🇸🇧 Solomon Islands visa requirements

Most Western passports get you 30 days visa-free. Don't plan on working remotely on that stamp.

Who walks in visa-free for the Solomon Islands?

Citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and most European Union countries can enter the Solomon Islands visa-free for up to 30 days. That's your entry ticket if you hold one of these passports. Other nationalities might find themselves needing a visa beforehand. Some countries get a visa on arrival, also for 30 days, but you'll need to check the specific list for your passport. If you're from a country not listed for visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry, you absolutely must secure a visa from a Solomon Islands diplomatic mission before you travel. This usually involves an application submitted well in advance.

How long can you actually stay and what are the rules?

Your initial visa-free or visa-on-arrival stay is capped at 30 days. Want to stay longer? You'll need to apply for an extension. This is done through the Immigration Department in Honiara. Extensions are typically granted for another 30 days, bringing your maximum potential stay to 60 days on a single entry. Be aware: the "double entry" rule is often cited, meaning if you leave the Solomon Islands and re-enter, you might only get another 30 days, even if your initial stay was shorter. Penalties for overstaying are steep. While specific figures can fluctuate, expect fines that can reach SBD 50 per day†. More critically, overstaying can lead to detention and deportation. Always ensure your passport has sufficient validity, usually at least six months beyond your intended stay, and at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.

Can you work remotely on a tourist visa?

Officially, no. Working on a standard tourist visa for the Solomon Islands is a grey area that most travellers should avoid. The visa allows for tourism and short visits, not for earning income or conducting business. While enforcement in remote areas might be lax, in Honiara and for any significant or prolonged remote working, you risk drawing attention from immigration officials. There isn't a specific digital nomad visa or remote work permit available. If your remote work involves any local engagement, meetings, or client interactions within the Solomon Islands, you're definitely operating outside the bounds of a tourist visa. For any work-related activity, it's best to consult with the Immigration Department directly about potential business visa options, though these are not designed for typical remote workers.

What's new with Solomon Islands visas?

The Solomon Islands has been working to streamline its visa process. In recent years, there have been discussions and some movement towards an eVisa system, though its full implementation and accessibility for all nationalities have been gradual. Keep an eye on the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade website for the most current information on this. Fee structures can also change, so always verify current visa application and extension costs directly with immigration authorities or the relevant consulates. As of late 2023 and early 2024, there haven't been major, sweeping changes like a complete overhaul of visa-free access for key countries, but a more accessible online application portal is the direction they're moving. Always confirm requirements before booking flights.