Honiara Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Honiara, the capital of Solomon Islands, welcomes visitors to its tropical shores. Entry is helpd through the main international gateway, Honiara International Airport (HIR). All travelers must possess a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay, a return or onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds for their visit. The immigration process is generally straightforward, with officers verifying documents and the purpose of your stay. Visitors should be aware that infrastructure and services in the Solomon Islands are developing, and entry requirements can be subject to change. It is important to plan your entry documents well in advance of travel, if a visa is required. Upon arrival, you will need to complete an arrival card, which will be collected by immigration officials. Before traveling, ensure you have all necessary vaccinations and check for any current health advisories. The climate is tropical, and visitors should prepare accordingly. Always respect local customs and laws, and be mindful that entry is at the discretion of the Immigration Division.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

The Solomon Islands operates a visa policy where many nationalities can obtain a visitor's permit on arrival, while others must apply in advance. The specific requirements depend on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.

Visa-Free Entry / Visitor's Permit on Arrival

Typically up to 90 days for tourism/business.

Nationalities that can obtain a visitor's permit upon arrival at Honiara International Airport or other ports of entry.

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand European Union member states Japan South Korea Singapore Malaysia

The permit is not a visa but grants temporary entry. You must still meet all standard entry requirements (valid passport, onward ticket, funds). The permit can usually be extended once within the country by applying to the Immigration Division.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA/eVisa)

N/A

The Solomon Islands does not currently offer an ETA or eVisa system. All visas or permits must be obtained on arrival (if eligible) or from an embassy/consulate in advance.

How to Apply: N/A
Cost: N/A

This policy is subject to change. Always check the official Immigration Division website for the latest application methods.

Visa Required

As specified on the issued visa.

Nationalities that must obtain a visa from a Solomon Islands diplomatic mission (embassy or consulate) before travel.

How to Apply: Apply at a Solomon Islands embassy or consulate, or in some cases, through the British Embassy acting on their behalf. Applications typically require a completed form, passport photos, itinerary, proof of funds, and the visa fee. Processing times vary.

The list of visa-required countries is extensive and includes many Asian, African, and Middle Eastern nations. Travelers from China, India, Pakistan, and the Philippines, for example, typically require a pre-arranged visa. It is critical to confirm your specific nationality's status well before travel.

Arrival Process

Arriving at Honiara International Airport is a relatively simple process. The airport is small, and procedures are direct. Be prepared with all your documents in hand.

1. Arrival and Health Check

You may be asked to present proof of yellow fever vaccination if arriving from a risk country. A basic health screening or declaration form may be required.

2. Immigration

Proceed to the immigration counters. Present your passport, completed arrival card, and return/onward ticket. The officer will ask the purpose of your visit and may ask about accommodation. If eligible, your visitor's permit will be stamped into your passport here.

3. Baggage Claim and Customs

Collect your luggage and proceed through the customs hall. You may be asked to declare certain items or have your bags scanned. Have your customs declaration card ready if you filled one out on the plane.

4. Exit to Arrivals Hall

After clearing customs, you exit into the public arrivals area where you can find taxis, hotel transfers, and currency exchange.

Documents to Have Ready

Passport

Must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry. Must have at least one blank visa page.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof you intend to leave the Solomon Islands, required for all visitors.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Immigration may ask to see evidence you can support yourself during your stay (cash, credit cards, bank statements).

Accommodation Details

You may be asked for the address of your hotel or host in Honiara.

Visitor's Permit or Visa

Either the permit obtained on arrival (if eligible) or a pre-arranged visa sticker in your passport.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Fill out your arrival card on the plane to save time at the immigration counter.

Have your passport, ticket, and accommodation details easily accessible in a document holder.

Answer immigration questions politely and directly. Do not joke about your visit purpose.

If you obtained a visa in advance, keep a copy separate from your passport in case of loss.

Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport for taxi fares, as not all drivers accept cards.

Customs & Duty-Free

Solomon Islands customs regulations are designed to protect its unique environment and agriculture. Declare all items as required to avoid penalties.

Alcohol

2.25 liters of wine or 1 liter of spirits

Traveler must be 21 years or older.

Tobacco

250 grams of tobacco or 200 cigarettes

Traveler must be 21 years or older.

Currency

SBD $50,000 or foreign currency equivalent

Amounts exceeding this must be declared upon arrival and departure.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and gifts up to a value of SBD $3,000

Items must be for personal use and not for commercial sale.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - strict laws apply
Firearms, ammunition, and weapons without prior permit
Pornographic material
Counterfeit currency and goods
Protected wildlife and products (e.g., turtle shell, certain corals) without CITES permits

Restricted Items

Medications ( prescription drugs) - must be in original packaging, accompanied by a doctor's prescription or letter
Plants, seeds, fruits, vegetables, and soil - require import permits from the Ministry of Agriculture
Animals and animal products - require import permits and veterinary health certificates
Communications equipment (e.g., satellite phones, certain radios) - may require approval

Health Requirements

Health precautions are important when visiting the Solomon Islands due to prevalent tropical diseases. Malaria is a risk throughout the country, including Honiara.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving from a country with risk of Yellow Fever transmission.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, Polio, etc.)
Hepatitis A & B
Typhoid
Japanese Encephalitis (for long-term travelers or those visiting rural areas)
Rabies (for adventure travelers, cavers, or those working with animals)

Health Insurance

Complete travel health insurance, including medical evacuation coverage, is highly recommended. Medical facilities in Honiara are limited, and serious conditions often require evacuation to Australia or New Zealand.

Current Health Requirements: Check the latest requirements for COVID-19 testing or vaccination before travel, as these can change. Also consult your doctor or a travel clinic 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized advice on antimalarial medication (essential for most visitors) and other health precautions.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Few countries have embassies in Honiara. Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan, Japan, and the UK have diplomatic missions. Others are represented via embassies in Port Moresby (Papua New Guinea) or Canberra (Australia).

Check your government's travel advisory website for the nearest representation and contact details.

Immigration Authority

Solomon Islands Immigration Division, Ministry of Commerce, Industries, Labour & Immigration.

For visa applications and official information. Contact: +677 25211 or visit the government portal.

Emergency

999

Police, ambulance, fire. Service reliability and response times can vary.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children under 18 must have their own passport. If traveling with only one parent or without parents, it is highly advisable to carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent(s) or legal guardian(s), along with copies of their passports. This is not an official requirement but can prevent delays at immigration.

Traveling with Pets

Importing pets is complex and strictly regulated to protect the local ecosystem. An import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock is mandatory. Pets will require a veterinary health certificate, proof of rabies vaccination (and other core vaccines), and may be subject to quarantine upon arrival. The process can take months; start inquiries well in advance.

Extended Stays

Visitor's permits obtained on arrival can often be extended once by applying at the Immigration Division headquarters in Honiara before the initial permit expires. For longer stays, work permits, business visas, or residence permits are required and must be applied for in advance through the appropriate channels, often with sponsorship from a local entity.

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