Visitor & short-stay visas
Tongan Visitor's Visa (Visa on Arrival / Visa-Free Entry)
For travellers from visa-exempt nationalities coming for tourism, visiting family and friends, or attending conferences, issued free on arrival.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Tonga government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Visitor's Visa
- Route type
- Short-stay visitor entry (visa-free / visa on arrival for eligible nationalities)
- Cost
- Free on arrival for visa-exempt nationalities
- Advance entry visas obtained through an embassy carry a processing fee.
- Stay granted
- Up to 31 days for most visa-free nationalities; longer for some (e.g. Schengen/EU nationalities)
- Day counts vary by nationality.
- Extensions
- Extendable up to 6 months for a fee
- Passport validity
- At least 6 months
Who it is for
- Tourists and holidaymakers
- People visiting family or friends for a short stay
- Attendees of government workshops, conferences or aid-project activities
- Business travellers making a short scoping visit (who must notify Immigration of their business intention and cannot conduct business on this visa)
Requirements
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- A valid onward or return ticket to a country you are permitted to enter
- Evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself during the stay
- Proof of accommodation in Tonga
- For advance applications: completed visa form, recent passport photo, and reason for visit
What you can do
- Travel and sightsee across Tonga
- Visit family and friends
- Attend conferences, workshops and government-related events
- You may NOT take up employment, run a business or study on this visa
How to apply
- Visa-exempt nationals: obtain the Visitor's Visa on arrival from a Customs officer
- Visa-required nationals: apply for an entry visa in advance through a Tongan diplomatic mission or the Immigration Division (email tongapermit@gmail.com)
- To extend, apply at an Immigration office in Nuku'alofa or Neiafu before your current visa expires
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.