Tuvalu visas
Whether you need a visa for Tuvalu depends on your nationality and the purpose and length of your visit. Short-term visitors are generally issued a Visitor's Permit on arrival, while anyone coming to work, study, do business, conduct research, join family or stay long term must obtain a Permit to Enter and Reside before or on arrival. Immigration is administered by the Principal Immigration Officer within the Government of Tuvalu's Immigration Department under the Immigration Act and the Immigration Regulations 2014.
Tuvaluan visa categories
Explore visa categories by the purpose of your trip.
- Visitor & short-stay visasShort stays in Tuvalu — tourism, visiting family or friends, business visits and transit, plus any visa-free or e-visa options.2 visas
- Work visasComing to Tuvalu to work — the employment and skilled-worker routes and the permits they require.1 visa
- Study visasStudying in Tuvalu — student visas and permits for accepted students.1 visa
- Family visasJoining or sponsoring a partner, child or other relative in Tuvalu.1 visa
- Business & investor visasInvesting, doing business or coming to Tuvalu as a highly skilled individual.3 visas
- Residence & citizenshipLiving in Tuvalu long term — residence routes and, where available, the path to citizenship.2 visas
Tuvaluan visa application at a glance
From start to finish in five simple steps.
- 01Choose the right visa
- 02Check eligibility & documents
- 03Apply online
- 04Provide biometrics
- 05Wait for a decision
Who needs a visa to Tuvalu?
According to the legislation, nationals of all countries other than those in the Schengen Area are obliged to get a visa before travelling to Tuvalu. Visas are acquired at the airport and are valid for a maximum of one month after being granted. All visitors are required to have a passport that is valid for at least six months. Tuvalu is a visa-required destination for all foreign nationals with the exception of those from the Schengen Area and Taiwan.
Entry into Tuvalu
Please ensure your passport has a minimum 3 months remaining validity to ensure no problems when entering Tuvalu. You are encouraged to keep checking the embassy website and any additional websites you may need for updates on information regarding your travel closer to the time.
Requirements to apply for a Tuvalu Visa
You need the following:
- Possess a passport valid for at least six months upon entry, with at least one visa page remaining blank.
- Maintain evidence of sufficient funds.
- Hold documentation of your onward and return flights.
- Maintain documentation proving the purpose of your trip.
- Hold all necessary travel documents for your next destination.
Appointment Waiting Times
Waiting times for an appointment at the visa office can vary depending on time of year and your country of residence.
Who Can Visit Tuvalu Without a Visa?
Citizens of the Schengen area and Taiwan. The agreement exempts citizens of the EU and the Schengen area from the need to obtain a visa to enter the country. According to Tuvalu's visa policy, Schengen travellers are exempt from visa requirements and are permitted to stay on the islands for up to 90 days within 180 days.
Tuvalu — key facts
- Visa authority
- Immigration Department, Government of Tuvalu (Principal Immigration Officer)
- Application
- Online (in most cases)
- Biometrics
- Usually required
- Currency
- Australian dollar (AUD) — Tuvalu also issues its own Tuvaluan dollar coins circulating at par with the AUD
- Time zone
- Tuvalu Time (TVT), UTC+12
Tuvaluan visas — people also ask
All citizens of the world are able to apply for a Tuvalu Visa on Arrival.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.