Entry Requirements & Visas
Visa on Arrival for Most Travelers
Palau offers a free 30-day visa on arrival for citizens of over 100 countries, including the US, EU, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan. Simply present a valid passport and proof of onward travel at Koror Airport or seaports—no advance application needed.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from Palau, with at least one blank page for the entry stamp.
Children under 16 may need additional documentation if traveling without both parents; always carry certified birth certificates and parental consent forms to avoid issues at immigration.
Scan and store digital copies of your passport securely in case of loss during your tropical adventure.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of the US can stay up to one year without a visa, while most other visa-exempt nationalities get 30 days automatically upon arrival.
Countries like China, India, and Russia require pre-arranged visas; check the Palau Immigration website for the latest list to ensure smooth entry.
Overstay fines are steep at $100 per day, so plan your itinerary carefully to comply with limits.
Visa Applications
For nationalities requiring visas or longer stays, apply online through the Palau Immigration portal ($50 fee) with documents including a passport photo, itinerary, and proof of sufficient funds ($100/day minimum).
Processing typically takes 5-10 business days; expedited options are available for an extra $20 if your travel is urgent.
Business or work visas need sponsorship from a Palauan entity and additional paperwork like invitation letters.
Border Crossings
Most arrivals are via Palau International Airport in Koror, where immigration is efficient but expect questions about your accommodation and activities like diving.
Boat entries from nearby Micronesia require prior clearance; yachts must check in at the main port with health declarations for biosecurity.
COVID-era rules have eased, but temperature checks and health forms may still apply—download the Palau Entry app for digital submissions.
Travel Insurance
Insurance is strongly recommended, covering medical evacuations (essential for remote atolls), dive accidents, and trip delays due to weather.
Policies should include hyperbaric chamber coverage for decompression sickness; plans start at $10/day from dive-specialized providers like DAN (Divers Alert Network).
Without insurance, emergency flights to Manila or Guam can cost over $20,000—don't risk it in this isolated paradise.
Extensions Possible
Extend your 30-day stay by applying at the Bureau of Immigration in Koror before expiration ($50 fee for 30 more days, up to two extensions).
Provide proof of funds and a reason like ongoing dive certifications; approval isn't guaranteed but is common for tourists.
For stays beyond 90 days, consider a special permit for activities like volunteering, which requires additional endorsements from local authorities.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Palau uses the US Dollar (USD). 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 Koror by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially from Asia or the US West Coast hubs.
Consider multi-stop routes via Manila or Guam to cut costs further without sacrificing much time.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at family-run spots in Koror for fresh fish and taro meals under $15, avoiding resort markups that can double prices.
Local markets offer picnic supplies like tropical fruits and grilled skewers at half the cost of restaurants.
Opt for all-inclusive dive packages that include meals to bundle savings on food during multi-day outings.
Public Transport Passes
While limited, use shared minibuses between Koror and Peleliu for $5-10/trip; no formal passes, but group tours save on inter-island ferries.
Rent scooters for $20/day to explore Babeldaob independently, cutting taxi costs by 70%.
Combine with eco-passes for national parks that include boat access to Rock Islands for bundled value.
Free Attractions
Visit pristine beaches, WWII sites on Peleliu, and natural hot springs on Babeldaob, all accessible without fees for authentic, low-cost exploration.
Snorkel from shore at free spots like Long Beach, saving $50+ on guided trips while spotting marine life.
Hike the free Compact Road trails for panoramic views, pairing with self-guided birdwatching to extend your adventure economically.
Card vs Cash
Credit cards are accepted at resorts and dive shops, but carry USD cash for markets, small boats, and rural areas where ATMs are scarce.
Withdraw from Bank of Hawaii ATMs in Koror for no-fee access; avoid airport exchanges with poor rates.
Notify your bank of travel to Palau to prevent card blocks, and use contactless for quick resort payments.
Museum Passes
The Palau National Museum and Etpison Museum offer combo tickets for $15, covering cultural exhibits and artifacts—ideal for history buffs.
It pays for itself with entry to multiple sites; add the Belau National Museum pass for free re-entry during your stay.
Pair with free outdoor cultural villages like the Palau Visitor Center for a full immersion without extra costs.
Smart Packing for Palau
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack lightweight, quick-dry clothes like t-shirts, shorts, and cover-ups for humid tropical weather; include long sleeves for sun protection during boat trips.
Swimwear and rash guards are must-haves for daily snorkeling; opt for modest attire when visiting traditional villages to respect local customs.
A light rain poncho is useful year-round, as sudden showers are common even in the dry season.
Electronics
Bring a universal adapter for Type A/B plugs (US-style), waterproof phone case for underwater photos, and a solar charger for remote island stays.
Download offline maps of the Rock Islands and dive apps; a GoPro or action camera captures the vibrant reefs without bulk.
Power banks are essential for multi-day liveaboards where outlets are limited—aim for 20,000mAh capacity.
Health & Safety
Carry comprehensive travel insurance docs, a dive medical kit with motion sickness meds, and prescriptions for any chronic conditions.
Include reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+), insect repellent for mosquitoes, and antihistamines for jellyfish encounters in Ongeim'l Tketau.
A basic first-aid kit with bandages for coral cuts and antibiotic ointment is crucial, as medical facilities are basic outside Koror.
Travel Gear
Pack a waterproof daypack for island hopping, reusable reef-safe water bottle to stay hydrated, and a dry bag for electronics on boats.
Bring copies of dive certifications, passport, and a money belt for securing valuables during beach days.
A snorkel vest or noodle aids longer sessions without fatigue, and a dive logbook tracks your underwater adventures.
Footwear Strategy
Choose water shoes with grip for rocky entries and coral protection during shore dives; flip-flops suffice for resort paths and boat decks.
Hiking sandals like Tevas are ideal for trails on Babeldaob, offering ventilation in the heat while handling mud from rains.
Avoid heavy boots—Palau's terrain is mostly sandy or lagoon-based, so prioritize lightweight, fast-drying options.
Personal Care
Pack travel-sized biodegradable toiletries, high-SPF lip balm, and a wide-brim hat to combat intense UV exposure over water.
Include aloe vera gel for sunburn relief and eco-friendly bug spray; a compact towel microfiber dries quickly after swims.
For longer stays, bring hair ties and minimal makeup—saltwater and humidity make natural looks practical and low-maintenance.
When to Visit Palau
Dry Season (December-March)
Peak time for crystal-clear waters and calm seas, with temperatures averaging 27-30°C—perfect for world-class scuba diving at Blue Corner.
Fewer rains mean ideal conditions for kayaking Rock Islands and visiting Jellyfish Lake; expect higher crowds and prices at resorts.
Whale shark sightings peak here, making it a diver's dream despite the busier vibe.
Shoulder Season (April-May)
Transition to wetter weather brings fewer tourists and lower rates, with warm 28-31°C days still suitable for snorkeling and cultural tours.
Mantel rays are abundant in channels; enjoy uncrowded beaches and emerging wildflowers on outer atolls.
Short showers are manageable, offering a balanced mix of value and visibility for budget-conscious adventurers.
Wet Season (June-September)
Rainy but warm at 27-30°C, with dramatic storms that don't deter diving—visibility remains excellent at 30m+ for wreck explorations.
Cheaper accommodations and lush greenery enhance hiking in waterfalls; manta cleaning stations are active year-round.
Avoid if prone to seasickness, but it's prime for birdwatching and secluded island escapes with 50% off peak deals.
Late Wet/Transition (October-November)
Improving weather with occasional typhoons, temperatures 26-29°C—great for fishing charters and exploring Ngardmau Waterfall.
Fewer visitors mean personalized experiences; sea turtles nest on beaches, adding magical night sightings.
Rates drop as dry season approaches, ideal for extending stays with combined dive and cultural immersion.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: United States Dollar (USD). No exchange needed for US travelers. Cards accepted at major spots but cash essential for islands.
- Language: English and Palauan are official. Japanese and other Micronesian languages spoken; English suffices in tourist areas.
- Time Zone: Palau Time (PWT), UTC+9—no daylight saving
- Electricity: 120V, 60Hz. Type A/B plugs (same as US/Canada)
- Emergency Number: 110 for police, 111 for fire/ambulance, 912 for medical emergencies
- Tipping: Not customary in Palauan culture. Small gratuities appreciated for exceptional dive guides or service.
- Water: Tap water unsafe—use bottled or filtered. Resorts provide it; carry reusable for eco-friendliness.
- Pharmacies: Limited to Koror (e.g., Surangel Pharmacy). Stock up on meds before arrival for remote trips.