vanuatu tourism covid

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Travelling to Vanuatu

TRAVELLING TO VANUATU

We are so excited to welcome our international travellers back to our shores, with our beautiful smiles and we would to thank you for Answering the Call of Vanuatu once again!

The Vanuatu Government has released information on the expected entry requirements to Vanuatu These are designed to keep both travellers and the people of Vanuatu safe and mitigate the risks of Covid 19 as our borders reopen. 

Here’s what you need to know about travelling to Vanuatu.

VANUATU ENTRY REQUIREMENTS BEFORE YOU TRAVEL

Full vaccination against COVID-19 is encouraged but not required

Testing for COVID-19 is not required. Those who are unwell are encouraged to postpone travel.

Please refer to the  Department of Vanuatu Immigration and Passport Services  for the most up-to-date information on entry documents required.

IMMIGRATION REQUIREMENTS:

1.Travellers on  tourist visa  must: 

        a. Have a confirmed returned ticket to country of origin

        b. A confirmed accomodation at an accredited tourist facility: hotel, motel, bungalow, resort,... OR

        c. A letter of invitation from sponsor in Vanuatu

For more information, please  check here.

An accredited tourism property or facility means it was certified by the Vanuatu Government Department of Tourism, with a valid tourism permit. See attached the list of the accredited tourism businesses -  2022_Tourism_Accommodation.pdf

For more information on the  list of the Exempt and non-Exempt countries  to the Vanuatu Tourism Visa go to:  Countries_requiring_visa_or_No_Visa_for_Vanuatu_2022.pdf

Only citizens from NON-EXEMPT countries will be required to apply for a Tourism Visa, by completing the attached form and returning it to the Vanuatu Department of Immigrations and Passport Services prior to travel, for approval.

Tourism Visa will be granted upon arrival by the Vanuatu Department of Immigrations and Passport Services to all traveling citizens of EXEMPT countries.

To  download the Tourism Visa form,  please click on the link,  Tourism_Visa.pdf .

Failure to provide a confirmed booking, with an accredited tourism property may results to denied boarding or refusal by the Vanuatu Government Department Immigration.

Travellers and/or Vanuatu residents on residence visa, student visa, business visa or special category visa  MUST have a valid existing visa before boarding any flight to Vanuatu.

For any further information on these additional border measures and conditions, please contact,  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  or  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

DURING TRAVEL TO VANUATU:

A well-fitted mask is no longer required to be worn on flights to Vanuatu and at the airport upon arrival to Vanuatu. 

However, the Ministry of Health continue to recommend their use, especially for those who are vulnerable to severe COVID-19. Airlines and vessels may request masks be worn under specific conditions. 

WHEN YOU ARRIVE IN VANUATU:

You won’t need to quarantine or do any testing upon arrival.

Testing upon or after arrival is not required if there are no symptoms and there has been no exposure to COVID-19. Travellers who experience COVID-19 sign or symptoms are encouraged to isolate, OR can undertake a  COVID test*. 

*Testing is available at health facilities and pharmacies for those with symptoms. 

Arrival by Sea:  The above requirements also apply to those entering Vanuatu by sea, if there are no symptoms and there has been no exposure to COVID-19. 

IF YOU TEST POSITIVE FOR COVID 19 WHILE IN VANUATU:

Travellers to Vanuatu including tourists who test positive to COVID-19 while in Vanuatu will be requested to isolate until there has been no fever and no worsening or new symptoms for a least 48 hours.  Medical care should be sought if symptoms have not improved within 5 days or if you experience any danger sign.

For tourists, this can be done at a hotel or resort. Visitors are encouraged to have travel insurance. 

Further information is available on the COVID-19 website at www.covid19.gov.vu , through the 119 Health Information Hotline, or at the Health Promotions Vanuatu Facebook page. 

OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

Read  about Vanuatu’s Roadmap to Reopening  here.

These entry requirements are subject to change.

We advise you to click here  for more information.

We will also publish relevant updates on the Vanuatu Tourism Office  Facebook page .

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Vanuatu Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Vanuatu.

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Vanuatu, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Vanuatu. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Vanuatu include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Vanuatu’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in Vanuatu. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Vanuatu may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Vanuatu, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Vanuatu for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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Exercise normal safety precautions in Vanuatu.

Vanuatu (PDF 680.48 KB)

Pacific (PDF 1.27 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 115 for the Pro-Medical Ambulance Service (Port Vila and Lungaville only) or go to a hospital.

Call 111 or 22222 or go to the local police station.

Advice levels

Exercise normal safety precautions in Vanuatu. 

Following an incident involving a domestic charter flight, Australian High Commission staff have been advised not to use Air Taxi Vanuatu until further notice. 

• The cyclone season is from November to April, but cyclones can happen at any time. Cyclones can disrupt services and cause property damage, injuries, and loss of life. In the event of a cyclone, follow the National Disaster Management Office and  Vanuatu Meteorological and Geo-Hazards Department  advice. 
• Crime in Vanuatu is low. Crime tends to increase in the lead-up to holidays such as Independence Day (30 July) and Christmas. The risk is also higher at night or in isolated locations. Don't walk alone after dark.
• Earthquakes occur regularly. Tsunamis happen but aren't regular. If you hear a tsunami warning siren (Port Vila or Santo) or experience a long or strong tremor, move to higher ground and follow the instructions of local authorities. 
• Vanuatu has several active volcanoes, including under-sea volcanoes. Before traveling to volcanic areas, visit the  Vanuatu Meteorological and Geo-Hazards Department  website for the latest volcanic activity advice.
• There's been an increase in reports of shark sightings and attacks in Port Vila. Exercise caution when undertaking water-based activities. Follow the advice and instructions of local authorities. 

Full travel advice: Safety

• Malaria occurs in Vanuatu, especially in the north of the country. Consider taking anti-malaria medication if you're travelling to affected areas. Dengue can occur anywhere in Vanuatu. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.
• Vanuatu has had Zika virus, rubella, mumps, measles, and chickenpox cases. Check your vaccinations are up to date before you travel.
• Tap water in Port Vila, and Luganville is generally safe to drink but can be affected following cyclones or heavy rains. Outside these areas, drink boiled or bottled water.
• Medical facilities are limited. If you're ill or injured, you may need medical evacuation. This can be expensive and hard to organise. Check if your travel insurance covers this.

Full travel advice: Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. If you're convicted of a drug offence, you could face fines or jail time.
• Know the local laws. There are strict rules regarding obscene material. Penalties include prison sentences.
• Be aware of laws around alcohol. It's illegal for supermarkets to sell alcohol between midday Saturday and 7am Monday. You can still buy alcohol in hotels, bars and clubs.
• Vanuatu recognises dual nationality. If you don't travel on your Australian passport, our ability to provide consular services is limited.
• Vanuatu is a religious country (predominantly Christian) and standards of dress and behaviour are modest. Take care not to offend.

Same-sex relationships are legal but aren't widely accepted. Avoid public displays of affection.

Full travel advice: Local laws

Air Vanuatu is not currently operating flights. Check with your travel agent if your ticket may be affected, including by changes to codeshare arrangements. Vanuatu continues to be serviced by other international airlines. If you're affected by cancellations, contact your travel agent or insurance company about rescheduling flights.

• You'll need to apply for a tourist visa to enter Vanuatu when you arrive at the airport. This allows you to visit Vanuatu for up to 120 days. If you're not a tourist or you plan to stay longer, you'll need a visa. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest high commission or consulate of Vanuatu for the latest details.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter tells you what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• Contact the Australian High Commission in Port Vila for consular assistance.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Violent crime.

Crime against travellers in Vanuatu is rare. 

However, travellers and foreign residents have been  robbed ,  assaulted  and  sexually assaulted  in Vanuatu.

The risk of violent crime is higher:

• in isolated places
• when you're alone

Like elsewhere, crime in Vanuatu tends to increase on weekends and in the weeks leading up to holidays, such as  Christmas  and Independence Day (30 July).

To protect yourself from crime:

• watch your belongings on buses and taxis, especially at night
• don't go out alone after dark or to isolated places, especially on foot
• always keep your vehicle and accommodation locked
• be alert to suspicious behaviour
• be aware of opportunistic theft. Secure belongings in locked luggage or hotel safe when unattended. 

More information:

• Advice for women travellers

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Civil unrest and political tension

Civil unrest isn't common in Vanuatu. However, public protests and events that draw large groups of people have on occasion turned violent.

To protect yourself during any periods of unrest:

• avoid large crowds and big public gatherings
• monitor local media for possible unrest, protest locations or roadblocks
• follow the advice of local authorities

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Tours and adventure activities

Not all tour operators follow safety and maintenance standards.

If you plan to do a tour or  adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts.

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Climate and natural disasters

Tropical cyclones judy, kevin and lola.

Vanuatu continues to recover from the impacts of Cyclones Judy, Kevin and Lola, which have caused widespread damage. There still may be disruptions to infrastructure, services and telecommunications in some locations. 

Natural disasters and severe weather  in Vanuatu includes:

• volcanic activity
• earthquakes

Get updates on weather conditions, forecasts, natural disaster watches and warnings before and during your stay.

Monitor local and regional weather and disaster sites (see below), and plan accordingly.

If a natural disaster occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• monitor local media and other sources
• keep in contact with your friends and family at home
• Vanuatu Meteorological and Geo-Hazards Department​
• Vanuatu National Disaster Management Office
• Fiji Meteorological Service
• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• Joint Typhoon Warning Center, US Navy

Tropical storms and cyclones

The cyclone season is from November to April. Tropical storms and cyclones can also occur in other months. They can disrupt essential services and cause property damage, injuries, and loss of life. The direction and strength of a tropical cyclone can change suddenly. Cyclones can bring:

• torrential rains
• storm surges
• flash flooding
• winds up to 300km/h

The  Vanuatu National Disaster Management Office  has a  colour-coded cyclone alert system  that includes safety procedures to follow during a cyclone.

If a cyclone or tropical storm occurs:

• you may get stuck where you are
• flights could be delayed or suspended
• available flights may fill quickly
• the storm may affect access to seaports
• safe shelter may not be available

To prepare for a cyclone or tropical storm:

• know the evacuation plan for your hotel, cruise ship, or other accommodation
• identify your local shelter
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Monitor advice from the  Vanuatu National Disaster Management Office  and the  Vanuatu Meteorological and Geo-Hazards Department​ .

Flooding can occur in Vanuatu during and after cyclones and severe rain events, including:

• flash floods - from heavy rains, and overflowing/burst dams
• river floods - often from seasonal rains or severe rain events
• coastal floods - from tsunamis, storm surges and severe weather events such as cyclones

If flooding occurs:

• take official warnings seriously

Earthquakes 

Earthquakes occur regularly in Vanuatu. Minor tremors, under a magnitude of 4.0, are very common and usually have minimal impact on people and property.

Extreme shaking from major earthquakes above a magnitude of 6.0, can:

• cause tsunamis
• cause landslides and mudslides
• collapse buildings
• break gas and water lines, underground and in buildings
• knock down electricity lines

Tsunamis 

Tsunamis can occur in Vanuatu and are caused by strong and sudden movement in the ocean. This usually happens when there's an undersea  earthquake , landslide, or volcanic eruption.

A tsunami can arrive within minutes of a nearby tremor or earthquake. It can also occur if no earthquake is felt.

Vanuatu has tsunami warning sirens in Port Vila and Luganville. If you hear tsunami warning sirens or feel a long or strong tremor (lasts more than a minute or makes it hard to stand up). You should:

• move to high ground or as far inland as possible, if you are near the coast or in a low-lying area 
• follow the advice of local authorities ( Vanuatu Natural Disaster Management Office  and the  Vanuatu Meteorological and Geo-Hazards Department ).

You can follow: 

• the Pacific/ U.S. Tsunami Warning System 
• the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System;  and/or
• Vanuatu Meteorological and Geo-Hazards Department

Vanuatu has several active volcanoes, including several under-sea volcanoes. Volcanoes are active on the islands of:

Visiting an active volcano can be dangerous.

Pay attention to alerts. Alert levels go from 0 (normal, low-level activity) to 5 (very large eruption, island-wide danger).

A Level 3 alert triggers warnings to avoid the volcano summit and nearby areas. Even at lower levels, explosions and injuries from volcanic debris are possible.

Alert levels and access to volcanoes can change quickly. Before traveling to volcanic areas, visit the  Vanuatu Meteorological and Geo-Hazards Department  website for the latest volcanic activity advice. If there is a volcanic eruption:

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Health direct Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in Vanuatu. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

You'll find pharmacies in urban centres or at local clinics. They normally only open during business hours. A few urban pharmacies may open on Sunday or public holidays.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Vanuatu. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Malaria  occurs in some areas of Vanuatu, particularly in the north. Consider taking medication to prevent malaria if you plan to travel to affected areas. Discuss options with your doctor.

Outbreaks of other insect-borne diseases also occur across Vanuatu. These include:

To protect yourself from these diseases:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

See a doctor if you have a fever, muscle pain, a rash or a bad headache.

Other infectious risks

• pertussis  (whooping cough)
• varicella  (chickenpox)

Discuss options with your doctor if:

• your vaccinations aren't up to date
• you're travelling with children or babies who haven't finished their recommended vaccinations

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases can occur in Vanuatu. These include:

• leptospirosis
• tuberculosis
• sexually transmitted infections

Tap water in the major urban centres of Port Vila, and Luganville is generally safe to drink. Water may be affected following cyclones, heavy rain or volcanic ash fall.

To protect yourself from illness:

• avoid raw or undercooked food, such as salads
• outside of Port Vila and Luganville, drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes

See a doctor if you develop a fever or diarrhoea.

• Infectious diseases

Fish poisoning

Eating reef fish can result in  ciguatera poisoning . Ciguatera is a naturally occurring seafood toxin.

Get urgent medical help if you suspect poisoning.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Hospital and medical facilities in Vanuatu are limited.

Costs for treatment, including medication, can be high. Doctors and hospitals often require immediate cash payments.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated. Medical evacuation is expensive and hard to organise. 

The only hyperbaric chamber in Vanuatu is in Port Vila. Many popular dive sites are located on other islands.

If you're in a diving accident, it may take hours or days to reach the necessary medical facilities. The standard of rescue and emergency services is not as high as in Australia.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . However, we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

If you commit a drug offence, penalties can include fines and jail sentences. 

Carrying or using drugs

Obscene publications

It's illegal to import, possess, distribute, display or produce obscene publications. The rules about what is obscene are stricter than in Australia. Penalties include prison sentences.

Alcohol sales

Selling alcohol in supermarkets and similar outlets between midday Saturday and 7am Monday is illegal.

During these times, alcohol may still be served at clubs, bars and hotels.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Vanuatu recognises dual nationality.

If you're a dual citizen, this limits the consular services we can provide if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your Australian passport .

Dual nationals

Local customs

Vanuatu has modest standards of dress and behaviour. Take care not to offend.

Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

You can apply for a tourist visa on arrival if:

• you're visiting Vanuatu purposely for tourism and leisure for up to 120 days 
• you have a booking with an accredited tourism facility or carry a letter of support from family/friends if staying at private accommodation
• you hold a return ticket
• your passport is valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry to Vanuatu.

Tourist visas are subject to the following conditions:

• engaging in employment, commercial or business activities is not permitted.
•  is valid for single entry only.
• may not be converted to a different visa status, e.g. business visa, while in Vanuatu.
• On-shore extension of tourist visas is not permitted.
• Vanuatu Department of Immigration and Passport Service

Other formalities

Customs and biosecurity.

Customs authorities enforce strict rules on importing items, such as:

• obscene material
• Vanuatu Customs and Inland Revenue Department
• Biosecurity Vanuatu
• Vanuatu Department of Immigration  

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a  new passport . 

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, let the Australian Government know as soon as possible:

In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .

If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTQIA+ travellers  

The local currency is the Vanuatu Vatu (VUV). Small shops and local market stalls only accept Vatu.

In Port Vila, you can use Australian dollars at some: shops, restaurants, and hotels.

You can use credit cards in Port Vila, but they're less widely accepted elsewhere.

Ask your bank if your ATM card will work in Vanuatu.

Local travel

Beach and land access.

To avoid trespassing, ask local landowners before going to non-public areas, including beaches.

Some landowners may charge a fee for access.

Driving permit

You can drive in Vanuatu on an Australian driver's licence for up to 3 months.

After that, you'll need a local licence.

Road travel

Road travel in Vanuatu can be dangerous. Roads are often:

• poorly maintained

Pedestrians often walk on roads and can be hard to see, especially at night.

Vehicles in Vanuatu drive on the right-hand side of the road.

If you plan to drive in Vanuatu:

• check your travel insurance covers you
• learn local traffic laws and practices before driving

Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check if your travel insurance covers you for riding a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Only use registered taxis. Try to arrange these through your hotel or resort.

Public transport

There's no formal public transport system in Vanuatu.

In Port Vila and some areas, transport is available through privately owned:

• small buses

Public transport vehicles can be poorly maintained. Many don't have insurance.

By law, inter-island boats and ferries must have a current seaworthy certificate. However, many don't. Look into their safety before taking these services.

Several international cruises schedule stopovers in Vanuatu.

Arrival into Vanuatu by private yacht is subject to approval processes and quarantine. See the Travel section.

Travelling by boat

International and domestic flights can be disrupted at short notice by natural disasters, aircraft issues and other events. 

Travel to outer islands is often on small local aircraft. DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths. 

Many domestic airports have basic or no facilities.

Airstrips are generally short. Runways are mostly unsealed.

Schedules may be changed or suspended at short notice due to the following:

• weather conditions
• ash clouds from volcanic activity

Check  Vanuatu's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

•   Air travel

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Call the ProMedical Ambulance Service on 115 (Port Vila and Luganville only) or go to a hospital.

Call 111 or 22222, or go to the local police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Check the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian High Commission in Port Vila. 

Australian High Commission, Port Vila

Winston Churchill Avenue Port Vila, Vanuatu

Phone: +678 22 777 Website: vanuatu.embassy.gov.au Email: [email protected] Facebook: @AustralianHighCommissionVanuatu X: @AusHCVanuatu

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

Vanuatu - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Vanuatu.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Vanuatu.

If you decide to travel to Vanuatu:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Vanuatu.   
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .    

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

1 page per stamp.

Not required for stays under 30 days.

All travelers must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. No other vaccinations are currently required.

Amounts over VUV 1,000,000 (USD 10,000) in local or foreign currency equivalent must be declared.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy port moresby.

The Embassy maintains no permanent presence in Vanuatu. Harbour City Road, Konedobu Port Moresby, NCD, 121 Papua New Guinea Telephone : +(675) 308-9100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(675) 7200-9439 Fax: +(675) 321-1593 Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

U.S. citizens need a valid passport, onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds in order to enter Vanuatu. Tourist visas are not required for stays of up to 30 days. If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you may apply for a standard residence permit or for an extension of stay for up to 120 days at the Immigration Office. You should do so before your initial 30-day period expires. Please contact the Principal Immigration Officer, Immigration Department, at (+678) 22354.

For further information on entry requirements, particularly if you are planning to enter on a private sailing vessel, please visit the  Permanent Mission of the Republic of Vanuatu to the United Nations website , 800 Second Avenue, Suite 400B, New York, NY 10017, Telephone: (+1) 212 661 4303; fax: (+1) 212 422 3427, (+1) 212 661 5544. The Mission may also be contacted via e-mail at [email protected] .

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Vanuatu.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Public Safety:  Civil disorder in Vanuatu is relatively rare; however, you should avoid public demonstrations and/or political rallies if they occur.

Crime:  Although violent crime is relatively rare in Vanuatu, there is always a risk that you could be a victim of theft, burglary, sexual harassment, or sexual assault. Take reasonable precautions to avoid undue risk, especially in tourist areas. Women should avoid going out alone at night or to isolated locations. The Embassy has also received some reports of ATM or credit card number theft after a card was used in Vanuatu. While this does not appear to be widespread, travelers are advised to monitor their accounts after using their ATM or credit cards in Vanuatu for any unauthorized activity.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should contact the U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea for assistance at (+675) 308 2100.

Report crimes to the local police at 1111 or non-emergency (+678) 2222 in Port Vila and (+678) 36222 in Santo, and contact the U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea at (+675) 308 2100. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights homes
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence should contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. 

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Customs:  Vanuatu customs authorities may enforce strict regulations on importing or exporting items such as firearms, certain prescription drugs, wooden artifacts, exotic animals, food items, and sexually explicit material. Other products may be subject to quarantine. For specific information regarding customs requirements, contact the  Permanent Mission of the Republic of Vanuatu  to the United Nations, 800 Second Avenue, Suite 400B, New York, NY 10017, Telephone: (212) 661-4303; fax: (212) 422-3427, (212) 661-5544.

Natural Disasters:  The United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) has consistently ranked Vanuatu number one on the World Risk Index for its many different types of natural disasters and its difficulties in recovering from them.  Visitors need to be aware of disasters which can occur at any time.

Cyclones:  Cyclones can occur suddenly in Vanuatu. Cyclone season usually lasts from November to April, and severe flooding, landslides, and disruptions to services may occur. Local media and hotels will convey cyclone alerts issued by local authorities.

Volcanoes/Earthquakes:  Vanuatu is subject to volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis. If you plan to visit volcanic areas, contact the Department of Geology and Mines at (677) 22423 or the  Vanuatu Tourism Office  at [email protected] prior to traveling to areas where volcanic activity may occur. Detailed information about earthquakes is available from the  National Earthquake Information Center of the United States Geological Survey . If a natural disaster occurs, follow the advice of local authorities. Visit the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards page to obtain current climate advisories, including volcano activity levels All of Ambae Island and parts of Ambrym Island have been evacuated due to high and on-going volcanic activity. Avoid areas being evacuated.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the  Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report .

LGBTI Travelers : Same-sex sexual relations are criminalized in Vanuatu. However, there are no known incidents of the prosecution, targeting, or harassment of consenting adults. Vanuatu is a conservative country, and we recommend that you avoid public displays of affection. See our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and the Vanuatu Human Rights Report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance : There is no law specifically prohibiting discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities. There are no special programs to assist persons with disabilities and no legislation mandating access to buildings, information, and communications. In practice, most buildings in Vanuatu are not accessible to persons with disabilities, and disabled persons often rely on assistance from friends and family.

Recreational Diving:  Diving in Vanuatu has the potential to be dangerous. We suggest the following tips for visitors who plan to dive while in Vanuatu:

• Verify that your dive operator is currently certified through one of the international diving associations (PADI, NAUI, BSAC, CMAS, etc.).
• Ensure that rental equipment is in good working condition, with up-to-date inspection stamps.
• Make sure your equipment fits properly.
• Postpone or cancel diving activity if any equipment is faulty.
• Try to remain in pairs or in a group that includes a dive guide.
• Determine your level of training before engaging in deep water or wreck dives.
• Confirm that dive operators have adequate onsite emergency equipment and diver-recall systems.
• Know that the nearest hyperbaric chamber might be hours away, or require a plane flight. There is one hyperbaric facility in Port Vila, Vanuatu, far from some of the more remote dive sites. Due to the high costs for decompression services and associated emergency transportation, divers are strongly advised to obtain adequate medical evacuation and diver’s insurance.
• Please report any unsafe conditions or diving practices to either the certifying diving association or the local authorities.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Local customary law is observed in Vanuatu especially in rural areas. Disputes based in customary law are generally resolved through a compensation-based settlement mediated by law enforcement or law government officials.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Natural Disasters:  Vanuatu is among the most natural disaster prone countries in the world. Visitors should be aware that natural disasters can occur at any time with little or not notice. For general information on disaster preparedness visit the Department of State Crisis and Disaster Preparedness  webpage.

Cyclones:  Cyclones can occur suddenly in Vanuatu. Cyclone season usually lasts from November to April. Damaging winds, rough seas, intense rain and flash flooding, landslides, and disruptions to services may occur. Local media and hotels will convey cyclone alerts issued by local authorities.

Volcanoes/Earthquakes:  Vanuatu is frequently subject to volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis. If you plan to visit volcanic areas, contact the Department of Geology and Mines at (677) 22423 or the  Vanuatu Tourism Office  at prior to traveling to areas where volcanic activity may occur.

Detailed information about earthquakes is available from the  National Earthquake Information Center of the United States Geological Survey . If a natural disaster occurs, follow the advice of local authorities. Visit the  Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards page  to obtain current climate advisories, including volcano activity levels. All of Ambae Island and parts of Ambrym Island have been evacuated permanently due to regular volcanic activity. Avoid these areas and others under evacuation orders.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: Same-sex sexual relations are criminalized in Vanuatu. See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:

The law in Vanuatu does not prohibit discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure. Accessibility is generally more prevalent in the capital city, Port Vila. The availability of rental, repair, replacement parts for aids/equipment/devices, or service providers, such as sign language interpreters or personal assistants is extremely limited.

Students:  See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Travel by road can be hazardous. Always use your seatbelt. Roads are generally narrow and in poor repair. Only the capital city of Port Vila and the town of Luganville have consistently paved roads, which have a maximum speed limit of 30 miles per hour (50 kilometers per hour). On all roads, give way to traffic coming from the right, and to traffic coming from the left at roundabouts. To avoid trespassing, seek permission from local landowners before accessing non-public areas, including beaches. Some landowners may charge a fee for access.

Traffic Laws: If you are involved in a road accident, local law requires you to stop and stay at the scene until the police arrive. If a crowd gathers after an accident and you feel threatened, proceed directly to a police station. Incidents of individuals being harmed by crowds as a result of a traffic accident are rare.

Many local drivers are not well trained and do not follow basic traffic laws. Be aware of drivers under the influence of alcohol, pedestrians who are not aware of traffic, and children running into the road. Drivers have very limited visibility due to a lack of roadway illumination. Police control of traffic is limited, even in Port Vila. When driving, be alert at all times. Street signs and traffic lights are scarce or may not be in working order. 

Public Transportation: Taxi services are widely available in Port Vila and Luganville and are generally safe. Public bus and mini-bus services are also available, but safety standards may vary widely and information on routes may not be available in a published form. Incidences of petty theft are generally rare by are more frequent on public transportation.

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Contact Vanuatu’s national tourist office or the Vanuatu Police Force Traffic Section for more information on road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Vanuatu, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the Government of Vanuatu’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Vanuatu should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA)  report.

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Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Vanuatu’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Vanuatu set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Vanuatu Department of Immigration and Passport Services .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Vanuatu.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Vanuatu, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can visit Vanuatu without a pre-arranged visa for up to 30 days. Border officials will issue you with a visa on arrival. You must have a ticket for onward or return travel. 

To stay longer than 30 days or to work, study, travel for business or other reasons, you must have a visa. Contact the Vanuatu Department of Immigration and Passport Services .

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Vanuatu guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Vanuatu . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

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Vanuatu, one of the last Covid hermit nations, to open to tourists after two years

The tourism-dependent Pacific country will reopen with almost no restrictions in July, though there are concerns about lack of airline deals

Vanuatu, one of the last Covid hermit nations, is set to open up to international travel, but there are concerns the country is not ready to restart tourism, with a lack of deals with foreign airlines posing a significant problem.

From 1 July, international tourists will be able to return to Vanuatu, a country of 300,000 people three hours from Australia, which has had some of the toughest border restrictions in the world through the pandemic .

Vanuatu closed its borders to visitors in March 2020, only allowing a capped number of residents and visa holders to return throughout this period, with strict quarantine requirements.

But from next month, the rules will relax almost completely, there will be no quarantine or arrival caps, with travellers – vaccinated or unvaccinated – allowed to enter the country if they can show a certified negative rapid antigen test taken 24 hours before arrival.

The tourism-dependent country is keen to get visitors back, particularly as nearby Pacific nations, including Fiji and Samoa, reopen to tourists. Before the pandemic, tourism made up around 40% of GDP. In April 2020, just a few months into the pandemic, the Vanuatu government estimated that 70% of tourism jobs had been lost due to Covid-19. Last year, the Vanuatu government estimated the combined economic cost of Covid-19 and Cyclone Harold at around $850m.

However, there have been concerns that the tourism industry is not ready for travel to resume, with a particular concern about the lack of deals with foreign airlines for travel into Vanuatu.

Currently travel to Vanuatu is only possible through Air Vanuatu, the country’s beleaguered national carrier, which only has two aircraft for its international operations. There are concerns that if anything were to happen to the heavily indebted national airline, Vanuatu would become a hermit nation once again.

Air Vanuatu turned on its online booking system at the end of April, with Air Vanuatu chief commercial officer Greg Wilson saying bookings for travel “are starting to look healthy”.

“We have a very strong demand for New Zealand, the majority of which are seasonal workers wanting to come home, but we are seeing very good numbers starting to come in,” Wilson said.

The national carrier will also resume its services to the national capital Port Vila, from major Australian capital cities – Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne. It has also scheduled flights to New Zealand, Fiji and the Solomon Islands.

The Vanuatu Tourism Office’s CEO, Adela Issachar Aru, told the Guardian that Vanuatu has been working hard to get ready for the reopening, with air connectivity a significant component of the nation’s tourism recovery strategy.

On Tuesday, Virgin Australia announced it would start direct services from Brisbane to Port Vila from March 2023, with up to five flights a week.

“Vanuatu stands ready to welcome Australians back to our shores from July 1 and the Virgin Australia scheduled flights from Brisbane to Port Vila provide even more choice for Australians answering the call of Vanuatu,” said Issachar Aru, who added that talks are also underway with Qantas and Air Cal.

She said the industry understood the importance of connectivity and that if not addressed in time, Vanuatu would lose out to other markets in the Pacific that are also reopening.

“Even though we have not yet secured the approvals of the other foreign airlines coming into the country.”

Glen Craig, the chair of the Vanuatu Business Resilience Council, says he views air connectivity as one of Vanuatu’s significant risks. The only operator currently scheduled to fly in and out of Vanuatu is the national carrier, Air Vanuatu.

The airline is heavily in debt and has repeatedly relied on government bailouts to stay in the air.

“Vanuatu is dependent on its heavily indebted national airline, which is the only airline that flies to New Zealand, one of Vanuatu’s top three markets, and to Australia, which is our main market,” Craig said. “If something went wrong with the national carrier, which is making huge losses, and the government couldn’t fund it, we would be in some difficulties.”

The opposition leader, Ralph Regenvanu, is less optimistic about the nation’s readiness.

“We have to open up, but we are definitely not ready. There are no confirmed agreements for [foreign] airlines to fly to Vanuatu. We’ve got a few weeks yet, so we can only hope something happens,” Regenvanu said.

“I think we all have our hopes up about the opening of the country for tourism, but I think we are going to be disappointed.”

Vanuatu’s closed borders meant it kept out the Delta variant of coronavirus. Omicron swept through the country earlier this year and has now been recorded in all six provinces. But hospitalisations and deaths due to Covid have been few, with just 14 recorded deaths and 10,500 cases. Just under 40% of the population is fully vaccinated.

Sophia Rodwell, acting manager at the Holiday Inn, one of the capital’s largest full-service resorts, says the industry is excited to welcome people back. She says the resort is well staffed and well-prepared.

“Like any well-executed plan, we have been working in stages,” Rodwell said.

First arrivals into the country are expected to be those visiting family and friends, with hopes for growth in wider tourism arrivals in the months ahead.

“The big change in the industry’s tourism plan was to maximise its natural assets when compared to markets such as Fiji,” Rodwell said.

“So, white sand beach? Tick. Surf? Tick. Reef? Tick, but Vanuatu also has much more. It’s got blue holes, it has the jungle, it has waterfalls, and so our positioning really leans heavily on that.”

For smaller tourism operators, such as family bungalow owners and small tour operators hard hit by more than two years of no income, the government has initiated a low-interest loans program to allow them to rebuild.

But there are concerns about the state of the tourism infrastructure across the main islands, with many considering it will take time for the tourism sector to rebuild and retrain new staff.

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Vanuatu feeling the pinch as coronavirus pandemic keeps tourists away

Pacific Beat

Topic: COVID-19

The coronavirus pandemic has seen island resorts in Vanuatu left completely empty. ( Supplied: Dan McGarry )

With school holidays in Australia, Vanuatu's picturesque beaches and turquoise waters would normally be busy with tourists at this time of year — but due to the coronavirus pandemic, they're empty.

Key points:

• Tens of thousands of people have lost jobs in Vanuatu's tourism industry
• A large stimulus package was promised, but some say they have yet to receive any help
• Vanuatu's Government said it couldn't afford to continue financial support beyond July

"Tourism has been decimated here," Liz Pechan from The Havannah Vanuatu, a five-star resort on the island of Efate, told the ABC.

"I was shocked for a little while, I think I was a bit dumbfounded: like how can this happen, how can the world just stop?"

Like the vast majority of hotels, Ms Pechan currently has no bookings, and more than 30 staff have already been let go.

Tens of thousands of workers in the country's tourism industry are believed to have lost their jobs due to the pandemic.

"There was a lot of tears from both those who were staying and those who were leaving," Ms Pechan said.

"We're very connected with our community, and it was very tough to look someone in eyes and say, 'Look, I'm really sorry I've had to make this decision, it's not because I want to make this decision.'"

The Vanuatu Government has promised its biggest stimulus package ever to try soften the blow, and at 4.2 billion vatu ($52 million), it's considered to be one of the largest in the Pacific on per capita basis.

But people say they are yet to receive any of the relief payments promised for those who have lost work.

Selling homemade donuts to get by

Twenty-three-year-old Gideon Rambe lost his job as a pizza chef at another exclusive island resort. Four months on, he's still without formal work.

"They said to me now we are closed, because Government are approving now no more flights for planes coming to Vanuatu," Mr Rambe said.

Instead, he wakes up at 3:00am each morning and works seven days a week, selling homemade donuts, called kato locally.

He said he was making enough to get by, and was saving up to buy a pizza oven so he could open his own take away business.

But he said dozens of his former colleagues were not doing as well.

"Some of them don't do anything," Mr Rambe said.

"I talk to them ... 'I'm at home, I do kato. If you want, I will teach you and show you.'"

"I tell them, you must work hard! When the resort is not open, we try to do something."

'I need to keep my family going'

It's not just those directly employed by resorts and hotels who are suffering.

"It's quite challenging. It's tough on us, for me," said Joslyn Garae Lulu, the proprietor of a successful small handicrafts business.

She said her enterprise had been destroyed by the international border closures, which have kept tourists out of Vanuatu.

"Whatever I have in stock, I can't sell them because we don't have customers anymore," she said.

"I'm a widow, I need to keep my family going, my kids need to go to school, and we need food."

Ms Lulu said she had seen nothing of the income payments that were promised for people who had lost work due to the pandemic.

"Whatever savings we had, we used up," she said.

"They promised us a stimulus package, but now as we are speaking, there's nothing yet."

Double disaster means stimulus can't last forever

Vanuatu's Finance Minister Johnny Koanapo said he was happy with how his Government has handled the growing economic crisis.

"It's over 4.2 billion vatu [in stimulus] that we've rolled out. I'm satisfied with the way it's going, although this is the first time ever we're running this stimulus package," he said.

He confirmed the Government would extend the income support through July, but admitted they wouldn't be able to afford it beyond that.

Cyclone Harold, which devastated the country in April , left Vanuatu with a mammoth damage bill of about 28 billion vatu ($350 million).

"The stimulus package, in particular the employment stabilisation package that's going out, it's not something you can sustain over time, especially with the uncertainty that's hanging over us," Mr Koanapo said.

"You don't know when COVID is going to finish, so we're switching policy on that in the coming weeks and months."

He said the aim of that switch was to make Vanuatu more self-sufficient, focusing on food security and bolstering the local agriculture sector — an area that has come under unprecedented pressure due to both Cyclone Harold and the global coronavirus pandemic.

The natural disaster damaged local food production, while the virus has interrupted imports of vital foodstuffs.

"It's just the tough reality that this country's faced with — it's a beautiful country, but we're faced with a lot of these natural disasters that keep affecting our economy," Mr Koanapo said.

"We want to create a resilient system where people can call on you to depend on agriculture, and it's created a kind of character as well in our minds that you have to be resilient in tough times, because tough times are here to stay."

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In an innovative response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought global tourism to a halt in March 2020, Vanuatu’s national tourism destination marketing organization, the Vanuatu Tourism Office, launched campaigns to encourage tourists to return to the country once travel restrictions are lifted. The campaign’s slogans were ‘We’ll Keep it Beautiful for You’ and ‘We’re Saving You a Spot’.

The campaigns were informed by the 2019-2030 Vanuatu Sustainable Tourism Policy by the Vanuatu Department of Tourism, and in November 2019 the same department organized a Sustainable Islands Tourism Conference to kick start implementation of the policy.

The overarching vision of Vanuatu’s Sustainable Tourism Policy is “to protect and celebrate Vanuatu’s unique environment, culture, kastom and people through sustainable and responsible tourism.” The Policy includes five goals: 1) to develop and manage a sustainable and responsible tourism industry; 2) visitors connect with Vanuatu’s environment, culture, and its people; 3) sustainable and responsible tourism products and services developed, supported, and marketed to attract responsible, high-value tourists; 4) tourism that enhances, conserves, and protects the environmental and cultural resources of Vanuatu; and 5) sustainable and responsible tourism brings improved income and well-being for Vanuatu and its people.

Vanuatu is the first country in the South Pacific to base its Sustainable Tourism Policy on the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) criteria for sustainable destinations and the first country to receive Sustainable Tourism Training by the GSTC to promote the implementation of the Policy, including training for third party auditors to be used by the Vanuatu Department of Tourism. According to Bob Loughman, Minister for Tourism, Trade, Commerce and Ni Vanuatu Business, the Policy showcases Vanuatu’s commitment to “value, develop, promote and interpret our cultural and environmental assets in a way that protects and conserves them leaving these precious assets for future generations.”

The Sustainable Islands Tourism Conference covered a variety of topics related to the Sustainable Tourism Policy as well as issues relevant to the Department of Tourism and its Conference partners: the Government of New Zealand, GSTC, the World Indigenous Tourism Alliance (WINTA), Pacific Agribusiness Research in Development Initiative phase 2 (PARDI2), the Australian Centre for International Agriculture Research (ACIAR), and the Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Foundation (SSTF). Specifically, the conference focused on sustainable destination management, the protection of sustainable tourism assets, and how to promote a fairer distribution of tourism revenue. It also touched upon the idea of “regenerative tourism,” which has become a key guiding foundation of the Vanuatu five-year Sustainable Tourism Strategy to be launched in January 2021.

Highlighting the steady growth of Vanuatu’s economy and its tourism sector in recent years, an  AdNews article notes that the Vanuatu Government “hopes that the new campaign will help sustain this momentum once the current situation passes, by keeping Vanuatu’s warm spirit alive and ensuring the destination is front-of-mind when consumers are able to travel again.”

The campaign features locals showing how they are keeping the country beautiful using the hashtag #VanuatuMoments shared by the Vanuatu Tourism Office through its Facebook and Instagram channels. [Publication: Vanuatu Sustainable Tourism Policy ] [ Vanuatu Environment Data Portal ] [ Pacific Environment Portal ]

This policy brief was authored by Dina Hestad, Ph.D., Thematic Expert for SDGs and Small Island Developing States.

This story was made possible with funding support from the Government of Sweden through the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and was developed with the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) using the Pacific Environment Portal , which enables users to find, access, and use regional and national data. The portal has been developed by the regional UNEP-GEF Inform project executed by SPREP, which has established national environment data portals in 14 Pacific island countries to help address the challenges of storing and accessing data. The online database of information and datasets aims to help improve decision making and reporting on the environment. 

An Industry in Crisis: How Vanuatu’s Tourism Sector Is Seeking Economic Recovery

• First Online: 30 October 2021

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• Anna Naupa 3 ,
• Sarah Mecartney 4 ,
• Liz Pechan 5 &
• Nick Howlett 6  

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Although Vanuatu experienced no domestic COVID-19 cases in 2020, preventive border closures resulted in the sudden downturn of Vanuatu’s tourism industry, and the closure of many tourism-oriented businesses. Employment experienced a parallel downturn, in both the formal and informal sectors, despite creative efforts at gaining employment. This necessitated a rapid policy shift by the Government directed towards domestic tourism with some limited success. Longer term redevelopment of tourism focused on COVID-safe business readiness and an emergent theme of greater public-private coalition-building to accelerate national economic recovery efforts, including through a reimagining of the industry to cope with the ‘new normal’.

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Watt, G., & Brenner, H. (2020). Cruise Tourism in Vanuatu: Impacts and Issues . The Council for Australasian Tourism and Hospitality Education 2020 Conference, 344–349.

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Naupa, A., Mecartney, S., Pechan, L., Howlett, N. (2021). An Industry in Crisis: How Vanuatu’s Tourism Sector Is Seeking Economic Recovery. In: Campbell, Y., Connell, J. (eds) COVID in the Islands: A comparative perspective on the Caribbean and the Pacific. Palgrave Macmillan, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-16-5285-1_13

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VANUATU TOURISM OFFICE SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH ROYAL CARIBBEAN GROUP

Friday, 23rd August 2024 – Port-Vila, Vanuatu: The Vanuatu Tourism Office and The Royal Caribbean Group entered into an agreement to strengthen the collaboration between the two organizations to enhance research to inform strategic development, promotion and growth of cruise tourism in Vanuatu. This is in line with the Vanuatu Tourism Sustainable Strategy of 2021 to 2025.

This milestone will allow for the organizations to collaborate in undertaking visitors research and data sharing to understand cruise travelers’ preference and sentiments and spending behavior. Insight from the research will the Vanuatu Government and partners to guide policy directives that to assist the local tourism industry, in particular operators to better cater for the cruise visitors.

The signing was witnessed by the Honorable Minister of Trade and Commerce, the representatives of the Ministry of Trade and Commerce, Governance for Growth, Market Development Facility, Australian High Commission, New Zealand High Commission, the Vanuatu Bureau of Statistics, Vanuatu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Department of Tourism, Royal Caribbean group and the Vanuatu Tourism Office.

“Today’s cruise passengers seek immersive experiences and authentic interactions with local cultures and communities. They desire not just to see but to connect with our heritage, traditions and natural beauty. So, it is imperative that we take actionable steps to enhance our services, through guided tours, cultural events, or sustainable practices that protects our environment” The Hon. Bob Loughman Weibur, the Minister of Trade and Commerce said during his speech.

The business intelligence team of the Vanuatu Tourism Office will be leading the implementation of cruise research with collaboration from the Vanuatu Bureau of Statistics to inform the Department of Tourism in the implementation of Vanuatu Sustainable Cruise Development Strategy.

“The cruise industry in Vanuatu welcomed its first cruise ship in November 2022, after the covid aftermath therefore, it is necessary to get new travel information, data and insights from the Cruise Liners such as the Royal Caribbean Group and our cruise visitors, and to connect them with our operators and businesses to better understand the cruise market. This agreement will enable our agency and its Partners to improve our planning and strengthen our marketing efforts for the recovery of the cruising sector as we aim to increase the yield and spend from all visitors arriving in Vanuatu” says the CEO of Vanuatu Tourism Office.

“We are delighted to support Vanuatu’s economic growth through cruise tourism. We are proud of our longstanding partnership with the Vanuatu Government and are excited to strengthen our collaboration with the Vanuatu Tourism Office.” stated Gavin Smith, Vice President and Managing Director for Royal Caribbean International AUNZ.

The Vanuatu Tourism Office would like to acknowledge the assistance of the Government of Vanuatu, Department of Tourism, New Zealand High commission, Australian High commission, Vanuatu Bureau of Statistics, Governance of Growth and the Market Development Facility for their support in the activities of cruising and yachting to enable this milestone to happen.

Atama Tamanilo

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International Visitors Arrivals - April 2024

1. april 2024 highlights.

• Total arrivals by air in April 2024 stood at 6,912 .
• Residents arrival makes up 26% and visitor arrivals make  up 74% of the total arrivals by air.
• Holiday visitors represent 76% of all air arrivals.
• Visitors residing in Australia recorded the highest percent at 49% of all air arrivals.
• The average length of stay for visitors is 10 days .
• The average age of visitors is 42 Years .
• Day visitors stood at 13,513 in April 2024
• Total departures stood at 7,649 in April 2024. Residents represents 16% of all departure and visitor’s departure with 84% .

2. Overview

• The total number of international visitor arrivals stood at 18,645, with 5,128 arrivals by air, marking a 20% increase compared to the previous month. The increase was attributed to an increase in the number of air arrivals for holiday purposes by 17% when compared to the previous month.
• Vanuatu welcomed 5 cruise ships in April 2024 carrying a total of 13,513 day visitors, constituting 72% of the total visitors arriving by sea during that month.

3. Purpose of visit

Holiday visitors made up 76% of all international visitor arrivals to Vanuatu; followed by Other, Education and Sports at 11%, Business meetings conferences at 8%, Visiting Friends and relatives at 5% and stop-over visitors at less than 1%.

4. Country of usual residence (for visitors arriving by air)

Australian visitors accounted for 49% of all international visitors by air followed by Europe at 20%, New Zealand at 8%, Other Pacific Countries at 7%, China at 6%, North America and Other Countries at 5% each and Japan at 1%.

5. Average intended length of stay (for visitors arriving by air)

International visitors by air spent an average of 10 days in Vanuatu. Visitors to Port Vila spent an average of 9 days and Luganville with 11 days.

6. Average age of visitors

• The average age for visitors travelling by air is 42 years old.
• This represents 36% of all visitors arriving to Vanuatu within the age group of 30 - 49 years old and also 39% within the age group of 50+ years old.

Table Downloads

Table 1 - Summary of Overseas Migration.xlsx

Table 2 - Visitor Arrivals by Purpose of Visit.xlsx

Table 3 - Visitor Arrivals by Usual Country of Residence.xlsx

Table 4 - Overseas Arrivals of Residents by Nationality.xlsx

Table 5 - Visitors Arriving by Air Intended Length of Stay.xlsx

Table 6 - Visitors Arriving by Air Average Age.xlsx

Table 7 - Visitors travelling to Outer Islands, Vanuatu.xlsx

Table 8 - Visitors usual residence arrivals by purpose of visit.xlsx

Data Source and Revisions

All International arrival by air provided in this report is sourced from the passenger processing modules within ASYCUDA World system from the Department of Customs and the Migration Information Data Analysis System (MIDAS) from the department of immigration through International Organization for Migration (IOM). Cruise ship figures are also supplied by the Department of Customs through the Passenger processing module.

The Vanuatu Bureau of Statistics is releasing monthly provisional international visitor arrivals highlighted in the tables from January 2019 onwards. This will allow for anomalies and consistency checks with the Department of Customs and Inland Revenue (DCIR) before release of actual figures in Quarterly or Annual Statistical Indicator report.

Get the IVA April 2024 Report (PDF)

Next update (Monthly) release date

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1. Highlights

5. Average intended length of stay (for visitors arriving by air) 

6. Average age of visitors (for visitors arriving by air) 

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Section 1: Vanuatu’s Challenge

A compound disaster

Severe Tropical Cyclone (TC) Harold tore across the northern islands of Vanuatu with torrential rain and sustained winds up to 270km per hour. It took lives, destroyed houses, food gardens, businesses and infrastructure, leaving enduring scars on families, communities and the nation.

We have faced the force of cyclones past. They strike, destroy and move on: leaving people to rally, clean up and restore their lives. This time, the path to recovery will be much harder to navigate. COVID-19 is not just a complicating factor, nor a separate threat to be dealt with. It means we face a compound disaster that is unique in the way it is still unravelling, with no clear trajectory or end in sight.

The compound nature of TC Harold and COVID-19 intensifies the scale and broadens the scope of the human, social, economic and environmental impacts. Swift lockdown of international borders provided a precious window to prepare on the health side, but restrictions crippled the economy and hindered the humanitarian response. Competing pressures also exist from managing other events, including the Tanna volcano ash fall and acid rain, Teouma flooding, drought and the ongoing Ambae volcano recovery. Ever looming is the prospect of future disasters.

The enormity of events and the challenge ahead has the potential to considerably change the social contract between people and government. Around the world we have seen the fallout from the pandemic deepen community divisions. Geopolitical tensions are escalating, changing trade relations and threatening peace. Some countries are cautiously reopening under the fear of a second wave of infection. Others have seemingly thrown caution to the wind. Elsewhere the pandemic’s first wave has yet to break, and many places least able to cope are yet to be fully tested.

More than any other, this compound disaster has blurred the lines between response, recovery and disaster risk reduction (preparedness and prevention). The immediate danger of TC Harold has ended, yet social pressures and trauma remain, and in some cases are escalating. The concurrent disruptions across sectors exacerbate existing and emerging social risks. Additionally, we are confronted by a number of potential scenarios in relation to COVID-19. These may substantially and rapidly shift focus and the direction of resources as different situations unfold. A critical factor will be whether or not the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 gets into the community. Conversely, risk mitigation, including keeping the borders closed, has already had a detrimental impact on the economy, society and communities. If the coronavirus does enter Vanuatu, the health focus would need to immediately swing from prevention and preparedness to treatment and containment. An internal lockdown would heavily impact private and domestic sector participation in recovery processes, add further stress to the economy and deepen the impact on community coping mechanisms.

Amidst the concern and uncertainty, experience assures us that working together we can and will recover, rebuild and emerge stronger and more resilient.

Related Content

Recommendations of actions for resilience and sustainability: port villa, vanuatu: country preparedness package, unicef pacific in vanuatu: partner update, november – december 2016, unicef pacific in vanuatu: partner update, september – october 2016.