Travel Restrictions To St. Lucia: What You Need To Know

St Lucia is a small island country in the Caribbean, known for its stunning scenery, including the Pitons Mountain range, and its status as the only country with a drive-in volcano. The country boasts pristine beaches, exotic tours, local cuisine, and a rich history. It was the first country to be named after a woman. Travellers to St Lucia should be aware of the various entry requirements, which may include presenting a valid passport, proof of vaccination, and a negative COVID-19 PCR test.

Travel restrictions and requirements

As of November 2021, travel to St Lucia from Spain was allowed with restrictions for vaccinated travellers. A negative COVID-19 PCR test result, taken within five days of arrival, was required for entry to St Lucia. This did not apply to travellers under the age of five. All travellers were required to submit a travel registration form and a health screening form before travelling, and to show the latter on arrival.

Vaccinated travellers were also required to provide proof of vaccination, with the final dose having been administered at least two weeks before travel. The following vaccines were accepted: AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson Janssen, Sinopharm, Sputnik V, Abdala, Covaxin and Oxford-AstraZeneca. Any combination of these vaccines was also accepted. Travellers with an EU vaccine passport could use it as proof of vaccination.

On arrival, travellers may be required to submit to a random PCR test. Temperature screening is mandatory for all travellers, and masks must be worn in-flight, in the airport, and in all public places in St Lucia.

When travelling to St Lucia by air, a valid passport book is required for all passengers, regardless of age. The passport must be valid throughout your stay in the country, and it should have adequate blank pages for entry and exit stamps. Airlines and immigration authorities will not accept damaged or altered passports, though normal wear and tear is acceptable.

When travelling by sea, the passport requirement depends on the type of cruise:

• Closed-loop cruises: These cruises start and end at US ports, so a valid passport book is not required. Instead, travellers can use other WHTI-compliant documents, such as passport cards and trusted traveller cards. Minors can use birth/citizenship/naturalisation certificates or passport cards.
• Standard cruises: These cruises start or end at non-US ports, so a valid passport book is required.

US citizens do not need a visa to travel to St Lucia as tourists, but their entry depends on their ability to prove their travel purpose at immigration. They should present the following documents upon arrival:

• A valid passport book
• A return or onward ticket
• Evidence of accommodation
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay
• Any other documents necessary to justify their travel purpose

Immigration authorities will review these documents and decide on the length of stay.

Passport validity

If you are a British citizen travelling to St Lucia, your passport must have an 'expiry date' after the day you plan to leave. It is recommended that you check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet the requirements. You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

U.S. citizens must have a U.S. passport that is valid for the duration of their stay in St Lucia. Generally, all U.S. citizens are required to present a valid U.S. passport when travelling to St Lucia, as well as proof of anticipated departure from the country. This includes travellers arriving by aeroplane and by private sea-going vessel. Those travelling to St Lucia on a cruise may use another Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)-compliant document. However, it is strongly recommended that visitors obtain a passport before travel in case of an unforeseen emergency that requires a cruise passenger to disembark and return by air.

St Lucia passport holders can travel visa-free to 154 countries and territories. To travel visa-free, you will need a valid passport, often with at least six months until expiry.

Safety precautions

St Lucia is known for its tranquil and exquisite scenery, but there are a few safety precautions to be aware of before travelling there. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind when planning your trip to St Lucia:

General Safety

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in crowded areas which are prime spots for petty theft like pickpocketing and bag snatching.
• Avoid displaying jewellery or other valuable items that may attract unwanted attention.
• Do not leave your drinks unattended, especially at crowded events.
• Avoid isolated areas, including beaches, after dark.
• Stay in accommodations with secure facilities and, if staying on a yacht, ensure its security.
• Only use licensed and registered taxis with blue number plates.
• Do not get into a car with a stranger.
• Avoid carrying large sums of cash, jewellery, or other valuables.
• Keep your valuables, passport, and travel documents secure and, if possible, use a hotel safe or safety deposit box.
• Monitor local media for information on demonstrations and other large gatherings, and avoid these areas.

Road Safety

• Roads can be dangerous due to unexpected sharp turns, bends, and potholes.
• Drivers frequently make sudden stops without warning and speeding is common.
• Keep an eye out for motorcyclists who may weave between cars.
• Drivers do not always use indicators, and pedestrians often walk on the roads.
• Some roads are unlit at night, and road signs and hazards may not be easily visible.
• Always carry a cell phone and charger, and keep a list of emergency numbers.

Water Safety

• Coastal waters can be dangerous due to strong currents and riptides.
• Beaches are often unsupervised and lack warning flags to indicate unsafe conditions.
• Consult locals and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas.
• Do not dive in unfamiliar waters as hidden rocks or shallow water can cause serious injury or death.

Adventure Activities

• Outdoor activities such as zip-lining, hiking, and mountain biking can be dangerous if unprepared.
• Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly.
• Never venture out alone; always stay with your expedition companions.
• Obtain detailed information about your planned activities and the environment you'll be in.
• Purchase travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation coverage.
• Stay informed about weather conditions and other potential hazards.
• Inform a family member or friend of your itinerary.

Health and Medical

• Good healthcare is limited in St Lucia, with underequipped medical facilities and a lack of trained professionals.
• Medical services are expensive and often require immediate cash payments.
• Ensure you have adequate travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospital stays.
• Bring sufficient quantities of any prescription medication you need, and keep them in their original containers.

By following these safety precautions, you can help ensure that your trip to St Lucia is enjoyable and memorable.

LGBTQIA+ acceptance

St Lucia has a conservative attitude towards the LGBTQIA+ community. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples are rare, and certain homosexual acts are illegal, although the law is not enforced. However, the island has been taking steps towards fostering inclusivity and there are tentative signs of growing societal acceptance.

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal for males in St Lucia, according to the Criminal Code 2004, which criminalises such acts under laws prohibiting 'buggery' and 'gross indecency', with penalties of up to ten years' imprisonment. Despite this, multiple sources state that these laws are not enforced. Decriminalisation efforts are underway, with the government discussing plans to launch a public awareness campaign.

In 2022, St Lucia became one of the few countries in the Caribbean to provide legal protection to same-sex couples who are victims of domestic violence when its Parliament passed the historic Domestic Violence Act. The Act extends all its protections to LGBTQ people and is the only law in the region that expressly forbids discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Article 131 of the Labour Code, enacted in 2006, also bans "unfair dismissal" based on sexual orientation. Since 2013, police officers have been required to take LGBTQIA+ sensitivity training.

Public opinion polls in St Lucia have found that homophobic beliefs persist, although there is a lack of public opinion data. The country was ranked #25 of 29 regions in North and South America for support for same-sex marriage in 2017.

Despite the legal framework, members of St Lucia's LGBTQIA+ community have reported feeling safer and more accepted in recent years. They are increasingly going to public spaces such as street parties and carnivals, where they feel able to express themselves.

The first gay pride parade was held in St Lucia in August 2019, with activities aimed at educating and sensitising the general public, as well as nurturing the dignity of LGBTQIA+ people. The Roman Catholic Archbishop of Castries, Robert Rivas, said his church was not opposed to the pride event. However, the Pentecostal Assemblies of the West Indies (PAWI) voiced its objection.

While there have been some positive developments, St Lucia's LGBTQIA+ community still faces significant challenges and legal barriers. Overall, while there are signs of growing acceptance, St Lucia still has a way to go to achieve full acceptance and equality for its LGBTQIA+ community.

Resort recommendations

St Lucia is known for its lush natural scenery, from its beaches to its waterfalls and volcanoes. The island's resorts offer a range of experiences, from luxurious beachfront escapes to tucked-away wellness retreats. Here are some of the best resorts in St Lucia to consider:

Jade Mountain

Jade Mountain is an adults-only resort known for its open-concept sanctuaries with stunning views of St Lucia's landmark lava domes, the Pitons. The resort features vanishing-edge pools, high ceilings, and tropical hardwood finishes. Each sanctuary is windowless and lacks a fourth wall, creating a unique connection to the surrounding nature. Jade Mountain offers a range of amenities, including a Chocolate Laboratory, a spa, and a residents-only club.

Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort

This lavish oasis is a favourite among honeymooners and A-list celebrities. Sugar Beach offers luxurious accommodations, including rooms, villas, and beachfront bungalows, each with a private plunge pool. The resort's Rainforest Spa, set among the treetops, is a highlight, utilising ingredients from nearby cocoa plantations and volcanic springs.

Cap Maison

Cap Maison is a glamorous, family-owned boutique resort with 49 guest rooms, villas, and suites. Perched on a hilltop, the resort offers arresting views of the lush Pigeon Island National Park. Cap Maison is known for its culinary offerings, with three distinct dining venues and the option of private dinners within the resort's flora-filled grounds.

Windjammer Landing Resort and Residences

This 65-acre resort is ideal for families, offering a range of amenities and activities for guests of all ages. Windjammer Landing features a white-sand beach with a floating trampoline and water slide, as well as a robust calendar of events such as silent discos and beach Olympics. The resort also boasts a complimentary VIP Kids program, with activities like movie nights and a special teddy bear turndown service.

Sandals Grande St. Lucian

Sandals Grande St. Lucian is a romantic resort offering candlelight dining, a spa, and a fitness centre. The resort also provides opportunities for cultural heritage tours, visits to the drive-in volcano, and cruises to snorkel near the Pitons. With 12 gourmet restaurants and a range of room categories, Sandals Grande St. Lucian has something for every couple.

BodyHoliday

BodyHoliday is an all-inclusive wellness resort that offers a daily spa treatment as part of its sumptuous stay. The resort features a Wellness Centre with a thalassotherapy pool, an infrared sauna, and an Ayurvedic Temple. BodyHoliday also offers a variety of complimentary activities, including tai chi, yoga, and guided meditations, as well as thoughtfully curated culinary options to promote wellness.

Coconut Bay Beach Resort and Spa

Coconut Bay is a premium all-inclusive resort with five pools, seven bars, and almost a dozen restaurants. The resort offers a range of activities, including pickleball, a water park, and Caribbean rum tastings. Coconut Bay is ideal for families, with a supervised kids' club and a water park designed for both children and adults.

Frequently asked questions