Nauru

The Land of Spirit
and Simplicity

Flag of Nauru
Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-Nauruan citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Nauru.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned stay in Nauru.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: No countries are fully visa-exempt; however, citizens from Australia, New Zealand, and certain Pacific nations may receive streamlined visa processing on arrival for tourism (up to 30 days).
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from all nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Nauru, typically arranged through a sponsor or Nauruan consulate.
  • Special Entry Provisions:
    • Holders of valid, multiple-entry visas from Australia or New Zealand (previously used in the issuing country) do not receive automatic exemptions but may use these to support visa applications.
    • No automatic entry provisions exist for Schengen, US, or UK visa/residence permit holders; a Nauruan visa is required.

ID Card Entry

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

Visa Types

  • Tourist Visa: Allows entry and stay for 30 days. Must be pre-arranged, typically single-entry.
  • Long-Term Visa: For stays longer than 30 days (e.g., work or residency). Valid for up to one year, allowing application for a residence permit; requires sponsorship.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Tourist visas are typically limited to 30 days.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; a sponsor (e.g., employer or resident) is often required.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions at https://www.health.gov.nr/.
Toll

Driving in Nauru

Current Toll Roads

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

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Not applicable; no tolls exist. For road updates, contact the Nauru Government: https://www.naurugov.nr/.
  • Payment Methods: Not applicable.

Driving in Nauru

  • Drive on the left side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants where fitted (many older vehicles lack them).
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 60 km/h (island-wide limit due to small size)
    • Highways: No highways; typically 60 km/h
  • Road conditions vary; exercise caution on narrow, unpaved roads and watch for pedestrians and phosphate dust.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license; short-term visitors can use a valid foreign license for up to 30 days.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Nauru has no vignette or toll system; check road conditions via local authorities or https://www.naurugov.nr/.
  • Road Safety: Roads are basic, and safety standards are minimal; remain vigilant for pedestrians and stray animals.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is unreliable due to limited infrastructure; keep an updated physical map as a backup (Nauru is small—21 km²).
  • Emergency Number: Dial 110 or 111 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Albanian Nauru

The official currency of Nauru is the Australian Dollar (AUD).

Key Information

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

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at the Bank of Nauru in Aiwo (limited hours); no ATMs or widespread banking outside the main district.
  • ATMs are not widely available; cash must be brought or withdrawn in advance.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, as card infrastructure is minimal.
  • Credit/debit cards accepted only at a few hotels and stores in Aiwo and Yaren; unreliable elsewhere.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans.
  • Carry sufficient cash for all purchases, as facilities are limited.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards (though AUD eliminates this within Nauru).
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Reserve Bank of Australia website: https://www.rba.gov.au/.
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Nauru

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travelers in Nauru, 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 government buildings and public indoor spaces.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect Nauruan customs (e.g., dress modestly, avoid disrupting community events).
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are technically illegal but rarely enforced; discretion is strongly advised.
  • Photography: Restricted near government buildings, phosphate facilities, or detention centers; ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L of spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over 10,000 AUD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products (e.g., coral).
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at Nauru International Airport.

Complaints

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline; some areas may be restricted due to private ownership or erosion.

Key Resources

Nauru Travel Safety

Nauru 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 Nauru.

Safety Overview

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

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Avoid tap water; drink bottled or boiled water.
    • 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 (prevalent in wet seasons).
  • Altitude Sickness: Not applicable; Nauru’s highest point is 65 meters (Command Ridge).

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Nauru General Hospital in Yaren offers basic care; advanced facilities are unavailable.
  • Pharmacies: Limited to Yaren; carry essential medications.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, as options are limited.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 110 (police) or 111 (ambulance/fire).
  • Ambulance: 111 | Fire: 111 | Police: 110.
  • Tourist Assistance: Contact local police or Nauru Government: +674 557-3133.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a sturdy vehicle for rough terrain; check insurance coverage.
  • Hiking: Limited trails; use caution around phosphate mining areas.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect community protocols; seek permission for land access.
  • Air Quality: Phosphate dust can affect air quality; monitor conditions locally.

Key Links

Flying to Nauru