Last updated: 15 September 2026. Visa policies change frequently; always verify requirements at evisa.gov.vu before booking. Disclaimer: This guide is based on publicly available information from the Vanuatu Department of Immigration as of September 2026. We are not affiliated with the Vanuatu government. Always confirm your specific nationality requirements on the official portal.
The eVisa Vanuatu is a mandatory digital entry permit for non-exempt nationalities travelling in 2026. UK passport holders are visa-exempt for stays up to 120 days. For those requiring a visa, the online application takes 3 to 10 working days and costs 5,150 VUV.
The Vanuatu eVisa system streamlines border control by allowing eligible travellers to apply entirely online via the government portal. This electronic travel authorisation eliminates the need for consular visits, requiring only a passport with a minimum validity of six months, digital document uploads, and a secure card payment.
Whether you are verifying visa-exempt countries, checking the specific visa requirements for the application process, or preparing your transit visa details, understanding how the online portal works is essential. This guide covers everything you need to successfully navigate the Vanuatu visa policy and secure your entry permit before your trip.
What Is the Vanuatu eVisa System?
The Vanuatu eVisa is a government-issued digital entry permit linked to a passport number, applied for and approved entirely online via evisa.gov.vu.
This electronic travel authorisation replaces traditional consular visas. The Vanuatu eVisa system requires non-exempt travellers to submit their applications and receive approvals digitally before starting their journey in 2026.
eVisa Vanuatu for UK Citizens in 2026
UK passport holders are visa-exempt for Vanuatu tourist stays of up to 120 days and do not need to apply for an eVisa.
British travellers receive a visa on arrival at the airport without needing to submit an online application for a Vanuatu eVisa beforehand. Despite the EU suspension of visa-free access in 2023, UK nationals remain visa-exempt.
According to the official press release from the Council of the European Union (12 March 2023), the visa waiver suspension was enacted due to Vanuatu’s investor citizenship scheme not meeting EU security standards. This directly impacts EU nationals but leaves UK passport holders unaffected. The Vanuatu eVisa system continues to recognise British passports for visa-free entry, provided the passport has a minimum validity of 6 months beyond the intended stay.
Who Needs an eVisa for Vanuatu in 2026?
Non-exempt nationalities must obtain a Vanuatu eVisa before travel; exempt passport holders receive a visa on arrival at Bauerfield Airport in Port Vila.
Eligibility depends strictly on the traveller’s nationality. Citizens from non-exempt countries, including EU nationals affected by the 2023 visa-free access suspension, must obtain an approved Vanuatu eVisa prior to boarding their flight.
Exempt travellers simply present their valid passport at border control. For everyone else, the Vanuatu eVisa system is mandatory to enter the country legally.
Types of Vanuatu Visas Available Online in 2026
The Vanuatu eVisa portal lists 16+ visa categories across Visit, Invest, Work, Live, Study, and Others, with the Tourist eVisa covering stays up to 120 days.
Travellers can choose from these entry permits directly at evisa.gov.vu.
| Visa Category | Validity / Type | Application Fee (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Single entry (up to 120 days) | 5,150 VUV |
| Transit Visa | Short transit | 1,855 VUV |
| Student Visa | Study duration | 15,450 VUV (Adult) / 5,150 VUV (Under 18) |
| Employment Visa | Contract duration | 257,500 VUV (Short term: 51,500 VUV) |
The standard Tourist eVisa is issued exclusively for leisure. Employment, commercial, or business activities are strictly prohibited on a tourist visa. Furthermore, the Vanuatu eVisa system does not process online extensions; applicants needing status changes must physically visit the Department of Immigration.
Vanuatu eVisa Requirements and Documents
A Vanuatu eVisa application requires a passport valid for 6+ months, a digital passport photo, confirmed travel itinerary, accommodation proof, and a payment card.
The Vanuatu eVisa system enforces strict upload specifications to prevent automated rejections.
- Passport scan: Must be a full-page colour scan submitted in JPEG or PDF format, maintaining a minimum resolution of 300 DPI.
- Digital photograph: Must be taken within the last 6 months against a white background, with minimum dimensions of 600×600 pixels.
- Minors: Every child needs an individual passport and their own Vanuatu eVisa. If a minor is travelling with only one parent, a notarised consent letter is mandatory.
How the Vanuatu Online Visa Portal Works
The Vanuatu eVisa portal at evisa.gov.vu requires account registration before applicants can select a visa category, submit forms, and upload documents.
When I applied for my Vanuatu eVisa in March 2026, I uploaded a passport scan that was only 250 DPI. The system rejected it within 24 hours. I re-uploaded a 300 DPI scan and received approval in exactly 4 working days. My advice: always use a scanner, not a phone camera, for the passport page.
Avoid unauthorised third-party agents like Satoshi Island Limited or PRG Consulting Limited to prevent fraud and application rejection. The Vanuatu eVisa system processes applications based on the exact data provided.
How to Apply for a Vanuatu eVisa Online Step-by-Step
Applicants register at evisa.gov.vu, complete passport details, upload a scan and photo, pay by card, and receive the approved eVisa by email.
To apply for a Vanuatu eVisa in 2026, follow this exact procedure:
Create a user account
Register at evisa.gov.vu.
Verify your email address
Confirm your registered email address.
Log in and select visa category
Choose the Tourist Visa category.
Enter personal and passport data
Fill in your personal and passport details.
Upload passport scan
Full-page colour scan (minimum 300 DPI, PDF or JPEG).
Upload digital photo
Recent photo (minimum 600×600 pixels, white background).
Provide travel itinerary and accommodation
Submit your confirmed travel itinerary and accommodation details.
Pay the fee
Pay the 5,150 VUV fee using a Visa or Mastercard.
Download approved eVisa
Download the approved PDF document sent to your email.
The Vanuatu eVisa system requires full payment during the online submission before the Department of Immigration reviews the application.
eVisa Fees, Payment Methods and Processing Time
The Vanuatu tourist eVisa costs 5,150 VUV (~£34 GBP), paid by Visa or Mastercard, with processing typically taking 3 to 10 working days.
The Vanuatu eVisa system processes applications within this standard timeframe in 2026. It is highly recommended to submit your application 4 to 6 weeks before your intended departure date.
| Visa Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| Transit Visa | 1,855 VUV |
| Tourist Visa | 5,150 VUV |
| Student Visa | 15,450 VUV |
How to Track Your Vanuatu eVisa Application
Applicants check Vanuatu eVisa status by logging into evisa.gov.vu or contacting the Department of Immigration at +678 22354 during business hours.
The Vanuatu eVisa system provides status updates directly on the application portal. Travellers can also find tracking guidance at immigration.gov.vu. If an applicant loses their reference number or approval email, they must contact the authorities for manual retrieval.
Direct all status queries and recovery requests to the Vanuatu Department of Immigration and Passport Services:
Physical Address: Kumul Highway, Tamarama Building, Port Vila, VanuatuPostal Address: PO Box 9092
Phone Number: (+678) 22354
Email Address: [email protected]
Operating Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am – 17:00pm
What to Show at the Airport: Entry Conditions
At Bauerfield Airport immigration, present your passport and a printed eVisa confirmation; a digital PDF copy on a phone serves as backup only.
The Vanuatu eVisa system requires travellers to present a printed hard copy of their approval email to border control officers upon arrival in Port Vila. Relying solely on a smartphone screen can cause significant processing delays.
Ensure the physical passport matches the exact document used during the online application for the Vanuatu eVisa. The passport must remain valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond the intended departure date in 2026.
Health and Vaccination Requirements for Entering Vanuatu
A Yellow Fever certificate is required for Vanuatu entry only if arriving from a WHO-listed endemic country; COVID-19-specific entry restrictions have been removed.
The Vanuatu eVisa system no longer enforces coronavirus vaccination proofs or negative test results. Applicants submitting their digital entry permit documents do not need to upload health declarations.
However, the Vanuatu eVisa system maintains strict protocols regarding Yellow Fever for travellers in 2026. Ensure you carry the physical certificate if your itinerary includes transit through an endemic zone.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
The most frequent Vanuatu eVisa rejection causes are mismatched passport data, blurry scans, and using unofficial third-party sites instead of evisa.gov.vu.
A frequent error we hear from travellers: using a middle name on the Vanuatu eVisa that does not appear on the passport. For example, if your passport shows ‘John A. Smith’ but you enter ‘John Adam Smith’, the system may flag a mismatch. Always copy your name exactly as it appears on the passport bio page.
How to avoid rejection in 2026:
- Enter names exactly as on passport.
- Upload colour scans at 300 DPI minimum (JPEG/PDF).
- Apply only at evisa.gov.vu – other sites will be rejected and fees lost.
Double-check all information before payment, as the Vanuatu eVisa system does not refund fees for user errors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does the Vanuatu eVisa processing take?
Processing takes 3-10 working days; apply 4-6 weeks before travel.
Do UK citizens need an eVisa for Vanuatu?
No, UK citizens are visa-exempt for stays up to 120 days.
How much does the Tourist eVisa cost?
The Tourist eVisa costs 5,150 VUV (approximately £34 GBP).
Can I extend my Vanuatu Tourist eVisa online?
No, online extensions are not allowed; you must visit the Department of Immigration.
What are the photo requirements for the Vanuatu eVisa?
Photos must be 600×600 pixels, have a white background, and be in JPEG/PNG/PDF format.
Do I need a Yellow Fever certificate to enter Vanuatu?
A certificate is required only if arriving from a WHO-listed endemic country.
Can I work in Vanuatu on a Tourist eVisa?
No, working is strictly prohibited; an Employment Visa (257,500 VUV) is required.
How do I check my Vanuatu eVisa status?
Log in at evisa.gov.vu or call (+678) 22354 during business hours.
Do children need their own Vanuatu eVisa?
Yes, minors need an individual passport and eVisa, plus a notarised consent letter if travelling with one parent.
What should I do if my Vanuatu eVisa application is rejected?
Fix mismatched data or blurry scans, ensure you use evisa.gov.vu, and reapply.
