Romania travel advice

Travel Summary

• There is an underlying threat from terrorism. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• Most visits to Romania are trouble-free. 17 British nationals required consular assistance in Romania in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (7 cases); hospitalisations (5 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (2 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (34 cases). If you need to contact the emergency services in Romania call 112.
  
  
• There are reports of Influenza A (H1N1) (Swine Flu) in Romania. The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase is currently at Level 6. The WHO website at: www.who.int has further details. You should monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page for further information. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at: www.dh.gov.uk. See the Health section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism

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

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

You are advised to maintain at least the same level of personal security awareness as in the UK. You should also be alert to the risk of petty theft in large towns, especially in Bucharest, and for pickpockets and bag snatchers in crowded areas, particularly near exchange shops, hotels, on public transport (especially to the airport), main railway stations and inside airport terminals. Organised attacks by groups, often including children, occur. The most common method is of distraction whilst several people, often the children, attempt to snatch watches and jewellery from pockets or from around the neck and wrist. We have also heard reports of a scam involving thieves who present themselves as plain-clothes policemen. They flash a badge and often ask to see passports and wallets. Thye count the money and give the documents back, but when they return the wallet, some of the money is missing.

We are aware of thefts of valuables including passports from hotel rooms. Items of value, including passports and credit cards should be deposited in hotel safes. However, you should carry a photocopy of the information pages of your passport as ID.

You should be aware that there are reports of credit or charge cards being 'copied' when used in some bars and restaurants, resulting in illegal charges being raised against the user account.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Romania Country Profile

Local Travel

Bucharest has cheap and plentiful public transport provided by underground, bus, and tram. Yellow taxis are also abundant but make sure prices are listed on the side of the vehicle and that the taxi bears a company name. There are frequent reports of foreign visitors being overcharged by taxi drivers. Other cities have fairly good bus services. Cities and towns are linked by extensive rail services. If travelling on a domestic air flight, you should have your passport ready for inspection at all times.

If you are driving to Romania, please note that on entry you are required to pay a road toll to allow you to use the national roads. Tolls are charged on motorways and main roads out of town, payable in Euros. Upon payment, ensure you receive and display the windscreen stickers confirming you have paid the toll. Please note that failure to pay the road toll or to display the sticker may lead to a heavy fine.

The cost for cars is three Euros for a one-week vignette or six Euros for one month, but prices may change. Costs are higher for freight vehicles and coaches for eight or more passengers. Tickets can be purchased at border points on entering the country or at post offices and at most petrol stations throughout Romania.

Road Travel

If driving, you need to be alert for horse-drawn carts and livestock especially at night. The police carry out frequent checks, and it is essential that you observe the speed limit, ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy and have with you all your car documents including evidence of insurance valid in Romania. It is illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol (alcohol level over 0.1%). Given the very low limit, you are advised not to drink any alcohol if you are driving.

In winter, equip your car for extreme conditions.

In 2007 there were 2,791 road deaths in Romania (source: DfT). This equates to 12.9 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.

Rail Travel

If travelling by train, you should check with operators on the availability of sleeping compartments and whether bicycles can be taken on board. This may vary between regions, and there may be additional charges. Thieves operate on trains, so take particular care that documents and other valuables are safe.

Local laws and customs

It is illegal to change money on the streets. Money should be changed in recognised exchange shops, banks and hotels.

The Romanian authorities treat all drug-related or sex offences very seriously (the age of consent is 18). Custodial sentences can be expected for any foreigners convicted of such offences.

Homosexuality is no longer illegal, but attitudes to the subject tend not to be broadminded and the gay community keeps a low profile.

Most airports and military bases will have signs prohibiting photography. It is always advisable to ask permission before photographing anything potentially sensitive (eg. official buildings, police cars).

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

Entry requirements

Visas

You do not need a visa to enter Romania. British citizens who enter Romania have the right to stay for a period of three months from the date of entry. If you intend to stay for a longer period than three months, you can apply for a registration certificate issued by the Romanian Authority for Immigrants as either self-employed, an employee, self-supported, or as a student. Non-EU family members, both partners and dependants, can also apply.

Working in Romania

British Citizens intending to work in Romania should register with the Romanian Office for Immigrants and will need to provide an employment contract or a certificate issued by their employer. No separate work permit is required. You can also register as self-employed in which case you would need to provide an appropriate licence. Further information on working in Romania can be found at http://www.aps.mai.gov.ro or by contacting the Romanian Office for Immigrants (Oficiul Roman pentru Imigrari) at Str. Eforie nr 3-5, corp A, et 6, sector 5, Bucharest; email: ori@mira.gov.ro. There are also new work access regulations for British nationals who are family members of Romanian citizens and for family members of EU and EEA nationals. Information is also available from the Romanian Immigration Office.

Right of residence certificate

If a British citizen has been a legal resident in Romania for a continuous period of at least five years then they can apply for a permanent right of residence certificate from the Romanian Authority for Aliens.

Travelling with children

All children entering Romania should have their own passport. Children included in parents’ passports will only be allowed entry if the passport also contains their photograph. You should check with the Romanian Embassy in London to ensure that you are travelling with correct documentation.

Health

The Form E111 is no longer valid. You should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before leaving the UK. The EHIC is not a substitute for medical and travel insurance, but entitles you to emergency medical treatment on the same terms as Romanian 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.

Rabies is common to Romania. Whilst it has largely been confined to the rural areas, you should be wary of, and try to avoid contact with, the numerous stray dogs whether in the country or the cities. If bitten, you should seek medical assistance as soon as possible. If visiting rural areas of Romania, you should consider having a course of rabies inoculations. There have also been a number of Hepatitis A cases in Romania.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 14,000 adults aged 15 or over in Romania 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 Romania 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 confirmed outbreaks of Avian Influenza in the Danube Delta, Transylvania and Bucharest. The Romanian authorities have taken measures to contain the outbreaks including restricting access to affected areas. 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.

Influenza A (H1N1) (Swine Flu)

There are reports of Swine Flu in Romania. You can check for updates on the situation through the website of the Ministry of Health of Romania at http://www.ms.ro (in Romanian only). The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase is currently at Level 6. The WHO website at: www.who.int has further details. Check Swine Flu for further information. 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.

Travellers to Romania from the UK will be asked to fill in a health questionnaire on arrival. Those who refuse to fill in the form risk a 500 RON fine (c £100). If a traveller is confirmed with swine flu, the authorities will seek to inform the other passengers about the possibility of having been infected. If travelling on a flight from New York, passengers will be screened by medical personnel on arrival. Passengers from Canada, Mexico and other US destinations may be asked to join a separate queue at the airport and will also have to complete the questionnaire.

You may be required to undergo tests if you show flu-like symptoms. Infected people are currently being treated in hospital with anti-virals. There is no quarantine per se, but infected patients can expect to be isolated.

Natural disasters

Earthquakes are not uncommon in southern and southwestern Romania and small tremors are recorded throughout the year without consequences. The last earthquake, registered at 5.3, occurred on 25 April 2009, but there were no casualties or significant damage.

General

Insurance

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

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

Registration

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

Emergency services

The telephone number for all of Romania's emergency services is 112. They have English speaking operators.

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 Romania), without paying UK duty.

The limits are:

Estonia - 200 cigarettes or 250g of smoking tobacco.

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

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

Money

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

We recommend that you carry Euros in Romania. Dollars and Sterling are not always easy to exchange for the local currency especially outside of Bucharest. You may also have difficulties using travellers’ cheques and credit cards. Romania is largely a "cash only" economy. While an increasing number of businesses do accept credit cards, you are advised to use cash due to the risk of credit card fraud. There are an increasing number of ATM machines throughout the major cities.

Romania has redenominated its currency, moving from ROL to RON. 10,000 ROL = 1 RON. The new banknotes and coins are now in circulation. Most shops, restaurants and taxis now only show prices only in RON. Others may still show prices in both RON and ROL, though this is becoming less common. This can be confusing for foreign visitors. There is a helpful guide on the National Bank website.

Portugal travel advice

Travel Summary

• There have been confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus - swine flu in Portugal. If you are concerned about the outbreak, there is a dedicated freephone number for British nationals overseas: (+44) 207 928 1010. There are also reports of confirmed human cases in Spain, which shares a border with Portugal. The Portuguese Health authorities are advising anyone who has flu symptoms to contact the Ministry of Health helpline, Saúde 24, on 808 24 24 24. See the Health section for further information.
  
  
• There is an underlying threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• A number of British nationals have been the victim of a serious sexual offence in the Algarve this summer. For more information see the section on Crime.
  
  
• Around 2,254,300 British tourists visit Portugal every year (Source: Portuguese National Statistical Office (www.ine.pt). Most visits are trouble-free. 397 British nationals required consular assistance in Portugal in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (208 cases); hospitalisations (91 cases); and arrests, for a variety of reasons (22 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (612 cases). You should be alert to the risk of petty theft. See the Crime section of this advice for more details. If you need to contact the emergency services in Portugal call 112.
  
  
• There is a legal requirement for you to show some form of identification (i.e., your passport) if requested by the police or judicial authorities, especially if you intend to drive in Portugal. See the General section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check for any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism

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

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Crime remains comparatively low in Portugal but pickpocketing, handbag snatching and theft from cars are increasingly common in major tourist areas. Take care of your belongings at all times. Do not leave your bag on the chair beside you while eating or having a drink in a café or restaurant. Do not hang it on the back of your chair or leave it unattended under the table. Thieves often work in groups and create distractions with the aim of stealing.

There has also been an increase in the number of reported passport thefts. Remember your passport is a valuable document. It is expensive to replace and can lead to serious complications if your identity is later used fraudulently. You should report the loss or theft of your passport immediately to the local police and obtain a police report. You will need the report for insurance purposes and to obtain a replacement travel document from the Consulate. For further information on replacing a lost or stolen passport, see the Passport page of the FCO website.

Passports, credit cards, travel tickets and money should not be carried together in handbags or pockets. Leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place. Do not leave any valuables in an unattended car. Remember that foreign-registered and hire cars are often targeted by thieves. Groups of thieves in the Lisbon area are reported to be damaging tyres, especially those of hire cars, and then stealing personal belongings from cars after the driver has stopped to change the tyre. If you are approached by anyone alerting you that you have a puncture, do not stop, lock the car doors and call the car hire company for assistance.

Portuguese police recommend car windows and doors are closed and locked at all times while driving at night in urban centres. Pedestrians are advised not to wear valuable jewellery or watches in public areas.

Personal attacks, including sexual assaults are infrequent. Nevertheless, you should 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 Portugal. Be aware that alcohol and drugs can lead to you being less alert, less in control and less aware of your environment. If you are going to drink, know your limit and remember that drinks served in bars overseas 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.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Portugal Country Profile

Local Travel

In addition to this general travel advice for Portugal, 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 Lisbon at http://ukinportugal.fco.gov.uk:

• Lisbon Area
• Portimao (Algarve) area
• Funchai (Madeira) area

Emergencies

In case of a consular emergency you should call the British Embassy on (+351) 213 924 000.

Forest Fires

Forest fires occur frequently in Portugal during the summer months. There have been many serious outbreaks, especially in northern and central parts of the country. There is a danger that these will become more frequent whilst the weather remains hot and dry. Please take care when visiting or driving through woodland areas; ensure that cigarette ends are properly extinguished, do not light barbecues and do not leave empty bottles behind. If you see the on-set of a forest fire, please call 112 or 117. For up-to-date information, please consult the Portuguese Fire and Civil Protection Service's website: http://www.proteccaocivil.pt/Pages/default.aspx.

Road Travel

If hiring a car, you should ensure that the vehicle insurance is fully comprehensive and covers you and your passengers for all eventualities.

As a holidaymaker, you can bring your own vehicle to Portugal for a maximum of 183 days in any 12-month period. You must not use your vehicle for any other purpose or loan it to anyone else during that time. If you intend to stay longer, you must apply to the Portuguese Customs authority to have the car legally imported. You will be fined if you leave the country without your car.

The minimum age for driving is 18. You must possess a UK driving licence or an International Driving Permit. UK-issued provisional licences are not valid for driving in Portugal. In addition to your licence, you must also carry your vehicle logbook or rental contract, proof of insurance and MOT certificate (if appropriate) together with all other relevant documentation. There are heavy on-the-spot fines for those who fail to do so.

You must carry a red warning triangle to place behind the vehicle in case of accident or breakdown and a reflective vest for use if you have to get out of your car. The wearing of seatbelts is compulsory in the front and rear of vehicles. Children under 12 must not travel in the front passenger seat. You must not carry spare (full) petrol cans in the vehicle.

Fines for traffic offences are substantial in Portugal. Such infringements as speeding, driving under the influence of drink or drugs, the use of mobile phones whilst driving and illegal parking are heavily penalised. The use of appropriate child safety seats and seat belts in the rear of the vehicle is compulsory. The police have the authority to fine on-the-spot and most of their vehicles are equipped with portable ATM machines to facilitate immediate payment. The Portuguese Highway Code can be found (in Portuguese) at: http://www.prp.pt/informacao/actualidades/act_00107.asp.

As in many other European countries, there is a toll system in operation on Portuguese motorways. Heavy fines are imposed on those who do not or cannot pay toll fees. You should take care not to use the green lanes reserved for motorists who subscribe to the automatic pay system.

Driving regulations and customs are different from those in the UK and the accident rate is higher.

In 2007 there were 854 road deaths in Portugal (source: Autoridade Nacional de Segurança Rodoviária – http://www.ansr.pt). This equates to eight 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 (DfT).

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Beaches & Swimming

Death by drowning occurs every year on Portuguese beaches and in swimming pools. The Maritime Police have the authority to fine bathers who disobey the lifeguard's warning flags.

Warning flags on beaches should be taken seriously. The red flag indicates danger. Never enter the water when the red flag is flying. If there is a yellow flag, you may paddle at the water's edge, but you may not swim. The green flag indicates that it is safe to swim, and the chequered flag means that the beach is temporarily unmanned.

Do not swim at fluvial beaches or beaches without lifeguards. Do not dive into unknown bodies of water, because hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death.

For more general information see River and Sea Safety.

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 Portugal. For more details about this see Airline Security.

Local laws and customs

Under Portuguese drug legislation, if you are caught consuming or in possession of drugs for personal use you may be subject to a fine or other sanction (including the seizure of personal belongings). Selling or trafficking of drugs is a criminal offence and subject to severe penalties.

There is a legal requirement for foreign nationals to be able to show some form of identification if requested by the police or judicial authorities. For UK nationals this means a passport. This requirement is rigorously enforced in the case of those driving cars in Portugal. In other cases, it should be sufficient to carry a photocopy of the data page of your passport, but you should be prepared to produce the original document, if necessary. This may mean being accompanied by the police to collect it from your hotel. All UK visitors are in any case advised to keep a photocopy of the data page separate from the original.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

As an EU national, you may remain in Portugal as a tourist for a period not exceeding three months. If you intend to settle, you must apply for a Registration Certificate from the local Camara Municipal (Town Hall) or from the nearest office of the Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (Portuguese immigration authority).

Passport validity

A valid British passport must be held for entry to and exit from Portugal. 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

A minor under the age of 18 travelling to Portugal must either:

• be accompanied by a parent or guardian,
• be met at the airport or point of entry by a parent or guardian, or
• carry a letter of authorisation to travel from a parent or guardian. The letter should name the adult responsible for the minor during his/her stay.

A minor who is resident in Portugal may be prevented from leaving the country if he/she is travelling unaccompanied and is not carrying a notarised letter of authority from a parent or guardian. This is particularly important for children returning to school in the UK.

Similarly, a resident minor travelling with just one of his/her parents, must have a notarised letter of authority to leave the country from the parent who is staying behind. A standard form of words (in Portuguese) covering both of these cases, may be downloaded from the Portuguese immigration service website in Portuguese.

Health

There have been confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus - swine flu in Portugal. If you are concerned about the outbreak, there is a dedicated freephone number for British nationals overseas: (+44) 207 928 1010. There are also reports of confirmed human cases in Spain, which shares a border with Portugal. The Portuguese authorities are advising anyone who has flu symptoms to stay at home and contact the Ministry of Health helpline, Saúde 24, on 808 24 24 24. Portuguese Health Authority officials are meeting any flights arriving from Mexico in order to provide advice passengers should they develop flu symptoms, and to obtain contact details for monitoring purposes. You can keep up-to-date with the situation in Portugal through the Portuguese Ministry of Health website: http://www.portaldasaude.pt/portal (in Portuguese). 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. If you wish to check for updates on the number of cases in Spain, you may consult the Spanish Ministry of Health website: www.msc.es/en/home.htm (in Spanish). 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. tel: 0800 1 513 513 (from UK only).

If you are visiting Portugal, 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 Portuguese nationals. It does not cover you for medical repatriation, on-going medical treatment or treatment of a non-urgent nature. For more general information see EHIC.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 34,000 adults aged 15 or over in Portugal 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 Portugal 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.

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

There have been no cases of human avian flu infections in Portugal.

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 the FCO's Avian & Pandemic Influenza page on the FCO website, which gives more detailed advice and information.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

General

Insurance

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

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

Registration

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

Money

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

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

In Portugal, such declarations should be made to the Customs authorities on entry or departure.

Poland travel advice

Travel Summary

• There are confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus (Swine Flu) in Poland (including some human to human transmission). The incidence of Swine Flu in Poland is still relatively low. There has been an increase in cases in recent weeks but with only mild symptoms and quick recovery. The Polish Government continues implementation of contingency plans. There are no restrictions on travel nor any other special measures in place in Poland. The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase has been raised to Level 6. The WHO website at: http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. You should monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living-overseas/swine-flu. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.
  
  
• If you intend to travel by train on popular routes such as Warsaw-Moscow you will also need to obtain the appropriate transit visa for Belarus before travelling. See Travel Advice for Moldova and the Entry Requirements section of this advice for more details
  
  
• 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 in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• There are risks of robbery on rail and bus journeys and driving can be hazardous. See the Local Travel section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• Most visits to Poland are trouble-free. 92 British nationals required consular assistance in Poland in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (24 cases); hospitalisations (15 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (41 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (80 cases). If you need to contact the emergency services in Poland call 112.
  
  
• Holders of dual Polish and British nationality should note that we may only be able to offer them a limited consular service.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.
  

Safety and security

Terrorism

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

For further information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Violent crime is rare. You should be aware of street crime and pick pockets.

Take particular care to safeguard your passport and credit/ATM cards. You are advised not to lose sight of your credit cards during transactions.

A few tourists have been the target of a scam where people claiming to be plain-clothed policemen come to their aid, usually when another person has stopped them to ask for help or directions. The "policemen" then ask to see the tourists' ID and credit cards and to be given their PIN numbers.

Where possible, avoid walking alone late at night in dark or poorly lit streets. There have been isolated incidents of muggings in towns popular with tourists. Busy streets, tourist sites, areas near main hotels, money exchange facilities, ATM machines and public transport are also popular with thieves.

There is a serious risk of robbery at main rail stations and on all train services, especially on overnight sleepers. You are most at risk while boarding and leaving trains.

There have been problems in Warsaw, particularly at the airport involving overcharging by non-regulated taxi drivers. You should use official taxis, which have the name and telephone number of the taxi company on the side of the door and on the top of the taxi (beside the occupied/unoccupied light). They will also show a rate card on the window of the vehicle. Taxis with a crest but no company name are not officially registered taxis.

Theft of and from vehicles is common so do not leave documents or money in your vehicle. There have been cases of vehicles with foreign number plates being stopped by gangs posing as policemen, particularly in rural and tourist areas such as the Polish lake district. If you are flagged down, you should exercise caution, remain in your vehicle and ask to see identification.

Do not leave drinks or food unattended, or accept drinks from strangers. There have been a small number of reports of drinks being spiked and visitors having their valuables stolen whilst intoxicated.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Poland Country Profile

Local Travel

Public transport tickets must be punched before travelling. Tickets must be validated at the start of the journey, at the yellow machines at the entrance to the metro stations or on board buses and trams. You will be fined on the spot if you are travelling with an invalid ticket, usually 120zl (around £30). Tickets can be bought at most newspaper stands and kiosks with a sign reading “Bilety”.

Road Travel

Poland is a major east-west transit route for heavy vehicles. If you plan to hire a car, you should note that driving on Polish roads can be hazardous. There are few dual carriageways and even main roads between major towns and cities can be narrow and are often poorly surfaced. Streetlights, even in major cities, are weak. You must drive with your headlights on at all times. If you can, you should avoid driving a right-hand drive vehicle alone for long distances or driving long distances at night. Local driving standards are poor: speed limits, traffic lights and road signs are often ignored and drivers rarely indicate before manoeuvring. Slow moving agricultural vehicles (and horse dawn vehicles) are common in rural areas, even on main roads.

In 2007 there were 5,583 road deaths in Poland (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.

According to EU law, driving licences issued by any EU member state are mutually recognised in other EU member states. Article 94 of the Act on Road Transport (Polish law) states that a foreigner who has a valid driving licence issued by an EU Member State may drive in Poland. If you are a resident of Poland and wish to change your driving licence for a Polish licence you may do so but there is no requirement to do so.

You must carry original vehicle-registration papers, ownership documents and insurance papers at all times. This is a legal requirement. They will be asked for if you are stopped by the police and, in particular, when crossing borders. This also applies to rental vehicles. If you do not have these papers when stopped by the police they have the right to impound your vehicle and charge you for this.

There is a zero tolerance for drink driving in Poland. If you drive and have been drinking (even 1 unit of alcohol) you can be charged. If you break Polish Driving Regulations you should be prepared to pay on the spot a fine in cash in Polish currency to the Police. Foreigners who are settled in Poland and have a permanent address may be fined with a credit ticket that can be paid later.

Seat belts must be used in both front and back seats.

Using a mobile phone while driving (unless “hands free”) is banned.

For further 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 Poland. For more details about this see Airline Security.

Local laws and customs

Polish police take a strict approach to public drunkenness and if found to be drunk in a public place you may be take to a drying out clinic where a doctor or nurse will medically assess you. You will not be released until you have sobered up and this may necessitate an overnight stay. You will be required to pay for the cost of the stay.

Jay walking is an offence and if caught by the police you will be fined.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

British citizens visiting Poland do not require visas. Other categories of British passport holder such BN(O)s and BOCs do require visas and should check the regulations with the Consulate General of the Polish Embassy in London. There are no restrictions on British nationals working in Poland.

Passport validity
UK passport holders can use their passports to visit Poland up to the date they expire.

Dual nationals

Under Polish law, a Polish passport holder must be treated as a Polish national while in Poland, even if he or she holds another country’s passport. The Polish authorities, therefore, require dual Polish/British nationals to enter and exit Poland on a Polish passport. Check with the Polish Embassy in London if in doubt.

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 or leave the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. They may want to see birth certificates, a letter of consent from the other parent and some evidence as to your responsibility for the child. Polish authorities do not normally require such evidence, but if you have concerns please check with the Consulate General of the Polish Embassy in London.

Please note that you require a visa to enter or transit Belarus. This includes anyone travelling by train on the Warsaw-Moscow route.

Health

As a British national, you can gain access to emergency medical treatment in Poland. In general, medical facilities in Poland are of an equivalent standard to those in the UK. Private medical facilities are comparatively inexpensive and of a good standard. Polish doctors and nurses are well qualified but English is not always widely spoken and UK patients may face communication difficulties.

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 Polish 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.

Tick-borne encephalitis is common to Poland, especially 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 around 19,000 adults aged 15 or over in Poland 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. 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 Poland 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 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 are confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus (swine flu) in Poland (including some human to human transmission). The incidence of Swine Flu in Poland is still relatively low. There has been an increase in cases in recent weeks but with only mild symptoms and quick recovery. The Polish Government continues implementation of contingency plans. The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase has been raised to Level 6. The WHO website at: http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. You should monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living-overseas/swine-flu. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

The Polish Government has previously confirmed the presence of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) wildfowl in several locations in northern and north western Poland. The Police authorities introduced precautionary measures in the affected areas. 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 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.

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. See Travel Insurance.

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

Dual nationals

If you are a dual national of Poland and the UK and are arrested or detained in Poland, you will be deemed to be Polish by the Polish authorities. You will have the same rights as any other Polish citizen in these circumstances (including the right to legal representation), however the British Embassy may only be able to offer you limited consular assistance.

Consular 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.

Passports

If a passport is lost in Poland, replacement and emergency passport facilities are available at the Embassy in Warsaw (00 48 22 311 0000). Passport facilities are not available at the Consulates outside of Warsaw, which are headed by Honorary Consuls.

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 Poland), without paying UK duty.

The limits are:

Estonia - 200 cigarettes or 250g of smoking tobacco.

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

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

Money

The majority of Polish businesses, hotels and banks do not recognise Scottish bank notes and you will face difficulties in trying to change money.

You might find it difficult to obtain money from some ATM machines using Maestro and Visa cards due to difficulties in reading the card. Polish banks are trying to sort out the issue but it has yet to be resolved.

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

Norway travel advice

Travel Summary

• There are confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus (Swine Flu) in Norway. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at: www.who.int/ has further details. You should monitor 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. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• Around 250,000 British tourists visit Norway every year (Source: Norwegian Statisics Bureau, SSB). Most visits are trouble-free. 94 British nationals required consular assistance in Norway in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (41 cases); hospitalisations (3 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (43 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (73 cases). Petty crime does occur but at a low level compared to other European countries.
  
  
• You should be aware that drugs and drink driving laws are stricter in Norway than in the UK.
  
  
• We recommend that comprehensive travel and medical insurance is obtained 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 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 Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

There are few safety concerns in Norway, but you should be aware of the dangers of theft, particularly in the airports and railway stations in and around Oslo. The Embassy is frequently asked to assist British nationals who have had their valuables stolen just after they arrive in the county. Sensible precautions should be observed and you should take extra care of your passport, money and credit cards.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Norway Country Profile

Local Travel

Road Travel

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

In 2007 there were 233 road deaths in Norway (source: DfT). This equates to 5.0 road deaths per 100,000 of population the same average ratio as in the UK.

Distances are great and driving takes longer than you think. Narrow and winding roads may be hazardous and impassable, especially in winter. Winter tyres are mandatory from approximately 1 November to 15 April (exact dates can vary year on year). You should keep headlights on at all times and observe speed limits, which are, in general significantly lower than in the UK. Fines for exceeding the speed limit are high. You should be aware that certain driving laws differ in Norway. For example, on roads which are not marked with a priority sign (a yellow diamond), drivers must give way to traffic coming from the right.

Alcohol limits for drivers are far stricter than UK levels. Roadside checks for alcohol are frequent, and submission to a breathalyser is mandatory. Penalties for driving under the influence are severe and can lead to a prison sentence. The 0.20ml limit means in effect no alcohol 12 hours before driving.

Road Hauliers

Since 1 November 2005, all vehicles with a maximum allowable total weight of over 3,500 kg are required to be equipped with snow chains when travelling in Norway. A truckers’ guide issued by the Norwegian Public Roads Administration can be found in English at Donna Diesel. It lists current regulations and useful information about driving in Norway.

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 Norway. For more details about this see Airline Security.

Local laws and customs

You should not become involved with drugs of any kind. Possession of even small quantities can lead to heavy fines and/or imprisonment. This applies also to the use, possession and/or importation of khat/qat which is prohibited in Norway, though legal in the UK.

Imports

Norwegian authorities allow the importation of up to a maximum of 10kgs (combined total) of meat and cheese for personal consumption. If you have any other import queries may contact the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs for additional information.

You should consult the Norwegian Embassy in London before travelling to Norway with pets.

Norway is not in the EU. Many shops operate a VAT refund shopping system for non-residents. This enables you to receive refunds of the VAT on purchased goods, usually at the airport as you leave Norway. UK authorities cannot refund Norwegian VAT.

There are limits to the amount of currency you can personally carry into or out of Norway. This is currently set at 25,000 Norwegian Krone (about £2,500). If you bring any more than this into the country, the amount must be declared to Customs on arrival. Exporting currency from Norway in excess of the set limit has to be approved in advance by Norwegian Customs and transferred through a bank. Forms for this and further information can be found at TOLLVESENET. You will need a form RD0026.

Failure to comply with these rules can lead to arrest, a substantial fine and temporary confiscation of currency in excess of the limit which may then be released only through a bank.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

Visas are not required for Norway but you must hold a valid British Passport. Norway is a member country of the EEA, which entitles you to work or reside in Norway. To do so an EEA permit is required, which the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) issue.

Passport validity

You should be in possession of a valid passport. There is no minimum validity required but you should ensure that your passport is valid for your return journey.

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

There are confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus (Swine Flu) in Norway. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at: www.who.int/ has further details. You should monitor 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.

The standard of healthcare in Norway is high.

Under the terms of the EEA Regulation, you are covered for emergency treatment whilst visiting Norway. 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 Norwegian nationals. It also does not cover you for medical repatriation, on-going medical treatment or treatment of a non-urgent nature. For more general information see EHIC.

The Norwegian Food Control Authority warns that local advice should be sought if you intend to eat mussels harvested off the coast and certain types of fish from lakes and fjords.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 3,000 adults aged 15 or over in Norway 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 Norway and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland’s Fit for Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

General

Insurance

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

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

Registration

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

Money

Norway is very expensive - bring or have electronic access to plenty of money, especially if you intend to eat and drink in restaurants and bars. Bank opening hours are more restrictive than in the UK - especially in summer, though cashpoints are widely available. Most Norwegian cashpoints accept Visa, Mastercard and Cirrus cards issued by British banks. You should be aware that credit cards are generally not as well accepted as a means of payment in Norwegian supermarkets and petrol stations as they are in the UK - but this situation is improving all the time. You can send money electronically to Norway via Forex, which has five offices in Oslo. Details of its opening hours and addresses can be found here. Money can also be sent visa Western Union, which has offices in Oslo and Bergen.

Visiting in Summer

If you intend to visit forest, lake and mountainous regions you should bring plenty of insect repellent as mosquitoes and midges can be a problem. Fire bans (ie no campfires) are strictly enforced in many areas during the summer months. If you plan to go off the beaten track or out to sea, you should seek local advice about weather conditions and have suitable specialist equipment. Because of Norway’s northerly latitude the weather can change rapidly, producing Arctic conditions even in summer on exposed mountain tops.

Visiting in Winter

The winter is long (it can last well into April) and temperatures can drop to minus 25 degrees C and below. There is also wind chill factor to take into account, particularly in unsheltered areas (i.e. mountain ranges). Weather conditions can deteriorate quickly.

You should bring warm clothes and practical footwear to cope with icy roads and pavements. Special clamp-on grips (brodder) to give extra security in icy conditions can be bought locally. If you are taking part in skiing, hiking or other off road activities correct equipment should be used. Advice on equipment and weather conditions can be found at local information centres, which in smaller areas tend to be connected with rental shops where you can hire skiing equipment. Alternatively, hotels or accommodation providers will also be able to advise on local weather conditions and equipment for specific activities.

Netherlands travel advice

Travel Summary

• There are reports of confirmed human cases of Swine Flu in The Netherlands. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at: www.who.int has further details. Check Swine Flu for further information.
  
  
• There is an general threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. The Netherlands shares a common level of threat with neighbouring European countries.
  
  
• The Dutch Government introduced compulsory identification in January 2005. Everybody over the age of 14 is required to show a valid identity document to police officers and other law enforcement authorities on their request. See the Local Laws and Customs section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• Most visits to the Netherlands are trouble-free. 85 British nationals required consular assistance in Netherlands in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (30 cases); hospitalisations (5 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (31 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (305 cases). You should also be alert to the dangers of street crime in the cities. If you need to contact the emergency services in Netherlands call 112.
  
  
• We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for 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 general threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

On 6 March 2008 the Dutch government increased their alert level from "limited" to "substantial" (http://english.nctb.nl/). The reasons given for this were the increased international threat from terrorism, the release of a controversial short film about the Koran made by a Dutch MP, and the Dutch decision to extend their military presence in Afghanistan. There is no evidence that British nationals or interests will be particularly targeted, but you should avoid areas where demonstrations or gatherings are taking place. Dutch authorities have raised their level of security, particularly at airports and railway stations.

In November 2004, a prominent Dutch film maker was murdered in Amsterdam by a member of a terrorist organisation, known as the Hofstad Group. The murderer and eight other members of the group are currently serving prison sentences.

For further information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Amsterdam is a busy city and you should exercise caution particularly in central Amsterdam (especially in and around Central Station). As in many large cities, pick-pocketing and bag snatching are commonplace. Thieves often operate in gangs (particularly (but not exclusively) on the trains to and from Schiphol airport and Central Station as well as on the trams. While one will attempt to distract you (often by asking for directions or by banging on your window) another picks your pocket or steals your bag. Newly arrived and heavily laden passengers are a particular target for thieves. Be alert at all times. Do not lose sight of your luggage or your belongings. Sleeping passengers make particularly easy targets.

Opportunist thieves are also widespread and sometimes enter restaurants with the excuse of selling you something or looking for someone. Bags have been known to be stolen from between people's feet whilst they were distracted. Ensure you keep your valuables safely with you at all times and do not leave them unattended or hanging on the back of a chair.

You should avoid carrying valuables and large sums of money with you, but it is important to carry copies of identification details. If you are the victim of a theft you should contact the nearest police station and obtain a police report. If your passport is stolen a police report is acceptable to some carriers instead of a passport but these carriers also reserve the right to refuse to take you if you do not have any other proper alternative identification. You will need a police report as part of the process for replacing your passport.

Amsterdam Police are warning travellers of an increasing trend whereby men –usually originating from Eastern European countries – make themselves out to be plain clothed policemen. The trend is that one man usually addresses people to find out if they are tourists. When confirmed, two fake policemen (in plain clothes) show false police identities and pretend to be investigating counterfeit money and false credit cards. People are asked to hand over their money and credit cards for verification – sometimes they also ask for PIN numbers. Often people are searched for drugs. After the ‘inspection’ the fake policemen return all the money and cards – at least that is how it seems. Victims usually find later on that part of the money and/or credit cards are gone.

Fake policemen never wear a uniform and like to show shiny police badges. Dutch policemen don’t have badges. Also, Dutch police in plain clothes will rarely carry out this type of inspection. Always ask for identity, check it thoroughly and don’t let yourself be intimidated. Call 0900-8844 to get in touch with the nearest police station if you are not entirely happy.

In November 2005 a football fan was fatally stabbed in a busy part of central Amsterdam after being approached by a known drug dealer and asked to buy drugs. His friend was badly wounded. Avoid confrontation with anyone offering you drugs of any sort and stay away from quiet or dark alleys - particularly late at night. Even if you are tempted to buy, you risk arrest for doing so.

There is increasing suspicion of drinks being spiked in some locations downtown, especially for young women and those not in groups. Always be aware of your drink and don't leave it unattended. If you believe you have been the victim of a spiked drink seek medical help immediately and, if possible, inform the police. If you are in a group, ensure you leave together. For more information see Assault, Sexual Assault and Rape Overseas.

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

Netherlands Country Profile

Local Travel

Road Travel

If you wish to drive in the Netherlands you must have a valid full UK driving licence, insurance, vehicle documents and identification. If you are driving a vehicle that does not belong to you then written permission from the registered owner may also be requested. You are not allowed to drive on a provisional license.

In 2007 there were 709 road deaths in the Netherlands (source: DfT). This equates to 4.3 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.

Traffic regulations in the Netherlands are very similar to those of other countries in continental Europe. Roads are good and well sign posted, but are overcrowded. Long traffic jams can be expected on motorways, particularly near the major cities. Traffic offences can carry heavy, often on-the-spot fines. Using a mobile phone whilst driving is illegal and carries a heavy fine, and drivers are encouraged to use "hands free" equipment. If you are fined, you should always ask for a receipt.

The Dutch drive on the right and give priority to the right, unless otherwise indicated. They drive "assertively" and do not practice road courtesy. Be particularly careful when using roundabouts: on some you have the right of way when on them but on others right of way must be given to vehicles entering.

Be extra vigilant for trams; they have priority over other traffic and are well known to exercise that right. If a tram or a bus stops in the middle of the road to allow passengers on and off, you must stop.

Speed cameras, speed traps and unmarked vehicles are widely used to monitor speeding; exceeding the maximum speed limit can incur heavy penalties including substantial fines. Be vigilant on motorways where the maximum speed can vary. Overhead illuminated lane indicators - when in use - are mandatory. Never exceed the indicated speed limit.

Most cities have a policy of reducing non-essential traffic flows within their boundaries. Narrowing roads, obstacles, traffic lights and speed cameras are often in place to achieve this. Paid parking is the norm. It is expensive and there are insufficient parking spaces to meet demand. Clamping and towing vehicles away are commonplace and the fines are high.

Motorists must use dipped lights after dark and in misty conditions. If safety belts are fitted, they must be used. A warning triangle must be carried and, in the event of a breakdown, placed 30 metres behind the vehicles. To comply with EU legislation, children under 1.35m in height must now be carried in a proper child seat in the rear of the car.

Pedestrians should be extremely careful when crossing roads, especially on zebra crossings. Look out for cycles and mopeds, which enjoy right of way over motor vehicles and often ignore road traffic rules as well as red lights. In Amsterdam in particular, be aware that many cyclists do not use lights at night and are therefore very difficult to see. Dedicated cycle tracks are common but can also be used by invalid vehicles and mopeds, which often reach high speeds.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Amsterdam Canals

Several deaths (of all nationalities) occur each year due to drowning in the canals of Amsterdam. The majority of these happen as a result of celebrations that include drinking heavily and/or smoking cannabis. Particular care should be taken when travelling beside canals.

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 the Netherlands. For more general information see Airline Security.

All budget airlines travelling into Schiphol are now directed to the new 'H' Pier. This is a brand new building with no retail or catering facilities and only a limited number of toilets. This has led to complaints from some passengers. You should be aware that once you pass through final security and passport control to enter the H Pier you will have a long walk. You will also have to descend stairs to the final departure area. Elderly and infirm passengers or those travelling with young children may wish to bear this in mind.

Local laws and customs

The Dutch Government introduced compulsory identification and everybody from the age of 14 is required to be able to show a valid identity document to police officers and other law enforcement authorities on their request. The documents you can use to prove your identity depend on your nationality:

• If you are living in or visiting the Netherlands and are a national of the European Union (or the European Economic Area) you can use your passport or EU/Eer-vreemdelingendocument.
• If you are a dual national you can identify yourself with a valid Dutch driver’s licence, passport or Dutch/European identity card.
• Photocopies are accepted as a temporary measure but police may insist on seeing the original document as well.

Don’t carry or use drugs. The Netherlands has a reputation for being tolerant on the use of so-called ‘soft drugs’. In reality drugs are prohibited and this tolerance exists only for designated premises in the major cities. Possession of prohibited substances or the purchase of them outside these designated areas can carry a prison sentence.

Since January 2006, the purchase or smoking of soft drugs in public places is an arrestable offence in Amsterdam. There are specifically designated cafés where the use of cannabis is tolerated. Recently the sale of wild mushrooms has become popular. Travellers are advised to exercise extreme caution as combinations of alcohol, cannabis and wild mushrooms are a fatal cocktail and have resulted in several deaths.

If you are arrested, you have the right to contact the nearest diplomatic mission if you so wish. We cannot get you out of police custody but we can ensure that relatives are made aware of your arrest (if that is what you want) and will ensure that you are treated properly. We can also supply you with a list of lawyers. You should let the Embassy know if you have been refused the right to contact us. If things do go wrong when you are overseas then see the How We Can Help page of the FCO website.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

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

Passport validity

All British passport holders require a valid passport to enter the Netherlands.

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 Netherlands Embassy in London.

Moving to the Netherlands

If you intend to live in the Netherlands, you are advised to get important documents (eg your birth certificate and marriage certificates) officially certified (apostilled) at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London. Failure to do this prior to your arrival in the Netherlands may cause a delay in obtaining necessary documents (and registering any future births) as the authorities insist on the proper legalisation of all formal documents. You should also be aware that there is no facility to legalise educational documents in the Netherlands so this should also be done prior to leaving the UK.

Health

The Form E111 is no longer valid. You should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before leaving the UK. The EHIC is not a substitute for medical and travel insurance, but entitles you to emergency medical treatment on the same terms as Dutch 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 EHIC.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 18,000 adults aged 15 or over in Netherlands were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 0.2% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to the Netherlands 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 Heath 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.

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 further 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

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

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

Contact Details

Consular and Immigration Matters

British Consulate Amsterdam

Koningslaan 44

1075 AE Amsterdam

Telephone: +31 (0)20 676 4343

Consular telephone enquiries : 1400 - 1600; Consular services visiting hours: Monday to Friday 0900 - 1230, 1400 - 1530. For visa services and passport information you should refer to the Amsterdam Consulate contacts web page below.

Website : http://ukinnl.fco.gov.uk/en/our-offices-in-netherlands/contact-us/contact-consulate

Trade and Investment & Political Matters

The British Embassy

Lange Voorhout 10

2514 ED The Hague

Telephone: +31 (0)70 4270 427

Facsimile: (31) (70) 427 0345

(31) (70) 427 0346 Trade & Investment

(31) (70) 427 0347 Ambassador's Office, DHM & Political Section

Email: ukinnl@fco.gov.uk

Office Hours: GMT:

Mon-Fri: 0800-1630

Local Time:

Mon-Fri: 0900-1730

Website: http://ukinnl.fco.gov.uk/en

Montenegro travel advice

Travel Summary

• There are confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) -Swine Flu in Montenegro. 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 is an underlying threat from terrorism. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• You must register with local police within 24 hours of your arrival in Montenegro. If you do not register you may be fined, detained or face a court appearance. If you are staying in a hotel or official tourist accommodation, you will be registered automatically on check-in.
  
  
• Most visits to Montenegro are trouble-free. 7 British nationals required consular assistance in Montenegro in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (2 cases); hospitalisations (2 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (3 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (0 cases). You should be aware that you must carry your passport with you at all times for identification purposes.
  
  
• 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. Please see the General (Insurance) section and Travel Insurance of this advice for more details.

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 further information and advice see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

The level of crime is low, and crime against foreigners is particularly low but as in other parts of Europe, you should be aware of the possible incidence of street crime, particularly in larger towns. Be 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.

All incidents of crime should be reported to the local police station and a report obtained. The loss or theft of a passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the British Embassy in Podgorica. The Embassy can assist you in obtaining an emergency passport (see General section).

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

On 17 February 2008, the Government of Kosovo declared independence from Serbia. The UK Government has recognised Kosovo’s independence. On Thursday 9 October Montenegro recognised Kosovo’s independence.

Montenegro Country Profile

Local Travel

Special care should be taken in the areas that border Kosovo, and you should keep to the main roads. The Kula pass (Rozaje-Pec road) is the only official entry/exit point between Montenegro and Kosovo. Public transport (including the rail network) is outdated and overcrowded, although there have been improvements in the major towns. When using taxis, it is possible to negotiate fares where a meter is not in use. You should only use taxis that are officially marked.

Road Travel

You must have a valid international driver’s licence to drive in Montenegro. If you are taking your car, you must have vehicle registration/ ownership documents and a locally valid insurance policy. You should check that your insurance provides European Green Card vehicle insurance valid in Montenegro.

On 15 June 2008 the Montenegrin Government introduced an eco tax for using road vehicles in Montenegro. The funds raised will be used for the implementation of environmental preservation and protection projects in Montenegro. Foreign nationals must pay the tax when entering Montenegro by car. The fee amounts range from €10 to €150 and are determined according to the make and size of the vehicle. For most cars with a capacity of up to eight passengers the fee will be €10. The eco-sticker obtained upon payment of the tax will be valid for a period of one year and must be displayed on the inside of the front windscreen in the upper right hand corner.

You are advised to drive defensively and to avoid confrontation with other drivers. You are required by law to wear a seatbelt. You must drive with dipped headlights on during the day and must not use a mobile phone while driving. Excessive speeding (30km over the limit) could lead to your driver’s licence being confiscated temporarily. These offences could result in fines of between €20-300.

The general standard of roads is fair to poor with conditions worsening in rural areas, especially in the winter and after bad weather. Many roads are under construction, so there are often delays and detours. A particularly notorious road is the two-lane Moraca Canyon in Montenegro, which is often made dangerous by bad conditions and overcrowding. There are no toll roads in Montenegro. The only pay-to-drive-through point in Montenegro is the Sozina tunnel between Lake Skadar and the sea – the current fee is €2.50 per car.

You should check local developments before starting your journey.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Air Travel

Montenegro has two international airports – one approx 8km from the capital Podgorica and another near Tivat on the coast. For guidance on what you can take with you when travelling from the UK to Montenegro by air please visit: http://www.dft.gov.uk/transportforyou/airtravel/airportsecurity/.

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 often 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 Montenegro 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

British passport holders do not require visas to enter Montenegro for stays of up to 90 days. Before you travel, you should ensure that your passport is undamaged and valid for the duration of your stay Montenegro.

Before you travel

On entering Montenegro, make sure that you get an entry stamp in your passport from the border police. If you try to leave Montenegro without an entry stamp or exit visa, you may face charges of illegal immigration, a heavy fine and possible imprisonment (see ‘Crime’). Temporary residents (remaining for more than 90 days) should obtain exit-entry visas as well as residence stamps in their passports. For more information on obtaining an exit-entry visa you should visit the Government of Montenegro at: http://www.mip.gov.me/en/index.php/Visas-for-Foreign-Citizens/.

You should only enter Montenegro through recognised border crossings.

It is essential that you register with local police in the town/city where you are staying within 24 hours of your arrival in Montenegro, unless you are staying in a hotel or official tourist accommodation, 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 make your presence known to, the British Embassy in Podgorica.

Although there is no limit to the amount of money you can bring into Montenegro, you are advised to declare sums of money in excess of €2,000 (including travellers’ cheques or equivalent in other currencies). This is recommended because to take more than €2,000 out of the country you will need to provide proof that you brought the money in. Customs Officers at all border points hold declaration forms. On departure, you will need to return a certified copy of this declaration to customs so hat the money can be take out again. If you fail to comply with these rules, your money may be confiscated. In order to avoid customs charges you should declare items of value (e.g. jewellery, photographic and computer equipment) that you are temporarily importing into Montenegro. These items should be intended for your own personal use and must be taken with you when you leave the country.

Passport validity

You should ensure that your passport is undamaged and valid for the duration of your stay in Montenegro.

Health

There is a reciprocal healthcare agreement for British nationals, which entitles you to free genuine emergency treatment in Montenegro. However, the health system in Montenegro can suffer from a shortage of medicines and other essentials. Medical staff do not always speak English. In non-emergency cases, payment may be required and this would normally be made in cash. Therefore, you are advised to take out comprehensive travel insurance, which should also cover medical evacuation.

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 Montenegro 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 are confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) -Swine Flu in Montenegro and one confirmed case of a recent arrival from the UK. At the airport you will be given a questionnaire with more information of the symptoms to be aware of and a request to monitor your health for seven days following arrival. 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 Montenegro. 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.

Natural disasters

Montenegro lies in a seismically active zone and earth tremors are common. Serious earthquakes are less frequent but do occur. The last serious earthquake was, in 1979, resulted in 94 deaths and approximately1000 injuries and caused major structural damage along the Montenegrin coast.

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.

Passports

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

The loss or theft of a British passport should be reported immediately to the local police, from whom you should obtain a report which you will need in order to apply for an Emergency Passport and to exit Montenegro. You should therefore also notify the British Embassy in Podgorica, who can issue you an Emergency Passport (valid for up to seven days and for return journey to UK only). The Embassy cannot issue temporary or full British Passports.

Applications for full passports should be made direct to the British Consulate General in Dusseldorf for production. The waiting period will be approximately two to four weeks, due to the requirement for all new passports to be machine readable and capable of storing biometric information.

For full details on applying for passports please visit http://ukingermany.fco.gov.uk/en/passports/welcome. For further information on passport photos and biometric passports, please visit the United Kingdom Passport Service website at http://www.passport.gov.uk/.

Purchasing property

If you are interested in purchasing property in Montenegro you are strongly advised to seek independent qualified legal advice.

Money

The official currency of Montenegro is the Euro. Credit cards and Travellers’ Cheques are accepted in many of the larger hotels and shops, and ATMs accept international bank cards. Only Bank of England issued bank notes are recognised or exchanged in Montenegro. Scottish and Northern Irish pounds sterling bank notes are not accepted. Serbian Dinars are not accepted, but can be exchanged for Euros.

In 2006 Police in Montenegro have recently seized large amounts of forged Euros. More counterfeit notes may still be in circulation, so you should take care to ensure that notes you receive from sources other than banks and legitimate Bureaus de Change are genuine.

Consular Contact Details

The British Embassy in Podgorica, should be your first point of contact for consular enquiries.