Portvila Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Port Vila is the capital city of Vanuatu, a South Pacific island nation. Entry for most tourists is straightforward, with citizens from many countries eligible for visa-free entry or an electronic travel authorization. Upon arrival, travelers will pass through immigration at Bauerfield International Airport (VLI), where they must present a valid passport, completed arrival card, and proof of onward travel. It's important to ensure your passport has sufficient validity (typically six months beyond your intended stay) and that you comply with health and customs regulations. Travelers should be prepared for a simple but thorough immigration process. Officers may ask about the purpose and duration of your visit, accommodation details, and financial means. While the atmosphere is generally relaxed, entry is at the discretion of the immigration officer, so having all required documents organized is key. Ensure you declare any restricted or dutiable goods on your customs form. Before traveling, always check the latest entry requirements, as policies can change. While Vanuatu is welcoming to tourists, it's a remote island nation, so ensuring you have all necessary permissions and documentation before departure will prevent complications upon arrival.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Vanuatu offers visa-free entry to citizens of many countries, an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for others, and requires a traditional visa for a smaller number of nationalities. The allowed stay and conditions vary by category.

Visa-Free Entry

30 days (extendable up to 120 days in-country for a fee)

Citizens of listed countries do not need a visa for short tourist or business visits.

Includes

Australia New Zealand United Kingdom France Germany Italy Spain Japan South Korea Singapore Malaysia Fiji Solomon Islands

Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry. Visitors must hold proof of onward travel and sufficient funds for their stay.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA/eVisa)

30 days (single entry)

Citizens of eligible countries must obtain an ETA online before travel. This is the standard entry permit for most tourists.

Includes

United States Canada China India Indonesia Philippines Thailand Vietnam

How to Apply: Apply online via the official Vanuatu Immigration website. Processing is typically within 3-5 business days, but apply at least 7 days before travel.
Cost: Approximately 40-50 USD

The ETA is electronically linked to your passport. You must carry a printed copy of the approval. It is for tourism and business purposes only.

Visa Required

As determined by the visa issued

Citizens of countries not listed in the visa-free or ETA categories must apply for a visa in advance from a Vanuatu diplomatic mission.

How to Apply: Apply directly at a Vanuatu embassy or consulate. This process requires submitting an application form, passport photos, flight itinerary, and proof of accommodation and funds.

This category includes a limited number of nationalities. Processing times can be several weeks, so plan accordingly.

Arrival Process

The entry process at Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) is generally efficient. Have all your documents ready and be prepared to answer basic questions about your visit.

1. Arrival and Health Check

You may be asked to present proof of vaccination (if required at the time) and complete a health declaration form.

2. Immigration Queue

Proceed to the immigration counters. Separate lines may exist for residents and visitors.

3. Document Check

Present your passport (with visa/ETA if required), completed arrival card, and proof of onward travel (return/onward ticket).

4. Interview

An immigration officer may ask about your purpose of visit, duration of stay, accommodation, and funds.

5. Passport Stamp

If approved, you will receive an entry stamp in your passport noting your allowed stay (typically 30 days).

6. Baggage Claim and Customs

Collect your luggage and proceed through customs, declaring any items as necessary on your customs form.

Documents to Have Ready

Passport

Must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.

Visa or ETA Approval

Required for nationals of countries not eligible for visa-free entry. Must be obtained before travel.

Completed Arrival Card

Provided on the flight or at the airport. Includes personal, flight, and health information.

Proof of Onward Travel

A confirmed return or onward ticket to a destination outside Vanuatu.

Proof of Accommodation and Funds

Hotel bookings or invitation letter, and evidence of sufficient financial means (e.g., bank statement, cash).

Tips for Smooth Entry

Fill out your arrival card completely and legibly before reaching the immigration counter to save time.

Have digital and physical copies of all important documents: passport, ETA, flight tickets, and hotel reservations.

Answer immigration questions politely, clearly, and truthfully. Avoid making jokes about your visit.

Ensure your passport has several blank pages for the entry stamp.

If you are granted a 30-day stay but plan to stay longer, inquire about the extension process (available at the Immigration Department in Port Vila) well before your initial period expires.

Customs & Duty-Free

Vanuatu has standard customs regulations to protect its environment, agriculture, and society. Declare all items as required to avoid fines or confiscation.

Alcohol

2.25 liters of wine or 2 liters of spirits/liqueur

Traveler must be 18 years or older.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 250g of tobacco or 50 cigars

Traveler must be 18 years or older.

Currency

No limit on import/export of foreign currency

Amounts over 2,000,000 Vatu (approx. 16,500 USD) or equivalent in foreign currency must be declared.

Gifts/Goods

Up to 50,000 Vatu (approx. 415 USD) in value

Goods must be for personal use and not for commercial sale.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - strict laws with severe penalties
Pirated or counterfeit goods - illegal under Vanuatu law
Obscene or pornographic material - prohibited by law
Firearms, ammunition, and explosives without prior permit - strictly controlled
Dangerous weapons (e.g., switchblades, knuckledusters)

Restricted Items

Plants, seeds, fruits, vegetables, and soil - require import permit and phytosanitary certificate from Biosecurity Vanuatu
Animal products, live animals, and pets - require import permit and veterinary health certificate
Medications ( prescription drugs) - must be in original packaging, with a doctor's prescription, and declared; some medications may be controlled substances
Radio communication equipment - may require a license

Health Requirements

Vanuatu has specific health requirements to prevent the spread of diseases. Requirements can change, regarding outbreaks like COVID-19.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever vaccination certificate - required if arriving from a country with risk of Yellow Fever transmission

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, etc.)
Hepatitis A & B
Typhoid
Measles
Influenza
COVID-19

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended. Medical facilities in Port Vila are limited, and serious conditions often require medical evacuation to Australia or New Zealand, which is extremely expensive. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation.

Current Health Requirements: Check the latest requirements for COVID-19 vaccination or testing prior to travel, as these can be reinstated based on the global situation. Also, Vanuatu is in a malaria and dengue zone, so taking anti-malarial medication and using insect repellent is advised.

🛡️

Protect Your Trip with Travel Insurance

Complete coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and 24/7 emergency assistance. Many countries recommend or require travel insurance.

Get a Quote from World Nomads

Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Find your country's embassy or consulate. Many countries (Australia, New Zealand, France, China) have diplomatic missions in Port Vila.

Check your government's travel advisory website for the most accurate and up-to-date contact information and support.

Immigration Authority

Vanuatu Immigration and Passport Services

For official visa/ETA information and applications: https://immigration.gov.vu

Emergency

Emergency services number

Dial 112 for police, ambulance, and fire services.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children under 18 must have their own passport. If traveling with only one parent or without parents, it is highly recommended to carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent(s) or legal guardian(s), authorizing the travel. This is not always requested but can prevent delays at immigration.

Traveling with Pets

Importing pets (dogs and cats) is strictly regulated. Requirements include an import permit from Vanuatu's Department of Biosecurity, a valid veterinary health certificate, proof of current rabies vaccination and titre test, and treatment for internal and external parasites. Pets may be subject to quarantine upon arrival. The process must be started months in advance.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas (visa-free or ETA) are typically granted for 30 days. To extend your stay, you must apply at the Immigration Department in Port Vila (located in the Government Buildings) before your initial permit expires. Extensions are usually granted in increments (e.g., up to 120 days total) and require payment of a fee. You may need to show proof of sufficient funds and a valid reason for extension.

Know what to pack

Climate-specific clothing, travel documents, electronics, and gear — with shopping links for every item.

View Portvila Packing List →