Tips for a comfortable, happy and safe visit ...
Visiting from Abroad
From the Passport Department, Home Office, London
From the Passport Department, Home Office, London
IF YOU GET INTO DIFFICULTIES ...
When you go abroad, it is not just the sights and weather that can be very different. You are also subject to the laws of the country you are visiting, and it is in your own interests not to break them.
It is important to avoid any misunderstandings. For example, hobbies like photography, aircraft, train or ship spotting - and even bird watching - are liable to misinterpresentation, particularly in areas where there may be military equipment or installations. In some countries, this could lead to your being arrested for spying. If you are in doubt, ask advice.
Above all, remember that the systems or justice and treatment of offenders in other countries will often differ from home standards. Be wise - respect local customs at all times, and avoid doing anything that might give offence.
When you go abroad, it is not just the sights and weather that can be very different. You are also subject to the laws of the country you are visiting, and it is in your own interests not to break them.
It is important to avoid any misunderstandings. For example, hobbies like photography, aircraft, train or ship spotting - and even bird watching - are liable to misinterpresentation, particularly in areas where there may be military equipment or installations. In some countries, this could lead to your being arrested for spying. If you are in doubt, ask advice.
Above all, remember that the systems or justice and treatment of offenders in other countries will often differ from home standards. Be wise - respect local customs at all times, and avoid doing anything that might give offence.
NOTHING TO DECLARE!
Every year, tourists unwittingly break the law when they return home from Kenya with souvenirs made from protected species. Not only do such possessions present a direct threat to endangered wildlife, and if you are caught, you could be fined and your purchase confiscated.
There is never any excuse for not knowing the law, no matter which country you are from or visiting.
Every year, tourists unwittingly break the law when they return home from Kenya with souvenirs made from protected species. Not only do such possessions present a direct threat to endangered wildlife, and if you are caught, you could be fined and your purchase confiscated.
There is never any excuse for not knowing the law, no matter which country you are from or visiting.
THE WORLD WIDE FUND FOR NATURE WARNS THAT IT IS ILLEGAL TO BRING BACK INTO THE UK THE FOLLOWING:
TORTOISHELL
Sea turtles are banned from international Trade. Take particular note when visiting Kenya.
ELEPHANT IVORY
Be aware that carvings and elephant leather products are widely available, particularly in Africa and Asia.
CORAL AND SEASHELLS
Hard and black corals cannot be imported without permits. The same applies to some shells, such as giant clams. Taking shells from the beach or purchasing them from pedlars is also illegal.
PLANTS
Many plants are protected. Never, for instance, buy orchids in Kenya.
BIRDS AND FEATHERS
In the US, it is illegal to possess any part of a wild bird - even a single feather. Do not buy Love Birds in Kenya. Many countries ban the export of their native species.
THE WORLD WIDE FUND FOR NATURE WARNS THAT IT IS ILLEGAL TO BRING BACK INTO THE UK THE FOLLOWING:
TORTOISHELL
Sea turtles are banned from international Trade. Take particular note when visiting Kenya.
ELEPHANT IVORY
Be aware that carvings and elephant leather products are widely available, particularly in Africa and Asia.
CORAL AND SEASHELLS
Hard and black corals cannot be imported without permits. The same applies to some shells, such as giant clams. Taking shells from the beach or purchasing them from pedlars is also illegal.
PLANTS
Many plants are protected. Never, for instance, buy orchids in Kenya.
BIRDS AND FEATHERS
In the US, it is illegal to possess any part of a wild bird - even a single feather. Do not buy Love Birds in Kenya. Many countries ban the export of their native species.