Bahrian travel advice

Travel Summary

• The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website has further details. Check swine flu for further information.
  
  
• The general threat from terrorism in Bahrain remains. Terrorists continue to issue statements threatening to carry out attacks in the Gulf region. These include references to attacks on Western interests, including residential compounds, military, oil, transport and aviation interests.
  
  
• You should maintain a high level of security awareness, particularly in public places. You should avoid large gathering and demonstrations, a number of which have turned violent.
  
  
• 29 British nationals required consular assistance in Bahrain in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (13 cases); hospitalisations (3 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (9 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (29 cases).
  
  
• Bahrain operates a zero tolerance to drink/driving and views all alcohol-related incidents dimly. Even travellers transiting Bahrain who are clearly intoxicated can be denied boarding and are detained and fined by Bahraini Public Security.
  
  
• 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 remains a general threat from terrorism in Bahrain. Attacks could be indiscriminate, and against Western, including British, interests, as well as against civilian targets, including places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

Terrorists continue to issue statements threatening to carry out attacks in the Gulf regions. These include references to attacks on Western interests, including residential compounds, military, oil, transport and aviation interests.

For more general information se terrorism abroad. Please also check the Bahrain: British Embassy Manama website.

You should maintain a high level of security awareness, particularly in public places. You should avoid large gatherings and demonstrations. British nationals who are travelling to, or are currently in Bahrain are advised to register with the British Embassy.

Crime

Some 8,000-10,000 British nationals live in Bahrain, and thousands more visit each year. Most visits are trouble free. Although incidents are not common, female visitors should take care when travelling alone at night and are advised to use one of the reputable taxi companies.

For more general information see victims of crime abroad.

Political Situation

Bahrain Country Profile

Developments in Iraq and on the Middle East Peace Process continue to have an impact on local public opinion in the region. You should be aware of local sensitivities on these issues. You should follow news reports and be alert to local and regional developments, which might trigger public disturbances. You should take sensible precautions for your personal safety and avoid public gatherings and demonstrations, some of which have turned violent.

Local travel

Road travel

Driving is permitted on a valid UK licence for three months, and indefinitely on a UK issued international driver's licence.

Bahrain operates a zero tolerance to drink/driving. If you are caught you will be arrested, put into the drivers prison and your case will not be heard until the next working day. First time offenders will have to pay a minimum £900 fine and could be banned from driving in Bahrain. British visitors from Saudi Arabia will subject to the same punishment but with the addition of a driving ban there also. For repeat offenders the costs and ban will be far harsher.

For more general information see driving abroad.

Air travel

Although alcohol is available at Bahrain airport, Bahraini Public Security officers and airline staff deal firmly with passengers believed to be intoxicated – even those solely in transit through Bahrain airport. Such passengers are denied boarding and are detained and fined by Bahraini Public Security.

Sea travel

On 30 March 2006, a Dhow capsized in Bahrain. There were 58 fatalities including 12 British nationals. You should exercise care when travelling by Dhow, as the safety of these vessels may not be up to UK standards. You should also ensure that life jackets are available.

Many areas of the Gulf are highly sensitive. Vessels entering these areas have been detained and inspected; and there have been occasional arrests. Mariners should make careful enquiries before entering these waters or considering visiting ports.

For more general information see river & sea safety.

Local laws and customs

Bahrain is a liberal state, but many Bahrainis are conservative and find revealing clothing or immoderate behaviour in public offensive. It is best to dress conservatively except within the confines of hotels or clubs, at least until you know your way around. Religious and social sensitivities should be observed and respected, especially during the religious festivals of the Shia community when black flags and banners may be in evidence. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend other cultures or religious beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas. For more general information see travelling during Ramadan.

You should not bring video cassettes or DVDs into the country, as these may be withheld on arrival at the airport. Be aware of significant Muslim holidays, and note that Bahrainis observe a number of religious anniversaries that may not be celebrated in neighbouring Gulf countries. It is against the law for any Muslim to purchase alcohol from retail outlets.

Homosexual behaviour is illegal in Bahrain.

Always carry identification. You might be asked to produce it at any time.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

The Bahrain Embassy in London issues six-month visit visas for approximately 20 pounds sterling. Three-month visas are granted on arrival for the equivalent of around 10 pounds sterling. Do not overstay the period of time allowed on your visa. Penalties and extension are surprisingly expensive.

Passport validity

Your passport should have at least six months validity when you travel.

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 Bahrain Embassy in London.

Health

Emergency medical treatment is not free.

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 Bahrain and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should check the websites of NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see travel health.

General

Insurance

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

If things do go wrong when you are overseas see how we can help.

Registering with the British Embassy

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

Weekend in Bahrain

The local weekend in Bahrain is Friday and Saturday.

Algeria travel advice

Travel Summary

• There are confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) Swine Flu in Algeria (source: Algerian Health Ministry. The Algerian authorities are screening passengers at Algiers International Airport. These measures will be extended to all international airports, ports (both goods and passengers) and land border stations in the near future. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website has further details. The Algerian authorities inform us that anyone suspected of having swine flu will be quarantined at one of 109 designated hospitals – see the Health section of this advice for further detail. You should monitor local media reports for any further developments and advice. There is a dedicated swine flu p age on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu is available on the UK Department of Health website .
  
  
• We advise against all but essential travel to the administrative districts (wilayas) of Boumerdès, Bouira, Tizi Ouzou, east of Algiers, which have been the focus of sustained terrorist activity over the last three years. Travellers should also exercise caution in the wilayas of Bejaia, the the east of Algiers, and Blida, Medéa, Chlef and Ain Defla, south and west of Algiers. Journeys within Algeria should be made by air where possible.
  
  
• The high threat from terrorism in Algeria remains. You should exercise extreme caution at all times as terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate, targeting places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers such as restaurants, hotels and shopping centres. See the Terrorism section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• If visting Algiers you should continue to exercise caution at all times. It is generally safe to move around the centre of the city during the day. You should avoid areas that you do not know, particularly in the suburbs of the city, and especially after dark. See the 'Travelling in Algiers' section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• There is a high threat of kidnapping in Algeria by Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb. You should be aware that the long-standing policy of the British Government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British Government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage taking. See the Terrorism section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• You should continue to check this advice regularly for updates and see the Terrorism section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• If you decide to travel over land outside the major cities, it is advisable to avoid travelling at night and preferable to travel in a convoy of at least 2-3 vehicles. Sustained small-scale attacks, including bombings, illegal roadblocks and kidnapping occur in many rural parts of the country. See the Crime and Local Travel sections of this advice for more details.
  
  
• 2 British nationals required consular assistance in Algeria in the period 1 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (0 cases); hospitalisations (0 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (0 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (8 cases). The main type of incidents for which British nationals required consular assistance in Algeria in 2008 related to family disputes, often involving child abduction/custody issues and/or theft of family documents and passports. See the Entry Requirements (Travelling with children) section of this advice and child abduction 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

The high threat from terrorism in Algeria remains. You should exercise extreme caution at all times as terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers such as restaurants, hotels and shopping centres.

We advise against all but essential travel to the wilayas (administrative districts) of Boumerdès, Bouira, Tizi Ouzou, (east of Algiers) and caution when visiting the wilayas of Bejaia to the east of Algiers, and Blida, Medéa, Chlef and Ain Defla (south and west of Algiers). Journeys within Algeria should be made by air where possible.

If you intend to visit Algeria you should check this advice regularly for the latest security advice. You should review thoroughly information on the local situation, take all necessary precautions in terms of your personal security arrangements throughout your visit, and follow local advice. You should exercise caution at all times.

Since the beginning of 2007 there have been a number of bomb attacks in Algeria. There were two bombs in central Algiers on the morning of 11 December 2007. These occurred near the Supreme Court building in El Biar and at the offices of the UN agencies in Hydra. Over 30 people were killed, and many more injured. The attacks were claimed by Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), a name adopted by Algerian terrorist group the Salafist Group for Preaching and Combat (GSPC) in January 2007.

On 29 July 2009, 14 Algerian soldiers were killed and several others were seriously wounded in an ambush in Damous, in the wilaya of Tipaza. A roadside bomb was detonated and then the soldiers were fired upon. Damous is situated 150km west of Algiers and 75km off the city of Tipaza.

On 22 June 2009, five communal guards were killed and two others kidnapped in an ambush by terrorists during a shift changeover in Chechar in the wilaya of Khenchela in eastern Algeria.

On 17 June 2009, 19 gendarmes were killed in a terrorist attach against the officers who were guarding a group of Chinese workers on a construction project. The attack occurred in the wilaya of Bordj Bou Arreridj, 148 kms east of Algiers.

On 2 June 2009, 8 police officers and 2 civilians were killed and 2 others were injured in a terrorist attack against a police convoy carrying exam papers in Touint Tessemat, in the Wilaya of Boumerdes, some 30kms south-east of the town of Boumerdés.

The other most significant recent incidents have been:

• On 22 February 2009 an attack occurred in the Jijel Province, killing nine security guards and injuring two others. During February there were a number of incidents in or near Tebessa, 600 kms to the east of Algiers, close to the border with Tunisia.
  
• On 20 August 2008 an attack was carried out in Bouira. Two bombs were detonated. One hit a bus outside a hotel and the other close to the town’s military headquarters. There were 11 fatalities and at least 30 others injured.
  
• On 19 August 2008 a bomb targeted a police training school in Issers in the wilaya of Boumerdès, resulting in 43 fatalities and 38 people injured.

Foreign workers and their means of transport have also been targets for attacks. In the last two years there have been at least three roadside bomb attacks on vehicles carrying foreign workers, which have resulted in six deaths and several injuries. For unavoidable travel and regular journeys we recommend changing the timings and routes where possible.

The Sahara Desert and mountainous regions in the south of Algeria have seen occasional outbreaks of terrorist violence. You should exercise caution when travelling in the area close to the borders with Tunisia and Libya.

There is a high threat of kidnapping in Algeria and surrounding countries by Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb. A British national who was kidnapped with a group of travellers in the Mali/Niger border region in January has recently been executed. Travel in Algeria can be difficult and you should take all necessary steps to protect your safety. You should have confidence in your individual security arrangements and maintain a high level of vigilance. Extreme caution is advised if considering travelling near the borders with Mauritania, Niger and Mali where kidnapping is becoming an increasing threat. The kidnapping of two Austrian tourists in southern Tunisia in March 2008, two Canadian diplomats in Niger in late 2008 underline the potential risk to travellers in the region.

You should be aware that the long-standing policy of the British Government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British Government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage taking.

If travelling in the southern border areas, we strongly advise you travel with a reputable tour company or approved local guide at all times and travel in convoys of at least 2-3 vehicles.

For more general information see terrorism abroad.

Travelling in Algiers

In Algiers itself it is generally safe to move around the centre of the city during the day, but best if accompanied by someone who knows the city well. You should avoid areas that you do not know, particularly in the suburbs of the city, and especially after dark. Do not carry large amounts of money or valuables around with you. If you plan to tour the casbah area of Algiers, you should employ the services of a recommended local guide and ensure local police have been informed of your plans.

Crime

While most visits to Algeria are trouble-free, in certain areas of larger cities there are incidents of robbery and thefts of and from motor vehicles. There have been reports of car-jackings and robberies and thefts by criminals posing as police officers outside the main cities. You should avoid areas that you do not know, especially after dark. Do not carry large amounts of money or valuables around with you.

For more general advice see victims of crime abroad.

Political Situation

Algeria Country Profile

You should take sensible precautions for your personal safety and avoid political gatherings and demonstrations and take local dvice about places best to avoid.

Local Travel

If you are travelling to Algeria you should seek the advice of your hosts about appropriate security measures. You should arrange, if possible, to be met on arrival in Algiers and, if travelling alone, should stay at one of the main hotels where proper security precautions are taken.

You should, where possible, make journeys by air and stay in pre arranged accommodation at your destination. Business visitors without established contacts should seek advice in the first instance from the British Embassy, Algiers or the Algeria desk in UK Trade and Investment.

Road Travel

If you want to drive a car you will need to obtain a local permit. You should not use public transport other than taxis recommended by your hotel. Overland travel outside major cities should be avoided at night, as buses and other vehicles have been attacked, sometimes at illegal vehicle checkpoints.

For more general information see driving abroad.

Air travel

It is good practice to re-confirm flights to, from or within Algeria.

For more general information see airline security.

Local laws and customs

Local laws reflect the fact that Algeria is a Muslim country. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend other cultures or religious beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas. For more general information see travelling during ramadan.

The weekend is Friday and Saturday. There are some restrictions on serving alcohol in restaurants in urban areas. To avoid unwelcome attention women should dress conservatively. Possession, use and trafficking of controlled drugs are all serious criminal offences in Algeria and carry custodial sentences.

You are not required to carry your passport at all times. But you should take it with you if you are making a longer journey or travelling by air. You should keep a photocopy of it somewhere safe.

Homosexuality is illegal in Algeria. Sexual acts between persons of the same sex are punishable by imprisonment. Where one of the participants is a minor, penalties for the other party are increased.

You should not attempt to take photos of police or military personnel or establishments.

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

Entry requirements

Visa

British nationals intending to visit Algeria must ensure they obtain a visa before travelling from the Algerian Consulate in London.

Passport validity

The Algerian Consulate will not accept a passport with less than three months validity remaining.

Currency declaration

Algeria has strict foreign exchange laws and the Dinar cannot be exported. (see General (Money) section below).

Travelling with children

British women who are the wives or partners of Algerian citizens should be aware that any children they have together will be regarded as Algerian citizens if the father's name is on the birth certificate. If such children are brought to Algeria and are under 18, they will only be able to leave again if the father signs an "Autorisation Paternelle". For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration please contact the Algerian Consulate in London.

Health

A (H1N1) – Swine Flu

There are confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) - Swine Flu in Algeria (source: Algerian Health Ministry). There are no reported or suspected cases of Swine Flu in Algeria. The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase has been raised to Level 6. The WHO website has further details. You should monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated swine flu page. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.

The Algerian authorities have informed us that anyone suspected of having swine flu will be quarantined and transported to one of the 109 designated hospitals in the country. Once at the hospital further tests will be carried out, samples will be tested in Algiers, and treatment will be carried out as appropriate. You should seek medical advice before travelling to Algeria 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.

In 2008 there were confirmed reports of an outbreak of Typhoid fever in the Djelfa region. Travellers should practice strict food and water hygiene. Young children, those visiting friends and relatives and long-term visitors, travelling to this area may wish to consider vaccination before travelling to this region of Algeria.

Facilities at private clinics are usually more comprehensive than at government hospitals.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 21,000 adults aged 15 or over in Algeria 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.

For more general health information see travel health.

Natural disasters

Parts of Algieria are susceptible to severe flood damage. Northern Algeria is also within an earthquake zone. In May 2003, a severe earthquake struck the Algiers area. There were over 2,200 dead and more than 10,000 injured.

General

Insurance

We recommend that comprehensive travel and medical insurance (including medical evacuation) is obtained before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see travel insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is how we can help.

Replacing a passport in Algeria

The British Embassy in Algiers does not issue passports. Before setting off, you should ensure that your passport has sufficient validity and plenty of unused pages. Applications for new passports are accepted in Algiers for forwarding to the UK for processing, but this may take up to six weeks. If a courier is used, the cost will have to be borne by the applicant.

Registration

If you are resident in Algeria you should make your whereabouts known to the British Embassy in Algeria, or by registering online with our LOCATE service. This tells us where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency.

Money

The use ATM machines and credit cards in is still confined to hotels and a limited number of other businesses in the larger cities. Algerian Dinars should be obtained from bureaux de change at the international airports and larger hotels or from banks in the main cities. You should not attempt to change money on the streets. Algeria has strict foreign exchange laws and the Dinar cannot be exported.

Ukraine travel advice

Travel Summary

• A human case of A (H1N1) - Swine Flu - has been reported in Ukraine. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at: www.who.int has further details. You should monitor media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on this website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website: http://www.dh.gov.uk. Please be aware that the availability of anti-viral medicine may be limited in Ukraine.
  
  
• On arrival in Ukraine, those who are suspected of showing symptoms of A (H1N1) and those who have had contacted with them will be isolated and the medical authorities informed.
  
  
• Around 71,000 British nationals visited Ukraine in 2008 (Source: Border Guard Service of Ukraine) . Most visits are trouble-free. 19 British nationals required consular assistance in Ukraine in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (5 cases); hospitalisations (7 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (2 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (21 cases).
  
  
• You do not require a visa for ordinary visits of up to 90 days. See the Entry Requirements section of this advice for more details. You should carry your passport with you at all times for ID purposes. You should beware of petty crime, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots or when using public transport.
  
  
• 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 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 great majority of visitors experience no difficulties, there have been murders, muggings and other violent attacks on foreign nationals both in central Kyiv and other major regional centres in recent years. In some cases these have been racially motivated. Travellers of Asian or Afro-Caribbean descent and individuals belonging to religious minorities should take extra care, but all travellers should exercise caution. You are encouraged to report any security incidents or problems to the Consular section of the British Embassy. The Embassy is unable to assist in the reporting of crimes to the police or the provision of translators for this purpose but a list of local translators can be found on the Embassy website.

You should be alert to the possibility of street crime and petty theft and aware that foreigners offer lucrative targets. You should keep valuables and cash out of sight, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots, where pickpockets and bag snatchers operate. Recently, an increasing number of pickpocketing incidents on public transport – especially the Kyiv Metro – have been reported.

A common scam is to drop a wallet or bundle of money in front of a tourist. The criminal then "finds" the money and asks if it is the tourist's or offers to share the money with them. If you are approached in this way, you should walk away without engaging in conversation.

You should also beware of accepting drinks in bars from casual acquaintances, as they could be spiked.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Ukraine Country Profile

Road Travel

You must possess a valid International Driving Licence to drive legally in Ukraine.

There is a zero tolerance policy on drink driving. You should avoid driving outside urban areas. Driving standards are poor and roads are of variable quality. There are a high number of traffic accidents, including fatalities. Take extra care.

We have received reports of traffic police stopping vehicles and levying on the spot fines for minor traffic violations. Ukrainian law allows the police to stop a vehicle but only if a traffic offence has been committed, though a faulty light bulb is sufficient grounds for this. However, the police are not permitted to fine you on the spot. They should issue a ticket and send a report to the court to decide if a penalty should be paid. You are entitled to know why you have been stopped and to ask for the name and rank of the police officer that has stopped you. The police do not have the right to confiscate your driving license or other documentation. If requested to pay a fine you should decline and, if necessary, insist on going to the police station to speak to someone. The Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Department of Traffic Police has published the following Helpline and Duty Telephone numbers that you may contact for advice;

Ministry of Internal Affairs:

Helpline: (8044) 256 1675
Duty Tel: (8044) 256 1002/4

Department of Traffic Police:

Helpline: (8044) 272 4659
Duty Tel: (8044) 272 3660

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Rail Travel

You should take particular care on public transport. If you take the overnight train you should, if possible, travel accompanied and you should secure your compartment from the inside.

Air Travel

On 25 July 2007, Ukraine's State Aviation Administration suspended the air operator's certificates of three airlines - Baltic Airline, Aeromost Kharkiv airlines and Ukrainian Mediterranean Airlines (UM Air) - because of concerns that they did not meet international and national standards. On 26 July 2007, the State Aviation Administration reported that a Kyiv court had cancelled its decision.

Ukrainian Mediterranean Airlines (UM Air), Ukraine Cargo Airways, Motor Sich Airlines and Valare Avaition Enterprise (which may now be operating under the name Albatross Avia Ltd) have been refused permission to operate services to the EU because they do not meet international safety standards http://ec.europa.eu/transport/air-ban/list_en.htm. It is recommended that you avoid flying with these airlines. If you have a flight booked with these airlines and it is part of a journey which commenced in the EU you should consult your travel agent. A number of other Ukrainian airlines do have permission to operate services to the EU.

The European Commission published a Regulation on 11 April 2008, which stated that the overall exercise of safety oversight, and in particular the implementation and enforcement of the relevant safety standards by the competent authorities of Ukraine, needs to be strengthened in order to ensure for sustainable corrective actions by the carriers under its regulatory control. You may wish to take this into account when making travel arrangements.

Local laws and customs

New laws regarding foreign workers obtaining work permits to work in Ukraine require documentation to be legalised prior to application. This cannot be done by the British Embassy in Ukraine. For information on how to legalise a document, go to http://www.fco.gov.uk/legalisation. You should speak to your employer or a local lawyer regarding whcih documents might be required.

Don’t get involved with drugs. Penalties are severe.

Homosexuality is legal and generally tolerated.

You should carry your passport at all times for ID purposes.

Don’t take photographs in the vicinity of government or military establishments.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

Citizens of the EU (including British citizens) are allowed to enter Ukraine without a visa for a visit of up to 90 days. The overall duration of any stay without a visa must not exceed 90 calendar days per 180 calendar days from the date of first entry to Ukraine.

An appropriate visa will be required if you are coming to Ukraine for the purpose of employment, study, family reunion, immigration etc. Information about applying for a visa and application forms are available on the Ukrainian Embassy website.

If you are in any doubt as to whether or not you require a visa, you should check with your travel agent or your nearest Ukrainian Embassy prior to travel.

If you plan to stay more than six months, you must register with the Ministry of Internal Affairs following your arrival in Ukraine. Your passport must be valid for at least one month beyond your intended date of departure from Ukraine.

Travelling with children

Non-Ukrainian children travelling with a single Ukrainian parent or other adult may be required to produce documentary evidence of parental responsibility before being allowed to enter or, leave the country. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration please contact: www.ukremb.org.uk/eng/cvs/

Health

A human case of A (H1N1) - Swine Flu - has been reported in the Ukraine. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at: www.who.int has further details. You should monitor media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on this website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website: http://www.dh.gov.uk. Please be aware that the availability of anti-viral medicine may be limited in Ukraine.

State medical facilities in Ukraine are generally poor. Private clinics and hospitals offer a better standard of care, though these do not always meet western standards and practices. If you are involved in an accident or taken ill, it is likely that you would be taken to a State hospital unless you can show that you have comprehensive medical insurance cover.

There is a bilateral agreement on Emergency Medical Treatment between Ukraine and the UK. You do not therefore need to pay an insurance levy when you arrive. If any attempt is made to charge you, you should inform the British Embassy in Kyiv. However, the agreement covers only emergency medical treatment. We recommend that you take out comprehensive medical insurance cover before you travel

The risk of radioactive contamination from the 1986 accident at Chernobyl is insignificant, other than within the exclusion zone immediately around the Chernobyl site. No special precautions are necessary.

You should drink or use only boiled or bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. If you suffer from diarrhoea during a visit to Ukraine you should seek immediate medical attention.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 430,000 adults aged 15 or over in Ukraine were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 1.6% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Ukraine 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. This should include cover for all forms of 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.

You should keep your original passport with you at all times for ID purposes and ensure that next of kin details are kept up to date.

Registration

If you are staying three months or more, you are advised to register on 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 at the top of this page and here.

Customs Regulation

There are strict customs regulations governing the export from Ukraine of antiques and items of historical interest. If in doubt seek prior permission from customs authorities.

Money

US dollars and Euros may be readily exchanged in major cities. Sterling may also be exchanged at a more limited number of sites. Use only official exchange booths. ATMs are also available and credit cards are widely used, but not universally accepted, in cities. Outside cities you should ensure that you have sufficient funds available in local currency.

Turkey travel advice

Travel Summary

• There are confirmed cases of Swine Flu in Turkey. You can check for updates on the number of cases at the World Health Organisation. As a precaution, all passengers arriving in Turkey are required to complete a health declaration landing card, including contact details. Turkish authorities are also using thermal sensors to monitor the temperature of all passengers arriving in Turkey. Those with temperatures may be tested at the airport or transferred to a hospital for testing. Results could take several days to become available and passengers may be asked to remain in hospital or at their hotel during this time. 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. 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.
  
  
• There is a high threat from terrorism in Turkey and a number of terrorist groups remain active in the country. Terrorist attacks are regularly carried out against the security forces in the south east of the country by the separatist Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK). We advise against all but essential travel in the provinces of Hakkari, Sirnak, Siirt and Tunceli and visitors should remain vigilant when travelling in other provinces in south eastern Turkey. Terrorist attacks have also taken place against both government and civilian targets in major cities such as Istanbul, Izmir and Ankara, and tourist resorts on the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts. Improvised explosive devices (IED's) have been placed in crowded areas, restaurants, refuge bins, outside banks and hotels and on dolmus mini-buses and trains.
  
  
• Al Qaida and other networks inspired by religious extremism have specifically targeted western interests in Turkey and there remains a global risk of attack from such groups.
  
  
• Outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in Turkey have led to a small number of human fatalities. The last fatality was in 2006. See the Health (Avian Influenza) section of this advice and Avian and Pandemic Flu for more details.
  
  
• The Turkish Ministry of Health have confirmed the presence of Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) in several provinces (Samsun, Kastamonu, Corum and Sivas). CCHF is transmitted by a virus found in ticks. Symptoms are sudden high fever, vomiting and bleeding. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for CCHF. See the Health (Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• Around 2,170,000 British tourists visited Turkey in 2008 (Source: Ministry of Tourism). Most visits are trouble-free. 347 British nationals required consular assistance in Turkey in period 01 April 2008 – 31 March -2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (102 cases); hospitalisations (112 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (47 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (157 cases).
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling to Turkey. 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 high threat from terrorism in Turkey and a number of terrorist groups remain active in the country.

Terrorist attacks are regularly carried out against the security forces in the south east of the country by the separatist Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK). Attacks consist of IED's and armed assaults and are carried out in both urban and rural areas. There are also occasional occurrences of violent public disorder in the region. The main provinces affected by PKK attacks are Hakkari, Sirnak, Siirt and Tunceli. There is a high level of security activity in these provinces and you risk arrest if you fail to comply with restrictions. We advise against all but essential travel to these areas. There is also a significant level of PKK activity elsewhere in the south east of the country (Van, Bitlis, Bingol, Elazig, Mus, Batman, Erzincan, Diyarbakir, Mardin and Agri). Vigilance is advised when travelling in these areas.

PKK bomb attacks have also been carried out on government and civilian targets in major cities such as Istanbul, Ankara and Adana, Izmir, Mersin and tourist resorts on the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts (these have included Kusadasi, Cesme, Marmaris and Antalya, Manavgat). Devices have been placed in crowded areas, restaurants, refuge bins, outside banks and hotels and on dolmus mini-buses and trains. See attached map (below).

Map showing areas with a history of terrorist insurgency and attacks [PDF, 1MB].

(This map is presented for information only. The Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) accepts no responsibility for errors or omission of any geographical features. Please read the FCO travel advice text for more detailed information).

International terrorist groups, including Al Qaida, and indigenous networks inspired by religious extremism have also specifically targeted western interests in Turkey. Extremists have also on occasion attacked Christian targets.

You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks. We advise you to remain vigilant in all public areas across the country and report anything suspicious to the authorities.

Significant Terrorist Incidents

• 27 July 2008 - 18 Turkish civilians were killed in a double IED attack in the Gungoren district of Istanbul.
  
• 9 July 2008 - 3 police officers and 3 terrorists were killed in an armed attack on the US Consulate in Istanbul.
  
• 8 July 2008 - 3 German nationals were kidnapped by the PKK on Mount Ararat. They were later released unharmed.
  
• 22 May 2007 - 11 civilians were killed by a PKK suicide bomber in the Ulus district of Ankara.
  
• 18 April 2007 - 3 Christian missionaries were murdered in the city of Malatya.
  
• 29 August 2006 - 10 UK nationals were injured by a PKK device placed on a dolmus mini-bus in the resort of Marmaris.
  
• 16 July 2005 - 5 persons, including 2 western nationals, were killed by a PKK device placed on a dolmus mini-bus in the resort of Kusadasi.
• 20 November 2003 - Al Qaida carried out vehicle-borne IED attacks on the British Consulate and the headquarters of HSBC in Istanbul, killing 33 people. This followed similar attacks on two synagogues in the city on 15 November, which killed 23 people.
  

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Generally crime is low, but street robbery and pickpocketing are common in the major tourist areas of Istanbul. You should be wary of approaches from strangers offering to change money or offering food and drink, which may be drugged.

In 2007 a high number sexual assaults, including rape, were reported to our Consular staff in Turkey. The majority of these cases occurred in coastal tourist areas visited by British nationals in South Western Turkey. For more general information see Rape and Sexual Assault Abroad.

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

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Turkey Country Profile

Turkey is a stable democracy. Demonstrations occur regularly in major cities. You are advised to avoid any areas where demonstrations are taking place.

Local Travel

Security Forces continue to enforce restrictions upon movement in areas bordering Iraq. You risk arrest if you fail to comply with these restrictions.

Road Travel

You should take particular care when travelling by road throughout Turkey, as road conditions can be poor. Road traffic accidents are common and are mainly due to either poor or reckless driving, particularly at night. According to the Turkish General Directorate of Security there were over 585,000 road traffic accidents in 2006 which resulted in 3,365 deaths at the scene and over 135,000 injuries.

If you wish to drive in Turkey, you are required to carry either an International Driving License issued in the UK or a notarised copy, in Turkish, of your Driving License. Please note provisional driving licences are not recognised. An 'A' category standard motorcycle licence is required to hire motorcycles over 50cc in Turkey. An 'A1' category 'light motorcycle' driving licence is only suitable for motorcycles below 50cc. It is against the law not to wear a helmet.

Contravention of the above could result in a heavy fine.

Do not drink and drive. The Police will breathalyse drunk drivers, fine them on the spot (currently 448 YTL) and immediately confiscate their licence for six months.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Rail Travel

The vast majority of train journeys in Turkey are trouble free. However, there have been accidents. On 22 July 2004, 38 people were killed and over 80 were injured when a high-speed train derailed on the line between Istanbul and Ankara. On 27 January 2007 nine people were killed and over 50 injured when a train derailed on the Istanbul to Denizli line near Kutahya.

Local laws and customs

There is now a smoking ban on all forms of public transport (trains, ferries and taxis) and in outdoor venues (including stadiums and playgrounds). Transitional arrangements are in place for cafes, bars and restaurants; they too will come under the smoking ban in July 2009. You risk being fined 62 YLT if you are caught smoking in a designated smoke-free area.

Turkey has strict laws against the use, possession or trafficking of illegal drugs. If you are convicted of any of these offences, you can expect to receive a heavy fine or a prison sentence of four to 24 years.

The export of antiquities is prohibited and carries a prison sentence from five to ten years.

The use of metal detectors is against the law.

Dress modestly if visiting a mosque or a religious shrine.

It is illegal not to carry some form of photographic ID in Turkey. It is therefore advisable to carry a photocopy of your passport with you at all times.

Do not take photographs near military or official installations. You should seek permission before photographing individuals.

Homosexuality is not illegal but is not widely tolerated: public displays of affection could result in prosecution for public order offences.

It is an offence to insult the Turkish nation or the national flag, or to deface or tear up currency.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

A visa is required for British nationals to enter Turkey unless they are cruise ship passengers who enter the country for a day trip and return to the ship the same day. British citizens may obtain a multiple entry visitor's visa valid for 90 days at the port of entry on payment of ten pounds sterling in cash (Scottish currency is not accepted). If you are a BN(O) passport holder and you arrive at Istanbul airport without a visa obtained from a Turkish mission abroad, you may be refused entry to Turkey.

If you take employment without the appropriate permission, you may be escorted from the country by the police authorities or, in some cases, deported.

If you stay in Turkey longer than your visa allows, you will be liable to pay a substantial fine upon departure. This varies according to how long you have overstayed. From the moment you have overstayed your visa the minimum fine is 98.40 YLT, rising incrementally each day to 193.20 YTL for an overstay of one month. If you stay longer than one month the fine increases substantially.

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for at least six months on entry into Turkey and have at least three months' validity on the date you are exiting Turkey. If you hold a Travel Document it must be valid for at least one year on entry into Turkey.

Travelling with children

If a parent travels on his/her own with a dual national Turkish child, written permission from the Turkish parent, certified by a notary, must be shown to the immigration authorities if requested upon departure, otherwise the child will not be permitted to leave Turkey.

Health

Please refer to the British Embassy, Turkey website for details of English speaking hospitals and doctors.

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which concerns free medical treatment in EU countries, is not valid in Turkey.

Turkey can be very hot, especially in summer when temperatures can reach 30-40C. To avoid heat-related illness drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, use a high-factor sunscreen and avoid direct sunshine. Older, very young and some other travellers may be particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and should take extra care.

Outbreaks of diarrhoeal illness occur in Turkey. Travellers to Turkey should practice strict food and water hygiene precautions.

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 Turkey 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.

There are reports that illegal alcohol is circulating in Turkey and that this was responsible for the death of 2 German tourists. If you have any concerns, please discuss them with your tour operator or with the Turkish local authorities.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

Swine Flu

There are confirmed cases of Swine Flu in Turkey. You can check for updates on the number of cases at the World Health Organisation.

As a precaution, all passengers arriving in Turkey are required to complete a health declaration landing card, including contact details. Turkish authorities are also using thermal sensors to monitor the temperature of all passengers arriving in Turkey. Those with temperatures may be tested at the airport or transferred to a hospital for testing. Results could take several days to become available and passengers may be asked to remain at the hospital or at their hotel during this time.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. You should monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website.

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

In January and February 2008, Turkish Authorities have confirmed a number of outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in the Zonguldak, Samsum and Sakarya provinces in Northern Turkey. In February 2007, Turkish Authorities confirmed a number of outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in the Batman and Diyarbakir provinces, South East Turkey. In January 2006 outbreaks of Avian Influenza in Turkey resulted in four deaths in eastern Turkey, believed to have arisen through close contact with infected poultry. Since the end of 2003, a number of human deaths have also occurred in Azerbaijan, Cambodia, China, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Laos, Nigeria, Pakistan, Thailand and Vietnam.

The risk to humans from Avian Influenza is believed to be low. However, 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.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned of the possibility that the Avian Influenza outbreaks could lead at some point to a human flu pandemic, if the virus mutates to a form, which is easily transmittable between people.

British nationals living longer term in Turkey should take personal responsibility for their own safety in the event of a future pandemic, including considering their access to adequate healthcare and ensuring travel documents are up to date.

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

Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF)

The Turkish Ministry of Health have confirmed the presence of Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) in several provinces (Samsun, Kastamonu, Corum and Sivas). CCHF is transmitted by a virus found in ticks. Symptoms are sudden high fever, vomiting and bleeding. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for CCHF.

Most of the victims have been farmers who were bitten by ticks while working on their fields. Visitors to these provinces are advised to take precautions such as wearing long-sleeved shirts, and tucking trouser legs into socks while walking through fields in the countryside. If you believe you may have been affected you should consult the appropriate medical authorities without delay.

Natural disasters

Many parts of Turkey lie on a major seismic fault line and are subject to earthquakes and tremors. In August 1999 an earthquake measuring 7.0 on the Richter scale resulted in over 17,000 deaths when it struck Izmit, a town 55 miles south of Istanbul.

General

Insurance

Do not travel without comprehensive medical insurance (including cover for medical repatriation), as private medical treatment is very expensive. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which concerns free medical treatment in EU countries, is not valid in Turkey. 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.

British diplomatic missions in Turkey

In addition to the Embassy in Ankara there are; the Consulate-General in Istanbul, a Consulate in Izmir a Vice Consulate in Antalya and Honorary Consulates in Adana, Bodrum, Fethiye, and Marmaris. Full contact details are on the Embassy website.

Passports

The British Embassy in Ankara, the Consulates in Istanbul, Izmir and Antalya and Honorary Consulates in Bodrum, Marmaris and Fethiye can provide Emergency Passport services. Full passport services are available at the British Consulate in Istanbul. Applications may be lodged, however, at the British Embassy in Ankara, the Consulates in Izmir, and Antalya, or the Honorary Consulates in Bodrum, Marmaris and Fethiye.

Money

ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas. Local currency can also be obtained from banks and exchange bureaux, known as DOVIZ in Turkish.

Switzerland travel advice

Travel Summary

• There are reports of confirmed human cases of Swine Flu in Switzerland. 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 in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• There is a moderate danger of avalanches throughout the year in Switzerland's Alpine regions. Please exercise due care and attention and observe ALL written notices and warning instructions. See the General (Sports Activities and Winter Sports) section of this travel advice for more details.
  
  
• Around 826,000 British nationals visit Switzerland / Liechtenstein every year (Source: Swiss Federal Statistical Office, 2008). Most visits are trouble-free. 109 British nationals required consular assistance in Switzerland in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (63 cases); hospitalisations (6 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (24 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (401 cases).
  
  
• We recommend that comprehensive travel and medical insurance is obtained before travelling. Alpine conditions can be hazardous and you should ensure that your insurance covers winter/mountain activities. 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 in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Most visits to Switzerland and Liechtenstein are trouble-free. There is a generally low rate of serious crime in Switzerland compared with other European countries. However, crime does occur and you should be aware that petty theft is on the increase. Be particularly alert to pickpockets, confidence tricksters and thieves in city centres, airports, railway stations and other public places. If travelling overnight by train, you should take precautions against being burgled while you sleep by opportunist thieves. You should not become involved with drugs of any kind.

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

Switzerland Country Profile

Local Travel

Road Travel

All road users should follow instructions given by local police and officials on the main alpine transit routes, at bottlenecks and areas of heavy traffic congestion. A warning triangle is compulsory and must be kept within easy reach (not in the boot). Radar detectors are prohibited in Switzerland whether in use or not. The limit for alcohol in the bloodstream is 0.05% and police may request any driver to undergo a breath test or drugs test. Swiss traffic regulations are strenuously enforced. Any serious breach of the regulations can result in heavy fines and/or imprisonment.

To travel on Swiss motorways, road users must purchase and display a vignette or face large on the spot fines. Vignettes can be purchased at most border crossings, petrol stations, Swiss post offices, by phone (on 00800 10020030) and online (at http://swisstravelsystem.com). The price of a vignette is currently CHF 40.

Alpine winters often make driving more difficult. You should equip your car with winter tyres and snow-chains, and check road conditions prior to departure. The Swiss motoring organisation, TCS, has up-to-date information on its website: http://www.tcs.ch (GER/FR/IT only).

A full (i.e. not provisional) valid UK, or other EU/EEA, driving licence is sufficient for driving in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. There is no need for an International Driving Permit. Drivers can find up-to-date information about road closures at: http://www.tcs.ch. Information about rails services is available at: http://mct.sbb.ch/.

In 2007, there were 384 road deaths in Switzerland (Source: DfT). This equates to 5.1 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.

Further advice on driving outside the UK can be obtained from motoring organisations such as the AA and RAC and 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 Switzerland. For more details about this see Airline Security.

Local laws and customs

You should respect the local laws and customs of Switzerland and Liechtenstein at all times.

Smoking ban in Canton Berne

Smoking in all public places (except in designated areas) is prohibited in the Canton of Berne. This applies to areas such as hotels, restaurants and public places.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

If you are a British Citizen or British Subject with Right of Abode in the United Kingdom, you will not need a visa to enter Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Other British passport holders should confirm the current entry requirements with the nearest Swiss Diplomatic mission.

Passport Validity

Your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay.

Health

There are reports of confirmed human cases of Swine Flu in Switzerland. 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 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 Swiss nationals. It also does not cover you for medical repatriation, on-going medical treatment or treatment of a non-urgent nature. For more information see EHIC.

An agreement between the EU and Switzerland came into force on 1 June 2002. If you are a national of the UK or any other EU country, a Swiss national, a stateless person or refugee and you live in the UK, you can use the EHIC to get reduced cost immediately necessary healthcare when visiting Switzerland. Your dependent family members and survivors are also covered, regardless of their nationality. If you claim treatment under the EHIC scheme, you will still have to pay the full costs of medical treatment first and claim a refund from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) upon return to the UK. You will have to pay 50% of the costs of any "medically required" ambulance transport within Switzerland, including air ambulance. Similar arrangements apply to Liechtenstein. Detailed information about the EHIC scheme, the treatment available under the EU/Switzerland healthcare agreement can be obtained from the Department of Health's website.

Tick-borne encephalitis is common to Switzerland, especially in the summer months in forested areas.

The Swiss Federal Office of Public Health has recommended that anyone born after 1963 who has not already been vaccinated against measles should be. This recommendation also applies to those who have not already had medically-confirmed measles.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 25,000 adults aged 15 or over in Switzerland were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 0.6% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information see HIV and AIDS.

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

For more general health information see Travel Health.

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

In February 2006, the Swiss authorities confirmed outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in the Lake Geneva and Lake Constance areas. A further case was confirmed in March 2008. There have been no reported cases in Liechtenstein. No human infections or deaths have been reported in either country.

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.

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. You should ensure that this includes cover for mountain sports and air ambulance costs. For more general information see Travel Insurance.

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

Sports activities and Winter Sports

Alpine travellers should take out complementary insurance to cover extra medical costs such as repatriation. Ensure you are covered for sports activities such as skiing, potholing and mountaineering. Travel insurance must also include mountain rescue services and helicopter costs.

You should be aware of the risks involved in the more hazardous sports activities. You should also take note of weather forecasts and conditions, which can change by the minute in the mountains. You should be well equipped, not undertake the activity alone, study the itinerary and inform someone of your plans. Off-piste skiers should follow the advice given by local authorities and guides; to ignore such advice could put yourselves and other mountain users in danger.

National avalanche bulletin.

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.

Liechtenstein

Conditions in Liechtenstein are similar to those in Switzerland and this advice is equally applicable there. However, the crime rate is generally lower than in Switzerland.

Contact Details

British Embassy, Thunstrasse 50, 3005, Berne

Tel: +41 31 359 7700

Fax: +41 31 359 7765

Website: www.britishembassy.gov.uk/switzerland

Email: info@britishembassy.ch

Office Hours:

General:

GMT: 0730-1130 and 1230-1600

Local Time: 0830-1230 and 1330-1700

Consular Section:

GMT: 0800-1100 and 1300-1500

Local Time: 0900-1200 and 1400-1600

British Consulate-General Geneva

Avenue Louis Casai 58, Case Postale 6, 1216 Cointrin, Geneva

Tel: +41 22 918 2400

Fax: +41 22 918 2322

Office Hours:

GMT: Mon-Fri: 0730-1030 and 1300-1500

Local Time: Mon-Fri: 0830-1130 and 1400-1600

Sweden travel advice

Travel Summary

• There are confirmed human cases of Swine Flu in Sweden. 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. See the Health section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• There is an underlying threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• Sweden can be affected by severe cold in the winter months, particularly in the North. You should be prepared for harsh conditions and if driving in the winter months cars should be winterised.
  
  
• Over half a million British nationals visit Sweden each year (Source: Swedish Central Office for Statistics). Most visits to Sweden are trouble-free. 105 British nationals required consular assistance in Sweden in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (9 cases); hospitalisations (2 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (83 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (121 cases). If you need to contact the emergency services in Sweden call 112.
  
  
• You should check carefully the bona fides of anyone offering employment opportunities involving asphalting or seasonal work, and should contact the British Embassy in Stockholm for further 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.

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

Sweden is generally a low crime country to visit. Petty crime occurs, but at much lower levels than in most European countries. Pickpocketing can be a problem in the summer months in the major cities when tourists are targeted for their passports and cash.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Sweden Country Profile.

Local Travel

Travelling within Sweden is easy. Although you may need to cover large distances (especially in Northern Sweden), the country's road and rail networks are efficient and extensive. Sweden's comfortable, modern trains are designed to deal with all kinds of weather.

Road Travel

If you are travelling by car you should note that driving conditions during the winter months of November to March can be extremely treacherous due to snow and ice.

From 1 December - 31 March (irrespective of weather conditions) Swedish registered cars are required by law to have either studded tyres or unstudded friction tyres bearing the following mark, M+S, M-s, M.S, M&S, MS or Mud and Snow.

Although foreign registered cars are exempt from this requirement, it would still be advisable to have winter tyres fitted.

In 2007 there were 471 road deaths in Sweden (source: DfT). This equates to 5.2 road deaths per 100,000 of population and compares to the UK average of 5.0 road deaths per 100,000 of population in 2007.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Rail Travel

For rail travel see www.sj.se/sj/jsp/polopoly.

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 Sweden. For more details about this see Airline Security

Local laws and customs

Importation of illegal drugs, including khat, is heavily punished.

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

Entry requirements

Visas

Visas are not required to enter Sweden. As a British passport holder you can stay as a visitor for up to three months. If you intend to stay for a longer period you should contact a Migration Board office.

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

If you are travelling with children other than your own you should be in possession of a letter of consent from the child’s parent/guardian.

Health

Health care facilities in Sweden are generally very good. Almost all medical staff will speak English. Pharmacies are not generally open outside normal working hours, which means they are closed on Sundays and observe limited hours on Saturdays. Emergency prescriptions can be obtained at hospitals. If you are visiting remote areas you should consider the relative inaccessibility of the emergency services. The telephone number for emergencies in Sweden is 112.

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 Swedish nationals. It also does not cover you for medical repatriation, on-going medical treatment or treatment of a non-urgent nature. For more general information see EHIC.

Tick-borne encephalitis is common to Sweden, especially in the summer months around coastal areas, especially the Stockholm Archipelago.

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 Sweden 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 Sweden 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)

The Swedish authorities have confirmed that there have been outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in ducks and wild birds at various locations in Sweden. No domestic birds have been identified as having the virus. 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 poulty 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.

Swine Flu

There are confirmed human cases of Swine Flu in Sweden. You can check for updates on the number of cases and their location through the Swedish Institute for Infectious Disease Control website: http://www.smittskyddsinstitutet.se (in Swedish). The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase remains at 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 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: http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/index.htm.

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 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.

Extreme weather conditions

Sweden, and in particular the north of the country, does get affected by severe cold weather during the winter months. Temperatures can be extremely low, and if you visit in winter you should be prepared for these harsh conditions.

Replacing your passport

If you lose your passport in Sweden, you should contact the British Embassy in Stockholm . The British Embassy in Stockholm has a full passport issuing service, which operates on a 10-day service.

Money

Remember the currency for Sweden is Swedish Krona and not 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 viathe EU to a non-EU country, as long as the original journey started outside of the EU nor to those travelling within the EU.