Get Your Vanuatu Visa Online
Fast visa processing for tourism, business, and adventure — explore the untouched South Pacific paradise
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Vanuatu Visa
Quick 4-step process — most travelers approved within 24-48 hours
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined application form with your travel details and personal information. Our intelligent validation system cross-checks every entry against Vanuatu Immigration requirements in real-time, ensuring your application is accurate and complete before you submit.
2
Upload your documents
Submit a clear scan of your passport bio page and a recent digital photograph meeting Vanuatu Immigration specifications. Our document review team verifies everything meets official standards before processing, minimizing delays and rejection risks.
3
We process your visa
Your verified application is submitted to Vanuatu Immigration through official channels. We continuously monitor the processing status and notify you immediately of any updates or decisions via email and SMS, keeping you informed throughout the process.
4
Receive your visa electronically
Your approved visa arrives electronically — print it or save to your phone. Board your flight to Vanuatu and present your visa at Bauerfield International Airport. Welcome to the land of fire, culture, and adventure!
Vanuatu Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Visa Exemption
Up to 30 days
Free entry for many nationalities on arrival
Tourist Visa
Up to 120 days
Extended stay for tourism and family visits
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
Short-term business activities and meetings
Work Permit
Varies by contract
Employment with Vanuatu-based employers
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 6+ months beyond intended stay
- Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- Hotel booking or accommodation confirmation
- Recent passport-sized photograph
- Travel insurance strongly recommended
Visa-Free Entry & Tourist Visas
Vanuatu offers a welcoming visa policy for visitors from around the world. Citizens of over 100 countries receive visa-free entry for 30 days upon arrival, including travelers from the United States, United Kingdom, European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, and most Pacific Island nations. This generous policy makes Vanuatu one of the most accessible South Pacific destinations.
30-Day Visa Exemption
Visa-exempt travelers receive a free 30-day entry permit stamped in their passport upon arrival. Requirements include: a passport valid for at least 6 months, confirmed return or onward ticket, proof of sufficient funds (approximately 5,000 VUV per day), and accommodation details. Immigration officers may request evidence of these at the border.
Tourist Visa Extensions
The initial 30-day permit can be extended multiple times up to a maximum of 120 days per year. Extensions are processed through the Vanuatu Immigration Services in Port Vila and require an application form, valid passport, proof of funds, accommodation confirmation, and an extension fee. Each extension is typically for 30 days and must be applied for before your current permit expires.
Nationalities Requiring Pre-Arrival Visas
Citizens of certain countries must obtain a visa before traveling to Vanuatu. This includes nationals of some Asian, African, and Middle Eastern countries. Visa applications can be submitted through Vanuatu diplomatic missions or authorized visa agencies.
Business & Work Visas
Business Visa
Foreign nationals visiting Vanuatu for business purposes such as meetings, negotiations, market research, or attending conferences can enter under the standard 30-day visa exemption if from an eligible country. Activities must be non-employment — you cannot receive payment from Vanuatu sources or engage in hands-on work. For longer business stays, a business visa allowing up to 90 days may be obtained through Immigration.
Work Permit Requirements
Foreign workers must obtain a Work Permit before commencing employment in Vanuatu. The process requires: a confirmed job offer from a Vanuatu-registered employer, evidence the position cannot be filled by a ni-Vanuatu citizen, relevant qualifications and experience, medical clearance, police clearance from your home country, and applicable fees. Work permits are typically valid for 1-3 years depending on the employment contract. Processing takes approximately 4-8 weeks.
Investor & Entrepreneur Visas
Vanuatu actively encourages foreign investment through its Development Support Program and investment visa pathways. Investors committing significant capital to Vanuatu businesses may qualify for residency and even citizenship through investment programs. The Vanuatu Investment Promotion Authority provides guidance on qualifying sectors including tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy.
Special Permits & Requirements
Residence Permits
Foreigners wishing to live in Vanuatu long-term can apply for a Residence Permit through Vanuatu Immigration. Requirements include proof of income or investment, police clearance, medical examination, and evidence of accommodation. Residence permits are issued for 1-3 years and are renewable. Retirees and digital nomads find Vanuatu's relaxed lifestyle and zero income tax particularly attractive.
Yacht & Cruise Arrivals
Vanuatu is a popular destination for yachts and cruises. Private vessels must clear customs and immigration at designated ports including Port Vila, Luganville, and several outer island locations. Crew and passengers receive the standard 30-day entry permit (visa-exempt nationalities) or must hold appropriate visas. Cruise ship passengers typically receive day passes for shore excursions with immigration processed on board.
Customs & Biosecurity
Vanuatu has strict biosecurity controls to protect its unique environment. Prohibited items include fresh fruits, vegetables, plants, and animal products. All luggage is X-rayed and biosecurity officers may inspect bags. Penalties for non-compliance are significant. Duty-free allowances include 250 cigarettes or 250g tobacco, and 1.5 liters of spirits or 2 liters of wine.
Entry Points & Processing Times
International Airports
Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) in Port Vila is Vanuatu's primary international gateway, handling flights from Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and New Caledonia. Modern immigration facilities ensure efficient processing for arriving passengers. Santo-Pekoa International Airport (SON) in Luganville on Espiritu Santo also receives some international flights and serves as the gateway to Vanuatu's second-largest island.
Processing Times
Visa-exempt entry is processed immediately upon arrival — simply present your passport and supporting documents at immigration. Tourist visa extensions take 3-5 working days and should be applied for before your current permit expires. Work permit applications require 4-8 weeks processing time and should be initiated well before your intended start date.
Travel Tips for Smooth Entry
• Arrival card: Complete the incoming passenger card distributed on your flight • Return ticket: Have your departure booking readily accessible • Accommodation: Know your first night's hotel name and address • Cash: Vanuatu Vatu available at airport ATMs; USD and AUD also widely accepted • Yellow fever: Certificate required if arriving from endemic areas • Customs declaration: Declare all food items, plant material, and animal products
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 |
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"Incredible experience at Mount Yasur! DoVisa confirmed the visa-free entry for Australians and what documents to bring. Arrived at Port Vila without any issues."
"Needed help understanding the 30-day visa exemption and extension process. Support team responded quickly with all the details I needed for my 2-month stay."
"Planning a diving trip to the SS President Coolidge wreck. DoVisa made the visa requirements crystal clear. Fantastic service!"
"Family holiday to Vanuatu sorted! The team explained entry requirements for all four of us including our kids. Smooth arrival at Bauerfield Airport."
"Used DoVisa for my work permit application. Process took about 6 weeks but communication was excellent throughout. Now working in Port Vila!"
"Bungee jumping at Pentecost Island was on my bucket list! DoVisa confirmed I could enter visa-free from the UK. Amazing adventure."
"Sailing through Vanuatu on our yacht. DoVisa helped clarify the customs and immigration procedures for each port. Very knowledgeable team!"
"Extended my tourist visa twice while exploring the islands. DoVisa guided me through the extension process at the Port Vila office."
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Vanuatu Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for Vanuatu?
Vanuatu offers several entry categories based on your purpose of visit. Visa exemption provides free 30-day entry for citizens of over 100 countries for tourism and short visits. Tourist visas allow extended stays up to 120 days total with extensions. Business visas cover short-term business activities up to 90 days. Work permits are required for employment with Vanuatu-based companies and are typically valid for 1-3 years. Residence permits allow long-term living in Vanuatu for retirees, investors, and others meeting eligibility criteria. Citizens of countries not on the visa-exempt list must obtain visas before travel through Vanuatu diplomatic missions.
Do I need a visa to visit Vanuatu?
Most travelers do not need to apply for a visa in advance. Vanuatu grants visa-free entry for 30 days to citizens of over 100 countries including the United States, United Kingdom, European Union nations, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, and most Pacific Island nations. You simply arrive with your passport (valid 6+ months), return ticket, proof of funds, and accommodation details, and receive your entry stamp at immigration. Citizens of some Asian, African, and Middle Eastern countries do require advance visas — check with your nearest Vanuatu diplomatic mission or use our visa checker tool to confirm requirements for your nationality.
How long can I stay in Vanuatu without a visa?
Citizens of visa-exempt countries receive a 30-day visitor permit upon arrival at no charge. This permit can be extended multiple times for a maximum total stay of 120 days within any 12-month period. Each extension is typically for 30 days and must be applied for at Vanuatu Immigration Services in Port Vila before your current permit expires. Extension fees apply and vary based on duration requested. If you wish to stay longer than 120 days, you would need to explore residence permit options or leave Vanuatu and return after the 12-month period resets.
What documents do I need to enter Vanuatu?
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 Vanuatu; Proof of sufficient funds for your stay (approximately 5,000 VUV per day is recommended — bank statements, credit cards, or cash); Accommodation details (hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter if staying with friends/family); Completed arrival card distributed on your flight. For work permits or extended visas, 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 Vanuatu visitor permit?
Yes, the initial 30-day visitor permit can be extended multiple times up to a maximum of 120 days total per 12-month period. To apply for an extension: visit Vanuatu Immigration Services in Port Vila before your current permit expires; bring your passport, completed extension application form, proof of continued financial support, accommodation confirmation, and the extension fee (varies by duration). Processing typically takes 3-5 working days. Extensions are granted at Immigration's discretion — having clear onward travel plans and sufficient funds improves approval chances. Plan ahead as extensions cannot be backdated if you overstay.
Can I work in Vanuatu 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 market research. You cannot: receive payment from Vanuatu 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 Vanuatu Immigration before starting work, which requires a job offer from a registered Vanuatu employer. Volunteer work at registered charitable organizations may be possible but should be confirmed with Immigration first.
How do I apply for a Vanuatu work permit?
Work permit applications require: Job offer from a Vanuatu-registered company; Labor market test evidence showing the position cannot be filled by a ni-Vanuatu citizen; 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 Vanuatu Immigration Services. Processing takes 4-8 weeks. Once approved, you can travel to Vanuatu and your permit is endorsed on arrival. Work permits are usually valid for the employment contract duration, typically 1-3 years, and may be renewed.
Do I need to print my Vanuatu visa?
For visa-free entry, there is no advance visa document — your permit is stamped directly in your passport upon arrival. For those requiring advance visas (work permits, extended visas, or visas for non-exempt nationalities), you will receive either a visa sticker in your passport from a Vanuatu diplomatic mission or an electronic approval letter. Electronic approvals 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 Vanuatu immigration, present your passport with the visa sticker or your printed approval letter for verification and entry stamp.
What if my Vanuatu visa application is rejected?
Visa rejections are relatively uncommon for Vanuatu but can occur. 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; some decisions can be appealed through administrative channels. 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.
What is the best time to visit Vanuatu?
Vanuatu enjoys a tropical climate year-round, making it a great destination anytime. Dry season (April-October): The most popular time to visit with lower humidity, less rainfall, and comfortable temperatures averaging 22-28°C. Ideal for diving, volcano treks, and island exploration. This is peak tourist season for resorts. Wet season (November-March): Warmer temperatures (25-32°C) with higher humidity and tropical rain showers, usually brief. Fewer tourists mean lower prices. Cyclone season runs November-April, though direct hits are infrequent. Best for diving: Year-round visibility is excellent; whale season is August-October. Land diving (Naghol): The famous Pentecost Island ritual occurs April-June only.
What are Vanuatu's main entry points?
Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) in Port Vila is Vanuatu's primary international gateway, located on Efate Island. It handles flights from Australia (Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne), New Zealand (Auckland), Fiji (Nadi), and New Caledonia (Noumea). Modern immigration facilities ensure efficient processing. Santo-Pekoa International Airport (SON) in Luganville on Espiritu Santo receives some international flights from Australia and serves the country's second-largest island. Cruise ship ports: Port Vila, Luganville, and Mystery Island welcome cruise passengers, with immigration clearance typically processed on board. Yacht arrivals: Clear customs and immigration at designated ports including Port Vila and Luganville.
Can I visit Mount Yasur volcano with a tourist visa?
Yes, visiting Mount Yasur on Tanna Island is one of Vanuatu's most popular tourist activities and is fully permitted under the standard visitor entry or visa exemption. Mount Yasur is one of the world's most accessible active volcanoes — you can walk right up to the crater rim and watch lava explosions from just meters away. Access requires a local guide (mandatory) and a small entry fee paid to local landowners. The volcano is reached via domestic flight from Port Vila to Tanna Island (about 45 minutes), followed by a drive to the volcano base. Tours run daily, with sunset visits offering the most spectacular views of glowing lava.
What vaccinations do I need for Vanuatu?
Vanuatu does not require any vaccinations for entry from most countries. However, travelers arriving from yellow fever endemic areas must show proof of yellow fever vaccination. Recommended vaccinations (consult your doctor): Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tetanus-diphtheria, and routine vaccinations should be up to date. Malaria: Present in Vanuatu, particularly on outer islands — prophylaxis is recommended, along with mosquito repellent and protective clothing. Dengue fever: Also present — use insect repellent. COVID-19: Requirements have largely been lifted but check current entry requirements before travel. Travel insurance: Strongly recommended to cover medical emergencies and evacuation if needed.
What currency is used in Vanuatu?
Vanuatu uses the Vanuatu Vatu (VUV). Budget guide: Budget travelers — 8,000-12,000 VUV per day; mid-range — 15,000-25,000 VUV per day; luxury — 30,000+ VUV per day. For immigration purposes, evidence of approximately 5,000 VUV per day satisfies the sufficient funds requirement. Accessing money: ATMs available in Port Vila and Luganville; major credit cards accepted at hotels, resorts, and larger restaurants; outer islands and local markets prefer cash. Also accepted: Australian dollars and US dollars are widely accepted, especially at tourist businesses. Currency exchange: Available at Bauerfield Airport, banks in Port Vila, and hotels.
Is Vanuatu safe for tourists?
Vanuatu is generally very safe for tourists and ni-Vanuatu are known for their friendly, welcoming nature. Safety tips: Exercise normal precautions with valuables; use hotel safes; be cautious swimming in unfamiliar waters due to currents and reef hazards; stay hydrated and use sun protection. Natural hazards: Vanuatu sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire — earthquakes and volcanic activity can occur; cyclone season is November-April; tsunamis are possible following major earthquakes. Health: Take malaria prophylaxis for outer island visits; drink bottled water outside resorts; have travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage. Emergency contacts: Police — 22222; Ambulance — 22100; Fire — 22333.
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