Papua New Guinea Visa RequirementsFor Canada passport holders
Canadian passport holders can obtain a visa on arrival in Papua New Guinea for up to 60 days, with a fee of approximately $100 USD. The Government of Canada advises a high degree of caution due to high crime rates and limited emergency services.
Canada passport holders can obtain a Visa on Arrival at Papua New Guinea ports of entry.
Present your valid Canadian passport at the port of entry and pay the visa fee (approximately $100 USD in cash, as card facilities may not always be available). You should carry a completed arrival form and have accommodation details, a return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds. The visa on arrival typically grants up to 60 days. Extensions can be applied for at the PNG Immigration and Citizenship Authority in Port Moresby. Some remote areas require a special permit obtained in advance through the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Canada to Papua New Guinea: What You Need to Know
Papua New Guinea (PNG) is one of the world's most culturally diverse countries, with over 800 distinct languages and a wealth of traditional cultures. It occupies the eastern half of New Guinea island in the southwestern Pacific. Canadian citizens receive a visa on arrival at Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby and at a limited number of other entry points. PNG offers extraordinary experiences for adventurous travelers: highland trekking, Sepik River cultural tours, world-class diving in Milne Bay, and the Kokoda Track. However, it is a challenging destination with limited tourism infrastructure outside of specialist lodges.
Practical Tips
Always use a reputable tour operator or lodge-based itinerary in PNG; independent budget travel is not advisable due to safety concerns. The PNG kina (PGK) is the local currency; USD is accepted at major hotels. Port Moresby has high crime rates; avoid walking alone after dark and use hotel-arranged transport. The Kokoda Track requires 7 to 10 days of demanding trekking and must be organized with a licensed operator. Vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid, and malaria prophylaxis are strongly recommended; consult a travel medicine clinic before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Canadians need a visa for Papua New Guinea?
Canadian citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby and some other entry points. The fee is approximately $100 USD, payable in cash. The visa on arrival grants up to 60 days.
Is Papua New Guinea safe for Canadian tourists?
The Government of Canada advises exercising a high degree of caution in Papua New Guinea due to high rates of violent crime, including armed robbery and carjacking in Port Moresby and other urban areas. Outside of well-organized lodge-based tours, independent travel carries significant risks. Always use reputable, registered tour operators.
What vaccinations are required or recommended for Papua New Guinea?
Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended for most of Papua New Guinea. Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever (if arriving from a country with yellow fever), and routine vaccinations. Consult a travel medicine clinic at least 6 to 8 weeks before departure.
What are the top experiences in Papua New Guinea?
The Kokoda Track (a 96-km WWII historical trekking route), diving in Milne Bay and around Rabaul (including WWII wrecks), highlands cultural festivals (Goroka Show, Mount Hagen Cultural Show), and Sepik River cultural immersion tours are the main attractions. All require advance planning with licensed operators.