Dominica, Commonwealth of travel advice

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

Travel Summary

• The hurricane season in Dominica normally runs from June to November. You should monitor local and international weather updates. See the Natural Disasters (Hurricanes) section of this advice and Tropical Cyclones for more details.
  
  
• There is no British High Commission in Dominica. For emergency consular assistance you should contact the British High Commission in Bridgetown, Barbados.
  
  
• Around 5,000 British nationals visited Dominica in 2006 (Source: Dominican Immigration). Most visits to Dominica are trouble free. However, you should be aware that cases of robbery and other crimes do occur. See the Crime 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 areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• 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

Around 5,000 British tourists visit Dominica each year (Source: Dominica Immigration) and the vast majority of visits are trouble free. Dominica is a friendly and welcoming country and overall crime rates are relatively low. Despite the relaxed and friendly atmosphere, however, there have been incidents of violent crime including murder. These tend to occur within the local community but can sometimes affect tourists. A British couple were attacked and robbed on their yacht in May 2009.

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 be left, where possible, in safety deposit boxes and hotel safes.

For more general information see Victims of crime.

Political Situation

Dominica Country Profile

Local Travel

Road Travel

Motorists drive on the left in Dominica. Most roads are paved but driving can be difficult due to blind corners, and poor road surfaces lacking grip. Speed limits are posted in kilometres per hour and although there is no enforced limit in rural areas, you should take extra care. Outside of the capital and larger towns roads are unlit, so driving at night can be extremely hazardous.. Caution should be exercised when driving on the main road from Melville Hall airport which is prone to landslides following bad weather and has a number of sheer drops where the road has fallen away. d Driving on this road at night is not recommended as road signs warning of landslides are not visible. Road signs are poor and a map is essential. Pedestrians walk on the roads because of a lack of pavements. In the event of an accident, stop your vehicle and call the police.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Air Travel

You will have to pay a departure tax when leaving Dominica of 54 East Caribbean Dollars (for each traveller aged 12 years or older). The equivalent in US dollars (US$21) is accepted.

Local laws and customs

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.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

British Passport holders do not require visas to visit Dominica and can stay in the country for up to six months.

Entry requirements may change from time to time and should be checked with the Office of the High Commissioner for the Commonwealth of Dominica.

Passport Validity

Your passport should be valid for at least six months.

Return Air Ticket

You must hold a return air ticket. If you fail to do so, you may be refused entry to Dominica.

Foot and mouth disease

You are banned from bringing meat products into Dominica from the United Kingdom in your personal luggage.

Health

You should also monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine flu page on the FCO website. Guidance for Pandemic Flu can be found on the UK Department of Health website.

Dengue Fever occurs in Latin America and the Caribbean throughout the year.

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 Dominica 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 or NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health. page on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK

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. For more general information see Tropical Cyclones.

Earthquakes

Dominica is susceptible to periodic earth tremors.

General

Insurance

We strongly recommend 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.

Here's how we can help when things go wrong.

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.

Passports

Keep a copy of the photopage of your passport and relevant entry stamp in case your documents are stolen.

In the event of loss of your passport, you will need to apply to the Passport Office at the British High Commission, Barbados for a replacement. Urgent applications can be speeded up if you pay courier costs, but even so, the issue of a replacement passport could still take several days.

Cuba travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary (consular assistance figures). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• Human cases of Swine Flu have been reported in Cuba. The Cuban authorities have introduced medical screening for the Swine Flu virus (H1N1) at some airports for passengers arriving in Cuba on international flights. A period of hospitalisation while blood tests for the H1N1 virus are undertaken may be required for people exhibiting flu-like symptoms either on arrival or at any point during their time in Cuba. You can check for updates on the number of cases and their location through the World Health Organisation (WHO) website . The WHO has raised its Pandemic threat alert phase to Level 6. You should monitor local media reports for any developments and contact your tour operator and/or airline to find out the latest information. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can also be obtained on the UK Department of Health website. We encourage you to register with our LOCATE service so that we can keep in touch and provide appropriate level of consular assistance in the event of an emergency.
  
  

• Most visits to Cuba are trouble free. 45 British nationals required consular assistance in Cuba in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (11 cases); hospitalisations (24 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (4 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (47 cases). See the General (Money) section of this advice for more details.
  

• In view of serious accidents that have involved tourists, you should not use mopeds or three-wheel Coco-Taxis when travelling around Cuba. Also, crime is on the increase, most commonly in the form of opportunist theft (loss of travel bags, handbags, etc containing passports and funds).

• You must pay an airport departure tax of 25 Convertible Pesos (CUCs) per person when leaving Cuba. This must be paid in local currency.

• Dengue Fever is endemic to Latin America and the Caribbean and can occur throughout the year. See the Health 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 areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

• 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

Crime is on the increase. Theft from luggage during baggage handling, both on arrival and departure, is common. You should remove all valuables, lock suitcases and consider having them shrink-wrapped before check-in.

You should take all necessary precautions if you are in Centro Havana at night. You should take a taxi to your accommodation rather than walk, even if your accommodation is only a few blocks away.

There are a small number of bogus tour agents/taxis operating at the airports and around old Havana. You should not travel with anyone other than your recognised tour operator. If you need to take a taxi, ensure it is a registered one and not a private vehicle.

Car-related crime and mugging incidents are increasing, not only in Havana but Santiago and other areas less frequented by tourists. There have been attacks on foreigners using hire cars after staged punctures and by bogus hitch-hikers. Do not pick people up; if you get a puncture in a lonely spot, drive on several kilometres preferably to a town, before stopping.

Beware of pickpockets and bag-snatchers, especially in the area of Old Havana, on buses/trains, at major tourist sites and in nightclubs. Don’t carry large amounts of cash when away from your hotel; avoid wearing ostentatious/expensive jewellery; leave travellers' cheques, credit cards, passports and other important documents in a safe deposit or similar at your hotel. If you pick up hitch-hikers, ensure you have no valuables or important documentation temptingly within reach. You should carry a copy of your passport and not the original, which should be locked away with other valuables.

Beware of thefts from rooms, particularly in private guest houses (‘casas particulares’).

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Cuba Country Profile

On 19 February 2008 Fidel Castro announced his retirement and his brother Raúl Castro was elected to the Presidency by the Cuban National Assembly on 24 February 2008. The political situation remains calm at present.

Cuba is a one-party state. There is a high level of social control and a strong police presence. There are widespread restrictions on freedom of speech, association and assembly for Cuban nationals. Political demonstrations or gatherings not sanctioned by the government may be broken up and should be avoided.

Local Travel

Road Travel

A valid UK driving licence is required to drive and/or rent a car in Cuba. If you decide to rent a car in Cuba, you should ensure that the insurance which is provided with the car, includes local third party insurance cover. All drivers and passengers of motorcycles and scooters are required by law to wear a crash helmet.

In view of serious accidents that have involved tourists, you should not use mopeds or three wheel Coco-Taxis for travel around Cuba.

Driving standards are variable. Many vehicles, including public transport, suffer from lack of maintenance and roads are poorly lit and sign-posted. Beware of cyclists, potholes and cars that stop without warning to pick up hitch-hikers.

You should avoid driving by night; animals, unlit vehicles and other hazards are a real danger.

The Cuban police are cracking down on drink driving.

If you have a traffic accident where someone is killed or injured, the police investigation may take several months during which time the driver will normally not be allowed to leave Cuba. There is no guarantee that criminal compensation payments will be made. If convicted of killing someone in a road traffic accident, the standard punishment is at least two years in jail. If the worst happens and you do have a serious accident, you should contact the British Embassy as soon as possible.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Air Travel

You must pay an airport departure tax of 25 Convertible Pesos (CUCs) per person when leaving Cuba. This must be paid in local currency.

You should consider using baggage plastic-wrapping facilities when travelling to and from Cuba as there have been instances of pilfering from luggage, even if locked, at Cuban airports on arrival and departure.

In 2007 the Cuban authorities averted attempts by Cuban asylum seekers to leave the country by hijacking an internal passenger aircraft. The Cuban Authorities are known to restrict the amount of fuel on aircraft on internal flights to prevent hijacks.

There are concerns about standards of maintenance of public transport and we recommend against internal air travel unless on flights recommended by or operated on behalf of recognised international tour operators.

For more general information see Airline Security.

Local laws and customs

Cuba is increasingly being used as a transit country for drugs destined for Europe. Cuban courts are handing out very severe penalties (in excess of twenty years) for drugs related offences. Pack all luggage yourself and don’t carry any items that do not belong to you.

Cuba prohibits the import of all meat products. The import of fruit is normally banned too. If you arrive in Cuba with any of the above you will have your goods confiscated and destroyed on arrival.

Avoid military zones and other restricted areas that are not always well sign-posted. Be particularly careful when taking photographs or video film.

The Cuban Authorities take a serious view of any breach of their immigration rules, in some cases those who overstay are detained by Immigration on departure and held in custody until reports are received on their activities whilst in the country.

Acceptance of gay relationships is more widespread than in the past. However, there are few places where gays can socialise openly and same-sex couples - particularly if one partner is Cuban - should be careful about public displays of affection, which can lead to unwelcome attention from the police and local authorities.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

All British nationals require a visa to enter Cuba. You need a visa before you travel and you should contact the Cuban Embassy in London for further information on entry requirements in good time.

You should get the correct visa for the purpose of your visit. As well as tourist visas, there are other visa categories for different types of visitors.

Dual nationals must contact the Cuban Embassy in London for for advice on entry requirements before travelling.

Passport validity

Your passport must be valid for six months after departure from Cuba.

Customs Regulations

Electrical items with heavy power consumption such as travel irons and kettles may be confiscated upon entry to Cuba. Global Positioning Systems (GPSs) are also subject to import requirements and may be confiscated. Such confiscated items are normally returned upon departure. For more information on Cuban Customs regulations currently in force, including lists of prohibited and regulated items, please visit the Cuban Customs Administration website.

Health

There have been reports of outbreaks of dengue fever and hemorrhagic conjunctivitis in cuba. The Cuban authorities are taking steps to control the mosquito that transmits dengue fever to humans and are advising people to wash their hands frequently to prevent the spread of conjunctivitis.

Human cases of Swine Flu have been reported in Cuba. The Cuban authorities have introduced medical screening for the Swine Flu virus (H1N1) at some airports for passengers arriving in Cuba on international flights. A period of hospitalisation while blood tests for the H1N1 virus are undertaken may be required for people exhibiting flu-like symptoms either on arrival or at any point during their time in Cuba. The World Health Organisation has raised its Pandemic threat alert phase to Level 6. You can check for updates on the number of cases and their location through the World Health Organisation website. You should monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. You should contact your tour operator and/or airline to find out the latest information. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can also be obtained on the UK Department of Health website.

The medical facilities in Havana are better than those available elsewhere in the country, but it is sometimes necessary to medically evacuate those who require urgent specialist care. This can be very expensive so you should ensure that your medical insurance covers you for this. If you require medical treatment you will be expected to pay in hard currency; a basic hospital stay can cost as much as £200 per day plus medical expenses.

Many medicines are unavailable in Cuba so you should bring any prescription drugs you take regularly. A copy of the prescription and a letter from your doctor explaining your condition can be helpful at customs.

Hepatitis A is common to Cuba, particularly in the summer. You should be aware that treatment is not readily available. Viral meningitis occasionally breaks out both in Havana and in other provinces of Cuba.

Dengue Fever is common to Latin America and the Caribbean and can occur throughout the year. The Cuban authorities are taking measures to eradicate the mosquito which transmits the disease to humans.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 6,200 adults aged 15 or over in Cuba 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 Cuba and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

Natural disasters

The hurricane season in Cuba normally runs from June to November. See Tropical Cyclones for more details.

Hurricane Gustav passed over the western Provinces of Cuba and Isla de Juventud during the afternoon and evening on Saturday 30 August 2008 causing extensive damage. Hurricane Ike struck Cuba a week later on 7 and 8 September 2008 and caused considerable damage in many parts of the country but particularly in the Provinces of Holguin (including the resort of Guardalavaca) and Pinar del Rio (including the town of Vinales).

Hurricane Paloma hit the southern coast of Cuba in the early morning of 9 November as a Category 3 hurricane and weakened rapidly to a tropical storm. We no longer advise against all but essential travel to the southern part of the Camaguey region.

You should monitor local and international weather updates from the World Meteorological Organisation and the National Hurricane Centre. Please also see Tropical Cyclones for more detailed information about what to do if you are caught up in a hurricane.

Good warning is given and due precautions must be taken but in the aftermath power, communications and water supplies can be disrupted for a week or more. Even in holiday resorts, utility services cannot be constantly guaranteed. Damage to infrastructure in affected areas can take some time to be repaired. In the event of extreme weather conditions flights to and from Cuba could be delayed or cancelled.

General

Insurance

We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. This should cover medical evacuation by air ambulance. 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.

You should keep a copy of the photo page of your passport in case your documents are stolen.

Travelling with babies

Baby food, disposable nappies etc. are patchily available in Havana and normally unavailable in the rest of Cuba; if you are bringing a baby it is best to come self-sufficient.

Money

You should check with your bank before you leave the UK to confirm that your debit/credit/cashpoint cards will work and will be accepted in Cuba. If your bank cannot confirm this then you should bring suitable Sterling or Euro alternatives, preferably in the form of travellers’ cheques. You should also be aware that there are virtually no cash-points available for drawing cash against Cirrus or Switch cards in Cuba. You should also be aware that Scottish and Northern Irish bank notes/coins cannot be exchanged in Cuba.

US Dollars are no longer accepted in Cuba, and you will be charged 10% commission to exchange them. Following the revaluation of the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC) in March 2005, credit card transactions, including cash withdrawals from ATM machines, are subject to local commission charges of between 11%-13%.

American Express travellers' cheques are no longer accepted in Cuba. Travellers' cheques and/or credit cards drawn on all other American banks are also not accepted in Cuba.

The use of the CUCs to include the tourist industry has inevitably meant an increase in the number of forged CUC banknotes of all denominations but in particular $100.00. You are strongly advised not to change money anywhere other than at the airport Cadecas, hotel exchange bureaux or banks. Individuals offering exchange facilities to avoid queues should be avoided, and where possible small denomination bills should be requested.

Costa Rica travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Health section (removal of swine flu). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• Around 47,000 British nationals visit Costa Rica every year (Source: Institute of Tourism Costa Rica). Most visits are trouble-free. 23 British nationals required consular assistance in Costa Rica in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (2 cases); hospitalisations (4 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (7 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (81 cases)..
  
  
• Incidents of violent crime against tourists are increasing.
  
  
• 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.
  
  
• The rainy season in Costa Rica normally runs from May to November, coinciding with the hurricane season in the Caribbean. Earthquakes are also common in Costa Rica. See the Natural Disasters (Hurricanes/Floodings and Earthquakes and Volcanic Eruptions) section and Tropical Cyclones of this advice for more details.
  
  
• We strongly 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 a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

There has been a continuing increase in crime against tourists over the past few years in Costa Rica. Opportunistic theft of personal belongings, passports and travel documents is the main problem. However, there has also been an increase in incidents of violent crime against tourists. Gang muggings and armed robberies can occur even in daylight on busy streets.

You can reduce the risk of becoming a victim:

• Do not wear jewellery or carry large amounts of cash. Avoid street money-changers. And avoid stopping in poorly lit or low-populated areas to make telephone calls or seek directions.
• Watch your belongings carefully at all times and in all places.
• Be particularly careful of your belongings when staying in hostels and hotels. It is important that you lock valuable belongings, passports and travel documents in hotel safes where possible. You should only leave your belongings in a safe for which you retain control of the key. Keep the key on your person.
• You should be vigilant when using buses. Theft of bags from overhead compartments inside buses is a common problem and efficiently carried out. Thieves have simple but effective ways of distracting a target.
• Be particularly watchful of your valuables at the beach and in popular tourist destinations.
• Avoid leaving unattended drinks in bars and places of entertainment. There have been reports of "spiked" drinks resulting in assault and theft.
• Only take official taxis. Avoid using unofficial taxis – ‘taxi piratas’ - as several violent incidents involving tourists have been reported. Official taxis are red with a triangular sticker and plastic box on the roof with the name and number of the taxi company. Where possible use radio-dispatched taxis. When getting into a taxi, ensure that the driver's identification number, name and photograph are clearly visible on the dashboard, and ensure that the driver indicates the meter.

Personal attacks, including rape and other sexual offences, are still infrequent in Costa Rica, but there has been increasing occurrences in the last couple of years. You are advised to maintain at least the same level of personal security awareness as in the UK We strongly advise lone visitors, in particular, never to accept lifts from strangers or passing acquaintances at any time. For more general information see Rape and Sexual Assault Abroad.

Theft of, and from, cars is common. Be particularly careful about leaving your valuables in hire cars and avoid leaving your belongings visible from outside the car. It is a good idea to park in paid car parks, which have an attendant watching your vehicle. Otherwise, park in well-lit or busy areas. Use the car alarm, if fitted. There have been incidents where slashed tyres have given thieves the opportunity to "assist" in changing tyres, while an accomplice steals from the car. There has also been an increase in armed attacks on tourists leaving the airport in hire cars.

There has also been an increase in the number of short-term and opportunistic kidnapping, called "express kidnapping", occurring in Costa Rica. Victims are normally selected at random and are forced at gunpoint to withdraw money from ATMs. Once the ransom is paid the victim is usually quickly released.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Costa Rica Country Profile

Local Travel

If you are visiting jungle areas you should be accompanied by experienced local guides.

If visiting volcanoes please pay strict attention to notices prohibiting entry to dangerous areas. When there is the danger of eruptions the national park is closed to visitors until the danger has passed.

Emergency Contact Numbers:

Police Emergency - 911

Ambulance – 911 or 128
Fire Service – 911 or 118

Police Investigative Service – 911 or 2221-5337

Road Travel

You can drive in Costa Rica on an UK Driving Licence or an International Driving Licence.

Road conditions are generally good on main routes, although potholes caused by heavy rains in the wet season are common. Landslides in the wet season, which block the road between San José and Guapiles on the way to Limón are frequent and can cause delays. However, they are cleared away quickly and there are longer alternative routes. Drivers should be cautious when approaching bridges as these are often only one-way, even if the road is two-way.

The standard of driving is lower than in the UK. Accidents in Costa Rica are often caused by speeding or overtaking irresponsibly. You should resist the temptation to overtake without clear visibility and adhere to speed limits, as traffic police are strict. If you have a collision when driving a car you must not move the vehicle, not even to the side of the road, until the traffic police have come to inspect it. The Traffic Police (Transito) and the Insurance Investigator (INS) must come to the scene of the accident to complete accident reports.

Traffic Police (Transito) – 222-9330 or 222-9245

Insurance Investigator (INS) – 800-800-8000

However, you should be aware that there have been instances of deliberate traffic accidents as a means of stopping vehicles in Costa Rica, with the intention of committing robberies or other crimes against the victims. If you have reason to suspect that the collision was a deliberate act by another driver to make you stop, consider driving on until you reach a place eg a police station or a garage where it would be safer to stop. In such circumstances it is essential that you are ready to explain your actions to the traffic authorities mentioned above.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Swimming

You should take special care when swimming from all beaches in Costa Rica. Rip tides are very common. There are normally no lifeguards. You should seek reliable local advice. You should also be aware that there has been a considerable increase in the numbers of crocodiles seen along the Pacific Coast near the beaches popular with surfers (from Playa Azul down to Playa Esterillos) and there were two reported attacks in September 2008.

Sea and River Travel

Safety features on small boats are not always of a good standard. If you plan white water rafting, you should arrange this with an established company.

For more general information see River and Sea Safety.

Local laws and customs

You should not get involved with drugs of any kind in any way as drug trafficking is dealt with severely. Despite what people may say, the authorities are well trained and perceptive. The minimum sentence is eight years imprisonment.

For more general information for different types of travellers see our You trip page.

Entry requirements

Visas

British nationals do not require a visa to enter Costa Rica and can stay as visitors for up to three months. Passports should have a validity of more than six months from the date of entry. If a longer stay is required or for employment, the Costa Rican Embassy should be contacted for advice. The immigration authorities are strict about detaining foreigners who are undocumented or tourists who have overstayed.

Costa Rican Immigration authorities now require all foreign nationals applying for residency to register with their respective Embassy. See Registration section below for further details on how to register through Locate. Printed confirmation of this registration will be accepted by the Costa Rican authorities.

Passport validity

Passports should have a validity of more than six months from the date of entry.

Yellow Fever requirements

All visitors to Costa Rica arriving from any of the following countries (Colombia, Brazil, Venezuela, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, French Guyana, Angola, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, Cameroon, Nigeria, Benin, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, Gambia and Sudan) are now required to produce an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis documenting yellow fever vaccination before entry to Costa Rica will be granted. Certificates are valid 10 days after the date of vaccination.

Travelling with children

Under Costa Rican law, children under the age of 18 born in Costa Rica are automatically considered to be Costa Rican citizens, even if travelling on a British passport. Notarised written consent from both parents, or a Costa Rican passport, is required in order to leave Costa Rica. The nearest Costa Rican Embassy or Consulate should be contacted for further information on laws regarding the international travel of Costa Rican children.

Health

There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website. Guidance about pandemic flu is available through the UK Department of Health.

Medical care in Costa Rica is of a high standard. Only emergency medical treatment is available without charge for visitors.

Malaria is endemic close to banana growing areas. Dengue Fever is endemic to Latin America and the Caribbean and can occur throughout the year. San Jose and the Central Valley can be particularly affected. There is no vaccine or immunisation to prevent dengue fever and you should take usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Malaria is also common in Costa Rica, especially in areas close to banana growing areas. In October and November 2006, there was a significant increase in the number of cases reported in Limon Province. There have been more cases, reported in June 2008, in areas around Laurel close to the border with Panama.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 9,600 adults aged 15 or over in Costa Rica were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 0.4% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Costa Rica 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/Floodings

The rainy season in Costa Rica normally runs from May to November, coinciding with the hurricane season in the Caribbean. Flooding can occur and heavy rains or hurricanes can cause landslides (though roads are normally cleared quickly). In December 2008 there was severe flooding in the southern Caribbean coast (provinces of Limon and Talamanca), particularly in the areas alongside the border with Panama. Heavy rainfall and strong winds were experienced over parts of the country following Tropical Storm Alma in May 2008, resulting in four fatalities and damage to many homes and roads.

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

Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions

There is the possibility in Costa Rica of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. An earthquake of magnitude 6.1 struck central Costa Rica, on 8 January 2009. The epicentre was in Alajuela Province, 37km north of the city of San Jose. On 11 March 2009 there were 3 earthquakes measuring between 5.2 and 6.0 just off the Pacific coast near Golfito.

Costa Rica has 16 volcanoes, four of which are considered active (Arenal, Poás, Irazú and Rincón de la Vieja). Although there has not been serious or widespread damage caused by any of these for many years the possibility of eruptions always exists. You should follow instructions in the national parks. Do not go into the prohibited areas, which are clearly signposted. Any warnings should be heeded seriously.

General

Insurance

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

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

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

From 9 November 2009 applications for British passports should be sent to the UK Passport Service for the Americas & Caribbean in the British Embassy in Washington. The British Embassy in San José will continue to issue Emergency Passports for people who need to travel urgently.

Travelling to, or via, the USA

Since many trips to Costa Rica are made via the United States, it is important to note that with effect from 26 October 2004, all passport holders who wish to enter the US under the Visa Waiver Programme (See Entry Requirements in the Travel Advice for the USA) must present an individual machine-readable passport. Travellers without a machine-readable passport must obtain a non-immigrant visa from the nearest US Embassy prior to travel. Should you need to replace your passport in Costa Rica, you should apply to the British Embassy. For further details, in particular concerning children travelling on a parent's passport, please contact the US Embassy.

Cayman Islands ( British Overseas Territory ) travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary (consular assistance figures). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• There confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) (Swine Flu) in the Cayman Islands. You can check for updates on the number of cases and their location through the Public Health Department of the Cayman Islands. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website has further details. You should also monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website.
  
  
• The Cayman Islands is a British Overseas Territory. There is no formal British diplomatic or consular representation in the Cayman Islands and the local authorities deal with all requests for consular assistance. 9 British nationals required consular assistance in the Cayman Islands in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (2 cases); hospitalisations (0 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (7 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (2 cases).See General section of this travel advice for more details.
  
  
• The hurricane season in the Cayman Islands normally runs from June to November. See the Natural Disasters (Tropical Cyclones) section of this advice and Tropical Cyclones 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 areas, including those 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 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 Cayman Islands have a relatively low crime rate. Nevertheless, you should take the usual sensible precautions in respect of your personal safety and belongings. Do not leave valuables lying about. Keep them in a hotel or other safety deposit box.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Cayman Islands Country Profile

The elections of 20 May 2009 resulted in a change of government with the opposition United Democratic Party ousting the People’s Progressive Movement. The next elections are due to be held in 2013.

Local Travel

Road Travel

The only form of local public transport is minibuses which are safe to use but run only on the main routes. For other journeys, taxis are readily available or you can hire a car. If hiring a vehicle, remember to drive on the left, as in the UK. Observe the speed limits, wear your seat belt at all times and do not drink and drive.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Air Travel

Since September 2001, all airlines require earlier check-in times for passengers and luggage. Both hold-loaded and carry-on luggage is subject to being hand-searched. You should allow extra time at the airport and should check with the individual airline on the recommended check-in time for your flight.

Local laws and customs

There are harsh penalties for those caught with drugs of any kind. A number of British nationals have been arrested in the past, attempting to smuggle marijuana on British Airways flights to London. As a consequence, these flights are still being closely monitored by the local customs authorities.

You should observe the customs regulations on the importation and exportation of agricultural products and the protection of marine and animal life. There are a number of marine and animal specimens that may not be taken from the islands. If in doubt, please check with the customs office prior to the purchase, importation or exportation of such items.

For those returning to the UK, please observe the UK Customs rules on the illegal importation of meat and animal products.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

British nationals do not need a tourist visa to visit the Cayman Islands. If you are not a British national, you may need a visa. For more information, you should contact the Identity and Passport Service at the Home Office on 020 7901 2334 from 1000 to 1600 GMT (Mon-Fri).

Passport validity

A full British passport of at least six months' validity is required for all British nationals visiting the Cayman Islands.

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. Entry requirements for other nationalities can be found on the Cayman Islands Government website.

Health

There is a relatively new and well-equipped hospital on Grand Cayman in the capital George Town and a smaller facility, Faith Hospital, on Cayman Brac, which can cope with most routine medical and dental problems. You should be aware that even the most remedial treatment is expensive and that more serious cases will normally be stabilised here before being transferred to Miami.

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.

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 Cayman 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 NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

A (H1N1) - Swine Flu

There are confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) (Swine Flu) in the Cayman Islands. You can check for updates on the number of cases and their location through the Public Health Department of the Cayman Islands. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at has further details. You should also monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

Natural disasters

Hurricanes

The hurricane season in the Cayman Islands 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 general information see Tropical Cyclones.

For more information on the British humanitarian response to Hurricane Ivan please check the following website: British humanitarian response.

Earthquakes

The Cayman Islands has also experienced earthquakes in recent years. The largest, measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale and with an epi centre 20miles south-southeast of the capital George Town, struck the Cayman Islands on 14 December but caused no serious damage or injuries. Smaller aftershocks were experienced: the largest of those, measuring4.4 on the Richter scale, was on 21 December 2004.

General

Insurance

There is no National Health Service in the Cayman Islands and even the most remedial medical treatment is expensive. We advise you to take out adequate travel and medical insurance before travelling. This must cover air ambulance and third country (USA) medical treatment. 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.

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.

Consular Assistance

The Cayman Islands is a British Overseas Territory in which there is no formal British Diplomatic or Consular Representation.

The Governor’s Office will assist British nationals in cases of genuine emergency wherever possible, but you should be aware that the full range of Consular Services offered by a Diplomatic or Consular mission cannot be provided.

Renewing or replacing your Passport

You should take particular care to safeguard British passports as these cannot be renewed or replaced in the Cayman Islands. You should report the theft or loss of a British passport immediately to the police (from whom a written report must be obtained). In a genuine emergency, the Cayman Islands Passport Office may be able to issue an Emergency Passport.

From 3 August 2009, persons wishing to apply for a full validity British Citizen passport, including first passport issues, should do so by sending their applications by courier or registered post to the UK Passport Service Centre in Washington D.C. This will be the new passport production centre for the Cayman Islands and the region.

The UK Passport Service Centre for the Americas and Caribbean

British Embassy
19 Observatory Circle, NW
Washington, DC 20008
USA

Further information, guidance and copies of application forms can be obtained online at: www.ukinusa.fco.gov.uk

This change does not affect applications for British Overseas Territories Citizen passports, which will continue to be processed by the Cayman Islands Passport Office as before.

Money

All major credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants and local shops. The local currency is the Cayman Islands Dollar (CI$) however the US dollar is widely accepted throughout the islands. The CI$ is fixed to the US dollar at $1.25 US Dollars equals $1.00 Cayman Island Dollar.

Canada travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with an amendment to the Summary and the Health section (Influenza A (H1N1) – Swine Flu). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• There have been human cases of the A (H1N1) virus (swine flu) in Canada, including confirmed deaths. You should check for updates on the number of cases and their location through the Public Health Agency of Canada . The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website has further details. In addition, you should monitor local media reports for any developments. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website. Guidance about pandemic flu is available through the UK Department of Health .
  
  
• 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 for more details.
  
  
• Around 650,000 British nationals visit Canada each year (Source: Statistics Canada). Most visits are trouble free. 239 British nationals required consular assistance in Canada in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (62 cases); hospitalisations (13 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (120 cases) including for the smuggling of Khat, which is illegal in Canada. During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (495 cases).
  
  
• Canada can experience severe weather at different times of the year. You should monitor local news and weather reports. For more information and advice on current weateplease visit Environment Canada. Please also see the Local Travel and Natural Disasters sections of this advice for more details.
  
  
• If you intend to travel on to the United States you should check the entry requirements of the US authorities. See the advice for the United States Travel 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 the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.
  
  
• Register with our LOCATE service to tell us where you’re travelling to so our crisis staff at the British High Commission and Consulates-General can provide better assistance in an emergency such as a terrorist attack or a natural disaster. The online form can be found at: https://www.locate.fco.gov.uk/locateportal/
  

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is an underlying threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. The Canadian authorities have carried out a number of arrests as a result of investigations into terrorist networks.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

You should and take basic precautions. Bear in mind the following:

• If staying in a hotel, do not leave your door open at any time;
  
• Do not leave your handbag or luggage unattended in reception or dining areas as thieves often target tourist hotels;
  
• Keep passports, tickets and large sums of cash in a safety deposit box or hotel safe;
  
• Avoid leaving luggage on display in cars.
  

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Canada Country Profile

Local Travel

For detailed information on road conditions throughout Canada, please see the Government of Canada Website or the Canadian Automobile Association both of which provide tips for travelling safely on Canadian roads.

Road Travel

All forms of public transport are generally excellent. Be aware that each province and territory has the authority to establish its own traffic and safety laws. In 2007 there were 2,847 road deaths in Canada (source: DfT). This equates to 8.4 road deaths per 100,000 of population and compares to the UK average of 5.0 road deaths per 100,000 of population in 2007.

Canadians drive on the right side of the road. Seat belts are compulsory. Right turns on red lights are permitted except in some parts of Quebec. You should not drink and drive.

You should apply for an International Driving Permit from either the AA, the RAC, RSAC or Green Flag Motoring Assistance Recovery Club. This will allow you to drive in Canada and hire a car. Carry both this Permit and your UK driving licence with you whilst driving as being stopped without these documents may result in a fine. Distances and speed limits are posted in metric (usually 100 km/h or 60 mph on highways and 50 km/h or 30 mph in towns and cities).

You should take out full insurance cover if you intend to rent a vehicle.

Obey speed limits and take extra care when travelling on country roads and be aware of possible encounters with wild animals.

Winter driving conditions in Canada can be extreme. You should monitor local news and weather broadcasts and take advice before driving in heavy winter conditions.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Air Travel

Ensure that for all flights (other than your UK departure flight), you call the airline locally to reconfirm your flight times at least 48 hours prior to departure. You should note that the majority of airlines are continuing to recommend up to a 3-hour check-in for international departures due to the increased security.

For more general information see Airline Security.

Local laws and customs

You should not attempt to carry meat, animal or dairy products into Canada at any time without declaring these products to Canada Customs. Banned food products will be confiscated and you could be subjected to severe penalties. Further information can be obtained from: Canadian Food Inspection Agency

Canada Customs require you to declare if you intend to visit a farm within 14 days of arrival.

The plant Qhat (Khat), although legal in the UK, is illegal in Canada. You should not attempt to bring this plant into Canada. Penalties for possession of Qhat include imprisonment for up to 10 years.

For more information on custom regulations in Canada check: Canadian Border Services Agency

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

Entry requirements

Visas are not generally required for British Citizens visiting Canada for short periods. However, other categories of British nationals should check requirements before making firm plans. If in any doubt contact the Visa Section of the Canadian High Commission.

Passport Validity

It is recommended that you should have a passport with a minimum of six months validity remaining.

Citizenship and Immigration Canada also provides complete and up-to-date information on the entry requirements and status of travel in Canada.

Travelling with children

If you are travelling with children, and where only one parent is present, you should bear in mind that it is advisable to carry a letter of consent from the non-travelling parent. Immigration officers have the right to question children using simple and appropriate language, to establish if there are any child abduction concerns. There is discretion, but this depends on the attitude of the accompanying parent. A letter of consent will help to dispel potential concerns, and should refer to the travel details in question and provide the necessary agreement to the visit.

Travelling to the United States

If you intend to travel on to the United States you should check the entry requirements of the US authorities (see the US section of the FCO’s Travel Advice).

Health

Canadian hospitals and medical services are generally very good. However, the cost of medical treatment can be very expensive and there are no special arrangements for British visitors. The British High Commission and Consulates-General cannot assist with medical expenses either.

Swine Flu

Human cases of swine influenza have been reported in certain areas of Canada. You should check for updates on the number of cases and their location through the Public Health Agency of Canada. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its pandemic threat alert Phase to Level 5. The WHO website has further details. In addition, you should monitor local media reports for any developments. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website. Guidance about pandemic flu is available through the UK Department of Health.

Rabies is a present in most of Canada and can be spread by small animals such as racoon's and bats. You should seek urgent medical advice if bitten by a wild animal.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 73,000 adults aged 15 or over in Canada were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 0.4% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

Additional advice can also be found on the information for travellers’ page on Health Canada's website.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Canada and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on endemic diseases, health outbreaks and vaccination requirements for Canada you should check the websites of the NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland’s Fit for Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general information see Travel Health.

Natural disasters

Winter Conditions

During the winter highways are often closed in Alberta, British Colombia and other Provinces by avalanches.

During the winter highways are often closed in Alberta and British Colombia by avalanches.

Earthquakes

There is an earthquake risk on the west coast.

Thunderstorms

Summer thunderstorms are fairly frequent in most parts of Canada. Unfortunately, a small number of these intensify becoming severe and causing property damage, and threaten lives.

Tornadoes

Tornadoes can occur almost anywhere in Canada. May to September are the main tornado months with the peak season in June and early July in southern Ontario, Alberta, south eastern Quebec, and a band stretching from southern Saskatchewan and Manitoba through to Thunder Bay. The interior of British Columbia and western New Brunswick may also experience tornadoes. You should monitor local and international weather updates on local television and radio and follow any instructions from Canadian officials or law enforcement personnel. You can also access the National Hurricane Centre for updates.

Forest Fires

Forest fires can break out at anytime, regardless of the season. In the grasslands and forests of western Canada the fire hazard is frequently higher. Generally Canada has cold dry winters and warm dry summers and you should heed local warnings and monitor news bulletins for latest details on local outbreaks.

For more information visit Environment Canada at their website.

General

Insurance

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

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

Registration

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

If your passport has been lost or stolen, contact the local police and the nearest British High Commission or Consulate immediately.

Canadian cities have a "911" emergency telephone service. If this does not work, simply dial "0" and ask the operator to connect you to the police or medical services. There is no charge for emergency calls placed from a public pay phone.

Packages holidays

If you are on a package holiday you should travel without fail on the specified return date. Otherwise you may have to purchase a return ticket.

For complete tourist information contact the Canadian National Tourist Organisation via their website.

British Virgin Islands ( British Overseas Territory ) travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary (consular assistance figures). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• The hurricane season in the British VirginIslands normally runs from June to November. See the Natural Disasters section of this advice and tropical cyclones page of the FCO Website for more details.
  
  
• There is one confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) (Swine Flu) in the British Virgin Islands. You can check for updates on the number of cases and their location through the Department of Disaster Management. The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase has been raised to Level 6. The WHO website has further details. You should also monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated swine flu page on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website.
  
  
• The British Virgin Islands (BVI) is a British Overseas Territory. There is no formal British diplomatic or consular representation in the BVI and the local authorities deal with all requests for consular assistance. 7 British nationals required consular assistance in the British Virgin Islands in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (2 cases); hospitalisations (3 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (0 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (0 cases). See the General (Consular assistance) section of this travel advice gives you more information about this.
  
  
• The crime rate is low, but you should take sensible precautions against petty crime.
  
  
• You should ensure your safety at sea and on the roads. See the Road and Sea Travel sections 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 areas, including those 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 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

Although the crime rate is very low, you should take sensible precautions against petty crime. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and use hotel safety deposit facilities to safeguard valuables and travel documents. Never leave anything valuable unattended on the beach.

For more general information see victims of crime abroad.

Political situation

British Virgin Islands Country Profile

Local travel

There are regular ferry services between Tortola and its sister islands of Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke, and also to the US Virgin Islands.

Road travel

Driving conditions can be hazardous, due to steep and narrow mountain roads, and poor driving standards.

Self-drive cars can be hired locally; a temporary driving permit or a local driving licence is required before driving. Cars are left-hand drive, and vehicles drive on the left as in the UK. Standard taxi fares exist for most destinations, but it is sensible to clarify the fare with the driver beforehand.

For more general information see driving abroad.

Sea travel

The majority of visitors to the BVI participate in some form of water sports activities. The rate of accidents in and on the water is very low, but they do occur. Take care not to over-exert yourself, particularly if you are unaccustomed to swimming in the open sea or are unfit. Many accidents involve the consumption of alcohol to some degree. Fear and dehydration exaggerate the effects of alcohol, so care should be taken if you, or someone you know, have been drinking. Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR) respond to emergencies at sea.

For more general information see river and sea safety.

Local laws and customs

You should not have any involvement with illegal drugs, including marijuana. Possession of even small quantities of illegal drugs can lead to large fines or imprisonment. Drug trafficking is a serious offence. You should pack all your luggage yourself and you should not carry items that do not belong to you.

You should observe the customs regulations on the importation and exportation of agricultural products and the protection of marine and animal life. There are a number of marine and animal specimens that may not be taken from the island. If in doubt you should check with the local customs authorities prior to the purchase, importation or exportation of such items.

Recreational or commercial fishing without the correct permit carries steep penalties. A temporary permit can be obtained from the Ministry of Natural Resources & Labour or the Department of Conservation & Fisheries:

Ministry of Natural Resources & Labour
Administration Complex
Road Town
Tortola
Tel: (284) 468-3701 ext 2147
Fax: (284) 494-2499

Department of Conservation and Fisheries,
The Quastisky Building
PO Box 3323
Road Town, Tortola.
Tel: (284) 494-5681/3429 or (284) 468-3701 ext 5555/1
Fax: (284) 494-2670

Spear fishing is not permitted in the BVI. The use of SCUBA equipment to capture or remove any marine animal or coral is against the law. Fishing within the boundaries of any marine park is strictly forbidden.

For those returning to the UK, please observe the UK Customs and Excise rules on the illegal importation of meat and animal products.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

British nationals do not need visas to visit the BVI. It is normal practice for BVI Immigration to issue you with a one-month entry stamp on arrival. You can then apply for an extension for up to six months. You may be required to provide evidence (e.g. an onward ticket) of your plans to leave the BVI at the end of your stay.

If you are not a British national, you may need a visa to visit the BVI. For more information, you should contact the Identity and Passport Service at the Home Office on 020 7901 2334 from 1000 to 1600 GMT (Mon-Fri), or the BVI Government Visa Unit.

Visa Unit
Civil Registry & Passport Office
Central Administration Complex
Road Town
Tortola
BVI
Tel: + 1 284 494 3701 ext 3035
Fax: + 1 284 494 4435
Email: BVIvisas@gov.vg_or_sbenn@gov.vg

All other immigration matters, including work permits, should be directed to the BVI authorities.

Immigration Department

Chief Immigration Officer
Government Offices
Road Town
Tortola
BVI
Tel: 001 284 494-3471 or 001 284 468-3701 ext 4700/4770

Fax: 001 284 494-4399

Labour Department

Geneva Place

Road Town

Tortola

BVI

Tel: 001 284 468 3701 ext 4708-4713 or 001 284 494 3451

Fax: 001 284 494 3027

Passport validity

All persons entering the BVI must have a valid passport with at least six months left on it.

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 is one confirmed human case of A (H1N1) (Swine Flu) in the British Virgin Islands. You can check for updates on the number ofcases and their location throught the British Virgin Islands'Department of Disaster Management at www.bviddm.com. The World HealthOrganisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to level 6. The WHO website has further details. You should also monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the Department of Health website.

There is only one hospital in the BVI and medical facilities are limited. Complex medical problems are frequently referred to hospitals in the US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, or the mainland USA. The US visa waiver scheme does not apply to one-off charter flights. Special arrangements have to be made for any non-US visa holder who is medically evacuated by charter flight.

The dengue mosquito is found in BVI, and you should take normal precautions against mosquito bites.

There is no hyperbaric chamber in the BVI. Patients requiring treatment for decompression illness are transferred to St John, US Virgin Islands. Most sensitive medical cases are transferred to San Juan, Puerto Rico.

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 BVI 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 cases of A (H1N1) (Swine Flu) in the British Virgin Islands. You can check for updates on the number of cases and their location through the British Virgin Islands' Department of Disaster Management at www.bviddm.com. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. You should also monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.

Natural disasters

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. For more general information see Tropical Cyclones.

The BVI has experienced several minor earthquakes in recent years and also susceptible to flooding.

General

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. This should cover repatriation costs to the USA and medical treatment while there. 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.

Consular assistance

The Governor’s Office will assist British nationals in genuine emergencies wherever possible, but this does not cover the full range of consular services.

Renewing or replacing your Passport

You should take particular care to safeguard British passports as these cannot be renewed or replaced in BVI. You should report the theft or loss of a British passport immediately to the police (from whom a written report must be obtained). In a genuine emergency, the BVI Civil Registry and Passport Office (+1 284 494-3701 ext 3035/3036) may be able to issue an Emergency Travel Document (not valid for travel through the United States of America).

From 3 August 2009, residents of the British Virgin Islands, including first passport issues, who wish to apply for a passport should do so by sending their applications by courier or registered post to the UK Passport Service Centre in Washington D.C. This will be the new passport production centre for the British Virgin Islands and the region.

The mailing address is:
The UK Passport Service Centre for the Americas and Caribbean
British Embassy
19 Observatory Circle, NW
Washington, DC 20008
USA

Further information, guidance and copies of application forms can be obtained online at www.ukinusa.fco.gov.uk or www.ukinbarbados.fco.gov.uk.

This change does not affect applications for British Overseas Territories Citizen passports, which will continue to be processed by the Civil Registry and Passport Office as before.

Departure tax

There is a 15 US Dollars departure tax and 5 US Dollars security charge (per person) payable on leaving the BVI by air, and a 5 US Dollar security charge (per person) payable on leaving the BVI by sea.