Montserrat

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

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

Dial 911 or 999 for emergency services such as police, fire, or ambulance.

Crime

U.S. citizens are generally not specifically targeted for crime in the Eastern Caribbean islands. However, crimes of opportunity such as petty larceny, burglary, and automobile break-ins occur. There are also incidents of violent crime such as murder, sexual assault, robbery, shootings, and drug-related crimes.

Safety tips

As you would in any major metropolitan area of the United States, use the following personal security measures while traveling:

• Do not leave valuables unattended in public areas, on beaches, unsecured in hotel rooms, or in rental homes.
• Avoid walking alone, especially at night, on beaches, and in isolated or poorly lit areas.
• Go out in groups or with a companion and restrict 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 displaying flashy jewelry, expensive electronics, and large amounts of cash.
• Always be aware of your surroundings. If you see something suspicious or unusual, contact local police immediately.
• Use added caution when shopping in crowded areas, especially during the holiday season.
• Use added caution when attending crowded events, celebrations, music festivals, etc.
• Do not leave drinks unattended in public venues as this could create a potential vulnerability for the use of "date rape" drugs in furtherance of criminal activity.
• 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 are not common in Montserrat 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 Montserrat:

• 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.

• 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 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

Carefully assess the potential risks of recreational water activities and consider your physical capabilities and skills.

• Never venture out alone, particularly at remote beaches or far out to sea.
• Avoid entering the water above your waist if you have been drinking.
• Always be mindful of jet skis 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.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Montserrat seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification

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

Firearms

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

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 Montserrat. 

• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Montserrat may not prohibit discrimination against people with physical, sensory, or mental disabilities.

• Access to buildings, pedestrian paths, and transportation is extremely difficult for people with mobility issues.
• Sidewalks, if they exist, are very uneven and will only occasionally have ramps at intersections.
• Pedestrian crossings are very infrequent and can be poorly marked.
• Buses and taxis do not have special accommodations.
• Contact the U.S. embassy in Bridgetown to receive a list of providers.
• 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) Montserrat 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.

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 Montserrat. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Both private and 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.

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

Common diseases

The following diseases are present:

• Chikungunya
• Dengue

Healthcare facilities

Health facilities are available in St. John’s. It may be harder to find adequate health care in other areas of the island.

• 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 require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Generally, in hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight. 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, even in larger cities.
• Hospital-based care is only available through government institutions.

Prescription medications

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

• Check with the Government of Montserrat to ensure the medication is legal in Montserrat.
• 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 Montserrat 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 Montserrat with no clear legal protections for foreign intended parents.  Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by British courts.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Montserrat 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.
• Be aware that 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.
• 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

• 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.
• Drivers often stop in the middle of the roadway without warning.
• Always maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you and watch for signs of sudden braking.
• Automobiles may lack working safety and signaling devices.

Traffic laws

Driving is on the left-hand side of the road.

• For specific information concerning Montserrat driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax and mandatory insurance, visit the website for the Montserrat Tourist Board.
• To drive in Montserrat as a visitor, you must obtain a temporary visitor’s driving license issued by Montserrat, valid for up to 3 months.
• In any accident or injury, you should contact the Royal Montserrat Police Service (RMPS) right away; emergency numbers are 999 or 911, or you can call their main line at +1-664-491‑2555/6
• U.S. citizens should always carry documentation for rental cars including license when driving
• The driving culture is relaxed, but there can be non-compliance with speed limits so visitors should take caution.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Taxis in Montserrat are generally considered safe and are the main point‑to‑point transport option.
• Ride‑share apps have limited or no real presence on the island. You should plan around licensed taxis and pre‑arranged drivers.

Public and commercial transportation

Public transportation consists of minibuses and taxis.

• Visit the website of the Montserrat Tourist Board.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Montserrat 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 Montserrat 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

Volcanic activity 

The Soufrière Hills volcano is active and remains a significant hazard.

• Eruptions can produce debris flows, ash fall, and volcanic mudflows
• The southern two-thirds of the island, including the former capital Plymouth, remains an exclusion zone.
• Volcanic activity can occur with little warning.

Hurricanes and tropical storms

Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with peak activity from August to October.

• Montserrat is vulnerable to direct hits and near-misses from Atlantic hurricanes.
• Hurricanes can bring destructive winds, heavy rainfall, flooding, and storm surge.
• Even storms that do not reach hurricane strength can produce dangerous conditions Heavy rainfall can trigger flash flooding and landslides, particularly on volcanic slopes.
• Storm systems can develop and intensify rapidly in the Caribbean.

Earthquakes

Montserrat is in a seismically active region.

• Earthquakes are often associated with volcanic activity but can also occur independently.
• Tremors are relatively common and can range from minor to potentially damaging.

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