Anguilla travel guide
About Anguilla
Beyoncé. Paul McCartney. Denzel Washington. Expect to keep good company if you’re holidaying in Anguilla, which has become something of a hangout for the rich and famous in recent years.
Though not the most accessible Caribbean island (geographically and financially speaking), that is precisely why this British Overseas Territory is so appealing for the jet set. There are other reasons, of course. Anguilla also lays claim to some of the finest beaches in the region, as well as some of the most luxurious hotels. Suffice to say, it’s not the place to be penny pinching.
That said, some visitors do just that: favourable tax rates have earned Anguilla a reputation as a place to squirrel away the dollars. However, the island’s true riches lie below the waves, where you will find spectacular coral reef formations and a staggering diversity of marine life: from stingrays to sharks, turtles to tropical fish, there’s as much to see on the seafloor as there is on the shore.
Sailing is another popular pastime in Anguilla and it doesn’t take long to navigate the tiny island and its eight largely uninhabited cays.
If it sounds like a playground for the rich that’s because it is, but that’s not to say more wallet-friendly options don’t exist. There are a range of holiday villas and midrange hotels to suit more modest budgets. A night out needn’t cost the Earth either: potent cocktails go for reasonable prices in Anguilla’s ubiquitous beach bars.
Those who like their food are in for an unexpected treat. The restaurant scene is excellent and there is a surprising range of cuisine, from fine French fare to local dishes. Don’t leave without feasting on buttery Anguillan lobster.
For the culturally minded, Anguilla has many galleries showcasing local art, not to mention a delightfully eccentric museum. Wherever you are though, those beautiful beaches are only minutes away.
Key facts
91 sq km (35 sq miles).
14,764 (UN estimate 2016).
164 per sq km.
The Valley.
British Overseas Territory.
Chief Minister Ellis Webster since 2020.
Travel Advice
Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for Anguilla’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.
If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting.
It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.
Most visits to Anguilla are trouble-free. However, cases of robbery and other crimes do occur. See Crime
Anguilla is a British Overseas Territory. There is therefore no British diplomatic or consular representation. The local authorities deal with all requests for emergency assistance. See Emergency assistance
The hurricane season normally runs from June to November. You should monitor local and international weather updates from the US National Hurricane Centre and follow the advice of local authorities, including any evacuation orders. See Natural disasters. You should monitor the Governor’s Office and the Department for Disaster Management in Anguilla Facebook pages for updates.
Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Anguilla, attacks cannot be ruled out. See Terrorism
Coronavirus travel health
Check the latest information on risk from COVID-19 for Anguilla on the TravelHealthPro website
See the TravelHealthPro website for further advice on travel abroad and reducing spread of respiratory viruses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
International travel
Anguilla’s ports, sea and air, are open to returning residents and visitors.
Entry and borders
For current regulations on entering Anguilla, see Entry requirements.
When you return, you must follow the rules for entering the UK.
You are responsible for organising your own COVID-19 test, in line with UK government testing requirements. You should contact the Anguilla Ministry of Health on +1 264 497 3930 for information on testing facilities.
Be prepared for your plans to change
No travel is risk-free during COVID-19. Countries may further restrict travel or bring in new rules at short notice, for example due to a new COVID-19 variant. Check with your travel company or airline for any transport changes which may delay your journey home.
If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment there. See Healthcare in Anguilla for more information on what you must do if you receive a positive COVID-19 test.
Plan ahead and make sure you:
- can access money
- understand what your insurance will cover
- can make arrangements to extend your stay and be away for longer than planned
Travel in Anguilla
Further information can be found on the Government of Anguilla COVID-19 website and the Government of Anguilla website.
COVID-19 Healthcare in Anguilla
The public are asked to call the COVID-19 hotline on + 1 264 476 7627 if you suspect you might have contracted the coronavirus, been exposed to the coronavirus, or have any questions relating to your health and coronavirus. Do not visit a healthcare facility unless instructed to. The Health Authority have also set up a dedicated COVID-19 information website.
You will be contacted by the Health Authority if you receive a positive COVID-19 test. The Health Authority will advise you whether you can self-isolate where you have been staying and for how long, along with anyone you are staying with, or whether you need to enter a government approved quarantine facility. You will need a negative test to leave self-isolation.
Your emotional and mental wellbeing is important. Read guidance on how to look after your mental wellbeing and mental health
View Health for further details on healthcare in Anguilla
See also the guidance on healthcare if you’re waiting to return to the UK.
Finance
For information on financial support you can access whilst abroad, visit our financial assistance guidance.
Further information
For further UK government guidance on support you can access whilst abroad, visit our waiting to return guidance. This includes guidance on finance, health, and staying connected.
If you need urgent assistance, see Emergency assistance
Crime
Crime levels are low. However, you should take sensible precautions such as:
- locking doors and windows at night and securing your car when you leave it.
- avoid isolated areas, including beaches after dark.
- don’t carry large amounts of cash or jewellery.
- valuables and travel documents should be left, where possible, in safety deposit boxes and hotel safes.
- don’t offer resistance if an armed robbery is attempted.
Road travel
There is no public transport except taxis, but car rental is widely available. You will need to bring your driving licence if you plan to rent a car and obtain a local driving licence from the car rental company at a cost of US $25 (which is valid for 3 months), and car hire costs approximately US$50 per day. Most rental cars are automatic. If you want a manual one, it’s best to order in advance. Driving is on the left, the same as in the UK. Take care when overtaking as most vehicles are left hand drive. Observe speed limits and do not drink and drive.
Air travel
Blowing Point Ferry Terminal is open to returning residents and vaccinated visitors.
For current regulations on entering Anguilla, see Entry requirements
Sea travel
Blowing Point Ferry Terminal is open to returning residents and vaccinated visitors.
For current regulations on entering Anguilla, see Entry requirements
Emergency assistance
As Anguilla is a British Overseas Territory there’s no British diplomatic or consular representation. The local authorities deal with all requests for emergency assistance.
In an emergency, including marine response, dial 911 for a local emergency response.
Hospital: Telephone: +(1 264) 497 2551
Victims of crime should contact the Royal Anguilla Police Force: Telephone: +(1 264) 497 2333.
Marriage, Birth and Death registration enquiries: Judicial Department Telephone: +(1 264) 476 2377
Immigration and Visa information: Anguilla Immigration Department Telephone: +(1 264) 497 3994 email: Immigration@gov.ai
Passport Information: Anguilla Passport Office Telephone: +(1 264) 497 7394
Disaster Management: Telephone: +(1 264) 497 2926; website: https://www.facebook.com/ddmaxa/
Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Anguilla, attacks can’t be ruled out.
There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad
Anguilla is a separate legal jurisdiction to the United Kingdom and has its own laws.
There are harsh penalties if you are caught with drugs of any kind.
Topless/nude bathing is not permitted.
You should observe the customs regulations on the importation and exportation of agricultural products and the protection of marine and animal life. Some marine and animal specimens may not be taken from the island. If in doubt, check with the local customs authorities.
LGBT+
There’s no provision for marriage or civil partnerships between same-sex couples. Hotels and resorts are generally welcoming, regardless of sexual orientation. Local attitudes can be conservative and some people may not approve of public displays of affection between same-sex couples. See this information and advice page for the LGBT community before you travel.
This page has information on travelling to Anguilla.
This page reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British Citizen’ passport, for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Anguilla set and enforce entry rules. If you’re unsure how Anguilla’s entry requirements apply to you, contact its UK office
All travellers
All travellers should familiarise themselves with the entry rules for Anguilla before travel.
As of 1 October 2022, there are no pre-arrival testing or entry requirements for persons travelling to Anguilla.
Check your passport and travel documents before you travel
You should check with your transport provider or travel company to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements.
Passport validity
If you are visiting or resident in Anguilla, your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the date you arrive.
Visas
British citizens don’t need a visa to enter Anguilla as a visitor, but accommodation must be booked prior to arrival. Visitors will be granted entry for a 3-month period. A work permit is required for any form of employment during your stay.
Departure tax
A departure tax is payable at the airport when departing Anguilla by air and at the ferry terminal when leaving Anguilla by sea to either French St. Martin or Dutch St. Maarten. The amount you pay is dependent on a number of factors including age, whether you are leaving Anguilla on a day trip or longer, and whether you are travelling to neighbouring French St. Martin, Dutch St. Maarten or elsewhere.
If you have a health condition, or you are pregnant, you may need specialist healthcare abroad. Check whether your destination country can provide the healthcare you may need and ensure you have appropriate travel insurance for unexpected medical evacuation or local treatment.
See the Coronavirus travel health and Healthcare sections in the Coronavirus page for COVID-19 health information.
General health
At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website. Each overseas territory page has information on vaccine recommendations, any current health risks or outbreaks, and factsheets with information on staying healthy abroad. Guidance is also available from NHS (Scotland) on the FitForTravel website.
General information on travel vaccinations and a travel health checklist is available on the NHS website. You may then wish to contact your health adviser or pharmacy for advice on other preventive measures and managing any pre-existing medical conditions while you’re abroad.
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in the UK can be different in overseas territories. If you’re travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines. For further information on the legal status of a specific medicine, you’ll need to contact the local territory government.
While travel can be enjoyable, it can sometimes be challenging. There are clear links between mental and physical health, so looking after yourself during travel and when abroad is important. Information on travelling with mental health conditions is available in our guidance page. Further information is also available from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC).
Health risks
UK health authorities have classified Anguilla as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. For more information and advice, visit the website of the National Travel Health Network and Centre website.
Medical treatment
If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 911 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.
There is one small hospital, one private day-hospital, 4 functioning public clinics (GP surgeries) and several private clinics on the Island. Patients requiring major surgery may need to be transferred to a neighbouring island.
Scuba divers should note that there are no facilities on the island for treating decompression sickness. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.
The hurricane season in the Caribbean normally runs from June to November. You should monitor local and international weather updates from the World Meteorological Organisation and the National Hurricane Centre.
See our Tropical cyclones page for advice about how to prepare effectively and what to do if you’re likely to be affected by a hurricane or tropical cyclone.
Most major credit cards are accepted in local shops, hotels and restaurants. The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC$). It is pegged to the US Dollar at around EC$2.7 = 1 US Dollar. US Dollars are widely accepted. The territory has modern banking facilities, including ATM machines.
If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission. If you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad, contact the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in London on 020 7008 5000 (24 hours).
Foreign travel checklist
Read our foreign travel checklist to help you plan for your trip abroad and stay safe while you’re there.
Travel safety
The FCDO travel advice helps you make your own decisions about foreign travel. Your safety is our main concern, but we can’t provide tailored advice for individual trips. If you’re concerned about whether or not it’s safe for you to travel, you should read the travel advice for the country or territory you’re travelling to, together with information from other sources you’ve identified, before making your own decision on whether to travel. Only you can decide whether it’s safe for you to travel.
When we judge the level of risk to British nationals in a particular place has become unacceptably high, we’ll state on the travel advice page for that country or territory that we advise against all or all but essential travel. Read more about how the FCDO assesses and categorises risk in foreign travel advice.
Our crisis overseas page suggests additional things you can do before and during foreign travel to help you stay safe.
Refunds and cancellations
If you wish to cancel or change a holiday that you’ve booked, you should contact your travel company. The question of refunds and cancellations is a matter for you and your travel company. Travel companies make their own decisions about whether or not to offer customers a refund. Many of them use our travel advice to help them reach these decisions, but we do not instruct travel companies on when they can or can’t offer a refund to their customers.
For more information about your rights if you wish to cancel a holiday, visit the Citizens Advice website. For help resolving problems with a flight booking, visit the website of the Civil Aviation Authority. For questions about travel insurance, contact your insurance provider and if you’re not happy with their response, you can complain to the Financial Ombudsman Service.
Registering your travel details with us
We’re no longer asking people to register with us before travel. Our foreign travel checklist and crisis overseas page suggest things you can do before and during foreign travel to plan your trip and stay safe.
Previous versions of FCDO travel advice
If you’re looking for a previous version of the FCDO travel advice, visit the National Archives website. Versions prior to 2 September 2020 will be archived as FCO travel advice. If you can’t find the page you’re looking for there, send the Travel Advice Team a request.
Further help
If you’re a British national and you have a question about travelling abroad that isn’t covered in our foreign travel advice or elsewhere on GOV.UK, you can submit an enquiry, or contact us on Twitter or Facebook. We’re not able to provide tailored advice for specific trips.
