Get Your Solomon Islands Visa Online
Fast visa processing for tourism, business, work, and study — discover the untouched paradise of Melanesia
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Solomon Islands Visa
Quick 4-step process — most travelers approved within 3-5 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our user-friendly application form with your travel details and personal information. Our smart validation system checks every entry against Solomon Islands Immigration requirements in real-time, ensuring your application is complete and accurate before submission.
2
Upload your documents
Submit a clear scan of your passport bio page and a recent digital photograph meeting Solomon Islands Immigration specifications. Our document review team verifies everything meets official standards, minimizing delays and ensuring smooth processing.
3
We process your visa
Your verified application is submitted to Solomon Islands Immigration through official channels. We monitor processing status continuously and notify you immediately of any updates or decisions via email and SMS, keeping you informed every step of the way.
4
Receive your visa electronically
Your approved visa arrives electronically — print it or save to your phone. Board your flight to the Solomon Islands and present your visa at Honiara International Airport. Welcome to the land of a thousand islands!
Solomon Islands Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Visitor Permit on Arrival
Up to 90 days
Free entry for many nationalities upon arrival
Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
For visitors from countries requiring advance approval
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For business meetings and commercial activities
Work Permit
Varies by contract
For employment with Solomon Islands companies
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 6+ months beyond entry date
- Confirmed return or onward ticket required
- Proof of sufficient funds for stay
- Accommodation booking or host invitation
- Recent passport-sized photograph
- Travel insurance strongly recommended
Visitor Permit on Arrival
The Solomon Islands welcomes visitors with a generous visa-on-arrival policy for citizens of many countries. This makes it easy to explore the remote archipelago known for its WWII history, world-class diving, and traditional Melanesian culture.
90-Day Visitor Permit
Citizens of Commonwealth countries (including United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and many others), European Union nations, the United States, Japan, South Korea, and several other countries receive a free 90-day visitor permit upon arrival. This permit is stamped directly into your passport at immigration and requires: valid passport (minimum 6 months validity), confirmed return or onward ticket, proof of sufficient funds, and accommodation details.
Visitor Permit Extensions
The initial 90-day permit can be extended at the Immigration Division in Honiara. Extensions are granted at Immigration's discretion and require evidence of continued financial support and accommodation. The maximum stay for visitors is typically limited, so those wishing to stay longer should consult with Immigration about appropriate visa categories.
Countries Requiring Advance Visas
Citizens of certain countries must obtain a visa before traveling to the Solomon Islands. Applications are processed through Solomon Islands diplomatic missions or authorized visa processing centers. Check with your nearest Solomon Islands embassy or high commission for specific requirements.
Work Permits & Business Visas
Work Permit Requirements
Foreign nationals seeking employment in the Solomon Islands must obtain a Work Permit before commencing work. The application process requires: a confirmed job offer from a Solomon Islands-registered company, evidence the position cannot be filled by a local citizen, relevant qualifications and experience documentation, medical clearance, police clearance from your home country, and the applicable fee. Work permits are typically valid for the duration of the employment contract, usually 1-2 years, and may be renewed. Processing takes approximately 4-8 weeks.
Business Visitor Category
Short-term business activities such as meetings, negotiations, market research, and attending trade shows are permitted under the standard 90-day visitor permit for visa-exempt nationalities. You cannot receive payment from Solomon Islands sources or engage in hands-on work. For extended business operations or employment, a work permit is required.
Investment Opportunities
The Solomon Islands encourages foreign investment in key sectors including tourism, forestry, fisheries, and agriculture. Investors should contact the Solomon Islands Investment Corporation for guidance on business registration, permits, and incentives available for qualifying investments.
Requirements & Special Considerations
Entry Documentation
All visitors to the Solomon Islands must present: Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your intended departure date; Return or onward ticket showing you will leave the Solomon Islands; Proof of sufficient funds for your stay (bank statement, credit cards, or cash); Accommodation details (hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter if staying with friends/family); Yellow fever certificate if arriving from an endemic area.
Health Requirements
While no vaccinations are mandatory for most travelers, yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from or transiting through yellow fever endemic countries. Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and ensuring routine vaccinations are up to date. Malaria is present in the Solomon Islands — consult your doctor about antimalarial prophylaxis before travel. Dengue fever is also present; use insect repellent and protective clothing.
Customs Regulations
The Solomon Islands has strict customs controls. Prohibited items include drugs, firearms, and certain food products. Declare all items of value, large amounts of currency, and any restricted goods. Biosecurity measures protect the islands' unique ecosystem — declare all plant material, food items, and animal products.
Entry Points & Processing Information
Ports of Entry
Honiara International Airport (HIR) is the Solomon Islands' main international gateway, located on Guadalcanal Island. The airport handles flights from Australia, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and Vanuatu. Immigration facilities are straightforward, and processing is generally efficient. Some international travelers also arrive via cruise ships at Honiara or other island ports, with immigration clearance conducted at the port of arrival.
Processing Times
Visitor permits on arrival are processed immediately at immigration — simply present your passport and supporting documents. Work permit applications take 4-8 weeks and should be initiated well before your intended start date. Tourist visa applications for non-exempt nationalities typically require 2-4 weeks for processing.
Practical Tips for Smooth Entry
• Arrival card: Complete the incoming passenger card distributed on your flight • Customs declaration: Declare all restricted items and goods over duty-free allowances • Return ticket: Have your return or onward booking readily accessible • Accommodation: Know your first night's hotel name and address in Honiara • Cash: Solomon Islands Dollars available at airport exchange bureau; ATMs limited outside Honiara • Connectivity: Mobile SIM cards available for purchase at the airport
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
1,000+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.6Customer rating
97%Approval rate
"Diving trip to the Solomon Islands was incredible! DoVisa confirmed I could get my visitor permit on arrival as an Australian. Everything went smoothly at Honiara airport."
"Visited Guadalcanal for WWII history research. The team helped me understand all the entry requirements. Only hiccup was limited ATMs outside Honiara which they warned me about."
"Work permit for a logging company took about 6 weeks. DoVisa kept me informed throughout the entire process. Now enjoying life in the islands!"
"Solo travel to Marovo Lagoon was a dream come true. Simple process for UK citizens - just showed up with my passport and got 90 days. DoVisa gave great pre-trip advice."
"Business meetings in Honiara went well. DoVisa clarified what activities were allowed under the visitor permit versus needing a work permit. Very helpful distinction."
"Wreck diving paradise! The support team answered all my questions about entry requirements and even gave tips about malaria prevention. Excellent service."
"Visited family in Gizo for three months. DoVisa confirmed the 90-day permit was plenty for my stay. Smooth entry at the airport."
"Remote islands require some planning. DoVisa helped with visa requirements and reminded me about yellow fever certificate since I was coming via Africa. Good attention to detail."
"Documentary filming project in the Solomon Islands. DoVisa guided us through the permit process for the entire crew. Professional and knowledgeable team!"
Solomon Islands Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for the Solomon Islands?
The Solomon Islands offers several entry categories depending on your purpose of visit. Visitor Permit on Arrival is available free of charge to citizens of many countries including Commonwealth nations, EU countries, USA, and Japan, allowing stays of up to 90 days for tourism, family visits, and short business activities. Tourist Visa is required for citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry and must be obtained before travel. Business Visa allows commercial activities and meetings. Work Permit is required for employment with Solomon Islands companies and typically valid for 1-2 years based on the employment contract. Transit Visa is available for travelers passing through to other destinations.
Do I need a visa to visit the Solomon Islands?
Many travelers do not need to apply for a visa in advance. The Solomon Islands grants a free 90-day visitor permit on arrival to citizens of Commonwealth countries (UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and others), European Union nations, the United States, Japan, South Korea, and several other countries. You simply arrive with your passport (valid 6+ months), return ticket, and proof of funds, and receive your entry stamp at immigration. Citizens of some countries do require advance visas — check with your nearest Solomon Islands embassy or high commission, or use our visa checker tool to confirm requirements for your nationality.
How long can I stay in the Solomon Islands without a visa?
Citizens of visa-exempt countries receive a 90-day visitor permit upon arrival. This permit may be extended at the Immigration Division in Honiara, though extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities. You will need to demonstrate continued financial support and accommodation arrangements. The maximum stay for visitors is limited, and those wishing to stay longer should explore appropriate visa categories such as work permits or investor visas. Always check current regulations with Solomon Islands Immigration before planning extended stays.
What documents do I need to enter the Solomon Islands?
For visa-free entry, you need: Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your intended departure date; Return or onward ticket showing you will leave the Solomon Islands; Proof of sufficient funds for your stay (bank statement, credit cards, or cash); Accommodation details (hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter if staying with hosts); Yellow fever certificate if arriving from an endemic area; Completed arrival card distributed on your flight. For work permits, additional documents include job offer letters, police clearances, medical certificates, and qualification evidence. Keep copies of all documents accessible during travel.
Can I extend my Solomon Islands visitor permit?
Yes, visitor permits can potentially be extended at the Immigration Division in Honiara. To apply for an extension: visit the Immigration office before your current permit expires; bring your passport, evidence of continued financial support, accommodation confirmation, and the extension fee. Extensions are granted at Immigration's discretion — having clear onward travel plans, sufficient funds, and a valid reason for extending improves approval chances. Processing times vary, so apply well in advance of your permit expiration date.
Can I work in the Solomon Islands with a tourist entry?
No, the visitor permit does not authorize any form of employment. Permitted activities include: tourism, visiting friends and family, attending conferences and events, short business meetings, and conducting market research. You cannot: receive payment from Solomon Islands sources, engage in hands-on work (even unpaid), run a business, or provide services for compensation. Violating these rules can result in deportation and future entry bans. For employment, you need a Work Permit issued by Solomon Islands Immigration before starting work, which requires a job offer from a registered employer.
How do I apply for a Solomon Islands work permit?
Work permit applications require: Job offer from a Solomon Islands-registered company; Labor market test evidence showing the position cannot be filled locally; Qualifications and relevant work experience documentation; Medical clearance certificate; Police clearance from your home country and any country where you lived more than 12 months; Passport with minimum 6 months validity; Application form and fee. Your employer typically initiates the application through the Immigration Division. Processing takes 4-8 weeks. Once approved, you can travel to the Solomon Islands and your permit is validated on arrival. Work permits are usually valid for 1-2 years and may be renewed.
Do I need to print my Solomon Islands visa?
For visitor permits on arrival, there is no advance visa document — your permit is stamped directly in your passport upon arrival at Honiara International Airport. For those requiring advance visas (work permits, tourist visas for non-exempt nationalities), you will receive either a visa sticker in your passport from a Solomon Islands embassy or an approval letter. Approval letters should be printed and carried with you, along with a digital copy on your phone as backup. Airlines may request to see your visa approval before boarding. At immigration, present your passport with the visa sticker or your printed approval letter for verification and entry stamp.
What vaccinations do I need for the Solomon Islands?
Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from or transiting through yellow fever endemic countries. No other vaccinations are mandatory, but recommended vaccinations (consult your doctor) include: Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tetanus-diphtheria, and ensuring routine vaccinations are up to date. Malaria is present in the Solomon Islands — consult your doctor about antimalarial prophylaxis before travel and take preventive measures including insect repellent and bed nets. Dengue fever is also present — use protective clothing and repellent. Travel insurance with medical coverage is strongly recommended as healthcare facilities are limited outside Honiara.
What if my Solomon Islands visa application is rejected?
Visa rejections can occur for various reasons. Common reasons include: incomplete documentation, insufficient funds evidence, concerns about genuine intent to leave, previous immigration violations, or failure to meet health/character requirements. If rejected: you will receive notification explaining the decision; you may reapply with stronger documentation addressing the concerns; for work permits, your employer can provide additional supporting evidence. DoVisa support: If your application is rejected due to an error in our processing, we provide full service fee refunds and complimentary reapplication assistance. To prevent rejection, ensure all documents are complete, accurate, and clearly demonstrate your purpose and ability to support yourself.
When is the best time to visit the Solomon Islands?
The Solomon Islands has a tropical climate year-round with two distinct seasons. Dry season (April-November): The most popular time to visit with lower rainfall, less humidity, and more comfortable conditions. This is ideal for diving, snorkeling, and island exploration. Wet season (December-March): Higher temperatures, more rainfall, and occasional tropical storms. Some remote areas may be harder to access. Diving visibility can be reduced but marine life remains abundant. Best months: June-September offer the most consistently pleasant weather. Diving: Excellent year-round with water temperatures averaging 27-29°C. WWII memorial events: August marks the anniversary of Guadalcanal landings with commemorative activities.
What are the Solomon Islands' main entry points?
Honiara International Airport (HIR) is the Solomon Islands' primary international gateway, located on Guadalcanal Island near the capital city. It handles flights from Brisbane and Cairns (Australia), Nadi (Fiji), Port Vila (Vanuatu), and Port Moresby (Papua New Guinea). Immigration facilities are straightforward with generally efficient processing. Cruise ship ports: Honiara and several outer islands receive cruise vessels, with immigration clearance conducted at the port. Yacht arrivals: Private vessels must clear customs and immigration at designated ports, primarily Honiara. The Solomon Islands is a popular stop for Pacific cruisers.
Is the Solomon Islands safe for tourists?
The Solomon Islands is generally safe for tourists, though normal precautions apply. Safety tips: Exercise standard precautions with valuables; use hotel safes for passports and cash; be aware of your surroundings in urban areas; respect local customs and traditional ownership of land and reefs. Health concerns: Malaria prevention is essential — take prophylaxis and use repellent; drink bottled or treated water; have comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage. Infrastructure: Roads and facilities are basic outside Honiara; inter-island travel is primarily by small aircraft or boat. Emergency contacts: Police — 999; Medical emergencies — contact your accommodation for local assistance. The National Referral Hospital is in Honiara.
What currency is used in the Solomon Islands?
The Solomon Islands uses the Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD). Accessing money: ATMs are available in Honiara but very limited elsewhere — bring sufficient cash in USD or AUD for outer island travel; credit cards accepted at major hotels and some Honiara businesses but rarely elsewhere; Bank South Pacific (BSP) and ANZ have branches in Honiara. Currency exchange: Available at Honiara airport and banks; Australian and US dollars are most easily exchanged. Budget considerations: The Solomon Islands can be expensive due to limited infrastructure and imported goods; budget approximately SBD 500-1,000 per day depending on travel style. Important tip: Always carry cash when traveling outside Honiara as electronic payments are not available.
Can I visit WWII sites in the Solomon Islands?
Yes, the Solomon Islands is renowned for its WWII history, particularly the Battle of Guadalcanal. Key sites: Guadalcanal American Memorial at Skyline Ridge; Bloody Ridge; Henderson Field (now Honiara International Airport); Red Beach landing site; numerous shipwrecks and aircraft wrecks. Iron Bottom Sound between Guadalcanal and Florida Islands contains dozens of warship wrecks and is a world-famous wreck diving destination. Visitor permits allow access to most sites; however, some require local guides or permission. Guided tours from Honiara provide historical context and safe access to sites. Memorial events are held annually in August commemorating the 1942 Guadalcanal campaign.
What is the diving like in the Solomon Islands?
The Solomon Islands offers world-class diving that remains relatively undiscovered. Highlights: WWII wrecks including planes, ships, and tanks in excellent condition; pristine coral reefs with exceptional biodiversity; Marovo Lagoon — the world's largest saltwater lagoon with countless dive sites; manta rays, sharks, and abundant marine life. Dive conditions: Water temperatures 27-29°C year-round; visibility typically 20-40 meters; suitable for all experience levels depending on site. Dive operators are based in Honiara, Gizo, and at several island resorts. Visa requirements: Standard visitor permit covers recreational diving; commercial dive work requires a work permit. Best areas: Western Province (Gizo area), Russell Islands, Florida Islands, and Guadalcanal coast.
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