Consular Information Sheet - December 27, 2000

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
Cyprus is a developed Mediterranean island nation divided "de facto" into two areas. The Government of the Republic of Cyprus is the internationally recognized authority on the island but, in practice, its control extends only to the Greek Cypriot southern part of the island. The northern area operates under an autonomous Turkish Cypriot administration. In 1983, this administration declared itself the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus," which is recognized only by Turkey. Facilities for tourism in the Republic of Cyprus are highly developed; most facilities in northern Cyprus, while adequate, tend to be smaller and less modern.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
A passport is required. Tourist and business visas are issued at the port of entry for a stay of up to three months.

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French West Indies

Consular Information Sheet - February 22, 2001

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
The French West Indies consists of two French overseas departments, Martinique and Guadeloupe, and their dependencies. These islands are well developed. In the sub-prefects of St. Martin (French side) and St. Barthelemy, English is widely spoken, and U.S. currency is accepted.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Passports are required of U.S. citizens entering the French West Indies. Visitors who arrive on a commercial air carrier with a round-trip ticket may enter for up to 90 days without a visa. For further information, travelers can contact the Embassy of France at 4101 Reservoir Road, N.W., Washington, DC 20007; telephone 1 202 944-6000; or the nearest French consulate in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, New Orleans or San Francisco; Internet: http://www.info-france-usa.org.

DUAL NATIONALITY:
In addition to being subject to all French laws affecting U.S. citizens, dual nationals may also be subject to other laws that impose special obligations on French citizens. Although France recognizes dual nationality, dual nationals are considered French citizens and are subject to French laws without regard to the other nationality. For additional information, visit the Consular Affairs home page on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov/ for our Dual Nationality flyer.

CRIME:
Petty street crime occurs throughout the French West Indies, but has increased in St. Martin. Valuables left on beaches or locked in rental cars are subject to theft.

The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. U.S. citizens may refer to the Department of State's pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad," for ways to promote a more trouble-free journey. The pamphlet is available by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402, via the Internet at http://www.access.gpo.gov/su_docs, or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov/.

MEDICAL FACILITIES:
Medical care is available throughout the French West Indies. Martinique has the best medical care in the Eastern Caribbean, with 13 hospitals. Guadeloupe also has good medical care. Not all doctors speak or understand English.

MEDICAL INSURANCE: U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas may face extreme difficulties.

Please check with your own insurance company to confirm whether your policy applies overseas, including provision for medical evacuation, and for adequacy of coverage. Serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the U.S. can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Please ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas hospital or doctor or if you will be reimbursed later for expenses that you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.

Useful information on medical emergencies abroad, including overseas insurance programs, is provided in the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs brochure, "Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad," available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page or autofax: 1-202-647-3000.

OTHER HEALTH INFORMATION:
Information on vaccinations and other health precautions may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747); fax 1-888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299), or via the CDC's Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov/.

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS:
While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the U.S. The information below concerning the French West Indies is provided for general reference only, and it may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Safety of Public Transportation: Fair
Urban Road Conditions/Maintenance: Good
Rural Road Conditions/Maintenance: Good
Availability of Roadside Assistance: Poor to Fair

The roads in the French West Indies are the best in the Eastern Caribbean. Both Martinique and Guadeloupe have some six-lane highways. Roads are well paved and well maintained. Traffic safety is enforced by the police. Night driving can be dangerous, especially in the mountains and on winding rural roads. Public transportation in the form of taxis and vans is relatively safe.

For additional general information about road safety, including links to foreign government sites, please see the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov/road_safety.html. For specific information concerning French West Indies driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax and mandatory insurance, please contact the French National Tourist Organization offices at http://www.franceguide.com/.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT:
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of France's Civil Aviation Authority as Category 1 -- in compliance with international aviation safety standards for oversight of French air carrier operations. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the U.S. at telephone 1-800-322-7873, or visit the FAA's Internet web site at http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa/.

The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) separately assesses some foreign air carriers for suitability as official providers of air services. For information regarding the DOD policy on specific carriers, travelers may contact the DOD at telephone 1-618-229-4801.

CUSTOMS REGULATIONS:
French customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from French West Indies of items such as firearms, medications, animals, etc. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of France or a French consulate for specific information regarding customs requirements. CRIMINAL PENALTIES:
While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the U.S. and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the U.S. for similar offenses. Persons violating French laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in the French West Indies are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines usually equaling the street value of the contraband.

CONSULAR ACCESS:
As there is no U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the French West Indies, U.S. citizens are encouraged to carry a copy of their U.S. passports with them at all times, so that, if questioned by local officials, proof of identity and U.S. citizenship are readily available.

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS:
The French West Indies can be affected by hurricanes. The hurricane season normally runs from June to the end of November, but there have been hurricanes in December in recent years. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available via the Internet from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at http://www.fema.gov/.

CHILDREN'S ISSUES:
For information on international adoption of children and international parental child abduction, please refer to our Internet site at http://travel.state.gov/children's_issues.html or telephone 1-202-736-7000.

REGISTRATION/EMBASSY AND CONSULATE LOCATIONS:
There is no U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the French West Indies. For assistance in the French West Indies, U.S. citizens may contact the U.S. Consular Agency at 9 Rue Des Alpinias, Dedier, Fort de France, Martinique, Monday-Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., except local and U.S. holidays; telephone (011) (596) 71-96-90 or fax (596) 71-96-89. The mailing address is P.O. Box 975, CEDEX 97246, Fort de France, Martinique. For after-hours service, American citizens may contact the U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown, Barbados, telephone 1-246-436-4950. U.S. citizens living in or visiting the French West Indies are encouraged to register at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown, and obtain updated information on travel and security within the French West Indies. The Consular Section is located in the American Life Insurance Company (ALICO) Building, Cheapside; telephone 1-246-431-0225; fax 1-246-431-0179; Internet: http://usembassy.state.gov/posts/bb1/wwwhemb1.html. The Consular Section is open for American Citizens Services from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday, except local and U.S. holidays.

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Grenada

Consular Information Sheet - September 5, 2000

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
Grenada is a developing Caribbean island nation. The capital is St. George's. Tourism facilities vary, according to price and area.

ENTRY AND EXIT REQUIREMENTS:
U.S. citizens may enter Grenada with proof of U.S. citizenship, (a certified birth certificate, a Naturalization/Citizenship Certificate, or a valid or expired passport) and photo identification. U.S. citizen visitors who enter Grenada without one or more of these documents, even if admitted by local immigration officials, may encounter difficulties in boarding flights to return to the U.S. No visa is required for a stay of up to three months. There is an airport departure charge for adults and for children between the ages of five and thirteen years of age. For additional information concerning entry/exit requirements, travelers may contact the Embassy of Grenada, 1701 New Hampshire Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009, telephone (202) 265-2561, e-mail grenada@oas.org, or the Consulate of Grenada in New York at telephone (212) 599-0301.

SAFETY AND SECURITY:
Grenada is a peaceful island. Terrorism and kidnappings are unknown. There are no extremist groups, areas of instability or organized crime within the island.

CRIME INFORMATION:
Street crime occurs occasionally in Grenada. Tourists have been victims of armed robbery in isolated areas, and thieves frequently steal U.S. passports, alien registration cards, and money. Muggings, purse-snatchings and other robberies may occur in areas near hotels, beaches and restaurants, particularly after dark. Visitors should exercise appropriate caution when walking after dark, or rely on taxis. Valuables left unattended on beaches are subject to theft. Visitors may wish to consult with local authorities, their hotels and/or the U.S. Embassy for current information.

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Hong Kong

Consular Information Sheet - November 30, 2000

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
Hong Kong, a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the People's Republic of China since July 1, 1997, continues to enjoy a high degree of autonomy, except in the areas of defense and foreign policy, and retains its own currency, laws, and border controls. It is composed of three geographic areas: the New Territories, Kowloon Peninsula, and Hong Kong Island. Hong Kong SAR is cosmopolitan and highly developed. Tourist facilities and services are widely available.

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Luxembourg

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
Luxembourg is a highly developed stable constitutional monarchy. Tourist facilities are widely available.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
A passport is required. A visa is not required for American citizens for business or tourist stays of up to 90 days. For further information concerning entry requirements for Luxembourg, travelers can contact the Embassy of Luxembourg at 2200 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, Tel. (202) 265-4171/72, or the Luxembourg consulates general in New York or San Francisco.

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Marshall Islands

Consular Information Sheet - September 8, 2000

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
The Republic of the Marshall Islands consists of two chains of coral atolls in the Central Pacific with a total area of approximately 705 square miles. The Republic of the Marshall Islands is a parliamentary democracy, constitutionally in free association with the United States of America. It has a developing agrarian and service-oriented economy. Tourist facilities are not widely available, but they are adequate. Hotels exist in the capital of Majuro and on Ebeye, the country's second most populous island. Water shortages are common.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Visas are not required for U.S. citizens. A valid passport, sufficient funds for a stay, and an onward/return ticket are required for stays up to 30 days (and may be extended for up to 90 days from the date of entry). A departure fee is required. A health certificate is required if arriving from infected areas. An AIDS test may be required for visits over 30 days. (U.S. test are accepted.) For further information on entry requirements for the Marshall Islands, please contact the Embassy of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, 2433 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008. The telephone number is (202) 234-5414. Also, please see the home page for the Embassy of the Marshall Islands at http://www.rmiembassyus.org/.

DUAL NATIONALITY:
U.S. citizens may obtain dual nationality at the discretion of the Cabinet of the Republic of the Marshall Islands. For more information, please contact the Embassy of the Republic of the Marshall Islands. In addition to being subject to all Republic of the Marshall Islands' laws affecting U.S. citizens, dual nationals may also be subject to other laws that impose special obligations on Marshall Islands citizens. For additional information, please see the Consular Affairs home page on the Internet at http//travel.state.gov for our Dual Nationality flyer.

CRIME INFORMATION:
The Republic of the Marshall Islands has a relatively low, but increasing crime rate. Most common crimes are break-ins and thefts from homes, hotel rooms and vehicles. Random acts of vandalism are also on the rise.

Mauritius

Consular Information Sheet - January 4, 2000

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
The Republic of Mauritius is an island nation in the southwestern Indian Ocean, with a stable government and growing economy. Facilities for tourism are well developed. English, French, and Creole are spoken. The capital city is Port Louis.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
A valid passport, onward/return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds are required. There is also an airport departure tax. Travelers should obtain the latest information and details from the Embassy of Mauritius at Suite 441, 4301 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone (202) 244-1491/2, or the Honorary Consulate in Los Angeles, telephone (310) 557-2009. Overseas inquiries may be made at the nearest Mauritian embassy or consulate.

Mexico

Consular Information Sheet - February 17, 2000

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
Mexico covers an area of 1,972,500 sq. km. or 761,000 sq. miles. It is about three times the size of Texas. The capital is located in Mexico City. The population of the area around Mexico City is about 20 million, the largest concentration of people in the world. The latest estimate (in 1997) has the population of Mexico at 95 million with an annual growth rate of 1.8%. Mexico has a chief executive (president); a bicameral legislature; a judicial system with a Supreme Court, local and federal courts; and an administrative subdivision of 31 states and one federal district. Mexico has a rapidly developing economy and has sought economic prosperity through liberalization of its trade regime. The climate ranges from tropical to desert, and the terrain consists of coastal lowlands, central high plateaus, and mountains up to 18,000 feet.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
The Government of Mexico requires that all U.S. citizens present proof of citizenship and photo identification for entry into Mexico. A U.S. passport is recommended, but other U.S. citizenship documents such as a certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate, a Naturalization Certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Citizenship are acceptable. U.S. citizens boarding flights to Mexico should be prepared to present one of these documents as proof of U.S. citizenship, along with photo identification. Driver's permits, voter registration cards, affidavits and similar documents are not sufficient to prove citizenship for readmission into the United States. A visa is not required for a tourist/transit stay up to 180 days. Travelers entering Mexico for purposes other than tourism require a visa and must carry a valid U.S. passport. The Government of Mexico charges an entry fee of $15.00 per person to U.S. citizens traveling to Mexico's interior.

Monaco

Consular Information Sheet - July 27, 2000

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
Monaco is a developed constitutional monarchy.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
A passport is required for entry to Monaco. A visa is not required for a tourist/business stay up to 90 days in France, Andorra, Monaco, and Corsica, and for a one-month stay in French Polynesia. For further information on entry requirements to Monaco, travelers may contact the Consulate General of Monaco at 565 - 5th Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10017, tel. (212) 759-5227. The web site of the French Embassy in the United States is www.france-consulat.org.

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Nauru

Consular Information Sheet - April 11, 2000

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
Nauru, a small single-island nation in the South Pacific, is about 25 miles south of the equator. It is a constitutional republic with a parliamentary system of government. Its economy is based on the export of phosphates. Tourist facilities are available on a limited basis. Yaren, the capital, has an international airport.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
A passport, visa, onward/return ticket, and proof of hotel bookings (or sponsorship from a resident of Nauru) are required for tourists. Tourist visas are issued for a maximum of thirty days. Travelers transiting with valid ticket/onward destination do not require a visa, provided that the first connecting flight departs within three days of arrival in Nauru. Business visitors must have a visa and a local sponsor. Nauru collects a departure tax that must be paid in cash and in Australian dollars. For more information on entry/exit requirements, travelers may wish to contact the Nauru Consulate General in Melbourne, Australia at telephone (613) 9653-5709, fax (613) 9654-4738.

Netherlands Antilles

Consular Information Sheet - November 3, 2000

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
The Netherlands Antilles is an autonomous part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands comprised of five islands: Bonaire, Curacao, Saba, St. Eustatius (aka Statia), and Sint Maarten (aka St. Maarten) (Dutch side). Tourist facilities are widely available.

Nigeria

Consular Travel Warning - April 7, 2000

The Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the dangers of travel to Nigeria. Nigeria has limited tourist facilities and conditions pose considerable risks to travelers.

Violent crime, committed by ordinary criminals, as well as by persons in police and military uniforms, can occur throughout the country. Kidnapping for ransom of persons associated with the petroleum sector, including U.S. citizens, remains common in the Niger Delta area.

Use of public transportation throughout Nigeria is dangerous and should be avoided. Taxis pose risks because of the possibility of fraudulent or criminal operators and poorly maintained vehicles. Most Nigerian airlines have aging fleets, and there are valid concerns that maintenance and operational procedures may be inadequate to ensure passenger safety.

Nigerian-based business, charity and other scams target foreigners worldwide and pose a danger of financial loss. Recipients pursuing such fraudulent offers risk physical harm if they come to Nigeria. Persons contemplating business deals in Nigeria are strongly urged to check with the U.S. Department of Commerce or the U.S. Department of State before providing any information or making any financial commitments. No one should provide personal financial or account information to unknown parties. An invitation to enter Nigeria without a visa is normally indicative of illegal activity. Under no circumstances should U.S. citizens travel to Nigeria without a valid visa. Furthermore, the ability of U.S. Embassy officers to extricate U.S. citizens from unlawful business deals and their consequences is extremely limited.

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
Nigeria is a developing west African country that has experienced periods of political instability. Its internal infrastructure is neither fully functional nor well maintained. The inauguration of President Olusegun Obasanjo on May 29, 1999 marked the return of civilian rule after sixteen years of military governments.

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Panama

Consular Information Sheet - September 6, 2000

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
Panama has a developing economy. The capital is Panama City. Outside the Panama City area, which has many first class hotels and restaurants, tourist facilities vary in quality. U.S. currency is valid in Panama, and it is exchangeable on a one-to-one basis with the Panamanian balboa. As of December 31, 1999, all former U.S. military facilities in Panama were transferred to Panamanian control.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
U.S. citizens are encouraged to obtain a U.S. passport before traveling to Panama. Although entry into Panama is permitted with any proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a certified birth certificate or a naturalization certificate) and official photo identification (such as a driver's license), travelers may experience difficulties entering Panama or returning to the United States when not in possession of a valid U.S. passport. Panamanian law requires that travelers must either purchase a tourist card from the airline serving Panama or obtain a visa from a Panamanian embassy or consulate before traveling to Panama. Further information may be obtained from the Embassy of Panama, 2862 McGill Terrace, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009, tel. 202/483-1407 or from the Panamanian consulates in Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, Philadelphia or Tampa.

U.S. citizens transiting the Panama Canal as passengers do not need to obtain visas, report to customs, or pay any fees. U.S. citizens piloting private craft through the canal should contact the U.S. Embassy in Panama City for details on required procedures.

SAFETY AND SECURITY:
Travel toward Colombia beyond Yaviza in Darien Province and Punta Carreto in Comarca de San Blas Province may be dangerous. There is limited Panamanian police presence in these areas, which are known to be frequented by Colombian guerrillas and paramilitary groups, drug smugglers, and undocumented aliens. Travel beyond Yaviza towards the Colombian border is possible only by foot, and it is risky for individual travelers or small groups. This information also pertains to the Ancon Nature Preserve at Cana in the Darien National Park, due to its proximity to the Colombian border and possible cross-border activity by Colombian rebels.

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Seychelles

Consular Information Sheet - November 30, 2000

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
The Seychelles is an island nation in the Indian Ocean off the eastern coast of Africa. The principal island of Mahe has a population of about 78,000. The two other islands with significant permanent populations are Praslin and La Digue. Facilities for tourism are generally well developed.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
A valid passport, onward/return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds are required. A one-month entry visa may be obtained upon arrival, and it may be extended for a period up to one year. There is an airport departure tax of $40.00, which must be paid in U.S. dollars. For further information, travelers should contact the Permanent Mission of the Seychelles to the United Nations, 800 Second Avenue, Suite 400C, New York, N.Y. 10017; telephone (212) 972-1785.

St. Kitts & Nevis

Consular Information Sheet - March 29, 2000

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
St. Kitts and Nevis is a developing Caribbean island nation. Tourist facilities are widely available.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
A valid U.S. passport or certified U.S. birth certificate and a picture identification that contains both name and date of birth are required of U.S. citizens entering St. Kitts and Nevis. Visitors should also have a valid return ticket. St. Kitts and Nevis immigration recommends that visitors put their full home address in the U.S. on their arrival cards in order to facilitate the entry process. Stays of up to one month are granted at immigration. Anyone requiring an extension must apply to the Ministry of National Security. There is an airport departure tax. For further information, travelers can contact the Embassy of St. Kitts and Nevis, 3216 New Mexico Avenue, N.W., OECS Building, Washington, D.C. 20016, telephone (202) 686-2636, the Permanent Mission to the UN in New York at (212) 535-1934, or the Internet here.

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Tavalu

Consular Information Sheet - April 10, 2000

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
Tuvalu is a self-governing member of the British Commonwealth. Its economy is based on agriculture, a coconut product called copra, tourism and fishing. Postage stamps, prized by collectors, are a major export.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
A passport, onward/return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds for the trip are required. Visitor permits are issued upon arrival. For further information about entry requirements, travelers may wish to contact the British Embassy in Washington, D.C. at 202-588-7800. This is particularly true for those persons planning to enter by sea.

Tonga

Consular Information Sheet - April 18, 2000

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
Tonga is a stable constitutional monarchy and a member of the British Commonwealth. Its agrarian economy is developing and its tourist industry, although limited, is growing. Tourist facilities are concentrated in and around the main island of Tongatupu where the capital, Nuku'alofa, is located.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
The Tongan Tourist Bureau, which has a wide range of information of interest to travelers, can be contacted here.

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United Kingdom and Gibraltar

Consular Information Sheet - December 4, 2000

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
The United Kingdom is a highly developed constitutional monarchy comprising England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland; Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory. Tourist facilities are widely available.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
A passport is required. Tourists are not obliged to obtain a visa for stays of up to six months in the United Kingdom or to enter Gibraltar. Those wishing to remain longer than one month in Gibraltar should regularize their stay with Gibraltar immigration authorities.

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