United States Visa RequirementsFor Papua New Guinea passport holders
Citizens of Papua New Guinea must obtain a B1/B2 visa to enter the United States. The US Embassy in Port Moresby processes applications, and the non-refundable $185 MRV fee and an in-person interview are required.
Papua New Guinea passport holders require a visa to enter United States.
Apply at the US Embassy in Port Moresby (Douglas Street, adjacent to the Bank of Papua New Guinea). Complete the DS-160 form at ceac.state.gov, pay the $185 MRV fee, and schedule your interview. The fee is non-refundable.
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
Required Documents
DS-160 application form
Completed online at ceac.state.gov before scheduling interview
Valid passport
At least 6 months validity beyond intended stay
MRV fee receipt
$185 USD non-refundable visa application fee
Passport photo
2x2 inch (51x51mm), white background, taken within last 6 months
Interview appointment confirmation
Scheduled at the US Embassy website
Proof of financial means
Bank statements, pay stubs, or tax returns showing ability to fund trip
Proof of ties to home country
Employment letter, property documents, family ties, or enrollment proof
Travel itinerary Recommended
Intended dates and purpose of travel to the US
Current Travel Situation
Papua New Guinea to United States: What You Need to Know
Papua New Guinea and the United States have growing diplomatic ties, particularly as the US seeks to strengthen its presence in the Pacific region as a counterbalance to Chinese influence. PNG is not in the US Visa Waiver Program, so all Papua New Guinean citizens must apply for a B1/B2 visa. The US Embassy in Port Moresby handles applications. Given PNG's size and developing economy, travel to the US is relatively uncommon, but business, academic, and government travel is increasing.
How to Get There
There are no direct flights from Papua New Guinea to the United States. The typical routing goes through Brisbane (BNE) or Sydney (SYD) in Australia via Air Niugini or Qantas, then connecting to Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), or Honolulu (HNL) via United, Qantas, or American Airlines. Total travel time to the US west coast is approximately 20 to 24 hours.
Money & Banking
The US uses the dollar. In the US, tipping is expected: 15 to 20% at restaurants, $1 to $2 for hotel porters. Credit cards are universally accepted. Budget at least $150 to $200 per day in major US cities. Note that if transiting through Australia, you may need an Australian ETA or transit visa, which is an additional cost to factor in.
Practical Tips
Check current interview wait times at travel.state.gov/waitingtimes. Complete the DS-160 carefully with all details consistent with your documentation. Bring strong evidence of ties to PNG: employment contracts, property, bank statements, and family documentation. Business and government travelers should bring supporting letters from their organization. Note that flights to the US require connections through Australia, which may require an Australian transit visa depending on your nationality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Papua New Guinea citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
Yes. Papua New Guinean passport holders require a B1/B2 nonimmigrant visa to enter the United States. PNG is not in the US Visa Waiver Program.
Where do Papua New Guineans apply for a US visa?
At the US Embassy in Port Moresby, located at Douglas Street, adjacent to the Bank of Papua New Guinea. Complete DS-160 at ceac.state.gov, pay the $185 MRV fee, and schedule your interview.
What airlines fly from Papua New Guinea to the United States?
There are no direct flights from PNG to the US. The typical route goes via Brisbane (BNE) or Sydney (SYD) in Australia using Air Niugini or Qantas, then connecting to Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), or Honolulu (HNL) via United, Qantas, or American. Total travel time is approximately 20 to 24 hours.
Do I need an Australian visa to transit through Australia when going to the US?
If transiting through Australian airports, you may need an Australian ETA or transit visa depending on your nationality and layover duration. PNG citizens should check Australian visa requirements well in advance, as an Australian transit visa may be needed.
How much does the US visa cost for PNG applicants?
The non-refundable MRV fee is $185 USD, paid before scheduling your interview.
How do I demonstrate ties to Papua New Guinea for the US visa?
Bring employment contracts or government appointment letters, property documents, bank statements, and family documentation. Government officials and academic or business travelers should bring institutional letters supporting their US travel purpose.
How long can Papua New Guineans stay in the US on a B1/B2 visa?
CBP sets your authorized stay at the port of entry, typically up to 6 months. If approved, visas are generally valid for multiple entries over 10 years.