Visas

Before traveling to Algeria, it is necessary to obtain a visa from the Algerian Consulate in London as visas are not given on arrival. Please verify your visa’s details, such as its validity dates, before departure. If you exceed the permitted time of your visa or allowed stay in the country, you may be detained by immigration police at the airport, resulting in criminal prosecution and a maximum of three months in jail. You might be able to extend your visa at the nearest Wilaya (Town Hall) if you want to stay in Algeria for a more extended period than your visa or entry stamp allows.

Algerian Border

Please do not attempt to cross the land border between Algeria and Morocco as it is closed.

Passports

Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Algeria.

Leaving Algeria

When leaving Algeria, the Algerian authorities typically require to review the document used to enter the country. If you lost or had your passport stolen during your stay, you must produce a police report to the border police to demonstrate why you no longer have the passport you used to enter Algeria.

COVID-19

On 30 October 2022, the Algerian authorities announced the lifting of all entry requirements related to Covid-19.

Local Laws & Customs

Relgious & Cultural Differences

Please be aware that Algeria is a Muslim country and its local laws reflect this. It is important to always respect local traditions, customs, laws, and religions to avoid causing offense, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan or if you plan to visit religious areas.

In Algeria, the weekend falls on Friday and Saturday. Most restaurants do not serve alcohol and it is not available anywhere during Ramadan.

Women in Algeria dress in a variety of styles, including European fashion, and are not required to cover their heads unless visiting a mosque. However, to avoid unwanted attention, it is advisable for women to dress modestly, especially outside of the main towns.

Drugs

It is illegal to possess, use, or traffic controlled drugs in Algeria, and these offenses carry severe penalties.

Passport

While it is not necessary to carry your passport at all times, it is advisable to have it with you for longer journeys. If you are traveling by air within the country, you will need to present your passport. It is also recommended to keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place.

LGBT+ Travelers

Please note that homosexuality is illegal in Algeria, and engaging in sexual acts with someone of the same sex is punishable by imprisonment. Before you travel, we encourage you to refer to the information and advice page for the LGBTQ+ community on the UK Government Foreign Travel Advice website.

Photography

Photography of government buildings or security installations, including police and police checkpoints, is strictly prohibited.

Souvenirs

It is a criminal offense in Algeria to smuggle antiquities, and this carries a custodial sentence. If you purchase any souvenirs during your stay in Algeria, ensure you obtain appropriate documentation for items that appear old or antique. Failure to do so may result in being detained at the airport when departing the country and being prevented from taking the item with you.

For the most up-to-date information regarding to travel to Algeria, please visit the UK Government Foreign Travel Advice website.

Visa Requirements

When visiting Andorra, British nationals do not require a visa. However, it is important to note that access to Andorra is only possible through France or Spain. Before your trip, please refer to the travel advice provided by the FDCO for France and Spain, and for information on visas, kindly visit the website of the Andorra Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Vaccination requirements

To ensure that you have the necessary vaccinations and certificates required for your trip to Andorra, please check TravelHealthPro’s Andorra guide at least 8 weeks prior to your departure.

COVID-19

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for passengers entering Andorra.

Customs rules

Please be aware that there are stringent regulations regarding the import and export of goods in Andorra. It is essential to declare any items that may be prohibited or subject to taxes or duties.

As Andorra is not a member of the EU, it is possible that upon re-entry into France and Spain, you may be required to pay taxes and duties on tobacco, alcoholic beverages, and luxury goods.

It is important to note that France and Spain enforce strict limits on the amount of tobacco that can be exported from Andorra for personal use. Customs officers may seize any excess tobacco and the vehicle transporting it.

Laws and cultural differences

Alcohol Regulations

Please note that it is against the law to consume alcohol in public areas such as streets in Andorra.

Illegal Drug Policy

Andorra has a strict zero-tolerance policy when it comes to possessing and using illegal drugs. As a traveler, it is important to be mindful of this policy to avoid any legal repercussions.

LGBT+ Travelers

Andorra is generally a welcoming destination for LGBT+ travelers. Same-sex marriage is legally recognized in the country and transgender individuals are permitted to register under their preferred gender in official documents without the need for prior gender reassignment procedures.

For the most up-to-date information regarding to travel to Andorra, please visit the UK Government Foreign Travel Advice website.

Visas

Tourist Visa Requirements

As a British National traveling to Angola for tourism, you are no longer required to obtain a visa for stays up to 30 days. However, it is necessary to present a valid return ticket along with a yellow fever vaccination card upon arrival.

Penalties for Visa Violations

Travelers who overstay their visa in Angola will be subject to a fine of 15,000 Angolan Kwanzas (approx. £15) per day. You will not be allowed to leave the country until your fine is paid, and failure to pay the fine may result in legal action against you, such as being detained, deported, or being barred from re-entering Angola. Please be aware that a range of visa offenses carry fines, including working, studying, or residing without the correct visa, changing employment without informing the authorities, employing staff with incorrect visas, failing to renew residence cards, or changing your address without notifying the authorities.

Yellow fever certificate requirements

All passengers entering Angola are required to show a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Health & Vaccinations

Zika Virus and Other Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Angola has been classified by UK health authorities as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. It is important to visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre website for detailed information and advice regarding this. Additionally, there is a high risk of malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and chikungunya in Angola. The Angolan authorities have reported a significant increase in malaria cases since May 2021.

Malaria Prevention and Medical Advice

Seeking medical advice from your GP, travel clinic, or pharmacy regarding malaria prevention is crucial. It is recommended to do so 4 to 6 weeks before your travel. Even for last-minute travel, anti-malaria medication may still be necessary for your protection. For further information, please visit the TravelHealthPro website.

Local Medical Care and Insurance

In Luanda, there are several competent private clinics; however, fees are high and must be paid in advance. Outside of Luanda, access to healthcare is limited. It is essential to have adequate travel health insurance, including coverage for COVID-19, as well as any other potential medical or surgical procedures that may be needed. You should also ensure that you have accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

If you require emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 112 and request an ambulance. Promptly contact your insurance or medical assistance company if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Local laws & customs

Photography and Media

It is essential to avoid using cameras, binoculars, maps, GPS equipment, or any other technologies near government buildings in Angola. Taking photographs in the streets may also draw the attention of the authorities, and your equipment may be confiscated. Ensure that you are aware of your surroundings and are cautious when using electronic devices in public areas.

Drugs and Alcohol Regulations

The possession, use, and transportation of illegal drugs are severe offenses in Angola. Punishments can be severe, and prison conditions are inadequate. If you are under the influence of alcohol when arriving at airports, officials may refuse your entry, detain you, and deport you. Airlines may also refuse to carry drunk passengers out of Angola. It is important to note that detention conditions in police stations and the criminal investigation department are very basic.

LGBTQ+ Rights

In January 2019, Angola’s Parliament prohibited discrimination based on sexual orientation. However, public attitudes towards homosexuality may differ from those in the UK, and public displays of affection may attract negative attention. Before you travel, we encourage you to refer to the information and advice page for the LGBTQ+ community on the UK Government Foreign Travel Advice website.

Identification Requirements

You must carry a certified copy of your passport (data page and visa) and/or identity documents at all times in Angola for identification purposes. Failure to do so may result in an on-the-spot fine of 15,000 Kwanzas (local currency).

Importing Goods and Customs

Angola is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which prohibits trade in ivory. Anyone caught buying or trafficking these goods is likely to be prosecuted and may receive a prison sentence or fine.

Portuguese-Speaking Contact

The Angolan Interior Ministry suggests having a Portuguese-speaking contact available if you do not speak the language. This contact can assist with dealings with the police or other authorities.

For the most up-to-date information regarding to travel to Angola, please visit the UK Government Foreign Travel Advice website.

Entry Requirements

Passport Validity

If you are visiting or resident in Anguilla, it is important that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of your arrival. Please ensure that you check the validity of your passport before traveling.

Visas and Entry Requirements

As a British citizen, you do not need a visa to enter Anguilla as a visitor. However, it is necessary to have accommodation booked prior to arrival. Upon entry, visitors will be granted a 3-month period of stay. If you plan to work during your time in Anguilla, a work permit is required.

Departure Tax

When departing Anguilla by air or by sea to either French St. Martin or Dutch St. Maarten, a departure tax must be paid. The amount you pay depends on various factors, including your age, the duration of your stay in Anguilla, and your destination (whether it is neighboring French St. Martin, Dutch St. Maarten, or elsewhere). Please be prepared to pay the applicable departure tax at the airport or ferry terminal when leaving Anguilla.

Health

UK health authorities have identified Anguilla as a location with a risk of Zika virus transmission. For comprehensive information and guidance, please visit the website of the National Travel Health Network and Centre.

Emergency Medical Assistance

In the event of a medical emergency during your trip, please dial 911 and request an ambulance. If you are referred to a medical facility for treatment, please contact your insurance or medical assistance provider promptly.

Medical Facilities

There is one small hospital, one private day-hospital, 4 functioning public clinics (GP surgeries), and several private clinics available on the island. Any individuals requiring major surgery may be transferred to a neighbouring island.

Scuba Diving and Medical Treatment

Please note that there are no facilities on the island equipped for treating decompression sickness resulting from scuba diving. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you have suitable travel health insurance and adequate funds accessible to cover the cost of any potential medical treatment abroad or repatriation.

COVID-19 in Anguilla

If you test positive for COVID-19 while in Anguilla, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment there. If you suspect that you may have contracted the coronavirus, have been exposed to it, or have any health-related questions regarding COVID-19, please call the Anguilla COVID-19 hotline at +1 264 476 7627. It is important not to visit a healthcare facility unless specifically instructed to do so. The Health Authority has also established a dedicated COVID-19 information website.

If you receive a positive COVID-19 test result, the Health Authority will get in touch with you. They will provide guidance on whether you can self-isolate at your current accommodation and for how long, including anyone you are staying with. Alternatively, they may require you to quarantine at a government-approved facility. A negative test result is necessary to exit self-isolation.

Local Laws and Customs

Anguilla operates under its own legal system and has separate laws from the United Kingdom.

Possession of any kind of drugs in Anguilla can lead to severe penalties.

Topless or nude bathing is not allowed.

It is important to adhere to customs regulations regarding the import and export of agricultural products, as well as the protection of marine and animal life. Certain marine and animal specimens cannot be taken from the island. If you have any uncertainties, please consult the local customs authorities.

LGBTQ+ Rights

Anguilla does not recognize same-sex marriage or civil partnerships. However, hotels and resorts generally provide a welcoming environment for individuals, irrespective of sexual orientation. It is worth noting that local attitudes can be conservative, and public displays of affection between same-sex couples may not be socially accepted by everyone. Before you travel, we encourage you to refer to the information and advice page for the LGBTQ+ community on the UK Government Foreign Travel Advice website.

For the most up-to-date information regarding to travel to Anguilla, please visit the UK Government Foreign Travel Advice website.

Entry Requirements

Permits

Prior to visiting the British Antarctic Territory and Antarctica as a whole, it may be necessary to have a valid permit.

Passport Validity

While there are no specific passport validity requirements for the British Antarctic Territory, British nationals traveling to the continent or departing for Antarctica from another country (such as Chile or Argentina) will need a valid passport.

British Antarctic Territory Contact Details

Government of the British Antarctic Territory
Polar Regions Department
Overseas Territories Directorate
Foreign, Commonwealth Development Office
London SW1A 2AH
Tel: 020 7008 1639
Email: polarregions@fcdo.gov.uk
Office Hours (GMT): Monday-Friday: 9am – 5pm
Website: www.britishantarcticterritory.org.uk

Health

Antarctica has very few medical or search and rescue facilities available. Be mindful of the extreme weather conditions in the area.

It is important to have comprehensive travel health insurance that includes coverage for Antarctica, as well as sufficient funds to cover any medical expenses incurred abroad and the cost of repatriation.

Local Laws and Customs

The British Antarctic Territory is classified as a British Overseas Territory and has its own set of laws. It is governed by a Commissioner located in London. For more details, please visit the official website of the British Antarctic Territory.

LGBTQ+ Rights

Since 2014, same-sex marriage has been legally recognized in the British Antarctic Territory. Additional information can be found on the official website of the British Antarctic Territory. Before you travel, we encourage you to refer to the information and advice page for the LGBTQ+ community on the UK Government Foreign Travel Advice website.

For the most up-to-date information regarding to travel to Antarctica, please visit the UK Government Foreign Travel Advice website.

Entry Requirements

Passport Validity

Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival to Antigua and Barbuda. If you are a resident, then your passport must be valid for six months from the date of your arrival as well.

Visas

British citizens holding a valid passport do not need a visa to enter Antigua and Barbuda. Upon arrival, a specific period of stay will be granted. To stay longer, you must apply and pay for an extension of stay through the Antigua and Barbuda Immigration Department. It is considered an offense to overstay the entry period or work without a work permit.

UK Emergency Travel Documents

UK Emergency Travel Documents are accepted for entry, airside transit, and exit from Antigua and Barbuda.

Yellow Fever Certificate Requirements

Please check if a yellow fever certificate is required by consulting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Health

Dengue Fever and Zika Virus

Dengue fever is prevalent in Latin America and the Caribbean and can occur throughout the year. Antigua and Barbuda are at risk for Zika virus transmission, as classified by UK health authorities. For detailed information and advice, please visit the website of the National Travel Health Network and Centre.

Chikungunya Virus

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been confirmed in Antigua and Barbuda. It is important to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Local Medical Care

The main government hospital in Antigua and Barbuda can handle many types of treatment, but in severe cases, emergency evacuation may be necessary. Please note that medical treatment in Antigua and Barbuda can be expensive.

It is crucial to have adequate travel health insurance and sufficient funds to cover any medical treatment and repatriation costs.

In case of emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 999 or 911 and request an ambulance. If you are referred to a medical facility for treatment, promptly contact your insurance or medical assistance company. Before deciding on treatment at a private facility, verify their policies on pre-payment, as some private clinics may not accept medical travel insurance as payment for treatment.

Local laws and customs

Health

Vaccinations

Check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need at least 8 weeks before your trip on the TravelHealthPro Argentina guide.

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for passengers entering Argentina.

Emergency Medical Number

To request an ambulance, dial 107 or 911.

If referred to a medical facility for treatment, promptly contact your insurance or medical assistance company.

Health Risks

Health risks in Argentina include yellow fever, Zika virus, and dengue. Refer to the ‘Other risks’ section of the TravelHealthPro Argentina guide for more details.

Visa & Passports

Passport Validity Requirements

If visiting Argentina, ensure your passport is valid for the intended duration of your stay. For residents in Argentina, passports must be valid for entry.

Visa Requirements

Tourists do not need a visa to enter or travel through Argentina for up to 3 months, unless using an emergency travel document.

You can obtain proof of your last entry or exit from Argentina from the Argentine Migration Office website. If you want to extend your stay for another 90-day period, seek advice from the Argentine Migration Office before your current stay ends.

For purposes other than tourism, contact the Consulate of the Argentine Republic in London.

Customs & Laws

Customs Rules

Argentina has strict rules regarding goods brought into and taken out of the country. Read the Argentinian government website for more information (in Spanish). It is necessary to declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking Money into or out of Argentina

You can only enter or leave Argentina with less than 10,000 US dollars or the equivalent in other currencies. Refer to the Federal Administration of Public Income website (in Spanish) for more information.

Illegal Drugs and Prison Sentences

It is advised not to become involved with illegal drugs of any kind in Argentina. Possession of even very small quantities of illegal drugs can result in a lengthy prison sentence.

LGBTQ+ Travellers

Argentine society is open and diverse, and discrimination based on sexual orientation is rare. Same-sex marriage is legal. Before you travel, we encourage you to refer to the information and advice page for the LGBTQ+ community on the UK Government Foreign Travel Advice website.

Legal Action Against Oil and Gas Companies

The Argentine government has announced its intent to take legal action against oil and gas companies engaged in hydrocarbon exploration in the Falkland Islands. If traveling to Argentina and concerned about the possibility of being affected by this type of legal action, seek independent legal advice.

For the most up-to-date information regarding to travel to Argentina, please visit the UK Government Foreign Travel Advice website.

Entry Requirements

Passport Validity

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Aruba, with no additional period of validity required beyond this. You will be granted entry as long as your passport remains valid throughout your stay.

Visa Requirements

If you hold a British passport, you do not need a visa for stays of up to 3 months in Aruba. For more information on entry requirements, contact the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Yellow Fever Certificate Requirements

Check if you need a yellow fever certificate before traveling to Aruba by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Health

Zika Virus

Aruba has been classified by UK health authorities as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. To obtain more information and advice, visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre website.

Chikungunya Virus

Confirmed cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Aruba. Take necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites during your trip.

Health Insurance

Please note that the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is not valid in Aruba. It is important to have sufficient travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any required medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

Emergency Medical Assistance

In case of an emergency during your trip, dial 911 and request an ambulance. If you are referred to a medical facility for treatment, contact your insurance or medical assistance company promptly.

COVID-19

The Government of Aruba no longer has any COVID-19 related measures. For further information, see the website of the Government of Aruba.

Local laws and customs

Passports & Visas

Passport Validity

To enter Australia, your passport must be valid for the entirety of your intended stay. If you’ll be transiting through another country on your way to or from Australia, ensure that you’ve met that country’s entry requirements. For example, many countries require that you have at least 6 months of passport validity remaining.

Visa Requirements

British citizens can usually obtain electronic visitor visas for Australia, including eVisitor visas and Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). Find additional information about all other visa types available from the Department of Home Affairs.

Dual Nationals

If you are a British national with Australian citizenship or hold dual nationality, it is recommended that you use your Australian passport when leaving from or returning to Australia. Not doing so might cause delays and other difficulties. See the Australian government’s advice for dual nationals for additional information.

Health

Vaccinations and Health Risks

Check the TravelHealthPro Australia guide at least 8 weeks prior to your trip for updated information on vaccinations and health risks.

Visit the NHS travel vaccinations page to find out where to get vaccines and if there are any costs involved.

Emergency Medical Number

In case of an emergency, dial 000 and request an ambulance.

If you are referred to a medical facility for treatment, promptly contact your insurance or medical assistance company.

Healthcare Facilities in Australia

Under the UK-Australia Reciprocal Healthcare Agreement, UK citizens in Australia are eligible for essential and urgent medical care. Learn more about healthcare for UK citizens in Australia.

Essential and urgent hospital treatment is free, but there is a charge for visiting GPs and obtaining prescriptions. Some costs may be recoverable through Medicare, Australia’s universal health insurance scheme. You can enroll with Medicare via Services Australia.

If you are not covered by reciprocal healthcare arrangements between Australia and the UK, treatment costs can be high.

The healthcare standard in Australia is excellent. UK residents visiting Australia are entitled to limited subsidized health services under Medicare for medically necessary treatment. Please note that these provisions do not apply to non-visitors or students studying in Australia. The reciprocal agreement also excludes coverage for pharmaceuticals (unless you’re in a hospital), ambulance services, and medical evacuations, which can be very costly.

Local Customs & Laws

Quarantine of Goods

Australia has strict quarantine regulations in place to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases that could harm human, plant or animal health. You must complete an Incoming Passenger Card, declare any risk goods and dispose of them or seek further inspection and treatment. Failure to comply with quarantine regulations can result in hefty fines. Learn more by visiting the Department of Agriculture website.

Upon arrival, you’ll be asked if you visited a rural area or had contact with animals outside of Australia in the previous 30 days.

Personal ID

To minimize the risk of losing your passport, carry a proof of age card such as a driving license or student ID. This type of ID is accepted for various services, including opening a bank account or accessing licensed premises.

Smoking and E-cigarette Bans

Laws regarding e-cigarettes vary among Australian states. Liquid nicotine is considered a poison and is banned nationwide from being sold. However, some states permit its importation for personal use and the use of e-cigarettes without nicotine. It is advisable to seek local advice regarding any restrictions.

Illegal Drugs and Prison Sentences

Australian authorities take strict action against individuals who import or engage in drug trafficking. Offenders can face lengthy imprisonment and deportation.

LGBT+ Travelers

Same-sex marriages are legally recognized in Australia. The country is generally accepting of homosexuality, yet isolated incidents of homophobic crimes may occur. For travel planning and information relevant to the LGBT+ community, resources such as Visit Gay Australia and the Australian Human Rights Commission can be helpful.

Safety

Swimming

Rip currents pose the main surf hazard at Australian beaches and can occur anywhere. Even strong swimmers can be swept out to sea. Take precautions and follow local guidance on swim safety, as well as beach safety tips from Surf Life Saving Australia.

Flooding

Sudden flash flooding can happen in rivers and pools due to heavy rain in the area. There have been cases of British nationals getting injured by diving into shallow water. Always ensure there is sufficient water depth before diving and pay attention to warning signs.

Bushfires

Be aware of the risk of bushfires, particularly during the Australian summer (November to February). These fires can start and change direction with little notice. Australia regularly experiences devastating bushfires in various regions, resulting in loss of life and property. Residents are often advised to evacuate their homes.

Dust Storms

Dust storms occasionally occur in outback areas of Australia. Follow the guidance of local authorities when faced with this situation.

Tropical Cyclones

In certain parts of Australia, mainly Queensland, Northern Territory, and Western Australia, tropical cyclones can occur between November and April. Stay informed about cyclone alerts and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Dangerous Wildlife

Australia is home to various dangerous animal species, including crocodiles, jellyfish, sharks, venomous insects, spiders, and snakes. Be cautious and informed about the wildlife in the areas you visit.

For the most up-to-date information regarding to travel to Australia, please visit the UK Government Foreign Travel Advice website.

Visas & Passports

Visa Requirements

For visits to Austria and other Schengen countries, you are allowed to travel without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This applies to various purposes, including tourism, visiting family or friends, attending business meetings or cultural/sports events, and short-term studies or training. Please ensure that your entire visit remains within the 90-day limit, as previous stays within the Schengen area in the 180 days before your travel are counted towards this limit.

Please note that if you hold a residence permit or long-stay visa in Austria, this duration of stay does not count towards the 90-day visa-free limit.

Passport Validity

If you are traveling to an EU country (except Ireland) or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, or Vatican City, it is important to follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

Your passport must:

• Have been issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’ on your passport)
  Be valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’ on your passport)
• Make sure to check if your passport meets these requirements before your travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, additional months may have been added to its expiry date.

If you believe your passport does not meet these requirements, contact the embassy of the country you are visiting. If necessary, renew your passport before your trip.

Visas & Passports

Visas

British nationals visiting the Bahamas can typically enter without a visa for a maximum stay of 30 days. If needed, this period can be extended up to 8 months by applying to the Department of Immigration in Nassau. Overstaying your permitted duration may result in fines, detention, and deportation. For more details regarding visas, please refer to additional information on this topic.

If you are traveling to the Bahamas through the United States, you may need to apply for an ESTA. The Bahamas is considered part of the “contiguous territory and islands” for US visa waiver purposes. The time spent in the Bahamas counts towards the maximum allowed 90-day stay in the US under this waiver. If you have concerns about your US visa status when traveling to the Bahamas via the USA, it is advisable to seek advice from the US Immigration and Naturalization Service or any US diplomatic mission before your return journey.

If you have concerns about your immigration status, such as overstaying a visa, due to emergency restrictions, please contact the Department of Immigration at 225 5337 or immigration@bahamas.gov.bs. The Department of Immigration website provides guidance on how to apply for an electronic extension of stay and addresses other immigration concerns related to COVID-19.

Passport Validity

To enter the Bahamas, it is important to possess a valid passport. The passport should remain valid for at least six months from the date of departure from the Bahamas.

Health

The Bahamas present health risks such as the Zika virus, risks from biting insects and ticks, and dengue. For more details regarding associated hazards, please view the ‘Other risks’ section of the TravelHealthPro Bahamas guide.

According to the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group’s 2013 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic, approximately 7,600 adults aged 15 or over in the Bahamas were living with HIV. The estimated infection rate was around 3.2% of the adult population, unlike the UK with a prevalence rate of around 0.3% in adults. To avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS, it is recommended to exercise normal precautions.

Yellow Fever Certificate Requirements

While there is no risk of yellow fever in the Bahamas, there may be a certificate requirement. To determine if you need a yellow fever certificate, visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local Laws and Customs

Drug Possession and Trafficking

When visiting the Bahamas via a cruise ship, it is crucial to be aware of the severe penalties for possessing or trafficking drugs. It is not uncommon for tourists to be offered drugs in pubs and bars. Law enforcement authorities maintain a vigilant stance, and if caught, you could face significant consequences, including hefty fines, deportation, or even imprisonment.

LGBTQ+ Community Attitudes

Throughout the Caribbean, including the Bahamas, attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community tend to be mostly conservative. However, it is important to note that same-sex sexual relations have been legal in the Bahamas since 1991, with an age of consent set at 18. LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise caution and be mindful of local attitudes. Public displays of affection, whether between opposite or same-sex couples, are uncommon and may attract unwanted and negative attention. Before you travel, we encourage you to refer to the information and advice page for the LGBTQ+ community on the UK Government Foreign Travel Advice website.

Personal Luggage and Customs

When traveling through a cruise ship, it is recommended that you pack all of your luggage personally. Additionally, do not agree to carry any items through Customs for anyone else. By doing so, you can ensure that you maintain control over the contents of your luggage and avoid potential legal complications.

Photocopies of Important Documents

To safeguard your essential documents, such as your passport and travel insurance papers, it is advisable to carry photocopies with you during your cruise. Make sure to keep the originals in a secure place, separate from your copies. This precaution will help mitigate the impact of potential loss or theft and ensure that you have necessary documentation readily available.

Visas & Passports

Entry Requirements

Before traveling to Bahrain, it is important to check the latest entry requirements with the Embassy of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Types of Visas

The Government of Bahrain has reintroduced visas on-arrival at the country’s entry points. Travelers also have the option to obtain a visa in advance, either online or from the Embassy of the Kingdom of Bahrain in the UK. Holders of valid visas can enter Bahrain without the need for a letter of prior permission (excluding visas issued on arrival). Business visitors should bring a letter of invitation. Visitors can be issued visas for various lengths up to 6 months, depending on their needs and at the discretion of the Immigration Officer. It may be necessary to provide evidence of onward or return travel. Visitors entering Bahrain must not take up employment.

Visa Renewal and Residency

To renew your visa in Bahrain, you can apply at the Nationality, Passports, and Residential Affairs department at the Ministry of Interior. If you wish to apply for residency, you can do so through the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA). For individual circumstances, it is recommended to visit the NPRA website.

Passport Validity

Minimum Requirements

To enter Bahrain, your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry.

Yellow Fever Certificate Requirements

Check whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local Laws and Customs

Respect and Awareness

Bahrain is considered a liberal country compared to others in the region, but it is important to respect local traditions, customs, laws, and religions at all times. It is especially crucial to be aware of your actions to avoid offense, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan and Shia religious festivals. Cultural differences may exist, as Bahrainis observe religious anniversaries that may not be celebrated in neighboring Gulf countries.

Offensive Behavior

Offensive language, spitting, and aggressive behavior, including ‘road rage’ hand gestures, are viewed as seriously offensive in Bahrain. Engaging in such behavior can result in imprisonment and deportation.

Social Media

When using social media in Bahrain, it is important to do so responsibly and respect the local culture and public security rules. Posting material (including videos and photographs) online that is critical of the Bahrain government, appears to abuse, ridicule, or criticize the country, or is culturally insensitive, may be considered a crime punishable under Bahrain law.

Personal ID

All residents and visitors in Bahrain must carry photographic ID. It is an offense under Bahraini law not to be able to present photographic ID upon request by a member of the Bahraini authorities, and it may result in a fine of up to 300BHD.

LGBTQ+

Bahraini law does not criminalize same-sex activity between consenting adults who are at least 21 years of age, although sodomy is illegal. Bahrain is relatively liberal compared to other countries in the region, but conservative social views are held by many Bahrainis. Cases of individuals punished for same-sexual activity are reported but relatively rare. It is advisable to refer to the information and advice page for the LGBTQ+ community before traveling.

Drugs

Illegal drugs are strictly forbidden in Bahrain, even in residual amounts. Consuming or carrying illegal drugs, including during transit at the airport, can result in imprisonment and deportation. Buying or selling illegal drugs and narcotics is considered a serious crime punishable by life imprisonment. Some skincare products and E-cigarette refills may contain illegal ingredients in Bahrain, such as CBD oil. If you are using prescribed drugs, it is recommended to carry a doctor’s note and seek prior agreement from the authorities before bringing prescription drugs into Bahrain. Checking with the nearest Bahrain Embassy or consulate before travel is advised.

Alcohol

Alcohol is legal in Bahrain, with bars, licensed restaurants, and off-licenses available. However, it is important to note that drunken behavior in public or driving under the influence of alcohol is against the law. Offenders may face fines, imprisonment, deportation, and withdrawal of their driving

Passports

To enter Bahrain, your passport should be valid for the proposed length of your stay. Most cruises line have a minimum 6 month requirement for passport expiry.

Immigration and Customs Form

All travelers must complete the online immigration and customs form at least 72 hours before arrival.

Visa Requirements

British passport holders do not need a visa to enter Bahrain. The length of stay will be determined upon arrival. If you need to extend your stay, you must apply and pay for an extension through the Barbados Immigration Department. It is illegal to overstay the entry period or work without a work permit, and doing so may result in fines or detention.

Children and Young People

For guidance on traveling to Bahrain with children and young people, please visit the Barbados Immigration Department website.

Vaccination Requirements

Depending on your circumstances, you may need a yellow fever certificate. Check TravelHealthPro’s Barbados guide at least 8 weeks before your trip for information on the required vaccinations and certificates.

Customs Rules

There are strict rules regarding the import and export of goods in Bahrain. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Health

Emergency Medical Number

In case of medical emergencies, dial 511 and ask for an ambulance.

If you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment, promptly contact your insurance or medical assistance company.

Mosquito-borne Diseases

Barbados has been classified as having a risk of Zika virus transmission, and cases of dengue fever and Chikungunya virus have been confirmed. Take necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Refer to TravelHealthPro’s Barbados guide for more information.

Vaccinations and Health Risks

Before your trip, check the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Barbados guide. Find out where to get vaccines and whether you need to pay for them on the NHS travel vaccinations page.

Healthcare Facilities

The healthcare system in Barbados is not as extensive as the UK. While the main government Queen Elizabeth Hospital can handle many types of treatment, serious cases may require emergency evacuation. If you are unsure whether a hospital visit is necessary, call the helpline at +1 (246) 536 4800 to speak with a healthcare professional. Note that medical treatment in Barbados can be expensive. Check with private clinics about their payment policies, as they may not accept medical travel insurance.

COVID-19 Healthcare

For the latest information on COVID-19 risks and healthcare in Barbados, refer to TravelHealthPro’s Barbados guide. For COVID-19 inquiries, contact the COVID-19 Hotline at +1 (246) 536 4500.

Passport Requirements

To enter Belgium and other Schengen countries, you must meet the following passport requirements:

• The passport should have a “date of issue” less than 10 years before your arrival date. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are valid for 10 years, but if your passport was issued before that date, it may have extra months added if you renewed it early.
• The passport should have an “expiry date” at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave Belgium.

Ensure that your passport and other travel documents meet these requirements. If necessary, renew your passport before traveling. Entry will be denied if you do not have a valid travel document or if you attempt to use a reported lost or stolen passport.

Visa Requirements

For travel to Belgium and other Schengen countries, you can visit for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies to various purposes, including tourism, visiting family or friends, attending business meetings or events, and short-term studies or training.

Please note that the 90-day limit applies to the entire Schengen area. If you plan to stay longer or have other specific purposes for your visit, you must meet the entry requirements set by the Belgian government. Contact the Belgian Embassy to determine if you need a visa or work permit.

If you have a residence permit or long-stay visa in Belgium, this does not count towards the 90-day visa-free limit.

Traveling with Children Aged 17 and Under

If you are an adult traveling to or from Belgium with children aged 17 and under, you may be asked to provide proof of your relationship to the children at border control. This applies to parents, guardians, or anyone exercising parental authority. Carry appropriate documents, such as a birth certificate or court order, especially if you have a different surname than the children.

Vaccination Requirements (excluding COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip to Belgium, check the specific vaccinations and certificates required by referring to TravelHealthPro’s Belgium guide.

Customs Rules

Strict rules are in place regarding the import and export of goods in Belgium. It is essential to declare any items that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Please note that you cannot bring meat, milk, or products containing them into EU countries, with some exceptions such as powdered baby milk, baby food, or special medical foods.

Health

In case of a medical emergency, dial 112 and ask for an ambulance.

If referred to a medical facility for treatment, promptly contact your insurance or medical assistance company.

For more information and guidance on healthcare when traveling in Europe, please refer to the relevant resources.

Healthcare Facilities in Belgium

The FCDO provides a list of English-speaking doctors in Belgium. Non-emergency medical consultations and prescriptions may incur a fee, which you can potentially recover through your travel insurance.

COVID-19 Healthcare in Belgium

It is advised to wear a face mask in healthcare facilities, particularly for immunocompromised patients and those with respiratory symptoms. For information on protecting yourself against COVID-19 and what to do if you test positive in Belgium, refer to the Belgian government’s guidelines.

Health Insurance and Insurance Cards

Before leaving the UK, apply for a free UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). If you already have an EHIC, it will remain valid until its expiration date.

The GHIC or EHIC entitles you to necessary state-provided medical treatment during your trip, on the same terms as Belgian nationals. However, it is crucial to have both a GHIC or EHIC and appropriate travel insurance as they serve different purposes. Keep in mind that GHIC and EHIC do not cover all healthcare costs, such as medical repatriation, ongoing treatment, and non-urgent care. Make sure to understand what your travel insurance should cover.

State healthcare is covered by GHIC or EHIC, but private treatment will require you to bear the associated costs.

Passport Validity Requirements

To enter Belize, your passport must have an “expiry date” that is more than 3 months after the date you arrive. Some airlines may refuse entry if the expiry date is not more than 6 months after your arrival. If needed, renew your passport before traveling. Please note that entry will be denied if you do not have a valid travel document or attempt to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa Requirements

You do not need a visa to enter Belize. On arrival, you will be granted a 30-day stay. If you wish to extend your stay, you can do so by requesting a new stamp at the nearest office of the Belize Immigration and Nationality Department. Each additional 30 days will cost 200 Belize dollars.

Customs Rules

Belize has strict rules regarding the import and export of goods. It is important to declare any items that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. The customs declaration form will list the items that need to be declared. For more information, contact the Belize Customs and Excise Administration.

Please note that any COVID-19 tests brought into the country are likely to be confiscated if found.

Departure Tax

If you are leaving Belize by land or water crossing to Guatemala or Mexico, you must pay a departure tax of 40 Belize dollars or 20 US dollars at the border. If departing by air, the tax is usually included in the airfare.

Traveling with Children

Children aged 17 and under who are traveling alone or with an adult who is not their parent must carry a notarized letter to prove parental responsibility or consent to travel from the parent or guardian. Additionally, children traveling with only one parent must have a notarized letter of authority from the other parent granting consent for travel.

Health

Vaccination Requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the required vaccinations and certificates in the TravelHealthPro’s Belize guide.

COVID-19 Rules in Belize

There are currently no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travelers entering Belize.

Passport and Visa

All visitors to Benin, regardless of vaccination status, need a visa to enter or travel through the country. You can obtain a short-stay or multiple-entry e-visa by applying online and paying online. Your passport should be valid for the entire duration of your intended stay in Benin.

Health

Health risks and vaccinations

There is a higher risk of water-borne diseases in Benin, particularly during the rainy season when there’s an increase in cases of dengue reported in Cotonou and Calavi. You should take necessary precautions, including obtaining immunizations against cholera, tuberculosis, lassa fever, meningitis, and malaria. Check the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website for information on yellow fever vaccination requirements.

Medical treatment and insurance

Medical facilities are poor, particularly in rural areas. For serious medical treatment, medical evacuation would be necessary. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and available funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

COVID-19

As of now, travellers do not require proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative PCR test to enter Benin, regardless of nationality. However, travellers must comply with the regulations of the country they are departing from. In case travellers need to take a test to depart from Benin, the fees are 25,000 FCFA for normal service and 50,000 FCFA for premium service. You can find information regarding departing passengers on the online guidance page available in French. Test results can be obtained within 24 to 48 hours.

Proof of vaccination status

Your UK digital proof of COVID-19 vaccination record will be accepted in Benin, while the UK’s letter version or proof of recovery is not acceptable. The NHS appointment card from vaccination centers is not designed to be used as proof of vaccination and should not be used to demonstrate your vaccine status.

Medical treatment and insurance

Medical facilities are poor, particularly in rural areas. For serious medical treatment, medical evacuation would be necessary. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and available funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

Local laws and customs

Benin is one of the main centers of voodoo practices, and that culture remains prevalent. You should thereby research and respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities.

Homosexuality is legal in Benin, but homosexual relationships are not universally accepted.

Photography near sensitive or government sites, like military installations or the airport, is strictly prohibited.

Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs is a serious offense with hefty fines and lengthy imprisonment. You should politely and firmly decline requests for ‘gifts’ from officials to facilitate administrative matters.

Entry Requirements for Bermuda

Digital Arrival Form

All visitors to Bermuda must complete a digital arrival form before their arrival. For more information, visit the Government of Bermuda website.

Passport and Travel Documents

Passport Validity

To enter Bermuda, you must hold a valid passport. It should remain valid for the proposed duration of your stay starting from the date of your arrival. No additional period of validity is required beyond this.

Visas

British passport holders do not need a visa to enter Bermuda as visitors. However, it is necessary to book accommodation before you arrive. Visitors are usually granted entry for up to 90 days. For further inquiries about visas, visit the website of the nearest British Embassy or High Commission, or the Government of Bermuda website.

Extension of Stay

If you wish to extend your stay while in Bermuda, you must obtain permission from the Bermuda Department of Immigration before your initial 21-day stay ends. Although extensions are not automatic, they are generally granted.

Health

Medication

Ensure that you carry any necessary medication in their prescribed packaging and bring the corresponding prescription. For further information, refer to the website of HM Customs of Bermuda.

Travel Health Insurance

It is essential to have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover any medical treatment abroad and repatriation by air ambulance. Cases that cannot be handled in Bermuda are typically referred to Baltimore or Boston in the USA. Make sure your insurance policy covers any additional medical expenses incurred in the USA.

Emergency Medical Assistance

In the event of an emergency requiring medical assistance during your trip, dial 911 and request an ambulance. If you are referred to a medical facility for treatment, promptly contact your insurance/medical assistance company.

Local Laws and Customs

Bermuda operates as a separate legal jurisdiction from the United Kingdom and has its own laws.

Drugs and Weapons

Engaging in any form of drug involvement is strictly prohibited in Bermuda. Possession or importation of drugs can result in severe penalties. Similarly, the possession or importation of weapons, including air pistols, catapults, and ammunition (including empty magazines), is illegal. Violators will be subject to severe penalties.

Conservative Environment

Bermuda is a conservative destination. Nude or topless beaches are not permitted, and it is considered an offense to appear in public topless. Consumption of alcohol in public areas outside of licensed premises is also prohibited.

LGBTQ+

Homosexuality was legalized under Bermuda law in 1994. The Domestic Partnerships Act came into effect on June 1, 2018, which provides domestic partnerships for both same-sex and opposite-sex couples, removing the entitlement for same-sex couples to marry. According to the Domestic Partnership Amendment Act 2022, same-sex marriages that occurred in Bermuda before March 14, 2022, remain valid.

While attitudes towards homosexuality are generally tolerant in Bermuda, they can also be conservative. Some people may disapprove of public displays of affection between same-sex couples. Before you travel, refer to the Government information and advice page for the LGBTQ+ community.

Passport and Travel Documentation Requirements

Validity of Passport

Your passport should have an “expiry date” that is at least 6 months beyond your arrival date in Bolivia.

Visa Requirements

As a tourist, you can visit Bolivia for up to 90 days without a visa. Border officials usually issue 30-day stamps, but you can apply for 90 days in person at the nearest immigration office in Bolivia.

Failure to have a valid travel document or attempting to use a reported lost or stolen passport will result in denial of entry.

Vaccination Requirement

Check the TravelHealthPro’s Bolivia guide at least 8 weeks before your trip to determine which vaccinations and certificates are required. This may include a yellow fever vaccination certificate depending on your circumstances.

Customs Rules

Bolivia has strict regulations regarding items you can bring in or take out of the country. Ensure that you declare any prohibited or taxable goods.

Healthcare Facilities

The public healthcare system in Bolivia may not meet the same standards as the UK. Access to the public health system may be limited due to overstretching. Private clinics in major cities work with international insurance, but it is crucial to have travel insurance and access to funds as upfront payment for treatment is often required.

Carrying Personal ID

Police and immigration officials occasionally conduct ID checks. Carry copies of the photo page of your passport and the Bolivian entry stamps, leaving the original document in a safe place.

Illegal Bars

Bolivia has illegal bars, and being found at one by the police may lead to detention for questioning, especially if drugs are present. Legal bars close at 3 am.

Illegal Drugs and Prison Sentences

Bolivia is the world’s third-largest producer of cocaine, and severe penalties apply for trafficking or possession. Minimum sentences are 8 years, and prison conditions are poor. Never leave luggage unattended when leaving the country and avoid any contact with illegal drugs.

Ayahuasca Ceremonies

Ayahuasca ceremonies involving the consumption of a hallucinogenic drug called DMT are conducted in Bolivia, primarily in the Amazon region near La Paz. While not illegal to consume, these ceremonies can have serious health risks and limited understanding of interactions with existing medical conditions. Some retreats are located in remote areas, making medical help difficult to access.

Use of Cameras and Binoculars

Exercise caution when using cameras and binoculars in remote areas, especially in coca-growing regions. Locals may be suspicious of photography, so it’s advisable to check before taking photos of people.

LGBTQ+ Travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Bolivia, but same-sex relationships may be disapproved by many Bolivians. Attitudes in Santa Cruz tend to be more liberal compared to the Altiplano region.

Passport Validity Requirements

Your passport must have an expiry date that is at least 6 months after the date of your arrival.

When traveling from one island to another, it is necessary to bring your passport as each island has separate immigration procedures.

Failure to possess a valid travel document or attempting to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen will result in denial of entry.

Visa Requirements

You can stay in Bonaire, St Eustatius, and Saba for up to 3 months per island without a visa.

For further details on visas and entry requirements, contact the Netherlands Embassy or refer to Netherlands Worldwide.

Vaccination Requirements

Check the TravelHealthPro’s Caribbean Islands (Netherlands) guide at least 8 weeks before your trip to determine the required vaccinations and certificates. This may include a yellow fever certificate, depending on your circumstances.

Customs Rules

There are strict rules regarding the transportation of goods into or out of Bonaire, St Eustatius, and Saba. It is essential to declare any items that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Passport Validity

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Botswana.

The Botswana government requires dual nationals to use the same passport for both exiting the previous country and entering Botswana.

Visa Requirements

British nationals typically do not require a visa for stays in Botswana of up to 90 days.

Overstaying your permitted duration may cause delays upon departure. If you wish to extend your stay, seek an extension from the Department of Immigration.

Traveling with Children

As of October 1, 2016, the Botswana government requires children (under 18 years old) traveling into or through the country to provide a certified copy of their full unabridged birth certificate and a valid passport (an abridged or short birth certificate is not accepted).

If a child is traveling with one parent, another adult, or unaccompanied, the absent parent(s) must provide an affidavit giving consent for the child to travel. For more information, contact the Botswana Embassy.

Health

Yellow Fever Certificate

Visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website to determine if you need a yellow fever certificate.

Ebola Measures

The Botswana government implements measures to screen travelers arriving from Ebola-affected countries. Entry to Botswana may be denied, and quarantine may be required for individuals arriving from Ebola-affected countries. Contact the Botswana Ministry of Health for more information.

Local Laws and Customs

Drug Offenses

Engaging in drug taking or smuggling is a serious offense in Botswana, and the punishments can be severe.

Photography Restrictions

Taking photographs or using video equipment near military and government installations is prohibited. Always seek permission before taking photographs of people in Botswana.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

While homosexuality is no longer prohibited by law in Botswana, public attitudes may be less tolerant compared to the UK. Public displays of affection may attract negative attention. Please refer to the government information and advice page for the LGBTQ+ community before traveling.

Passport

Your passport should be valid for a minimum of 6 months from the date of entry into Brazil.

Visas

British nationals can typically enter Brazil without a visa for tourism purposes. However, please check the website of the Brazilian Consulate in London for up-to-date information regarding visa requirements.

Dual Nationality

Dual British/Brazilian nationals visiting Brazil are often required by immigration authorities to travel on their Brazilian passports.

Traveling with Children

For dual British-Brazilian nationals who are 17 years old or younger, both parents or legal guardians must provide authorization for the child to travel within or exit Brazil. If the minor is traveling with both parents, written authorization is not required.

If the minor is traveling with only one parent or without either parent, two original written authorizations from both parents are necessary. These authorizations can be obtained using the Travel Authorization for Brazilian Minors procedure or through the e-Notariado online platform.

Prior to departure from Brazil, the Federal Police will require the travel authorization to be presented. One copy will be retained by the Federal Police, along with a copy of the minor’s identification document, while the other copy should remain with the minor or the adult accompanying them.

Health

Vaccinations

The UK health authorities have classified Brazil as having a risk of Zika virus transmission, as well as chikungunya, yellow fever, and dengue. Cases of dengue fever have increased, particularly in the north, southeast, and central-west regions of Brazil, with the state of Minas Gerais on alert due to an increase in dengue, chikungunya, and Zika cases. Malaria is also present in some parts of the country. Taking precautions to avoid mosquito bites is recommended.

For more information and advice, visit the website of the National Travel Health Network and Centre and check the recommended vaccinations.

Yellow Fever Certificate Requirements

Please visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website to determine if you need a yellow fever certificate.

Sun Exposure

The sun in Brazil can be extremely strong, and UV levels are higher compared to the UK. Take necessary precautions to protect yourself from sunburn and other sun-related issues.

Emergency Medical Treatment

Foreign nationals are entitled to emergency medical treatment in Brazilian public hospitals. However, public hospitals, especially in major cities, can be overcrowded, with long wait times for beds and a lack of medication. Private hospitals may require evidence of sufficient funds or insurance before providing treatment. It is advisable to have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover medical expenses and repatriation if needed.

Emergency Assistance

In case of emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 192 and request an ambulance. Contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Local Laws & Customs

Drug Offenses

Drug trafficking is widespread in Brazil, and severe penalties, including long prison sentences, are imposed on those caught trafficking drugs. Possession of drugs for personal use also carries penalties, ranging from educational classes to community service. Beware of email scams that involve carrying items/gifts out of Brazil, as these items may be illegal drugs. Being caught in possession will result in detention for drug trafficking, regardless of the circumstances.

Protection of Children

The sexual abuse of children is a serious crime in Brazil and sadly widespread. The authorities of both the UK and Brazil are committed to combating travelling child sex offenders. The Brazilian government continues to actively pursue and prosecute individuals who commit such offenses. It is important to note that committing sex offenses against children abroad can lead to prosecution in the UK.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Homosexuality is not prohibited by law in Brazil, and same-sex marriage has been legal since 2013. LGBT couples have equal rights in law, and the Brazilian Constitution protects human rights, including LGBT rights. However, it is worth noting that while Brazil has a tradition of tolerance, society can be conservative, particularly in rural areas. Exercise discretion and refer to the government information and advice page for the LGBTQ+ community before traveling.

Passport Validity

When visiting the BVI, your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay. However, if you’re a resident, your passport must be valid for at least 3 months from the day of your arrival.

Visa Requirements

British nationals do not require a visa to visit BVI. Upon arrival, the immigration authorities of the BVI will grant you a 1-month entry stamp. This can be extended for an additional month upon discretion.

Extensions for up to 6 months may also be granted by providing proof of independent financial means, evidence of accommodation and plans of leaving the BVI after your stay.

Health

Health Risks

The BVI has some health risks, including the Zika virus, risks associated with biting insects and ticks, and dengue. For further details and information, visit the TravelHealthPro BVI guide’s “Other risks” section.

There is only one hospital, Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, in the BVI, and medical facilities are limited. For complex medical problems, you may be referred to hospitals in the US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, or mainland USA.

Make sure you have travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the costs of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

Laws and Cultural Differences

The BVI is a separate jurisdiction and has its own laws, which differ from those of the UK. Some of the laws and cultural differences within the BVI include:

Illegal Drugs and Prison Sentences

Illegal drugs, including marijuana, should be avoided completely. Possession of small quantities of illegal drugs may still result in substantial fines or imprisonment. Drug trafficking is also taken very seriously with significant prison terms.

Conservation and Fishing

Several environmental laws must be adhered to in the BVI. Rules related to fishing including use of scuba equipment and fishing in designated protected areas apply. Be sure to get a permit for commercial, sport, or pleasure fishing and register your boat with the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.

LGBTQ+ Travellers

Same-sex couples may not expect the same laws and protections in BVI but it legal to express your orientation. Some public displays of affection may not be accepted in all parts of the country. Hotels and resorts are generally welcoming. Refer to the government advice for LGBTQ+ travellers for further guidance.

Passport

To enter Brunei, your passport must have an expiry date that is at least 6 months after the day of entry. Additionally, it should not be damaged or have any missing pages. Failure to meet these conditions may result in refusal of entry and detention.

Visa Requirements

British citizens holding a passport can stay in Brunei for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. However, if you hold another type of British nationality, it is best to verify the visa requirements with the Brunei immigration authorities.

Dual Nationality

Brunei does not recognize dual nationality for its citizens. If you hold both a Bruneian passport and a passport of a different nationality, the immigration authorities may refuse your entry.

For dual nationals, it is recommended to use the same passport for both entry and exit from Brunei. The passport you use to enter will determine your nationality in Brunei. Brunei does not recognise the dual nationality of Bruneians. The immigration authorities can refuse your entry if you hold a Bruneian passport and a passport of a different nationality. Keep in mind that if you enter using a Brunei passport, you will not have access to British consular assistance as you will be treated as a Bruneian.

Declaration Form

Before entering Brunei, you must complete the e-arrival declaration form. It is advisable to fill out this form before your trip as it may be required during check-in. If you are not passing through immigration, there is no need to complete the arrival form.

Vaccination Requirements

It is essential to check the required vaccinations and certifications at least 8 weeks before your trip. The TravelHealthPro’s Brunei guide provides detailed information on the specific vaccinations you may need. In some cases, a yellow fever certificate may be necessary, depending on your circumstances.

Customs Rules

Brunei has strict rules regarding the import and export of goods, as well as limitations on the amount of alcohol you can bring in or take out. Be sure to declare any items that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Passport

To enter Bulgaria, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements. This means that your passport should have been issued within the last 10 years before your arrival date. Passports issued after October 1, 2018, are valid for 10 years, while passports issued before that date may have additional months added if renewed early. Additionally, your passport should have an expiry date that is at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave Bulgaria.  If needed, you should renew your passport before your trip. Entry will be denied if you have an invalid travel document or attempt to use a reported lost or stolen passport.

Visa

While Bulgaria is not part of the Schengen area, visits to Bulgaria do not count towards the 90-day visa-free limit in the Schengen area. You can travel to Bulgaria without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period for various purposes such as tourism, visiting family or friends, attending business meetings, cultural or sports events, or short-term studies or training. It is important to ensure that your entire visit falls within the 90-day limit. If you plan to stay longer for work, study, business travel, or other reasons, you will need to meet the specific entry requirements and obtain the relevant visa or work permit from the Bulgarian Embassy. However, if you have a residence permit or long-stay visa for Bulgaria, this does not count towards the 90-day visa-free limit.

Health

Vaccinations

It is recommended to check TravelHealthPro’s Bulgaria guide at least 8 weeks before your trip for updated information on vaccinations and health risks. You should also refer to the NHS travel vaccinations page to find out where to get the necessary vaccines and whether there are charges for them.

COVID-19

If you test positive for COVID-19, you are required by law to self-isolate for 7 days starting from the date of your positive test result. Similarly, if you have had close contact with someone who has tested positive, you must isolate for 5 days from the date of your last contact with the infected person. However, if you are fully vaccinated or have received a booster dose in the last 90 days, you are exempt from this isolation requirement. During the isolation period, it is important not to leave your place of isolation.

Customs Rules

Bulgaria has strict rules regarding the import and export of goods. It is necessary to declare any items that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. When traveling to the EU, including Bulgaria, it is important to note that you are not allowed to bring meat, milk, or products containing them into EU countries, with some exceptions for specific circumstances. For more detailed information on customs rules, you can refer to the European Commission website.

Laws and Cultural Differences

Personal ID

It is a legal requirement in Bulgaria to carry a form of identification or a copy of the information pages of your passport at all times as proof of identity.

Illegal Items

Certain items, such as weapons, that may be legal in Bulgaria but illegal in the UK should not be imported or exported. This includes weapons like stun guns, torch stun guns, knives, pepper spray, and CS gas. Doing so can result in a prison sentence.

Drug and Sex Offences

The Bulgarian authorities take drug-related and sex offences very seriously. Foreigners found guilty of such offences can expect to receive prison sentences.

Drunken and Disorderly Behavior

Offences relating to drunken, disorderly behavior, and hooliganism may be treated more seriously in Bulgaria compared to the UK.

Photography in Sensitive Areas

It is advised to avoid taking photographs near sensitive areas, such as military establishments, without obtaining permission.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

While same-sex relationships are not illegal in Bulgaria, public attitudes are less tolerant compared to the UK. LGBTQ+ individuals often keep a low profile. Sofia, the capital city, has a few gay bars and clubs and holds an annual Sofia Pride event. However, some negative attention has been reported, and the event is held with a heightened police presence and security measures. It is important to familiarize yourself with the safety rules provided by the organizers if you plan to attend. Outside of Sofia, attitudes tend to be more conservative, and isolated cases of hostility have been reported in certain cities.

Additional information on LGBTQ+ issues in Bulgaria can be found on the website of the Bulgarian Helsinki Committee. It is recommended to read the information for LGBTQ+ travelers on the UK Government website before your trip.

Ban on Face Coverings

Covering your face with garments, such as a burka or similar head covering, is illegal in public places in Bulgaria. This includes government buildings, streets, parks, gardens, restaurants, shops, and public transport. There is a fine for covering your face in public places.

Passport

To enter Cambodia, your passport must meet the following requirements:

• Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the date you arrive in Cambodia.
• It should be undamaged and complete. Entry is typically refused if your passport is damaged or missing pages.
• If you plan to renew or extend your visa from within Cambodia, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the start date of that subsequent renewal or extension.

Ensure that your passport and other travel documents meet these requirements by checking with your travel provider. If needed, consider renewing your passport before your trip.

Visa

As a visitor, you will need a visa to enter and travel through Cambodia. Here are some important points regarding visas:

• Stay updated on the latest information about fees, conditions, and photograph requirements by consulting the Royal Embassy of Cambodia.
• Tourist visas are valid for 30 days starting from the date of entry into Cambodia. Make sure your passport is stamped upon arrival, and keep the departure form. In the event of losing the departure form, contact immigration officials before leaving the country to make alternative arrangements.
• You can apply for an e-visa at least 4 days in advance. If an e-visa is not obtained, you can obtain a visa on arrival at airports or land border crossings. This requires providing a photo and payment in US dollars. Additionally, it is possible to extend a tourist visa while in Cambodia.
• Overstaying your visa may result in fines, detention, and even deportation. There is no limit to the fine imposed. If you overstay for more than 30 days, you will need to leave Cambodia and pay the fine.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Cambodia guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Laws and Cultural Differences

Prison sentences and conditions

If you are arrested and convicted of a crime in Cambodia, expect a lengthy prison sentence. Pre-trial detention can also be prolonged. The legal process in Cambodia is unpredictable, lacks transparency, and can be influenced by political and business interests. The investigation and trial processes are well below the standards of the UK. The British Embassy cannot intervene in the legal processes of another country. Please note that conditions in Cambodian prisons are extremely poor, with overcrowding and inadequate medical facilities. The UK does not have a prisoner transfer agreement with Cambodia, meaning that if found guilty, you will serve your full prison term there.

Visits to religious sites

When visiting religious sites such as Angkor Wat, adhere to the official code of conduct issued by the Cambodian authorities. Dress appropriately, avoiding skirts or shorts above the knee and bare shoulders. Failure to comply may result in refusal of admission to these sites.

Photography in secure areas

Exercise caution when taking photographs and avoid capturing images on or near military bases without permission. Respect the privacy of individuals, especially monks and other religious figures, by seeking their consent before photographing them.

Surveys, research, and unusual travel plans

Obtain permission from the appropriate authorities, including the district head, provincial governor, or national tourism authority, for any travel activities considered out of the ordinary. This includes conducting surveys, extensive photography, or any form of scientific research.

LGBTQ+ travelers

Same-sex sexual relationships are legal in Cambodia, and the LGBTQ+ community is growing more visible, with the presence of gay clubs, club nights, and human rights organizations. For more specific advice for LGBTQ+ travelers, refer to additional resources available on the UK Government website.

Passport validity requirements

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

Visa Requirements

To travel to Canada, most people need either a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), but not both. For short visits of up to six months, an eTA is required. Use the official tool to check entry requirements and determine whether you need a visa or an eTA for your visit.

Customs Rules

Canada enforces strict rules regarding goods that can be brought into or taken out of the country. It is important to declare any items that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. Failure to comply can result in confiscation of banned food products and fines. Refer to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website for more information.

If you have visited a farm or had contact with wild animals before entering Canada and plan to visit a farm during your stay, make sure to complete the relevant section in your Customs Declaration Card. For additional information, consult the Government of Canada’s website on biosecurity.

Health

Vaccinations

Check the latest information on health risks and necessary vaccinations for Canada at least 8 weeks before your trip. You can find this information on TravelHealthPro, which is operated by the UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre.

Healthcare Facilities in Canada

Medical treatment in Canada can be quite expensive, and there are no special arrangements for British visitors. In case of emergency healthcare needs, it is advisable to go to a hospital emergency room or a walk-in clinic.

If you hold dual British-Canadian citizenship and do not meet the provincial residency requirements for healthcare, you may still be required to pay for medical treatment. Check with the relevant province or territory for further information.

Laws and Cultural Differences

Cannabis

Recreational cannabis is legal in Canada, but local laws differ based on the province or territory you are visiting. It is important to note that it is illegal to bring any form of cannabis into the UK without a valid license issued by the Home Office. This includes prescribed cannabis and cannabinoid oils for medical purposes obtained in Canada. Taking cannabis across the Canadian border without a permit or exemption authorized by Health Canada is also illegal. Refer to the Canadian Border Services Agency website for more details.

Wildlife

If you plan to hike or camp in Canada, it is important to be considerate and cautious of local wildlife. Here are some guidelines to follow:

• Take all rubbish, including food items, with you to avoid attracting animals to your site.
• Exercise caution around animals with nearby young or nests as they may become aggressive when protecting their territory.
• Research the region you are visiting to learn about the local wildlife.
• Take extra care if you are in an area where bears have been sighted.
• Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife, including marine animals and birds.
• Adhere to park regulations.

Passport Validity

To enter Cape Verde, your passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months from the date of entry.

Visas

If you hold a British Citizen passport, you do not need a visa to visit Cape Verde for up to 30 days as a visitor.

Before your travel, you need to complete a Traveller Pre-registration form and pay the airport security tax (TSA) if arriving by air. Please note that this requirement does not apply to children aged 1 and under or residents of Cape Verde.

If you are traveling with a tour operator, check if they can complete the pre-registration form on your behalf. For more information on the pre-registration process, refer to the provided information leaflet.

If you hold a different type of British passport, are traveling for a purpose other than tourism, or plan to stay longer than 90 days, it is advisable to check the entry requirements with the nearest Cape Verde Embassy.

Yellow Fever Certificate Requirements

Visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website to determine if you need a yellow fever certificate.

Health Risks

Since August 2022, there has been an increase in cases of Shigellosis, a type of dysentery, among travelers returning from Cape Verde. Reports indicate that most cases are linked to the Santa Maria region on the island of Sal. It is important to follow the health advice provided by the National Travel Health Network and Centre and take standard precautions for food, water, and personal hygiene. This includes washing hands regularly and using bottled water for drinking and oral hygiene.

Passport

To enter Chile, your passport must have an expiry date that is after the day you plan to leave the country.

Visa

For stays up to 90 days, you can visit Chile without a visa. Upon arrival, the Chilean immigration authorities will provide you with a tourist card (tarjeta de turismo), which is a white A5-sized form. Keep this card safe and present it when you leave the country. In case of loss, you can request a copy online through the Chilean police investigations (PDI) website or visit the nearest PDI office.

British-Chilean Dual Nationality

If you have dual nationality of British and Chilean, you must enter and leave Chile using your Chilean passport. Please note that Chilean entry and exit requirements for dual nationals may change without notice. For further information, contact the Chilean Embassy in the UK.

Travelling with Children

If you are traveling with children aged 17 and under, check the website of the Chilean Ministry of Foreign Affairs (website in Spanish) for the necessary documents you need to show.

Travelling with Dual National Children

Before a dual national child aged 17 or under leaves Chile, they must obtain authorization to travel from a Chilean notary (notaría) if they are traveling alone, with only one parent or guardian, or with friends or relatives. If a child was born in Chile, they must have a Chilean passport to leave the country.

Vaccinations

It is advisable to check the latest information on vaccinations and health risks at least 8 weeks before your trip. Visit TravelHealthPro’s Chile guide for up-to-date information. You should also check where to get vaccines and whether you need to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page.

Laws and Cultural Differences

Personal ID

Always carry a photocopy of the photo page of your passport with you.

Alcohol Laws and Bans

Drinking alcohol in public places, including streets, roads, squares, and promenades, is illegal in Chile.

LGBTQ+ Travellers

Same-sex relationships are legal in Chile and are increasingly accepted socially, although some parts of Chilean society remain conservative. For more advice, refer to the guidance available for LGBTQ+ travelers on the UK Government website.

Passport

Visa

British nationals require a visa to enter mainland China, including Hainan Island. However, visas are not required for Hong Kong or Macao.

Visa applicants aged between 14 and 70 must apply in person at a Visa Application Centre and provide biometric data (scanned fingerprints). Chinese Visa Application Centres in London, Manchester, and Edinburgh are open, but the Belfast centre is closed.

Biometric data may be collected by immigration authorities upon entry into China.

Visa-free transit and transiting airside have resumed since 8 January 2023. All travelers must comply with entry requirements without exemptions.

If you visit Hong Kong from mainland China and wish to return, you will need a visa allowing a second entry into China.

It is essential to check visa details carefully to avoid overstaying or working illegally. Regular checks are conducted by authorities, and violations may result in fines, detention, or deportation.

Health

COVID-19

As of 30 August 2023, COVID-19 entry requirements have been removed. Testing before boarding flights is no longer necessary.

Check the latest information on risk from COVID-19 for mainland China on the TravelHealthPro website.

See the TravelHealthPro website for further advice on travel abroad and reducing spread of respiratory viruses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Yellow fever certificate requirements

Check whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Health Declaration Form

Travelers are still required to complete the Health Declaration Form via the China Customs website or through the China Customs App, WeChat, or Alipay account.

Laws & Cultural Differences

ID and Activities

Carrying a valid passport at all times is mandatory, as photocopies are not considered valid. Random ID checks by the police may occur.

Sensitive Activities

Engaging in sensitive activities or visiting sensitive areas may attract scrutiny from authorities. This includes taking photographs near sensitive sites and engaging with political groups or charities.

Offenses

Preaching, distributing religious materials, and supporting political statements critical of China may be considered offenses under Chinese law.

Dual Nationality

China does not recognize dual nationality. Entering China with a Chinese passport or identity card may limit assistance from the British Embassy. Those born in China to a Chinese national parent are considered Chinese citizens even if entering with a British passport. Renouncing Chinese citizenship requires clear evidence.

Arrest and Detention

Chinese laws and procedures differ from those in the UK regarding arrest and detention. Chinese authorities can prevent individuals from leaving China, detain them without charge for up to 37 days, and impose exit bans.

Exit bans can be used in criminal and civil matters and may last for months or years. Detention on grounds of national security may occur for up to 6 months before formal arrest.

Penalties for Drugs Offenses

Severe penalties, including the death penalty, apply to drugs offenses in China. Random drug testing can be conducted on foreign nationals at the point of entry. Police raids on properties and establishments may occur, with severe consequences for those found with drugs or in breach of visa conditions.

Internet Access

China maintains controls on internet access, permanently blocking services like Google, Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter.

Cyber security laws in China are changing, and licensing is required for online products and services. Compliance with Chinese law is necessary.

LGBTQ+

While homosexuality is not prohibited by law, public attitudes may be less tolerant. Negative attention can be attracted by public displays of affection. There is no guarantee against discrimination based on sexual orientation.

Passport

When visiting Colombia, ensure that your passport is valid upon entry. It must have a validity of more than 6 months beyond your expected departure date to avoid being stranded.

Visa

British nationals can enter Colombia as visitors for up to 90 days without a visa. The decision is made at the discretion of the Colombian Immigration Officer upon arrival. You may be required to provide evidence of return or onward travel.

If you receive a Colombian visa with a validity exceeding 90 days, you must register the visa at a Migración Colombia office or online within 15 days of arrival. Failure to do so may result in fines. Check the latest entry requirements with the Colombian Consulate General in London before your trip.

Zika Virus and Other Diseases

Colombia is classified as having a risk of Zika virus transmission by UK health authorities. Visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre website for information and advice.

Dengue fever, malaria, and yellow fever are present throughout Colombia. The most affected areas are coastal and southern states with lower altitudes, particularly during or after the rainy season from April to November. Take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been confirmed in Colombia. Take steps to prevent mosquito bites.

Drinking Water Safety

Tap water is safe to drink only in Bogota. It is recommended to consume bottled water and avoid ice in drinks.

Yellow fever certificate requirements

Check whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website. Under International Health Regulations (2005), a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers aged 1 year or over arriving from Angola, Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Uganda and for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Local laws and customs

Passport Validity Requirements

When entering Costa Rica, your passport should have an expiry date that is at least 1 day after your planned departure.

Ensure that your passport and other travel documents meet the necessary requirements by checking with your travel provider. Renew your passport if needed.

Entry will be denied if you possess an invalid travel document or attempt to use a passport reported as lost or stolen.

Visa Requirements

British nationals are not required to obtain a visa to enter Costa Rica. You can stay as a visitor for up to 180 days under a tourist visa waiver. The final duration is determined by the immigration officer upon arrival.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Costa Rica guide.

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Medication

Prescriptions from the UK cannot be used locally. To find a pharmacy (‘farmacia’) look for one of the big national chains such as Farmacia Fischel, Farmacia Sucre, FarmaValue, Farmacia Saba, or Farmacia Santa Lucia, among others; a quick search online should help you to identify the nearest one open.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Costa Rica. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Laws and Cultural Differences

As a foreigner, it is necessary to carry identification such as your passport. In most cases, a photocopy will be accepted by the police. Keep the original document in a safe place in case verification is requested.

LGBTQ+ Travellers

Costa Rica is generally welcoming of LGBTQ+ travellers. For further advice tailored to LGBTQ+ travellers, refer to the resources on the UK Government website.

Passport Validity

To visit Côte d’Ivoire, it is important to ensure that your passport remains valid for a minimum period of six months from the date of your arrival into the country. It is crucial to keep your passport safe, as criminals may use it to commit fraudulent activities using your identity.

Visa Requirements

As a visitor, you will need to obtain a visa to enter Côte d’Ivoire. If you do not already have a visa, you can apply for one through the e-visa service available online before your travel. This service is available in English. It is important to note that if you are not a national of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), you must hold a valid visa or have received approval for an e-visa application for Côte d’Ivoire before your travel.

To ensure a smooth process, it is recommended to apply for the e-visa online several days in advance of your intended travel date, allowing sufficient time for your application to be processed. It is crucial to carefully follow the instructions provided on the website to avoid any difficulties with airlines or immigration authorities.

Health

Passport Validity Requirements

To travel to Croatia, it is important to adhere to the Schengen area passport requirements. When entering Croatia (as well as all Schengen countries), your passport must meet the following criteria:

• Passports must have a ‘date of issue’ that is less than 10 years prior to the date of your arrival.
• Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are valid for a maximum of 10 years.
• For passports issued before 1 October 2018, additional months may have been added if the passport was renewed early.
• The ‘expiry date’ on your passport must be at least 3 months after the date you plan to leave Croatia.

If your passport does not meet these requirements, it is recommended to contact the Croatian embassy in the UK for further assistance.

Visa Requirements

For travel to the Schengen area, including Croatia, you are generally allowed to stay without a visa for a period of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

If you are planning to travel to Croatia and other Schengen countries without a visa, ensure that your entire visit falls within the 90-day limit. It is important to note that visits to Schengen countries within the 180 days prior to your travel are counted towards your total 90-day limit.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Croatia guide.

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for a minimum of 6 months from the date of entry into Cuba.

Visas

If you are planning to enter Cuba as a tourist, it is mandatory to obtain a tourist card before your travel. You can apply for a tourist card through the Cuban Embassy in London or consult your travel agent or tour operator for assistance.

For further information and advice regarding visas, it is recommended to contact the Cuban Embassy directly.

Cuban Customs Regulations

Upon entry to Cuba, please be aware of the following customs regulations:

• Certain electrical items with heavy power consumption might be confiscated.
• Global Positioning Systems (GPS) are subject to import requirements and may be confiscated. Confiscated items are typically returned upon departure.
• Mobile telephones, tablets, and laptops are allowed in Cuba, but any inbuilt GPS should be disconnected or disabled.
• For additional information on Cuban customs regulations, including the list of prohibited and regulated items, you can visit the Cuban Customs, Ministry of Tourism, or Tourism Portal websites.
• You may also reach out to Cuban customs via email at: publico@agr.aduana.cu.

Traveling to Cuba from the USA

Please note that US law prohibits direct travel from the USA to Cuba for tourism purposes. This restriction applies to both US nationals and foreign nationals who are either residents in the USA or transiting through the USA to reach Cuba. However, UK nationals traveling directly between the UK and Cuba, or via other countries, are not affected by this US legislation.

Under certain conditions, travel from the USA to Cuba is permitted, including on direct flights between the two countries. However, all travelers on these routes, whether US citizens or foreign nationals, must comply with US law and travel for one of the 12 permitted reasons or categories of travel. It’s important to note that tourism is not one of these permitted reasons/categories.

Health

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website.

UK health authorities have classified Cuba as having a risk of dengue and Zika virus transmission. You should take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. Access to some basic medications is limited in Cuba so you should bring anything you will need with you, including insect repellent. For more information and advice, visit the website of the National Travel Health Network and Centre website.

To control the spread of mosquito-borne diseases, the Cuban authorities may carry out chemical fumigation measures across the island, but this has been less frequent due to fuel shortages. The chemicals used may cause some discomfort if you come into contact with them.

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been confirmed in Cuba.

Cases of cholera were reported in parts of the country in 2015.

Yellow fever certificate requirements

Check whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website

Passport Validity Requirements

Ensure that your passport remains valid for the entire duration of your stay in Curaçao. Entry into Curaçao will be denied if you do not have a valid travel document or attempt to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa Requirements

You can stay in Curaçao for up to 90 days within a calendar year without a visa. If you plan to extend your stay beyond 90 days, you can request an extension at the immigration office. To be eligible for the extension, you must provide proof of travel insurance that covers the duration of your extended stay.

Digital Immigration Card

It is mandatory to complete a digital immigration card at least 48 hours before your arrival in Curaçao. This requirement applies whether you are visiting or transiting through Curaçao.

For more information on visa requirements, please refer to more information on visa requirements.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Curaçao guide.

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Curaçao. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Passport Validity Requirements

To travel to the Czech Republic, you must adhere to the Schengen area passport requirements. When entering the Czech Republic (as well as all Schengen countries), your passport must meet the following criteria:

• ‘The passport should have been issued less than 10 years before your arrival date. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are valid for only 10 years. However, if your passport was issued before this date, additional months may have been added if you renewed your passport early.
• The passport must have an expiry date that is at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave.

Ensure that you verify with your travel provider whether your passport and other travel documents meet the necessary requirements. If required, consider renewing your passport before your trip.

Visa Requirements

For visits to the Schengen area, including the Czech Republic, you can travel without a visa for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period.

If you plan to travel to the Czech Republic and other Schengen countries without a visa, ensure that your entire visit remains within the 90-day limit. It’s important to note that visits to any Schengen country within the 180 days prior to your travel are counted towards your 90-day limit.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Czech Republic guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of the Czech Republic. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions such as powdered baby milk, baby food and special foods or pet feed required for medical reasons.

Passport validity requirements

To travel to Denmark, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

To enter Denmark (and all Schengen countries) your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave

Contact Denmark’s embassy in the UK if your passport does not meet both these requirements.

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area (including Denmark) for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

If you’re travelling to Denmark and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

Applying for a visa

Use the Danish visa application service to apply for a visa.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Denmark guide

Health insurance cards

Apply for a free UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before leaving the UK. If you already have an EHIC, it will still be valid as long as it remains in date

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Denmark. You can read more information about customs duties from the Danish government. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty, including large amounts of cash and valuables.

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Dominica, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You do not need a visa to visit Dominica. The border authorities will grant you a stay of 6 months on arrival. If you want to stay longer, you must arrange and pay for an extension with the Dominica Immigration Division.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Dominica guide.

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever certificate.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Dominica. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Laws and cultural differences

Laws on clothing

It is illegal for anyone, including children, to dress in camouflage clothing.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

There are severe penalties for drug offences. Pack all your luggage yourself and do not carry anything through customs for anyone else.

LGBT+ travellers

Attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community are mostly conservative throughout the Caribbean. Certain same-sex sexual acts are illegal. LGBTQ+ travellers should be mindful of local attitudes and be aware that showing affection in public may attract unwanted and negative attention.

Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK government website.

Passport validity

If you are visiting the Dominican Republic, your passport should be valid for a minimum of six months from the date you arrive.

Visas

British Citizens travelling to the Dominican Republic for tourism don’t need a visa.

As of April 2018, the tourism entry tax (previously known as a tourist card) is no longer collected upon arrival and should be included in your air fare. Contact your airline or tour operator if you’re unsure whether you have already paid this fee. The Dominican Republic Embassy website has more information.

E-Ticket

All travellers will need to fill in the online entry form before travel to the Dominican Republic, which includes the COVID Traveller’s Health Affidavit, the Customs Declaration and the International Boarding / Disembarking forms and can be completed via the Dominican Republic’s Electronic Ticket Portal, before your journey.

Travelling with children

According to the Dominican Republic authorities, visitors under 18 travelling to the Dominican Republic don’t need written authorisation from their parents, as long as they enter and leave with the same person or people. If visitors between the ages of 13 and 18 are travelling alone, or in a group with no one over 18, then parental authorisation is not required as long as the group remains the same on entry and exit.

Health

Health risks

UK health authorities have classified Dominican Republic as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. For information and advice about the risks associated with Zika virus, visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre website.

https://bcc.bolsovercruiseclub.com/princess-cruises-pre-registration/Cases of chikungunya virus and dengue fever have been confirmed in Dominican Republic. You should take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity

Both visitors and residents must have a minimum of 6 months’ validity on their passport from the date of entry.

This is a strict legal requirement from the Ecuadorean government. If your passport does not meet this requirement, you will be denied entry to Ecuador.

Visas

If you are a British passport holder visiting Ecuador for up to 90 days in any 12 month period, you do not need a visa. If you plan to stay longer, you should consult the nearest Ecuadorean Embassy before travelling.

Health

Vaccinations

There are no vaccination requirements to enter Ecuador.

Zika Virus

UK health authorities have classified Ecuador as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. For more information and advice, visit the website of the National Travel Health Network and Centre website.

Yellow fever

The Ecuadorean authorities recommend travellers have a yellow fever vaccination if travelling to some areas in the Amazon region. A yellow fever vaccination is obligatory when entering Ecuador from endemic countries such as Brazil, Dominican Republic, Congo, Uganda, etc).

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive.

Visa requirements

British passport holders travelling to Egypt normally need a visa. Visa processing fees are non-refundable.

We advise you to get a visa before you travel, particularly if travelling for work or business. You can apply for a visa from the official Visa2Egypt portal or at your nearest Egyptian Consulate. Tourist visas granted using the e-visa system are valid for a maximum of 3 months.

The online e-visa portal (Visa2Egypt) does not currently accept applications from variant British passport holders (those from British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies).

All British passport holders can get a visa in advance by submitting an application in person or by post to the Egyptian Consulate in London. The specific requirements for the visa are listed on the website.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need on TravelHealthPro’s Egypt guide. Depending on the country you’re arriving from, this may include a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Laws and cultural differences

Egypt is predominantly an Islamic country. It is illegal to encourage conversion to the Christian faith.

Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times. Make sure your actions do not cause offence, especially during Ramadan or when you visit religious areas.

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas, mosques and souqs (markets). Public displays of affection are frowned on. What may be acceptable in the tourist resort areas may not be in other areas.

Personal ID

Police regularly carry out ID checks. Keep valid photo ID with you at all times.

Alcohol laws and bans

Drinking alcohol anywhere other than a licensed restaurant or bar is illegal and can lead to arrest.

Criticising the Egyptian government

Making political or negative comments about the Egyptian government, including about the President or security forces, can cause trouble with the authorities. People have faced prison sentences for making insulting comments on social media.

Restrictions on photography

You need a permit for professional photography or film equipment. This includes photography umbrellas, artificial outdoor lighting gear, and any equipment that occupies or blocks public roads.

You are not allowed to take or share photographs that could be considered damaging to the country’s image. You can only take photographs of Egyptian citizens can if you have their written permission. Do not photograph officials without their consent. Taking pictures of children is not allowed.

Photography of, or near, military property is strictly banned. This includes the Suez Canal. There are sensitivities about taking photographs of embassies, government buildings, churches and religious buildings. British nationals have been arrested for photographing churches, electricity stations, train stations and bridges. If you are in any doubt, get permission before taking photographs.

LGBTQ+

Same-sex sexual activity is not explicitly criminalised in Egypt, but LGBTQ+ people have been prosecuted under the law of ‘debauchery���. People have been arrested for flying rainbow flags at public events on debauchery charges.

There is little public acceptance of homosexuality in Egypt. Public expressions of homosexuality or displays of affection between same-sex couples are likely to get negative attention. See the UK Government information and advice page for the LGBT+ community before you travel.

Be cautious about sharing content or having discussions of a sexual nature on social media, especially about sexual acts that are considered illegal. Some travellers have been arrested and imprisoned for this.

Passport validity requirements

To travel to Estonia, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

To enter Estonia (and all Schengen countries) your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave

Contact the Estonian Embassy in London if your passport does not meet both these requirements.

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area (including Estonia) for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

If you are travelling to Estonia and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check:

• the latest information on health risks and what vaccinations you need on TravelHealthPro’s Estonia guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Estonia. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into the EU

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

Laws and cultural differences

LGBTQ+ travellers

Same-sex relationships are legal in Estonia, and same-sex marriages will be recognised from 1 January 2024.

Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK government website.

Passport validity

You should ensure that your passport and other travel documents meet entry requirements for the Falkland Islands.

If you are visiting the Falkland Islands, your passport should be valid from the date you arrive and for the proposed duration of your stay. No additional period of validity beyond this is required.

Visas

There are more information about visa and visitor permits on the Falkland Islands Government Website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive in Fiji.

Visa requirements

You do not need a visa for visits of up to 4 months. If you plan to stay for longer than 4 months, apply for a visa from the Fiji High Commission in the UK.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Fiji guide.

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever certificate.

Health risks include:

• dengue
• Zika virus
• chikungunya

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Fiji. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Laws and cultural differences

Kava drinking ceremonies

Kava is a traditional drink in Fiji used in kava ceremonies. If you’re invited to take part in a kava drinking ceremony, be aware of the potential risks of liver toxicity.

Nudity

Topless bathing and nudity in public is illegal. Cover your shoulders and knees in rural villages and during kava ceremonies.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Homosexuality was decriminalised in February 2010, but there can be local sensitivities, particularly when visiting rural communities.

Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers.

Passport validity requirements

To travel to Finland, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

To enter Finland (and all Schengen countries) your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave

Contact the Embassy of Finland in London if your passport does not meet both these requirements.

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area (including Finland) for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

If you’re travelling to Finland and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

Travelling with children

Minors can enter Finland with an adult who is not their legal guardian (such as a grandparent). You should carry a letter of consent from their parents or legal guardians.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Finland guide.

Passport validity requirements

If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

Your passport must be:

• issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
• valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

Check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.

Contact the French Embassy in the UK if you think that your passport does not meet both these requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area, which France is part of, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

If you are travelling to France and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

To stay longer (to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons), you will need to meet the French government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa you may need on the France Visas website.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of France. Check the French Directorate General of Customs and Excise website. Declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into the EU

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food required for medical reasons. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

You must be able to prove your identity either by providing documents when asked or within 4 hours at a police station. Identity documents can be:

• passport
• photo driving licence
• other documentation provided by a government body

Covering your face in public

Covering your face in public places in France is illegal. This includes balaclavas, full veils or any other garment or mask that is used to hide the face. You can be fined up to €150 euros if you don’t comply. Forcing someone to hide their face is also a crime and is punishable by a year’s imprisonment and a fine of up to €30,000 euros. If the person forced to hide their face is under 18 years old, the sentence is doubled. This law applies to tourists.

Passport validity

Travellers should ensure that their passport has at least 3 months of validity after the date you intend to leave French Polynesia.

Visas

French Polynesia is an Overseas Collective (collectivité d’outre-mer) of France.

If you hold a British Citizen passport, you don’t need a visa to enter French Polynesia for stays of up to three months. Other British passport holders, and those who plan to stay longer than three months, should check the current entry requirements on the website of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and, if necessary, confirm with the nearest French Diplomatic mission.

Health

Yellow fever certificate requirements

Check whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Other health risks

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been confirmed in French Polynesia. You should take appropriate precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

Diving is a popular pastime in the Territory but you should be aware that the only decompression facility is located in Papeete and that in the event of an accident it might take some time to reach from some of the popular diving sites located on other islands.

Passport validity

If you are visiting The Gambia, your passport should be valid for the proposed duration of your stay.

Visas

For visits of less than a month, you don’t need to get a visa before you travel. British nationals are given a 28 day stamp in their passports on arrival. You can get further 28 day extensions from the Immigration Office in Banjul or the Tourist Police Stations in the Tourism Development Area.

Health

Vaccinations

Check the latest information on vaccinations for The Gambia on the TravelHealthPro website

Yellow fever certificate requirements

Check whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Other health risks

Malaria is present in all areas of The Gambia throughout the year.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

If you plan to visit an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

Your passport must be:

• issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
• valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

You must check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.

Contact the German Embassy in the UK if you think that your passport does not meet both these requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

If you are travelling to Germany and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check what vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need in TravelHealthPro’s Germany guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into and out of Germany. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into the EU

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food needed for medical reasons. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

You don’t have to carry your passport with you in Germany. However, if you’re asked to show your passport and don’t have it with you, police may escort you to where your passport is being kept so that you can show it to them.

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Ghana.

Visas

You need a visa to enter Ghana. Ghana’s UK visa service is operating. Visit the Ghana High Commission website to stay up to date and to make an online application.

Yellow fever certificate requirements

You will be expected to present a yellow fever certificate on arrival in and departure from Ghana.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check what vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need in TravelHealthPro’s Ghana guide.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must be valid for the period of your stay in Gibraltar.

Visa requirements

Gibraltar is not part of the Schengen area. British nationals do not need a visa to enter Gibraltar for visits, study or work.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Gibraltar guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Gibraltar. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

If you return to Gibraltar within one calendar month, you may only use your duty-free allowance on your first visit that month.

See more information on personal allowances for visitors to Gibraltar on HM Government of Gibraltar’s website.

Gibraltar is not part of the EU Customs Union. If you travel from Gibraltar to Spain, declare any duty-free goods to Spanish customs officers.

If you are returning directly to the UK from Gibraltar, see information on bringing goods into the UK.

Laws and cultural differences

LGBTQ+ travellers

Same-sex relationships are legal. There is an active LGBTQ+ community, but due to the small size of Gibraltar, there are few places which are exclusively LGBTQ+ orientated.

Passport validity requirements

If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

Your passport must be:

• issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
• valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

You must check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

If you are travelling to Greece and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Greece. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into the EU

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food required for medical reasons. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

Carry a copy of your passport or other photographic ID which confirms British nationality at all times, this is a legal requirement.

LGBTQ+

Same-sex sexual relations are legal in Greece and civil unions between same-sex couples have been legal since 2015. The age of consent in Greece is 15, this applies to partners of both the same sex and opposite sex. Transgender people are able to change their legal gender. Anti-discrimination and hate speech laws apply to gender identity.

Public attitudes towards same-sex sexual activity vary throughout the country; showing affection in public by same-sex couples may be frowned upon, especially in rural areas.

Attitudes are generally much more welcoming in Athens and on many Greek islands, particularly on Lesvos, Mykonos and Skiathos. See the UK government information and advice page for the LGBTQ+ community before you travel.

Passport validity requirements

To visit Grenada, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Visa requirements

You can visit Grenada without a visa.

On entry, you’ll be allowed to stay for a maximum period of 3 months.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Grenada guide.

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever certificate.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Grenada. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Laws and cultural differences

Laws on clothing

It’s illegal for anyone, including children, to dress in camouflage clothing.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Local attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community are mostly conservative throughout the Caribbean. Certain same-sex sexual acts are illegal in Grenada. Showing affection in public may attract unwanted and negative attention. It is uncommon for opposite or same-sex couples to show affection in public in Grenada.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Passport validity

Travellers should ensure that their passport has at least 3 months of validity after the date you intend to leave Guadeloupe.#

Visas

Guadeloupe is an Overseas Department of France (département d’outre-mer) and part of the European Union.

If your passport describes you as a British Citizen, you will not need a visa to enter Guadeloupe for stays of up to three months. Other British passport holders, and those who plan to stay longer than three months, should check the current entry requirements on the website of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and if necessary confirm with the nearest French Diplomatic mission.

Vaccination requirements

Check whether you need any vaccinations by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you arrive in Guatemala and at least 2 blank pages.

Visa requirements

You can visit Guatemala for up to 90 days without a visa.

Travelling with children

To enter or exit Guatemala, children aged 17 and under travelling alone or with only one parent or legal guardian must have a notarised letter in Spanish from the parents or guardians not travelling with them. Contact the Guatemalan Embassy, or if you’re in Guatemala the nearest Institute of Migration (in Spanish), for information about what documents you need. Single parents will need additional documents.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Guatemala guide.

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever certificate.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

It is a legal requirement to always carry ID. In most parts of the country, you can carry a copy of your passport’s photo page for identification purposes. In San Pedro La Laguna, Sololá, local authorities may not accept a copy and may fine or detain you if you cannot show your original passport or a certified copy. Always co-operate with military and police officers and be prepared for checkpoints.

Taking photos without permission

Do not take photographs without permission, especially of children. This is particularly important in more remote areas such as Quiché, Petén, San Marcos and Chiquimula provinces. There have been attacks related to accusations and fears of child kidnapping for adoption or theft of vital organs. Foreigners have been caught up in the violence. You may need to pay a small amount of money to take photographs of both children and adults.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Homosexuality is not illegal, although there are no laws guaranteeing freedom from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. Same-sex marriages are not recognised in Guatemala. In Guatemala City, local people are largely tolerant of different lifestyles. Outside Guatemala City, attitudes are more conservative. Showing affection in public may bring verbal and physical attacks, harassment and discrimination.

Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers.

Passport validity

If you are visiting Guyana, your passport should be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive.

Visas

British nationals do not need visas to visit Guyana. Visitors are generally given 30 days to remain in Guyana, but extensions can usually be obtained from the Ministry of Home Affairs in Georgetown. The Guyanese authorities are very severe on visitors who overstay or abuse the conditions of their stay. Conviction for overstaying will result in one year imprisonment, a fine of up to G$50,000 (Guyana dollars) and deportation – at the deportee’s expense – upon release.

Vaccination requirements

Check the vaccination requriements for Guyana by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Visa requirements

You do not need a visa to visit Haiti for up to 90 days.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Haiti guide.

Depending on your circumstances, these may include a yellow fever certificate.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

You should always carry proof of your identity. Keep a copy of the photo page of your passport and visa stamp separately in a safe place.

LGBTQ+

Local attitudes towards the LGBT+ community are mostly conservative throughout the Caribbean. In Haiti, same-sex sexual activity is legal. However, the attitude of many Haitians to the LGBT+ community is hostile.

LGBTQ+ travellers should be mindful of local attitudes and be aware that showing affection in public could result in unwanted and negative attention.

It is uncommon for opposite or same-sex couples to show affection in public.

Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK goverment website.

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must be valid for at least one month after the date you plan to leave Hong Kong.

Visa requirements

Hong Kong is part of the People’s Republic of China, but it is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) with its own immigration controls.

You can visit Hong Kong for up to 6 months without a visa. For information on entry requirements see the Hong Kong SAR government website.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Hong Kong guide.

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever certificate.

Laws and cultural differences

Criticising the government

Some people have been prosecuted for publishing or supporting statements that are critical of the Hong Kong or Chinese authorities, including online.

Public offences

You can be fined on the spot for littering and spitting.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Do not become involved with illegal drugs of any kind. This includes cannabidiol (CBD). Possession of drugs can lead to a prison sentence.

Using cameras in secure areas

Do not take photographs of military installations.

Passport validity requirements

To travel to Hungary, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

To enter Hungary (and all Schengen countries) your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave

Contact the Hungarian Embassy in the UK if your passport does not meet both these requirements.

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area (including Hungary) for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

If you’re travelling to Hungary and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Hungary guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Hungary, including pets, hunting weapons, alcohol and tobacco products and medicines containing drugs. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. More information is available from the National Tax and Customs Administration of Hungary.

Taking food and drink into the EU

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food required for medical reasons. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

Carry your passport at all times. You must show ID if requested. A photocopy is not acceptable.

LGBTQ+

Same-sex relationships and civil partnerships are legal in Hungary but same-sex marriages are not recognised in Hungarian law. Budapest is generally tolerant and open. Recent Pride events have passed without incident, but historically there have been counter-events which have led to verbal, and sometimes physical, confrontation. Outside of Budapest, public affection may receive unwanted attention. Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK government website.

Passport validity requirements

To travel to Iceland, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

To enter Iceland (and all Schengen countries) your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave

Contact Iceland’s embassy in the UK if your passport does not meet both these requirements.

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

If you are travelling to Iceland and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Iceland guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Iceland. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Laws and cultural differences

Smoking and e-cigarette bans

It is illegal to smoke or use e-cigarettes in restaurants, bars, public transport and public buildings. Anyone caught smoking will be asked to leave and could be fined.

Passport validity requirements

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into India.

Your passport must also: – have 2 blank pages for your visa

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

Apply for the right type of visa for the purpose of your travel.

You need a visa to travel to India unless you are an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder.

India has a number of visa categories. Make sure you get the right visa for the purpose and duration of your travel.

Penalties for having the wrong visa can include refusal of entry or deportation. This may also include not being allowed to enter India in the future.

For latest information on Indian visas and immigration requirements, see the e-FRRO online portal (part of the Indian Foreigners Registration Office), the Bureau of Indian Immigration website and Indian Ministry of External Affairs website.

Applying for a visa or e-visa

Find out how to apply for a visa from the Indian Bureau of Immigration. Depending on your requirements you may be able to apply for:

• regular (paper) visa
• e-visa (make sure to check the website’s ‘FAQs’ for restrictions on airports and seaports of entry)

Check your eligibility and any restrictions before you apply and allow plenty of time for your application to be processed.

Exit requirements

You will pass through immigration as you depart India. Officials will check when you entered the country. If you do not have an entry stamp, for example if you have a newly issued passport, you will need to apply for special exit visa before you travel. This must be done online and can take between five and fifteen working days for straightforward applications. Factor this into your timeframe to leave India when you are booking flights. For further information see the e-FRRO online portal (part of the Indian Foreigners Registration Office).

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro (from the UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre).

Depending on your circumstances, these may include:

• polio
• yellow fever

The Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare also provides vaccination guidance and data.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of India. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking money into India

There are restrictions on bringing Indian rupees into India.

Visitors, including tourists, must not bring any amount of Indian currency into the country. If you’re resident in India, you can bring up to 25,000 rupees into the country.

If you’re visiting India, you can bring cash, travellers’ cheques (in pounds sterling or another foreign currency) or a bank card with you and exchange or withdraw rupees once in India.

You must declare any amount above 5,000 US dollars in notes, or 10,000 US dollars in notes and travellers’ cheques combined.

Laws and cultural differences

There may be serious legal penalties for doing something which may not be illegal in the UK.

Dress code

Women travelling in India should respect local customs and dress codes.

Smoking and e-cigarette bans

Smoking is banned in most public places. You should only smoke in designated smoking areas.

E-cigarettes and related products are banned. You will be unable to buy e-cigarettes in India or bring them into the country.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Same-sex relationships are legal in India. However same-sex marriage is still illegal. Indian society remains conservative. This includes attitudes to LGBTQ+ people, which can be less accepting than in the UK. There is a risk of harassment and discrimination, especially outside of big cities.

Showing affection in public can receive unwanted attention.

Read advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK government website.

Passport validity requirements

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Indonesia.

Dual nationality

Indonesian law does not allow dual nationality for those aged 18 and older. If you are a British national who has retained Indonesian nationality, you could have difficulties with immigration in Indonesia. You might have to renounce your nationality or hand in your Indonesian passport.

Visa requirements

E-visas

You can apply for an e-visa before arrival on the Indonesian immigration website.

Visas on arrival

British nationals who visit Indonesia for the following reasons can also apply for a visa on arrival at a cost of 500,000 (£25) Indonesian rupiah:

• tourism
• official visit or government duties
• business or official meeting
• procurement of goods
• transit

The visa is valid for 30 days. It can be extended once (for a maximum of 30 days) by making an application to an immigration office within Indonesia. Make sure you extend your visa within the initial 30 days to avoid an overstay fine of 1 million rupiah (£50) a day.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro.

Depending on your circumstances, these may include:

• polio
• yellow fever
• Zika virus

Laws and cultural differences

Religious holidays

Ramadan

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. During this time, do not:

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
• play loud music or dance
• swear in public

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

You should also:

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
• be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk
• be patient and show tolerance

Personal ID

You must be able to show your valid travel document (passport) or stay permit (such as KITAS or KITAP) at any time when needed to do so by an active immigration officer.

Alcohol laws and bans

In the province of Aceh consumption, production and distribution of alcohol are all illegal under Sharia law. Punishment following a Sharia court process is public caning.

LGBTQ+ travellers

The province of Aceh enforces Sharia law. It is the only province in Indonesia to do so and the laws apply to both Muslims and non-Muslims.

Homosexual activity is illegal under Sharia law. Punishment following a Sharia court process includes public caning, prison sentence or a fine which should be paid in gold.

Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK government website.

ID requirements

If you are a British citizen, you do not need a passport to enter Ireland. However, some carriers and airlines might require identification. Irish immigration officers check the ID of all passengers arriving by air from the UK and might ask for proof of British nationality, particularly if you were born outside the UK. You should take your British passport with you. Check the Ireland Citizens Information Board for guidance on acceptable ID.

You do not need ID to cross the border between Northern Ireland and Ireland.

Visa requirements

British citizens do not need a visa to visit Ireland. Ireland, along with the UK, is a member of the Common Travel Area (CTA). UK nationals do not need a visa or residency permit to live, work or study in Ireland.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Ireland guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Ireland. Find out about customs rules from the Irish Revenue. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Safety & Security

Regions Advised Against Travel by FCDO

Gaza

The FCDO strongly advises against all travel to Gaza.

Areas Adjacent to Gaza

The FCDO recommends against all travel to areas near the Gaza border, which include:

• Southwest of Ashkelon
• South of route 35 and west of route 40 up to Tlalim, excluding Be’er Sheva
• West of Be’er Sheva
• North of route 211
• The West Bank

The FCDO advises against all travel to the West Bank, with the exception of East Jerusalem and Route 1 connecting Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

Northern Israel

The FCDO discourages all travel to the following areas in Northern Israel:

• Within 5km of the Lebanon border – announced as a closed military zone by the Israeli military, prohibiting entry
• The Sheba’a Farms and Ghajjar
• Within 500m of the Syria border (the ‘Alpha Line’)
• Communities in Northern Israel recently evacuated: Beit Hillel, Dan, Eilon, Even Menachem, Goren, Granot Ha’Galil, HaGoshrim, Liman, Matsuva, Ramot Naftali, Sasa, She’ar Yeshuv, Snir, Tzivon
• Other Parts of Israel and the OPTs

The FCDO suggests avoiding all but essential travel to other areas of Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs).

Passport validity

If you are visiting Israel/Occupied Palestinian Territories, your passport should be valid for a minimum of six months from the date you arrive.

Visas

You don’t need a visa to enter Israel as a tourist. On entry, visitors are granted permission to stay for a period of up to 3 months. However, if you are a dual national, please refer to the ‘Dual nationals’ section of this guidance before travelling.

Vaccinations

Check the latest vaccination information for Israel on the TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

To travel to Italy, you must follow Schengen area passport requirements.

To enter Italy (and all Schengen countries) your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area (including Italy) for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

If you are travelling to Italy and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro’s Italy guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Italy. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food into Italy

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions such as powdered baby milk, baby food, and special food or pet feed required for medical reasons.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

By law, you must always be able to show some form of identification. In most cases a photocopy of the data page of your passport should be enough, but you may also be asked for a second form of photo ID. The police will normally ask for your full passport if you are stopped while driving.

Public transport

Tickets on public transport must be validated in a ticket machine before you start a journey. Officials patrol public transport and will issue an on the spot fine of 100 to 500 euros (reduced to 50 euros if paid immediately) if you don’t hold a validated ticket.

Tourist tax

Many major cities in Italy impose a small tax on tourists. The tax is paid at your hotel and is usually not included in any pre-paid arrangements or package deal. The rate of tax varies from city to city and can depend on the star rating of the hotel. Hotels often ask for payment in cash. Make sure you get a receipt. For more information, check with the local tourist information office.

Public offences

Some Italian towns and cities have specific laws, which you may be fined if you break. For example, there may be laws to prevent you from:

• dropping litter
• sitting on monument steps
• eating and drinking next to main churches, historic monuments and public buildings
• defacing historic monuments

It’s also an offence to enter or bathe in public fountains in many towns and cities, including Florence and Rome. A fine of up to 10,000 euros can be imposed for urinating in a public place.

On the island of Capri, you must not use or bring onto the island any disposable plastic objects such as bags, cutlery, plates, cups, food packaging, trays and straws. If you do, you can be fined up to 500 euros.

Illegal traders operate on the streets of all major Italian cities. It is illegal to buy items from unlicensed street traders. If you do, you could be stopped by the local police and fined.

It’s illegal to remove sand, shells or pebbles from coastal areas in Italy. Doing so may result in large fines. It’s also forbidden to collect various species of flowers, plants and herbs from mountain and wooded areas. For more information, check with the regional authorities of the area you’re visiting.

All travellers

Since 1 September 2023, all travellers are required to complete the Immigration / Customs C5 Form online before arrival in Jamaica.  The C5 online form is free of charge and can be completed before your journey via the PICA: Enter Jamaica website. Travellers are advised only to use the official free online service and avoid misleading sites asking for payment.

Visas

British nationals don’t need a visa to visit Jamaica. Visitors are usually granted entry for a maximum of 90 days.

The date by which you must leave Jamaica will be stamped in your passport. If you wish to extend your stay beyond this date you will need to apply to the Jamaican Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency. Overstaying without the proper authority can result in arrest and/or a fine.

For further information about entry requirements, see the website of the Jamaican High Commission.

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for the proposed duration of your stay; you don’t need any additional period of validity on your passport beyond this. There needs to be room for entry and exit stamps, but there is no minimum number of blank pages required in a passport for entry.

Health

Testing and screening on arrival

The requirement for travellers to present a negative COVID test prior to travel ended on 15 April. All travellers arriving in Jamaica may still be tested for COVID-19 if assessed as high-risk as a result of exhibiting symptoms, exposure to people who have tested positive, belonging to a high-risk group or other risk factors. Travellers may be screened for symptoms at the airport.

Yellow fever certificate requirements

Check whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Health Risks

Mosquito-borne diseases, such as Zika, dengue fever and chikungunya have been confirmed in Jamaica. You should take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

UK health authorities have classified Jamaica as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. For more information and advice, visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre website.

Dengue fever is endemic to Latin America and the Caribbean and can occur throughout the year.

Customs regulations

You can bring local currency (Jamaican dollars) into the country. However, you must declare on your customs form all currencies and monetary instruments over the value of US$10,000.

Personal imports of meat and dairy products from the UK are banned. Customs officials may search baggage and will destroy banned foodstuffs.

Local laws and customs

Drugs

Passport Requirements

If you are visiting Japan, your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay. No additional period of validity beyond this is required.

Visas

The visa waiver system was reactivated from 11 October, which means that short-term visitors with British citizen passports no longer need to obtain a visa prior to travelling. This includes those coming for business, tourism, and to visit family and friends. Visas are still required for long-term stays and other purposes; please consult your nearest Japanese Consulate for guidance and how to apply.

Vaccinations

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest vaccination equirements on the TravelHealthPro website.

Health

Medication

The use or possession of some common prescription and over-the-counter medicines is banned under Japan’s strictly enforced anti-stimulant drugs law. This includes Vicks inhalers, medicines for allergies and sinus problems, cold and flu medication containing Pseudoephedrine and even some over-the-counter painkillers like those containing codeine. Foreign nationals have been detained and deported for offences. You should check the status of your medication with the nearest Japanese Embassy or Consulate before you travel.

If you are travelling with prescription medication that is permitted under Japanese law, you are normally allowed to bring in up to one month’s supply. You are advised to bring a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating the medical condition that the medication has been prescribed to treat. For more guidance on travelling with medication, check information pages from NHS Choices and the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) in the UK government foreign travel checklist.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity

If you are visiting Jordan, your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the time you arrive.

Dual nationals

If you are a British/Jordanian national, you are allowed to use your British passport on arrival, but will need to show your Jordanian passport on departure.

Visas

You can buy a single entry visit visa valid for one month on arrival at the airports or the Sheikh Hussein/North Border crossing at the Jordan/Israel border. The cost is 40 Jordanian Dinars. Some airlines may require passengers to submit a health declaration at the check-in counters.

An exit tax, currently 10 Jordanian Dinars, is payable at all border crossings, except the airports.

If you’re entering for tourism you can get a combination of a visa and reduced cost entry to the major tourism sites by applying for a Jordan Pass online.

You can extend your visa after you arrive in Jordan up to a maximum period of 6 months. If you overstay your visa you will be fined. You can apply to extend your visa using the following website. Payment is accepted online.

Vaccinations

Check latest vaccination information and if you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity

If you are visiting Kenya, your passport should be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive.

You should have at least two blank pages in your passport on arrival.

Visas

You need a visa to enter Kenya. Kenyan entry visas are exclusively issued electronically, with passengers required to obtain their e-visas before departure. You can apply for single entry and transit visas on the Kenya e-visa website.

British passport holders visiting Kenya aged 16 and over require a valid individual visa for Kenya.

For more information, see the website of the Kenyan High Commission in London.

Vaccination requirements

You may need a yellow fever certificate when entering Kenya from certain destinations. Check whether you need a yellow fever certificate and any latest vaccination requirements by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Other health risks

Cholera, malaria, dengue fever and other insect-borne infections occur in Kenya.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity

For visit visas, obtained on arrival or in advance, your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Kuwait.

Visas

British Nationals have the option of either applying for an E-visa prior to travel or obtaining a visa on arrival in Kuwait. Visit the Ministry of Interior website for more information on E-visas. On arrival in Kuwait, the immigration authorities may ask to see evidence of return or onward travel, a sponsor’s letter and hotel confirmation.

Vaccinations

Check the latest vaccinations requirements for Kuwait on the TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

Your passport should have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you enter Laos.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document, or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

Applying for a visa

You can apply online for an e-Visa – you must submit your application at least 3 days in advance of your entry to Laos.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Laos guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of country. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Health

Mosquito-borne diseases

The rainy season sees an increase in dengue cases, which have been getting more severe. Dengue and malaria are endemic, so you should increase precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

Air pollution

Regional air pollution can be a problem in some cities in Laos, and may aggravate heart, lung or respiratory conditions. Children, the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions may be especially affected. You can read guidance on how to cope with air pollution.

Laws and cultural differences

Illegal drugs and the death penalty

The possession and use of all drugs including marijuana are illegal in Laos and penalties are harsh. These include life sentences and the death penalty, with a number of Lao nationals having been sentenced to death in 2019.

For confidential support and guidance for dealing with officials, call the British Embassy in Vientiane (24 hours).

Using cameras and binoculars in secure areas

Photographing or entering any military site without an official invitation is prohibited and you may be arrested or detained. Avoid photographing bridges or airfields.

Relationships with Lao nationals

The Lao government prohibits sexual relationships between foreign and Lao nationals, except when the parties have been married in accordance with Lao family law. You must ask permission for marriage or engagement to a Lao national in a formal application to the Lao authorities.

Penalties for failing to register such a relationship can be up to 5,000 US dollars fine and possible imprisonment. It is not unknown for Lao authorities to demand entry into hotel rooms or guesthouses where they suspect this regulation is being broken.

Dress codes

When you visit any temples and religious sites, your shoulders and knees should be covered, whether you are male or female.

It is not considered appropriate to walk around in public wearing swimming costumes after leaving waterfalls, rivers or swimming pools.

LGBTQ+ travellers

There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations in Laos. Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers.

Passport validity requirements

Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months from the date you enter Lebanon.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document, or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

British citizens can normally apply for a free single-entry tourist or family visit visa on arrival at Beirut airport. A tourist visa is valid for one month from the date of entry. Travellers can extend their visa for up to three months at the General Security offices.

British citizens can also obtain a visa from the Lebanese Embassy in London. These may be valid for a different time period. Travellers should make sure they understand their visa validity to avoid any penalties for overstaying.

Travellers overstaying their visa may have to pay a fine in the local currency at the airport (please note, US dollars will not be accepted). This should be paid at departures before security procedures.

British overseas citizens and British protected persons will need to get a visa before travelling to Lebanon.

Persons of Palestinian origin may also need a visa before travelling, or to carry additional documentation with them when travelling.

Entry requirements may change at short notice. Check with the Lebanese Embassy in the UK before you travel.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Lebanon guide.

Laws and cultural differences

Ramadan

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. During this time, be aware of:

• eating, drinking, smoking or chewing gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
• playing loud music or dance
• swearing in public

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

You should also:

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time

Diversity

Lebanon’s people are diverse, with many different Muslim and Christian sects represented. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and make sure your actions do not offend.

Dress code

In many areas you will find dress codes more relaxed than in other countries of the region, but you should still dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Using cameras and drones in secure areas

Only take photographs in tourist sites. You could be arrested for photographing military sites. Flying drone cameras without permission is illegal.

LGBTQ+ travellers

The Lebanese Criminal Code includes a general provision concerning ‘every sexual act against nature’. Lebanese courts consider that this includes homosexuality. A criminal offence under this provision is punishable by a prison sentence of up to a year. The Lebanese Medical Association for Sexual Health has resources for LGBTQ+ people.

Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK government website.

Passport validity requirements

To travel to Lithuania, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

To enter Lithuania (and all Schengen countries) your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave

Contact the Embassy of Lithuania in the UK if you think that your passport does not meet both these requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document, or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

If you are travelling to Lithuania and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

Apply for a visa

To stay longer (for example, to work, study or for business) you must meet the Lithuanian government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you need with the Embassy of Lithuania in the UK.

If you stay in Lithuania with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

You can apply online at Lithuania’s Migration Department.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Lithuania guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 90 days beyond your stay in Macao.

Visas

Although Macao is now part of the People’s Republic of China, it remains a Special Administrative Region with its own immigration controls. You can stay in Macao for up to 6 months without a visa. If you intend to work in Macao you must get a visa before arrival. Contact the Macao Immigration Department.

Vaccinations

Check the latest information on vaccination requirements for Macao on the TravelHealthPro website

Health risks

Dengue fever is common in Macao. You should take precautions against mosquito bites.

Passport validity

If you are visiting Madagascar, your passport should be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive, and with at least 2 blank visa pages. You should be able to show confirmation of your travel dates.

Visas

If you are visiting Madagascar for less than 15 days, there is no visa requirement. However, travellers must pay a 10 Euro administrative fee on arrival.

Vaccinations

Check vaccination requirements for Madagascar by visiting the TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you arrive in Malaysia. Make sure your passport is undamaged, with no pages missing.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Dual nationals

Malaysia does not recognise dual nationality. You can be refused entry if you’re found with a Malaysian passport and one of a different nationality. If you have dual nationality (not including Malaysian), enter and exit on the same passport.

Visa requirements

British nationals do not need a visa to visit Malaysia. You will normally be allowed to stay for 90 days on arrival. For any longer, or for a non-tourist visit, you will need a visa.

The Malaysian authorities do not tolerate illegal immigration. Do not overstay your visa or violate the terms of entry. Even if you overstay for just a few days, you can be:

• fined
• detained
• deported to the UK at your own cost
• blacklisted for future visits to Malaysia

If you are detained, you will find facilities can be poor with limited healthcare services. The British High Commission is unable to help you to remain in Malaysia or issue any document to support your overstay.

Keep a copy of your passport and visa safe in case your passport is lost. It may take time to get a replacement visa. If you cannot show your original visa or entry stamp on exit you may be treated as an overstayer, fined and blacklisted.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Malaysia guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Malaysia. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

If you are in any doubt about the legality of any items, including medications, you should declare them on entry.

Laws and cultural differences

Malaysia is a multicultural, majority Muslim country. Respect local laws, cultures, traditions and religions.

Dress modestly, particularly in conservative and rural areas. You may be refused entry to places of worship or government offices if you do not have your shoulders and knees covered or are not wearing closed shoes. Check the signs displayed at the entrance.

If you’re a Muslim, you may be subject to local Sharia law.

Personal ID

Always carry your passport.

Ramadan

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. During this time, you should:

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
• be aware of the risks of dehydration and that fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the later afternoon and early evening

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

There are severe penalties for all drug offences, including for amphetamine-type stimulants. If you are detained following a raid on a bar or nightclub, you could have to take a urine test to check for drug use.

Possessing drugs, even in very small quantities, carries severe penalties, including:

• arrest and detention
• a long jail sentence if charged and convicted
• a possible whipping
• if drug trafficking is indicated, a possible death sentence by hanging

LGBTQ+ travellers

Same-sex sexual acts are illegal in Malaysia under federal law. The Malaysian authorities sometimes carry out raids on LGBTQ+ spaces and events. Shows of affection in public could attract negative responses from other members of the public. Openly LGBTQ+ safe spaces and support groups exist.

Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK government website.

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive in Maldives. Make sure your passport is not damaged or you may be stopped by immigration.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You will get a 30-day visa on arrival if you enter Maldives as a tourist.

For further information on entry requirements and visas, contact the Maldives immigration department.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Maldives guide.

Depending on your circumstances, these may include a yellow fever certificate.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Maldives. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

It is illegal to bring in anything deemed contrary to Islam, including ‘idols for worship’, bibles, pork and pork products, and alcohol.

Laws and cultural differences

Maldives is an Islamic country. It is illegal to publicly observe a religion other than Islam. Make sure that your actions do not offend, especially during Ramadan or when visiting religious areas around mosques. Violations of local laws may lead to a prison sentence.

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. In 2024 Ramadan is expected to take place between 11 March and 10 April in Maldives. During this time, do not eat, drink or smoke in public in the daytime, outside of holiday resorts. Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

Alcohol laws and bans

Alcoholic drinks are only available on resort islands. Do not take any alcohol out of your resort. You can be arrested and deported for possessing and drinking alcohol, or being intoxicated outside resorts and on inhabited islands.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Maldives has strong anti-drugs laws. Importing or possessing drugs carries severe penalties, up to and including life imprisonment.

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

It is illegal to take tortoiseshell jewellery or ornaments, or pieces of coral out of Maldives.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Same-sex relations are illegal and if you are convicted, you could get a fine or a lengthy prison sentence.

Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK Government website.

Local dress standards

You should be sensitive to local dress standards when outside holiday resorts, including on beaches used by locals. Men and women should:

• have shoulders covered
• avoid short or tight-fitting shorts
• have arms and upper legs covered when bathing

Nudism and topless sunbathing are not allowed anywhere, including on resort islands.

Passport validity requirements

To travel to Malta, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

To enter Malta (and all Schengen countries) your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area (including Malta) for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

If you are travelling to Malta and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

To stay longer (to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons), you will need to meet the Maltese government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you need with Malta’s high commission.

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Malta guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Malta. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

Passport validity

Travellers should ensure that their passport has at least 3 months of validity after the date you intend to leave Martinique.

Check your passport is valid for travel before you book your trip. You will need to renew your passport before travelling if you do not have enough time left on your passport.

Visas

Martinique is an Overseas Department of France (département d’outre-mer) and part of the European Union.

If you hold a British Citizen passport, you don’t need a visa to enter Martinique for stays of up to three months. Other British passport holders, and those who plan to stay longer than three months, should check the current entry requirements on the website of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and, if necessary, confirm with the nearest French Diplomatic mission.

Vaccination requirements

Check vaccination requirements for Martinique on the TravelHealthPro website.

Visas

UK passport holders don’t need a visa to enter Mauritius. On arrival, your passport will be stamped allowing entry to the country for 60 days. You’ll need to be able to provide evidence of onward or return travel.

Passport validity

If you are visiting Mauritius, your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay. No additional period of validity beyond this is required. It should have at least one blank passport page.

Vaccination requirements

Check latest vaccinations and whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

If you are visiting Mexico, your passport should be valid for the length of your stay in Mexico.

Visa requirements

If you’re visiting Mexico as a tourist, you do not need a visa.

You’ll get a stamp in your passport with the number of days you are allowed to stay.

Vaccinations

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Mexico guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Mexico. More information about altitude sickness is available from TravelHealthPro (from the UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre).

Heath risks

Health risks in Mexico include:

• Zika virus
• Chikungunya virus
• Dengue fever

Drink only boiled or bottled water and avoid ice in drinks.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

If requested by Mexican authorities, you will need to provide your passport and stamp to prove your entrance and stay, copies and photos are not accepted.

Legal status

The Mexican Police have the authority to ask for proof of legal status in Mexico at any time. Several British people have been detained for not having the relevant documentation on them. If you are a resident, you may be asked to provide your residency card issued by the Mexican government.

Smoking and e-cigarette bans

It is illegal to bring electronic cigarettes, vaping devices and solutions into Mexico or to buy and sell them. If found in your belongings by customs officials, these will be confiscated; resulting in being fined or being detained.

You can be fined up to £150 for smoking or vaping in public places.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Same-sex relations in Mexico are generally tolerated, rather than accepted. Civil unions between same-sex partners are legal in Mexico. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples may be frowned upon. Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK government website.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Monaco your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave

Contact the Monaco Embassy in the UK if your passport does not meet both these requirements.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document, or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

France handles immigration matters for Monaco. If your passport describes you as a British Citizen you will not need a visa to enter Monaco for stays of less than 90 days. To stay longer, you will need to meet entry requirements. Check which type of visa you may need on the France Visas website.

Other British passport holders should check the current entry requirements on the website of the French Foreign Ministry and if necessary confirm with the nearest French Diplomatic mission.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Monaco guide.

Customs rules

France handles customs matters for Monaco. Read the travel advice for France for information on customs rules.

Laws and cultural differences

Dress

Apart from on the beaches and in bathing areas, it is not permitted to walk about in swimsuits, stripped to the waist, or barefoot.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Montenegro, your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave

If you hold dual citizenship, the Montenegro authorities will consider you a citizen of the issuing state of the passport you used to enter Montenegro.

Visa requirements

You can enter Montenegro for a short term stay of up to 90 days without a visa. Under Montenegrin law this means 90 days in total in any period of 180 days, counted from your first entry date.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Montenegro guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Montenegro.

You should declare items of value like expensive jewellery, photographic and computer equipment or anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

You must always carry a valid form of ID e.g. a driving licence, passport or equivalent, otherwise you may be fined. Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place.

Using cameras in secure areas

Taking photographs of police or military installations, personnel or vehicles is illegal and could lead to arrest and prosecution by the local authorities.

LGBTQ+ travellers

While there is a general tolerance towards same-sex couples in Montenegro, LGBTQ+ travellers should be aware that showing affection in public, for example, could result in unwanted attention due to the conservative nature of society in Montenegro. Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers on the UK government website.

Passport validity requirements

The embassy of Morocco in the UK advise that your passport should be valid for at least 3 months on your date of entry to Morocco. If your passport does not meet this requirement, you may face difficulties and you should check with the Moroccan authorities and your travel provider before travelling.

Make sure your passport isn’t damaged. Some travellers have been refused entry when travelling on damaged passports.

Visa requirements

British nationals don’t need a visa to enter Morocco for the purpose of tourism for up to 90 days. British nationals who stay longer than 90 days need to go to a local police station to request an extension.

When entering the country, make sure your passport is stamped. Some travellers have experienced difficulties leaving the country because their passport has no entry stamp.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro.

Laws and cultural differences

Islamic laws and customs

Morocco is a Muslim country, which follows Islamic laws and customs. You should:

• be aware of your actions to ensure they don’t offend, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas (see below)
• respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions
• avoid public displays of affection, particularly outside the main tourist areas and near religious places

Sexual relations outside marriage are punishable by law. Hotels can ask couples to show evidence of marriage while checking-in and, if you don’t have proof, they can insist on separate rooms.

Ramadan

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country, check when Ramadan is in Morocco before you go. During this time, do not:

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
• play loud music or dance
• swear in public

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

You should also:

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens
• follow local dress codes – clothing that doesn’t meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
• be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk

LGBTQ+ travellers

Homosexuality is illegal in Morocco. Be sensitive to local laws and customs and avoid public displays of affection. Complaints can lead to prosecution. See FCDO  advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Women travellers

Women, especially when travelling alone, may receive unwanted attention from men. Consider wearing loose-fitting clothing which cover the arms, legs and chest. See our FCDO advice for woman travellers.

Alcohol laws and bans

Alcohol is served in licensed hotels, bars and in tourist areas. Drinking alcohol in the street and anywhere other than a licensed restaurant or bar is illegal and can lead to arrest.

Passport validity

If you are visiting Mozambique, your passport should be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive and have at least two blank pages.

Visas

If you are traveling to Mozambique for tourism or business on a normal passport and staying for less than 30 days, you are visa exempt.

You must make a payment of 650 meticais equivalent to $10 with cash or card at the point of entry (airport or border post).

Vaccination requirements

Check the latest vaccination requirements and whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Myanmar.

Visas

British nationals must apply for a visa to enter Myanmar. If you have any queries about visas or entry requirements you should check with your nearest Myanmar embassy. If you overstay your visa you will be liable to pay a fine, and could possibly face detention.

Tourist visas

You will need a visa to enter or travel through Myanmar as a visitor. You can apply for a tourist visa online.

Vaccinations

Check the latest vaccination requirements whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Namibia and have at least 1 completely blank page for Namibian immigration to use. If you are also going to travel in South Africa, you should be aware that although South African authorities state they require 1 blank passport page for entry, some officials insist on 2 blank pages. If you plan to take this route, make sure you have a total of 3 blank pages.

Visas

Although British nationals can enter Namibia for a holiday or private visit of up to 90 days without a visa, there have been cases where visitors have only been given permission to stay for periods much shorter than 90 days, sometimes as short as only 7 or 10 days.

Vaccination requirements

Check the latest vaccination requirements and whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

Your passport must be:

• issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
• valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

You must check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.

Contact the embassy of the country you are visiting if you think that your passport does not meet both these requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• or for short-term studies or training

If you are travelling to the Netherlands and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of the Netherlands. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into the Netherlands

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food required for medical reasons. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

By law, anyone from the age of 14 and over must always be able to show a valid form of identification. British nationals should use their passport as ID. Dual-nationals can show a valid Dutch driving license, passport or Dutch/European identity card. For people aged 16 or over who fail to comply with the requirement to identify themselves, the fine is 100 euros. For persons aged 14 and 15, the fine is 50 euros.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Don’t carry or use drugs. The Netherlands has a reputation for being tolerant on the use of ‘soft drugs’, such as cannabis. However, drugs are illegal and drug use is only tolerated in designated premises in the major cities. Buying or possessing prohibited drugs and substances outside of designated areas, is illegal and can result in a prison sentence.

Buying or smoking soft drugs in public places is an offence. There are specific cafés where the use of cannabis is tolerated.

The sale of dry and fresh psychoactive mushrooms is illegal. However, the truffle (sclerotium) form of psychoactive (psilocybin) mushrooms are not covered under Dutch law (Opium Act) and are still sold in regulated ‘smart shops’. Be extremely careful as mixing alcohol, cannabis and wild mushrooms can be fatal.

Passport validity

You should ensure that your passport has at least 3 months of validity after the date you intend to leave New Caledonia.

Check your passport is valid for travel before you book your trip. You will need to renew your passport before travelling if you do not have enough time left on your passport.

Visas

New Caledonia is a dependent territory of France.

If you hold a British Citizen passport, you don’t need a visa to enter New Caledonia for stays of up to three months. Other British passport holders, and those who plan to stay longer than three months, should check the current entry requirements on the website of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and, if necessary, confirm with the nearest French Diplomatic mission.

Vaccination Requirements

Check the latest vaccination requirements and whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Passport validity requirements

To enter New Zealand, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave. If you’re travelling through another country on your way to or from New Zealand, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries will only allow entry if you have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You do not need a visa to enter New Zealand if you are a visitor staying less than 6 months. You do need a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA).

At New Zealand border control, you will also need to show that you meet the criteria for visa-free entry:

• proof of a return or onward ticket
• proof that you have enough money for your stay

Check the full criteria on New Zealand Immigration.

New Zealand has strict immigration rules, particularly on employment. Visitors cannot work in New Zealand.

New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)

If you are entering without a visa, you need a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before you travel. You will also need to pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy when you apply.

Allow up to 72 hours for it to be processed. Your NZeTA is valid for up to 2 years.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s New Zealand guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of New Zealand. It is illegal to import most food products. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Some products, including wood products, golf clubs, footwear, tents, fishing equipment and items made from animal skin, can carry harmful pests or diseases. Check what items you are permitted to bring into New Zealand. If in doubt, declare items to a Biosecurity New Zealand official or dispose of them in one of the marked bins available at the airport.

If you break any of these rules you could get a fine of up to 100,000 New Zealand dollars or a prison sentence.

Laws and cultural differences

LGBTQ+ travellers

New Zealand has an established tradition of tolerance towards same-sex relations, but there are still isolated incidents of homophobia-related crimes. LGBTQ+ travellers should be aware of local sensitivities, particularly when visiting rural areas. Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK government website.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Nicaragua, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

British nationals can visit Nicaragua for up to 90 days without a visa. You may be refused entry if you do not have an onward ticket.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Nicaragua guide.

Depending on your circumstances, these may include a yellow fever certificate.

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early. You must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave.

Contact the Norwegian Embassy in London if your passport does not meet both these requirements.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document, or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Svalbard

You’ll need your passport to travel to and enter the Svalbard archipelago.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Norway guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Norway. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Passport validity

Your passport should have at least 6 months’ validity remaining on your date of entry to Oman.

Oman doesn’t recognise dual nationality. If you hold both British and Oman nationalities and this becomes known to the Omani authorities, they may confiscate your Omani or British passport.

Visas

British nationals can visit Oman without a visa if:

• your stay is less than 14 days (no extensions);
• you have evidence of a confirmed hotel booking
• you have health insurance to cover your stay
• you have a return ticket

Vaccination requirements

Check for the latest vaccination requirements and whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

If you’re visiting Panama, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you plan to leave Panama.

Your passport must have at least one blank page.

Visa requirements

You can visit Panama for up to 3 months without a visa if you arrive by land or air. There are different visa requirements for sea arrivals.

If you arrive by sea

If you arrive on a cruise ship or are travelling through the Panama Canal, you do not need a visa unless you are staying in Panama for more than 3 months. Immigration authorities will stamp your passport if you leave the ship. They do not board cruise ships travelling through the canal to check passports.

If you arrive on a vessel that is not a cruise ship, you must have a visa to enter Panama. You must pay a fee of 100 US dollars, plus 5 US dollars registration, for each passenger or crew member. There may be other fees, for example for cruising permits.

Applying for a visa

If you need a visa, apply through the Embassy and Consulate of Panama in the UK. They can give you more information on entry requirements.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Panama guide.

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Panama. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Laws and cultural differences

Smoking and e-cigarette bans

It’s illegal to smoke in public places. You could be fined 25 to 100 US dollars if you’re caught smoking where it’s not allowed.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Same-sex civil unions are illegal, but same-sex relationships are legal in Panama. Most Panamanians are generally tolerant of LGBTQ+ travellers. However, Panamanian law does not ban discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. There have been incidents of police officers detaining LGBTQ+ couples on the grounds of public indecency. Showing affection in public can lead to unwanted attention. Casco Viejo is considered a safe place for LGBTQ+ travellers.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers on the UK government website.

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Papua New Guinea.

Visas

You need a visa to enter Papua New Guinea. Entry clearance can be arranged on-line through the Papua New Guinea Immigration & Citizenship Authority (PNGICA). Entry requirements can change so check the latest information with the PNGICA before travelling. The visa on arrival service is currently suspended.

Vaccination Requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website.

Other health risks

Papua New Guinea suffered a serious polio outbreak in 2019 in Morobe, Madang, and Eastern Highlands provinces and Port Moresby.

Tuberculosis (TB) is also prevalent. Cases of drug resistant TB have been reported in Western and Gulf provinces and in Port Moresby.

UK health authorities have classified Papua New Guinea as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. For information and advice about the risks associated with Zika virus, visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre website.

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been confirmed in Papua New Guinea. Dengue fever and malaria are also present. You should take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

To enter Paraguay, your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay.

Visa requirements

You do not need a visa to visit Paraguay. You will normally get permission to stay for 90 days on arrival.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Paraguay guide.

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Paraguay. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

You must always carry ID. Carry a copy or printout of the photo page of your passport, and a copy of your entry stamp.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is not illegal and there is a small, active LGBTQ+ community in Asunción. Same-sex marriages are not recognised in Paraguay. People are likely to disapprove of same-sex couples showing affection in public.

Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK government website.

Passport validity

If you are visiting Peru, your passport should be valid for six months from the date you arrive.

Visas

Normally, you don’t need a visa to travel if the purpose of the visit is tourism/visit.

Vaccinations

Check the latest vaccination reuirements for Peru on the TravelHealthPro website.

Customs

You can enter Peru with one laptop and two mobiles phones maximum per passenger without paying taxes. You should familiarise yourself with Peruvian immigration or customs procedures before you enter the country. For further details contact the Peruvian Consulate in London.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Visa requirements

UK passport holders do not need a visa to visit the Philippines for 30 days.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Philippines guide.

Depending on your circumstances this may include:

• a yellow fever vaccination certificate
• a polio vaccination certificate

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of the Philippines. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

You must be able to show some identification if requested by the police. If you want to keep your passport in a safe place, such as in a hotel safe, you should carry a photocopy of the photo page containing your personal details.

LGBTQ+ travellers

The Philippines is generally a tolerant and progressive place for LGBT+ travellers, although some stigma exists outside urban centres. Current legislation does not recognise same-sex marriage. Same-sex relationships are not illegal in the Philippines, but overt public displays of affection may be considered a ‘grave scandal’ under the Revised Penal Code , and you could get a fine or a 6-month jail sentence.

Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers.

Passport validity requirements

If you are travelling to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

Your passport must be issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’) and valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’).

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

If you are travelling to Portugal and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro for Portugal.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Portugal. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into the EU

You cannot take meat, milk, or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food required for medical reasons. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

By law, you must show some form of identification, if asked by the police or judicial authorities.  Sometimes a photocopy of the data page of your passport could be enough, but you may be asked to produce the original document.

Gambling

Gambling is only legal in places licensed by the government, such as official casinos. Games of chance, including bingo, are illegal if they’re held on unlicensed premises.

The police may act on reports of illegal gambling in unauthorised premises without warning. Organisers, participants and anyone on the premises may be arrested, charged with a criminal offence and fined or imprisoned. If in doubt, ask if the venue is legally licensed.

Passport validity requirements

If you are visiting Qatar, your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the date you arrive.

Visa requirements

You can get a tourist visa on arrival if you’re travelling on a full British Citizen passport.

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about what goods you can take in and out of Qatar. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Laws and cultural differences

Qatar is an Islamic country. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Make sure your actions do not cause offence, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas. There may be serious penalties for doing something that might not be illegal in the UK but is in Qatar.

Personal ID

You are required by law to carry a physical form of identification at all times.

Dress code

Dress modestly in public, including while driving:

• women should cover their shoulders and not wear short skirts
• men and women should not wear shorts or sleeveless tops in government buildings, healthcare facilities or malls – if you do, you may be asked to leave or be denied entry

Ramadan

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. During this time, do not:

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
• play loud music or dance
• swear in public

You should also:

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens
• follow local dress codes – clothing that doesn’t meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
• be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk
• be patient and show tolerance

Alcohol laws and bans

Only licensed hotels, restaurants and bars can sell alcohol. Expatriates living in Qatar can get alcohol on a permit system. Don’t carry alcohol around with you (except to take it on the day of collection from the warehouse to your home). The legal drinking age in Qatar is 21. Places serving alcohol will ask for original photo IDs (copies are not accepted) upon entry.

It is illegal to drink alcohol or be drunk in public. For example, if you drink in a non-licenced public place, you could get a prison sentence of up to 6 months or a fine up to 3,000 Qatari riyals.

LGBTQ+ & Public Intimacy

Homosexual behaviour is illegal in Qatar. See the UK government information and advice page for the LGBT+ community before you travel.

Any intimacy in public, between any couples (including between teenagers), can lead to arrest.

Passport validity

Travellers should ensure that their passport has at least 3 months of validity after the date you intend to leave Réunion.

Visas

Réunion is an Overseas Department of France (département d’outre-mer) and part of the European Union.

If you hold a British Citizen passport, you don’t need a visa to enter Réunion for stays of up to three months. Other British passport holders, and those who plan to stay longer than three months, should check the current entry requirements on the website of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and, if necessary, confirm with the nearest French Diplomatic mission.

Vaccinations

Passport validity requirements

Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months after your visa expires.

Dual nationals and passports

If you have dual British-Russian nationality and travel to Russia to renew your Russian passport, it may take up to 4 months to get your new passport. You will not be able to leave Russia on your British passport if you entered Russia on your Russian passport. You will have to stay in Russia until your new Russian passport is issued.

Visa requirements

You must get a visa before you travel. See the Russia Visa Centre for further information on how to apply for a visa, including processing time and fast track services.

If you live in the UK and are aged 12 years or over, you must go to a visa application centre in London, Manchester or Edinburgh to submit biometric data (fingerprints).

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Russia guide.

Laws and cultural differences

Passport checks

Always carry your passport with you as ID. Police carry out random checks, especially during periods of high security. You could be fined or detained for up to 48 hours if you cannot show your passport when asked. Copies are not accepted.

Restricted military areas

Access to certain areas, such as military and border zones, is restricted. You must get permission from local authorities before entering. You can find a list of restricted areas online (in Russian and the site may not be accessible from outside of Russia).

If you do not have permission, you may be arrested, fined or deported. Check with your tour operator or the Russian Embassy in the UK if you’re unsure whether a tour or excursion will take you into a restricted area.

Photographing military sites

Photography is not permitted at any military, secure or official sites (including airports). There may not be warning signs in locations where photography is banned. You could be detained or arrested if you break the law.

Cybersecurity laws

There are increasing restrictions to limit accessibility and content posted on the internet, including social media platforms. Meta (Facebook and Instagram), Twitter and LinkedIn are blocked in Russia. Access to other websites can be unreliable.

More information is available from the Federal Service for Surveillance of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Media (in Russian).

Racial discrimination

Most visitors experience no problems but racial discrimination can happen in some areas. If you’re of African, Asian or Caribbean descent, you may receive unwanted attention in public places. Take care, particularly when travelling late at night.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Homosexuality is not illegal in Russia. However, attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community and LGBTQ+ issues are less tolerant than in the UK and vary in different locations. Government officials have made derogatory comments to LGBTQ+ individuals. New legislation bans people from promoting ‘non-traditional sexual relations’ to minors. Foreign citizens could face fines, up to 15 days in jail, or deportation. Public displays of affection may receive negative attention.

In 2021, Russia was ranked 46 out of 49 European countries for LGBTQ+ rights by ILGA-Europe. There are no laws to protect LGBT+ people from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Harassment, threats, and acts of violence towards the LGBTQ+ community have increased. Penalties for foreign nationals may include arrest and detention, fines and deportation.

The North Caucasus republics are particularly intolerant of the LGBTQ+ community.

Read FCDO advice for LGBTQ+ travellers.

Religious activities

Some religious activities are restricted, including preaching and distributing religious materials.

Jehovah’s Witnesses are considered an extremist organisation in Russia. They can face harassment from authorities, including detention, particularly at places of worship.

Some other minority religious groups, like Scientologists, also face discrimination.

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of six months from the date of entry into Samoa.

Visas

Visas are not needed for stays of up to 60 days.  As a visitor you must have an onward or return ticket and a valid visa (if needed) for the next country to which you’re travelling.  Requests for an extension of your stay must be made to the local Immigration Office.  Further information on entry requirements can be found on the Samoa Immigration Department’s website.

Vaccination requirements

Check latest vaccination requirements and whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

To travel to San Marino, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

To enter San Marino (and all Schengen countries) your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area (including San Marino) for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

If you’re travelling to San Marino and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s San Marino guide.

Passport validity requirements

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

Visa requirements

You can visit São Tomé and Príncipe for tourism for a period of up to 15 days without a visa.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s São Tomé and Príncipe guide.

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Laws and cultural differences

LGBTQ+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in São Tomé and Príncipe. Attitudes towards same-sex relationships are less tolerant than in the UK and showing affection in public may attract unwanted and negative attention.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers on the UK government website.

Money

Credit cards are not widely accepted in São Tomé and Príncipe. Check if your hotel or restaurant accepts credit cards. There are only a small number of ATMs. You can withdraw cash from the main bank in the capital city, São Tomé.

Passport validity

If you are entering Saudi Arabia, your passport should be valid for a minimum period of six months from the date you arrive.

Visas

All visitors, including pilgrims, need a visa or an Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) to enter Saudi Arabia.

You can apply for a tourist visa online or on arrival at any of Saudi Arabia’s international airports. Muslim tourists may perform Umrah on a tourist visa, but a separate visa is needed for Hajj. See separate guidance on the Umrah application process in the Pilgrimage section

If you are travelling to Saudi Arabia for tourism, business, medical treatment or to study, you can apply for an Electronic Visa Waiver. An EVW permits a single entry visit of up to six months. You can apply for an EVW through the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ visas portal. You must have a confirmed flight booking and apply for your EVW from 90 days to 48 hours prior to your trip. Tourist visas are valid for 360 days from the date of issue and can be used for visits of up to 90 days. A daily fine will be levied if you overstay your visa.’

Vaccination requirements

Check the latest vaccination requirements and whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity

If you are visiting Senegal, your passport should be valid for six months from the date you arrive.

Visas

You don’t need a visa to travel to Senegal. If you intend to stay in Senegal for longer than 3 months, you’ll need to register with the local authorities in order to obtain a ‘Carte d’étranger’. You should do this after your arrival in Senegal.

Vaccination Requirements

Check the vaccination requirements and whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity

If you’re visiting Seychelles, your passport should be valid for the proposed duration of your stay. No additional period of validity beyond this is required.

Check with your travel provider to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements.

Visas

British passport holders do not need a visa for tourist visits. However, it is mandatory for visitors to apply for a digital Travel Authorisation, which determines a person’s travel eligibility to Seychelles. On arrival, you’ll be issued with a visitor’s permit provided that you meet the entry requirements of Seychelles authority. To fulfil the requirements you should:

• not be a prohibited immigrant;
• not be the holder of a valid permit which entitles you to reside in Seychelles;
• hold a valid return or onward ticket for the duration of your visit;
• show proof of confirmed accommodation;
• have sufficient funds for the duration of your stay.

The visitor’s permit may be granted for a period of visit of up to 3 months.

Vaccination requirements

Check the latest vaccination requirements and whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

To enter Singapore, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ 6 months after the date you arrive.

Visa requirements

You do not need a visa to enter Singapore. The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority decides who can enter Singapore and how long they can stay.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Singapore guide.

If you are arriving from certain countries in Africa and Latin America, you will need to show a yellow fever certificate to enter Singapore. Failure to do so may result in mandatory quarantine or being refused entry to Singapore.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Singapore. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

The following items are illegal to bring into Singapore:

• vaporisers and e-cigarettes
• tobacco products that are chewed or injected
• chewing gum to sell
• weapons and ammunition (including empty cartridge cases and air guns)
• replica guns, including lighters shaped like a pistol or revolver
• radio communications equipment

See the complete list of prohibited items on the Singapore Customs website.

Laws and cultural differences

Public offences

The public display of national flags or national emblems is illegal except where a specific exemption has been granted. It is illegal to use the Singapore flag and national symbols in ways considered disrespectful.

Police may give you an on-the-spot fine for littering. Acts of vandalism including graffiti carry harsh penalties such as fines, imprisonment and caning.

Disrespecting or intimidating a public official can be illegal. There is zero tolerance for bribery in Singapore and any attempt to bribe or otherwise prevent an official from carrying out their duties can lead to arrest.

Alcohol laws and bans

The authorities do not tolerate drunk and disorderly behaviour. It is illegal to drink alcohol in a public place, besides restaurants, bars and licensed entertainment venues, between 10:30pm and 7am.

You could be arrested for:

• being found drunk and incapable in public
• fighting and becoming a nuisance in public
• touching someone inappropriately (whether resulting from drunken behaviour or not)
• driving while drunk
• drinking outside of allowed hours and areas

Penalties for convicted offenders include fines, imprisonment, and caning.

Smoking and e-cigarette bans

You must be 21 or over to purchase, use, own, sell or supply tobacco products in Singapore.

Smoking is banned at all public parks, all beaches and along certain waterways. Orchard Road is a No Smoking Zone. Make sure you smoke in designated areas only.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Same sex relationships are not illegal in Singapore. However, same sex marriage and partnerships are not recognised in Singapore law. This means, for example, that foreign residents cannot easily get a Dependent’s Pass for a same sex spouse or partner. Children from a same-sex partnership may not be recognised as the child of both parents.

It is possible to change legal gender in Singapore, subject to medical procedures.

LGBTQ+ support groups and social venues exist in Singapore.

Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK government website.

Protests and public demonstrations

Avoid street gatherings and public demonstrations as they will be illegal if they do not have police permission. Foreigners who are not Permanent Residents are prohibited from attending outdoor demonstrations regardless of police permission. Filming an illegal gathering is forbidden. The wearing of ‘cause-related’ T-shirts and displaying ‘case-related’ banners is prohibited in public.

It is illegal for foreign nationals to talk publicly on ‘racial, communal, religious, cause-related or political topics’ without a permit.

Religions

Both public and private Jehovah’s Witness meetings are illegal in Singapore. It is also illegal to possess any Jehovah’s Witness publication, including a Jehovah’s Witness bible. There are similar measures against the Unification Church and the Shincheonji Church of Jesus.

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of six months from the date of entry into Solomon Islands.

Visas

British nationals visiting Solomon Islands do not need a visa. However, you should have a printed copy of a return or onward ticket.

Vaccination Requirements

COVID-19 Entry Requirements

All incoming travellers must be fully (double) vaccinated.

If you are 12 years old or above and are double vaccinated, you do not need to undertake any COVID-19 test prior to entry into Solomon Islands. You will need to show proof of vaccination.

For any child under 12 years, it is recommended but not mandatory that they are double vaccinated before entering the Solomon Islands. Children under 12 who are not double vaccinated must undertake one COVID-19 PCR within a period of 72 hours before arrival into the country. You will need to show a negative test result at the time of check-in.

Measles vaccination evidence requirements

All travellers, with effect from 28 December 2019, will be required to complete a Travellers Health Declaration Card on arrival.

Travellers will also need to show proof of vaccination against measles if you have travelled from or via Australia, New Zealand, American Samoa, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Kiribati, Papua New Guinea, and the Philippines.

The requirement is not applicable to persons transiting through Australia, New Zealand, American Samoa, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, the Philippines, Kiribati and Papua New Guinea where the original port of boarding, departure or embarkation is outside of the affected countries. A transit in this instance, means staying within the airport terminal complex.

You must be vaccinated at least 15 days prior to arrival in Solomon Islands and you must be able to provide documentary evidence of your vaccination. Failure to do so may result in you being unable to board your inbound flight or deportation.

Other vaccination requirements

Check for any other vaccination requirements and whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

To avoid problems at immigration, your passport should:

• be valid for at least 30 days beyond your intended date of exit from South Africa
• have 2 blank pages for your visa

Some immigration officials still request that a passport should have at least 6 months validity on the date of entry to South Africa. To avoid problems at the airport on arrival, you can ensure your passport is valid for six months.

Dual nationals

If you hold South African citizenship, you must use your South African passport to enter and exit the country. It is illegal for a South African citizen aged 18 or over to enter or leave the country on a foreign passport. For more information about South African passports, see the South Africa Department of Home Affairs.

Visa requirements

You do not need a visa to visit South Africa for tourism or business for up to 90 days.

Check the expiry date of your visa or entry stamp and make sure you do not overstay.

Travelling with children

There are special requirements for travelling to South Africa with children under 18, and for unaccompanied children entering South Africa. The South African Department of Home Affairs has more information.

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro.

Customs rules

Check UK customs requirements before buying products to take back to the UK.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

Always carry a copy of your passport photo page and the page with your visitors permit or residence permit for South Africa. South African officials may request identification and proof of residence at any time. Keep your passport itself in a hotel safe or another secure location and do not carry it with you, unless needed for official identification.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Homosexuality is legal, and it is illegal to discriminate based on sexual orientation. See the UK government for advice for LGBTQ+ travellers.

Passport validity requirements

If you are visiting as a tourist for up to 90 days, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ after the date you are leaving South Korea.

Visa requirements

You do not need a visa to visit South Korea as a tourist for up to 90 days. You must have an onward or return ticket. It’s illegal to work on a tourist visa, whether as a teacher or in any other capacity.

Vaccination requirements

At  least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s South Korea guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of South Korea. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Passport validity requirements

If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

Your passport must be:

• issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
• valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

Check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel as a tourist, to visit family or friends, to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events, or for short-term studies or training.

If travelling to Spain and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

Unaccompanied minors

Spanish law considers anyone under 18 to be a minor. If an unaccompanied minor comes to the attention of the Spanish authorities (particularly in connection with criminal incidents or when in hospital) they will be considered vulnerable and may be taken to a minors centre until a parent or guardian is found.

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need on TravelHealthPro.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about what goods can be taken into and out of Spain. You can find details on the National Tax Agency leaflet (in Spanish and English). Declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into Spain

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food required for medical reasons. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

You must provide photo ID if requested by a police officer. This includes the Guardia Civil and national, regional and local police forces. The police have the right to hold you at a police station until they have confirmed your identity.

Ignoring direct requests of a police officer can be considered as ‘disobedience’, which is a criminal offence.

Hotels, tourist accommodation and car rental companies have a legal duty to register passport details of tourists when they check-in or collect a vehicle.

When checking-in to your accommodation, wait until hotel staff have registered your passport details, or taken a photocopy of your passport. Do not leave your passport at reception to collect later.

You may need to show ID when buying goods with credit or debit cards. Your driving licence or a photocopy of your passport may be accepted, but they may need you to show your original passport.

Alcohol laws and bans

You cannot drink alcohol in the street in some areas of Spain. You can be given an on-the-spot fine. There are strict controls on drinking and sexual activity in public places, including on beaches.

Dress

In some parts of Spain it’s against the law to be in the street wearing only a bikini or swimming shorts. Being bare-chested is also illegal in some areas in Spain. You may be fined if you’re caught wearing swimwear on the seafront promenade or adjacent streets.

For security reasons, some public authorities in Spain do not allow the burka or niqab to be worn in their buildings. If you visit town council buildings wearing a burka or niqab, you may be asked to remove it while inside.

LGBTQ+

Spain is a generally tolerant and progressive place for LGBTQ+ travellers. There are active LGBTQ+ communities and social venues, particularly in big cities. Same-sex marriage has been legal in Spain since 2005. Since 2007, transgender people are able to register under their preferred sex in public documents such as birth certificates, identity cards and passports without undergoing prior gender reassignment surgery. Spain does not recognise a third gender.

Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK government website.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Sri Lanka, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you arrive.

Visa requirements

Tourist visas are normally valid for 30 days. If you overstay your visa you could be fined or detained by the police.

You must follow the guidelines for tourists issued by Sri Lanka’s Immigration and Emigration department.

Applying for a visa

You can get and pay for a Sri Lanka ‘Electronic Travel Authorisation’ (ETA) online, a few days before you arrive. You should get your approval notice within 24 hours, and you can use this to enter Sri Lanka.

You can also get a 30-day tourist visa on arrival if you land at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. It costs 60 US dollars, which is 10 US dollars more than the ETA.

You can complete an online arrival form 3 days before arriving in Sri Lanka. The service is free and may save time when you arrive.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Sri Lanka. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

You must carry an official form of identification at all times. Your passport is an acceptable form of identification. If you do not have it with you and are stopped or detained by the authorities, ask them to contact the British High Commission.

Alcohol laws and bans

You could be fined if you ignore instructions not to drink in certain public areas.

Alcohol is not usually available on religious holidays. Drinking in public on these days could be culturally insensitive. Check locally for dates of religious holidays of when this would apply.

Smoking and e-cigarette bans

You could be fined if you ignore signs not to smoke in certain public areas.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Same-sex relations are illegal, but the FCDO is not aware of any prosecutions.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers on the UK government website.

Laws on clothing

Nude or topless sunbathing is not allowed.

Sri Lankan attitudes to informal styles of dress are generally relaxed, but women travelling alone may feel uncomfortable if not dressed modestly. If you enter a Buddhist temple:

• cover your legs and shoulders
• take off shoes and hats

Religion

Disrespecting Buddhist images and artefacts, or making offensive remarks about religion, is a serious offence and can lead to arrest. If you have visible tattoos of Buddha, you can been refused entry to Sri Lanka or face deportation. Do not pose for photographs standing in front of a statue of Buddha.

Wildlife

Some Sri Lankan animals can be dangerous. If in doubt, follow advice from authorised guides or local authorities. Wild elephants and crocodiles will attack humans on occasion. Though not common in populated areas, venomous insects and snakes are found in many parts of the country. Feral dogs are common and sometimes carry rabies.

Passport validity

If you are visiting St Kitts and Nevis, your passport should be valid for a minimum period of six months from the date you arrive.

Visas

British passport holders don’t need a visa to visit St Kitts and Nevis.

On entry, you will be granted a specified period to stay. If you wish to stay longer you must apply and pay for an extension of stay through the St Kitts and Nevis Immigration Department.

It is an offence to overstay the entry period or to work without a work permit.

Vaccination requirements

Check the vaccination requirements and whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

If you’re visiting St Lucia, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ after the day you plan to leave.

Visa requirements

You can visit St Lucia without a visa.

On entry, you’ll be allowed to stay for a maximum period of 6 weeks.

Online immigration form

Fill in an online immigration form no more than 3 days before you arrive. If you do not complete it before you arrive, you’ll be asked to fill in the electronic form on arrival or fill in a paper form, if available.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s St Lucia guide.

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever certificate.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of St Lucia. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Laws and cultural differences

Laws on clothing

It’s illegal for anyone, including children, to dress in camouflage clothing.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community are mostly conservative throughout the Caribbean. Certain same-sex sexual acts are illegal in St Lucia. Showing affection in public may attract unwanted and negative attention. It is uncommon for opposite or same-sex couples to show affection in public in St Lucia.

Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK government website.

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into St Maarten.

Visas

British passport holders do not need a visa for stays of up to 3 months.

Vaccination requirements

Check the latest vaccination requirements and whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must have at least 3 months’ validity remaining after the date you intend to leave St Martin and St Barthélemy.

Visa requirements

If you hold a British citizen passport, you do not need a visa to enter St Martin or St Barthélemy for stays of up to 3 months. If you hold another type of British passport or want to stay longer than 3 months, check with the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs or contact the Consulate General of France in the UK.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s French overseas territories in the Carribean guide.

Depending on your circumstances, these may include:

• yellow fever certificate

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of St Martin or St Barthélemy. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Laws and cultural differences

St Martin and St Barthélemy are French overseas territories and French law applies.

Personal ID

You must be able to prove your identity either by providing documents when asked or within 4 hours at a police station. Identity documents can be:

• a passport
• a photo driving licence
• other documentation provided by a government body

Passport validity requirements

It is recommended that your passport have at least 6 months’ validity remaining after the date you intend to leave.

Visas

St Pierre & Miquelon is a Territorial Collective (Collectivité Territoriale d’Outre-mer) of France.

If you hold a British Citizen passport, you don’t need a visa to enter St Pierre et Miquelon for stays of up to three months. Other British passport holders, and those who plan to stay longer than three months, should check the current entry requirements on the website of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and, if necessary, confirm with the nearest French Diplomatic mission.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s website.

Passport validity requirements

To enter St Vincent and the Grenadines, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Visa requirements

You do not need a visa to visit St Vincent and the Grenadines. On entry, you will be granted a period of 6 months.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s St Vincent and the Grenadines guide.

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of St Vincent and the Grenadines. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Laws and cultural differences

Laws on clothing

It’s illegal for anyone, including children, to dress in camouflage clothing.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community are mostly conservative throughout the Caribbean. LGBTQ+ travellers should be aware that showing affection in public may attract unwanted and negative attention. Some homosexual acts are illegal.

Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK Goverment website.

Passport validity requirements

To travel to Sweden, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

To enter Sweden (and all Schengen countries) your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area (which includes Sweden) for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports event
• for short-term studies or training

If you’re travelling to Sweden and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need in TravelHealthPro’s Sweden guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Sweden. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into the EU

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

Passport validity requirements

If you’re planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

Your passport must be:

• issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
• valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

You must check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

UK nationals do not need a visa to enter Switzerland. At passport control, UK nationals should use the ‘ALL PASSPORTS’ lane, whatever their residence status.

If you’re travelling to Switzerland and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that you can take into and out of Switzerland. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. There is information about Swiss customs regulations on the cantons website.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Switzerland guide.

Laws and cultural differences

Public offences

Covering your face in public places in the Swiss cantons of Ticino and St Gallen is illegal, including for tourists. This includes balaclavas, full veils or any other garment or mask that is used to hide the face. You could be fined 100 to 10,000 Swiss francs if you don’t comply.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Taiwan, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you arrive.

Visa requirements

You can spend up to 90 days in Taiwan without a visa. You can extend this by a further 90 days once you have arrived in Taiwan. You can get more information on entering Taiwan without a visa (‘visa-exempt entry’) from the Taiwan Bureau of Consular Affairs. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events

If you plan to stay in Taiwan for longer than 180 days, you must have a visa before you arrive. If you stay beyond the time given on your visa, you will get a fine and risk being deported from Taiwan.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Taiwan guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Taiwan. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Laws and cultural differences

LGBTQ+ travellers

Taiwan has some of Asia’s most progressive policies on LGBTQ+ rights and discrimination on the grounds of gender and gender identity is illegal. Taiwan’s Pride parade, held annually in October, is the largest regular LGBTQ+ event in Asia, attracting high numbers of participants from the region and internationally.

Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK Goverment website.

Passport validity

If you are visiting Tanzania, your passport should be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive.

Visas

All British passport holders need a tourist or business visa to enter Tanzania. Tanzania has introduced an ‘e-visas’ system through which applications can be submitted and approved online in advance of travel. It is no longer possible to get a visa from the Tanzanian High Commission in London.

It is also possible to get a tourist or business visa for a single entry on arrival at main ports of entry to Tanzania, subject to the fulfilment of all immigration requirements. You may be asked to provide proof of your return journey. You will not be able to get a multiple entry visa on arrival. For further information about visas visit the Tanzanian immigration website.

Vaccination requirements

Check the latest vaccination requirements and whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from when you enter Thailand.

You could be refused entry to Thailand if your passport is damaged or has pages missing.

Visa requirements

British passport holders arriving by air or land can enter Thailand for 30 days without a visa (visa exemption).

If you intend to stay longer (for work, study or other reasons) you need a visa before you travel.

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need on TravelHealthPro.

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Thailand. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Laws and cultural differences

You should be aware of differences between UK and Thai law and local customs.

Criticising the Thai monarchy

Criticising the Thai monarchy (lèse-majesté) is illegal. The law can be interpreted broadly and carries a long jail sentence. British and Thai journalists, human rights defenders, and members of the public have faced charges for raising concerns, making political comments, sharing articles online that could been seen as negative towards Thailand, or making accusations about individuals.

Posting images on social media

Posting images on social media of people drinking alcohol or wearing clothing considered inappropriate can be illegal. Both the person who uploaded the images and the people in them could be fined or imprisoned.

Smoking and e-cigarette bans

While cigarettes are common, you could be fined up to 5,000 Thai baht for smoking them in public. E-cigarettes are illegal. You could be fined or imprisoned for using them.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Thailand is generally a safe place for LGBTQ+ travellers. Thailand has no legislation on same-sex marriage.  Same-sex marriages are not legally recognised. Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK government website.

Passport validity

If you are visiting Togo, your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay.

Visas

British passport holders need a visa to enter Togo. Visas are no longer issued on arrival. You must apply for an e-visa before your arrival. A single entry tourist visa valid for 15 days costs 25,000 West African francs (FCFA), approximately £33. This can be paid by debit or credit card (Visa, Mastercard). The Togolese authorities recommend applying for a visa at least 6 days before arrival, to allow for processing time. Applications submitted less than 6 days prior to arrival in Togo will incur extra processing fees.

Vaccination requirements

Check the latest vaccination requirements and whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity

If you are visiting Tonga, your passport should be valid for a minimum of 6 months from the date you arrive.

Visas

British passport holders visiting Tonga as a tourist or on business are normally given permission to enter the country for up to 30 days. You should be able to provide an onward air or sea ticket, proof of adequate funds and relevant health certificates. If you wish to extend your stay you must obtain permission from the Principal Immigration Officer.

Vaccination Requirements

COVID-19

Foreign travellers aged 12 years and above are normally required to be fully vaccinated with the prescribed two COVID-19 vaccine doses (or one dose of Johnson & Johnson) before seeking entry to Tonga. Proof of vaccination status is required on check-in for flights and ships. All travellers are also encouraged to have their booster dose(s) complete before travelling to Tonga.

Tonga will accept the UK’s printed version of proof of COVID-19 vaccination  and proof of COVID-19 vaccination issued in the Crown Dependencies. Your NHS appointment card from vaccination centres is not designed to be used as proof of vaccination and should not be used to demonstrate your vaccine status.

A COVID-19 vaccine certificate is required for check-in. Ideally a hard copy of the vaccine certificate should be presented at check-in unless you are permitted an exemption (see the ‘If you are not fully vaccinated’ section below) However, electronic documents, including emails, on mobile phones or other electronic devices are acceptable.

All documents presented must be in English. The use of any other language will result in you being denied boarding.

Other Vaccinations

Check the latest vaccination requirements and whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity

If you are visiting Trinidad and Tobago, your passport should be valid for a minimum of six months from the date you arrive.

Visas

You do not need a visa to visit Trinidad and Tobago as a visitor. Visitors are generally given 90 days to remain in the country, but extensions can be obtained from the Passport and Immigration Department, in Port of Spain (Trinidad) and Scarborough (Tobago).

Vaccination requirements

Check the latest vaccination requirements and whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity

If you are visiting Tunisia, your passport should be valid for the full duration of your stay. You don’t need any additional period of validity beyond this.

Visas

For stays longer than 90 days, you will need a visa. You should contact the Tunisian Embassy in London for information on how to apply.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

If you are visiting Turkey, your passport must:

• be valid for at least 150 days from the date you arrive
• have a full blank page for entry and exit stamps

If you are a resident in Turkey, your passport must be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive.

Visa requirements

If you’re visiting Turkey for tourism or business for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, you do not need a visa.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need on TravelHealthPro.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

It is illegal not to carry some form of photographic ID in Turkey. Always carry your passport or residence permit. In some busy areas, especially Istanbul, the authorities may stop people for ID checks. There are also several police checkpoints on main roads across Turkey. Cooperate with officials conducting checks.

Dress visiting mosques

Dress modestly if you’re visiting a mosque or a religious shrine to avoid causing offence.

Personal injury claims

There are reports of tourists being encouraged to submit a claim for personal injury if they have experienced gastric illness in Turkey. Find out what you can do if you have suffered a personal injury on the Citizens Advice website. Only make a claim if you have genuinely suffered from injury or illness. If you make a false or fraudulent claim, you may face legal proceedings in the UK or Turkey.

Smoking bans

Smoking is illegal on public transport and in all indoor workplaces and public places. Smoking is restricted in some outdoor areas where cultural, artistic, sports or entertainment activities are held.

Stray dogs

Most towns and cities have stray dogs. Packs congregate in parks and wastelands and can be aggressive. Take care and do not approach stray dogs. If you’re bitten, get medical advice immediately. Rabies and other animal borne diseases are present in Turkey.

Using cameras

Do not take photographs near military or official installations. Ask for permission before photographing people.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Homosexuality is legal in Turkey. However, many parts of Turkey are socially conservative and showing affection in public could result in unwelcome attention. Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK government website.

Passport validity

You must hold a valid passport to enter Turks and Caicos. Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Turks and Caicos.

Visas

Visas are not required if you have a valid UK Passport. The Turks and Caicos Islands Immigration department will normally give you permission to stay for up to 90 days.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need on TravelHealthPro.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity

If you are visiting the USA your passport should be valid for the proposed duration of your stay. You don’t need any additional period of validity on your passport beyond this.

Global Entry programme

The US Customs and Border Protection programme Global Entry allows pre-approved travellers through border control faster at some US airports. If you’re a British citizen, you can register to get a UK background check on GOV.UK. If you pass the background checks, you’ll be invited to apply for Global Entry.

Visa requirements

You will need either an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) visa waiver or a visa to enter or transit the USA as a visitor.

You are not normally eligible for an ESTA visa waiver if you have been in the following countries on or after March 2011:

• Iran
• Iraq
• Libya
• North Korea
• Somalia
• Sudan
• Syria
• Yemen

You cannot apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you have travelled to or been in Cuba after 1 January 2021. You must instead apply for a US visa.

You cannot apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you:

• have been arrested (even if the arrest did not result in a criminal conviction)
• have a criminal record
• have been refused admission into, or have been deported from the USA
• have previously overstayed under an ESTA visa waiver

Check the US State Department website for more information on US visas.

Applying for a visa

Visit the US Embassy for details on how to apply for a visa.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on health risks and what vaccinations you need for the USA (or the US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam and Northern Mariana Islands) on TravelHealthPro (from the UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre)
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of the USA. More information about altitude sickness is available from TravelHealthPro (from the UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre).

Mosquito bites

Take steps to avoid bites from mosquitoes and ticks – read guidance on TravelHealthPro. There are occasional outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases.

Zika virus is a risk in:

• Florida
• Texas (Cameron County and Hidalgo County only)
• Puerto Rico
• US Virgin Islands
• American Samoa

For more information and advice, visit TravelHealthPro for Florida and Texas, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands and American Samoa.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

You cannot take some prescription drugs into the USA. The US Food and Drug Administration provides information and advice on bringing medicines into the USA.

UK prescriptions are not valid in the USA. To get pharmacy drugs, you need a prescription from a US provider (available from an urgent care facility, emergency room or a doctor).

TravelHealthPro explains best practice when travelling with medicines.

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad.

Laws and cultural differences

US states may have different laws. Whilst you are in a state, you are subject to both that state’s laws as well as national (federal) law.

Personal ID

Always carry a passport showing that you have permission to enter or remain in the USA.

Alcohol laws

The national legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 21 years. Some states have different laws. If you are under-21, check the relevant state laws before drinking or buying alcohol.

LGBTQ+ travellers

The USA is a very diverse society and attitudes towards lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) people differ hugely across the country. Read the UK government information and advice page for the LGBTQ+ community before you travel.

Passport validity requirements

If you’re travelling without a visa, your passport should be valid for the proposed duration of your stay. No additional period of validity beyond this is required. If you’re applying for a visa, your passport may need to have an additional period of validity. Check with the Ukrainian Embassy in the UK for further details.

Visa requirements

British Citizen passport holders can enter Ukraine without a visa for visits of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Ukraine has confirmed that this policy will continue to apply to British citizens until 30 January 2024.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Ukraine guide.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

Carry your passport at all times to use as identification and to demonstrate your legal status in Ukraine if asked by the police. Police should identify themselves and show identification. If you’re detained because you have not been able to present your passport, ask for an official report.

Alcohol and smoking

It is illegal to smoke or drink alcohol in public places, including on public transport, at bus stops, underground crossings, cultural, sports and governmental establishments, playgrounds and parks.

Using cameras in secure areas

Do not take photographs near government or military establishments.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Although same-sex relationships are not illegal, public attitudes are less tolerant than in the UK and showing affection in public may receive negative attention. There’s no provision under Ukrainian legislation guaranteeing freedom from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK government website.

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into the UAE.

Visas

Holders of full British passports will be granted a free of charge visitor/tourist visa upon arrival in the UAE. No application in advance of travel is needed. Your passport will be stamped with the visa as you pass through Immigration.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s UAE guide.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for at least the proposed duration of your stay. No additional period of validity beyond this is required.

Visas

British passport holders visiting for up to 90 days don’t need a visa.

Customs controls

Strict customs controls prohibit visitors from importing animal and dairy products, fruit and vegetables. All baggage is x-rayed on arrival and may be searched.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Uruguay guide.

Restrictions in response to coronavirus

Visitors aged 18 and over:

• All visitors to Uruguay must have medical cover in Uruguay or travel insurance. It is advisable that your insurance covers any expenses due to coronavirus related illness.

If you present coronavirus symptoms you have been asked to request home health care and not visit health centres and hospitals. Further information is also available from the Uruguayan Ministry of Health (in Spanish).

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

If you’re visiting Vietnam, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you arrive, at least 2 blank pages and no damage – British nationals have been denied entry and exit due to passport damage.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

If you plan to stay in Vietnam for 45 days or fewer, you do not need a visa for:

• tourism
• transit
• business travel – but not paid or voluntary work

You must have a visa for longer stays or if you’re entering Vietnam for other reasons.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Vietnam guide.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

It is a legal requirement to always carry photographic ID. You should carry a photocopy of the photo page of your passport with your personal details and visa and leave the original in a safe place.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Vietnam is a generally tolerant and progressive place for LGBTQ+ travellers. There are no criminal penalties for same-sex relationships and changing gender. Same-sex marriage is not recognised by law.

Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK government website.

Dress code

Respect local customs and dress in appropriate clothing when entering religious or cultural sites. This usually means covering your shoulders and knees. Signs informing you of the dress code outside religious or cultural sites are common.

Rice wine

Some rice wines sold without recognised brand names can have very high and sometimes fatal levels of methanol.

Passport validity

If you are visiting Zambia, your passport should be valid for a minimum of 6 months from the date you arrive and have at least 2 blank pages.

Visas

A visa is required to enter Zambia. British nationals visiting Zambia for less than 90 days do not need a visa in advance, and can obtain a visa on arrival. Effective from 1 November 2022, the Government of Zambia removed all visa fees for British passport holders visiting Zambia. British nationals travelling for tourism are permitted to stay in Zambia for a for a total of 90 days in any period of twelve months from the day of first entry into Zambia.

Vaccinations

Check the latest vaccination requirements and whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Local laws and customs

Passport validity requirements

To enter Zimbabwe, your passport must:

• be valid for at least 6 months from the date of your arrival
• have 3 blank pages, in case you need to enter Zimbabwe and exit through one of the neighbouring countries or if you need to leave at short notice

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You must have a visa to visit Zimbabwe.

Applying for a visa

Most visitors apply for a visa on arrival in Zimbabwe. Take enough US dollars with you in small notes to pay for your visa – see information on visa fees from the Zimbabwean Embassy.

You can also apply for an e-visa before you travel.

It is no longer possible to get a visa from the Zimbabwean Embassy in London.

Zimbabwe usually grants 30-day visas. Check the number of days on your visa covers your intended period of stay.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Zimbabwe guide.

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever certificate.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

Carry a photocopy of your passport or your Zimbabwean resident ID at all times. Leave your original passport somewhere safe. If you lose your UK passport, get a police report. You may need to show this to immigration to explain why you have no proof of entry when you depart.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Zimbabwean laws on the possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict and carry heavy fines or prison sentences.

The British Embassy is not able to provide the full range of consular services to people with dual British and Zimbabwean nationality.

Camouflage clothing

It is illegal for civilians to wear any form of clothing made from camouflage material.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Sex between men and same-sex marriage are illegal in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwean society remains conservative towards same-sex relations, especially between men. However, there is a small but active underground LGBTQ+ scene in Harare and prosecutions are rare. Be aware that showing affection in public could result in unwanted attention.

Read more advice for LGBTQ+ travellers on the UK government website.