Tarawa Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Tarawa, the capital atoll of the Republic of Kiribati, welcomes international visitors with relatively straightforward entry requirements. Most nationalities can enter Kiribati visa-free for tourism purposes, though all travelers must have valid documentation and proof of onward travel. The main point of entry is Bonriki International Airport (TRW) on South Tarawa, where immigration and customs procedures are conducted. The immigration process in Tarawa is generally efficient, though facilities are basic compared to larger international airports. Visitors should be prepared for a more relaxed, island-style processing experience. All travelers must complete an arrival card, present valid travel documents, and demonstrate sufficient funds for their stay. Given Kiribati's remote location in the Central Pacific, it's essential to have all documentation in order before departure, as there are limited options for resolving visa issues upon arrival. Before traveling to Tarawa, ensure your passport has at least six months validity from your intended date of entry, arrange accommodation in advance, and confirm your onward or return flight. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended due to limited medical facilities. Currency exchange options are limited, so plan accordingly. Always check with official Kiribati government sources or your nearest Kiribati diplomatic mission for the most current entry requirements, as policies can change.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Kiribati offers visa-free entry to most nationalities for stays up to 90 days for tourism purposes. Visitors must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay and possess confirmed onward or return tickets.

Visa-Free Entry

Up to 90 days (30 days initially granted, extendable)

Citizens of most countries can enter Kiribati without a visa for tourism purposes

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand All EU member states Japan South Korea Singapore Malaysia Most Commonwealth countries Most Pacific Island nations

Visitors are typically granted 30 days on arrival, which can be extended up to 90 days total at the Immigration Office in Tarawa. Extensions must be requested before the initial 30-day period expires. Proof of accommodation, sufficient funds (approximately AUD $500 per month), and onward travel must be demonstrated.

Visa on Arrival

Up to 30 days, extendable to 90 days

Some nationalities may obtain a visa upon arrival at Bonriki International Airport

Includes

Most other nationalities not listed in visa-free category

How to Apply: Visa on arrival is processed at immigration upon landing. Bring passport photos and be prepared to pay the visa fee in cash (Australian dollars preferred).
Cost: Approximately AUD $100-200 depending on nationality and duration

Requirements include valid passport (6 months validity), confirmed onward ticket, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds. Processing is usually straightforward but can take 30-60 minutes depending on flight arrivals.

Visa Required in Advance

Varies by visa type, typically 30-90 days

A small number of countries require obtaining a visa before travel

How to Apply: Apply through the nearest Kiribati diplomatic mission or High Commission. If no mission is available in your country, contact the Kiribati Ministry of Foreign Affairs directly. Applications typically require completed forms, passport photos, passport copy, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and visa fee. Processing can take 2-4 weeks.

Countries requiring advance visas are limited but may include certain African, Middle Eastern, and some Asian nations. Always verify current requirements with Kiribati authorities well in advance of travel.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Bonriki International Airport in Tarawa, travelers will proceed through immigration and customs. The process is relatively informal but thorough. Airport facilities are basic, and there are no jet bridges, so be prepared to walk across the tarmac.

Arrival Card Completion

Complete the arrival/departure card provided on the aircraft or at the immigration desk. Include details about your accommodation, purpose of visit, and duration of stay.

Immigration Control

Present your passport, completed arrival card, and onward/return ticket to the immigration officer. Be prepared to answer questions about your visit and show proof of accommodation and sufficient funds if requested.

Visa Issuance or Entry Stamp

If eligible for visa-free entry, you'll receive an entry stamp with the permitted duration (typically 30 days). If requiring a visa on arrival, payment will be collected and the visa issued.

Baggage Claim

Collect your luggage from the baggage claim area. The airport is small, so this process is straightforward.

Customs Declaration

Proceed to customs with your completed customs declaration form. Declare all restricted items, currency over the threshold, and items subject to duty. Bags may be inspected.

Exit to Arrivals Area

After clearing customs, exit to the small arrivals area where taxis and hotel transfers are available.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

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

Onward or Return Ticket

Proof of confirmed travel out of Kiribati is mandatory. This can be a return flight or onward ticket to another destination. Immigration will verify this.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation, guesthouse booking confirmation, or letter of invitation from a host in Kiribati. Should cover at least your initial stay.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, credit cards, or cash (approximately AUD $500 per month of stay). May be requested to demonstrate ability to support yourself.

Completed Arrival/Departure Card

Provided on the aircraft or at immigration. Keep the departure portion with your passport.

Yellow Fever Certificate

Required if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country. Must be presented at immigration.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Arrive with patience and a friendly attitude. The immigration process can be slower than in larger countries, especially when multiple flights arrive simultaneously.

Have all documents organized and easily accessible before reaching the immigration counter. This includes passport, tickets, accommodation confirmation, and any visa documentation.

Carry Australian dollars (AUD) in cash for any visa fees, as this is the local currency and credit card facilities may not be available at immigration.

Print physical copies of all important documents (tickets, accommodation bookings, travel insurance) as internet connectivity at the airport is limited and unreliable.

If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, ask about extension procedures at immigration upon arrival, or visit the Immigration Office in Bairiki within your first few weeks.

The airport has minimal facilities. There is no ATM in the arrivals area, so ensure you have cash for immediate expenses like taxi fare.

Dress modestly and respectfully. While Kiribati is welcoming, conservative dress is appreciated, especially when dealing with officials.

Customs & Duty-Free

Kiribati Customs Service enforces regulations to protect the environment, public health, and local economy. All travelers must complete a customs declaration form and declare items that exceed duty-free allowances or fall under restricted categories. Customs officers may inspect luggage, and penalties for non-declaration can include fines and confiscation.

Alcohol

2 liters of spirits or wine, or 2 cartons (48 cans) of beer

Must be 21 years or older. Alcohol is heavily taxed in Kiribati, so exceeding allowances results in significant duties.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 250 grams of tobacco products

Must be 21 years or older. Additional quantities subject to import duty.

Currency

No limit on amount brought in

Amounts exceeding AUD $10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared on arrival. Failure to declare can result in seizure and penalties.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and gifts up to AUD $400 total value

Items clearly for personal use during stay are generally exempt. Commercial quantities or items for resale require import permits and are subject to duty.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - strict penalties including imprisonment
Firearms, ammunition, and weapons - require special import permits from police
Pornographic materials - subject to confiscation
Counterfeit goods - subject to confiscation
Endangered species products - protected under international conventions
Live animals and birds - without proper quarantine permits
Fresh fruits, vegetables, and plant materials - biosecurity risk
Meat and meat products - biosecurity risk, requires permits
Soil and sand - environmental protection
Drones - require special permits from Ministry of Communication

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - bring only personal supply with original packaging and prescription. Quantities exceeding 3 months supply may require import permit
Plants and seeds - require phytosanitary certificate and import permit from Agriculture Quarantine
Pets - require import permit, health certificates, rabies vaccination records, and quarantine arrangements made in advance
Radio communication equipment - requires permit from Ministry of Communication
Professional photography/video equipment - may require temporary import permit for commercial use
Fishing equipment - recreational fishing gear allowed, but commercial equipment requires permits
Alcohol and tobacco exceeding duty-free allowances - subject to import duty and taxes

Health Requirements

Kiribati has specific health-related entry requirements to protect public health. While routine vaccinations are generally sufficient for most travelers, certain vaccinations are mandatory depending on your travel history.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - mandatory if arriving from or having transited through a yellow fever endemic country within 6 days prior to arrival. Must present valid yellow fever vaccination certificate (valid 10 days after vaccination and for life).

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A and B - due to food and water safety considerations
Typhoid - recommended for travelers eating outside major hotels
Tetanus-Diphtheria - ensure routine vaccination is up to date
MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) - measles outbreaks can occur in Pacific islands
Influenza - especially during flu season
COVID-19 - check current requirements as policies may change

Health Insurance

Comprehensive travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended and may be required for visa issuance. Medical facilities in Kiribati are very basic, and serious medical conditions require evacuation to Fiji, Australia, or New Zealand, which can cost over USD $100,000. Ensure your policy covers the Pacific region and includes repatriation. Bring sufficient supplies of any prescription medications as pharmacies have limited stock.

Current Health Requirements: Check current COVID-19 and other health requirements before travel as these can change. Visit the Kiribati Ministry of Health website or contact your nearest Kiribati diplomatic mission for the latest health protocols, testing requirements, quarantine rules, and vaccination mandates. Some health measures may be implemented temporarily during disease outbreaks.

🛡️

Protect Your Trip with Travel Insurance

Comprehensive coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and 24/7 emergency assistance. Many countries recommend or require travel insurance.

Get a Quote from World Nomads

Read our complete Tarawa Travel Insurance Guide →

Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Kiribati Immigration Division

Ministry of Justice, Immigration Division, Bairiki, Tarawa

For visa extensions, immigration inquiries, and official information. Visit in person during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM). Limited phone and email responsiveness.

Your Country's Embassy/High Commission

Contact your government's nearest diplomatic mission covering Kiribati

Most countries do not have representation in Kiribati. Australia and New Zealand have High Commissions in Tarawa. Other nationals are typically covered by embassies in Fiji or Australia. Register with your embassy before travel.

Emergency Services

Police: 999 | Hospital: 994 | Fire: 998

Emergency response capabilities are limited. For serious medical emergencies, contact your embassy and travel insurance provider immediately for evacuation arrangements.

Tungaru Central Hospital

Main hospital in Tarawa, located in Nawerewere

Phone: +686 28100. Limited facilities and supplies. For serious conditions, medical evacuation to Fiji or Australia is necessary.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

For visa inquiries and official information

Email: mfa@mfa.gov.ki | Located in Bairiki. Limited email response times. Best contacted through nearest Kiribati diplomatic mission.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (cannot be included in parent's passport). If traveling with only one parent or neither parent, carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s) authorizing the child's travel. Birth certificates may be requested to establish relationship. Minors under 18 traveling alone require special documentation and may need to be met by a responsible adult in Kiribati. Same visa requirements apply to children as adults.

Traveling with Pets

Importing pets to Kiribati is complex and requires advance planning (minimum 6 months). Requirements include: import permit from Agriculture Quarantine Division, current rabies vaccination (at least 30 days old, not more than 12 months), health certificate from licensed veterinarian issued within 7 days of travel, microchip identification, and quarantine period (typically 30 days) at owner's expense. Quarantine facilities are very limited. Dogs and cats only; other animals generally not permitted. Contact the Quarantine Division well in advance: quarantine@agriculture.gov.ki. Many visitors leave pets at home due to difficulties.

Extended Stays (Beyond Tourist Visa)

Tourist visas can be extended up to 90 days total by visiting the Immigration Office in Bairiki before your initial period expires. Bring passport, proof of funds, accommodation details, and onward ticket. Extension fee applies (approximately AUD $50-100). For stays beyond 90 days, you must apply for a different visa category: work permit (requires job offer and employer sponsorship), business visa (requires business registration and purpose documentation), or residence permit (requires substantial investment or family ties). Long-term stays require police clearance and medical examination. Processing can take several months. Overstaying results in fines (AUD $50 per day), detention, and deportation.

Business Travel

Business visitors may enter on tourist visa for short trips (meetings, conferences, site visits) but cannot engage in paid employment or long-term business activities. For extended business activities, work permits, or establishing business operations, contact the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives for business registration and the Immigration Division for appropriate work permits. Business visa applications require letter from Kiribati sponsor/business partner, company registration documents, and detailed purpose of visit.

Journalists and Media

Journalists, photographers, and film crews require special media permits from the Ministry of Information, Communication, Transport and Tourism Development before arrival. Tourist visas do not authorize professional media activities. Applications should be submitted at least 4-6 weeks before travel and include detailed itinerary, purpose of coverage, and areas to be visited. Unauthorized media activities can result in deportation.

Volunteers and NGO Workers

Volunteer work and NGO activities require work permits even if unpaid. Sponsoring organization in Kiribati must apply for permits on behalf of volunteers. Process includes police clearance, medical examination, and proof of organization's registration. Tourist visas do not authorize volunteer activities. Plan 2-3 months for permit processing.