Every visitor to Papua New Guinea needs a valid visa and a passport with at least six months of validity. Whether you plan to explore the highlands, dive in Kimbe Bay, or attend a business meeting in Port Moresby, you must secure your entry document before arrival. This guide covers all the PNG visa requirements you need to know: documents, eligibility, fees, and the step-by-step process for getting your eVisa approved.
Who Needs a Visa for Papua New Guinea?
Citizens of nearly every country require a visa to enter Papua New Guinea. There is no broad visa-free regime, but a few pathways simplify the process:
- Easy Visitor Permit (EVP): Available to citizens of select countries (including Australia, New Zealand, the US, UK, Canada, Japan, and most EU nations). Costs USD 50, allows a stay of up to 60 days, and can be obtained online through the PNG eVisa portal.
- Visa on Arrival: Citizens of all Pacific Island states and certain other countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Port Moresby International Airport (Jacksons International Airport) and the Wutung land border post.
- Tourist Visa: Citizens of countries not eligible for the EVP can apply for a Tourist Visa online. It costs USD 50, is valid for 6 months, and allows stays of up to 60 days. This visa can be extended.
Chinese passport holders may obtain a visa on arrival only when entering PNG on a group tour arranged through a travel agency registered in Papua New Guinea.
To learn about the full application process, see our complete PNG visa application guide.
Core PNG Visa Requirements: Documents Checklist
Before applying for any PNG visa, make sure you have the following documents ready:
1. Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Papua New Guinea. Ensure it has at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. Damaged or heavily worn passports may be rejected at the border.
2. Passport-Size Photograph
You need a recent passport-sized photograph (typically 35mm x 45mm) taken within the last six months. The photo must show a clear, front-facing view of your face against a white or light-coloured background. No hats, sunglasses, or head coverings (unless for religious reasons).
3. Completed Application Form
The PNG eVisa application is completed entirely online through the Immigration and Citizenship Authority (ICA) portal at evisa.ica.gov.pg. You will need to provide:
- Full name as it appears on your passport
- Date and place of birth
- Nationality and passport number
- Intended date of arrival and departure
- Accommodation details in PNG
- Purpose of visit
For a step-by-step walkthrough, visit our how to apply for a PNG visa online guide.
4. Proof of Accommodation
You must provide evidence of where you will stay in Papua New Guinea. Acceptable documents include:
- Hotel booking confirmation
- Invitation letter from a host in PNG
- Letter from a tour operator (for package tours)
5. Return or Onward Flight Ticket
Immigration officials may ask for proof that you intend to leave PNG within your visa validity period. A return flight ticket or onward travel booking satisfies this requirement.
6. Proof of Sufficient Funds
While not always checked, you should be prepared to show that you have enough money to cover your stay. Bank statements or credit cards are generally accepted as proof.
7. Travel Insurance
Strongly recommended. Medical facilities in PNG are limited, and serious illness or injury typically requires evacuation to Australia. Make sure your policy covers medical evacuation.
PNG Visa Fees
All eVisa applications to Papua New Guinea cost USD 50 regardless of visa type. Here is a breakdown of the main visa categories and their fees:
| Visa Type | Fee (USD) | Duration of Stay | Entry Type | Extendable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Easy Visitor Permit | 50 | 30-60 days | Single | No |
| Tourist Visa – Own Itinerary | 50 | Up to 60 days | Single | Yes |
| Tourist Visa – Tour Package | 50 | Up to 60 days | Single | Yes |
| Business Visa | 50 | Varies | Single | Yes |
| Transit Visa | 50 | Up to 7 days | Single | No |
The fee is paid online during the eVisa application process. Accepted payment methods typically include credit and debit cards. For a full breakdown of costs, see our PNG visa fee guide.
PNG Visa on Arrival: Countries and Eligibility
Not all travellers need to apply online before their trip. Papua New Guinea offers visas on arrival at select entry points to citizens of the following groups:
Pacific Island States
All passport holders from Pacific Island states are eligible for a visa on arrival at authorized ports of entry, including Jacksons International Airport and the Wutung land border post. This applies to citizens of countries such as Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and other Pacific nations.
Other Eligible Countries
Several other countries have bilateral agreements with PNG that allow visa-on-arrival access. Check the PNG Immigration and Citizenship Authority website or the eVisa portal for the most current list of eligible nationalities.
APEC Business Travel Card Holders
If you hold an APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) with a “PNG” code on the reverse side, you can enter Papua New Guinea without a separate visa for business trips lasting up to 60 days. This applies to citizens of APEC member economies including Australia, China, Japan, South Korea, the US, and others.
For more details on visa-free and simplified entry options, see our guide to PNG visa-free countries.
PNG eVisa Application Process
The easiest way to obtain a PNG visa is through the online eVisa system. Here is how the process works:
Step 1: Visit the Official eVisa Portal
Go to evisa.ica.gov.pg and create an account. The portal is managed by the Papua New Guinea Immigration and Citizenship Authority (ICA).
Step 2: Select Your Visa Type
Choose the appropriate visa category based on your purpose of visit:
- Easy Visitor Permit – for eligible nationalities visiting for tourism
- Tourist Visa (Own Itinerary) – for independent travellers from non-EVP countries
- Tourist Visa (Tour Package) – for group tourists
- Business Visa – for business meetings, conferences, and trade activities
- Employment Visa – for those with a PNG job offer or work permit
- Transit Visa – for travellers passing through PNG to another destination
Step 3: Fill in Your Details
Complete all required fields in the online form. Double-check your passport number, dates, and personal information to avoid delays or rejection.
Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
Scan and upload your passport bio page, passport photo, proof of accommodation, and return/onward ticket. Files must be clear and legible.
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the USD 50 application fee online using a credit or debit card.
Step 6: Wait for Processing
Most eVisa applications are processed within a few business days. You will receive an email notification when your visa is approved. Print the approval letter or save it on your phone to present at check-in and immigration.
For the complete step-by-step walkthrough, visit our PNG visa application guide.
PNG Digital Arrival Card Requirement
In addition to your visa, Papua New Guinea now requires all incoming travellers to complete a Digital Arrival Card (DAC). You can fill this out online up to 72 hours before your arrival through the ICA website. The DAC collects basic travel and health information and speeds up immigration processing at the airport.
Make sure to complete the DAC before your flight to avoid delays at immigration.
Passport Requirements for PNG Entry
Your passport is the single most important document for entering Papua New Guinea. The key requirements are:
- Validity: At least 6 months remaining from your intended date of entry
- Blank pages: At least 2 blank pages for entry and exit stamps
- Condition: No significant damage, water stains, or torn pages
- Name match: Your passport name must exactly match your eVisa application
If your passport does not meet these requirements, you will be denied boarding by your airline or turned away at immigration. For more on passport rules, see our PNG passport requirements guide.
PNG Green Fee
A PGK 50 Green Fee (approximately USD 14) has been introduced as a carbon offset for all international travellers departing Papua New Guinea. This fee is paid at the airport when you leave the country. Budget for this cost as part of your trip expenses.
Important Travel Considerations
Health and Safety
Papua New Guinea experiences interruptions to essential services including water and power. Medical facilities are limited, and serious illness or injury may require evacuation to Australia. Common health risks include:
- Malaria, dengue, and other mosquito-borne diseases
- Tuberculosis
- Waterborne parasites (drink bottled or boiled water)
Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations before travel.
Security
Exercise a high degree of caution in PNG due to high levels of serious crime. The Australian government advises against travel to parts of the Western Highlands, Southern Highlands, Hela, and Enga Provinces due to security concerns.
Local Laws
Same-sex relationships are illegal in PNG. Adultery and possessing pornography are also illegal. Dress and behaviour standards are conservative. Always ask permission before photographing people or cultural sites.
Frequently Asked Questions About PNG Visa Requirements
Do US citizens need a visa for Papua New Guinea?
Yes. US citizens must obtain a visa before travelling to PNG. They are eligible for the Easy Visitor Permit (EVP), which costs USD 50, allows a stay of up to 60 days, and can be obtained online through the PNG eVisa portal.
Can I get a PNG visa on arrival?
Citizens of Pacific Island states and certain other countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Jacksons International Airport and the Wutung land border post. However, most travellers are advised to apply for their eVisa online before departure to avoid delays.
How long does a PNG visa take to process?
Most eVisa applications are processed within a few business days. However, processing times can vary depending on the visa type and application volume. Apply at least one to two weeks before your planned travel date.
How much does a Papua New Guinea visa cost?
All eVisa applications cost USD 50, regardless of visa type. This fee is paid online during the application process. There is also a PGK 50 Green Fee charged upon departure from PNG.
What is the Easy Visitor Permit?
The Easy Visitor Permit (EVP) is a simplified visa available to citizens of select countries including Australia, New Zealand, the US, UK, Canada, Japan, and most EU nations. It costs USD 50, allows a stay of up to 60 days, is single entry, and cannot be extended.
How long can I stay in Papua New Guinea with a tourist visa?
A PNG Tourist Visa allows stays of up to 60 days. Unlike the Easy Visitor Permit, a Tourist Visa can be extended if you need more time. Contact the PNG Immigration and Citizenship Authority for extension procedures.
Do I need a transit visa for Papua New Guinea?
If you are passing through PNG to another destination and will not leave the international transit area, you may not need a transit visa. However, if you plan to leave the airport or your layover exceeds the allowed transit time, you will need a transit visa (USD 50, valid for up to 7 days).
What is the PNG Digital Arrival Card?
The Digital Arrival Card (DAC) is an online form that all incoming travellers to PNG must complete up to 72 hours before arrival. It collects travel and health information and is required in addition to your visa.
Can Indian citizens get a visa on arrival in PNG?
Indian citizens are not currently eligible for visa on arrival. However, India and PNG have signed a visa waiver agreement for diplomatic and official passport holders. Indian citizens with ordinary passports must apply for a Tourist Visa through the PNG eVisa portal. See our guide on [PNG visa for Indian citizens](https://evisa-papuanewguinea.info/papua-new-guinea-visa-for-indian-citizens/) for detailed requirements.
Do Australian citizens need a visa for Papua New Guinea?
Yes. Australian citizens need a visa to enter PNG. They are eligible for the Easy Visitor Permit, which costs USD 50 and allows stays of up to 60 days. The application is completed entirely online through the PNG eVisa portal.
