Antigua and Barbuda Travel Restriction: Key Rules for Visitors

Dreaming of a Caribbean getaway? Antigua and Barbuda welcomes you! US, UK, and Canadian citizens enjoy visa-free entry, while other nationalities can explore various visa options, including 30-day visa-free travel for Chinese and Cuban citizens. Plan your trip with confidence by enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for important updates and emergency assistance. Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations like Hepatitis A and B, and stay informed about the latest COVID-19 travel guidelines. Discover the beauty of Antigua and Barbuda while staying safe and informed – start planning your adventure today!
Important information

- US, UK, and Canadian citizens can enter visa-free for up to 90 days (US), six months (UK and Canada).
- Check the latest COVID-19 guidelines as they may require vaccination proof, negative tests, or quarantine.
- Consult a doctor about recommended vaccinations like Hepatitis A and B at least six weeks before traveling.
- Be aware of petty theft, use licensed taxis, and negotiate fares in advance.
- While large sums of cash can be brought in or out, amounts exceeding US$10,000 should be declared.
Antigua and Barbuda Travel Advisory
Traveling to Antigua and Barbuda requires observing standard safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure. In case of emergencies, contact local police by dialing 911 or 999. The Antiguan and Barbudan government welcomes U.S. visitors, and no travel bans are currently in effect. However, staying informed about potential changes is advisable.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This ensures you’ll receive updates and have access to emergency assistance, including help connecting with family and friends.
Consult your doctor for personalized health recommendations before your trip. Review the latest travel health information to ensure you’re adequately prepared.
Have a safe and enjoyable trip.
Entry and Visa Requirements for Visitors
Entry requirements for Antigua and Barbuda vary based on your citizenship. Citizens of the US, UK, and Canada can enter visa-free. This also applies to citizens of the European Union, the Commonwealth, and several other nations. Most other nationalities require a visa in advance, except for Chinese and Cuban citizens who can enjoy a 30-day visa-free stay. A valid passport is mandatory for all travelers. Unless you hold a US, UK, or Canadian passport, consult your local consulate for specific visa information. Be sure to review the latest COVID-19 travel guidelines before your trip, as these may include vaccination proof, a negative test result, or quarantine upon arrival.
Passport Validity and Types
For your trip to Antigua and Barbuda, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your departure date. Ensure it won’t expire before then.
Tourist Visa and Maximum Stay
Visa-free travel to Antigua and Barbuda is available for citizens of certain countries. US citizens can stay for up to 90 days without a visa. Canadian and UK citizens can enjoy even longer stays of up to six months. Other nationalities should verify visa requirements by contacting their local Antiguan embassy or consulate for detailed information.
Vetting and Screening Procedures
Antigua and Barbuda maintains standard immigration protocols, including passport verification and screening against security databases. This ensures safety and efficient processing for all travelers.
Health and Medical Precautions
Planning a trip to Antigua and Barbuda? Be sure to protect yourself against hepatitis A, a significant health risk for visitors. Vaccination for hepatitis B is also advisable. Review recommended vaccines and medications before departure to ensure a healthy and enjoyable vacation.
Vaccination and Health Recommendations
Six weeks before your trip, visit your doctor or a travel clinic to ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date. These typically include measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), and both hepatitis A and B. The COVID-19 vaccine is also recommended. Additionally, consider travel health insurance, particularly a policy that covers medical evacuation. This is a wise safeguard.
Safety and Security Measures
Stay safe in Antigua and Barbuda by following these guidelines. Be aware of petty theft and secure your valuables. Walk with companions at night and use licensed, clearly marked taxis. Avoid accepting rides from strangers. While less common, violent crime can occur; report any incidents to the local police and contact your embassy if needed. Take precautions with your health by drinking safe water and seeking immediate medical care for animal bites or scratches. Respect local laws during your stay.
Understanding Local Laws and Regulations
Before traveling to Antigua and Barbuda, familiarize yourself with the local laws. Ignorance of the regulations is not an excuse, and violations, particularly drug-related offenses, can result in severe penalties, including prosecution in the U.S. Observing local customs respectfully, especially in public spaces, will also contribute to a trouble-free trip.
Financial and Customs Regulations
The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC$). You are welcome to bring in or take out any amount of local or foreign currency, but amounts exceeding US$10,000 must be declared. Your departure tax is usually included in your airfare.Personal belongings are typically duty-free. However, some restrictions apply to items like firearms, ammunition, and drugs. For specifics on import regulations, it is best to consult with customs officials.
Currency Restrictions and Departure Tax
There are no restrictions on the amount of cash you can bring into or take out of Antigua and Barbuda. While declaring large sums is advisable, it’s not mandatory. Your departure tax is usually included in your airline ticket.
Customs Rules and Personal Belongings
Bring most personal belongings duty-free, including clothes, toiletries, and electronics. However, restricted items like firearms, ammunition, and illegal drugs are prohibited. For a hassle-free arrival, consult the Antigua and Barbuda Customs and Excise Division about duty-free allowances and restrictions before your trip.
Travel and Transportation Guidelines
Getting around the island is easy, with several transportation options available. Licensed taxis are a safe and convenient choice, but be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand. Public buses offer an economical way to travel across the island. For a different experience, try the local minivans, known as “dollar buses”. When using public transport, always be mindful of your belongings.
Using Taxis and Public Transport Safely
Staying safe during your travels is paramount. When choosing transportation, opt for clearly marked, authorized taxis. Negotiate the fare beforehand to prevent any unexpected costs. Avoid accepting rides from unmarked vehicles and refrain from traveling with strangers. Public transportation, while available, can be crowded and limited, so proceed with caution. Be aware that road conditions, especially in Barbuda, can be challenging.