Palau Visa Requirements
For 🇪🇸 Spain passport holders
Great news! Spain passport holders can enter Palau without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 30 days within any 180-day period.
Spanish citizens can enter Palau without a visa for stays up to 30 days. Palau is famous for its world-class diving and pristine marine environment. Extensions are possible up to 90 days.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
1 page(s) required
Multiple Entry
Allowed
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity, return ticket, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds. Pristine Paradise Environmental Fee ($100) required.
Fines and potential complications at departure.
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid
Tap Water
Safe to drink
Safety Tips
Palau is extremely safe with virtually no crime against tourists. The main concerns are water safety (currents, jellyfish) and sun exposure. Healthcare facilities are limited - travel insurance with evacuation coverage is essential. The environment is pristine and protected.
Money & Costs
Currency
$ US Dollar (USD)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $100 · Mid: $200 · Luxury: $500+
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated. 10-15% in restaurants. Tips for dive guides expected.
Practical Info
Power
Type A, B, 120V 60Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
911 (Emergency)
Getting There
Main Airports
Airai (ROR)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
Palau has tropical weather year-round with temperatures of 27-30°C. The dry season from November to April is slightly preferable. February to April offers the best visibility for diving. There is no distinct wet season - rain can occur anytime.
Cultural Notes
Palau has a matrilineal society with traditional chiefs (rubekul) still influential. Ancient stone monoliths and traditional bai (meeting houses) showcase the culture. The Ngardmau waterfall and stone faces are cultural sites. Palauan culture emphasizes respect for nature, which influences modern environmental policies.
Insider Tips
English and Palauan are official languages. The US Dollar is the currency. Palau is expensive - it's a remote luxury destination. The Palau Pledge is a promise to protect the environment stamped in passports. Reef-safe sunscreen is encouraged. Diving and snorkeling are the main activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Palau Pledge?
The Palau Pledge is an environmental promise stamped in visitor passports. It commits travelers to "act in an ecologically responsible way for the sake of Palau's children and future generations." Palau pioneered this initiative to protect its marine environment. Visitors sign the pledge at immigration.
Why is diving in Palau so famous?
Palau consistently ranks among the world's top dive destinations. The Rock Islands offer over 60 dive sites with incredible visibility, diverse marine life (over 1,500 fish species, 700 coral species), WWII wrecks, and unique experiences like Blue Corner's shark encounters. Jellyfish Lake (when open) offers swimming with millions of non-stinging jellyfish.
What is Jellyfish Lake?
Jellyfish Lake is a marine lake containing millions of golden jellyfish that have evolved without stingers. Swimming among them is otherworldly. The lake occasionally closes due to jellyfish population fluctuations (linked to El Niño). When open, it's one of Palau's most unique experiences. Only snorkeling is allowed.
How expensive is Palau?
Palau is an expensive destination. Budget accommodation starts at $80-100/night, mid-range $150-250. Diving packages are the main expense at $150-200/day. Food costs $15-40 per meal at restaurants. The $100 Pristine Paradise Environmental Fee is mandatory. Budget at least $200-300/day for a comfortable visit.
Do I need diving certification for Palau?
Many of Palau's best dive sites are appropriate for certified divers of various levels. Open water certification is minimum for most sites. Advanced certification is recommended for drift dives like Blue Corner. Non-divers can enjoy excellent snorkeling at many sites including the Rock Islands and (when open) Jellyfish Lake.