Kiribati Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Kiribati, a remote island nation in the central Pacific Ocean, welcomes international visitors with a relatively straightforward entry process. Most travelers can obtain a visa on arrival at Bonriki International Airport in Tarawa, the capital, making it accessible for tourism, business, and family visits. However, due to the country's remote location and limited international connections, proper preparation and documentation are essential for a smooth entry experience. The immigration process in Kiribati is generally efficient, though facilities are basic compared to larger international airports. All visitors must have a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds for their stay. The country's immigration authorities are courteous but thorough, and having all required documents readily available will help expedite the process. Before traveling to Kiribati, it's crucial to understand that the nation has limited infrastructure and services. Visitors should arrange accommodations in advance, ensure they have adequate travel insurance, and be prepared for the unique challenges of traveling to one of the world's most remote destinations. Direct international flights are limited, typically connecting through Fiji or the Marshall Islands, so careful travel planning is essential.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Kiribati operates a visa-on-arrival system for most nationalities, making it relatively easy for tourists and business travelers to visit. However, all travelers must meet specific entry requirements including valid travel documents, proof of onward travel, and accommodation arrangements.

Visa on Arrival

Initially granted for up to 30 days, with possible extensions up to 90 days total

Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Bonriki International Airport in Tarawa

Includes

Visa on arrival is free of charge for tourist and business visits. You must present a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity), confirmed return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds for your stay. Extensions can be requested at the Immigration Office in Tarawa.

Pre-Arranged Visa

Varies based on purpose of visit, typically 30-90 days

Some nationalities or special circumstances may require obtaining a visa before travel

How to Apply: Contact the nearest Kiribati Honorary Consulate or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration in Tarawa. Applications should be submitted at least 4-6 weeks before intended travel. Required documents include completed application form, passport photos, passport copy, travel itinerary, accommodation details, and letter of invitation (if applicable).

Those planning to work, study, or engage in activities beyond tourism should arrange visas in advance. Journalists and researchers may need special permits. Due to limited diplomatic representation, many travelers may need to contact the Kiribati mission in Fiji or communicate directly with Tarawa.

Visa Extension

Extensions typically granted in 30-day increments, up to a maximum total stay of 90 days

Visitors wishing to stay beyond their initial 30-day visa on arrival

How to Apply: Apply at the Immigration Division, Ministry of Justice, in Bairiki, Tarawa. Bring your passport, original entry stamp, proof of sufficient funds, accommodation details, and return ticket. Processing typically takes 2-5 business days.
Cost: Extension fees apply, approximately AUD $50-100 depending on duration

Extensions are not guaranteed and are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities. Apply before your initial visa expires to avoid overstay penalties.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Bonriki International Airport, the main international gateway to Kiribati, travelers will go through immigration and customs procedures. The airport is small with basic facilities, and processing can take time depending on the number of arriving passengers. Be patient and have all documents organized and easily accessible.

Arrival and Health Screening

After disembarking, you may undergo health screening procedures, which can include temperature checks or health questionnaires depending on current health protocols. Follow instructions from health officials.

Immigration Control

Present your passport, completed arrival card (usually distributed on the flight), return or onward ticket, and accommodation details to the immigration officer. The officer will ask questions about your visit and stamp your visa on arrival.

Baggage Claim

Collect your luggage from the baggage claim area. The airport has limited facilities, so the process is straightforward but may take time as bags are manually sorted.

Customs Declaration

Complete a customs declaration form if you have items to declare. All baggage may be subject to inspection. Declare any restricted items, currency over the threshold, or goods exceeding duty-free allowances.

Exit and Ground Transportation

After clearing customs, exit the terminal. Arrange transportation to your accommodation, which should ideally be pre-arranged as taxi services are limited. Your hotel may provide pickup service if arranged in advance.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Kiribati. Ensure you have blank pages for entry and exit stamps.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Kiribati is mandatory. This can be a return flight ticket or onward travel to another destination. Immigration will verify this before granting entry.

Accommodation Confirmation

Hotel reservation, letter of invitation from a host, or other proof of where you will stay during your visit. Immigration officers may ask for specific addresses.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Evidence that you can financially support yourself during your stay, such as bank statements, credit cards, or cash. While not always requested, have this available if asked.

Arrival/Departure Card

Completed immigration card with your personal details, purpose of visit, and accommodation information. Usually provided on the aircraft or at the airport.

Health Documentation

Vaccination certificates if arriving from yellow fever endemic areas. Check current health requirements which may include COVID-19 vaccination certificates or test results.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Arrive with patience and flexibility - Bonriki International Airport has limited facilities and processing can be slower than major international airports. Stay calm and courteous with officials.

Print all documents - Have physical copies of your return ticket, hotel reservations, and any other supporting documents. Internet connectivity and printing facilities are very limited in Kiribati.

Carry Australian dollars - The official currency is the Australian dollar (AUD). Bring sufficient cash as ATMs are limited and credit card acceptance is minimal outside major hotels.

Pre-arrange airport pickup - Transportation from the airport is limited. Contact your hotel or accommodation in advance to arrange pickup, as taxis may not always be available.

Dress modestly and respectfully - Kiribati is a conservative society. Dress appropriately when arriving, avoiding revealing clothing, which will make a good first impression with immigration officials.

Keep immigration officer's contact - Note down the immigration office location and contact details in case you need to extend your visa or have questions during your stay.

Customs & Duty-Free

Kiribati customs regulations are designed to protect the country's fragile environment and prevent the introduction of pests, diseases, and prohibited goods. All arriving passengers must complete a customs declaration form and may be subject to baggage inspection. It's important to declare all items that might be restricted or exceed duty-free allowances to avoid penalties.

Alcohol

2 liters of spirits or wine, or 24 cans/bottles of beer (approximately 8 liters)

Must be 21 years or older. Alcohol may be subject to inspection. Excessive quantities may be confiscated or require duty payment.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 250 grams of tobacco products

Must be 21 years or older. Tobacco products must be for personal use only.

Currency

No limit on currency import or export, but amounts exceeding AUD $10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared

Failure to declare currency over the threshold may result in confiscation and penalties. Complete the currency declaration form if carrying large amounts.

Gifts/Personal Goods

Personal effects and gifts with a total value up to AUD $400 for adults, AUD $200 for children under 18

Goods must be for personal use or as gifts, not for commercial purposes. Duty may apply to items exceeding the allowance.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - Kiribati has strict drug laws with severe penalties including imprisonment
Firearms, ammunition, and weapons - Require special import permits from police authorities, rarely granted to tourists
Pornographic materials - Strictly prohibited in accordance with local laws and customs
Counterfeit goods - Including fake currency, pirated media, and counterfeit branded items
Endangered species products - Items made from protected animals, plants, or corals under CITES regulations
Fresh fruits and vegetables - To prevent introduction of pests and diseases that could harm local agriculture
Live animals and plants - Require special quarantine permits from the Ministry of Environment
Meat and dairy products - Fresh, frozen, or processed meat and dairy from most countries to prevent disease introduction
Soil and biological materials - Can introduce harmful organisms to the fragile island ecosystem

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - Bring only what's needed for your stay with original packaging and doctor's prescription. Large quantities may require prior approval
Drones and radio equipment - Require permits from the Ministry of Information, Communications, Transport and Tourism Development. Apply in advance
Professional camera/video equipment - May require media permits if for commercial or journalistic purposes
Fishing equipment - Sport fishing gear is allowed but commercial fishing equipment requires permits
Seeds and plant materials - Require phytosanitary certificates and import permits from quarantine authorities
Honey and bee products - Require inspection and clearance from biosecurity officials
Used items and second-hand goods - May require inspection and clearance, particularly clothing and equipment

Health Requirements

Kiribati has specific health requirements to protect both visitors and the local population. While the country has limited medical facilities, maintaining good health during your visit is essential. Check current requirements well before travel as they may change based on global health situations.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Vaccination certificate required if arriving from or transiting through countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. This includes many countries in Africa and South America. The certificate must be presented to immigration officials upon arrival.

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to potential exposure through food and water
Typhoid - Recommended, especially for those staying longer or visiting rural areas
Hepatitis B - Recommended for travelers who may have exposure to blood or body fluids
Tetanus-Diphtheria - Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) - Ensure you are fully vaccinated, as outbreaks can occur
Influenza - Consider seasonal flu vaccination before travel
COVID-19 - Check current requirements for vaccination certificates or testing

Health Insurance

Comprehensive travel health insurance is strongly recommended and may be required for entry. Kiribati has very limited medical facilities, with only basic healthcare available. Serious medical conditions require evacuation to Fiji, Australia, or New Zealand, which is extremely expensive without insurance. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation, hospitalization, and repatriation. Carry proof of insurance and emergency contact numbers.

Current Health Requirements: Health entry requirements can change rapidly based on global health situations. Check current COVID-19 requirements including vaccination certificates, pre-departure testing, and quarantine rules. Visit your country's travel health website and the Kiribati government website for the latest information. Consider consulting a travel medicine specialist 4-6 weeks before departure. Bring adequate supplies of any prescription medications as pharmacies in Kiribati have limited stock.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Immigration Division

Ministry of Justice, Bairiki, Tarawa - For visa extensions and immigration inquiries

Phone: +686 21099. Limited email access. Best to visit in person during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM - 4:15 PM)

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration

For official visa and entry requirement information

Located in Bairiki, Tarawa. Contact through Kiribati diplomatic missions abroad or email: mfa@kiribati.gov.ki

Emergency Services

Police, Fire, and Ambulance

Emergency number: 999 or 192 (Police), 193 (Fire). Note that emergency response capabilities are limited compared to developed countries

Tungaru Central Hospital

Main hospital in Tarawa

Phone: +686 28100. Located in Nawerewere, Tarawa. Facilities are basic; serious cases require medical evacuation

Your Embassy or Consulate

Contact your country's diplomatic mission

Few countries maintain embassies in Kiribati. Australian and New Zealand High Commissions are in Tarawa. Others may need to contact missions in Fiji or Suva for assistance

Bonriki International Airport

Main international airport information

Phone: +686 21214. Very limited services and facilities. Confirm flight times before heading to airport

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passports and meet the same entry requirements as adults. If traveling with only one parent or with someone other than parents, carry notarized consent letters from non-accompanying parent(s) to avoid questions at immigration. Birth certificates may be requested. Children receive the same visa on arrival as adults. Consider that Kiribati has very limited medical facilities for pediatric emergencies, so ensure comprehensive travel insurance and bring adequate supplies of any medications children may need.

Traveling with Pets

Importing pets to Kiribati is extremely difficult and generally discouraged for tourists. If you must bring a pet, you need an import permit from the Ministry of Environment, Lands and Agricultural Development, obtained well in advance (at least 3 months). Requirements include: microchipping, rabies vaccination (at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before entry), veterinary health certificate issued within 7 days of travel, treatment for parasites, and quarantine period upon arrival. Costs are significant and facilities are limited. Most visitors should not attempt to bring pets.

Extended Stays and Residence

Tourist visas can be extended up to a maximum of 90 days total stay. For stays beyond 90 days, you must apply for a different visa category such as work permit, business visa, or residence permit. Work permits require sponsorship from a local employer and approval from the Ministry of Labour. Business visas require documentation from local business partners. Residence permits are difficult to obtain and require substantial ties to Kiribati. Apply at the Immigration Division in Tarawa with supporting documents, police clearance from your home country, medical examination results, and proof of financial means. Processing can take several months.

Business Travelers

Business visitors can enter on visa on arrival for short business trips (meetings, conferences, consultations) up to 30 days. Bring letter of invitation from Kiribati business partner, company letter explaining purpose of visit, and business registration documents. For longer business stays or to conduct business activities beyond meetings, apply for a business visa in advance. Work permits are required for any employment or paid activities. Consult with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives for specific business activity requirements.

Journalists and Media Personnel

Journalists, photographers, and film crews require special media permits from the Ministry of Information, Communications, Transport and Tourism Development. Apply at least 4-6 weeks before travel with detailed information about your project, filming locations, and crew members. Regular tourist visas are not valid for professional media work. Bring all approval letters and permits to show at immigration. Unauthorized media activities can result in deportation and equipment confiscation.

Cruise Ship Passengers

Passengers on cruise ships that dock in Kiribati (typically at Tarawa) may be granted shore leave without individual visa processing, handled by the ship's agent and immigration authorities. However, carry your passport for identification. Shore leave is typically limited to the immediate port area and organized excursions. If you wish to stay in Kiribati after the cruise departs, you must complete normal entry procedures and obtain a visa on arrival before the ship leaves.

Transit Passengers

Passengers transiting through Kiribati without leaving the airport do not require a visa if staying airside. However, given the small size of Bonriki International Airport and limited transit facilities, confirm with your airline. If you need to leave the airport during transit or your connection requires overnight stay, you must obtain a visa on arrival. Note that international flights to Kiribati are very limited, typically 2-3 times per week, so overnight stays are common for connections.