Immigration & Entry

Use this page to understand the most common entry questions — visa types, application steps, work permits, and what to prepare before travel. All foreign nationals (except citizens and residents) must obtain a visa before arriving in Nauru. There is no visa on arrival.

📋 Pre-Travel Checklist

• Check passport validity — must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay
• Confirm visa requirements for your nationality — Nauru has no visa-waiver agreements; every foreign national needs a visa
• Apply early — submit your visa application at least 4–6 weeks before your intended travel date
• Print or save all documents — visa grant letter, confirmed flight bookings, accommodation proof, and travel insurance
• Re-check rules close to departure — requirements can change with short notice; verify with Nauru Immigration before booking
• Prepare customs declarations — fresh food, plants, soil, and animal products are restricted; declare all biosecurity items

🛂 Visa Types

🔢 Step-by-Step Application Guide

Tourist or Business Visa Application

1. Contact Nauru Immigration — email the Acting Director of Immigration at least 4–6 weeks before your planned travel; there is no online visa portal or eVisa system
2. Request the application form — Nauru Immigration will send you a PDF visa application form by email
3. Gather supporting documents — valid passport (6+ months validity), two passport-sized photographs, completed application form, travel itinerary with confirmed flight bookings, proof of accommodation, evidence of sufficient funds (bank statements), return or onward ticket, and yellow fever vaccination certificate (if travelling from an endemic area)
4. For business visitors — also include a letter of invitation from a Nauru-based registered organisation
5. For media personnel — additional accreditation from the Government Information Office (GIO) is required before applying
6. Submit the completed application — return the form and all supporting documents to Nauru Immigration via email; keep copies of everything
7. Wait for processing — typical processing time is 2–6 weeks; response times vary depending on application volume
8. Receive your visa grant letter — upon approval, you will receive a visa grant letter (PDF) which you must present at check-in and on arrival in Nauru

Work Permit Application

1. Secure a job offer — a Nauru-based employer must sponsor your work permit application
2. Employer submits application — the employer files the work permit application with the Department of Immigration on your behalf
3. Provide your documents — valid passport, CV/resumé, copies of qualifications, police clearance from your country of residence, and medical examination report
4. Wait for approval — work permit processing typically takes 4–8 weeks; the Department may request additional information
5. Receive work permit + visa — if approved, you will be granted a work permit along with a corresponding visa to enter and remain in Nauru
6. Travel to Nauru — present your work permit approval and visa grant letter at check-in and on arrival; register with the Department of Immigration within 7 days of arrival

Visa Extension

1. Apply before your visa expires — submit an extension request to the Department of Immigration in Yaren at least 2 weeks before expiry
2. Provide a reason — include a written statement explaining why you need an extension (medical, travel disruption, ongoing business)
3. Pay the extension fee — fees are assessed per week of extension requested; confirm the current rate with Immigration
4. Receive decision — extensions are granted at the discretion of the Director of Immigration; overstaying is a serious offence

🧾 Required Documents Summary

🛬 On Arrival

Flights arrive at Nauru International Airport (INU), ~2 km from Yaren. Expect the following:

• Immigration Control — present your passport and visa grant letter; the officer will stamp your passport and confirm your visa duration
• Customs Declaration — complete the arrival customs form (handed out on the aircraft); declare any restricted items (food, plants, animal products, medications)
• Baggage Collection — collect luggage from the single carousel; biosecurity officers may inspect bags
• Transport to Accommodation — taxis are available outside the terminal; pre-booked hotel transfers are recommended

➡️ Next Steps