Applying for a Vanuatu visa is a straightforward process once you understand the requirements, visa types, and how the online portal works. Whether you are planning a short holiday, relocating for work, or joining family in this South Pacific island nation, knowing the right steps will save you time and help you avoid common mistakes.
This guide walks you through every aspect of the Vanuatu visa application — from the initial eligibility check to submitting your documents on the official eVisa portal. We cover all visa categories, fees, required documents, and what happens after you apply.
How to Apply for a Vanuatu Visa
Vanuatu offers two main pathways for obtaining a visa, depending on your nationality:
1. Visa on Arrival (Exempt Countries)
If you are a citizen of an exempt country, you can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at Bauerfield International Airport in Port Vila or at other official entry points. You do not need to apply in advance. Simply present your valid passport, return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds to the immigration officer.
Exempt countries include most Commonwealth nations, EU member states, and select Pacific Island countries. Check the full list on the Vanuatu Immigration website.
2. Online eVisa Application (Non-Exempt Countries)
If your country is not on the exempt list, you must apply for your visa online through the official Vanuatu eVisa portal at evisa.gov.vu before traveling. This applies to all visa types — tourist, employment, student, business, and others.
The online application process involves creating an account, filling out the application form, uploading required documents, paying the visa fee, and waiting for approval. You must receive your visa approval before boarding your flight to Vanuatu.
For a complete overview of the eVisa system, see our guide to the Vanuatu eVisa.
Vanuatu Visa Application Requirements
Before starting your application, gather the following documents. Requirements vary slightly by visa type, but the core checklist applies to most categories:
General Requirements (All Visa Types)
- Valid passport — must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Vanuatu
- Completed application form — filled out and signed on the eVisa portal
- Passport-size photograph — recent, clear, meeting specification requirements
- Return ticket — or proof of onward travel from Vanuatu
- Proof of accommodation — hotel booking, invitation letter, or rental agreement
- Financial evidence — bank statements showing sufficient funds (minimum 60,000 VUV per month for tourist visa)
- Health declaration — answered as part of the application form
- Character declaration — answered as part of the application form
Additional Requirements by Visa Type
| Visa Type | Additional Documents |
|---|---|
| Tourist | Evidence of genuine tourist intent (hotel bookings, itinerary) |
| Employment | Work permit from Department of Labour, employment contract |
| Student | Letter of acceptance from a Vanuatu educational institution |
| Business Investor | Foreign Investment Approval Certificate (VFIPA), business registration (VFSC) |
| Close Family | Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate) |
For the full document checklist, visit our Vanuatu eVisa Requirements guide.
Step-by-Step: Online Vanuatu Visa Application
Follow these steps to complete your Vanuatu visa application on the official portal:
Step 1: Create an Account
Visit evisa.gov.vu and click “Register” or “Create Account.” You will need to provide your email address, create a password, and verify your email.
Step 2: Log In and Select Visa Type
After logging in, navigate to “New Application” and select the visa category that matches your purpose of travel:
- Tourist Visa
- Employment Visa
- Student Visa
- Business Investor Visa
- Close Family Visa
- Diplomatic Visa
- Development Support Visa
- Ni-Vanuatu Descent Visa
- Provisional Investor Visa
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Fill in all required fields accurately. This includes:
- Personal details (name, date of nationality, passport number)
- Travel details (intended dates, accommodation, purpose of visit)
- Health and character declarations
- Employment or study details (if applicable)
Double-check every entry before proceeding. Errors in passport numbers or dates of birth are a common reason for delays.
Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
Scan and upload all required documents. Accepted formats are typically PDF and JPEG. Ensure scans are clear and legible. Blurry or incomplete documents will delay processing.
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the applicable visa fee through the portal’s secure payment system. Fees are charged in Vanuatu Vatu (VUV). See the table below for current fees by visa type.
Step 6: Submit and Wait for Processing
After payment, submit your application. You will receive a confirmation email. Processing times vary by visa type — tourist visas are typically processed within 3-5 business days, while employment and investor visas may take longer.
You can track your application status by logging into your account on the eVisa portal.
For more on processing timelines, read our Vanuatu Visa Processing Time guide.
Vanuatu Visa Types and Fees
The table below lists all Vanuatu visa categories with their duration, entry type, fees, and key conditions:
| Visa Type | Duration | Entry | Fee (VUV) | Extension | Change of Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist | 120 days | Single | 5,150 | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Employment | 12 months | Multiple | 257,500 | Allowed | To investor visa only |
| Short-Term Employment | 1-4 months | Multiple | 51,500 | Not allowed | To investor visa only |
| Student (18+) | Study duration | Multiple | 15,450 | Allowed | Not allowed |
| Student (under 18) | Study duration | Multiple | 5,150 | Allowed | Not allowed |
| Business Investor | 3 years | Multiple | 206,000 | Allowed | Allowed |
| Provisional Investor | 1 year | Multiple | 51,500 | Allowed | To business investor only |
| Close Family | 12 months | Multiple | 61,800 | Allowed | Not allowed |
| Diplomatic | Director’s discretion | Multiple | Exempt | Allowed | Not allowed |
| Development Support | Up to 5 years | Multiple | 10,300 | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Ni-Vanuatu Descent | 12 months | Multiple | 20,600 | Allowed | Not allowed |
All fees are subject to change. Confirm current rates on the official eVisa portal before applying. For a detailed breakdown of costs, see our Vanuatu eVisa Fee guide.
Vanuatu Visa Application for US and UK Citizens
United States Citizens
US citizens are not exempt from Vanuatu visa requirements. You must apply for a visa online through the eVisa portal before traveling. The most common option is the tourist visa (5,150 VUV, 120 days).
US passport holders cannot obtain a visa on arrival. Ensure you complete your eVisa application well in advance of your travel date — at least 2-3 weeks is recommended to account for processing time.
United Kingdom Citizens
UK citizens are generally eligible for visa-free entry to Vanuatu for short tourist stays. However, if you plan to work, study, or stay longer than the exempt period, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa category through the eVisa portal.
Always verify your country’s current status on the exempt countries list before traveling, as policies can change.
After You Apply: Processing and Approval
Processing Times
Tourist visa applications are typically processed within 3-5 business days. Employment, student, and investor visas may take 2-4 weeks due to additional verification requirements.
During peak travel seasons (June-September and December-January), processing may take longer. Apply early to avoid delays.
Approval Notification
You will receive an email notification when your visa is approved. Log into your eVisa account to download and print your visa approval letter. Present this letter along with your passport to the airline at check-in and to immigration upon arrival in Vanuatu.
What If Your Application Is Denied?
If your application is denied, you will receive a notification explaining the reason. Common reasons for denial include:
- Incomplete or missing documents
- Insufficient financial evidence
- Passport validity less than 6 months
- Failure to meet character or health requirements
- Inconsistent information in the application
You may reapply after addressing the issues cited in the denial notice. For tips on avoiding rejection, see our Vanuatu Visa Extension guide for related advice on maintaining valid visa status.
Contact Information
For questions about your Vanuatu visa application, contact the Department of Immigration and Passport Services:
- Phone: +678 22354
- Email: [email protected]
- Office: Kumul Highway, Tamarama Building, Port Vila, Vanuatu
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Vanuatu time)
- Website: immigration.gov.vu
