HIV travel restrictions: New guide launched to help HIV-positive travellers and tourists
The International LGBTQ Travel Association has launched a travel guide for HIV-positive travellers
Words: Markus Bidaux; Image: Pexels
On Worlds Aids Day 1 December 2021, the IGLTA (International LGBTQ Travel Association) published their free travel guide for HIV-positive globetrotters.
‘LGBTQ+ Travel and HIV: Navigating the World Safely’ offers advice on ongoing restrictions in some countries around the world, as well as advice for HIV-positive travellers.
“Whilst some countries refuse work or residency visas for people with HIV, most do not restrict those with HIV from travelling for holidays, short visits, or those in transit,” says Dr Tristan Barber, Consultant in HIV Medicine at London’s Royal Free Hospital, and Chair of the Education and Scientific Subcommittee of the British HIV Association (BHIVA), in the guide.
Dr Tristan Barber
Although HIV entry restrictions should not be a concern for most, there are still nearly 20 countries that are known to deport travellers if officials discover their positive HIV status.
“Promoting safe experiences for queer travellers is built into IGLTA’s DNA, and we’re always thinking about ways to expand our free resources,” says John Tanzella, IGLTA President/CEO.
“We had not yet touched upon the intersection of LGBTQ+ and HIV+ travel and with the support of our Foundation and Gilead were able to create this guide, which we now also plan to translate into Spanish.”
IGLTA President John Tanzella
In addition to the HIV travel guide, IGLTA has guides on LGBTQ+ and trans safety guides, a marriage equality guide, and guides to over 30 countries all available for free.
National HIV Testing Week gets underway from 7 February, so be sure that you know your own status.