Antigua and Barbuda

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 911 or 999 for police. 
• Dial 246-227-4000 for the U.S. embassy.

Crime

Criminals generally do not target U.S. citizens in the Eastern Caribbean islands. However, crimes of opportunity such as petty larceny, burglary, and automobile break-ins may occur. Other violent crime, such as murder, sexual assault, robbery, shootings, and drug related crimes sometimes happen. 

Safety tips

• Do not leave valuables unattended in public areas, on beaches, unsecured in hotel rooms, or in rental homes.
• Avoid walking alone on beaches and in isolated or poorly lit locations, especially at night.
• Go out in groups or with a companion. Limit nighttime activities to established safe and reputable venues.
• Use only clearly marked taxis and avoid rides with strangers.
• Stick to well-lit and well-traveled routes.
• Avoid showing flashy jewelry or expensive electronics. Do not carry large amounts of cash.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times. If you see something suspicious or unusual, contact local police to report immediately.
• Use extra caution when shopping in crowded areas, especially during the holiday season.
• Use extra caution when attending crowded events, celebrations, or music festivals.
• Do not leave drinks unattended in public venues. You could be vulnerable to “date rape” drugs.
• Do not be predictable. Vary your daily routes and schedules.
• Do not engage in illegal activity.
• For boaters: Be wary of unfamiliar people or crafts approaching your boat, whether at anchor or at sea.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Financial scams and internet romance scams may occur in Antigua and Barbuda. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help. 

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating 
• Money transfers 
• Grandparent and relative targeting 
• Free trip or luggage 
• Lotteries 
• Inheritance notices 
• Work permits and job offers

If using dating apps or websites in Antigua and Barbuda: 

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.  
• Meet in a popular public place. 
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule. 

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 911 or 999.

Review our information for Victims of Crime.  

The U.S. embassy or consulate can: 

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.  
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police. 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent. 
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.  
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. 
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States. 
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need. 
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence 

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy at 246-227-4000 for assistance. 
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy at 246-227-4000 for assistance. 

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States. 
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.  
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks. 
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare. 
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs. 
• Staff may not be trained or certified. 
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care. 
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies. 
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 

Review our information on Travel Insurance. 

Lodging safety

Consider safety when picking places to stay.

• Research hotels or lodgings carefully. Book accommodations before traveling and have backup options ready in case you have to switch locations.
• Consider accommodations with safety measures like 24-hour lobby service, gates, or security guards.
• Ensure all doors and windows lock properly.
• Always meet new visitors or strangers in the public lobby, not in your room.

Review our information on Lodging Safety.

Adventure travel 

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Watersports safety

Consider your physical capabilities and skills before engaging in risky recreational water activities. 

• Do not explore beaches alone or go far out to sea by yourself. 
• Avoid entering the water above your waist if you have been drinking. 
• Always be mindful of jet ski and boat traffic in the area

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.  

• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs or firearms are severe. This includes marijuana. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.

Arrest notification 

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.  

Firearms

• Do not enter Antigua and Barbuda with firearms or ammunition without prior express consent from the Antigua and Barbuda government. 
• Please contact the U.S. Embassy in Barbados with questions regarding travel with firearms.

Detention conditions

• Detainees in Antigua and Barbuda may experience delays in obtaining their prescribed or over the counter medications. Detainees may not receive emergency and routine medical care. 

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations. 

• They may be illegal according to local laws.  
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.  
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.  

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:  

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

Consensual same-sex sexual activity between adult men is illegal. It carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. 

• Local law does not give spousal rights or privileges to lesbian and gay couples married outside of Antigua and Barbuda.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• The law in Antigua and Barbuda prohibits discrimination against people with physical disabilities. The law is not commonly enforced.
• Access to buildings, pedestrian paths, and transportation is extremely difficult for people with mobility issues. 
• Sidewalks, if any, are uneven. They sometimes have ramps or curb cuts at intersections. 
• Pedestrian crossings are uncommon and can be poorly marked. Buses and taxis do not have special accommodations.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.  

Women travelers  

• Review our information for Women Travelers. 
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Antigua and Barbuda Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.  
• CDC Medical Tourism information 
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 911 or 999 for emergency medical services.  

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are widely available. However, training and response time of emergency responders may vary. 

• Ambulances are not equipped with advanced medical equipment.  
• Ambulances are not staffed with trained paramedics. They often have little or no medical equipment.  
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not. 

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Antigua and Barbuda. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Most care providers abroad only accept cash payments.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Public hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient.  
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims. 

Common diseases

The following diseases are present in the country:

• Chikungunya
• Dengue
• Zika

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice 

Healthcare facilities 

Medical facilities in Antigua and Barbuda do not meet U.S. standards. The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.  
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission.   
• Be aware that some hotels and resorts have exclusive agreements with medical providers. This may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention. 
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse. Another option is to have family stay the night with the patient, especially a child.

Prescription medications 

• If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Government of Antigua and Barbuda to ensure the medication is legal in Antigua and Barbuda. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. 
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls. 
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally. 

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States. 

For more information: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Antigua and Barbuda to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad. 
• Surrogacy is largely unregulated in Antigua and Barbuda with no clear legal protections for foreign intended parents.  Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by Antiguan and Barbudan courts.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Antigua and Barbuda via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney and be prepared for long and unexpected delays with local authorities while documenting your child’s birth or citizenship status. 
• People who try to avoid local law risk legal consequences.  

Water quality and food safety 

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking. 
• In some locations, tap water is not available every day.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. 
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water. 
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling. 
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad. 

• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.

For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Be extremely careful when driving, riding in a vehicle, or crossing roads on foot. 

• Major roads are in average to poor condition. You may find loose animals and slow-moving heavy equipment on roads. 
• Drivers often stop in the middle of the roadway without warning.
• Always maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. Watch for signs of sudden braking. 
• Cars may lack working safety and signaling devices.

Traffic laws  

• Antigua and Barbuda requires visitors to purchase a temporary driving permit, which costs approximately $20USD and is valid for three months. Rental car agencies can assist with this.
• Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. 
• There is little police enforcement of traffic regulations.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Check that your taxi driver is licensed and belongs to the official taxi association. 
• Some taxi drivers without licenses have charged more money than they first agreed to. Sometimes they charge 2 to 3 times more than the original price. 

Public and commercial transportation 

• Buses and vans are crowded and may travel at fast speeds. 
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight 

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Antigua and Barbuda does not meet international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program. 

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Antigua and Barbuda should check the following:  

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts 
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons 

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Hurricanes and tropical storms 

• The hurricane season runs from June through November, with the highest risk in August, September, and October. These powerful storms can bring destructive winds, heavy rain, and flooding.
• Tropical storms occur during the same season as hurricanes but are less intense. They still bring strong winds, heavy rain, and can cause flooding and landslides.

Earthquakes

• Antigua and Barbuda sits in an earthquake zone. While major earthquakes are rare, small tremors can happen at any time of year.

Safety tips

• National Office of Disaster Services (NODS): Check to learn about emergency response efforts.
• Monitor local radio and TV stations for updates and warnings.
• Dial 911 for emergencies. 
• Monitor local weather forecasts regularly.
• Follow guidance from local authorities.
• Keep emergency supplies ready during hurricane season.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and 

Embassies and consulates