The Solomon Islands, an archipelago nation in the South Pacific east of Papua New Guinea, offers a tiered visa entry system. Most nationalities from developed countries receive a Free Visitor Permit on arrival for up to 3 months. A small number of countries with special bilateral agreements (Israel and UAE) receive longer stays. EU and EEA citizens receive 90-day stays within 180 days. Several Asia-Pacific countries get 30 days. Travelers from countries not on the visa-free list need to obtain a pre-arranged visa approval before travel. Tourism is a growing sector with top visitors from Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, the USA, and Papua New Guinea.

2. Visa-Free — 90 Days (Bilateral Agreements)

The following countries receive 90-day visa-free access under special bilateral agreements:

90-Day Visa-Free (Special Bilateral Agreements) • Israel: 90 days • United Arab Emirates: 90 days

3. Visa-Free — 90 Days Within 180 Days (EU/EEA)

Citizens of European Union member states (except Ireland) and EEA countries receive a 90-day stay within any 180-day period:

EU/EEA Countries — 90 Days Within 180 Days • All EU member states except Ireland (26 EU countries) • Iceland • Liechtenstein • Norway • Switzerland

4. Visa-Free — 30 Days (Asia-Pacific Partners)

Citizens of the following Asia-Pacific countries receive 30-day visa-free stays:

30-Day Visa-Free (Asia-Pacific) • China • Malaysia • Singapore

5. Free Visitor Permit on Arrival — Up to 3 Months

Citizens of approximately 40 countries receive a Free Visitor Permit on arrival, valid for up to 3 months within a 12-month period. This is issued at Solomon Islands international airports and sea entry points. Key countries in this category include:

Free Visitor Permit on Arrival — Key Countries (3 Months / 12-Month Period) • Australia • New Zealand • United States • United Kingdom • Canada • Japan • South Korea • Taiwan • India • Ireland (EU member but separate category) • Papua New Guinea • Fiji • Vanuatu • Tonga • Samoa • Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia • South Africa, Brazil, Argentina • And approximately 40 countries total

6. Pre-Arranged Visa Approval Required

Nationals of countries not appearing on the visa-free or visitor permit lists must obtain a pre-arranged visa approval before traveling to the Solomon Islands. This requires contacting the Principal Immigration Officer or Solomon Islands diplomatic mission in advance. The application must be submitted before boarding a flight.

Pre-Arranged Visa Process • Contact: Solomon Islands Principal Immigration Officer (Honiara) or nearest diplomatic mission • Must be arranged before travel • Supporting documents: passport copy, purpose of visit, accommodation details, financial proof • Processing time: Allow several business days minimum • Upon approval, receive a letter/reference number to present at the border

7. Tourism and Top Visitor Countries

The Solomon Islands’ tourism sector is primarily driven by visitors from its Pacific neighbors and key anglophone markets. The top source countries for tourists are:

Top Tourist Source Countries • Australia (largest source by far) • New Zealand • Fiji • United States • Papua New Guinea

8. General Entry Requirements

All visitors to the Solomon Islands must satisfy:

• Valid passport with at least 6 months of validity beyond intended stay
• Return or onward travel ticket
• Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the visit
• Accommodation details (hotel, resort, or invitation from local host)
• Pre-arranged visa approval (if not in a visa-free or visitor permit category)

9. Extension of Stay

Visitors wishing to extend their stay beyond the initial permit can apply to the Immigration Division in Honiara. Extensions are subject to approval and require payment of a fee. Overstaying without approval is a violation of immigration law.

10. Health Requirements

The Solomon Islands is a malaria-endemic country. Travelers are strongly advised to take anti-malarial prophylaxis and use mosquito repellents and nets. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required for travelers arriving from yellow fever endemic countries.

11. Important Notes

Important Reminders • Honiara International Airport (Henderson Airport) is the main international gateway • Check latest visa requirements at the Solomon Islands Immigration Department website • Visitor permit validity (3 months) is within a 12-month rolling period • Diving and eco-tourism are major activities — world-class WWII wreck diving available • Remote island travel requires coordination with domestic airlines and boat operators