Solomon Islands Visa RequirementsFor United States passport holders
US citizens can obtain a visa on arrival in the Solomon Islands, valid for up to 90 days. This remote South Pacific archipelago is one of the world's top WWII history and diving destinations , the site of the Guadalcanal campaign. Visitor infrastructure is basic but improving.
United States passport holders can obtain a Visa on Arrival at Solomon Islands ports of entry.
No advance visa application needed. Arrive at Honiara International Airport (HIR) with your valid US passport, return or onward flight ticket, proof of accommodation (hotel or host contact), and evidence of sufficient funds. A visa is stamped on arrival for up to 90 days at no charge. A departure tax applies and may need to be paid in local currency (SBD) , check current requirements with your airline.
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
Valid US Passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date with at least 2 blank pages
Passport-size Photos
Two recent color photos (2x2 inches or 35x45mm). Bring extra copies as requirements may vary
Completed Arrival Card
Immigration arrival/departure card provided on flight or at port of entry
Proof of Accommodation
Hotel reservation, booking confirmation, or address where you will be staying
Return or Onward Flight Ticket
Confirmed flight booking showing departure from the country within visa validity
Visa Fee (Cash)
Payment for visa on arrival fee - bring exact amount in USD or local currency
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
Cash, credit cards, or bank statements showing adequate funds for your stay
Travel Insurance Recommended
Recommended coverage for medical emergencies during your trip
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Malaria prophylaxis (essential), Japanese Encephalitis
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
The Solomon Islands are generally safe but caution is needed. Honiara has petty crime - avoid displaying valuables. Ethnic tensions in the past led to unrest but the situation is calm. Remote islands are very safe. Tropical health risks exist. Infrastructure is basic outside Honiara.
Money & Costs
Currency
SI$ Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $60 · Mid: $120 · Luxury: $250+
Tipping
Tipping is not expected but appreciated for good service.
Practical Info
Power
Type G, I, 230V 50Hz
Driving
Left side
Emergency
999 (Police)
Getting There
Main Airports
Honiara (HIR) · Munda (MUA)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is during the dry season from April to November. The wet season (December-March) brings heavy rain and cyclone risk. Temperatures are consistently warm (26-30°C) year-round. April-May and September-October offer good weather and diving conditions.
Cultural Notes
The Solomon Islands have rich Melanesian cultures with over 70 languages. Traditional customs (kastom) remain important. Skull shrines and tambu (sacred) sites exist on some islands. Wood carving and shell money are traditional crafts. Christianity is widespread but blends with traditional beliefs.
Insider Tips
English is the official language; Pijin is widely spoken. The Solomon Islands Dollar is the currency. The islands were scene of fierce WWII fighting (Guadalcanal). Diving on WWII wrecks is a major attraction. Infrastructure is limited. Village stays offer authentic experiences. Bring cash as ATMs are rare.
Current Travel Situation
United States to Solomon Islands: What You Need to Know
The Solomon Islands welcomes US citizens with a visa on arrival at Honiara International Airport (HIR) on Guadalcanal Island. The visa is granted for up to 90 days and is free of charge for short tourism stays. The Solomon Islands is a developing Pacific island nation with significant WWII history, extraordinary diving and snorkeling, and rich Melanesian culture. Tourism infrastructure is limited compared to Fiji or Vanuatu , this is off-the-beaten-track Pacific travel.
How to Get There
Getting to the Solomon Islands from the US typically involves routing through Brisbane (Australia) or Honiara via Air Solomon Islands, Air Niugini, or Fiji Airways. Solomon Airlines connects Honiara (HIR) to Brisbane (BNE), Nadi (Fiji), and Port Moresby (Papua New Guinea). From the US, fly to Brisbane or Nadi and connect. Total journey from the US West Coast: approximately 20–28 hours.
Money & Banking
The Solomon Islands uses the Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD). ATMs are available in Honiara but limited elsewhere. Credit cards accepted at major hotels but cash is essential for local markets, transport, and outer island travel. The economy is largely cash-based. USD is not widely accepted outside of top hotels , exchange at banks in Honiara.
Practical Tips
The Solomon Islands' highlights: Guadalcanal (Bloody Ridge, Iron Bottom Sound WWII wrecks, Guadalcanal American Memorial), the Florida Islands (excellent snorkeling), Gizo (world-class dive sites, Skull Island), the Marovo Lagoon (UNESCO tentative list, largest lagoon in the Pacific), and traditional kastom (custom) villages. The WWII history is extraordinary , hundreds of aircraft and ships rest on the seafloor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do US citizens need a visa for the Solomon Islands?
No advance visa is required. US passport holders receive a free visa on arrival at Honiara International Airport (HIR) for up to 90 days.
How do I fly to the Solomon Islands from the US?
Route via Brisbane (Australia) or Nadi (Fiji) to Honiara (HIR). Solomon Airlines connects Honiara to Brisbane and Nadi. From the US West Coast, expect approximately 20–28 hours total travel time.
Why visit the Solomon Islands?
The Solomons offer extraordinary WWII history (Guadalcanal campaign, Iron Bottom Sound wrecks), world-class diving, the vast Marovo Lagoon, and authentic Melanesian culture largely untouched by mass tourism.
Is the Solomon Islands safe for American tourists?
The main island of Guadalcanal and Gizo are generally safe for tourists. Normal precautions apply in Honiara. The country is remote and medical facilities are limited — comprehensive travel insurance is essential.
Is the Solomon Islands suitable for non-divers?
Yes. WWII history, traditional village visits, the Marovo Lagoon, and Solomon Islands' stunning above-water scenery all appeal to non-divers. However, the diving and snorkeling here is among the Pacific's best.