Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: Enhanced eVisa System
Vanuatu has streamlined its eVisa process for faster approvals, allowing most travelers to apply online in under 24 hours for stays up to 30 days. The fee is around 8,000 VUV, and it's recommended to apply at least 72 hours before departure to ensure smooth entry at Bauerfield International Airport.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure from Vanuatu, with at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. Children under 18 require their own passport if traveling independently.
Always verify with your airline for any additional carrier-specific rules to avoid boarding issues.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of over 90 countries, including the US, EU nations, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, can enter visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism or business purposes.
Proof of onward travel and sufficient funds (around 1,000 VUV per day) may be requested upon arrival.
Visa Applications
For stays longer than 30 days or if your nationality requires it, apply for an eVisa online via the official Vanuatu Immigration portal (fee 8,000-15,000 VUV), including documents like a passport scan, itinerary, and accommodation proof.
Processing typically takes 1-3 business days, but apply early during peak seasons to account for potential delays.
Border Crossings
Entry is primarily via airports like Port Vila's Bauerfield or Espiritu Santo's Pekoa, where immigration is straightforward with quick processing times of 10-20 minutes.
Ferry arrivals from neighboring islands require the same visa checks; always carry your passport as land or sea borders are minimal but enforced.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended, covering medical evacuations (essential due to limited facilities), trip delays, and adventure activities like diving or hiking in remote areas.
Policies should include coverage for cyclone season risks; basic plans start at around 5,000 VUV for a week from international providers.
Extensions Possible
Short extensions up to 30 additional days can be applied for at the Immigration Office in Port Vila before your initial stay expires, requiring a fee of about 5,000 VUV and justification like extended tourism.
Overstays incur fines of 2,000 VUV per day, so plan ahead and submit applications at least one week in advance with supporting documents.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Vanuatu uses the Vatu (VUV). 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 Port Vila by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially for connections from Australia or Fiji.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at nakamals (community halls) for affordable laplap or grilled fish under 1,500 VUV, skipping resort restaurants to save up to 50% on food costs.
Fresh markets in Port Vila offer tropical fruits, vegetables, and ready-to-eat meals at bargain prices from local vendors.
Public Transport Passes
Opt for multi-day ferry passes between islands starting at 10,000 VUV, reducing inter-island travel costs by 40% compared to single tickets.
Minibus routes on Efate are cheap at 200-500 VUV per ride; no formal passes needed, but negotiate for group deals.
Free Attractions
Explore black sand beaches on Tanna, Mele Cascades waterfalls, or Yasur Volcano viewpoints, which are cost-free and provide authentic cultural immersion.
Village visits often include free welcomes with kastom dances if you bring small gifts like school supplies instead of entry fees.
Card vs Cash
Credit cards are accepted at major resorts and shops in Port Vila, but carry VUV cash for rural areas, markets, and small boats where ATMs are scarce.
Withdraw from bank ATMs for better rates than airport exchanges; notify your bank of travel to avoid card blocks.
Activity Bundles
Purchase combo tickets for diving sites or cultural tours at 15,000 VUV for multiple experiences, which can save 20-30% over individual bookings.
National park passes for areas like Mount Yasur are around 3,000 VUV and cover guided access, making it worthwhile for adventure seekers.
Smart Packing for Vanuatu
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack lightweight, quick-dry cotton or linen clothes for the tropical humidity, including long-sleeve shirts for sun protection and modest attire for village visits respecting local customs.
Swimwear, sarongs for beach cover-ups, and hats are must-haves; avoid dark colors to deter insects during evening kava ceremonies.
Electronics
Bring a universal adapter (Type I, Australian style), waterproof phone case for beach use, solar charger for remote islands, and a GoPro for underwater adventures.
Download offline maps of Efate and Santo, plus translation apps for Bislama phrases to enhance interactions with locals.
Health & Safety
Carry comprehensive travel insurance docs, a well-stocked first-aid kit with reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+), anti-malarial meds, and vaccinations proof for yellow fever if coming from endemic areas.
Include water purification tablets, mosquito nets for outer islands, and rehydration salts for the hot climate.
Travel Gear
Pack a lightweight daypack for island hikes, reusable water bottle with filter, dry bag for boat trips, and VUV in small notes for market bargaining.
Bring passport copies, a money belt for valuables, and eco-friendly reef shoes to protect against coral while snorkeling.
Footwear Strategy
Choose sturdy water shoes or sandals for volcanic trails on Tanna and rocky beaches, paired with lightweight hiking sneakers for longer treks to waterfalls.
Flip-flops suffice for resorts, but pack closed-toe options for boat rides to prevent slips on wet decks during rainy season.
Personal Care
Include biodegradable soap, shampoo, and insect repellent (DEET-based), plus aloe vera for sunburn relief and a compact rain poncho for sudden showers.
Travel-sized toiletries are ideal for multi-island hops; don't forget lip balm with SPF and a wide-brim hat for all-day sun exposure.
When to Visit Vanuatu
Dry Season Cool (April-June)
Mild temperatures of 22-26°C with low humidity make it perfect for hiking Mount Yasur and exploring Espiritu Santo's blue holes without excessive rain.
Fewer crowds allow for intimate village stays and optimal conditions for kitesurfing on Ifira Island.
Dry Season Warm (July-October)
Peak dry period with sunny days at 24-28°C, ideal for diving the SS President Coolidge wreck and beach-hopping on Hideaway Island.
Whale watching peaks in September; expect moderate crowds but vibrant festivals like the Naghol land diving on Pentecost Island.
Wet Season Start (November-December)
Transition with warmer 26-30°C temps and occasional showers, great for lush rainforest treks on Malekula and fewer tourists at Champagne Beach.
Lower prices on accommodations; enjoy cultural events but prepare for short rain bursts that keep the landscapes verdant.
Wet Season (January-March)
Hottest and wettest at 28-32°C with cyclone risks, but budget-friendly for indoor cultural experiences like custom carvings in Port Vila.
Snorkeling visibility remains good between rains; avoid if prone to seasickness, but it's low-season serenity for relaxation.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Vanuatu Vatu (VUV). ATMs are available in main towns; AUD is often accepted at resorts but exchange rates vary. Carry cash for rural areas.
- Language: Bislama (creole), English, and French are official. English is widely used in tourism; learn basic Bislama phrases like "halo" (hello) for rapport.
- Time Zone: Vanuatu Time (VUT), UTC+11. No daylight saving time.
- Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Type I plugs (two flat pins, Australian standard)
- Emergency Number: 112 for all services (police, medical, fire); alternatively, police 1325, medical 115, fire 110
- Tipping: Not customary in Vanuatu culture. A small gift or rounding up for exceptional service is appreciated but never expected.
- Water: Tap water is not always safe; use bottled or purified water, especially outside Port Vila. Boiling is recommended for remote areas.
- Pharmacies: Available in Port Vila and Luganville; stock up on essentials before island-hopping as supplies are limited elsewhere.