Barbados

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 211 for police 
• Dial 511 for ambulance
• Dial +246 523-5071 for domestic violence hotline

Crime

Violent crime can occur in Barbados. U.S. citizens and other foreigners in Barbados have been victims of violent crime. This includes sexual assault, robbery, shootings, and drug related crimes. Police response times are not as fast as in the United States, and police reports may be difficult to obtain.

Petty crime is common, especially in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings. Tourists should beware of overcharging and scams in tourist areas. You may encounter aggressive vendors. Most sites have tourist police available to help in uncomfortable situations.

Safety tips:

• Do not leave valuables unattended in public areas, on beaches, unsecured in hotel rooms, or in rental homes.
• Avoid walking alone, especially at night, on beaches, and in remote or poorly lit locations.
• Go out in groups or with a companion. Limit nighttime activities to established safe and trusted venues.
• Stick to well-lit and well-traveled routes.
• Avoid displaying flashy jewelry, expensive electronics, and large amounts of cash.
• Use added caution when attending crowded events, such as Crop Over, Kadooment celebrations, music festivals, etc.
• Do not leave drinks unattended in public venues. This increases the risk that someone may use drugs to facilitate a crime against you.
• Prostitution and drug use, including marijuana, is illegal. Do not engage in illegal activity.
• For boaters: Be wary of unfamiliar people or crafts approaching your boat at anchor and at sea.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Financial scams and internet romance scams can occur in Barbados. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

If using dating apps or websites in Barbados:

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person.
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule.

Victims of crime

Exercise extra vigilance at night on party cruises and in the downtown area.

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 211.

Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care. 
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence 

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance at 246-227-4000. 

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Drone operation is regulated in Barbados. Visit the Barbados Civil Aviation Department for more information.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare. 
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs. 
• Staff may not be trained or certified. 
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care. 
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies. 
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance. 

Adventure travel

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Water Safety

Water activities can be dangerous. Before you swim or participate in any water activity:

• Know your limits. Assess your physical abilities before getting in the water.
• Never go alone. Avoid remote beaches and do not swim far out to sea by yourself.
• Do not drink and swim. If you have been drinking, stay out of water above your waist.
• Watch for boat and jet ski traffic. Always be aware of watercraft in the area.
• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.

• Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs or firearms are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Barbados seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.
• Do not enter Barbados with firearms or ammunition without prior and clear permission from the Barbados government. Please contact the Embassy of Barbados with questions regarding travel with firearms.
• Camouflage clothing is illegal in Barbados. Like in some Eastern Caribbean destinations, it is only allowed for military personnel. Customs officials may take camouflage items if found in luggage.

Arrest notification 

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations. 

• They may be illegal according to local laws.  
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.  
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.  

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:  

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

Consensual same‑sex sexual relations between adults are legal in Barbados. There are no specific laws banning gay and lesbian services or events.

• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Barbados prohibits discrimination against people disabilities in employment but it does not extend to other public services. The law is enforced.

• Barbados’s Town and Country Planning Department sets provisions for all public buildings to include accessibility infrastructure. As a result, many new buildings have ramps, reserved parking, and special sanitary facilities.
• Expect accessibility to be limited in access to most buildings, pedestrian paths, and transportation. Sidewalks (if they exist) are very uneven and will only occasionally have ramps at intersections.
• Pedestrian crossings are also very infrequent and can be poorly marked. Buses and taxis do not have special accommodations.
• General public sentiment around disability in Barbados is generally positive, but accessibility is limited.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.  

Women travelers  

• Review our information for Women Travelers. 
• Review our information on Marriage. 
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Barbados Traveler Information Page  provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations. 
• CDC Medical Tourism information 
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 511 for ambulance emergency medical services. 

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are widely available. However, training and response time of emergency responders may differ from U.S. standards. 
• Ambulances are prohibited from applying life saving techniques during transport.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not. 

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Barbados. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient.  
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical 

If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims. 

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities 

Health facilities are available throughout Barbados. 

• Hospitals and doctors require payment upfront prior to service or admission. 
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals. 
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Medical tourism and elective surgery 

Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. If you want healthcare abroad, you need to know that their medical systems are different from the United States. They don't follow the same rules. 

• Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor. 
• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism. Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Barbados. 
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.  
• Your legal options in case of malpractice may be limited in Barbados. 

Common diseases

The following diseases are present in Barbados:

• Chikungunya
• Dengue
• Zika

Prescription medications 

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. 

• Check with the Government of Barbados to ensure the medication is legal in Barbados. 
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls. 
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally. 

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States. 

For more information: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

If you are considering traveling to Barbados to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART), please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad. 

• Surrogacy is illegal for foreigners in Barbados.  

Water quality and food safety 

• Tap water is safe to drink and use in cooking. 
• While generally good, some residents note that tap water quality can vary, with potential for mineral taste or chlorine smells, particularly in certain areas.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. 
• Food standards in restaurants, hotels, and at local vendors are generally high.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad. 

• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page. 
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow. 
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation 

Road conditions and safety

Main roads are generally safe and well-marked, though they often have potholes. 

• Secondary rural roads tend to be narrow, are sometimes inadequately marked, are potholed and rough, and have frequent blind curves. Use caution on these roads, especially at night. 
• Slow down if you see a stopped vehicle, whether traveling in the same or the opposite direction. This could mean that pedestrians are crossing. 
• Drivers often stop in the middle of the roadway without warning. 
• Always maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you and watch for signs of sudden braking.

Traffic laws  

U.S. citizens need a valid U.S. driver’s license and a temporary Barbados visitors driving permit (approximately BBD $10) to drive in Barbados.

• Driving is on the left-hand side of the road.
• Rental car companies provide basic car insurance. Confirm insurance details with your rental company before you drive.
• Barbados traffic law requires that vehicles involved in an accident remain unmoved until your rental car’s insurance company arrives and takes a report, even if the vehicles involved are blocking traffic.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Registered taxis are generally safe to use.
• Traditional ride-share apps are not widely available or used in Barbados.

Public and commercial transportation 

Large public buses are generally safe. 

Private vans and small buses are often crowded and tend to travel at excessive speeds. 

• Avoid private minibuses, known as “Zed-R buses” because of license plates which begin with the letter Z. Drivers frequently drive erratically.
• Visit the website of Barbados’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight 

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Barbados’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.  

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Barbados should check the following:  

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings 
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

The U.S. Coast Guard has concerns about the security practices in the ports of Barbados. Mariners and passengers in Barbados ports should be careful and use stronger security measures. 

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Hurricanes

Hurricane season in Barbados is from June to November.  

• Peak activity is usually from August to October. 
• Barbados lies in the Atlantic hurricane belt and can be affected by tropical storms and hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season. 
•  While the island's eastern location means it experiences fewer direct hits than some Caribbean islands, hurricanes can still bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, flooding, and storm surge.

Flooding

Flooding can happen during the rainy season from June to November.  

• Heavy rainfall associated with tropical weather systems can cause flash flooding and localized flooding. 
• This is common in low-lying areas or areas with poor drainage.

U.S citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates