Fiji FAQs

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Written by
Keith Jarman, Rachel O'Leary, Ellie Khoury & Charlie Morris

Published on: March 22nd, 2017

Last modified: July 26th, 2023

We've compiled our list of most frequently asked questions to help you get prepared before your big adventure to Fiji. Please read through the questions, using the navigation bar on the left hand side of your page to move easily between the different sections.

Please note that requirements and advice can change so we do recommend you check in with your own travel insurer, doctor and relevant local embassies before embarking on your adventure.

Are there any entry requirements for Fiji?

 

Visas

Most nationalities do not require a visa to enter Fiji on vacation. However, if your stay is over 4 months then you will need a visa and with the corresponding paperwork.

Passports

It is however important to have a passport that’s valid for 6 months from the date you enter Fiji and you must have one blank page in your passport, for the relevant immigration stamps.

If a member of your party changes their name in their passport after booking (for example, through marriage or adoption) this could mean having to reissue important parts of the trip at an extra cost and subject to availability. 

Please note that requirements can change and we recommend that our guests contact the local embassy in the country where you live for the most recent and up to date information.

We will confirm certain elements of your trip such as domestic flights, permits or train tickets using your current passport details. If a member of your party changes their name in their passport after booking (for example, through marriage or adoption) this could mean having to reissue important parts of the trip at an extra cost and subject to availability. 

Additional information

It is an entry requirement to declare currency amounts in excess of FJ 10,000, approx USD 4,500.

Are there any laws, rules or regulations I should be aware of?

 

Fiji does have strict biosecurity rules and customs enforce the x-ray of all in-bound luggage at Nadi airport. Most perishable foodstuffs will be confiscated on arrival, unless arriving from a country with quarantine agreements with Fiji. We strongly recommend that you do not enter Fiji carrying any type of plant or food that’s considered perishable. 

Do I need travel insurance?

 

Yes, once your trip is confirmed it is essential that you take out comprehensive travel insurance to cover you in case anything unexpected happens. 

We always recommend that our guests get the maximum level of coverage that you feel comfortable investing in. Read more about travel insurance for US travellers here and for travellers from other countries here.

Do I need to visit a travel doctor before my trip?

 

Yes, you should visit a travel doctor before your trip as they may recommend certain vaccinations or medications before or during travel. 

Some vaccines commonly recommended for travellers to the Pacific Islands include: Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Rabies and Meningitis. Fiji is free of Malaria.

What do I need to know about my regional flights?

 

Generally, you will arrive into Nadi International Airport and will be transferred to your accommodations by overland vehicle, speedboat, helicopter, or seaplane. 

Luggage is typically limited to around 15kg for helicopter and seaplane transfers. For the details relating to your trip please speak with your travel designer or concierge.

What will I receive from Jacada before I depart?

 

Travel pack

Before you head off on your adventure you will be sent a travel pack. The travel pack is full of great information and is also a beautiful keepsake. It is not necessary to travel with vouchers or confirmations on your trip but we do recommend having a printed copy of your travel itinerary to hand when you arrive into Fiji 

Bon Voyage email

Around 2 weeks before you depart we will email you an electronic version of your travel pack including your domestic flight tickets. Once you’ve received this email your Travel Designer will reach out to arrange a time for you to talk on the phone to go over any last minute questions and talk you through the information we’ve sent over.

Do I need to bring the local currency?

 

In some larger resorts it might be possible to use US dollars to make payments, however, overall, you will need the local currency, the Fijian Dollar. You can exchange money quite easily in Fiji at the airport, money exchange counters and your resort. The main hubs will also have ATMs machines available. Tourist areas and resorts will accept credit and debit cards but smaller shops and markets will not, you will need local currency here.

Can you tell me about tipping and etiquette in Fiji?

 

In Fiji tipping is not customary or required but you can still tip to recognise excellent service. Your guides, drivers and concierges can be tipped. As can taxi drivers and hotel porters – where small change is appropriate. You can also tip in restaurants if you feel it is appropriate, however it is not expected.

In terms of etiquette you should observe local customs, traditions, laws and religious practices. Away from tourist beaches and resorts you should keep your shoulders and legs covered, particularly during kava ceremonies and when in rural villages. Avoid wearing a hat in a village as it is considered an insult to the village chief. It is also insulting to touch someone’s head. It’s best to not wear shoes if visiting someone’s house. When visiting a village, it is customary to present an inexpensive gift of ‘yaqona’ or kava to the “Turaga Ni Koro”, the traditional head of the village. Be prepared to shake hands and answer personal questions as to where you are from, whether married; and, if so, how many children

What’s the weather like and how should I pack?

 

Fiji is a balmy, tropical country with warm weather throughout the year. Temperatures generally hover around 25-30°C (77-86°F). The dry season, from May to October, enjoys less rain, pleasant breezes and cooler nights. Summer, from November to April, is humid and sees torrential tropical downpours and the occasional storm, usually in the afternoon.

We’d recommend dressing for warm weather in t-shirts, dresses, shorts and skirts. Of course a good sunscreen is important, sunhat, and drink plenty of water. We also recommend packing thin layers to protect you from the sun and to keep you warm during the evenings. For travel during monsoon season, depending on your activities you will need to pack waterproof shoes and a rain jacket or poncho.

Should I make restaurant reservations?

 

Depending on your resort it might be best to make reservations in some more popular dining options or for private dining experiences, in advance of your trip. Once your trip is confirmed you will be introduced to your concierge who will be able to assist you in not only making the reservations but also making recommendations based on your preferences.

How can I keep connected on my trip?

 

Fiji operates on a 240V supply voltage and 50Hz using the Plug type I, which has three flat pins in a triangular pattern. Most larger resorts will have wifi but strengths can vary depending where you are. Wifi in smaller restaurants or cafes, away from tourist areas will probably not have a wifi connection.

Please contact your Jacada travel designer or concierge before your trip with any further questions.