Adjara region of Georgia, 300km from Tbilisi. No human infections or deaths have been reported.

The risk to humans from Avian Influenza is believed to be very low. As a precaution, you should avoid visiting live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; and ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.

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

Natural disasters

Georgia is situated in an area of seismic activity. The last earthquake in Tbilisi, with a magnitude between 4.3 and 6.0 on the Richter scale was in April 2002 when six people died and there was some serious infrastructural damage.

General

Insurance

You are advised to obtain comprehensive medical as well as travel insurance to cover illness, injury and loss of money, baggage and tickets 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.

Registering with the British Embassy

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.

We strongly recommend that British nationals resident in or visiting Georgia register their presence with the Embassy. This allows us to keep in touch with you when you are in Georgia and to provide consular assistance in the event of an emergency.

Money

Although prices are often quoted in US dollars and Euros, according to Georgian law, all goods and services should be paid for in local currency (Georgian Lari). You are advised not to carry large amounts of cash.

Credit cards are increasingly being used and ATMs can be found in major cities. Travellers’ Cheques are not widely accepted.