Funafuti Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Funafuti, the capital atoll of Tuvalu, welcomes international visitors with relatively straightforward entry requirements. As one of the world's smallest and most remote nations, Tuvalu operates a visa-on-arrival system for most nationalities, making it accessible to tourists, business travelers, and those visiting friends and family. The main point of entry is Funafuti International Airport, which receives limited international flights, primarily from Fiji and Kiribati. The immigration process in Funafuti is generally simple and efficient, though travelers should be prepared for basic facilities reflective of the nation's small size and remote location. All visitors must have a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds for their stay. Given Tuvalu's limited tourism infrastructure and infrequent flight schedules, careful advance planning is essential. Travelers should arrange accommodation before arrival and be aware that banking facilities and ATMs are extremely limited on the island. It's important to note that while Tuvalu's entry requirements are relatively relaxed, the country takes biosecurity and environmental protection seriously due to its fragile ecosystem. Visitors should be prepared for thorough customs inspections and should familiarize themselves with prohibited items before travel. As policies can change and given the limited consular representation worldwide, travelers should verify current requirements with the Tuvalu government or their nearest diplomatic mission well in advance of their journey.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Tuvalu operates a visa-on-arrival system for most nationalities, allowing tourists to obtain entry permission upon landing at Funafuti International Airport. The system is designed to facilitate tourism while maintaining border security.

Visa on Arrival

Initially granted for 1 month (30 days), extendable

Most nationalities can obtain a visa stamp upon arrival at Funafuti International Airport without prior application

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand All European Union member states Japan South Korea Singapore Malaysia Most Commonwealth countries Most Pacific Island nations

No fee is charged for the initial 30-day visa on arrival. Visitors must present a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity), confirmed onward ticket, proof of accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds. Extensions can be requested from the Immigration Department in Funafuti.

Visa Extension

Extensions typically granted in 1-month increments, up to 3-6 months total stay

Visitors wishing to stay beyond the initial 30-day period can apply for extensions

How to Apply: Apply at the Immigration Department in Vaiaku, Funafuti. Applications should be submitted at least one week before current visa expires. Requires completion of extension form, valid passport, proof of funds, and accommodation details.
Cost: Approximately AUD $50-100 per month extension (fees subject to change)

Overstaying without proper extension can result in fines and deportation. Given limited flight schedules, plan extensions well in advance to avoid complications.

Special Entry Requirements

Varies by purpose

Certain nationalities or purposes of visit may require advance clearance

How to Apply: Contact the Tuvalu Immigration Department or nearest Tuvalu diplomatic mission for pre-approval. This is rare but may apply to journalists, researchers, or nationals from countries without established diplomatic relations.

Working in Tuvalu requires a work permit obtained separately from the Labour Department. Missionary or religious work requires approval from relevant government departments.

Arrival Process

The entry process at Funafuti International Airport is straightforward but can be time-consuming due to limited staff and the thorough processing of all arriving passengers. Flights arrive infrequently (typically 2-3 times per week), so immigration officers process each passenger carefully.

Disembarkation

After landing, passengers disembark onto the tarmac and walk to the small terminal building. The airport has basic facilities with no jet bridges.

Health Screening

Health officials may conduct temperature checks or health questionnaires, particularly if there are active health concerns globally or regionally.

Immigration Control

Present your passport, completed arrival card (usually provided on the flight), return ticket, and accommodation details. Immigration officers will stamp your passport with a 30-day visitor permit. Be prepared to answer questions about your visit.

Baggage Claim

Collect your luggage from the basic baggage area. Flights are small, so baggage collection is relatively quick once bags are unloaded.

Customs Declaration

Pass through customs control where officers may inspect luggage, particularly for prohibited agricultural products, biosecurity risks, and restricted items. Complete a customs declaration form if required.

Exit and Ground Transportation

Exit the terminal to meet your accommodation provider or arrange transportation. The airport is small with limited taxi services, so pre-arranged pickup is recommended.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Tuvalu. Should have at least one blank page for entry stamp.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of confirmed departure from Tuvalu is mandatory. Given limited flight schedules, ensure your ticket is confirmed and valid.

Accommodation Confirmation

Hotel booking, guesthouse reservation, or letter of invitation from Tuvalu resident hosting you. Immigration may verify this information.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, credit cards, or cash to demonstrate ability to support yourself during your stay. Recommended minimum of AUD $100-150 per day.

Arrival/Departure Card

Completed immigration card, usually distributed on the flight. Have a pen ready as supplies at the airport may be limited.

Vaccination Certificate

Yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from or transiting through yellow fever endemic countries. Other vaccination records may be requested.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Bring Australian dollars (AUD) or Tuvaluan dollars as ATMs are unreliable and credit cards are rarely accepted. Exchange currency before arrival if possible.

Have printed copies of all documents as internet connectivity at the airport is limited and electronic devices may have dead batteries after the journey.

Dress modestly and respectfully. Tuvalu is a conservative society, and first impressions at immigration matter.

Be patient during processing. With limited staff and infrequent flights, immigration procedures can take 30-60 minutes even for small flights.

Pre-arrange airport pickup with your accommodation. The airport is about 2km from the main town, and taxi availability is limited.

Carry a pen to complete arrival forms. Basic supplies are limited at the small airport facility.

Pack any essential medications and supplies in carry-on luggage in case of baggage delays, as local availability is extremely limited.

Customs & Duty-Free

Tuvalu Customs Service enforces strict biosecurity and import controls to protect the fragile island ecosystem. All baggage is subject to inspection, and officers are particularly vigilant about agricultural products, seeds, plants, and animal products that could introduce pests or diseases. Cooperation and honesty during customs inspection will ensure a smooth entry process.

Alcohol

2 liters of spirits or wine, or 4 liters of beer

Must be 18 years or older. Excessive quantities may be subject to duty or confiscation.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco

Must be 18 years or older. Tobacco products are subject to health warnings and restrictions.

Currency

No limit on currency import/export, but amounts over AUD $10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared

Declaration forms available at customs. Both foreign currency and Tuvaluan dollars must be declared if exceeding threshold.

Gifts/Personal Goods

Personal effects and gifts up to AUD $400 value

Items clearly for personal use during stay are generally exempt. Commercial quantities or goods for resale require permits and may incur duties.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - Tuvalu has strict drug laws with severe penalties
Weapons and firearms - Require special government permits rarely granted to visitors
Pornographic materials - Prohibited due to cultural and religious values
Fresh fruits and vegetables - High biosecurity risk; all fresh produce must be declared
Live plants, seeds, and cuttings - Require quarantine permits from Agriculture Department
Live animals and birds - Require import permits and quarantine, rarely approved for tourists
Soil and sand - Biosecurity risk; prohibited without special permits
Meat and dairy products - Fresh or processed meat and dairy require permits and inspection
Counterfeit goods - Prohibited under intellectual property laws
Endangered species products - Including ivory, certain shells, and protected marine products

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - Allowed in reasonable quantities with prescription or doctor's letter. Must be in original packaging with labels.
Fishing equipment - Allowed but subject to inspection. Commercial fishing gear requires permits.
Drones and aerial photography equipment - Require permit from Civil Aviation Authority and government approval for operation.
Radio communication equipment - May require licensing from Telecommunications Department.
Processed food items - Must be declared and inspected. Some items may be confiscated if deemed biosecurity risks.
Wooden items and handicrafts - Must be inspected for pests and treated if necessary.
Alcohol beyond duty-free allowance - Subject to customs duty and excise taxes.

Health Requirements

Tuvalu has specific health entry requirements designed to protect public health on the islands. While routine vaccinations are generally sufficient for most travelers, certain requirements apply based on travel history and global health situations.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Required if arriving from or transiting through yellow fever endemic countries (Africa, South America). Certificate must be presented at immigration. Exemption applies if transit was less than 12 hours and passenger did not leave airport.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - Ensure up-to-date on routine vaccines including MMR, DPT, Polio, and seasonal influenza
Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to potential food and water risks
Hepatitis B - Recommended for travelers who may have intimate contact with locals or require medical treatment
Typhoid - Recommended for travelers eating outside major hotels and restaurants
Tetanus - Ensure booster is current, especially if engaging in outdoor activities
COVID-19 - Check current requirements as policies evolve; vaccination may be required or strongly recommended

Health Insurance

Comprehensive travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Tuvalu has very limited medical facilities, with only one hospital offering basic care. Serious medical emergencies require evacuation to Fiji, Australia, or New Zealand, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation by air ambulance and treatment abroad. Some policies exclude remote Pacific islands, so verify coverage explicitly includes Tuvalu.

Current Health Requirements: Health entry requirements can change rapidly based on global disease outbreaks, pandemics, or regional health concerns. Check the Tuvalu Ministry of Health website or contact your nearest Tuvalu diplomatic mission 2-4 weeks before travel for current COVID-19 testing, quarantine, or vaccination requirements. Some requirements may include pre-departure testing, health declarations, or proof of vaccination. Regional outbreaks of dengue fever or other mosquito-borne diseases may trigger additional health screening at entry.

🛡️

Protect Your Trip with Travel Insurance

Comprehensive coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and 24/7 emergency assistance. Many countries recommend or require travel insurance.

Get a Quote from World Nomads

Read our complete Funafuti Travel Insurance Guide →

Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Tuvalu Immigration Department

Office of the Prime Minister, Immigration Division, Vaiaku, Funafuti

For visa extensions, immigration inquiries, and official information. Limited phone and email connectivity; in-person visits most reliable.

Your Country's Embassy/High Commission

Nearest representation typically in Fiji (Suva) or New Zealand (Wellington)

Tuvalu has limited diplomatic missions. Check your government's travel advisory website for nearest consular assistance and register your travel with your embassy.

Emergency Services

Emergency number: 911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)

Emergency response capabilities are limited. For serious medical emergencies, evacuation will be necessary.

Princess Margaret Hospital

Main hospital in Funafuti providing basic medical care

Phone: +688 20480. Limited capabilities for serious conditions; medical evacuation may be required for major health issues.

Tuvalu Ministry of Foreign Affairs

For official government information and diplomatic inquiries

Private Mail Bag, Vaiaku, Funafuti, Tuvalu. Email and phone contact limited; communication may be slow.

Funafuti International Airport

For flight information and airport services

Very limited services and connectivity. Confirm flights through your airline (typically Fiji Airways) rather than airport directly.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own valid passport with 6-month validity. Minors (under 18) traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from non-traveling parent(s), including contact information and authorizing the child to travel. Birth certificates may be requested to verify relationships. Adoption papers should be carried if applicable. Solo minors or unaccompanied children require special arrangements and advance approval from immigration authorities. Family members should carry proof of relationship.

Traveling with Pets

Importing pets to Tuvalu is extremely difficult and generally discouraged for tourists. If absolutely necessary, contact the Tuvalu Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Livestock well in advance (minimum 3 months). Requirements include: import permit, health certificate from licensed veterinarian, proof of rabies vaccination (minimum 30 days before travel), microchip identification, quarantine period upon arrival (duration varies), and payment of quarantine fees. Dogs and cats require additional testing for diseases. Birds, reptiles, and exotic pets face severe restrictions or outright prohibition. Most visitors should make alternative arrangements for pets rather than attempting to bring them to Tuvalu.

Extended Stays

The initial 30-day tourist visa can be extended for up to 3-6 months total stay by applying at the Immigration Department in Funafuti. Extensions require: completed application form, valid passport, proof of sufficient funds (bank statements or sponsorship letter), accommodation confirmation, return ticket (may be flexible date), clean immigration record, and extension fee (approximately AUD $50-100 per month). Apply at least one week before current visa expires. For stays beyond 6 months, special permission from the Prime Minister's Office may be required with compelling justification. Working requires separate work permit from Labour Department. Overstaying without authorization results in fines (approximately AUD $50-100 per day) and potential deportation with future entry ban.

Business Travelers

Business visitors can enter on standard tourist visa-on-arrival but must declare business purpose to immigration. For short business trips (meetings, conferences, negotiations), tourist visa is usually sufficient. Actual employment or paid work requires work permit from Department of Labour obtained before commencing work. Business visitors should carry: invitation letter from Tuvalu business/organization, company registration documents, proof of business relationship, and evidence of sufficient funds. Extended business stays may require business visa with additional documentation. Engaging in business without proper authorization can result in deportation and ban from re-entry.

Journalists and Media

Journalists, filmmakers, and media professionals should obtain advance clearance from the Tuvalu Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before arrival. Requirements include: formal application letter stating purpose, detailed filming/reporting plan, proof of media credentials, equipment list, and sometimes government escort arrangements. Unauthorized journalism or filming, particularly of government facilities or sensitive locations, may result in deportation. Social media content creators should be respectful and seek permission when filming people or private property. Cultural sensitivity is essential given Tuvalu's small, close-knit community.

Researchers and Scientists

Research activities require advance approval from relevant government ministries (Environment, Fisheries, Education, etc.) depending on research focus. Applications should be submitted 2-3 months before travel and include: detailed research proposal, institutional affiliation, ethical approval, intended duration and locations, equipment list, and data sharing agreement. Environmental research may require special permits. Marine research requires approval from Fisheries Department. Archaeological or cultural research needs approval from relevant cultural authorities. Unauthorized research activities are prohibited and may result in deportation and confiscation of materials.