Anguilla

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

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

• Dial 911 for police.
• Dial 246-227-4000 for the U.S. embassy in Bridgetown, Barbados.

Crime

U.S. citizens are generally not specifically targeted for crime in the Eastern Caribbean islands. However, crimes do happen, including theft, burglary, car break-ins, murder, sexual assault, robbery, shootings, and drug-related crimes. Use the same safety measures you would use in any large U.S. city.

Safety tips

• Do not leave valuables unattended in public areas, on beaches, in hotel rooms, or in rental homes.
• Avoid walking alone at night, on beaches, or in dark or remote areas.
• Go out in groups or with a friend and only go to safe and well-known places at night.
• Use only clearly marked taxis and don't accept rides from strangers.
• Stick to well-lit and busy routes.
• Don't show off expensive jewelry, electronics, or large amounts of cash.
• Always pay attention to your surroundings. If you see something suspicious, call local police immediately.
• Use extra caution when shopping in crowded areas, especially during holidays.
• Use extra caution at crowded events, celebrations, or music festivals.
• Don't leave drinks unattended in bars or restaurants as someone could put drugs in them.
• Change your daily routes and schedules so you're not predictable.
• Don't engage in illegal activity.
• For boaters: Watch out for unfamiliar people or boats approaching you, whether you're anchored 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 are not common in Anguilla but can happen. 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 Anguilla: 

• 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 crimes. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 911.

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 domestic violence or sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy in Bridgetown, Barbados, at 246-227-4000 and local law enforcement at 911 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.
• Drones are legal in Anguilla, but restrictions apply. Contact local authorities for details.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced.
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities.
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally.
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help.
• 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

Think carefully about the risks of water activities and whether you have the skills and physical ability to do them safely.

• Never go out alone, especially at remote beaches or far from shore.
• Don't go into water deeper than your waist if you've been drinking. Always watch out for jet skis and boats in the area.
• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

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.
  
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs or firearms are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• 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.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Anguilla seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Firearms

• Do not enter Anguilla with firearms or ammunition without prior express consent from the British government. Contact the UK Embassy before you travel with questions regarding travel with firearms.

Arrest notification

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

Detention conditions

• Detainees in Anguilla may not be able to receive their prescribed or over the counter medications.
• Detainees may also encounter difficulties receiving 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

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Anguilla
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

Disabled travelers in Anguilla may encounter the following:

• Access to buildings, sidewalks, and transportation is extremely difficult for people with disabilities or mobility issues.
• Sidewalks (if they exist) are very uneven and sometimes have ramps at intersections.
• Pedestrian crossings are not common and may 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) Anguilla 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 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

• Ambulances are available. However, training and response time of emergency responders may vary considerably.
• 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.
• Medical care is not free in Anguilla. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• 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.

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 Anguilla do not meet U.S. standards.

• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies. 
• Hospitals and doctors generally require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• Consider hiring a private nurse. Another option is to have family stay the night with the patient, especially a child.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited.
• For more severe medical issues, costly evacuation to the United State may be necessary for life saving care.

Prescription medications

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

• If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of Anguilla to ensure the medication is legal in Anguilla.
• 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 Anguilla to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

• ART is unavailable in Anguilla due to technology limitations. Thus, surrogacy is largely unregulated in Anguilla with no clear legal protection for foreign intended parents.  Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by British courts.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Anguilla 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.
• 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.
• Visit the CDC for more information on using water safely.

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

• Major roads are in average to poor condition.
• Drivers often stop in the middle of the road without warning.
• Always keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you and watch for signs of sudden braking.
• Cars may not have working safety equipment or turn signals.

Traffic laws 

You must purchase a temporary driving permit to drive locally for up to 6 months. The temporary permits cost $20.00 USD and are available from the Inland Revenue Department or from most car rental agencies

• Driving is on the left side of the road.
• If driving a rental vehicle, always carry your rental agreement and insurance documentation.

In case of an accident

If you are involved in an accident, you must stop and give your name and address to anyone involved.

• If you are unable to give your name and address at the scene, you must report the accident at a police station or to a member of the police force as soon as possible, within 24 hours.
• Review information on Anguilla’s Vehicles and Road Traffic Act.

Taxis and ride-shares

Taxis are generally safe in Anguilla. Meters are generally not used, and fares are fixed by zone.

• Common ride-share apps like Uber or Lyft may not be available in Anguilla.

Public and commercial transportation

• There is no formal public transportation system in Anguilla.  
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Anguilla meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Anguilla 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 – From June to November, hurricanes can hit Anguilla. The peak hurricane season is August through October. These storms can bring dangerous winds, heavy rain, and flooding.
• Tropical storms – From June to November, tropical storms with strong winds and heavy rain can occur. These storms can cause flooding and damage even if they don't become full hurricanes.
• Storm surge and coastal flooding – During hurricanes and tropical storms, ocean water can rise quickly and flood coastal areas. This is especially dangerous for low-lying parts of the island.
• Drought—During dry seasons in the winter and spring, Anguilla can experience water shortages because the island has limited freshwater resources.
• Earthquakes — Year-round, earthquakes can happen because Anguilla is in an active seismic zone. Most are small, but larger ones are possible.

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 Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates

There is no U.S. consular presence in Anguilla. Please contact the U.S. Embassy in Barbados for assistance.