United States issues new travel advisory for well-liked island country

The U.S. State Department has revised its travel alert for Turks and Caicos, emphasizing that individuals should refrain from carrying firearms or ammunition to the Caribbean islands.

Last year, there were instances where at least five Americans were apprehended for possessing ammunition, leading to criminal charges while touring the luxurious vacation spot situated approximately 600 miles southeast of Miami.

Records on official government websites indicate that the U.S. State Department has maintained a Level 2 travel advisory for Turks & Caicos for close to three years owing to the elevated crime rates in the region.

Level 2 means travelers should “Exercise Increased Caution.” A Level 3 alert would advise reconsidering travel and Level 4, the highest option, is a ‘Do not travel’ warning. 

The Turks & Caicos advisory was updated Tuesday to further stress the archipelago’s laws on guns and ammunition.  

The British territory adopted stricter gun laws in 2022 following a jump in gun violence and weapons trafficking. 

“Firearms and ammunition, including single bullets brought by mistake in carry-on bags or luggage, are illegal. Police strictly enforce these laws, even at the airport when travelers are leaving. Travelers face arrest, jail time, and heavy fines,” the advisory warns. “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 can face 12 years or more in prison. Though the law allows for some exceptions and discretion, the Department of State cannot guarantee your release.”

Turks and Caicos is sometimes a stop for cruise lines. Carnival Sunrise, Carnival Magic, Carnival Vista, Carnival Freedom and Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas all make stops in the country, according to the cruise lines.

The State Department encourages U.S. citizens traveling to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for emergency updates and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.. Other safety tips:

• Do not bring weapons or ammunition to the Turks and Caicos Islands. 
• Avoid walking alone and at night.
• Do not answer your door at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

KHOU 11’s Jaime E. Galvan and Anne James contributed to this report. The Associated Press contributed to this report.