Vanuatu is a remote corner of our beautiful planet that surprises with its nature and mystery. Learn more about the entry and security rules for foreign tourists, as well as useful tips for travelers

The Vanuatu archipelago is recognized as the best vacation spot in the South Pacific. This is a country that every tourist must visit for many reasons: incredible beaches, stunning landscapes, clear ocean waters, active volcanoes, fresh seafood, the world's only underwater post office, rich history and culture of the islands, as well as friendly people local residents. Most of the islands still remain unexplored. In addition, Vanuatu has been named the happiest country in the world for several years in a row.

In translation, Vanuatu means "our land forever". The country is located on 13 large islands and a number of smaller islets that stretch for 650 kilometers.

Vanuatu is a great destination for international travelers, as citizens of more than 120 countries around the world are allowed visa-free entry to the country.

Travel rules and useful information about Vanuatu in our material.

List of documents and rules for entering Vanuatu

Visa-free regime

Citizens of 33 countries of the world have the right to enter Vanuatu without a visa and stay on the territory of the state for up to 90 days during any 180-day period - these are all countries of the European Union (except Ireland), Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Russia, Switzerland and United Arab Emirates.

Holders of passports from 92 countries of the world have the right to stay in Vanuatu without a visa for up to 30 days: China, Chile, Canada, USA, Australia, Turkey, Great Britain, Ukraine, Japan, Israel, India, etc. (see the link for a full list of countries).

List of documents for visa-free entry to Vanuatu:

- a ticket for an onward or return flight;

- funds for staying in Vanuatu;

- a passport valid for six months after the planned date of arrival;

- Medical Insurance.

Visa

Citizens of countries with which Vanuatu does not have a visa-free regime before traveling to the country must obtain a Visitor Visa - this is a short-term visa issued to foreigners planning a tourist trip to Vanuatu, a short-term business trip, visiting relatives, etc.

The Government of Vanuatu accepts visa applications from 79 different countries. On the basis of a visa, you can stay in Vanuatu for up to 30 days.

List of documents for obtaining a tourist visa in Vanuatu:

- Application form.

- Two photos.

- Passport and a copy of the main page. The passport is valid for at least 6 months.

- A copy of your national identity card and residence permit/visa (if your country of residence and citizenship are different).

- Travel route.

- Confirmation of financial capabilities.

- Confirmation of intention to leave Vanuatu.

The average processing time for a Vanuatu tourist visa is 3-15 working days, it depends on the country in which you are applying for a visa.

The cost of a Vanuatu tourist visa is approximately US$35. The fee may vary depending on your nationality or country of submission.

Documents for issuing a tourist visa are accepted by visa centers, embassies or consulates of Vanuatu in the applicant's country of residence.

Documents for traveling with children:

Copy and English translation of birth certificate/adoption certificate/guardianship order if parents are divorced/death certificate of one of the parents.

A letter of permission from a parent/guardian if the minor is traveling alone, or a letter of permission from one of the guardians/parents if the minor is traveling with one of them.

Transit through Vanuatu

A transit visa is available for those transiting through Vanuatu to other countries and not intending to leave the relevant area at the airport.

Requirements and documents for a transit visa:

- Transit visa application form.

- Visa processing fee.

- Valid passport.

- Travel itinerary or other evidence of onward travel outside of Vanuatu.

- Documents for entering another country (for example, a visa or permit).

Quarantine restrictions due to the COVID-19 epidemic

All quarantine restrictions related to the COVID-19 epidemic in Vanuatu have been lifted.

Security in Vanuatu

The country has a low level of crime. Petty theft is the most common crime, so it's best to keep any valuables safe.

Remember to lock your room at night or when you are away from the hotel and contact the local authorities if anything goes missing.

Female solo travelers should avoid walking alone at night, especially in remote areas, as more violent crimes still occur, even if very rarely.

Currency exchange in Vanuatu

Most resorts and hotels in Vanuatu accept major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard. ATMs are located on the main street of the capital of the state - Port Vila.

Most of the currency exchange offices are also open on the main street of Port Vila. The work schedule is from Monday to Friday.

Useful tips for travelers

On the islands of Vanuatu, you should not leave a tip for the waiter, because it is against the traditions of the country.

Travelers should avoid clothing that is too revealing, as social attitudes in Vanuatu are quite conservative.

Before traveling, especially during the rainy season, you should take care of vaccination against dengue fever and other tropical diseases. Travelers should also have reliable health insurance.

The best time to travel to Vanuatu is from April to October when the temperature usually ranges from 18°C to 28°C.

The rainy season in Vanuatu lasts from November to March every year.

How to get to Vanuatu?

Several airlines fly to Port Vila from overseas, including Air Vanuatu and Virgin Australia. Air Vanuatu also operates domestic inter-island flights – the fastest way to travel around the country and more comfortable than by boat.

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Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Checklist for obtaining a visa and necessary documents to Vanuatu;

Legal advice on business and immigration to Vanuatu;

Travel and medical insurance for foreigners in Vanuatu;

Insurance for international students in Vanuatu.

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