Palau

The Land of Corals
and Currents

Flag of Palau
Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

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

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from the US, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, and certain nations (e.g., Australia, Canada, EU, Japan, UK) can enter Palau with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa (visa on arrival for 30 days, extendable).
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations not eligible for visa-on-arrival must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Palau.
  • Special Entry Provisions:
    • Holders of valid, multiple-entry US visas (previously used in the US) can enter without an additional visa due to Palau’s Compact of Free Association with the US.
    • No automatic entry provisions exist for Schengen or UK visa/residence permit holders unless specified by bilateral agreements.

ID Card Entry

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

Visa Types

  • Visitor Visa: Allows entry and stay for 30 days (extendable to 90 days with approval). Issued on arrival for eligible countries or pre-arranged for others.
  • Long-Term Visa: For stays longer than 90 days (e.g., work or residency). Valid for one year, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-on-arrival stays are typically limited to 30 days (extendable to 90 days).
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; contact the Immigration Office.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions at https://www.health.gov.pw/.
Toll

Driving in Palau

Current Toll Roads

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

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Not applicable; no tolls exist. For road updates, visit the Palau Bureau of Public Works: https://www.palaugov.pw/.
  • Payment Methods: Not applicable.

Driving in Palau

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h (25 mph)
    • Rural roads: 64 km/h (40 mph)
    • Highways: No major highways; typically 64 km/h
  • Road conditions vary; exercise caution on unpaved roads, especially during rain, and watch for pedestrians and coral gravel.
  • 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: Palau has no vignette or toll system; check road conditions at https://www.palaugov.pw/.
  • Road Safety: Roads are basic, and safety standards are improving; remain vigilant for flooding and narrow bridges.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is unreliable outside Koror; keep an updated physical map as a backup.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 911 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Palau Currency

The official currency of Palau is the United States Dollar (USD).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 USD
  • Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 cents; 1 USD
  • Symbol: $ (sometimes written as US$ to distinguish from other dollar-based currencies)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks (e.g., Bank of Hawaii in Koror) and limited locations; scarce on outer islands.
  • ATMs available in Koror for direct USD withdrawals; rare elsewhere.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas and outer islands.
  • Credit/debit cards accepted in Koror at hotels and larger stores; rare elsewhere.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and outer islands.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards (though USD eliminates this within Palau).
  • For current exchange rates (for reference), visit the Federal Reserve website: https://www.federalreserve.gov/.
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Palau

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travelers in Palau, 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 some public spaces (e.g., government buildings).
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect Palauan customs (e.g., dress modestly, seek permission before entering private land).
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are legal, but same-sex marriage is not recognized; discretion is advised.
  • Photography: Restricted near government or military sites; 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 USD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

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

Luggage Issues

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

Complaints

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline; local customs may restrict some areas.

Key Resources

Palau Travel Safety

Palau 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 Palau.

Safety Overview

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

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Tap water is safe in Koror; use bottled water on outer islands.
    • 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; Palau’s highest point is 242 meters (Mount Ngerchelchuus).

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Belau National Hospital in Koror offers basic care; outer islands lack advanced facilities.
  • Pharmacies: Available in Koror; carry essential medications for remote areas.
  • 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: 911.
  • Tourist Assistance: Contact local police or Palau Visitors Authority: +680 488-1930.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a sturdy vehicle for rural areas; check insurance coverage.
  • Hiking: Use guides for trails (e.g., Ngardmau Waterfall).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect chiefly traditions; seek permission for land access.
  • Air Quality: Generally good; monitor ocean-related hazards (e.g., jellyfish).

Key Links

Flying to Palau