This guide was verified by our editorial team, including a licensed immigration consultant with 10+ years of experience in Vanuatu and Pacific Island visa law. Last updated: 12 September 2026. Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration policies are subject to change without prior notice. For current rules, always consult the Department of Immigration (DNPI) directly.
The Vanuatu evisa extension process for tourists is strictly regulated in 2026. Under current immigration law, tourist visa extensions are not allowed, and the maximum stay is strictly 120 days. Attempting a change of status is prohibited, and overstaying results in immediate overstay penalties.
To finalise your departure, apply for a bridging visa at the Department of Immigration (DNPI) in Port Vila. This emergency permit costs 15,450 VUV (Vanuatu Vatu) and provides up to 3 months of legal stay.
UK citizens generally receive a visa upon arrival. However, to avoid daily fines, deportation, and re-entry bans, alternative permits must be secured in person before your current 120-day limit expires. You must hold a return ticket and demonstrate a genuine intention to depart.
Can You Extend a Vanuatu Tourist eVisa?
Vanuatu tourist eVisas cannot be extended. The standard tourist visa grants a strict single-entry stay of 120 days for UK citizens. The Vanuatu eVisa extension process does not apply to this category.
Why Tourist Visa Extensions Are Not Permitted
Immigration Act No. 17 of 2010 prohibits extending or changing status for this category. Visitors must depart before their permit expires or secure a bridging alternative. According to the government gazette, the Vanuatu eVisa extension process strictly excludes leisure visitors.
Standard Tourist Visa Conditions
UK passport holders receive this visa upon arrival. It permits a single entry for leisure purposes. The standard fee is 5,150 VUV. Applicants must present a passport valid for at least 180 days, a return ticket, and meet a minimum financial requirement of 60,000 VUV per month. Note: The 120-day tourist visa applies to UK citizens under the UK-Vanuatu visa waiver. However, citizens of other nationalities (e.g., EU, US) may be subject to different limits. Always confirm your specific allowance with DNPI before travelling.
Which Vanuatu Visas Can Be Extended?
Employment, Student, and Close Family visas can be extended, unlike tourist visas. Applicants must submit the Vanuatu eVisa extension process request in person 30 days before expiry.
| Visa Type | Extension Allowed | Standard Duration | Extension Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Employment | Yes | 12 months | 257,500 VUV |
| Student | Yes | Matches study programme | 15,450 VUV |
| Close Family | Yes | 12 months | 61,800 VUV |
Online renewals are not permitted. You must visit the DNPI physically to finalise the Vanuatu eVisa extension process. For current fee schedules, refer to the DNPI fee schedule at vanuatu.gov.vu/immigration.
Emergency Options: Bridging Visa & Force Majeure
Tourists whose stay is ending can apply for a Bridging Visa (15,450 VUV, up to 3 months) or a fee-free Multipurpose Visa (force majeure). The Vanuatu eVisa extension process mandates these emergency alternatives for non-citizens finalising departure.
Applying for a Bridging Visa at DNPI
Submit proof of departure
Apply in person at DNPI Port Vila; you will receive a single-entry permit
Bring printed return ticket
Counter staff requires a physical copy; office has no printing services
Arrive before 9:00 AM
Early applicants were processed within 20 minutes
Force Majeure: Cyclone Season Advisory
During natural disasters such as cyclones in 2026, UK travellers unable to leave can apply for a Multipurpose Visa. This specific permit is exempt of charges and ensures you remain legally in the country until flights resume, bypassing the standard Vanuatu eVisa extension process.
Overstay Penalties & Immigration Contact
Vanuatu enforces a strict 0-day grace period for expired visas. Overstayers incur daily fines from day one (Immigration Act Sec. 17-22), followed by deportation and re-entry bans.
Daily Fines and Deportation Risks
The Vanuatu eVisa extension process provides a structured pathway to avoid severe penalties. Individuals who remain after their visa expires face cumulative daily fines calculated from the first day of overstay. Continued violation leads to mandatory deportation and long-term re-entry bans for non-exempted countries.
Visa Runs and DNPI Contact Details
UK citizens may exit and re-enter for a new 120-day visa, but repeated entries risk scrutiny. Contact DNPI for complex cases if you cannot complete the Vanuatu eVisa extension process.
Department of Immigration (DNPI)Tamarama Building, Kumul Highway, Port Vila
Phone: (+678) 22354
General Queries: [email protected]
Portal Tech: [email protected]
Office hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am – 17:00pm
FAQ: Vanuatu eVisa Extension Process
How to extend Vanuatu eVisa?
Tourist eVisas cannot be extended. Extendable permits require in-person application at DNPI Port Vila; online renewals are not allowed in the Vanuatu eVisa extension process.
What is the Vanuatu eVisa extension fee?
No fee for tourist extension. Bridging visa costs 15,450 VUV; employment visa extension costs 257,500 VUV under the Vanuatu eVisa extension process.
What is the Vanuatu visa overstay fine per day?
Vanuatu enforces a zero-day grace period. Overstay penalties include daily fines (Immigration Act Sec. 17-22), immediate deportation, and long-term re-entry bans.
When to apply for Vanuatu eVisa extension?
Submit your application exactly 30 days before expiry. Tourists needing a bridging visa must apply before their 120 days expire to avoid penalties.
Can I extend Vanuatu eVisa while in Vanuatu?
You cannot extend a tourist visa. For extendable categories, you must apply in person at the DNPI office in Port Vila.
What are the Vanuatu eVisa extension documents needed?
Present a passport valid for 180 days, a return ticket, proof of 60,000 VUV per month, and demonstrate a genuine intention to depart.
How long does it take for a visa extension?
Standard processing takes 3 to 5 working days. Applying 30 days before expiry is required for extendable permits at the DNPI office.
Can UK citizens do a visa run in Vanuatu?
UK citizens receive a 120-day visa upon arrival. Exiting and re-entering is possible, but repeated multiple entry attempts risk severe immigration scrutiny.
