Electricity

The electrical current in Anguilla is 110 volts, 60Hz. Flat blade attachment plugs and flat blades with round grounding pin plugs are in use.

Language

English is the official language in Anguilla.

Money

The official currency of Anguilla is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD), which is pegged to the US dollar. US dollars are widely accepted, and prices are often quoted in US dollars. It's still good to have some local currency for small purchases.

ATMs are available across the island, mainly in towns and tourist areas, allowing cash withdrawals in XCD. Most major credit and debit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. Visitors should inform their bank before travelling to avoid card issues.

Apple Pay is not supported in Anguilla, so travellers should not rely on it. Google Pay works for online and in-app purchases and can usually be used for in-store contactless payments where merchants have compatible terminals. Since not all merchants accept contactless payments, carrying a physical card or cash as backup is recommended.

Tipping

A service charge of 10 percent is typically included in restaurant and hotel bills. This charge generally covers gratuity for staff, and any additional tipping beyond this amount is left to the discretion of the customer.

Health

Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for all visitors, along with polio and tetanus vaccinations if their routine immunisations are not current. The mains water supply is chlorinated and generally safe to drink, but many visitors prefer bottled water as a precaution. Food on the island is considered safe, especially at reputable restaurants and hotels.

Medical facilities on Anguilla include one small hospital, a private day hospital, several public clinics, and private clinics. For major surgery or serious medical issues, patients may need to be transferred to neighbouring islands or the mainland USA. Travellers are strongly advised to have adequate medical insurance to cover treatment and possible medical evacuation.

Safety

Visits to Anguilla are trouble-free. The crime rate is low, but it's wise to take sensible precautions with valuables. Hurricanes usually affect the island between June and November.

Local customs

Skimpy clothes are frowned on and beaches don't permit nudity.

Doing business

Business revolves around tourism and, as Anguilla is a zero-tax jurisdiction, financial services. Light suits or buttoned up shirts are sufficient for meetings because of the balmy climate; office hours are Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm.

Duty free

Travellers can bring 200 cigarettes or 225g of tobacco, and 1 quart of wine or spirits into Anguilla without paying duty.

Communications

The international dialling code for Anguilla is +1 264. Travellers can purchase local SIM cards for unlocked phones and reliable WiFi is available across the island.

Passport & Visa

All visitors must have the required documents for their next destination, a return or onward ticket, and sufficient funds for their stay. Under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), travellers entering or re-entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean, including Anguilla, are required to present a valid passport or other approved travel document. A valid passport is also necessary when departing from the United States for international travel.

Entry requirements

There are no visa requirements for US citizens if they have an onward or return ticket, confirmation of accommodation, and can produce evidence of their ability to maintain themselves. Passports and other identification documents must be valid on arrival.

UK citizens do not require a visa for a maximum stay of three months. Passports must be valid for six months from the date UK visitors arrive.

Canadian passports must be valid for at least three months beyond the date visitors expect to leave Anguilla. A visa is not required.

Australian nationals do not require a visa for a maximum stay of three months. A valid passport is required.

South African nationals require a valid passport and a visa for Anguilla, unless they're holding a valid visa for the United Kingdom, the USA, or Canada for a maximum stay of three months.

Irish nationals do not require a visa for a maximum stay of three months. A valid passport is required.

New Zealand nationals do not require a visa for a maximum stay of three months. A valid passport is required.

Useful contacts

Anguilla Tourist Board, The Valley: www.ivisitanguilla.com

911 (General Emergency Helpline)