Exercise increased caution in the Turks and Caicos Islands due to crime.
Exercise increased cautionin the Turks and Caicos Islands due to crime.
Crime
Most crime occurs in Providenciales. Police may have limited resources to investigate crimes.
- There have been reports of sexual assaults in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
- Petty crime is common, especially in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings.
- Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing.
- Tourists should beware of overcharging and scams in tourist areas. You may encounter aggressive vendors. Some will offer “free” gifts that lead to money demands. Most sites have tourist police available to help in uncomfortable situations.
- U.S. Embassy Nassau in The Bahamas helps U.S. citizens who are victims of crime in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Ammunition arrests
- U.S. citizens must follow local laws abroad. If you break laws in another country – even by mistake – you could be deported, fined, or imprisoned.
It is illegal to have firearms and ammunition in the Turks and Caicos Islands. This includes single bullets and cartridges brought by mistake in carry-on bags or luggage. A firearm license or permit obtained in the United States or any other country is not valid in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
- Police strictly enforce these laws, especially at the airport when travelers are leaving the country.
- Travelers may face arrest, jail time, and heavy fines.
- Some U.S. citizens have been detained and unable to depart for several weeks or more after being found with bullets in their luggage.
- Offenders may face 12 years or more in prison.
- We cannot get U.S. citizens out of detention.
Hurricanes
The Turks and Caicos Islands regularly experiences hurricanes. Review our information on Weather and Natural Disasters in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
- Review our Travel Guidance for the Turks and Caicos Islands to learn how to prepare for a safe trip