Health information
The Falkland Islands Government Health Service manages all medical care, including dentistry. Overall health conditions in the Islands are considered very good, and no vaccinations are necessary for visitors. All primary medical facilities are located at the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital (KEMH) in Stanley, staffed by professionals trained to UK standards, including a complete surgical team.
In the smaller settlements and farms, medical chests are available to handle routine health needs and minor injuries. When required, patients can be transported to Stanley for further treatment.
Non-UK residents must pay for any medical services provided in the Islands. Comprehensive travel insurance—covering air evacuation—is essential for your stay.
Basic medicines such as pain relievers, indigestion treatments, and bandages are widely available in Stanley supermarkets. Travellers who need prescription medication should bring enough for their entire visit plus extra in case of delays, along with a copy of their prescription. The hospital pharmacy can help if a specific drug is not available locally, though items not in stock will need to be imported, which may take several days.
Banking and Currency in the Falklands
The Islands have only one bank, Standard Chartered Bank (SCB), located on Ross Road in Stanley. Opening hours are Monday to Friday, 9am–3pm. The bank provides currency exchange and can issue cash advances with Visa and Mastercard credit or debit cards (photo ID required and fees apply).
The Falkland Islands pound is equivalent in value to UK sterling, and both are used interchangeably. US dollars are commonly accepted, while euros are taken in certain places. Card usage is becoming more widespread, with most shops and restaurants accepting debit and credit cards. However, it is wise to confirm payment methods in advance and to carry cash when travelling outside Stanley. There is also an ATM at Stanley Services fuel station on Bypass Road.
Communications
All telecommunications across the Islands are provided by Sure.
If you have an international contract, you may be able to connect to the local mobile network with your existing SIM card, depending on your provider’s roaming agreement (listed on Sure’s website). Ensure roaming is activated before arrival. A prepaid SIM option is available and can be more economical for longer visits. An unlocked phone is required. Coverage is generally strong in Stanley and surrounding areas but not comprehensive throughout the Islands.
Public phone boxes are available in Stanley and operate with prepaid cards sold at selected shops.
Wi-Fi hotspots are found in various places. Access requires a prepaid Wi-Fi card, usually available at the hotspot location. Since coverage is not universal, being offline can be part of the experience. If staying connected is important, check Sure’s website for the latest availability updates.
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Entry and Exit Rules in the Falklands
Visitors must hold a passport valid for the duration of their stay.
Those travelling by land must also have travel insurance (including medical evacuation), a return ticket, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds to cover their visit. A few nationalities require a visa. A departure tax applies when leaving via the international airport. This tax can be paid in cash (FK£, GBP, USD, or EUR) or by Visa/Mastercard.
For further details, contact the Falkland Islands Customs and Immigration Department.
Language of the Falklands Islands (Islas Malvinas)
English is the official language of the Falklands.
Although English is dominant, people of many national backgrounds live here, so you may hear other languages spoken by smaller communities. In emergencies, efforts will be made to locate an appropriate translator.
Electricity in the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)
Power supply is 240 volts, 50 Hz, using the standard UK three-pin plug system.
