Safety and security

Terrorism

While the threat from terrorism is minimal, it is important not to rule out the risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by tourists and expatriates. 

Crime

Crime remains relatively low but you should take sensible precautions: 

• Don’t carry your passport unless absolutely necessary and leave a copy of your passport (and travel and insurance documents) with family or friends at home.
• Avoid showing large sums of money in public and don’t use ATMs after dark.
• Avoid dark and unlit streets and stairways, and arrange to be picked up or dropped off as close to your hotel or apartment entrance as possible.
• Lock doors and windows at night.

Reporting crime

If you’re a victim of a crime, report it to the local police immediately. And you can contact us at the Irish Embassy in Washington DC if you need help.

Driving

If you’re planning to drive in Anguilla, be careful and take these simple precautions:

• Bring your full Irish and international driving license and make sure you have adequate and appropriate insurance
• Keep your vehicle doors locked and your bags kept out of sight to prevent opportunistic bag-snatching if you’re stopped at traffic lights

Hiring a vehicle

If you’re hiring a vehicle, do not to hand over your passport as a form of security. If you’re allowing your passport to be photocopied, keep it in your sight at all times.

Local laws and customs

Illegal drugs

Illegal drug use (no matter what the drug) carries stiff penalties, including fines and long prison terms. 

Law enforcement

It’s illegal to sunbathe topless or nude in Anguilla.

Health

Vaccinations

Check with your doctor well in advance of travelling to see if you need any vaccinations.

Zika Virus

There have been outbreaks of Zika Virus (a dengue-like mosquito-borne disease) in Central and South America and the Caribbean. Irish Citizens especially those with a weakened immune system or women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant are advised to follow guidance available on the website of the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC).

Additional information

Visa  

Ask your travel agent or contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Anguilla, for information on the entry requirements for Anguilla.  Also you can also check with them how long your passport must be valid for.

Airport departure tax

If you’re staying more than 24 hours, an airport departure is payable for each adult (over the age of 12 years).

Medical facilities

We advise you to check with the medical clinic if they will accept your medical travel insurance as payment for emergency medical treatment, as well as liaising with your insurance company.

Hurricane season

The hurricane season in the Caribbean normally runs from July to October. You should pay close attention to local and international weather reports and follow the advice of local authorities.  You can monitor weather updates by accessing, for example, the Weather Channel, or the US National Hurricane Centre website.