Official Global Travel Advisories
- Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice
- Avoid all cruise ship travel outside Canada until further notice
Mandatory COVID-19 testing
To be allowed to board a flight to Canada, all air passengers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken within 72 hours of their scheduled time of departure to Canada. If the traveller has a connecting flight to Canada, the pre-departure test must be conducted within 72 hours of the last direct flight to Canada. This means they may need to schedule a COVID-19 test at their transit city within 72 hours of their direct flight to Canada.
All travellers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, arriving to Canada by land are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken in the United States within 72 hours prior to crossing the border into Canada.
Alternatively, travellers can present a positive COVID-19 molecular test taken between 14 and 90 days prior to departure.
More information on measures in place to enter Canada – Government of Canada
Trinidad and Tobago Register Travel insurance Destinations
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Risk level(s)
Risk level(s)
COVID-19 – Global travel advisory
Effective date: March 13, 2020
Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice.
This advisory overrides other risk levels on this page, with the exception of any risk levels for countries or regions where we advise to avoid all travel.
Island of Trinidad - Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution in the island of Trinidad due to violent crime.
Island of Tobago - Take normal security precautions
Take normal security precautions in the island of Tobago.
Safety and security
Safety and security
COVID-19 – Preventative measures and restrictions
Preventative measures and restrictions are in place.
You must wear a face covering in public spaces as well as in public and private transportation.
If you violate the restrictions, you could be fined for endangering public health.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities, including those related to physical distancing
- Avoid crowded areas
Crime
Island of Trinidad
Violent crime, including armed robberies, assaults and sexual assault, occur frequently on the island of Trinidad, especially in the capital, Port of Spain. Tourists have been targeted.
Since 2018, incidents of kidnapping for ransom have increased. Cruise ship passengers should be very careful when walking around the docks in Port of Spain. Shootings, kidnappings and other gang- and drug-related violence also occur. There is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Petty theft and other crimes of opportunity tend to increase during the annual Carnival celebrations in February or March and during the Christmas holidays.
Remain highly vigilant in Laventille, Beetham Gardens, Sea Lots, Corcorite, Carenage, Morvant, the interior of Savannah Park, and at popular tourist sites such as Fort George, La Brea (Pitch Lake) and Las Cuevas Beach, where criminals have targeted foreigners. Gangs have followed cars leaving Trinidad’s Piarco International Airport to rob travellers at their destination.
Avoid unpopulated areas, such as scenic lookouts, especially after dark.
Avoid visiting isolated and unpatrolled beaches due to the risk of crime. On certain beaches, security is only provided from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Ensure that your personal belongings, passport and other travel documents are secure at all times. Do not carry large amounts of cash or show signs of affluence. If possible, stay in hotels or villas with guards and security cameras.
If possible, avoid travel outside Port of Spain after dark, especially along the Beetham Highway. Criminals have targeted cars stopped on this road and victims have been carjacked, assaulted and robbed. Drive with windows closed and doors locked, since thefts can occur at traffic lights or in slow-moving traffic.
Home invasions are common. If you are staying in either private or commercial accommodations, you should be aware of your surroundings at all times and ensure that windows and doors are securely locked.
There is little visible police presence in most areas of Trinidad.
Island of Tobago
Violent crime, including armed robberies, assaults and sexual assault, occur on the island of Tobago. Incidents against foreigners, including Canadians, have occurred.
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, also occurs. Tourists have been targeted.
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times
- Avoid unpatrolled beaches and isolated areas, especially after dark
- Ensure that your personal belongings, passport and other travel documents are secure at all times
Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.
Targets could include:
- public gatherings and festivals, such as Carnival
- government buildings, including schools
- places of worship
- airports and other transportation hubs and networks
- diplomatic missions
- public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places and exercise caution.
Demonstrations
Demonstrations, while rare, do occur and have the potential to suddenly turn violent. They can lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
Strikes also occur and may cause disruptions to essential services throughout Trinidad and Tobago.
Marches occur, but are usually peaceful and approved by the police.
Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings, follow the instructions of local authorities and monitor local media.
Major events
The Trinidad and Tobago Carnival and the Tobago Jazz Festival are two major events that are held each year. The Carnival takes place on the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. The Tobago Jazz Festival is usually held in April.
These events draw a large number of visitors. Crowding at key sites may attract pickpockets and bag snatchers.
If attending any related events :
- be aware of your surroundings at all times
- expect enhanced security, including security screening and restrictions on bags and backpacks
- don’t leave belongings unattended
- follow the instructions of local authorities
Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Fraud
Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:
- pay careful attention when your cards are handled by others
- use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
- avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
- cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
- check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements
Road safety
Road conditions are good on highways on the island of Trinidad, but less so on secondary roads, particularly in the mountainous northern region and on the island of Tobago. Rural roads are generally narrow, in disrepair and often congested.
Security presence has increased on either side of Trinidad’s Beetham Highway. If you get encounter difficulties along this route, do not stop until you see a patrol car or reach the nearest police station. Report traffic accidents to the nearest police station.
Public transportation
There is a large public transportation system of taxis, maxi-taxis (12- and 25-seat banded small buses) and larger buses.
All official public transportation vehicles have licence plates starting with H. Public buses are painted red, white and black.
Registered Taxis
The airport is served by the Airport Taxi Drivers’ Cooperative. These taxis are not shared. Make sure to establish the rate before driving away. Fares increase after 10 p.m. After dark, only use registered taxis. Taxi services from hotels are more expensive than public or route taxis.
Route taxis
Route taxis are shared cars that stop to pick up or drop off passengers. An official route taxi licence plate starts with H. Fares must be posted in the taxi, and the driver will display his taxi badge.
Maxi-Taxis (shared)
Maxi-taxis are painted white with two coloured bands that indicate the area they service. Fares are posted on the door or at the front of the maxi-taxi, and the driver will display his taxi badge.
Ferries
An inter-island ferry operates between Trinidad and Tobago. Cancellations may occur with little or no notice. Check the status of your travel with the Port Authority.
A water taxi operates between Port of Spain and San Fernando. Purchase tickets at water taxi terminals.
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
Entry/exit requirements
Entry/exit requirements
COVID-19 - Entry, exit and transit restrictions and requirements
In an attempt to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions and requirements for their territory.
Before travelling, verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any specific restrictions or requirements related to this situation. Consider even your transit points, as many destinations have implemented strict transit rules which could disrupt your travel.
These could include:
- entry bans, particularly for non-residents
- exit bans
- quarantines of 14 days or more upon arrival, some in designated facilities, at your own cost
- proof of a negative COVID-19 test result
- health screenings and certificates as well as proof of adequate travel health insurance
- travel authorization documents to be obtained before you travel
- border closures
- airport closures
- flight suspensions to/from certain destinations, and in some cases, all destinations
- suspensions or reductions of other international transportation options
Additional restrictions can be imposed suddenly. Airlines can also suspend or reduce flights without notice. Your travel plans may be severely disrupted, making it difficult for you to return home. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.
- Monitor the media for the latest information
- Contact your airline or tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt your travel plans
- Contact the nearest foreign diplomatic office for information on destination-specific restrictions
Foreign Representatives in Canada – Global Affairs Canada
COVID-19 - Flight suspensions and border closures
Authorities of Trinidad and Tobago have announced the suspension of all commercial flights in and out of the country and the closure of land and sea borders until further notice.
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the authorities of Trinidad and Tobago. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for the expected duration of your stay in Trinidad and Tobago.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Tourist visa: Not required (for less than 90 days)
Business visa: Not required (for less than 30 days)
Student visa: Required
Tourists receive a stamp indicating the period they are allowed to stay in the country, which is usually 90 days.
More information about visas – Trinidad and Tobago Immigration Division
Other requirements
You must show proof of a return or onward ticket, and that you will have enough funds for your stay.
Children and travel
Learn about travel with children.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Health
Health
- Pandemic COVID-19 all countries: avoid non-essential travel outside Canada - April 22, 2021
- Zika virus: Advice for travellers - December 24, 2019
- Global Measles Notice - July 23, 2019
Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Vaccines to Consider
You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health professional about which ones are right for you.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is a risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is recommended depending on your itinerary.
- There is currently a shortage of the yellow fever vaccine in Canada. It is important for travellers to contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of their trip to ensure that the vaccine is available.
- Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites.
About Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Food/Water
Food and Water-borne Diseases
Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.
In some areas in the Caribbean, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A, schistosomiasis and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in the Caribbean. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.
Travellers visiting regions with a risk typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Insects
Insects and Illness
In some areas in the Caribbean, certain insects carry and spread diseases like chikungunya, dengue fever, malaria, West Nile virus and Zika virus.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Chikungunya
There is currently a risk of chikungunya in this country. Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.
Dengue
- In this country, dengue fever is a risk to travellers year-round. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
- Dengue fever can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to dengue haemorrhagic fever, which can be fatal.
- The level of risk of dengue fever changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. After a decline in reported dengue cases worldwide in 2017 and 2018, global numbers have been steeply rising again.
- Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.
Zika Virus
Zika virus is a risk in this country.
Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.
Pregnant women and women planning a pregnancy should visit a health care professional before travelling to discuss the potential risks of travelling to this country. Pregnant women may choose to avoid or postpone travel to this country.
Travel recommendations:
- Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
- If you are pregnant, always use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact with anyone who has travelled to this country for the duration of your pregnancy.
- Women: Wait 2 months after travel to this country or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer) before trying for a pregnancy. If your male partner travelled with you, wait 3 months after travel or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer).
- Men: Wait 3 months after travel to this country or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer) before trying for a pregnancy.
For more travel recommendations, see the travel health notice: Zika virus: Advice for travellers
Malaria
Malaria
There is no risk of malaria in this country.
Animals
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Some infections found in some areas in the Caribbean, like rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
Person-to-Person
Person-to-Person Infections
Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.
HIV
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.
Medical services and facilities
COVID-19 - Testing
Contact local health authorities, or the nearest Government of Canada office abroad to find out where you can get a COVID-19 test.
There are five public health facilities that offer free medical services to the public. Private hospital care can be very expensive.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
Laws & culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Illegal drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. You should never carry a stranger’s baggage.
Laws
It is illegal for civilians to wear army or camouflage clothing.
You must register firearms with customs at the point of entry.
LGBTQ2 travellers
The laws prohibiting sexual acts between individuals of the same sex were ruled unconstitutional. Charges will no longer be laid under these laws. However, homosexuality is not widely accepted in Trinidad and Tobago society.
General safety information and advice for LGBTQ2 travellers abroad
Driving
Traffic drives on the left. Most vehicles are right-hand drive, but left-hand-drive vehicles are permitted and identified as such.
Visitors are allowed to drive for 90 days with a valid Canadian driver’s licence.
Persons found guilty of drinking and driving face heavy fines. Police use randomly placed roadblocks on major roads to check for drunk drivers and use breathalysers to test drivers on the spot.
Seat belts are mandatory for drivers and front-seat passengers. Failure to comply may lead to a fine.
All children below the age of 5 must sit in the back seat.
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Trinidad and Tobago.
If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.
General information for travellers with dual citizenship
Money
The currency is the Trinidad and Tobago dollar (TTD).
You can convert Canadian currency at all major banks or currency exchanges (Bureaux de Change) in Trinidad and Tobago.
ATMs are common throughout Trinidad and Tobago. Only use ATMs located inside a bank, supermarket, airport or large commercial building during business hours.
Leave copies of your bank and credit card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.
Natural disasters and climate
Natural disasters & climate
Hurricane season
Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.
These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.
If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:
- know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
- be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
- stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
- carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
- follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
Useful links
- Hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones and monsoons
- Large-scale emergencies abroad
- Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings - United States’ National Hurricane Center
Trinidad and Tobago regularly experience heavy rains during the hurricane season, leading to severe flooding and landslides.
Earthquakes
Trinidad and Tobago is located in an active seismic zone.
Trinidad and Tobago’s Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management and the University of the West Indies’ Seismic Research Centre provides information and advice in the event of an earthquake.
Alerts and more information about seismic activity – Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management
Assistance
Assistance
Local services
Emergency services
In case of emergency, dial:
- police: 999
- emergency health services (provided by National Emergency Ambulance): 811
- Tourism Policing Unit, located at Crown Point Police Station, 1-868-639-0020
- fire and alternate ambulance services: 990
- Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management: 511
- Tobago Emergency Management Agency: 211
Consular assistance
Port of Spain - High Commission of Canada
For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in Port of Spain and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.