The Vanuatu tourist visa allows stays of up to 120 days for leisure and social visits, costs VUV 5,150 (~$43 USD) for travelers from non-exempt countries, and can be obtained online through the official evisa.gov.vu portal or on arrival for visa-exempt nationalities. Whether you are planning to explore the 83 islands of this South Pacific archipelago or visit family and friends, understanding the tourist visa process ensures a smooth entry into Vanuatu.
For a complete overview of all visa types and the online application process, see our Vanuatu eVisa guide. If you need a detailed list of documents, read our Vanuatu eVisa requirements page.
What Is the Vanuatu Tourist Visa?
The Vanuatu tourist visa is a short-term entry authorization issued by the Vanuatu Department of Immigration and Passport Services. It is designed for travelers who intend to visit Vanuatu for tourism, leisure, or social visits such as seeing family and friends.
Key features of the tourist visa include:
- Maximum stay of 120 days (4 months)
- Single entry only
- No extension allowed
- No change of visa status permitted
- Employment, commercial, and business activities are strictly prohibited
The tourist visa is the most common visa type for vacationers heading to Vanuatu. The country attracts visitors with its coral reefs, active volcanoes, traditional kastom culture, and world-class diving sites across islands like Efate, Espiritu Santo, and Tanna.
Who Needs a Vanuatu Tourist Visa?
Vanuatu grants visa-free entry to citizens of many countries, while travelers from non-exempt nations must apply for a tourist visa in advance through the eVisa portal. The distinction between exempt and non-exempt nationalities determines how you enter the country.
Visa-Exempt Countries
Citizens of the following countries can obtain a tourist visa on arrival in Vanuatu without a prior application. They simply need to meet the standard entry criteria at the port of arrival:
- All European Union member states
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Japan
- South Korea
- Singapore
- Malaysia
- Fiji
- Samoa
- Tonga
- Solomon Islands
- Papua New Guinea
Travelers from exempt countries do not need to pay the VUV 5,150 visa fee. They receive their tourist visa stamp upon arrival at Bauerfield International Airport in Port Vila or other designated ports of entry.
Non-Exempt Countries
If your country is not on the exempt list, you must apply for a tourist visa online before traveling. The application is submitted through the official Vanuatu eVisa portal at evisa.gov.vu. You must receive approval before boarding your flight to Vanuatu.
For the complete fee breakdown across all visa categories, visit our Vanuatu eVisa fee guide.
Vanuatu Tourist Visa Requirements
All tourist visa applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the Vanuatu Department of Immigration and Passport Services. These requirements apply whether you are applying online or seeking a visa on arrival.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Vanuatu tourist visa, you must:
- Be outside Vanuatu at the time of application
- Not be a prohibited immigrant
- Pass a character test
- Be free from contagious diseases or mental conditions that could pose a risk to the Vanuatu community
- Have financial means to support yourself and any dependents during your stay
- Have a genuine intention to visit and depart Vanuatu within 120 days
- Possess a return ticket or proof of onward travel
Documents Required
Prepare the following documents before starting your application:
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid passport | Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay |
| Passport bio-data page scan | Certified copy of the information page |
| Passport-sized photograph | Recent, meeting standard photo requirements |
| Return or onward ticket | Proof of travel out of Vanuatu within 120 days |
| Proof of accommodation | Hotel booking or host address in Vanuatu |
| Financial proof | Bank statements showing at least VUV 60,000 per month |
| Application form | Completed and signed visitor application |
Additional Requirements for Minors
Applicants under 18 years of age must provide:
- Written consent from both parents or legal guardians
- If traveling without a parent or guardian and not part of an organized tour, an undertaking from a Vanuatu citizen or valid visa holder to provide accommodation, food, and general welfare during the stay
How to Apply for a Vanuatu Tourist Visa
The application process depends on whether you are from an exempt or non-exempt country.
For Visa-Exempt Travelers
If you hold a passport from a visa-exempt country, the process is straightforward:
- Book your flight to Vanuatu
- Prepare your passport, return ticket, and proof of accommodation
- Arrive at a designated port of entry
- Present your documents to immigration officers
- Receive your tourist visa stamp (valid for up to 120 days)
No online application or fee is required for visa-exempt travelers.
For Non-Exempt Travelers
If your country is not on the exempt list, follow these steps:
- Visit the official eVisa portal at evisa.gov.vu
- Create an account or log in
- Select “Tourist Visa” from the visa categories
- Complete the online application form with personal and travel details
- Upload all required documents (passport scan, photo, proof of funds, return ticket, accommodation booking)
- Pay the visa fee of VUV 5,150 (~$43 USD) using Visa or Mastercard
- Submit your application and await processing
- Receive your eVisa approval via email
- Print the approval and present it upon arrival in Vanuatu
Processing typically takes 3 to 5 business days. Apply at least two weeks before your planned departure to allow time for processing and any potential requests for additional documentation.
Vanuatu Tourist Visa Fee
The tourist visa fee for non-exempt nationalities is VUV 5,150 (approximately $43 USD). This fee is paid online during the application process through the eVisa portal.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Fee amount | VUV 5,150 (~$43 USD) |
| Currency | Vanuatu Vatu (VUV) |
| Payment method | Visa or Mastercard credit/debit card |
| Refundable | No, non-refundable once submitted |
| Exempt countries | No fee required |
Your credit card issuer handles the currency conversion automatically. American Express and other card networks may not be accepted, so verify your card type before applying.
Tourist Visa Conditions and Restrictions
Understanding the conditions attached to your tourist visa helps you avoid problems during your stay in Vanuatu.
What You Can Do
- Explore Vanuatu’s 83 islands for tourism and leisure
- Visit family and friends
- Participate in cultural activities and sightseeing
- Stay for up to 120 days
What You Cannot Do
- Engage in any form of employment or paid work
- Conduct business or commercial activities
- Extend your visa beyond the 120-day limit
- Change your visa status while in Vanuatu
- Overstay your visa (fines of approximately VUV 5,000 per day apply, plus potential detention and deportation)
Overstay Penalties
Overstaying your tourist visa in Vanuatu carries serious consequences. Penalties include fines of approximately VUV 5,000 per day of overstay, potential detention by immigration authorities, and deportation at your own expense. Always plan your departure before the 120-day limit expires.
Ports of Entry in Vanuatu
International travelers can enter Vanuatu through several designated ports of entry:
- Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) in Port Vila, Efate – the main international gateway
- Santo-Pekoa International Airport (SON) in Luganville, Espiritu Santo
- Designated seaports for cruise ship passengers and yacht arrivals
Most international flights arrive at Bauerfield Airport, with connections from Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, New Caledonia, and Solomon Islands.
Vanuatu Tourist Visa vs Other Visa Types
Vanuatu offers several visa categories beyond the tourist visa. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right visa for your trip.
| Visa Type | Duration | Fee (VUV) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | 120 days | 5,150 | Tourism and leisure |
| Transit Visa | 24 hours | 1,855 | Airport layover only |
| Visitor Visa | 30 days | 7,420 | Short visits, meetings |
| Employment Visa | 12 months | 257,500 | Work permit holders |
| Student Visa | Program duration | 15,450 | Study in Vanuatu |
If your trip involves business meetings or conferences rather than pure tourism, the visitor visa (VUV 7,420 for 30 days) may be more appropriate. For longer stays involving work or study, you will need a different visa category entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a US citizen need a visa to visit Vanuatu?
No, US citizens do not need to apply for a visa in advance. The United States is on Vanuatu’s visa-exempt list, so American travelers can obtain a tourist visa on arrival for stays of up to 120 days. You will need a valid passport with at least 6 months validity, a return ticket, and proof of accommodation.
Which countries are visa-free for Vanuatu?
Citizens of most European Union countries, the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and Papua New Guinea can enter Vanuatu without a prior visa application. They receive a tourist visa on arrival at no charge.
How much does a Vanuatu tourist visa cost?
The tourist visa costs VUV 5,150 (approximately $43 USD) for travelers from non-exempt countries. Payment is made online via Visa or Mastercard during the application process on the evisa.gov.vu portal. Travelers from visa-exempt countries do not pay any fee.
How long can I stay in Vanuatu on a tourist visa?
The tourist visa allows a maximum stay of 120 days (approximately 4 months). This visa cannot be extended, and you must depart Vanuatu before the 120-day period expires. Overstaying results in daily fines and potential deportation.
Can I work in Vanuatu on a tourist visa?
No, the tourist visa strictly prohibits any form of employment, commercial activity, or business operations. If you plan to work in Vanuatu, you need an employment visa (VUV 257,500) which requires a valid work permit from the Department of Labour and Employment Services.
How do I apply for a Vanuatu tourist visa online?
Visit the official eVisa portal at evisa.gov.vu, create an account, select “Tourist Visa,” fill in your details, upload required documents, pay the VUV 5,150 fee with Visa or Mastercard, and submit. Processing takes 3 to 5 business days. Apply at least two weeks before your trip.
Can I extend my Vanuatu tourist visa?
No, the Vanuatu tourist visa cannot be extended under any circumstances. The maximum stay is 120 days, and you must leave the country before the visa expires. If you need a longer stay, you must apply for a different visa category before your tourist visa expires.
What happens if I overstay my Vanuatu tourist visa?
Overstaying your tourist visa in Vanuatu results in fines of approximately VUV 5,000 per day, possible detention by immigration authorities, and deportation at your own expense. Overstaying can also result in being banned from future entry to Vanuatu.
Vanuatu Immigration Contact Information
For questions about the tourist visa or your application, contact the Vanuatu Department of Immigration and Passport Services:
- Phone: +678 22354
- Email: [email protected]
- Office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Vanuatu time)
- Official portal: evisa.gov.vu
- Department website: immigration.gov.vu
