COVID-19 Precautionary Measures in Vanuatu (13 May Update)

Can a resident enter the country?

• Yes

• Citizens and legal residents are allowed to enter the country.

• Seasonal workers under the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme who were stuck in New Zealand due to the COVID-19 pandemic can return to the country.

Can a foreigner enter the country?

• No

• Foreign travellers are not allowed to enter. The country is closed for tourism.

Test certificate required?

• Yes

• Arrivals must provide a negative COVID-19 certificate issued up to 72 hours before departing for Vanuatu.

Is a test required on arrival?

• No with exceptions.

• Travellers are subject to medical screening.

Is quarantine required on arrival?

• Yes

• There is a mandatory 14 day quarantine period on arrival.

• Travellers are subject to medical screening.

• Seasonal workers under the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme returning from New Zealand will be required to quarantine themselves upon arrival to the country. The Vanuatu government will bear the cost of quarantine.

• Based on the above restrictions, arriving travellers will be required to spend ‘14’ days in quarantine

Entry form required?

• Yes

• Passengers must complete an online health form 24-72 hours before their departure for Vanuatu. The form can be found here.

• All permitted workers returning from New Zealand need to submit all information to the Vanuatu Commision in Wellington. The commission will publish a confirmed list to the Department of Labour 72 hours prior to departure.

Vaccination Required

• No

• A vaccination for COVID-19 is not required for entry into the country.

Insurance required?

• No

• Proof of insurance coverage for COVID-19 expenses is not required to enter the country.

Airline restrictions

• Significant

• All international commercial flights are suspended.

• Flights are operating between islands, however, frequency is reduced due to limited demand.

Border restrictions

• Significant

• Vanuatu borders remain closed except with specific permission, including for arrival by private vessel.

• Borders are closed to non-residents.

Curfew restrictions

• Moderate

• The state of emergency remains in effect until 31 July 2021. The decree will entail enforcement of travel restrictions and COVID-19 health protocols.

Social distancing restrictions

• Minimal

• There are no restrictions on social gatherings.

Internal travel restrictions

• Moderate

• Domestic travel ban to the island of Efate has been lifted

Restaurants open?

• Yes

• Restaurants, bars, and supermarkets are permitted to open.

Bars and cafes open?

• Yes

• Bars and cafes are permitted to open. However, some are operating a restricted service or have closed altogether due to decreased demand.

Masks required in public?

• Yes

• The use of face masks is advised.

The COVID-19 epidemic is constantly changing worldwide. Travel and border restrictions may change with little or no notice. Airlines may have their own requirements for testing, masking, and distancing. It is recommended that travellers carry a supply of face masks since the requirement can vary by location. It is recommended that travellers practice social distancing and maintain a 6-foot distance from other individuals and avoid crowded areas. Check with your airline, booking agent, or country's embassy for information on your specific travel plans