Saint Kitts and Nevis

St. Kitts and Nevis is a developing Eastern Caribbean nation consisting of two islands. Tourist facilities are widely available. Read the Department of State Fact Sheet on St. Kitts and Nevis for additional information.

Transportation

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. Generally, traffic in St. Kitts and Nevis moves on the left-hand side of the road. Roads are reasonably well paved but narrow and sometimes poorly marked. Drivers often stop on the side of or in the middle of the road to visit with other drivers, blocking traffic lanes. Honking one's horn is a common form of greeting, not a warning. 

Travelers are required to obtain a visitor's driver’s license, which may be obtained from the Traffic Department or the Fire Station for a small fee on presentation of a valid home or international license. Public transportation consists of mini-buses and taxis. Established, reasonable fares are available from airport dispatchers and local hotels. Complaints regarding taxi or minibus services may be lodged with the Department of Tourism or with your hotel.

More detailed information on roads and traffic safety can be obtained from the Ministry of National Security or Ministry of Tourism and International Transport located in Port Zante, Bay Road, Basseterre, St. Kitts, telephone (869) 465-4040. For specific information concerning St. Kitts and Nevis driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax and mandatory insurance, contact the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis or the St. Kitts and Nevis Tourism Board.

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis’ Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of St. Kitts and Nevis’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.

Safety and Security

To stay connected:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program so we can keep you up to date with important safety and security announcements.
• Follow the Bureau of Consular Affairs on Twitter and Facebook.
• Bookmark the Bureau of Consular Affairs website, which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution.
• Follow the U.S. Embassy to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean on Twitter and visit the Embassy’s website.
• In the event of an emergency, contact us at 1-888-407-4747 toll-free within the United States and Canada, or via a regular toll line, 1-202-501-4444, from other countries.
• Take some time before traveling to consider your personal security and checking for useful tips for traveling safely abroad.

CRIME: Violent crime—including murder, petty street crime, automobile break-ins and burglary—continues to occur. Visitors and residents must exercise common-sense precautions such as traveling in groups, avoiding walking alone at night or carrying large amounts of cash, other valuables or travel documents. Hotel safety deposit facilities should be used to safeguard valuables and travel documents. Visitors should also avoid leaving bags, valuables and other belongings in rental vehicles or on beaches. Some American universities in St. Kitts and Nevis have instituted strict curfew hours for students, as many have been victims of crime in recent years in Basseterre.

VICTIMS OF CRIME:

If you or someone you know becomes the victim of a crime abroad, you should contact the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. We can:

• Replace a stolen passport.
• Help you find appropriate medical care if you are the victim of violent crimes such as assault or rape.
• Put you in contact with the appropriate police authorities, and if you want us to, contact family members or friends.
• Help you understand the local criminal justice process and direct you to local attorneys, although it is important to remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

The local equivalent to the “911” emergency line in St. Kitts and Nevis is: 911 for police and ambulance and 333 for fire services.

Please see our information for victims of crime, including possible victim compensation programs in the United States.