Spain travel advice

Travel Summary

• There is a high threat from terrorism in Spain. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. Recent attacks have taken place on the island of Mallorca (Majorca), in Burgos and in Bilbao in the North of Spain. See the Terrorism section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• There are confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus (Swine flu) in Spain. If you are concerned about the outbreak of the H1N1 virus, there is a dedicated freephone number for British nationals overseas: (+44) 207 928 1010. You can check for updates through the Spanish Ministry of Health website: http://www.msc.es/en/home.htm (in Spanish). Tel: 901 400 100. 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/ 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. There are currently no quarantine measures in place for Spain.
  
  
• Since mid-July, forest fires have spread across many of Spain's regions. Aragon, the Canary Islands, Catalonia and Murcia have been particularly badly affected. The fires have claimed a number of lives, mainly of firefighters. Visitors throughout Spain should be alert to the risk in rural areas and should take care to avoid any actions that could cause fires. Significant punishments exist for such actions, which include carelessness when disposing of cigarette ends.
  
  
• In March 2004, 192 people died and over 1400 were injured following bomb attacks on three trains in Madrid. A group purporting to represent Al Qa’ida claimed responsibility.
  
  
• Around 17 million visits to Spain each year are made by British nationals (Source: Instituto de Estudios Turisticos - IET). 5,430 British nationals required consular assistance in Spain in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (1,825 cases); hospitalisations (741 cases) and arrests, for a variety of reasons (2,290 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (7,548 cases). You should also be alert to the existence of street crime. See the Crime section of this advice for more details. If you need to contact the emergency services in Spain call 112.
  
  
• On 1 January 2006 legislation came into effect across Spain which brought in controls covering smoking in bars, restaurants and other workplaces. Additional legislation has since come into effect bringing in more stringent controls on drinking & sexual activity in public places. This includes Spanish beaches, where regulations have increased significantly. Fines imposed for breach of regulations range from €30 to a maximum of €1500 .
  
  
• Since 19 June 2007, passengers flying to Spain have needed to supply to their airline details of their date of birth, nationality, and passport number before flying. This is part of EU-wide measures to improve security. Further information can be found at: Direct gov - Air Travel .
  
  
• We recommend that comprehensive travel and medical insurance is obtained before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a high threat from terrorism in Spain. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. The Spanish authorities are fully aware of the impact of terrorism and take measures to protect visitors, but you should be vigilant. Disruptions from real or hoax terror attempts can be expected and a high level of alert is being maintained. You should follow the instructions of the local police and other authorities.

The Basque terrorist organisation ETA announced a 'ceasefire' in March 2006, and declared an end to this ceasefire on 5 June 2007. Their last major attack was on 30 December 2006, when a large car bomb exploded in the multi-storey car park at Terminal 4 of Barajas International Airport in Madrid, killing two people. ETA remains active. British nationals are not a target for ETA but there is a risk they may be caught up in an attack. Ten bombs exploded on trains in Madrid on 11 March 2004. 192 people died. A group purporting to represent Al Qa'ida claimed responsibility.

Recent terrorist activities :

• 09 August 2009 - following warnings given, there were four small controlled explosions in and around Palma de Mallorca (Majorca). No casualties were reported.
• 30 July 2009 - a bomb exploded in Palma Nova on the island of Mallorca (Majorca) killing two Civil Guard Officers. Although the Civil Guard barracks appears to have been the target, it was close to a tourist area. ETA subsequently claimed responsibility.
• 29 July 2009 - a van bomb exploded outside Civil Guard Barracks in Burgos causing minor injuries to 66 people.
• 19 June 2009 – a car bomb exploded in Bilbao killing one police officer. No other casualties were reported.
• 09 February 2009 - a car bomb exploded in the Campo de las Naciones area of Madrid (on the eastern outskirts, towards the airport). The Red Cross received a warning phone call in the name of ETA at 0730. No casualties are reported.
  

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

The great majority of the 17 million visits made to Spain by British nationals are trouble-free. But street crime does exist in the main tourist areas.

Personal attacks, including sexual assaults and rape are infrequent. Nevertheless attacks occur and are often carried out by other British nationals. You should also be alert to the availability and possible use of "date rape" and other drugs, including "GHB" and liquid ecstasy. You should purchase your own drinks and keep sight of them at all times to make sure they cannot be spiked. Female travellers in particular should maintain a high state of personal awareness during their time in Spain. Be aware that alcohol and drugs can lead you to being less alert, less in control and less aware of your environment. If you are going to drink, know your limit, and remember that drinks served in bars are often stronger than those in the UK. Avoid splitting up from your friends, and don't go off with people you don't know. For more general information see Rape and Sexual Assault Abroad.

Street crime is occasionally accompanied by violence. Remain alert and guard valuable personal items at all times. The majority of reported thefts are a result of items being left unattended or thieves using distraction techniques.

If you are a victim of crime, you should call 902 102 112 to make a denuncia (police report). Alternatively you can visit the Spanish Police's website: http://www.policia.es/denuncia/index.htm.

Drivers should be wary of approaches by bogus police officers, in plain clothes and travelling in unmarked cars. In all traffic-related matters police officers will be in uniform. Unmarked vehicles will have a flashing electronic sign on the rear window which reads "Policia" or "Guardia Civil", and normally have blue flashing lights incorporated into the headlights, which are activated by the Police when they stop you. In non-related traffic matters police officers may be in plain clothes but in any case members of the public have the right to ask police officers to identify themselves. The Guardia Civil or Police will ask you to show them your documents only and do not request that you hand over your bag or wallet. If in any doubt, drivers should converse through the car window and contact the Guardia Civil on 062 or the Spanish National Police on 112 and ask them to confirm that the registration number of the vehicle corresponds to an official police vehicle.

Thieves posing as Police Officers may ask to see wallets for identification purposes. Holders should proceed with precaution, first establishing that the officers are genuine. Should the police request ID, they should be shown your passport, driver's licence or other photographic identification. Genuine Police Officers would not request to see wallets or purses.

Motorists should be on the look out for "highway pirates" who target foreign registered and hire cars, especially those towing caravans. If you decide to stop to check the condition of your vehicle, you should be extremely wary of anyone offering help.

Lottery Scams

There have been complaints about lottery scams, in which a person receives what appears to be official notification from the Spanish Inland Revenue office (Hacienda) that they have won the Spanish lottery and are required to deposit an amount of money in a bank account to secure their substantial winnings. It is likely to be a scam if you have not entered a lottery, are asked to pay anything up-front or if the contact telephone number is for a mobile phone.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Spain Country Profile

Local Travel

In addition to this general travel advice for Spain, please also see the local travel advice for the region you are visiting, which can be found on the website of the British Embassy in Madrid at http://ukinspain.fco.gov.uk:

• Alicante (including the autonomous regions of Valencia, Murcia and Albacete)
• Barcelona (including the regions of Catalonia, Aragon, and the Principality of Andorra)
• Bilbao (including the regions of Leon, Palencia and Burgos in Castilla Leon)
• Ibiza (including Ibiza and Formentera)
• Las Palmas (including Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura)
• Malaga (including Andalucia and the Spanish Autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla, in the North of Africa)
• Palma de Mallorca (including Mallorca and Menorca)
• Tenerife (including Tenerife, La Palma, El Hierro and La Gomera)

Gibraltar

Spanish border checks can cause delays to travellers crossing between Spain and Gibraltar.

Andorra

If you are travelling to Andorra, you should see Travel Advice for Andorra.

Road Travel

You should take particular care when driving in Spain as regulations and customs are different from those in the UK and the accident rate is higher. In 2008 there were 2,821 road deaths in Spain (source: El Pais). This is approximately 20% less than the number of road deaths reported in 2007.

It is a legal requirement for motorists travelling to or transiting Spain to carry two red warning triangles to be placed, in the event of an accident or breakdown, in front of and behind the vehicle. In addition, drivers must have a spare pair of spectacles (if needed for driving), a spare wheel, and a full set of spare bulbs plus the tools to change them. If at any time you have to descend from your vehicle due to accident or breakdown, or whilst awaiting the arrival of the emergency services, it is obligatory to wear a reflective jacket. Failure to do so could result in a heavy fine.

Also, carry a certificate of insurance in case you are stopped. If you have a car hire and have purchased the insurance, you should be given documentation. If you are using your home insurance, carry your certificate with you at all times. Keep in mind that this is generally only good for a stay of shorter than three months. If you are staying longer, contact your broker.

Spain has stricter drink driving laws than may other countries. The legal limit is 0.05%, and 0.01% for new drivers. They are serious about drink driving and have strict penalties such as heavy fines, loss of license and imprisonment.

Seat belts are required for all passengers, whether in the front or back seat of the vehicle. No children under the age of twelve should be in the front seat. Spain also has laws requiring small children to be in an approved child safety seat in the back seat. Your car hire agency can provide a seat for you, just let them know at the time your reserve the car.

Talking on mobile phones when driving is forbidden by Spanish law. This includes talking in your car when pulled over to the side of the road. You must be completely away from the road. You can talk with a completely hands-free unit. Using an ear piece is also prohibited.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Rail Travel

On 3 July 2006, there was a serious accident on the metro in the city of Valencia, causing 42 fatalities, and injuring 39.

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 Spain. For more general information see Airline Security.

Local laws and customs

Respect Spanish laws and customs. Parents should be aware that Spanish law defines anyone under the age of 18 to be a minor, subject to parental control or adult supervision. Any unaccompanied minors that come to the attention of the Spanish local authorities (for whatever reason but particularly in connection with criminal incidents or when in hospital) are deemed to be vulnerable under the law and face being taken into a Minors’ centre for their protection until their situation is resolved and a parent or suitable guardian can be found.

There is a requirement to provide proof of your identify if requested by a Police Officer. The only legally acceptable documents by Spanish Police are a passport or a national identification card. The Spanish Police have the right to hold you at a police station until your identity is confirmed.

On 1 January 2006 restrictive legislation against smoking in public places came into effect. Fines imposed for breaches of the regulation could range from €30 to a maximum of €600.

In Spain, possession of even a small quantity of drugs can cause significant problems, such as arrest and detention. Being found in possession of large quantities will probably result in prosecution and a custodial sentence upon conviction.

Some regional Governments in Spain have banned the consumption of alcohol in the street. Failure to respect this law may result in the imposition of fines. Please check the local travel advice for the region you are visiting.

Hotels have a legal obligation to register the passport details of tourists on check-in. You are advised to wait until the Hotel staff have registered your passport details or taken a photocopy of your passport, rather than leaving the passport in reception and collecting it later. It may help to take your own photocopy.

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

Entry requirements

Visa Requirements

If you are a British Citizen or British Subject with Right of Abode in the United Kingdom, you do not require a visa to enter Spain. Other British Nationals should confirm the current entry requirements with their nearest Spanish Diplomatic Mission.

Passport validity

A valid British passport must be held for entry to and exit from Spain. There is no minimum passport validity requirement but you should ensure that your passport is valid for the proposed period of your stay.

Staying for longer than three months

Since 28 March 2007 all EU citizens planning to reside in Spain for more than three months are required to register in person at the Foreigner's Office (Oficina de Extranjeros) in their province of residence or at designated Police stations. However, you will no longer be issued with a residence card and, instead, you will be issued a certificate stating your name, address, nationality, identity number and date of registration. The certificate serves as confirmation that the registration obligation has been fulfilled, but it is not recognised by the local authorities as a valid form of identification and you are not obliged to keep the certificate with you. See the Local Laws and Customs section of this advice for acceptable forms of ID.

Unaccompanied minors

You should be aware that each airline has its own policy regarding unaccompanied minors, and may require prior notification before arranging for them to travel. It is therefore essential to consult your airline before travelling.

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 necessary medical treatment on the same terms as Spanish nationals. You will not be covered for medical repatriation, on-going medical treatment or treatment of a non-urgent nature. For more general information see EHIC and NHS - About the EHIC.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 140,000 adults aged 15 or over in Spain were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 0.5% 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.

H1 N1 - Swine Flu

There are confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus (Swine Flu) in Spain. You can check for updates on the number of cases and their location through the Spanish Ministry of Health website: http://www.msc.es/en/home.htm (in Spanish). 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/ has further details. Check the Swine Flu for further information. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.

Tel: 0800 1 513 513 (from UK only). If you think you have caught the H1N1 virus, you should stay indoors and contact your local authority/helpline:

Alicante - 900 100 355 (Spanish - translation service available)
Andorra - 180 211 22 (English)
Barcelona (Catalunya) - 902 111 444 (English)
Barcelona (Aragon) - 902 555 321 (Spanish)
Ibiza - 112 (English)
Las Palmas - 112 (English)
Madrid - 901 400 100 (Spanish)
Malaga - 902 505 060 (Spanish - translation service available)
Palma - 112 (English)
Tenerife - 112 (English)

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

There has been one reported case of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in Spain, discovered in Álava in July 2006. No human infections have been reported.

The risk to humans from Avian Influenza is believed to be very low. No human infections or deaths have been reported. But as a precaution you should avoid 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 advice and information.

General

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling especially full “dangerous sports” insurance cover. 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 overseas 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

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 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.

Contacting a British Consulate office in Spain

For telephone numbers and the location of British Consulates in Spain see: http://ukinspain.fco.gov.uk/en.

Opening hours, telephone numbers and addresses of all British consular posts in Spain can be found by clicking on “consular offices”. For urgent consular assistance outside office hours (e.g. arrest, death, rape, hospitalisation). see 'Contact Details' below.

Purchase of Property, Time-share Ownership and Holiday Clubs

If you intend to purchase a property in Spain you are advised to engage an independent local lawyer. A full list of English speaking lawyers can be found on the British Embassy's website - http://ukinspain.fco.gov.uk/en. British nationals purchasing property in Spain are recommended to deal only with established and reputable estate agents or with other contacts whom they know to be reliable and genuine, and to make all payments within bank premises and/or through banking channels. Make sure that the full purchase price of the property is reflected on the escritura (deeds) and do not pay 'black money' in cash to the seller, even if persuasive arguments about taxes are advanced: you could end up having to pay the capital gains tax that should have been paid by the person from whom you bought your new home.

In the Valencia Autonomous Community (the Provinces of Castellon, Valencia and Alicante) and, increasingly, in other parts of Spain your land tenure rights can be severely curtailed by local legislation. Should your ownership of property in these Provinces be threatened by local legislation you should engage the services of a lawyer immediately. Also, you should contact the NGO, Abusos Urbanisticos No for more information and details on how they may be able to help. Please note that the British Consular Services cannot help specific property cases.

Time-share ownership is well established in Spain with many known and respected companies, agents and resorts operating legally, fairly and successfully. However, there are equally many unscrupulous companies in operation, some of which claim to provide various incentives (including stock market investments and discounts on airfares and accommodation) when exchanging existing time-share ownership or taking out membership of holiday clubs. More often than not, such inducements do not materialise once a deal has been signed and sealed. If you are approached by agents operating such schemes, you should treat the approaches with the utmost caution.

Further information and advice is available from:
The Organisation for Time-share in Europe (OTE)
Time-share Consumers Association (TCA) and
European Consumer Centre (ECC)

Purchases of Tobacco products for export

Regulations on import of tobacco products into the UK vary from the amount allowed to be exported from Spain, particularly for cigarettes. You should check this carefully before you leave Spain. If you do not have the right documentation to export more than the normal limit, you may be fined and your consignment seized.

Outdoor Sports

If an accident occurs whilst mountaineering, canyoning, potholing or climbing, or if you become lost in the mountains or other areas requiring mountain rescue, call the Emergency Services on 112, or dial 062 for the Civil Guard.

For advice on safety and weather conditions contact:

Tel. 0207 486 8077
Fax. 0207 486 8034

Further information can be found on:

http://www.goski.com/weather/
http://www.avalanches.org

Slovenia travel advice

Travel Summary

• There have been cases of Swine Flu reported in Slovenia, but all are reported as being contracted outside of the country. 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. Guidance on Pandemic Flu is available 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.
  
  
• All foreign Nationals visiting Slovenia must register with the Police within three days of arrival. See the Local Laws section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• Around 91,000 British tourists visit Slovenia every year (Source: Slovene Nationality and Population Database). 8 British nationals required consular assistance in Slovenia in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (1 case); hospitalisations (2 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (2 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (18 cases). If you need to contact the emergency services in Slovenia 112.
  
  
• From 1 July 2008, Slovenia introduce a "Vignette" system for motorway travel, which is compulsory if you wish to use the motorways in Slovenia. See the Road Travel section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• 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 areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Sensible precautions should be taken when carrying money in busy tourist areas.

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

Slovenia Country Profile

Local Travel

Road Travel

Slovenia has a ‘Vignette’ system for motorway travel. Vignettes are available for weekly, monthly or yearly periods, and can be purchased at petrol stations and DARS (the Slovenian Motorway Company) offices in Slovenia as well as outlets in neighbouring countries near the Slovene border. The Vignette is compulsory for vehicles under 3.5 tonnes in weight. The police and DARS officials are monitoring motorway use, and are stopping motorists who do not have a Vignette. Failure to have or display a Vignette will lead to an on-the-spot fine of up to €800. For more information on the Vignette system and where to buy one, please visit http://www.cestnina.si/Dokumenti/Vignette_308.aspx.

If you are driving to Slovenia during the winter period, you should be aware that winter equipment is mandatory from 15 November until 15 March. This means that your car must be equipped with either winter tyres, or have snow chains and radial tyres with at least 4mm tread depth. You can be fined 125 Euros for not having this equipment, or 417 Euros if you cause a delay on the road for the same reason.

By law, you must have your headlights on at all times, while driving in Slovenia. You are also required to carry a reflective jacket, a warning triangle and a first aid kit in the vehicle.

If you intend to hire a car and drive it into Slovenia you must declare this to the car hire company first, as you must have adequate car insurance cover.

Heavy on-the-spot fines are in place for traffic offences and jaywalking. The police are empowered to impose on-the-spot fines for offences including speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol and for using mobile phones without properly installed wireless headsets (Bluetooth).

In 2007 there were 293 road deaths in Slovenia (source: DfT). This equates to 14.6 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 Slovenia. For more details about this see Airline Security

Remember to reconfirm your return flight if your airline advises it.

Local laws and customs

You should carry a copy of your passport at all times as a form of identification.

All foreign nationals visiting Slovenia must register with the Police within three days of arrival or risk paying a fine. If you are staying at a registered hotel or guest house, they will register you when processing your arrival. If you are staying in self-catering accommodation, you should check with your booking agent as to whether they will register your visit. If not, you will have to do so on arrival by registering your visit at the nearest police station. If you are staying with friends or family, you or your host will need to visit the nearest police station to register your presence in Slovenia.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

UK Nationals do not require a visa to travel to Slovenia.

Passport validity

You must hold a valid British passport to enter Slovenia. The Slovene authorities do not insist on a period of validity in a UK passport. As long as the passport is within the expiry date, you may enter the country.

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 Slovenian Embassy in London.

Health

You can gain access to medical treatment in Slovenia. 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 Slovenian 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 Slovenia, especially if you intend to visit forested areas during the summer months.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around less than 1,000 adults aged 15 or over in Slovenia 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%. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Slovenia 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.

A (H1N1) – Swine Flu

There have been cases of Swine Flu reported in Slovenia, but all are reported as being contracted outside of the country. 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. Guidance on Pandemic Flu is available on the UK Department of Health website at: www.dh.gov.uk.

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

The Slovene Government confirmed on 12 February 2006, that the H5N1 form of Avian Influenza had been found in a swan in north east Slovenia. Tests are being done on eight other wild birds found dead in the same region. On 6 June 2006, the Slovene authorities announced that these tests were negative.

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 that poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.

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

Natural disasters

Western Slovenia is on an earthquake fault line and is subject to occasional tremors.

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.

Accommodation

Ljubljana is a small capital city and an increasingly popular destination as its air services grow. We strongly advise that you arrange accommodation before travelling.

Skiing/Mountaineering Holidays

If you are planning a skiing or mountaineering holiday, we advise you to contact the Slovenian Tourist Board in the UK (Tel: 0870 225 5305) for advice on weather and safety conditions before travelling. You should be aware that off-piste skiing is highly dangerous. You should follow all safety instructions meticulously, given the danger of avalanches in some areas.

Passports

The British Embassy in Ljubljana does not issue passports and so, before setting off, you should ensure that your passport has sufficient validity and a plentiful supply of unused pages. From 31 March, the British Embassy will no longer process passport applications. Passport applications will need to be sent direct to the British Consulate-General in Dusseldorf. Please visit www.ukingermany.fco.gov.uk/en/passports/welcome for more information.

Money

ATMs are easily accessible and major credit cards/travellers' cheques are widely accepted. Banks and bureaux de change will change travellers' cheques, sterling and other main currencies. The Euro is the legal currency in Slovenia.

Slovakia travel advice

Travel Summary

• There are confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) - Swine Flu in Slovakia (source: The Slovak Ministry of Health). You can check for updates on the situation in Slovakia through the Office of Public Health of the Slovak Republic at www.uvzsr.sk, or by calling the Ministry of Health Helpline on (421) (2) 5937 3122 (Slovak only). The Slovak Ministry of Health has advised that unless the patient's situation is severe enough to require hospitalisation, they will be required to remain in home quarantine for a period of 7-10 days. Patients with flu symptoms are being told to get in touch with their GP by telephone. There is currently no exit/entry screening in place at airports or land borders, nor are there any plans to introduce this in the near future. 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 also monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. 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.
  
  
• There is an underlying threat from terrorism. A bomb explosion at a plastic window factory killed one Slovak national and injured five more on 25 August in Topolcany, about 100 kilometres east of Bratislava. No foreign nationals were involved. There is no suggestion of a link to international terrorism.
  
  
• You must carry your passport with you at all times for identification purposes. It is also advisable to carry a photocopy of your passport, even if you are travelling as part of a group.
  
  
• Before travelling to Slovakia you should ensure that your passport is in a presentable state. The Slovak authorities can refuse entry if your passport is worn or damaged, or looks as if it has been tampered with.
  
  
• Most visits to Slovakia are trouble-free. 13 British nationals required consular assistance in Sovakia in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (4 cases); hospitalisations (4 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (1 case). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (47 cases). If you need to contact the emergency services in Slovakia 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 an underlying threat from terrorism. A bomb explosion at a plastic window factory killed one Slovak national and injured five more on 25 August in Topolcany, about 100 kilometres east of Bratislava. No foreign nationals were involved. There is no suggestion of a link to international terrorism.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

In Bratislava especially there remains a risk of petty theft. Pickpockets operate around the main tourist areas, and foreigners are easily identified and targeted. You should take sensible precautions against bag snatching and mugging. Do not leave valuables unattended. When jackets are placed on the backs of restaurant chairs, wallets should be kept securely elsewhere. When putting bags down, place one foot through the arm straps to prevent theft.

There have been occurrences in Bratislava of visitors being given "spiked" drinks and waking several hours later to find all their valuables gone. Be wary of drinks offered by persons unknown to you. Some large city centre pubs employ heavy-handed bouncers, some of whom carry firearms, who control boisterous behaviour very aggressively. Be careful not to offend by showing disrespect to e.g. other national flags.

There have been cases of theft of valuables at the Zlaty Piesky camping area in Bratislava. You should exercise particular caution when camping there. You should also be careful at Bratislava airport and keep valuables and cash with you, rather than place it in checked baggage.

There have been instances of drivers of foreign-licensed cars being targeted by criminals. If you have to fix a puncture, or any damage to your tyres, you should ensure that your vehicle is locked before you sort out the problem. Since the start of 2008 there has been an increase in robberies from parked cars. Items stolen have not been on general view. We recommend that all valuables are removed from the car when parking, rather than just being placed out of sight.

Taxi drivers sometimes attempt to overcharge tourists, e.g. by adding unauthorised supplements or by not setting the meter at the start of a journey. Insist that you will pay only the fare shown on the meter.

More serious crime does happen in Slovakia but is not usually targeted at tourists or visitors and tends to be a result of disputes between warring criminal fractions.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Slovakia Country Profile.

Local Travel

Road Travel

Make sure that you have valid motor insurance for your car. Right-hand drive cars can not normally be registered in Slovakia, which makes it very difficult to obtain insurance for those who intend to settle or remain in Slovakia to work.

You can drive on a UK driving licence for up to six months.

Children under the age of 12 must not sit in the front seat of moving vehicles.

Although reasonably good, many main roads have only a single carriageway in each direction making overtaking difficult. Road markings are difficult to see in poor weather.

The standard of driving is not high and can be aggressive, with drivers often going too fast, pushing into dangerously small gaps, tailgating and overtaking with little regard for other road users. Drive defensively and allow yourself more "thinking time". Specifically, beware of oncoming cars overtaking on your side of the road (particularly on bends and hills). Older, low-powered cars and trucks travel very slowly; be careful not to overestimate their speed. In 2007 there were 627 road deaths in Slovakia (source: DfT). This equates to 11.6 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.

In winter, equip your car for severe driving conditions: use winter tyres, and if travelling outside Bratislava carry extra warm clothing, hot drinks in a thermos-flask, sacking (to help give tyres purchase in slippery conditions) and a shovel. Although winter tyres are not compulsory in Slovakia, where an accident occurs and one vehicle has normal tyres the official presumption is that the vehicle is at fault.

From 18 December 2008 it has become obligatory for vehicles to have their headlights switched on all year round, regardless of the weather and whether they are in a town or out in the country. Speed limits in towns have been reduced to 50kms per hour.

Please note that drivers with any trace of alcohol in their body will be arrested. There is no permitted level other than 0%. If you are involved in an accident while driving the Police will give you a breath test regardless of who is to blame.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Skiing and Hiking

If you ski or hike in the Slovak mountains and get into difficulties you should be aware that since if the Slovak Mountain Rescue Service (HZS) is called out to assist you, you will be required to meet their full costs. The costs could range from € 116 to €9,960 depending on the size of the operation. Any person ignoring/violating HZS commands or laws will be liable to a fine of up to €3,320Skiers and mountain visitors are recommended to ensure they have sufficient insurance to cover any rescue costs and to take heed of any instructions issued by HZS.

Air Travel

Revised EU-wide security measures apply in Slovakia. For more details about this see Airline Security

Local laws and customs

While in Slovakia, you will be subject to its laws and regulations. All those who violate Slovak laws, even unknowingly, may be arrested and fined or imprisoned. For example there is a law about adverse noise between 10:00pm - 6:00am. Unruly or rowdy behaviour could attract the attention of the police. Bratislava has become a popular destination for stag parties and tourists have been fined or imprisoned for causing a public nuisance.

You must carry your passport with you at all times as identification - keep it safe, e.g. in a zipped up pocket or secure bag, and keep the details separately in case you lose it. Remember to enter/revise the next of kin details in the back of your passport. For travel outside of Slovakia, even to other Schengen countries, British citizens resident in Slovakia, should note that the Residence Permit card issued in Slovakia (Trvaly Pobyt) is not considered acceptable proof of identity. Non-Slovak authorities have detained EU citizens travelling without a passport until friends at home have found the passport and taken it to the place where the person was being held; only then could the individual continue travelling.

Taking photographs of anything that could be perceived as a military establishment or somehow of security interest, may result in problems with the authorities.

Do not get involved with drugs in any way. The penalties for smuggling, possession and use of drugs are severe.

Since November 2007 it has been an offence in Bratislava Old Town to drink alcohol in the street. There may be exceptions for seasonal markets (such as the Christmas Market) and outside seating areas of restaurants and bars. But consuming alcohol (for example bought in a supermarket) in other public areas could result in your being fined €33.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

Visas are not required for British citizens to enter Slovakia.

British Overseas Territories citizens, British Overseas citizens, British nationals (Overseas), British subjects and British Protected persons should contact the nearest Slovak Embassy to determine if there is a requirement for a visa to be obtained. This also applies to Third Country Nationals who hold residence permits in the UK. Depending on the format of that residence permit, a visa for Slovakia may be required. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Slovak Republic has a website which will help to locate your nearest Slovak Embassy.

Passport validity

As a British passport holder there is no minimum length of remaining validity needed. Nevertheless it is recommended, wherever possible, that the passport is valid beyond the length of your planned stay in Slovakia.

Registering with the Slovak authorities

If you plan to stay in Slovakia on a long-term basis, i.e. to work or live, you should register with the Police within three days of arrival. You will need your passport, two photographs, a small fee of €3-€6 and proof of accommodation in the form of either your letter of ownership, if you own the property, or lease agreement accompanied by the letter of ownership from the owner of the property. You have an option to apply for a Slovak “green card”, which can be used as proof of your ID, while keeping your passport in a safe place..

Those wishing to apply for a Slovak Residence Permit can go to the Ministry of Interior of the Slovak Republic website for further information.

Health

There are confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) - Swine Flu in Slovakia (source: The Slovak Ministry of Health). You can check for updates on the situation in Slovakia through the Office of Public Health of the Slovak Republic at www.uvzsr.sk or by calling the Ministry of Health Helpline on (421) (2) 59373 122 (Slovak only). The Slovak Ministry of Health has advised that unless the patient's situation is severe enough to require hospitalisation, they will be required to remain in home quarantine for a period of 7-10 days. Patients with flu symptoms are being told to get in touch with their GP by telephone. There is currently no exit/entry screening in place at airports or land borders, nor are there any plans to introduce this in the near future. 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 also monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. 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.

Medical facilities in Slovakia are variable. The standard of doctors is generally very good. Medical equipment is constantly being improved. However, many hospitals are showing a lack of maintenance. Possibly the greatest problem with medical facilities in Slovakia is the language. Many receptionists and nurses do not speak English.

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 Slovakian 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 in Slovakia. You should seek advice if you are planning to visit forested areas in the summer months.

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 Slovakia 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%. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Slovakia 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 further reports of H5N1 infection since two dead wild birds were found in the Bratislava region in February 2006. There have also been no human infections or deaths reported.

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

You should read this advice in conjunction with 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 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.

Consular assistance

The Consular Section of the Embassy can provide assistance in an emergency such as the arrest, serious accident, illness or the death of a British national. The Consular Section can also assist you if your passport is lost or stolen and can help you arrange to transfer of funds. For some services a fee is charged. Please see contact details below. Please note that the Embassy is only able to issue Emergency Passports, which are good to travel back to the UK. Applications for full passports are now handled by the British Passport Processing Service in Northern Europe which is based at the British Consulate-General in Dusseldorf. More information on the passport issuing process can be found on their website, http://ukingermany.fco.gov.uk/en/passports/welcome. Applicants are advised to allow 10 working days for a new full passport

Before submitting an application for an Emergency Passport the loss of the full passport must be reported to a police station, and a police report obtained. The nearest police station to the Embassy can be found at:

Sturova 15
811 02 Bratislava
The police can provide a translator.

In a serious emergency out or normal hours you should continue to call the main Embassy telephone number (details below). You will then be given the telephone number of the FCO's Global Response Centre which will be able to offer immediate advice. This Centre cannot deal with visa or passport enquiries.

Students

For students studying in a non-Slovak college, please note that there is no entitlement to use student tickets on any of Slovakia’s municipal bus services even if you are carrying a student card. Only students holding Slovak student cards qualify for the cut-price tickets. Fines of €46are levied if stopped. Students are advised to purchase full price tickets.

Physically handicapped travellers

Slovakia, in general, does not cater for those that are physically handicapped. It is normal for cars to park on pavements. Dropped kerbs are seen as helping drivers to mount the kerb without damaging the car tyres and suspension. Public transport invariably requires large steps to be climbed. Buses and trams accelerate from stops at great speed and can catch visitors by surprise. Some effort is now being taken to make buildings more accessible, but the vast majority of buildings only have steps rather than ramps.

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 Slovakia), without paying UK duty. For Slovakia the limit is 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

On 1 January 2009 Slovakia joined the Eurozone. The Euro (€) has replaced the Slovak Crown (SKK) as Slovakia’s national currency. Commercial banks will continue to exchange, free of charge, Crown bank notes until 31 December 2009 Banks will no longer exchange coins. 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 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.

Make sure you bring enough money and keep it safe. Travellers' cheques are the safest way to carry money but make sure that you buy them from an organisation with agents in Slovakia. Change cash and travellers' cheques at proper banks or bureaux de change: kiosks, although legal, offer poorer exchange rates and there is a risk of being robbed by thieves loitering nearby. Neither Scottish nor Northern Irish bank notes can be exchanged in Slovakia.

ATM machines, which accept UK bank or credit cards (Cirrus, Maestro or Visa), are common. Shops - particularly in the main tourist areas - increasingly accept credit cards, but are sometimes reluctant to accept cards issued by foreign banks. If you intend to pay for something by card do check first that that the shop will accept your card and that it can be read (there are sometimes problems with "Maestro"). We also recommend that you check your statements carefully for transactions you did not make.

Make sure you know whom to contact to cancel stolen cards and/or how to obtain replacement travellers' cheques. If your money is lost or stolen you can arrange for friends or relatives in the UK to transfer money through Western Union to the Tatrabanka. Call Western Union in the UK 0800 833 833 for information.

Serbia travel advice

Travel Summary

• Visitors should be aware that there have been a small number of unprovoked attacks (one fatal) against foreign citizens in Belgrade over the past two weeks, possibly connected to extremist, far right groups. The Embassy will continue to monitor the situation closely and visitors are advised to monitor this advice regularly in case there are further developments.
  
  
• There are confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) -Swine Flu in Serbia. 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 also check media reports for further developments in Serbia. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on this website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu is available on the UK Department of Health website at http://www.dh.gov.uk.
  
  
• On 17 February 2008 the Government of Kosovo declared independence from Serbia. Serbia has rejected Kosovo's declaration of independence as illegal, but the UK Government, along with the majority of other EU Member States, has granted recognition.
  
  
• The overall security situation for travellers in Belgrade and throughout Serbia remains calm. Many Serbs feel strongly about Kosovo, and you should be wary about entering into political discussions with people you do not know well. Additionally, you are advised to avoid any political rallies or protests you may encounter, although these are not particularly widespread.
  
  
• Residual landmines and other unexploded ordnance remain in Serbia. You should take extra care, particularly when travelling in the mountainous areas brodering Kosovo. Do not stray from roads and paved areas without an experienced guide. See the Local Travle section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• The Serbian authorities will not allow you to travel into Serbia from Kosovo unless you began your journey in Serbia and are returning there directly. Following the declaration of independence by Kosovo, cr ossing of the land border between Serbia and Kosovo may be problematic or subject to demonstrations and protests. See the Entry Requirements 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.
  
  
• Most visits to Serbia are trouble-free. 9 British nationals required consular assistance in Serbia in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (1 case); hospitalisations (2 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (4 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (27 cases).
  
  
• 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 risk from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

As in other parts of Europe, you should be aware of the incidence of street crime, particularly in larger cities. Be extra vigilant for pick pocketing in public places such as airports and on public transportation. As a foreigner, you may be a target for criminals who may assume you are carrying large amounts of cash. Four wheel drive and luxury vehicles are also a popular target. Isolated incidents of armed violence in major cities are a problem. These are usually linked to organised crime and are not directed against foreigners, including British nationals. All incidents of crime should be reported to the local police from whom you should obtain a report.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Serbia Country Profile

The situation in Serbia is generally stable.

The issue of Kosovo remains a potential cause for unrest. The country witnessed large public demonstrations and several violent incidents in the wake of the declaration of independence by Kosovo on 17 February 2008.

You should be aware that the issue of Kosovo's independence is a very emotive one for many Serbs and will remain so for the foreseeable future. You should avoid demonstrations and try not to be drawn into discussion about Kosovo with people you do not know well.

In Southern Serbia the security situation has much improved as a result of the political process involving the Serbian Authorities and the local Albanian minority. But events in Kosovo continue to have an impact in South Serbia and you should continue to check local developments before and during your journey.

For more information on the Political Situation in Serbia please see the FCO Country Profile for Serbia.

Local Travel

There is still some danger from residual mines and other unexploded ordnance left over from the 1999 conflict in Kosovo and in Serbia. The majority of affected areas are in the mountainous regions to the north and east of Kosovo. Special care should be taken in all these areas and you should keep to marked roads. Most of the remaining dangerous zones are in high mountainous regions covered with dense vegetation. If you see anything suspicious, DO NOT TOUCH IT, and report it immediately to the police.

Road Travel

You must have a valid international driver’s licence to drive in Serbia. If you are taking your car, you must have vehicle registration/ownership documents and a locally valid insurance policy. European green card vehicle insurance is now valid in Serbia. If you do not have a green card valid for Serbia - denoted by SRB - you will be charged a border insurance fee, the price of which depends on your vehicle. You are advised to confirm that your insurance company recognises that your policy covers Serbia. You are required by law to wear a seatbelt. You are advised to drive defensively and to avoid confrontation with other drivers.

You should be aware that many Serbian car hire firms will not allow their vehicles to be driven in Kosovo, Albania or Bulgaria due to concerns about the security situation. There have been some incidents where Serbian registered cars have been targeted in more isolated areas of Kosovo.

The general standard of roads is fair to poor with conditions worsening in rural areas, especially in and after bad weather. One particularly notorious road is the Ibarska Magistrala (linking Belgrade, via Čačak and Užice, to Montenegro). Bad conditions and overcrowding can make it dangerous.

Roadworks on the main highways across Serbia (from the Croatian and Hungarian border to Bulgaria and Macedonia) may cause delays.

There are several toll booths along motorways. Toll charges vary from 20 - 200 Euros depending on the size of your vehicle. Foreign registered vehicles are charged a higher toll than those registered locally. You are advised to have sufficient cash (Dinars preferred, although Euros are accepted) to pay these toll charges.

You should also be aware that some parts of the motorway between Novi Sad and Belgrade have two-lanes with a hard shoulder on only one side. Some drivers use the ‘middle’ lane to overtake, thus forcing the ongoing traffic onto the hard shoulder. We advise you to take additional care when driving on these stretches.

Public transport is outdated and overcrowded although there have been improvements in the major cities. When using taxis, it is possible to negotiate fares where a meter is not in use. You should only use taxis that are officially registered (look out for a municipal registratioin number in addition to the cab number). For further information on using public transport and general driving conditions visit the website of the Belgrade Tourism Organisation

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Rail Travel

Trains can be slow, particularly in winter when there are often long delays. On overnight trains, sleeping berths can be locked. Each carriage has an attendant on watch for the journey.

Air Travel

Belgrade airport has a single modern terminal handling all international arrivals and departures. For more information on what can be taken on board see Airline Security.

Local laws and customs

Drugs laws are similar to those in the UK. Possession or trafficking of drugs will be met with strict penalties and usually a lengthy prison sentence.

There are no laws against homosexual activity and same-sex couples are tolerated, but the nature of society makes public displays of affection inadvisable.

Please note that taking photographs of military and police installations and/or personnel or vehicles anywhere in Serbia may lead to difficulties with the authorities.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

Visit Visas are not required for entry to Serbia for British passport holders for stays of up to 90 days. For further information on entry and exit requirements and exactly what will be required at immigration, please contact the Serbian Embassy in London.

On entering Serbia, make sure you get an entry stamp in your passport from the border police. Temporary residents (in the country for more than 90 days) should have exit-entry visas as well as residence stamps in their passports. If you try to leave Serbia without an entry stamp or exit-entry visa you may face charges of illegal immigration, a heavy fine and possible imprisonment.

You should only enter Serbia through recognised border crossings. The Serbian government does not recognise entry points from Kosovo or those on Kosovo's external borders with Albania, Macedonia or Montenegro. You should not attempt to enter Serbia from Kosovo, unless you initially travelled into Kosovo via Serbia. For more information please visit the website of the Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

UNMIK exit/entry stamps were replaced by Republic of Kosovo stamps on 27 June 2008. These stamps are not recognised by the Serbian government and will be cancelled on entry into Serbia and replaced with a Serbian border stamp. This official decision was taken by the Serbian government on 17 July 2008.

Passport validity

Before you travel, you should ensure that your passport is undamaged and valid for at least the duration of your stay in Serbia (but preferably for six months beyond your length of stay). The British Embassy in Belgrade only issues emergency passports. For information on standard passports please visit British Embassy website.

Registration

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 Serbia, 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 online with, or make your presence known to, the British Embassy in Belgrade and/or with the Honorary Consul in Nis as appropriate. Contact details are below.

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 children to leave.

Customs declarations

You will be required to declare money (including travellers’ cheques) in excess of €10,000 (or equivalent in other currencies) that you bring into Serbia. Customs Officers hold declaration forms and will require a receipt of purchase for Dinars bought from a foreign bank. On departure, you will need to return a certified copy of this declaration to customs so that money (up to the amount brought in but not exceeding €10,000 in value) can be taken out again. If you fail to comply with these rules, your money may be confiscated.

In order to avoid customs charges, you will be required to declare items of value (eg. jewellery, photographic and computing equipment) that you are temporarily importing into Serbia. These items should be intended for your own personal use and you must take them with you on leaving the country. For more information on declaration of money and the importation of goods please visit the Serbian Ministry for Foreign Affairs.

Health

There is a reciprocal healthcare agreement for British nationals, which entitles you to free treatment in Serbia for genuine emergencies. However, the health system in all parts of Serbia is suffering from widespread shortage of medicines and other essentials. Payment in cash is normally required for treatment and you are advised to take out comprehensive travel insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Rabies is common in Serbia, largely in parks and the outskirts of major cities, including in areas that have been rabies free for decades.

On 2 November 2007 Serbia's Health Ministry declared an outbreak of hepatitis A (food and waterborne hepatitis) in South Serbia. You should take necessary food and water hygiene precautions including boiling water before drinking, or using bottled water.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 6,400 adults aged 15 or over in Serbia 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 Serbia 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 general medical information in-country, visit the website of the Belgrade Tourism Organisation.

For more general health information see Travel Health

A (H1N1) (Swine Flu)

There are confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) -Swine Flu in Serbia. 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 also check media reports for further developments in Serbia. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on this website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu is available on the UK Department of Health website at http://www.dh.gov.uk.

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

The Serbian Ministry of Agriculture confirmed on 9 March 2006 that the H5N1 form of avian influenza (bird flu) was found in a dead swan in the Veliki Backi canal near Sombor in north eastern Serbia. The Serbian authorities have declared a 10-kilometre infected zone and took measures to prevent any spread, including isolating domestic poultry and disinfecting access roads and paths. 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 advice and information.

Natural disasters

During especially hot and dry periods there is a danger of forest fires. Please take care when visiting or driving through woodland areas; ensure that cigarette ends are properly extinguished, and do not light barbecues.

Serbia lies in a seismically active zone, and earth tremors are common. Serious earthquakes are less frequent but do occur.

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

When you arrive in Serbia you are advised to register with, or make your presence known to the British Embassy in Belgrade. You may register 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 an emergency. More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

Passport

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 Belgrade, or Honorary Consular Agent in Nis, as appropriate. The Honorary Consular Agent in Nis cannot issue new passports but can assist with the arrangements to apply for a new passport via Belgrade.

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

If you lose your passport, exit visas are required in your replacement travel documents as your original entry stamp will have been lost with your passport. It is sometimes possible to obtain these from the local Police, but you can also receive one at the Foreigners’ Police Department of the Serbian Interior Ministry in Belgrade.

If your passport is lost or stolen the British Embassy in Belgrade can issue you an Emergency Passport or a Temporary 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 Serbia is the Dinar. Credit cards and travellers’ cheques are now accepted in many of the larger hotels and shops, and ATMs increasingly also accept international bank cards. There are many money exchange machines in Belgrade (including at Belgrade Airport) that accept Sterling, US Dollars and Euros and will give back Dinars.

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

Consular Services

A full consular service is available in Belgrade at the British Embassy. Emergency consular services (passport and notarial services are not provided) are also available from the Honorary Consular Agent in Nis.

Contact Details

British Embassy Belgrade

Address:
British Embassy
Resavska 46
11000 Belgrade

Website: http://ukinserbia.fco.gov.uk

Telephone:
(381) (11) 2645 055
(381) (11) 3615 660
(381) (11) 3060 900

Facsimile:
(381) (11) 2659 651
(381) (11) 3061 089 Chancery
(381) (11) 3061 072 Consular/Visa
(381) (11) 3061 059 Commercial
(381) (11) 3061 077 Information

Email:
mailto:belgrade.man@fco.gov.uk General Enquiries
mailto:belgrade.com@fco.gov.uk Commercial Enquiries
mailto:belgrade.ppd@fco.gov.uk Information Enquiries
mailto:belgrade.visa@fco.gov.uk Visa Enquiries
mailto:belgrade.consular@fco.gov.uk Consular Enquiries

Office Hours:
GMT:
Mon-Thurs: 0700-1530
Fri: 0700-1200

strong>Local Time: Mon-Thurs: 0800-1630
Fri: 0800-1300

Honorary Consular Agent in Nis

Telephone:
(381) 18 221 469
(381) 63 408 224

Russian Federation travel advice

Travel Summary

• We advise against all travel to Chechnya, Ingushetia and Dagestan because of the security situation in the North Caucasus. This also includes the regions of Budyonnovsky, Levokumsky, Neftekumsky, Stepnovsky and Kurskoy in east and south Stavropol Krai, which border Dagestan and Chechnya. See the Terrorism and Local Travel sections of this advice for more details.
  
  
• We advise against all but essential travel to North Ossetia, Karachai-Cherkessia and Kabardino-Balkaria (including the Elbrus area) as terrorism and kidnapping in these regions remain a serious problem. See the Terrorism and Local Travel sections of this advice for more details.
  
  
• There is a general threat from terrorism. Attacks cannot be ruled out and could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. Attacks have occurred most frequently in Moscow and in the North Caucasus.
  
  
• There have been confirmed cases of the (A) H1N1 virus (Swine Flu) in Russia. There are no restrictions on travel, although airports in Moscow have stepped up monitoring of passengers and crew arriving from countries with confirmed cases of A (H1N1). Anyone displaying flu-like symptoms may be subject to further examination and quarantine. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase 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 be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.
  
  
• Around 274,000 British nationals visited Russia in 2008 (Source: Russian Federal Agency for Tourism). Most visits are trouble-free. 57 British nationals required consular assistance in Russia in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (8 cases); hospitalisations (28 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (7 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (78 cases). You should be aware of the risks of crime. See the Crime section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• There has been an increase in racially motivated attacks: visitors of Asian or Afro-Caribbean descent should take extra care. See the Crime (Racially Motivated Attacks) 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 may wish to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for further details.

Safety and security

Terrorism / Security

There is a general threat from terrorism. Attacks cannot be ruled out and could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

In previous years particular threats have come from suicide attacks in public places in Moscow, including the Metro system, and hostage taking. The risk of terrorism in Moscow could rise quickly in relation to any escalation of violence in the North Caucasus.

You should remain vigilant in all public places, including tourist sites and crowded places, particularly where access is not controlled e.g. open-air events, markets, etc.

We advise against all travel to Chechnya, Ingushetia and Dagestan because of the security situation in the North Cacasus. This also includes the regions of Budyonnovsky, Levokumsky, Neftekumsky, Stepnovsky and Kurskoy in east and south Stavropol Krai, which border Chechnya and Dagestan. We also advise against all but essential travel to North Ossetia, Karachai-Cherkessia and Kabardino-Balkaria (including the Elbrus area), since terrorism and kidnapping in these regions remain a serious problem. You should seek security advice before travelling.

As well as an ongoing risk of insurgent attacks across the region, terrorist attacks have occurred throughout the North Caucasus, including incidents in Beslan and Vladikavkaz in North Ossetia, Nalchik, the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, Nazran in Ingushetia, and Makhachkala, the capital of Dagestan. Further violence in the North Caucasus region is likely.

On 17 August a bomb exploded outside a police station in Nazran, the capital of Ingushetia. At least 19 people were killed and over 60 people were injured by the device. The Russian authorities believe this was a suicide bomb.

On 6 November 2008 there was an explosion on a minibus, in the North Ossetian capital of Vladikavkaz, in the North Caucasus region.The explosion happened in a crowded area next to the city's central market, and 12 passengers were killed. The Russian authorities believe that this was a terrorist attack.

There is a long history of kidnapping in the region and Westerners are particularly vulnerable. You should be aware that the long-standing policy of the British Government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British Government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage taking.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

As in most countries, cities in Russia have their fair share of petty crime. You should be alert at all times to the possibility of mugging, pickpocketing and theft from vehicles or hotel rooms. Be particularly alert to groups of women and children who beg, and pickpockets around the main railway concourses.

Take care when drinking with or meeting casual or new acquaintances in bars, restaurants or night-clubs, as there have been incidents of robbery and violence involving foreigners, amongst them British nationals. Pay particular attention when drinking alcohol. Drink spiking followed by robbery is prevalent and can also lead to violence and/or abuse. Unconscious victims are often left outside, which can be life threatening in the winter months. Beware of drinks which have not been poured in your sight, do not leave your drink unattended and do not accept drink given to you by a stranger or someone you have just met.

In St Petersburg there have been reports of street crime where tourists have been specifically targeted. These crimes are carried out by well-organised gangs. You should be especially aware of pickpockets in the main tourist areas. Incidents of bogus police officers harassing and robbing tourists have also been reported. If you are stopped always insist on seeing ID. Avoid openly carrying expensive items, or anything that might easily identify you as a tourist.

Incidents of armed violence in major cities are usually linked to criminal/business activities and are not usually directed against foreign visitors. There have also been bomb attacks linked to criminal disputes.

Racially Motivated Attacks

Racially motivated attacks do occur in Russia. Racially motivated attacks tend to increase around 20 April, the anniversary of Adolf Hitler’s birthday. Although the great majority of visitors experience no difficulties, there has been a substantial increase in the number of attacks on foreign nationals, especially in large urban areas. We recommend that travellers of Asian or Afro-Caribbean descent take extra care.

Scams

There are a number of services offering addresses and contact information for Russian women who are looking to become romantically involved with Western Europeans. A number of prospective suitors have entered into correspondence, only later to be defrauded. If this occurs, there is little that the British Government can do to assist in the recovery of any capital outlay. We advise that you exercise the appropriate level of caution if entering into correspondence.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Russia Country Profile.

Local Travel

We advise against all travel to Chechnya, Ingushetia and Dagestan. This also includes the regions of Budyonnovsky, Levokumsky, Neftekumsky, Stepnovsky and Kurskoy in east and south Stavropol Krai, which border Chechnya and Dagestan. We also advise against all but essential travel to North Ossetia, Karachai-Cherkessia and Kabardino-Balkaria (including the Elbrus area) (see Terrorism above).

You should be aware that short-term travel restrictions are periodically applied in parts of the North Caucasus region in relation to ongoing security operations. These are usually publicised, if at all, at very short notice.

The North Caucasus remains an unstable and potentially dangerous region. The Russian authorities take a particularly strict attitude towards security and compliance with official regulations. If you intend to travel to the North Caucasus region, it is vital that you have the correct documentation including an appropriate visa for the purpose of your visit, and that you comply fully with registration requirements.

If you travel to these parts of Russia despite this advice, you are taking a serious risk, and must accept that the ability of the FCO and the British Embassy in Moscow to help in the case of an emergency is severely limited.

Cross-border traffic with Georgia and Azerbaijan is also subject to restrictions.

Road Travel

You may drive a car in Russia for a limited period if you hold an international driving licence. For further information on driving restrictions, check with an international driving organisation.

Road conditions can often be poor, especially outside the major cities.

You should comply with all local speed limits. The standard speed limit for built-up areas is 60 kph (37 mph), outside built-up areas 90 kph (55 mph) and 100 kph (62 mph) on motorways (Brest-Moscow). Visiting motorists who have held a driving licence for less than two years must not exceed 70 kph (43 mph). It is common practice for traffic police to stop motorists for spot checks. You should be aware that there is a zero tolerance policy towards drinking and driving.

If travelling by taxi, use officially marked taxis and do not share them with strangers. We advise against flagging down unofficial taxis.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Rail Travel

If you are travelling by overnight train and have the use of a sleeping compartment, store valuables in the container under the bed/seat.

Do not leave your sleeping compartment unoccupied as some compartments only have a simple lock on the sliding door. On some trains there may be an additional security device, which can be attached to the fitted handle/lock unit. There may also be a steel switch at head-height on the door panel which, when pulled down, prevents the closed door from being slid open.

When travelling by train do not agree to look after the luggage of a fellow traveller or allow it to be stored in your compartment.

Air Travel

Evidence suggests that some non western aircraft types used mainly on domestic routes by smaller airlines in Russia do not always comply with international safety standards. On 14 September 2008 a Boeng-737 Aeroflot Nord flight from Moscow crashed as it came in to land at Perm with the loss of 88 lives. Russian federal investigators believe an engine fault probably caused the crash but continue to investigate.

There have also been air crashes in Samara in March 2007 and Irkutsk in July 2006.

You should be aware that security on Russian internal flights is not as high as that for international flights.

Local laws and customs

You should not become involved with drugs. Penalties are severe and the courts impose long sentences for those found in possession of even small quantities of drugs, regardless of whether they are "hard" or "soft"

It is a legal requirement that you carry your passport at all times in the Russian Federation. A copy will not be sufficient. If you are asked for ID and cannot produce your passport, you will be fined. It is standard practice for Russian immigration services to retain copies of visiting cruise passengers passports for immigration purposes. Information from the photocopied documents is entered onto the Russian Immigration Service computer system at a later date; photocopies are destroyed after 6-12 months.

Homosexuality is legal in Russia and there is a reasonably tolerant attitude to homosexuality in major urban areas. There is still, a degree of intolerance amongst some sections of the population, and you should be careful about open displays of affection in public.

The photographing of any military installation, establishment or site of strategic importance is prohibited; this includes airports. 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

Visas are required to enter Russia. During periods of high demand, for example during the summer holidays, you should apply for your visa well in advance. If you live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland you should apply to Russian Federation's visa processing centre VF Services, 15-27 Gee Street, London, EC1V 3RD.el: 020 7499 1029; fax: 020 7229 3215; website:www.rusemblon.org. If you live in Scotland, you should apply to the Russian Consulate General in Edinburgh.

VF Services can normally process visas in five working days. The forms must be completed online, and can either be submitted by post or in person. . If you want to get a visa more quickly it is possible to pay extra for a next-day service. You must have an exit visa to leave Russia. Before you travel to Russia ensure that you are aware of the terms and conditions attached to your visa, for both entry and exit, and check that the dates and details which have been entered on your visa are correct. Presenting documentation which contains incorrect information to immigration officials can lead to severe inconvenience and in some cases could result in refusal of entry.

For stays of more than three days

You must register your stay within three working days of arrival in Russia with the local branch of the Federal Migration Service. Most major hotels will do this automatically. If you are staying in private accommodation the owner of the property must do this for you. You need not register a visa if your visit is for less than three days.

Passport validity

If your passport has less than six months to run, you may be refused entry to Russia. You are advised to get a replacement passport before travelling.

Migration Cards

All foreign nationals entering Russia must fill in a migration card. The card is in two identical parts. One part will be retained by the Immigration Officer on arrival. You should keep the other part with your passport and show it, along with your passport, to the police, if they stop you for an identity check during your stay. You should hand in the second part to the Immigration Officer on your departure from Russia. You must complete a new migration card each time you enter Russia, even if you have a multiple entry visa. If you lose the second part of the card you will be fined, and your departure from the country could be delayed.

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 the Russian Federation in London.

Parents should note that children born overseas and added to their Russian passports by Russian Embassies may now have to obtain their own passport to exit Russia. There have been instances where a parent has renewed their own passport but the authorities have refused to add the child to it until the child's claim to Russian citizenship is properly substantiated. Parents should check the Russian Nationality Act and contact their nearest Russian Embassy or Consulate to ensure that their child has a claim to Russian citizenship, and that they have the necessary paperwork to prove this before travelling to Russia to renew passports.

Transit through Belarus

If you intend to travel by train on popular routes such as Warsaw-Moscow or St Petersburg-Kiev you will need to obtain a transit visa for Belarus before travelling.

Dual Nationality

Under international law, the British Embassy or Consulates cannot formally intervene with the Russian authorities on behalf of dual Russian/British citizens who encounter difficulties whilst in Russia.

If you come to Russia to renew your Russian international passport, you should be aware that it may take up to four months for a new passport to be issued. You will have to remain in Russia throughout this period. If this happens, the British Embassy or Consulates cannot obtain an exit visa for your British passport.

Customs

You may import into the country up to 10,000 US dollars (or equivalent) without declaring it. You may export from the country up to 3,000 US dollars without declaring it. If you export from the country currency or travellers cheques worth between 3,000 and 10,000 US dollars, it must be declared on departure. There is a limit of the equivalent of 10,000 dollars on the amount of roubles and foreign currency that can be taken out of or brought into Russia.

If you import into the country over 10,000 US dollars or certain categories of goods, such as more costly electrical items, jewellery or antiques and valuable musical instruments, you must complete a customs declaration form (available at all ports of entry) on arrival.

If you wish to import certain sophisticated electronic items (e.g. Global Positioning System instruments), you must get an operating licence from the Russian authorities before you travel. If you are unsure whether you should declare an item or need an operating licence you should check with the Embassy of the Russian Federation before your departure.

If you complete a declaration form you must ensure that it is stamped by a Customs official at your port of entry or it will not be valid. If you fail to complete a declaration form on arrival or to get it validated by Customs officials your foreign currency and non-declared items may be confiscated when you leave Russia and you may be fined.

There are also strict regulations governing the export from Russia of antiques, icons, medals, artwork and other items of historical significance. This includes modern art and even posters if they are particularly rare or valuable. If you wish to export such material from Russia, you must receive approval from the Ministry of Culture. This may be requested at the point of departure. Infringements of these regulations are treated seriously and may result in imprisonment.

See www.customs.ru for more information.

Health

There have been confirmed cases of A (H1N1) (Swine Flu) in Russia relating to travellers who have recently returned from Russia. There are no restrictions on travel, although airports in Moscow have stepped up monitoring of passengers and crew arriving from countries with confirmed cases of A (H1N1). Anyone displaying flu-like symptoms may be subject to further examination and quarantine. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase 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 be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.

A Reciprocal Health Care Agreement operates between the UK and Russia. This entitles British nationals to free treatment in a Russian hospital. However, any treatment you receive is likely to be limited.

Food poisoning, TB, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis occur in Russia. Tick-borne encephalitis occurs in rural and wooded areas in the summer months. Tap water is not drinkable anywhere in Russia. Caution should be exercised and local advice sought. Bottled mineral water is widely available.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 940,000 adults aged 15 or over in Russia were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 1.1% 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 Russia 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 December 2007 an outbreak of H5N1 avian influenza in chickens on a farm in Rostovskaya province was reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health. In mid-February 2007 the Russian authorities confirmed a number of outbreaks of the H5N1 strain of avian influenza in the area around Moscow. The virus has currently only been found in birds on smallholdings, and no cases have been reported on commercial poultry farms. The Russian authorities have taken action to control the outbreak, and have placed several areas under quarantine. At present we have no evidence that the outbreaks pose a risk to humans.

In 2005 there were reports of outbreaks of avian influenza in a number of other regions in Russia, including Tula, Tambov, Kurgan, Chelyabinsk, Novosibirsk and Krasnodar. 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 advice and information.

Natural disasters

There are occasional occurrences of flooding in Russia, mainly inSiberia, and also earthquakes in the North Caucasus and in the FarEastern region.

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 any activities you may wish to undertake. As well as full insurance cover for medical treatment and accidents, we recommend that you obtain cover for unexpected losses such as cancelled flights, stolen cash, cards, passport or luggage. For more general information see Travel Insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas 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

Russian currency (roubles) is not widely available in the UK, although the Post Office can order it in (this takes up to three days). If you wish to purchase roubles in Russia, we advise that you take US dollars or Euros to change. All dollar or euro notes should be in good condition. You should only change money at banks, hotels and recognised exchange kiosks. It is an offence to change money from street traders. It is illegal to pay directly with dollars or Euros.

Most hotels, restaurants and larger shops accept credit cards, but smaller shops do not. ATMs exist in most major cities. Travellers cheques are not widely accepted.