Overseas Emergencies

Natural disasters, civil unrest, terrorist attacks and other crises abroad can affect Gibraltar residents travelling or living overseas.

Who is Most at Risk?

Gibraltar residents travelling abroad, expats, students studying overseas, and those with family or business interests in foreign countries are all potentially affected. People travelling to regions with political instability, natural disaster risk or conflict are at greatest risk.

Before

  • Register your travel plans with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) — Gibraltar residents travel on British passports and can access British consular support.
  • Check FCDO travel advice for your destination before you travel: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
  • Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical cover and emergency repatriation.
  • Share your itinerary with a trusted contact at home — accommodation details, flight numbers, and contact numbers.
  • Save key emergency contacts in your phone before you travel: local emergency services, your travel insurer, and the nearest British Embassy or Consulate.
  • Keep physical copies of important documents — passport, insurance, bookings — stored separately from the originals.
  • Research local emergency procedures, healthcare facilities, and potential risks at your destination.

During

  • Follow instructions from local authorities and emergency services immediately.
  • Contact the nearest British Embassy, High Commission or Consulate for consular assistance — they can help British nationals (including Gibraltarians) in difficulty.
  • Contact your travel insurer’s emergency line as soon as possible.
  • Stay in contact with family or friends at home and let them know you are safe.
  • Follow FCDO advice updates — these may include evacuation guidance or recommended routes out.
  • If caught in civil unrest, stay indoors and away from crowds, protests or demonstrations.
  • Do not attempt to film or photograph incidents — this can attract unwanted attention.

After

  • Once home, report any issues encountered to your travel insurer and the FCDO.
  • Seek medical attention if you were injured or exposed to illness abroad.
  • If you were affected by trauma or a distressing incident, consider speaking to a counsellor or your GP.
  • Check whether your documents, belongings or financial accounts need to be replaced or secured following the incident.