United States Visa RequirementsFor Vanuatu passport holders
Citizens of Vanuatu must obtain a B1/B2 visa before entering the United States. There is no US Embassy in Vanuatu, so applicants typically apply at the US Embassy in Canberra, Australia or Port Moresby, PNG. The $185 MRV fee and in-person interview are required.
Vanuatu passport holders require a visa to enter United States.
There is no US Embassy in Vanuatu. Apply at the US Embassy in Canberra, Australia (Moonah Place, Yarralumla) or the US Embassy in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Complete the DS-160 at ceac.state.gov, pay the $185 MRV fee, and schedule your interview. Note that transit through Australia may require an Australian ETA.
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 in Canberra or Port Moresby
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
Vanuatu to United States: What You Need to Know
Vanuatu is a Pacific Island nation with no direct US Embassy presence. Vanuatu has a citizenship-by-investment program that has sold many passports, so some Vanuatu passport holders may be relatively new citizens with primary ties elsewhere. The US is aware of this dynamic. Vanuatu is not in the US Visa Waiver Program, and applicants must travel to Australia or Papua New Guinea for their visa interview. Australian transit visa requirements may apply if transiting Australia, which should be checked in advance.
How to Get There
There are no direct flights from Vanuatu (VLI) to the United States. The typical route goes via Brisbane (BNE) or Sydney (SYD) in Australia using Qantas, Virgin Australia, or Air Vanuatu, then connecting to Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), or Honolulu (HNL). Total travel time is approximately 20 to 26 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. If transiting Australia, Australian dollars will be needed for any layover purchases.
Practical Tips
Check current interview wait times at travel.state.gov/waitingtimes. If you hold a Vanuatu citizenship-by-investment passport, be prepared to demonstrate genuine ties to Vanuatu and the purpose of your US travel. Bring comprehensive documentation. Factor in travel to Australia or PNG for the interview, including any Australian visa requirements for transit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Vanuatu citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
Yes. Vanuatu passport holders require a B1/B2 nonimmigrant visa to enter the United States. Vanuatu is not in the US Visa Waiver Program. Note: Vanuatu has a citizenship by investment program, so not all Vanuatu passport holders are long-term residents.
Where do Vanuatu citizens apply for a US visa?
There is no US Embassy in Vanuatu. Apply at the US Embassy in Canberra, Australia (Moonah Place, Yarralumla) or the US Embassy in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Travel to Australia or PNG is required for the interview. Complete DS-160 at ceac.state.gov and pay the $185 MRV fee.
Do I need an Australian visa to attend the US Embassy in Canberra?
Yes. If you choose to apply at the US Embassy in Canberra, you will need an Australian visa or ETA to enter Australia. Check Australian visa requirements for Vanuatu citizens at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before applying.
I have a Vanuatu passport obtained through citizenship by investment. Will the US consulate scrutinize my application more?
Consular officers are aware of citizenship by investment programs. If you obtained your Vanuatu passport through investment rather than birth or long-term residence, be prepared to clearly explain your genuine ties to Vanuatu and your legitimate purpose of travel to the US.
What airlines fly from Vanuatu to the United States?
There are no direct flights. From Port Vila (VLI), routes go via Brisbane (BNE) or Sydney (SYD) using Qantas or Air Vanuatu, then to Los Angeles (LAX) or Honolulu (HNL). Total travel time is approximately 20 to 26 hours.
How long can Vanuatu citizens stay in the US on a tourist visa?
CBP determines the authorized stay at the port of entry, typically up to 6 months.