Fiji

The Land of Smiles
and Serenity

Flag of Fiji
Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-Fijian citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Fiji.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Fiji.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from over 100 nations (e.g., US, UK, EU, Australia, New Zealand, Japan) can enter Fiji with a valid passport and stay for up to 4 months without a visa. A visitor permit is issued on arrival.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations not on the visa-exempt list must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Fiji.
  • Special Entry Provisions:
    • Holders of valid, multiple-entry visas from Australia, New Zealand, Schengen states, the US, or UK do not receive automatic exemptions but may use these to support visa applications.
    • No additional visa is required for transit passengers staying less than 72 hours with a confirmed onward ticket.

ID Card Entry

  • No countries are permitted to enter Fiji using only a national ID card; a valid passport is mandatory for all.

Visa Types

  • Visitor Permit: Allows entry and stay for up to 4 months (extendable to 6 months with approval). Issued on arrival for visa-exempt countries.
  • Long-Term Visa: For stays longer than 6 months (e.g., work or residency). Valid for up to 3 years, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 4 months (extendable to 6 months with a fee).
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; contact the Immigration Department.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions at https://www.health.gov.fj/.
Toll

Driving in Fiji

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, there are no toll roads in Fiji; roads are publicly funded and free to use.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Not applicable; no tolls exist. For road maintenance updates, visit the Fiji Roads Authority: https://www.fijiroads.org/.
  • Payment Methods: Not applicable.

Driving in Fiji

  • Drive on the left side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h
    • Rural roads: 80 km/h
    • Highways: 80 km/h (no major highways exist)
  • Road conditions vary; exercise caution on rural roads, which may be narrow, unpaved, or affected by weather.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license for stays over 3 months; short-term visitors can use a valid foreign license.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Fiji has no vignette or toll system; check road updates at https://www.fijiroads.org/.
  • Road Safety: Driving standards are improving, but remain vigilant for pedestrians, livestock, and wet conditions.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is less reliable outside urban areas; keep an updated physical map as a backup.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 911 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Fiji Currency

The official currency of Fiji is the Fijian Dollar (FJD).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 FJD
  • Coins: 5, 10, 20, 50 cents; 1, 2 FJD
  • Symbol: $ (sometimes written as FJ$ to distinguish from other dollar-based currencies)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, airports, and major hotels.
  • ATMs widely available in urban areas (e.g., Suva, Nadi) for direct FJD withdrawals.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas and small businesses.
  • Credit/debit cards accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Reserve Bank of Fiji website: https://www.rbf.gov.fj/.
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Fiji

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travelers in Fiji, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon and may lead to fines.
    • Smoking banned in indoor public spaces.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect village customs (e.g., dress modestly, remove hats, ask permission before entering).
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are legal, but same-sex marriage is not recognized; public displays of affection may attract attention.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites; always ask permission for photos of locals, especially in villages.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 2L of spirits or 4L of wine/beer | Tobacco: 250 cigarettes or 250g of tobacco.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over 10,000 FJD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, fresh food, and plant/animal products (strict biosecurity laws).
  • Counterfeit goods (subject to confiscation and fines).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access; some resorts may restrict adjacent areas, but public rights are upheld.

Key Resources

Fiji Travel Safety

Fiji is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travelers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Fiji.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like markets or Suva. Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Fiji is considered safe, with locals often welcoming; avoid isolated areas at night.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to narrow roads and unpredictable weather (e.g., flooding).
    • Avoid night driving in rural areas.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Tap water is safe in cities; use bottled water in rural areas.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travelers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, tetanus, COVID-19, typhoid.
    • Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use repellent for dengue and Zika (prevalent in wet seasons).
  • Altitude Sickness: Not applicable; Fiji’s highest peak is 1,324 meters with minimal risk.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like Oceania Hospitals in Suva offer higher standards; rural areas lack advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities; carry essential medications.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, especially for outer islands.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 911 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 911 | Fire: 911 | Police: 917.
  • Tourist Police: Contact local stations or Tourism Fiji: +679 672 2433.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural areas; check insurance coverage.
  • Hiking: Use guides for trails (e.g., Taveuni’s Lavena Coastal Walk).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect village protocols; bring a sevusevu (gift) if visiting.
  • Air Quality: Generally good; monitor cyclone season (Nov-Apr) updates.

Key Links

Flying to Fiji