Last updated: March 2026. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify requirements directly with the Vanuatu Department of Immigration.
1. Does Vanuatu Offer a Business eVisa – and Do UK Citizens Need One?
Vanuatu does not offer a standalone Business eVisa; UK citizens must apply for a traditional paper-based Vanuatu Business Visa (20,000 VUV single entry, passport valid 6 months).
While UK citizens receive a 120-day visa-free entry for tourism, this exemption strictly prohibits commercial work. The portal at evisa.gov.vu does not process commercial applications. Therefore, securing a Vanuatu Business Visa is mandatory for UK professionals. Meeting Vanuatu Business eVisa requirements means applying via the traditional paper route before arrival.
2. Vanuatu Business Visa Types, Fees & Eligibility Criteria in 2026
Vanuatu offers a Business Single Entry Visa (valid 3 months, 20,000 VUV) and a Business Multiple Entry Visa (valid 10 months, 35,000 VUV), requiring a valid passport and proof of funds.
Single Entry: 3 months; Multiple Entry: 10 months. Both require passport validity of 6+ months beyond departure. To meet Vanuatu Business eVisa requirements, applicants must also pass a character test, provide an onward ticket, and show sufficient funds (approx. 40,000 VUV per month).
Fees for the Vanuatu Business Visa are payable directly to the government cashier; online payment is unavailable.
| Visa Type | Validity | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Business single entry | 3 months | 20,000 VUV |
| Business multiple entry | 10 months | 35,000 VUV |
3. Required Documents for a Vanuatu Business Visa in 2026
Universal Vanuatu Business Visa documents include a completed application form, passport copy, itinerary, fee receipt, and a specific invitation or permit depending on your exact business activity.
Fulfilling Vanuatu Business eVisa requirements means submitting the correct supporting paperwork. For instance, temporary employment requires a temporary Work Permit and a VFSC company copy, while general meetings require a formal invitation or business licence copy. Every Vanuatu Business Visa application must align with these exact document criteria.
| Permitted Activity | Required Document |
|---|---|
| Meetings and Negotiations | Confirmation letter from a Vanuatu institution / business licence |
| Filming or Research | Research Permit from Vanuatu Cultural Center |
| Temporary Employment | Temporary Work Permit (DOL) and VFSC company copy |
4. Permitted Business Activities & Consequences of Non-Compliance
A Vanuatu Business Visa permits meetings, negotiations, market research, and temporary employment, while conducting these activities on a tourist visa risks fines and deportation under the Immigration Act.
Permitted activities under a Vanuatu Business Visa include attending corporate meetings, conducting academic research, and engaging in short-term employment (with proper permits). Meeting Vanuatu Business eVisa requirements legally is essential.
Business on a tourist visa is illegal under Immigration Act No. 17 of 2010, punishable by fines, deportation, and entry bans.
5. How to Apply for a Vanuatu Business Visa from the UK (Step by Step)
UK applicants must gather documents, complete the Vanuatu Business Visa application form, arrange fee payment at the Vanuatu government cashier, and submit the application to the Department of Immigration.
Since digital submission is unavailable in 2026, follow these steps to meet Vanuatu Business eVisa requirements:
Gather documents
Passport, itinerary, and specific permits
Complete the form
Fill in the application form
Pay the fee
Directly to the government cashier (cash or certified cheque)
Submit application
To the Department of Immigration
Processing Time & Contact Details
Allow 4-6 weeks for processing; timelines are not guaranteed by the Department of Immigration. Secure your Vanuatu Business Visa well before travel.
Department of Immigration and Passport ServicesKumul Highway, Tamarama Building, Port Vila, Vanuatu
PO Box 9092
Phone: (+678) 22354
Email: [email protected]
Website: immigration.gov.vu
6. Visa Validity, Extensions, Insurance & Practical Travel Requirements
Vanuatu Business Visa extensions are assessed case-by-case by the Director of Immigration; travellers should also secure comprehensive medical evacuation insurance and declare commercial samples at customs.
In-country change of status from a tourist waiver to a Vanuatu Business Visa is strictly prohibited. While there are no mandatory vaccinations in 2026, medical insurance is highly recommended. For commercial samples, use an ATA Carnet to clear customs smoothly and comply with all Vanuatu Business eVisa requirements.
7. Which Vanuatu Visa Do You Need? – 2026 Decision Guide for UK Travellers
Choose a Tourist Visa for holidays, a Vanuatu Business Visa for meetings, a Provisional Investor Visa for setting up a company, or an Employment Visa for long-term work in Vanuatu.
If your trip involves purely leisure, the 120-day visa-free waiver suffices. For short-term commercial tasks, the Vanuatu Business Visa is required. Entrepreneurs looking to establish a business need a Provisional Investor Visa, which requires VFIPA approval. Understanding these Vanuatu Business eVisa requirements prevents legal issues at the border.
8. Vanuatu Business Visa FAQ
Find quick answers to common questions about Vanuatu Business Visa validity, processing times, fees, and requirements for UK citizens in 2026.
Can I apply for a Vanuatu Business eVisa online in 2026?
No; the portal (evisa.gov.vu) does not offer a Business eVisa. Apply via paper to the Department of Immigration; online payment is unavailable.
Do UK citizens need a visa for business in Vanuatu?
Yes. The 120-day visa-free entry is for tourism only; a Vanuatu Business Visa is strictly required for commercial activities.
What happens if I conduct business on a Vanuatu tourist visa?
Business on a tourist visa is illegal under Immigration Act No. 17 of 2010, punishable by heavy fines, deportation, and entry bans.
How much does a Vanuatu Business Visa cost?
A Single Entry costs 20,000 VUV, and a Multiple Entry costs 35,000 VUV. Fees must be paid directly to the government cashier.
How long is a Vanuatu Business Visa valid for?
Single Entry: 3 months; Multiple Entry: 10 months. Both require passport validity of 6+ months beyond departure.
Can I extend my Vanuatu Business Visa?
Yes, extensions are assessed case-by-case by the Director of Immigration. You must apply before your current visa expires.
What is the processing time for a Vanuatu Business Visa?
Allow 4-6 weeks for processing; timelines are not guaranteed by the Department of Immigration.
Do I need a return ticket for a Vanuatu Business Visa?
Yes, an onward ticket or return ticket is mandatory, alongside proof of sufficient funds and a valid passport.
