New Caledonia Visa Requirements
For 🇪🇸 Spain passport holders
Great news! Spain passport holders can enter New Caledonia without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
New Caledonia is a French overseas territory. Spanish citizens (as EU nationals) can visit for up to 90 days within 180 days without a visa, same as France.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
At least 1 page required
Multiple Entry
Allowed
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Valid passport or EU national ID card. Same requirements as France.
Subject to French immigration penalties.
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid
Tap Water
Safe to drink
Safety Tips
New Caledonia is generally safe. Petty crime exists in Nouméa - take normal precautions. Political tensions related to independence referendum have occasionally caused unrest. The outer islands are very safe. Healthcare is good with French-standard facilities.
Money & Costs
Currency
₣ CFP Franc (XPF)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $100 · Mid: $200 · Luxury: $500+
Tipping
Tipping is not expected (French custom), though appreciated for exceptional service.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, F, 220V 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
17 (Police), 18 (Fire), 15 (Medical)
Getting There
Main Airports
Nouméa (NOU) · Nouméa (GEA)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to November. September-November is ideal with pleasant temperatures and low rainfall. The wet season (December-April) brings higher temperatures, humidity, and cyclone risk.
Cultural Notes
New Caledonia has a unique blend of French and indigenous Kanak cultures. The Tjibaou Cultural Centre celebrates Kanak heritage. Independence remains a politically sensitive topic (referendums have been held). French cuisine meets tropical ingredients. The Kanak people have strong traditions of land connection.
Insider Tips
French is the official language; Kanak languages also spoken. The CFP Franc (XPF) is the currency, tied to the Euro. New Caledonia has French culture combined with Melanesian (Kanak) heritage. The lagoon is UNESCO World Heritage listed. It's expensive being a French territory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Spanish citizens need a visa for New Caledonia?
No, as EU citizens, Spaniards can visit New Caledonia (French territory) for up to 90 days within 180 days without a visa. A valid passport or EU national ID is sufficient. The same rules as France apply.
What is the UNESCO World Heritage lagoon?
New Caledonia's lagoons and barrier reef are UNESCO World Heritage listed for their exceptional biodiversity. The barrier reef is the world's second-longest (1,500km). The lagoons host dugongs, sea turtles, and diverse coral ecosystems. Diving and snorkeling are world-class.
What is the independence situation in New Caledonia?
New Caledonia has held three independence referendums (2018, 2020, 2021) as part of the Nouméa Accord, all narrowly favoring remaining French. The political situation remains sensitive between Kanak (indigenous) and Caldoche (European settler) communities. Occasional unrest occurs. Generally, tourism is not affected.
What is the Isle of Pines?
The Isle of Pines (Île des Pins) is a stunning island south of Grande Terre known for its araucaria (Cook pine) trees, white sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters. The natural swimming pools (Piscine Naturelle) are famous. It's New Caledonia's top beach destination. Day trips and overnight stays are possible.
What is the Tjibaou Cultural Centre?
The Tjibaou Cultural Centre in Nouméa is a masterpiece of modern architecture designed by Renzo Piano, inspired by traditional Kanak architecture. It celebrates Kanak culture and Pacific arts through exhibitions, performances, and gardens. Named after pro-independence leader Jean-Marie Tjibaou, it's culturally significant and architecturally stunning.