Portvila Entry Requirements

Children must have their own passport (child passport or included in parent's passport where still accepted). Minors (under 18) traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent(s) or legal guardian, authorizing the child to travel. This letter should include contact details, travel dates, and be signed and notarized. If a child is traveling with only one parent, carry the child's birth certificate and consent letter from the other parent. In cases of sole custody, carry legal documentation. These documents may be requested by airlines or immigration officials. Children are subject to the same visa and entry requirements as adults.

Importing pets into Vanuatu is complex and requires significant advance planning (at least 6 months). An import permit must be obtained from the Vanuatu Department of Livestock before arrival. Pets must come from approved rabies-free countries or undergo lengthy quarantine. Requirements include: valid rabies vaccination (if from non-rabies-free country), microchip identification, health certificate from licensed veterinarian issued within 7 days of travel, blood tests for various diseases, and treatment for parasites. Pets must arrive as manifested cargo, not as passenger baggage. Quarantine may be required upon arrival. Contact the Department of Livestock (livestock@vanuatu.gov.vu) at least 6 months before intended travel for specific requirements and permits. Many travelers find it more practical to arrange pet care at home rather than bringing pets to Vanuatu.

The initial 30-day entry permit can be extended for up to 4 months total (120 days) for tourism purposes. To extend, visit the Vanuatu Immigration Department office in Port Vila before your current permit expires. Bring your passport, completed extension application form, proof of sufficient funds, accommodation details, and return ticket (may need to be changed to reflect extended stay). Extension fees apply (approximately VUV 5,000-10,000 depending on length). Processing usually takes 1-3 business days. For stays longer than 4 months, you may need to apply for a temporary residence permit or other visa category. Working on a tourist permit is strictly prohibited. If planning to work, volunteer, or conduct business, you must obtain the appropriate visa or permit before engaging in these activities. Overstaying your permit results in fines (approximately VUV 10,000 per month overstayed) and possible deportation or entry ban.

Business visitors attending meetings, conferences, or conducting short-term business activities can usually enter on the standard tourist entry permit, provided no paid work is performed in Vanuatu. Carry documentation supporting your business purpose: invitation letter from Vanuatu company/organization, conference registration, business cards, and letter from your employer. If you will be working, receiving payment from Vanuatu sources, or staying longer than 30 days for business, you must obtain a business visa or work permit before arrival. Contact the Vanuatu Immigration Department or Foreign Investment Promotion Authority (VFIPA) for requirements. Business permits typically require sponsorship from a Vanuatu entity.

Passengers transiting through Port Vila without leaving the airport typically do not need a visa if their onward flight departs within 24 hours and they hold confirmed tickets and necessary documents for their final destination. However, if you wish to leave the airport during transit, you must meet standard entry requirements including visa (if applicable) and entry permit. Bauerfield International Airport has limited transit facilities, so consider whether you need to enter Vanuatu properly if you have a long layover. Always confirm transit requirements with your airline before travel.

Cruise ship passengers on organized shore excursions may be granted temporary shore passes for the duration of the ship's port call (usually 24-48 hours) without going through full immigration procedures. The cruise line typically handles documentation collectively. However, passengers must still carry valid passports and meet visa requirements if applicable. If leaving the organized excursion or staying in Vanuatu after the ship departs, you must go through regular immigration procedures and obtain a proper entry permit. Shore pass conditions usually restrict you to the port area and immediate surroundings unless on an approved tour.

Professional journalists, photographers, and film crews planning to work in Vanuatu should apply for a media visa or work permit before arrival. Contact the Vanuatu Government Information Office and Immigration Department in advance. You may need to provide: letter from your media organization, detailed itinerary of your activities, equipment list, and purpose of coverage. Filming permits may be required for commercial productions. Using tourist entry permits while conducting professional media work is prohibited and can result in deportation and equipment confiscation. Amateur photography and personal video recording for non-commercial purposes is generally permitted under tourist entry.