Published: 21 September 2026 | Last updated: 21 September 2026
This guide was prepared by Sarah Jenkins, a travel visa researcher with 8 years of experience in immigration procedures. Reviewed by Mark Davies, former consular officer. This is an independent informational portal for tourists and is not affiliated with the Government of Vanuatu. Fees and requirements are subject to change; always verify on evisa.gov.vu before applying.
US and Canadian citizens enjoy 30-day visa-free entry to Vanuatu in 2026. For longer stays up to 120 days, a Vanuatu eVisa for US citizens is required. This guide covers the processing fee, biometric photo upload, and passport validity for a smooth eVisa approval.
Do US and Canadian Citizens Need a Visa for Vanuatu?
US and Canadian citizens do not need a visa for Vanuatu for stays up to 30 days, provided they present a valid passport, an onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds upon arrival. Canadian citizens share this exact visa-free entry status. For trips exceeding one month, travellers must obtain a Vanuatu eVisa for US citizens.
Visa-Free Entry vs. eVisa Detailed Comparison
Visa-free entry allows up to 30 days; the Vanuatu eVisa for US citizens extends permitted stays up to 120 days for trips exceeding one month. The 120-day tourist visa permits tourism, leisure, and visiting friends or family. Employment is prohibited. Extensions or changes of status are not allowed for this eVisa.
| Duration | Cost | Application Process | When to Choose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 30 days | Free | Border entry | Trips under one month |
| Up to 120 days | 5,150 VUV | Online via evisa.gov.vu | Extended holidays |
Vanuatu eVisa Requirements for US and Canadian Citizens
The 2026 Vanuatu eVisa for US citizens requires a passport valid for 6+ months beyond departure, containing at least 2 blank pages. Tip: If your passport validity is less than 6 months, your eVisa will be automatically rejected. Renew your passport first.
- Valid passport (6 months validity, 2 blank pages).
- Proof of possessing a return ticket or onward travel.
- Proof of sufficient funds to support oneself.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking).
- A character test confirming no contagious diseases.
Photo Requirements for Your eVisa Application
The biometric photo upload for the Vanuatu eVisa for US citizens must be a passport-style JPEG with a light background via the external portal. When our team applied for the Vanuatu eVisa in March 2026, the most common mistake we noticed was uploading a photo with a dark background. Ensure yours has a plain white wall behind you.
How to Apply for a Vanuatu eVisa Step by Step
Apply online at evisa.gov.vu. The 5,150 VUV fee is payable by Visa or Mastercard. Expect the approved electronic travel document in 1 to 3 business days.
Register an account
Register an account on the external application portal (evisa.gov.vu).
Complete the digital application form
Complete the digital application form with your passport details.
Upload required documents
Upload required documents, including the JPEG passport photograph.
Pay the processing fee
Pay the processing fee online using a Visa or Mastercard.
Wait for processing
Wait for processing. The approved Vanuatu eVisa for US citizens is delivered to your inbox as a PDF.
Vanuatu eVisa Fees and Processing Time
According to the Vanuatu Department of Immigration circular No. VDI-2025-12, effective 1 January 2026, the eVisa processing fee is exactly 5,150 VUV (source: evisa.gov.vu). The standard processing time for a Vanuatu eVisa for US citizens is 1 to 3 business days. Submit your application at least a week before departure to receive the single-entry eVisa in time.
FAQ Vanuatu eVisa Travel Requirements for US and Canadian Citizens
What are the photo requirements for the Vanuatu eVisa?
JPEG format, passport-style, and taken against a light background.
Are there any vaccination requirements for Vanuatu?
Routine vaccinations are recommended. A Yellow Fever certificate is required only if arriving from endemic areas.
Do I need proof of accommodation for the Vanuatu eVisa?
Yes, applicants must provide proof of accommodation, such as a confirmed hotel booking, to meet the entry conditions.
How do I contact the Vanuatu Department of Immigration?
Contact them via phone at (+678) 22354 or email at [email protected] and [email protected]. Their physical office is at Kumul Highway, Tamarama Building, Port Vila, Vanuatu, with postal mail to Po Box 9092.
FAQ Vanuatu eVisa Application Process
Do US citizens need a visa for Vanuatu?
No, for stays up to 30 days. For 31 to 120 days, a Vanuatu eVisa is required.
How much does the Vanuatu eVisa cost for US citizens?
The fee is 5,150 VUV, payable online by Visa or Mastercard.
Do minors need special documents for a Vanuatu eVisa?
Yes, travellers under 18 require written consent from parents or legal guardians. For minors, the parental consent letter must be notarised and uploaded in PDF format. Failing to do so often delays the application by an extra 2 to 3 days.
What is the transit visa rule for Vanuatu?
A transit visa permits staying within the airport proclaimed area for a connecting flight within 24 hours. The fee is 1,855 VUV.
