Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: Simplified Online Visa System
Nauru has streamlined its visa process with a fully digital application portal, allowing most travelers to apply online up to 30 days in advance for faster processing and reduced wait times at the airport. The fee remains $50 AUD, and approvals are typically granted within 24-48 hours for eligible nationalities.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Nauru, with at least two blank pages available for entry and exit stamps. This ensures compliance with international travel standards and avoids issues at immigration checkpoints.
Always verify your passport's condition, as damaged documents can lead to denied entry; renew early if necessary to prevent last-minute complications.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, and select Pacific Island nations (like Fiji and Papua New Guinea) can enter visa-free for stays up to 30 days, provided they have a valid passport and proof of onward travel.
For other nationalities, including EU, US, and UK citizens, visas are available on arrival or online, making entry straightforward for short visits focused on tourism or business.
Visa Applications
Apply for a visitor visa online via the official Nauru government portal ($50 AUD fee), submitting a passport scan, flight itinerary, accommodation details, and proof of sufficient funds (at least $100 AUD per day recommended).
Processing times are quick at 1-3 days, but apply at least one week ahead; on-arrival visas are available at Nauru International Airport for most travelers upon presentation of similar documents.
Border Crossings
As a remote island nation, all international arrivals occur via Nauru International Airport (INU), with no land borders; expect efficient processing but limited flight options primarily from Australia, Fiji, and Nauru Airlines routes.
Customs checks are thorough for prohibited items like certain foods and electronics; declare everything accurately to avoid fines up to $500 AUD.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended and sometimes required, covering medical evacuations (critical due to limited local healthcare), trip delays, and activities like snorkeling on the fringing reef.
Policies should include coverage for tropical illnesses and start from $10 AUD per day; providers like Allianz or World Nomads offer tailored plans for Pacific destinations.
Extensions Possible
Visa extensions for up to 90 days total can be requested at the Department of Immigration in Yaren district before your initial 30-day stay expires, with a fee of $25 AUD and proof of ongoing reasons like extended research or family visits.
Approvals are discretionary but common for legitimate cases; plan ahead as processing can take 3-5 days, and overstays incur fines of $20 AUD per day.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Nauru uses the Australian Dollar (AUD). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Nauru International Airport by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially on limited routes from Brisbane or Nadi.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at community cafes or markets for fresh fish and coconut dishes under AUD 15, avoiding imported restaurant markups to save up to 40% on meals.
Stock up on groceries from the Capitol Market for self-catering, where local produce is affordable and supports island sustainability.
Public Transport Passes
Use shared minibuses or taxis for island-wide travel at AUD 2-5 per ride, or arrange weekly passes through local operators to cut costs by 50%.
Walking or biking short distances is free and immerses you in Nauru's compact 21 sq km landscape.
Free Attractions
Explore the free Anibare Bay beaches, Buada Lagoon trails, and WWII relics, offering authentic eco-adventures without entry fees.
Many cultural sites like the Nauru Museum provide complimentary access on weekdays, enhancing your trip cost-effectively.
Card vs Cash
Cards are accepted at major hotels and the airport, but carry AUD cash for markets, taxis, and small vendors where fees can add up.
Use ATMs at the Bank of Nauru for withdrawals at interbank rates, avoiding airport exchanges with poor rates.
Activity Bundles
Opt for eco-tour packages that bundle snorkeling, birdwatching, and cultural visits for AUD 100-150 total, far cheaper than individual bookings.
These often include transport and meals, paying off after just two activities while promoting responsible tourism.
Smart Packing for Nauru
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack lightweight, breathable cotton clothes for the tropical heat, including quick-dry shirts, shorts, and swimwear for beach and reef activities.
Include modest cover-ups for cultural sites and a light rain jacket for sudden showers, prioritizing UV-protective fabrics given the intense sun.
Electronics
Bring a Type I adapter for Australian plugs, portable charger for remote outings, waterproof phone case, and offline maps via apps like Maps.me.
Pack a GoPro or underwater camera for snorkeling; solar chargers are useful due to inconsistent power in outer districts.
Health & Safety
Carry comprehensive insurance docs, a basic medical kit with reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+), antihistamines for jellyfish, and malaria prophylaxis if advised.
Include water purification tablets for remote hikes and insect repellent; vaccinations for hepatitis and typhoid are recommended for extended stays.
Travel Gear
Opt for a waterproof daypack for lagoon explorations, reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, snorkel mask/fins, and reef-safe toiletries.
Bring passport copies, a money pouch, and eco-friendly bags for beach cleanups, emphasizing sustainable packing for this fragile island.
Footwear Strategy
Choose water shoes or reef booties for rocky shores and snorkeling, paired with sturdy sandals for phosphate plateau trails and casual walks.
Avoid heavy boots; lightweight, ventilated options prevent blisters in the humid climate while protecting against coral cuts.
Personal Care
Pack high-SPF lip balm, aloe vera gel for sunburn relief, and biodegradable soap to minimize environmental impact on lagoons and reefs.
Travel-sized items include moisturizer for salty air and a hat for sun protection; limit quantities to respect Nauru's no-plastics policy.
When to Visit Nauru
Dry Season (May-November)
Optimal time with pleasant temperatures of 24-30°C, low humidity, and minimal rain, ideal for snorkeling at Anibare Bay and hiking the coastal trails.
Fewer crowds allow for intimate cultural exchanges; trade winds provide natural cooling for outdoor adventures like birdwatching at pleasant plateau sites.
Wet Season Peak (December-February)
Warmest period at 28-32°C with higher rainfall, but still viable for indoor cultural visits to the Nauru Museum and relaxed beach days between showers.
Lower visitor numbers mean better deals on accommodations; vibrant marine life thrives, enhancing diving opportunities despite occasional storms.
Transition (March-April)
Milder weather around 26-30°C with decreasing rains, perfect for exploring Buada Lagoon and participating in local fishing festivals.
Balanced humidity supports eco-tours; this shoulder period offers cost savings and lush greenery from recent rains, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Cooler Dry Months (September-November)
Comfortable 24-28°C with steady sunshine, great for WWII history tours and community events without the wet season's disruptions.
Whale migrations peak, providing spectacular sightings from shore; budget-friendly with stable flight schedules and vibrant local celebrations.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD). ATMs are limited; cards accepted at hotels but cash essential for daily use.
- Language: English and Nauruan are official. English is widely spoken, especially in tourism and government.
- Time Zone: Nauru Time (NRT), UTC+12
- Electricity: 240V, 50Hz. Type I plugs (Australian standard)
- Emergency Number: 110 for police, 111 for fire, 112 for ambulance
- Tipping: Not customary. Small gratuities appreciated for exceptional service in remote areas
- Water: Bottled water recommended; tap water is desalinated but not always potable in all districts
- Pharmacies: Limited; main ones in Yaren district. Stock up on essentials before arrival