Palau visas

Palau Visa

All travellers to the Republic of Palau must comply with entry regulations administered by the Bureau of Immigration and, where relevant, the Ministry of Health & Human Services. Review the requirements below and prepare all supporting documents—passport, proof of funds, onward ticket, and any health certificates—before departure. Verify details with your nearest Palauan diplomatic mission or the Palau Immigration Division.

Entry into Palau

• Temperature Checks and Health Questionnaires: Border officials may conduct temperature checks or brief health questionnaires at their discretion, especially during public health emergencies or heightened health alerts. However, these are not standard requirements under current policies.
• Yellow Fever Certificate: Required only for travellers arriving from, or transiting more than 12 hours through, WHO-designated yellow fever risk areas. This is a standard international health regulation and remains in effect.
• Other Health Requirements: Cholera and yellow fever immunisations may be required for those arriving from affected areas. Always check for updates before travel.
• Palau Pledge: All visitors must sign the Palau Pledge, which is usually included in the immigration process and/or the Palau Entry Form, acknowledging sustainable-tourism obligations.
• Pristine Paradise Environmental Fee (PPEF): A fee of USD 100 is automatically included in most airline tickets for all visitors, except diplomats and transit passengers (who are eligible for a refund upon presentation of their passport and travel itinerary showing payment). Keep your boarding pass or receipt as proof of payment.
• Return or Onward Ticket: All travellers must hold a round-trip or onward ticket that shows departure within their authorised stay (typically the initial 30 days or approved extension).
• Financial Evidence: Travellers may be required to demonstrate adequate financial resources to support their stay (typically around USD $200 per week).

Who Needs a Visa to Visit Palau?

• Visa on Arrival (VoA): Citizens of all countries except Myanmar and Bangladesh are eligible for a visa on arrival valid for 30 days.
• Extension: The initial 30-day VoA may be extended twice (total stay up to 90 days) at the Immigration Office; each extension requires a fee.
• Proof of Funds: VoA applicants must present evidence of minimum funds of USD 200 per week of intended stay.
• Visa Required in Advance: Nationals of Myanmar and Bangladesh must obtain a visa prior to travel by applying to a Palauan embassy or honorary consulate.

Eligibility Criteria for a Palau Visa (or VoA)

To enter Palau, travellers must meet certain eligibility conditions and provide relevant documentation upon arrival or when applying for a visa. These may include:

• Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure date and presented at immigration.
• Proof of Funds: Bank statements, cash, or credit cards demonstrating USD 200 per week of stay.
• Onward/Return Ticket: Confirmed and dated within the authorised stay.
• Accommodation: Hotel booking or written invitation from a Palauan sponsor.
• Yellow Fever Certificate: If arriving from a designated risk country.
• Additional Documents: Immigration officials may request evidence of purpose of visit or health insurance.

Visa Processing Time (Pre-Arranged Visas)

• Standard processing: Palau visas applied for in advance are typically issued within 14 working days after the Immigration Division receives a complete application package.
• Delays: Incomplete documentation, peak seasonal demand, or additional background checks may extend processing.
• Recommendation: Submit applications at least six weeks before planned travel if you require a pre-arranged visa (e.g., Myanmar or Bangladesh nationals).

Appointment Waiting Times

Who Can Visit Palau Without a Visa?

Nationals of the following countries may enter Palau without a visa in advance and will be issued a Visa on Arrival valid for 30 days (extendable twice):

• Most applicants do not require an in-person appointment; documentation is usually submitted by courier or email.
• Where an interview is mandated by a local honorary consulate, applicants should expect 3–5 working days to obtain the next available slot.
• Always verify appointment needs with the nearest Palauan embassy or consular representative.
• Austria
• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Israel
• Italy
• Latvia
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Marshall Islands
• Micronesia
• Netherlands
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Russia
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• United States of America
• All other nationalities except Myanmar and Bangladesh are also eligible for Visa on Arrival.

If Your Palau Visa Is Refused

Travellers eligible for a Visa on Arrival should still carry proof of funds, onward travel, and accommodation. Nationals of Myanmar and Bangladesh must apply at least six weeks in advance. All visitors must sign the Palau Pledge and ensure the USD 100 Environmental Fee is paid. Confirm flight schedules and entry permissions with your airline before departure.

• A written notice outlining the grounds for refusal will be issued by the reviewing authority.
• Applicants may submit a new application addressing the stated deficiencies; the visa fee is payable again.
• The decision may be challenged by formal written appeal to the Bureau of Immigration; supporting evidence must accompany the appeal.
• No guarantee of approval is given, even on reapplication; ensure documentation is complete and meets all eligibility criteria.