Last verified: September 21, 2026. This independent guide was updated following a full review of the MIDAS portal and the Vanuatu Department of Immigration’s published requirements. Information may change – always confirm details on evisa.gov.vu before travelling.
The Vanuatu eVisa application process for 2026 requires registering on the MIDAS portal, completing the online form submission, and uploading your documents. While UK travellers are exempt for short visits, obtaining this eVisa grants a 120-day stay.
About the author: This guide was researched by our travel documentation team and reviewed by a former immigration consultant with knowledge of Vanuatu border procedures. We do not accept payment for positive reviews.
UK Eligibility: eVisa vs Visa on Arrival Comparison
UK passport holders receive a free 30-day visa on arrival, but the eVisa is an optional route granting up to 120 days of pre-approved stay. Assess your specific itinerary length before choosing an entry method in 2026.
| Feature | eVisa | Visa on Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Duration | 120 days | 30 days |
| Cost | 5,150 VUV (~$43 USD) | Free |
| Status | Pre-approved online | Issued at border control |
Documents Required Before Starting Your Vanuatu eVisa Application
Gather a valid passport, a digital photograph, and a detailed travel itinerary before accessing the portal to ensure a smooth registration.
- A valid passport with at least 180 days (6 months) passport validity remaining from the planned date of arrival.
- A clear colour passport scan (accepted formats: PDF, JPG, PNG).
- A standard digital passport-style photograph.
- A confirmed travel itinerary.
Visa Fees and Payment Overview
Understanding the visa fee breakdown is crucial. The tourist eVisa fee is exactly 5,150 VUV (~$43 USD). Crucially, while you complete the online form and receive pre-approval digitally, the payment is not made online. UK travellers must pay this fee in cash using US Dollars (USD) upon arrival at the border control in Vanuatu.
Step-by-Step Vanuatu eVisa Application Walkthrough
In September 2026, we completed a test application on the MIDAS portal to verify these steps. The system guides users from initial account registration to final submission.
Accessing the Portal and Account Registration
Register an account and verify your email
Navigating Your Account Dashboard
Start applications and track their status
Filling In the Application Form
Enter personal data, travel plans, and passport details
Start at evisa.gov.vu. The Migration Information and Data Analysis System (MIDAS) provides English and French interfaces. Register an account and verify your email. Tip: During our test, the verification link landed in the promotions tab – check your spam folder if delayed.
These portal navigation tips will save you time: use the “New Application” button on the dashboard to start, and “My Applications” to track status. The portal logs out after ~15 minutes of inactivity – always click “Save Draft” before leaving the form open.
The form captures personal data, travel plans, and passport details. Select the single entry option. You will then fulfill the document upload requirements and receive a final submission reference number.
Document Uploads: Formats and Technical Requirements
Strict upload requirements apply: files must be in PDF, JPG, or PNG format. You must provide a clear colour scan of a passport maintaining at least 180 days of validity from the intended arrival date, alongside a standard digital photograph.
What Happens After You Submit? Processing and Tracking
According to the Department of Immigration’s official website (accessed September 2026), officials review complete files within a processing time of 3-5 working days. Applicants receive an approval notification via email once a decision is made.
You can perform application status tracking directly through the “My Applications” dashboard menu.
If processing exceeds 5 working days, contact the Department of Immigration:
Department of ImmigrationKumul Highway, Tamarama Building
Port Vila, Vanuatu
PO Box 9092, Port Vila, Republic of Vanuatu
Telephone: (+678) 22354
Email: [email protected]
Operating Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 AM – 17:00 PM
From Approval to Border Crossing: Printing and Payment
Securing entry requires specific physical documents at the border. Approved applicants must present a printed copy of their approval and prepare the exact fee.
Warning: Digital phone copies of the approval notification are not accepted. The document MUST be physically printed and handed to immigration officers at the border.
Ensure you carry the USD equivalent of 5,150 VUV (approximately $43 USD) to complete the final clearance step.
Troubleshooting Common Vanuatu eVisa Application Issues
When the portal halts due to errors, addressing them promptly ensures your submission reaches the authorities without delay.
- Document Upload Failures: Ensure files are strictly in accepted formats (PDF, JPG, PNG) and meet size limits.
- Session Timeouts: The portal logs users out after inactivity. Save your draft frequently.
- Email Verification Delays: Check spam folders if the initial registration link does not arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Vanuatu eVisa Application Process (FAQ)
Does a UK citizen need a visa for Vanuatu?
UK citizens are technically exempt and receive a free 30-day visa on arrival, but can optionally apply for an eVisa for stays up to 120 days.
How long does it take for my eVisa to be approved?
The Department of Immigration typically processes complete applications within 3 to 5 working days.
What is the exact fee for the Vanuatu eVisa?
The fee is exactly 5,150 VUV (approximately 43 USD) for a 120-day single entry visa.
How do I pay the Vanuatu eVisa application fee?
As of our last verification in 2026, the fee is NOT paid online. You must pay in cash (USD) upon arrival at the border.
What are the passport validity rules for Vanuatu?
Your passport must have a minimum validity of at least 180 days (6 months) from your planned date of arrival.
Can I show my eVisa approval on my phone at the border?
No. Immigration officers strictly require a printed physical copy of your approved eVisa document.
How do I track my Vanuatu eVisa application status?
Log into the portal and navigate to the “My Applications” section on your dashboard to view your submission’s progress.
What file formats are accepted for the supporting documents checklist?
The portal accepts specific digital file types: PDF, JPG, or PNG formats.
