Tuvalu
Safety and security
Terrorism
There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
Terrorism in Tuvalu
Although there is no recent history of terrorism in Tuvalu, attacks cannot be ruled out.
Laws and cultural differences
Illegal drugs and prison sentences
It is illegal to import, export, cultivate or distribute drugs. Penalties include fines and imprisonment.
LGBT+ travellers
Homosexuality is illegal in Tuvalu. If you’re found guilty of consensual sex between adult males, you could face up to 14 years in prison.
Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
Internet and phone services
There is one local mobile network in Tuvalu, other international networks will not work. You can buy local SIM cards in Funafuti.
Money
There are no ATMs in Tuvalu, and credit or debit card payments are not accepted. Bring enough Australian dollars in cash with you for the duration of your trip.
Outdoor activities and adventure tourism
Swimming safety
Take care when swimming, diving or snorkelling in the sea as currents can be extremely strong. Coral reefs can easily cause cuts and scrapes. If you decide to scuba dive, make sure you use a reputable, fully licensed company with up-to-date equipment and necessary safety features. Deaths and serious accidents have occurred because basic safety measures were not in place. There are limited medical facilities in Tuvalu.
Swimming in Funafuti lagoon is not recommended as it is highly polluted.
See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society.
Transport risks
Sea travel
Before travelling in any vessel, check:
- you’re covered by insurance
- it is not overloaded
- there are safety precautions in place
- safety equipment is accessible and in working order
Road travel
If you are planning to drive in Tuvalu, see information on driving abroad.
You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Tuvalu for up to 2 weeks. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well.
Extreme weather and natural disasters
Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.
Tropical cyclones
The tropical cyclone season normally runs from November to May, but cyclones can happen throughout the year. During cyclone season there is a greater risk of strong winds and heavy rains, flooding, landslides and road closures.
Monitor local and international weather updates from the Tuvalu Meteorological Service, in local newspapers and on Tuvalu Media Department Radio on 621 AM.
Earthquakes and tsunamis
The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake and resulting tsunamis.