LGBTQI+
Most LGBTQI+ travellers experience no difficulties when visiting other countries. Nevertheless, we advise you to do some research on your destination as you will be subject to domestic laws and judicial processes while there. Attitudes towards sexual orientation and gender identity can vary from country to country, both legally and socially, and it is important to familiarise yourself in advance. Visit our country-specific travel advice for more information before you travel.
Take normal precautions as you would at home if you plan on meeting other LGBTQI+ people abroad on dating apps or other forums. If you are in a country with hostile attitudes towards the LGBTQI+ community, exercise extra caution as police or organised groups may carry out entrapment campaigns in LGBTQI+ popular areas.
Homosexuality and homosexual relations are illegal in several countries and can carry heavy penalties. In such countries, a higher degree of caution is advised. Please consult our country-specific travel advice pages for further information.
Only some countries recognise same sex marriage and while some countries recognise same sex partnerships, you may need to prepare for the fact that your partnership may not be recognised while travelling, as this can have implications should you or your spouse/partner become ill as you may not be recognised as the next of kin. If this is the case, we advise you to explore the possibility of bringing written next of kin consent for you and your spouse, authorising them to access your medical information should you become ill or require hospitalisation.
Transgender people should review personal travel documentation and identification to ensure correct gender markers.
Organisations such as the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA) can also provide useful information: http://ilga.org/ (*Please note that this is not intended as an endorsement of the specific organisation listed. The Department is not involved in verifying or updating verified the information on websites maintained by private groups or organisations.)