Ascension Island (British Overseas Territory) travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary (Swine Flu) and the Health section. The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• Ascension Island is a United Kingdom Overseas Territory. There is no formal British diplomatic or consular representation in Ascension Island and the local authorities deal with all requests for consular assistance. (See the General section of this advice for more details.)
  
  
• The only means of air transport to Ascension Island from the UK is with the RAF flying out of RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire. Sea travel to Ascension from the UK can be arranged on the twice-yearly sailing of the RMS St Helena or from Cape Town via St Helena. Visitors must be in possession of a valid Entry Permit before travelling to Ascension. These can be obtained from the Ascension Island Government, see the Entry Requirements (Visas) section of this advice.
  
  
• Most visits to Ascension Island are trouble-free.
  
  
• 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.
  
  
• A good standard of medical care is available on Ascension Island but it is not free to visitors. Costs can be high and you should ensure that your insurance, which is mandatory for all visitors covers treatment costs, as well as medical evacuation if this becomes necessary. See the Health and General (Insurance) sections of this advice.
  
  
• We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.
  
  

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is 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

The level of crime on Ascension Island is very low. Crimes or violence against residents or visitors are virtually unknown.

For more general information see victims of crime abroad.

Political situation

Ascension Island Country Profile

Local travel

There is no public transport on the Island, but bus tours with a driver can be arranged. A small number of hire cars are available and the local hotel is usually able to offer transport to and from the airfield on flight days for a reasonable fee. There is a limited taxi service but this has to be pre-booked. The speed limit 20 mph in Georgetown and Two Boats Village, 30 mph when passing the US Base and 40 mph elsewhere. There is only one petrol/diesel station on the island, beside “One Boat” settlement. You should also be aware that wild sheep and donkeys can congregate on the roads, especially during wet weather.

Local laws and customs

You should be aware that drink/drive laws are strictly enforced. There is a £100 fine for dropping litter.

For more general information for different types of travellers see your trip.

Entry requirements

Visas

Permission to visit Ascension Island must be obtained at least 28 days in advance from the Administrator, except in real cases of urgency. Entry Permit Applications can be downloaded from the Ascension Island Government website or requested by e-mail to: enquiries@ascension.gov.ac. Completed forms should be returned either by e-mail or by fax to +247 6152

There is an entry permit fee of £11.00 per person (free for children under 12 years). You must have comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover the cost of any treatment and medical evacuation should it be necessary. You must also be able to produce on request evidence of a return air ticket (or other evidence of pre-paid onward travel), pre-booked accommodation and sufficient funds to cover your stay on the island.

Visitors are prohibited from taking employment, paid or unpaid, without first obtaining permission to do so from the Administrator.

Passport validity

On arrival in Ascension Island you must have a passport valid for a minimum of six months.

Health

There is a small hospital in Ascension that is available to deal with day-to-day complaints but sophisticated treatment is not available on the Island. The hospital charges visitors for both outpatient and in-patient treatment. If you need regular supplies of prescription drugs, you should ensure that you bring adequate supplies with you. A UK-qualified dentist is available on the island though as with medical treatment charges are levied.

Mosquitoes do not carry malaria but can nevertheless be a nuisance.

If you intend to participate in diving sports, please note that there is no decompression facility on Ascension, nor are there qualified rescue divers. Visiting divers are strongly recommended to dive with an experienced diver; there is a small diving club on island.

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 Ascension 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 National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland’s Fit for Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see travel health.

RAF Brize Norton - Testing for Swine Flu

In order to protect MOD operational capability, it has become mandatory for all passengers arriving at RAF Brize Norton Passenger Terminal for check-in to automatically have their temperature tested as a preventative measure for Swine flu, this includes all civilian passengers travelling southbound to Ascension Island and the Falkland Islands. Although this testing is quick and easy, please be aware that it will inevitably cause a slight disruption and delay to the check-in process. If your temperature is found to be of a high enough degree to cause concern you will be given 30 minutes 'cool-down' to allow for re-testing and temperature verification. This could cause some passengers to miss their flight check-in if they arrive too close to the 'Latest Arrival Time' to allow for the completion of this procedure. Therefore, it is recommended that all passengers programme extra time into their travel plans to allow for any possible false negative tests and cool down period.

If any passenger fails the second temperature test after 30 minutes, they will be refused boarding and unable to travel again for a further seven days. Consequently, it is suggested that all passengers keep their transport available until after the testing is completed and civilian passengers are advised to ensure they take out adequate travel insurance to cover such an eventuality.

MOD has advised that they will keep the screening programme under constant review by balancing medical and operational advice accordingly. Anyone who is due to depart from RAF Brize Norton should direct any questions to the Passenger Flight Information Line on 01993 896050.

General

Insurance

We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling and is a requirement for the granting of an Entry Permit. 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.

Consular assistance

Ascension Island is a United Kingdom Overseas Territory and is part of a legal entity with the islands of St Helena and Tristan da Cunha. The Governor of the island groups resides at Jamestown on St Helena. The Ascension Island Police Force handles all consular protection services. There is no facility for the issuing of replacement UK passports, or UK entry visas, on Ascension Island.

Getting to Ascension Island

Travel to Ascension Island is via RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, United Kingdom. The RAF operates a limited fare paying service twice weekly from RAF Brize Norton to Ascension Island, returning northbound at similar intervals. This service can be subject to delays due to hazardous weather conditions, especially during the Southern Hemisphere winter. The flight times to Ascension from the UK is about nine hours. Information on the availability of tickets can be found on the Ascension Island Flights website.

The RMS St Helena operates a twice yearly passenger service from the UK to Ascension and a regular service from St Helena. Information on sailings can be found on the RMS St Helena website: www.rms-st-helena.com

Money

Credit cards are accepted at the local hotel by Cable & Wireless and the NAAFI shop on Travellers Hill, but otherwise are not in general use. There is one bank - the Bank of St Helena - but no cash machines (ATMs). Travellers' cheques are accepted. While the official currency is the St Helena pound, sterling bank notes are accepted in all shops and bars (but not always UK coins) and the US base will accept US Dollars, Sterling or St Helena currency. The St Helena pound is fixed at a rate of one pound Sterling. Foreign currency (including Euros) can be exchanged at the Government Cash Office (not open at weekends) and the same office will cash UK cheques with proof of identity and a cheque guarantee card. There is a charge of 1.5% for cashing cheques.

Argentina travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments throughout. The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• Large storms have caused severe flooding in some north-eastern provinces of Argentina (notably Entre Rios, Corrrientes and Chaco). Travellers should monitor media reports for any developments and follow the advice of local authorities.
  
  
• Most visits to Argentina are trouble-free. 32 British nationals required consular assistance in Argentina in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident: deaths (4 cases); hospitalisations (10 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (5 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (225 cases). You should keep a close eye on your personal belongings and hold on to them in public places such as internet cafes, train and bus stations where distraction thefts commonly occur. See the Crime section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• There are occasional outbreaks of social unrest. You should avoid demonstrations. See the Political Situation and Local Travel sections of this advice for more details.
  
  
• There are multiple outbreaks of Dengue Fever in the northern provinces of the country and cases have been reported in Buenos Aires and the surrounding province. Travellers should take precautions to prevent against mosquito bites. See the Health section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• The Yellow Fever vaccination is recommended for those nine months of age and older travelling to the regions of Argentina bordering Paraguay and Brazil in the provinces of Chaco, Corrientes, Formosa, Salta and all areas of Misiones province, including Iguaçu Falls. See the Health section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• There is an underlying threat from international terrorism. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• 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 international terrorism. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

In October 2005 a number of small explosive devices were detonated in Buenos Aires, Mar del Plata and La Plata, the majority outside banks. There were no casualties in any of these incidents, which were believed to be the work of local anti-globalisation groups.

In November 2004 three bombs exploded in Buenos Aires. One person was killed and another injured.

For more general information see terrorism abroad.

Crime

The most frequent incidents of crime involve distraction theft, bag snatching and armed robberies in the street, in taxis and in restaurants. Distraction thefts commonly occur in public areas such as internet cafes, train and bus stations. There has been a noticeable rise in reports of stolen passports in the last year, especially in the main bus stations in Buenos Aires and Mendoza. You should keep a close eye on your personal possessions and bags at all times. Con-men have been known to rob tourists while an accomplice pretends to help remove ketchup or mustard that has been 'accidentally' sprayed on them. Another common occurrence is the slitting of handbags in crowded places. Be particularly attentive in popular tourist areas, such as San Telmo. You should avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing ostentatious jewellery.

Kidnappings and so called 'express kidnappings' - short-term, opportunistic abductions, aimed at extracting cash from the victim - do occur in Argentina. Victims of express kidnapping are normally selected at random and held while criminals empty their bank accounts with their cash cards. Once the ransom is paid the victim is usually quickly released. It is also common for thefts to take place when withdrawing cash from ATMs. You should be alert at all times. Avoid isolated or poorly lit areas at night.

There has been an increase in crime by taxi drivers. When travelling by taxi we advise that, whenever possible, you book in advance. If it is not possible to book in advance and you need to hail a taxi, you should take care only to hail a 'radio taxi'. The only noticeable difference between radio taxis and others is that they have a clearly visible company logo on the rear passenger doors of the vehicle. We advise against hailing any taxi that does not display a logo. If you are being met at the airport and you do not know your greeter, ensure you confirm their identity before accepting a lift. Alternatively use a "remise" service from the official stand in the centre of the arrivals concourse.

When travelling on local buses and trains, remain alert at all times. Pickpockets are rife. If you are robbed, you should inform the local police – a police report will be required by your insurers and by the Embassy if you need a new passport. In Buenos Aires, a 24-hour police helpline in English is available on telephone number 101, to help victims. There is also a new multi-lingual free phone number for tourist assistance: 0800 999 5000. This goes through to the Tourist Police Station.

Passports should be left in a hotel safe or security box except when being used for identification purposes such as purchasing expensive items or cashing travellers’ cheques. Keep a photocopy of the details page of your passport with you at all times. Passports are required as identification for internal flights.

For more general information see victims of crime abroad.

Political situation

Argentina Country Profile

Despite a strong recovery, the economic and political crisis of 2001-02 has left its mark, particularly in the form of increased inequality and poverty. With around 35% of the population living below the poverty line there are occasional outbreaks of social unrest and demonstrations, which at times turn violent. You should monitor local media and avoid planned demonstrations and public gatherings.

Local travel

You may occasionally encounter groups of demonstrators (piqueteros) blocking major roads into and out of Buenos Aires during times of social unrest. In such cases you should expect significant delays to your journey.

Road travel

You need an International Driving Permit to drive in Argentina.

You should be aware that driving and road safety standards are not uniform: respect for speed limits and traffic signals is patchy and manoeuvres by fellow road users can be unexpected. 8100 people died in vehicle accidents in 2007. Crime against car users, particularly when stationary at traffic lights, is a problem. You should keep windows closed and doors locked at all times whilst travelling in major cities.

Care should be taken when driving in the Province of Misiones close to the borders with Paraguay and Brazil. The area is used to smuggle goods across the borders. It would be advisable to seek local advice if you intend to drive in this area.

For more general information see driving abroad.

Local laws and customs

You should not become involved with drugs of any kind. Possession of even very small quantities can lead to a minimum four-and-a-half year prison sentence.

For more general information for different types of travellers see your trip.

Entry requirements

Visas

British nationals do not require a visa to enter Argentina as a tourist. On presentation of a valid British passport you will be granted a 90-day stay in the country.

To enter Argentina for any other purpose, you should contact the Embassy of the Argentine Republic in London.

Passport validity

We recommend that you have a minimum of six months validity on your passport when entering Argentina.

Travelling with children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence that both parents have given permission for the journey before allowing lone parents to leave the country. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration, please contact the Embassy of the Argentine Republic in London.

Health

Medical facilities are good, but can be expensive.

There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website: www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living-overseas/swine-flu. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website: www.dh.gov.uk.

Asthma, sinus and bronchial problems can be aggravated by the polluted atmosphere in the major cities. If you have specific conditions (e.g. diabetes), you should bring a sufficient quantity of medical supplies and medicines with you for the trip.

Dengue Fever is common to Latin America and the Caribbean and can occur throughout the year. The northern Argentine provinces bordering Paraguay are currently suffering from a serious outbreak (notably Chaco, Corrientes, Misiones, Formosa, Salta and Jujuy) and Bolivia have seen a particularly high prevalence of cases. More recently cases have been confirmed in the capital Buenos Aires and the Buenos Aires province. However you may be at risk in any part of the country. Fatalities from Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever have been reported in Paraguay and there is no vaccination or immunisation. Travellers should take extra precautions to prevent against mosquito bites. There is no vaccine to protect against Dengue Fever, and you should therefore use mosquito repellent regularly and cover up with suitable clothing to avoid being bitten. Symptoms of Dengue Fever usually begin 7 to 10 days after being bitten and include high fever with aching joints and bones and a headache. If you develop these symptoms, you should consult a doctor.

Throughout 2008 a few cases of Yellow Fever were reported in Misiones province. As a result of this, and other outbreaks in Brazil and Paraguay, the Yellow Fever vaccination is recommended for those nine months of age and older travelling to the regions of Argentina bordering Paraguay and Brazil in the provinces of Chaco, Corrientes, Formosa, Salta province and to all areas of Misiones province, including Iguaçu Falls.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 120,000 adults aged 15 or over in Argentina 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.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Argentina 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 check the websites of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see travel health.

Natural disasters

Storm

Large storms have caused severe flooding in some north-eastern provinces of Argentina (notably Entre Rios, Corrientes and Chaco). Travellers should monitor media reports for any developments and follow the advice of local authorities.

Volcanoes

Several areas of Argentina were affected by volcanic ash following the eruption of the volcano Chaiten in Chile, which occurred on 1 May 2008. If you intend to travel to these areas you should monitor local media and follow the advice of the local authorities.

Flooding

Many of the northern provinces of Argentina suffer from seasonal flooding. This can lead to disruption to transport and delivery of foodstuffs.

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 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.

Money

ATM availability is generally good but you should not rely solely on using international debit cards bearing the Cirrus logo to access funds. You should be aware that there may be a limit on the number of withdrawals you can make per day from ATMs, and the amount you can withdraw on each occasion. Standard international charges for withdrawals may also apply. You are advised to check with your card provider before travelling. You should also ensure you carry alternative forms of payment, including a credit card (accepted in most hotels and major shops and restaurants) or travellers’ cheques, although the latter are not always accepted. US dollars are not widely accepted outside the major tourist areas for cash transactions but it is worth bringing a small supply of dollars to exchange for pesos. When exchanging money, you are advised to use only authorised bureaux de change, rather than informal traders.

United States travel advice

Travelling to the United States - ESTA

Travel Summary

• The hurricane season normally runs from June to November and can affect the whole of the southern USA. See the Natural Disasters section of this Travel Advice and Tropical Cyclones page.
  
• Human cases of A (H1N1) - swine influenza have been reported in all 50 states. You should check for updates on the US approach to challenging this public health threat and to check the number of deaths, and their location through ‘Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’ at www.cdc.gov . 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. In addition, you should monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page onf the FCO website. Guidance about pandemic flu is available through the UK Department of Health at www.dh.gov.uk and www.dh.gov.uk/en/News/Recentstories/DH-098531.
  
• Since 12 January 2009, UK travellers to the US under the Visa Waiver Programme (VWP), which allows most British Citizen passport holders to visit for up to 90 days without a visa, have required an authorisation via the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) prior to boarding a carrier to travel by air or sea to the US. Effective 20 January 2010, this will become madatory and travellers can register for authorisation online through the ESTA website at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov and are advised to do so at least 72 hours prior to travel. If you do not hve an ESTA you will be refused travel to the USA.
  
• Effective 1 July 2009 all United Kingdom emergency or temporary passports presented for entry into the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), including transit through the United States, must be electronic passports (e-Passports). The alternative is to apply for the appropriate visa. See the Entry Requirements section of this Travel Advice.
  
• Violent crime related to the drugs trade is a major issue in the Mexican states along the border with California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas. Though some foreign nationals have been among the victims in the border region, there is no evidence to suggest that they have been targeted because of their nationality. Visitors to border areas should exercise caution and follow the advice of local authorities.
  
• There is a general threat from terrorism in the United States. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has designated the terror alert status of "orange", or high, for all international and domestic flights in the USA. Definitions of the US terror alert system can be found on the US Department of Homeland Security website. See the Terrorism section of this Travel Advice.
  
• Around 6.5 million British nationals visit the United States each year (source: US Department of Homeland Security). Most visits are trouble-free. 1,972 British nationals required consular assistance in the USA in period 01 April 2008 - 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident: deaths (152 cases); hospitalisations (123 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (1,534). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (3,228 cases). The majority of cases occur in New York City; the tourist areas in Florida (principally Orlando and Miami); and Los Angeles and San Francisco. You should be alert to the dangers of car and street crime in cities.
  
• 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 Travel Advice and Travel Insurance page.

Safety and security

Terrorism
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has designated the terror alert status of "orange", or high, for all international and domestic flights in the USA. Definitions of the US terror alert system can be found on the US Department of Homeland Security website

Since 6 November 2006 you can carry liquids, gels and aerosols in 3 ounce (or smaller) containers in a small zip-top bag. You should visit www.tsa.gov for more details about this and other prohibited items.

Given that terrorist attacks have taken place in public areas, there is a risk that you could be caught up if there were other attacks in the future. You should therefore be particularly vigilant in high-profile public places.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) issued new security directives to all United States and international air carriers with inbound flights to the U.S. effective 4 January 2010. Every individual flying into the U.S. from anywhere in the world travelling from or through nations that are state sponsors of terrorism or other countries of interest will be required to go through enhanced screening. For a list of the countries affected please visit the TSA website at http://www.tsa.gov/.
The directive also increases the use of random screening on passengers travelling from any other foreign country.
At this time, security checkpoint requirements for passengers departing U.S. airports remain the same. Passengers do not need to do anything differently, but they may notice additional security measures at the airport. Passengers travelling within the United States should give themselves extra time to check in and proceed through the security checkpoint before their flight, especially during the busy holiday travel season. TSA advises that passengers travelling on international flights to U.S. destinations allow extra time for security and arrive an additional hour earlier.
We recommend that you also look at relevant US government websites, especially: http://www.fbi.gov , http://www.fema.gov, and http://www.dhs.gov and monitor news reports before and during your trip to the USA.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad page.

Political Situation

USA Country Profile.

Crime
You should bear in mind the following:

• Do not leave your door open at any time.
• Avoid wearing expensive jewellery and carrying valuable items in run down areas.
• Do not sleep in your car by the roadside or in rest areas.
• Avoid leaving items on display in cars.
• Try to stay on main roads and use well-lit car parks.
• If hit from behind while driving, indicate to the other driver to follow you to a public place and call 911 for Police help.
  

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad page.
Local Travel
Severe weather can strike any states at any time. You should keep a close watch of the weather reports.
Road Travel
If you intend to drive then an international driving licence is recommended. If you are on a fly-drive holiday then a UK driving licence is required for each driver. If you have a photocard licence you should remember to also bring the green 'paper' counterpart licence with you. You should also ensure that your car rental insurance covers occupants of your vehicle and any third party claims, including personal injury.
You should learn US traffic laws before coming to the country. For example, both the speed and drink driving limits are lower than in the UK.
It is worthwhile buying a detailed road atlas of the areas through which you are travelling.
Find out the prevailing weather conditions before embarking on a long journey, e.g. in mountainous and isolated areas where there is increased likelihood of snowfall, or in dry desert areas where you may need extra water and petrol stations could be scarce.

In 2008 there were 37,261 road deaths in the USA (Source: DfT). This equates to 12.3 road deaths per 100,000 of population and compares to the UK average of 4.3 road deaths per 100,000 of population in 2008.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Local laws and customs

Do not make flippant remarks about bombs or terrorism, especially when passing through US airports.

Laws vary from state to state, including speed limits and the age of consent. So does the age at which you may legally buy and consume alcohol, but this is usually 21 years.
The plant Khat (or Qat) is an illegal narcotic in the US. You will be arrested and detained with the possibility of a prison sentence if you are caught trying to take Khat into the US.
If you get into any difficulties with US Authorities, you should explain to them that you are a British national and ask to speak to a UK consular officer. For more general information see When Things Go Wrong.

For more general information for different types of travellers see Your Trip page.

Entry requirements

The US Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) allows most British Citizen passport holders to visit the US for up to 90 days. The types of journeys that are permissible under the VWP include general travel/tourism, certain types of business and when transitting to another country.

Since 12 January 2009, the US requires all those travelling under the Visa Waiver Programme to provide details online at least 72 hours prior to travel. This is known as an Electronic Travel System Authorisation or ESTA. This will become mandatory from 20 January 2010. For more information, and to apply online please visit the following website at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov. An ESTA once obtained will be valid for a period of two years, or the validity of the travellers passport (whichever is shorter). At present, US authorities do not propose to levy a charge for this service, although they have reserved the right to consider doing so in the future. If you do not have Internet access a third party, such as a relative or travel agent, may apply for the ESTA for you. However, you will still be responsible under the law for the questions answered on your behalf. VWP travellers should be aware that unauthorised third parties have established websites which charge for information about ESTA and for submitting applications. These are not endorsed by, associated with, or affiliated in any way with the United States Government. UK travellers are advised to be wary of such sites and businesses, particularly those that seek fees for services offered. The process, as outlined above is currently free. Obtaining an ESTA should not be confused with the separate requirement, which will continue to apply, for you to provide your airline or carrier with details of your passport, country of residence and address of your first night's accommodation in the US.

Effective 1 July 2009 all United Kingdom emergency or temporary passports presented for entry into the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), including transit through the United States, must be electronic passports (e-Passports). The alternative is to apply for the appropriate visa.

Applicants arriving in the United States with a non-compliant passport may be required to undergo further processing and/or be denied admission. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may exercise discretion at the ports of entry in cases of medical or other emergency travel. You should consult the office issuing the temporary passport for further advice.

The Department of State has announced that from 4 January 2010 HIV Infection will be removed from the list of communicable diseases of public health significance. This means that HIV infection will no longer be an inadmissible condition. Applicants who are travelling to the United States on or after 4 January who are otherwise qualified may travel visa free under the Visa Waiver Program.

For further information from the US Customs and Border Protection web-site, please visit: http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/id_visa/business_pleasure/vwp/epssprt_vwp.xml.

More details are available on the VWP and other aspects of US immigration at the following websites:

US Embassy in London

Department of Homeland Security

US Department of State

If you have any doubts about whether you are eligible to enter the US under the VWP, or about visa matters generally, you are advised to contact the US Embassy in London before your travel. The Visa Information line is 0904 245 0100 (calls are charged at £1.20 per minute).

Please also read the following Questions & Answers:

Do I qualify to travel under the VWP or do I need a visa?

Several million British nationals travel to the US annually under the VWP without any problems. Only people described as a "British Citizen" on the photo page in their passport qualify to enter the US under the VWP. If you are described as a "British Subject", "British National (Overseas)", "British Overseas Territories Citizen", "British Dependent Territories Citizen", "British Protected Person" or "British Overseas Citizen", you will need a visa.

You will also probably need a visa if you fall into one of the following categories (Note: this list is not exhaustive).

You intend to stay longer than 90 days
You intend to travel to the US for a reason other than business, pleasure or transit
You are conducting official government business
You have been arrested (even if not convicted)
You have a criminal record
You have a serious, communicable disease (including HIV)
You have been refused entry to the US on a previous occasion
You have been deported from the US
You have overstayed during a previous visit

If you are unsure, or if you think that your situation falls into any of the above categories, you should consult the US Embassy (see above) – you must do this well in advance of any plans to travel.

Does my British passport allow me to travel under the VWP?

To enter under the VWP your passport must contain a machine-readable zone (MRZ).

At the foot of the photo page. The MRZ contains 2 lines of text as letters, numbers and chevrons (>>>). If the area is blank the passport is not machine-readable and you need to apply for a visa.

The new style passports containing a biometric chip and an MRZ are acceptable for the VWP.

My child is included in my passport is that OK?

No - each person entering under the VWP must have their own MRZ passport.

Can I extend my stay under the VWP?

No - US Immigration does not grant extensions beyond 90 days. If you would like to stay in the US for longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a visa before travelling. For those already in the US hoping to extend beyond 90 days, you will need to depart the US and apply for a visa.

What is the Electronic System for Travel Authorization?
ESTA is an automated system used to determine the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the VWP. It requires the same information as the paper I-94W form that VWP travelerstravellers currently fill out en route to the U.S.
Why is a travel authorization via ESTA required for VWP travellers?
U.S. legislation required the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to implement an electronic travel authorization system and other measures to enhance the security of the VWP. ESTA adds a layer of security that allows DHS to determine, in advance of travel, whether an individual is eligible to travel to the United States under the VWP and whether such travel poses a law enforcement or security risk.
How far in advance of my trip do I need to apply for travel authorisation?
Applications may be submitted at any time prior to travel. We recommend that travel authorization applications be submitted as early as possible, as soon as travel is planned. DHS realizes that not all travel is planned in advance, and applications for last-minute or emergency travel will be accommodated.
How long is my travel authorisation valid?
Travel authorizations are generally valid for two years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. A visitor may travel to the U.S. repeatedly within the validity period without having to apply for another ESTA.
Do I ever need to reapply for travel authorisation through the ESTA?
Yes, there are instances when a new travel authorization via ESTA would be required. If you have acquired a new passport or had a change in name, gender, or citizenship, or if the answers to any of the “yes or no” ESTA questions have changed, a new application must be submitted. Also, once the travel authorization expires, a new travel authorization via ESTA is required. Applicants may also update their destination addresses or itineraries should they change after their ESTA has been approved, although this will not be required.
How much time does it take for the system to process my application?
Once a traveller’s application has been successfully submitted online, in most cases an almost immediate determination of eligibility for travel is provided.
If a traveller is approved through ESTA to travel to the United States, does that mean that the traveller can enter the country?
Not necessarily. An ESTA approval only authorises a traveller to board a carrier for travel to the US under the VWP. An approved ESTA is not a guarantee of admissibility to the US at a port of entry. In all cases, Customs and Border officials make admissibility determinations at US ports of entry or pre-clearance facilities.
Do VWP travellers need to bring a paper printout of their ESTA approval to the airport?
No. The DHS will be able to communicate a travellers ESTA status with the carriers, but it is recommended that you print out the ESTA application response in order to maintain a record of your ESTA application number and of your confirmation status.
The ability to Transit Without Visa (TWOV) in the US has been suspended. Those travellers who are passing through the United States ‘in transit’ but are not eligible for the Visa Waiver Programme must obtain a visa prior to travel.


Does my British passport have to be valid for six months beyond my date of departure from the United States?
No, if your passport is not valid for at least six months beyond your date of departure from the United States, it will not affect your eligibility to travel. The United States has an agreement with the United Kingdom automatically extending the validity of a passport for six months past the passport's expiration date. Therefore, your passport need remain valid only for the duration of your stay in the United States.
If you are travelling visa free under the Visa Waiver Program and your passport is not valid for 90 days, you will be admitted into the United States until the date on which the passport expires.

I have a US criminal record - is that a problem?

US Criminal Records are linked to US Immigration databases. If you have a previous conviction in the US; if you have violated your probation; or if you think you may have a US arrest warrant against you, we advise that you consult the US Embassy in London before travelling. Failure to do so may result in detention and/or deportation. Exclusion periods for aliens with previous convictions are as follows:

3 years - After being found inadmissible as an arriving alien.
10 years - Being ordered removed/excluded.
20 years - After being found inadmissible and having previously been excluded, deported or removed (i.e. illegal re-entry).
Life - Aggravated Felonies.

Is dual nationality allowed?

Under US law if you or your children are dual UK-US nationals travelling between both countries, you should travel with both passports. US law also requires that dual US nationals use their US passport to enter and exit the country - those who attempt to travel on their foreign passport risk being denied boarding. Further information can be obtained from the US State Department (see above).

What do I do if I have renounced my US citizenship?

If you have renounced your US citizenship, you should carry a copy of your Certificate of Loss of Nationality when you travel to or from the US. If you do not, you may not be allowed to board your aircraft.

What will happen on arrival in the US?

En route to the US by Air or Sea, a representative will give you a white form I-94 (if you are a visa holder) or a green Form I-94W (if you are a Visa Waiver Program traveller) to fill out before you arrive in the US.
Upon arrival, a US Customs and Border Protection officer will guide you through the inspection process, so have your travel document ready, such as passport and Form I-94/I-94W.
The officer will review your travel documents and ask questions, such as why you are visiting for how long.
The officer will scan up to 10 of your fingerprints and take your photograph with a digital camera.
The officer will tell you when you have completed the process.
Upon departure from the US, you should return the Form I-94 to the Airline or Ship representative as you depart.
The above arrival information can also be found at the US Department of Homeland Security website.
US-VISIT: The US Department of Homeland Security's US-VISIT program provides visa-issuing posts and ports of entry with the biometric technology that enables the U.S. government to establish and verify your identity when you visit the United States.
In many cases, this process begins overseas at a U.S. visa issuing post, where a traveller's biometrics - digital fingerprints and a photograph - are collected and checked against a watch list of known criminals and suspected terrorists. When the traveller arrives in the United States, U.S. Immigration officials collect the same biometrics to verify that the person at the entry port is the same person who received the visa. Immigration officials use this information to help them make visa-issuance and admission decisions as part of the visa application process or entry inspection.
Unlike names and dates of birth, which can be changed, biometrics are unique and virtually impossible to forge. Collecting biomtrics helps the U.S. government prevent people from using fraudulent documents to enter the country illegally. Collecting biometrics also helps protect your identity in the event your travel documents are lost or stolen.
US-VISIT currently applies to all international visitors (with limited exemptions) entring the United States (this includes visitors travelling under the Visa Waiver program).

Are there special considerations for lone parents travelling with children?

Lone parents travelling with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing them travel. For further information on rules for the US please contact the US Embassy in London (see above.)

How do I apply for a visa?

Most applicants for US visas are required to attend an interview at a US Embassy or Consulate prior to issue. The waiting time for an interview varies. The US Embassy in London finger-scans visa applicants.

If you are in the United States and hold either a C, E, H, I, L, O or P visa, you are obliged to leave the country if you wish to renew or change your visa status. For further information, we recommend that you visit the State Department website (see above) for more details or consult an attorney specialising in immigration law.

What can I do if I had a problem entering the US?

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has launched the DHS Traveller Redress Inquiry Programme (DHS TRIP). This is a single point of contact for individuals who have inquiries or seek resolution regarding difficulties they experienced during their entry into the United States. For further information, we recommend that you visit the US Department of Homeland Security website.

Health

Medical treatment can be very expensive; there are no special arrangements for British visitors. The British Embassy and Consulates-General cannot assist you with medical expenses. You should ensure that you have comprehensive medical insurance, which includes hospital treatment and medical evacuation to the UK
A (H1N1) Swine Influenza
Human cases of A (H1N1) - swine influenza have been reported in all 50 states. You should check for updates on the number of deaths and their location through ‘Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’ at www.cdc.gov . 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. In addition, you should monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page onf the FCO website. Guidance about pandemic flu is available through the UK Department of Health at www.dh.gov.uk and www.dh.gov.uk/en/News/Recentstories/DH-098531.
West Nile virus is common to the USA and there are occasional outbreaks of eastern equine encephalitis (triple e virus) reported.
In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 1,100,000 adults aged 15 or over in the USA were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 0.6% 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 page.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to the USA 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 National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland’s Fit for Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.
For more general health information see Travel Health page.

Natural disasters

Hurricanes


For details about storms in the United States, please visit http://www.wunderground.com/.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) website http://www.fema.gov also contains information about how to prepare for extreme weather conditions and what to do if you are told to evacuate. It also provides a useful list of disaster supplies that will help if you live in an area affected by storms and hurricanes.

You should monitor local and international weather updates from World Meteorological Organisation and the US National Hurricane Centre. For more general information see Tropical cyclones page.

Earthquakes

The West Coast of the USA, including Hawaii and Alaska, is prone to Earthquakes. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) and other scientists conclude that there is a high probability of at least one magnitude 6.7 or greater quake, capable of causing widespread damage, striking the region before 2032. Please refer to the following website: http://earthquake.usgs.gov/learning/preparedness

Wild Fires
Forest and brush fires (wild fires) are a danger in many dry areas in the US, particularly on the West Coast from March to November. The greatest fire risk is during a period of dry weather and high winds, which can cause brush fires to spread very rapidly. You should monitor local media reports about such fires and follow the advice of local law enforcement officials. You should also check with your hosts in the US if you intend to travel to areas which may be affected.
The southwestern United States, especially California, is experiencing a serious drought and brush fires are a major threat across the region. The risk of major brush fires around Los Angeles and all of southern California is very high, especially from August to November. Areas of highest risk are the canyons and hills where dry vegetation and high winds can cause wild fires to move very quickly and threaten property, especially where urban areas abut wild land. Visitors and residents are urged to follow the advice of local law enforcement, especially in respect of orders to evacuate an area under threat.
The following websites can provide up-to-date information on wildfires:
National
- www.nifc.gov - the National Interagency Fire Center website
California
- http://www.calfires.com for general information on wild fires in California
- http://www.fire.ca.gov/index_incidents.php - includes statewide fire map identifying the locations of fires;
- http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/roadinfo/statemap.htm - to check roads for road closure/delays
Other States
- http://azsf.az.gov/fire_information/ - for general information on wild fires in Arizona

- http://www.utahfireinfo.gov/ - for general information on wild fires in Utah

General

Insurance

Comprehensive travel and medical insurance is essential; at least $1,000,000 cover, which includes hospital treatment and medical evacuation to the UK, would be wise. 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 page.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas see When Things Go Wrong page.

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.

Turks & Caicos Islands (British Overseas Territory) travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments throughout. The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• The hurricane season in Turks & Caicos normally runs from June to November. See the Natural Disasters section of this Travel Advice and Tropical cyclones.
  

• The Turks and Caicos Islands are a British Overseas Territory. There is no formal British diplomatic or consular representation in the Turks and Caicos Islands and the local authorities deal with all requests for consular assistance. See the General (Consular assistance) section of this Travel Advice. Most visits to the Turks and Caicos Islands are trouble-free. But you should nonetheless take sensible precautions against petty crime.
  

• British passport holders do not require visas to enter Turks and Caicos Islands. For visa enquiries, non-British passport holders should contact Their nearest British Embassy for advice or contact the TCI Immigration Department on +1 649 946 2801. See the Entry Requirements section of this Travel Advice.

• 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 places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

• 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 Travel Advice advice and our Travel Insurance page.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public places , including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. For more general information see our Terrorism Abroad page.

Crime

The overall crime rate in the Turks and Caicos Islands is low. The level of crime on Providenciales, the first point of arrival into the Turks and Caicos Islands for most visitors and the territory’s economic hub, is higher than on the other islands where incidences of serious crime are rare. Most crime tends to be as a result of opportunistic burglary and theft, although incidents of more serious robberies have been reported recently. There have also been some reports of armed robbery. Victims of robberies may suffer injuries if they resist.

Whilst the overall crime rate across the islands remains low, you are advised to safeguard your possessions irrespective of which island you visit and to take normal precautions to ensure your personal safety. You should avoid carrying large amounts of cash and other valuables and take particular care to safeguard your passport, as this cannot be replaced locally. Use hotel safety deposit facilities to safeguard passports and valuables.

For more general information see our Victims of Crime Abroad page.

Political Situation

Turks & Caicos Islands Country Profile

On 14 August 2009, the FCO Minister responsible for the Overseas Territories instructed the Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands to bring into force an Order in Council suspending ministerial government and the House of Assembly, and replacing them with an Advisory Council and a Consultative Forum. This followed the submission to the Governor of the final report of the Commission of Inquiry set up in July 2008 to look into possible corruption or other serious dishonesty in recent years of past or present elected members of the legislature. In that report, the Commissioner found that there was information in abundance pointing to a high probability of systemic corruption and/or serious dishonesty.

The suspension will last no longer than it takes for the necessary reforms to be implemented and to take effect. The UK Government has said that elections should be held by July 2011.

Local Travel

If you go to isolated spots or remote islands, or go diving and snorkelling, you should leave your destination details and an expected time of return with a friend, relative, or hotel receptionist. You should avoid isolated spots at night.

Standard taxi fares exist for most destinations on the principal islands, however, charges may be applied per person. Clarify the fare with the driver before beginning a journey.

Road Travel

You can use a British or International Driving Licence for a period of one month. After this a local licence should be obtained from the Department of Road Safety.

Most hire cars and jeeps are left-hand drive. If hiring a vehicle, remember to drive on the left. Observe speed limits (20mph in town, and 40mph elsewhere). Do not drink and drive, and use seat belts on all journeys. Accidents, sometimes serious, are on the increase on the Leeward Highway (Providenciales), especially at night.

For more general information see our Driving Abroad page.

Local laws and customs

You should not become involved with drugs of any kind. Possession of even a small quantity attracts severe penalties.

For more general information for different types of travellers see our Your Trip page.

Entry requirements

Visas

Visas are not required if you have a valid UK Passport (see Passport validity, below). The Turks and Caicos Islands Immigration department will normally, in the first instance, give you permission to stay for up to 30 days. You will need a permit to work on any of the islands.

For visa enquiries, non-British passport holders should contact their nearest British Embassy for advice or contact the TCI Immigration Department on +1 649 946 2801.

Passport Validity

You must ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months on arrival.

Travelling with children

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

Health

Medical facilities in the Turks and Caicos Islands are limited. Serious cases are referred overseas, usually to Miami or Nassau.

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

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Turks and Caicos Islands 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 National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see our Travel Health page.

Natural disasters

The Islands’ infrastructure has largely recovered from the damage caused by the September 2008 Hurricane Ike. There is still evidence of damage on Grand Turk and South Caicos but the recovery/rebuilding process is well underway and most hotels/guest houses have re-opened.

The hurricane season in the Caribbean normally runs from June to November. You should monitor local and international weather updates from the World Meteorological Organisation. You can also access the US National Hurricane Centre for updates. For more detailed information about what to do if you are caught up in a hurricane see our Tropical cyclones page.

Direct hits are, historically, rare. Hotel management and local radio stations will pass on government advice if a hurricane is forecast.

General

Insurance

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

If things do go wrong when you are oversees then this is our When Things Go Wrong page.

Consular assistance

The Turks and Caicos Islands is a British Overseas Territory; there is no British diplomatic or consular representation. The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force will assist with crime related matters and can be contacted on (+1) (649) 946 2299 (Grand Turk) or (+1) (649) 946 4259 (Providenciales).

You should take particular care to safeguard British passports as these can only be replaced outside the Turks and Caicos Islands. You should report the theft or loss of a British passport immediately to the police (from whom a written report must be obtained) and to the Director of Immigration (tel: +1 649 946 2801). In an absolute emergency the Department of Immigration will be able to issue emergency travel documents (not valid for travel through the United States of America).

All applications for renewal of British passports from British Citizens resident in the Turks and Caicos Islands, who acquired their citizenship other than through the Overseas Territories Act 2002, must be submitted on application form SE/O4/01 to the Immigration Department, Grand Turk. It will then be sent to Identity and Passports Service (previously known as United Kingdom Passport Service) for processing.

Registration

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

Contact Details

Address:

Governor’s Office – Grand Turk

Waterloo

Grand Turk

Turks & Caicos Islands

Tel: (+1) (649) 946 2308/9
Email: Governorgt@fco.gov.uk

Office hours:

GMT:

Mon-Thurs: 1300-1730/1900-2130

Fri: 1300-1730/1900-2100

Local Time:

Mon-Thurs: 0800-1230/1400-1630

Fri: 0800-1230/1400-1600

The Governor also has periodic representation in Providenciales at:

Governor’s Office - Providenciales

Hilly Ewing Building

Leeward Highway

Providenciales

Turks and Caicos Islands

Tel: +1 (649) 941 8604

Fax: +1 (649) 941 6111

Please contact the Governor’s Office in Grand Turk for details of current operating hours.

Trinidad and Tobago travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with an amendment to the Summary (removal of reference to Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting paragraph). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• You should be aware that there are high levels of violent crime, especially shootings and kidnappings. British nationals have been victims of violent attacks, particularly in Tobago where law enforcement is weak. See the Crime section of this advice.
  

• Around 57,000 British nationals visited Trinidad and Tobago in 2006 (Source: Central Statistical Office). 85 British nationals required consular assistance in Trinidad and Tobago in the period 01 April 2006 – 31 March 2007. The main types of incident for which they required consular assistance were for: replacing lost and stolen passports; violent crime; and dealing with arrests or detentions, mostly for drugs offences.
  

• The hurricane season in the Caribbean normally runs from June to November. See the Natural Disasters section of travel advice and our Tropical cyclones page.
  

• There is an underlying threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. See the Terrorism section of this advice.
  

• 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 our Travel Insurance page.

Safety and security

Terrorism

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

For more general information see our Terrorism Abroad page.

Crime

Trinidad

There is an increasing level of gang related violence and crime in Trinidad. Incidents are concentrated in the inner city neighbourhoods east of Port of Spain's city centre, particularly Laventille, Morvant and Barataria, but can occur in other areas.

Theft from vehicles and property can be a problem in parts of downtown Port of Spain and in other urban areas. Cruise ship passengers should take particular care when walking around the docks and downtown, and should avoid straying into areas affected by gang violence. There has also been a worrying increase in violent crime, muggings and robberies in all areas in 2009. There have also been attacks, some involving firearms, at tourist sites, including Fort George, the Pitch Lake, Las Cuevas beach and also at car parks of supermarkets, shopping malls, nightclubs, restaurants and business premises, including hairdressers and vegetable stalls. There have been a number of incidents involving British nationals, including stabbings and violent attacks.

You should not carry large amounts of cash or wear eye-catching jewellery. Use hotel safety deposit boxes to store valuables, money and passports. Do not walk alone in deserted areas even in daylight.

Tobago

Although many visits to Tobago are trouble free, crime against tourists in Tobago and the inability of the Tobago authorities to apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators remains a concern. The authorities on the island are taking positive steps and the response times of the police have improved.

There have been a number of serious robberies against tourists and residents. Some of these incidents have been accompanied by violence, including attempted rape. In August 2009 a British couple were attacked in their home in Bacolet. The couple suffered life threatening injuries that required medical evacuation to Port of Spain.In Bon Accord a British visitor was subject to a robbery and sexual assault at her villa in the Black Rock area. Caution is therefore advised when renting villas in Tobago. All villas should have adequate security measures in place, including the provision of external security lighting, grills and 24-hour security guards. You should be aware of your surroundings at all times and preferably carry a mobile 'phone with roaming capability for use in emergency. Petty theft from cars has also increased.

Visitors are advised to visit isolated beaches such as Englishman's Bay and King Peter's bay only as a member of an organised group. Consult your tour operator if in doubt. For more general information see our Rape and Sexual Assault Abroad page.

For more general information see our Victims of Crime Abroad page.

Political Situation

Trinidad and Tobago Country Profile

Local Travel

Road Travel

The standard of driving in Trinidad and Tobago is erratic. High speed road accidents on the main East/West and North/South highways in Trinidad that result in fatalities are a regular occurrence. Some of the roads are narrow and winding and the surface of a low standard. When hiring a car, you should drive with care. If you do not have a vehicle, you should use hotel taxis, particularly after dark.

For more general information see our Driving Abroad page.

Sea Travel

In June 2007 an accident involving two bathers and a motorised boat resulted in serious injuries and an air evacuation. Bathers should be aware that no local maritime legislation in Trinidad and Tobago law exists under which boat drivers can be charged and prosecuted for reckless driving following an incident.

For more general information see our River and Sea Safety page.

Local laws and customs

Drug traffickers face severe penalties in Trinidad and Tobago. The authorities are alert to the carriage of illicit drugs of any kind and checks are thorough. You should pack all luggage yourself and do not carry items which do not belong to you.

Trinidad and Tobago has a number of laws, which make certain homosexual acts illegal.

You should be aware that it is an offence for anyone, including children, to dress in camouflage clothing.

For more general information for different types of travellers see our Your Trip page.

Entry requirements

Visas

British visitors do not need visas to enter Trinidad and Tobago. Visitors are generally given 90 days to remain in the country but extensions can be obtained from the Passport and Immigration Department, 67 Frederick Street, Port of Spain.

Passport validity

You should ensure that your passport has a minimum of six months’ validity before entering Trinidad and Tobago.

Health

In some areas of Trinidad and Tobago medical facilities can be limited and may not be up to UK standards. Private clinics are able to treat most ordinary problems, but there may be a need for medical evacuation to Miami or elsewhere in cases of serious accident or illness. You should check that your insurance covers this.

Dengue Fever is common to Latin America and the Caribbean and can occur throughout the year. There has been a marked increase in the number of reported cases in Trinidad in 2008.

There have been some reports of a yellow fever outbreak amongst the monkey populations in rural forested areas on the island of Trinidad. This has lead to an increased demand for yellow fever vaccines from hospitals and clinics.

Please refer to your GP and advice contained within the links below for guidance.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 13,000 adults aged 15 or over in Trinidad & Tobago were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 1.5% 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 our HIV and AIDS page.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Trinidad & Tobago 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 National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general information see our Travel Health and Swine Flu pages and the UK Department of Health at: www.dh.gov.uk .

Natural disasters

Earthquakes

Earthquakes are a potential threat and tremors are felt occasionally. For advice on how to protect yourself in the event of being caught in an earthquake or tremor, please see: http://www.geologyuk.com/index.htm

Hurricanes

The hurricane season in Trinidad and Tobago normally runs from June to November. You should monitor local and international weather updates from the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO). You can also access the National Hurricane Centre for updates. Please also see our Tropical cyclones pages for more detailed information about what to do if you are caught up in a hurricane.

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 our Travel Insurance page.

If things do go wrong when you are oversees then see our When Things Go Wrong page.

Registering with the British High Commission

We recommend you 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.

Honorary Consul, Tobago

The British High Commission has an honorary consul in Tobago, James Morshead, who can assist in cases of emergency & lost passports. His telephone number is (00) (1) (868) 639 8855, mobile number (00) (1) (868) 680 4609. In his absence, Jeremy Knott provides back-up cover. He can be contacted on (00) (1) (868) 639 2689 or mobile numbers (00) (1) (868) 631 8269 or (00) (1) (868) 374 9822.

These telephone numbers are not for casual enquiries and should only be used in cases of genuine emergency.

St Vincent and the Grenadines travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with an amendment to the General (Passports) section (passport service for British nationals in St Vincent & the Grenadines has moved to Washington). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• The British High Commission in Kingstown closed to the public on 30 March 2007. Emergency consular enquires should be directed to the British High Commission in Bridgetown, Barbados . See the General section of this Travel Advice.
  
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• Around 16,500 British nationals visited St Vincent and the Grenadines in 2007 and 9,781 from January to September 2008 (Source: St Vincent and Grenadines Ministry of Tourism). Most visits to St Vincent and the Grenadines are trouble-free. But you should be aware that cases of robbery and other crimes do occur.
  
  
• Violent crime is a problem within local communities, and can occasionally affect tourists. Crimes include muggings, and thefts from hotels, holiday homes and in particular, yachts. See the Crime section of this Travel Advice.
  
  
• The hurricane season in St Vincent and the Grenadines normally runs from June to November. See the Natural Disasters (Hurricanes) section of this Travel Advice.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance, which includes medical evacuation, 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 Travel Advice .

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

The vast majority of visits are trouble-free. St Vincent and the Grenadines is a friendly and welcoming country and overall crime rates are relatively low. Despite the relaxed atmosphere, however, there have been incidents of violent crime including murder. These tend to occur within the local community but can sometimes affect tourists. Crimes including muggings and thefts from hotels, holiday homes and, in particular yachts do occur. A tourist couple were assaulted and robbed in Bequia in November 2008.

You should therefore maintain at least the same level of security awareness as you would in the UK and ensure that your living accommodation is secure. Apply the same measures if you are staying on a yacht. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, including beaches after dark. Do not carry large amounts of cash or jewellery. Valuables and travel documents should, where possible, be left in safety deposit boxes and hotel safes.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

St Vincent and the Grenadines Country Profile.

Road Travel

All drivers are required to hold a local driving licence. Car hire companies sell temporary licences at the time of hiring a vehicle. A valid UK driving licence is required in order to obtain a local one.

Motorists drive on the left in St Vincent and the Grenadines. Most roads are narrow by UK standards and many are in need of repair. In mountainous areas the roads can be extremely steep and have sharp hairpin bends, many of which are not clearly marked. Automatic four-wheel drive vehicles are popular, and in some areas essential. Given local conditions, you should drive slowly and remain vigilant.

Driving standards differ from those of the UK and Vincentians have a more relaxed attitude to the rules of the road. You should be tolerant of this.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Air Travel

You will have to pay a departure tax of EC$40 (or US$15) per person when leaving St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Local laws and customs

You should note that there are severe penalties for all drug offences. Pack all luggage yourself and do not carry anything through customs for anyone else.

You should be aware that it is an offence for anyone, including children, to dress in camouflage clothing.

Certain homosexual acts are illegal under Vincentian laws.

For more general information for different types of travellers see Your Trip.

Entry requirements

Visas

British passport holders do not need visas to enter St Vincent for visits up to three months. You should note that overstaying without permission is an offence and paid employment is prohibited without a work permit.

Passport validity

On the date of entry your passport should have at least six months' validity remaining.

Foot and mouth disease

St Vincent has not lifted the ban on the import of fresh beef. Import licences are required for the import of any foodstuffs to the island.

Health

Health care is generally good for basic illnesses in St Vincent and the Grenadines; services are available at the primary and secondary levels. There are 38 health centres, which facilitate the delivery of primary care. Secondary care is offered at the General Hospital in Kingstown. This is a 209-bed hospital offering some specialist care. For further specialist care it may be necessary to be medically evacuated by air ambulance to Barbados or Trinidad. Acute care, not requiring specialist intervention, is also provided by five rural hospitals.

There is a dedicated Swine Flu on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu is available on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.

Dengue fever is common to Latin America and the Caribbean and can occur throughout the year. In 2007 there was a marked increase in the number of reported cases of dengue across the region. Dengue Fever is found throughout St Vincent and the Grenadines.

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 St Vincent 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 National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

Natural disasters

Hurricanes

The hurricane season in the Caribbean normally runs from June to November. You should monitor local and international weather updates from the World Meteorological Organisation and the US National Hurricane Centre. Please also see Tropical cyclones for more detailed information about what to do if you are caught up in a hurricane.

St Vincent has an active volcano; the last major eruption of La Soufriere was in 1979.

General

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance, which includes medical evacuation by air ambulance, 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.

Package holidays

If you are on a package holiday, you must travel on the specified return date. If you fail to do so it is likely that you will have to pay for the return ticket yourself.

Replacing your passport

Keep a copy of the photo page of your passport and relevant visa stamp in case your documents are stolen.

The passport service for British nationals in St Vincent and the Grenadines has now moved from Barbados to the UK Passport Service Centre for the Americas and Caribbean in Washington D.C. (http://ukinusa.fco.gov.uk/passports).

If you are applying for a renewal of your UK passport and you are in St Vincent and the Grenadiines, your application, with the appropriate passport fee plus a return courier fee of US$21, should be sent direct to:

The UK Passport Service for the Americas and Caribbean

British Embassy

19 Observatory Circle, NW

Washington, DC 20008

The British High Commissioin in Bridgetown will continue to issue Emergency Passports for people who have lost their passports and who have an urgent need to travel to the UK.

St Pierre & Miquelon travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with an amendment to the Summary and Health section. The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• St Pierre and Miquelon is a French Overseas Territory. There is no formal British diplomatic or consular representation. See the General (British representation) section of this Travel Advice.
  
  
• Most visits to St Pierre & Miquelon are trouble-free. We are not aware of any British nationals who required consular assistance in St Pierre and Miquelon in 2008. Although the risk from crime is also low, it does exist and you should take precautions.
  
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public places, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) does not provide any health cover in St Pierre and Miquelon.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling to St Pierre & Miquelon. 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 our Travel Insurance page.

Safety and security

Terrorism

You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.

For more general information see our Terrorism Abroad page.

Entry requirements

Visas

St Pierre and Miquelon is a Territorial Collective (Collectivité Territoriale d’Outre-mer) of France. If you are a British Citizen or British Subject with Right of Abode in the UK, you will not need a visa to enter St Pierre and Miquelon. Other British passport holders should confirm the current entry requirements with the nearest French Diplomatic mission.

Passport validity

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

Travelling with children

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

Health

There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) does not provide any health cover in St Pierre and Miquelon.

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

You should seek medical advice before travelling 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 National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) [opens a new website] and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel [opens a new website] or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general information see our Travel Health page.

General

Insurance

We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling to St Pierre and Miquelon. 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 see our When Things Go Wrong page.

Registration

Register with our LOCATE [opens a new website] 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.

British representation

There is no resident British Diplomatic Mission in St Pierre and Miquelon. Routine consular matters are covered by the British Embassy in Paris. In case of real emergency (death or serious accident) the British High Commission in Ottawa may be able to provide some assistance.