Trinidad and Tobago

The Land of Carnival
and Calypso

Flag of Trinidad and Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago, a twin-island nation in the Caribbean, is known for its rich cultural diversity, lively festivals, and beautiful beaches. Trinidad, the larger island, is famous for its vibrant Carnival, steelpan music, and bustling capital, Port of Spain. Tobago, by contrast, offers a more relaxed atmosphere, with stunning beaches, coral reefs, and lush rainforests.

The islands’ culture blends African, Indian, European, and indigenous influences, evident in their music, dance, and food. Trinidadian and Tobagonian cuisine is flavorful and varied, featuring dishes like doubles and pelau. Trinidad and Tobago offer a dynamic mix of cultural vibrancy and natural beauty.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-CARICOM citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Trinidad and Tobago.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Trinidad and Tobago (standard requirement).

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from the US, Canada, EU, UK, and most Commonwealth nations can enter Trinidad and Tobago with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days without a visa.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations like China, India, or Nigeria must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Trinidad and Tobago.

Special Entry Provisions

  • No special provisions exist for entry with Schengen, US, or UK visas—visa requirements are based solely on nationality.
  • Citizens of CARICOM (Caribbean Community) member states may enter with relaxed requirements—check with authorities.

ID Card Entry

  • No countries are permitted to enter Trinidad and Tobago using only a national ID card; a passport is mandatory for all foreign nationals unless specified under CARICOM agreements (e.g., some CARICOM citizens may use ID cards—confirm locally).

Visa Types

  • Tourist Entry: Allows stays up to 90 days for visa-exempt countries; no separate visa application needed (entry stamp issued on arrival).
  • Extended Stay Visa: For stays longer than 90 days (e.g., work, study); valid for up to one year, renewable, and allows application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Purpose of visit: Work, study, or long-term stays require prior visa approval.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements (e.g., vaccination or testing may apply).
Toll

Driving in Trinidad and Tobago

Current Toll Roads
As of 2025, Trinidad and Tobago has no toll roads. Roads are publicly maintained, with no toll systems in place across Trinidad or Tobago.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Not applicable—no toll roads exist. For general road updates, visit the Ministry of Works and Transport: https://www.mowt.gov.tt/.
  • Payment Methods: Not applicable.

Driving in Trinidad and Tobago

  • Drive on the left side of the road (British-style).
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h
    • Rural roads: 80 km/h
    • Highways: 100 km/h
  • Road conditions vary; exercise caution on rural roads, especially during the rainy season (June-December).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license, but a temporary local permit (TTD 300/USD 45) is required for tourists—obtainable at licensing offices.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Trinidad and Tobago does not use a vignette or toll system for road use.
  • Road Safety: Heavy traffic in Port of Spain and potholes in rural areas require vigilance, especially at night.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is reliable in urban areas but spotty in rural Tobago—keep an updated physical map.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 999 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Trinidad and Tobago Currency

The official currency of Trinidad and Tobago is the Trinidad and Tobago Dollar (TTD).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 TTD
  • Coins: 5, 10, 25, 50 cents; 1 TTD
  • Symbol: $ (often with “TTD” to distinguish from USD)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, airports, and hotels.
  • ATMs widely available in urban areas (e.g., Port of Spain) for direct TTD withdrawals.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas and small vendors.
  • Credit/debit cards accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments (USD sometimes accepted in tourist zones).

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Carry some cash (TTD) for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago website: https://www.central-bank.org.tt/
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Trinidad and Tobago

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travelers in Trinidad and Tobago, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon and may lead to fines.
    • Smoking banned in indoor public spaces and some outdoor areas (e.g., beaches).
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing race, politics, or Carnival commercialization unless invited.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are legal; same-sex marriage is not recognized. Public displays of affection are generally tolerated but may attract attention in rural areas.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites or government buildings. Always ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over $10,000 USD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products.
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access under national law; private properties cannot block shoreline entirely.

Key Resources

Trinidad and Tobago Travel Safety

Trinidad and Tobago is generally welcoming but requires awareness of crime, health, and road safety. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Trinidad and Tobago.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) occurs in tourist areas like Port of Spain or during Carnival. Violent crime against tourists is rare but possible—avoid high-risk areas (e.g., Laventille).
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Generally safe in tourist zones; locals are hospitable. Avoid isolated areas at night.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to aggressive drivers and poor rural road conditions.
    • Avoid night driving outside major cities.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Avoid tap water in rural areas; drink bottled water.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travelers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, COVID-19.
    • Yellow Fever: Required if arriving from a risk country; recommended for forested areas.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use repellent for dengue or Zika (moderate risk in rainy season).
  • Altitude Sickness: No risk; highest point (El Cerro del Aripo) is 940 meters.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Facilities like Port of Spain General Hospital offer basic care. Private clinics (e.g., St. Clair Medical Centre) provide higher standards; rural Tobago lacks advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities—carry essential medications.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 999 (police, fire); 811 (ambulance).
  • Police: 999 | Ambulance: 811 | Fire: 990.
  • Tourist Assistance: +1 868 635-1285 (Tourism Hotline).

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a sturdy vehicle for rural Tobago—check insurance coverage.
  • Hiking: Use guides for trails (e.g., Main Ridge Forest Reserve).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid political or racial discussions.
  • Air Quality: Generally good; monitor via World Air Quality Index in Port of Spain.

Key Links

Flying to Trinidad and Tobago

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