Tuvalu

🇹🇻

Indicatif Téléphonique

+688

Capitale

Funafuti

Population

12 000

Nom Natif

Tuvalu

Région

Océanie

Polynésie

Fuseau Horaire

Tuvalu Time

UTC+12:00

Sur Cette Page

Argent et DeviseAperçu des VisasTypes de VisasNotes ImportantesGuide de VoyageAmbassades à l'étrangerAmbassades dans le pays

Tuvalu represents one of Earth's most remote and least-visited sovereign nations—a Polynesian country of just nine low-lying atolls scattered across 500 miles of Pacific Ocean, with a total population around 12,000. Reaching Tuvalu requires commitment: flights operate only twice weekly from Fiji, accommodation consists of one modest hotel and basic guesthouses, and tourism infrastructure barely exists. Yet this extreme remoteness preserves extraordinary authenticity: traditional Polynesian culture thrives unaffected by mass tourism, crystal lagoons remain virtually pristine, friendly locals welcome the handful of visitors with genuine curiosity and warmth, and travelers experience the profound satisfaction of visiting where almost no one else goes. Tuvalu attracts Pacific island completists, adventurous travelers seeking ultimate remoteness, and those fascinated by small island nations navigating modernity while preserving tradition.

Tuvalu Visa & Immigration System

Tuvalu operates a straightforward visa-free entry system for citizens of most countries. Nationals of major Western countries including Australia, New Zealand, UK, US, Canada, and EU member states receive 30-day visitor permits upon arrival at Funafuti International Airport. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure date. Immigration officials require confirmed return or onward flight tickets and evidence of sufficient funds for the stay (credit cards or cash). Accommodation details may be requested. Extensions beyond 30 days are possible through application to the Immigration Department in Funafuti, typically granted for legitimate reasons. Given the infrequency of flights (usually twice weekly from Fiji), visitors should plan itineraries carefully to ensure departure connections. Visa-free entry allows tourism, visiting friends or family, and short business activities—longer stays for work or residence require appropriate permits obtained through government departments. The immigration process is informal and friendly, reflecting Tuvalu's small size and minimal visitor numbers—fewer than 2,000 tourists visit annually.

Types de Visa Courants

Visa-Free Entry

30 days (extendable with good reason)

Tourism, visiting friends/family, short business visits

Visa Extension

Variable (apply at Immigration Dept in Funafuti)

Extending stay beyond initial 30 days

Work Permit

Annual permits (requires employer/sponsor)

Employment, volunteering, extended projects

Essential Information for Tuvalu Travelers

Visa-free entry granted to most nationalities for 30 days. Passport must be valid 6 months, return ticket required.

Flights operate only from Suva, Fiji, typically twice weekly via Fiji Airways. Book months in advance. Schedule changes and cancellations are common—build flexibility.

Accommodation is extremely limited: one government hotel (Vaiaku Lagi, $80-120/night) and a few basic guesthouses ($40-60/night). Book ahead.

Aperçu du Voyage

Traveling Tuvalu means accepting extreme remoteness, minimal infrastructure, and basic conditions in exchange for authentic Pacific island experiences few travelers ever witness. Funafuti, the capital atoll, hosts the nation's only international airport, one hotel (Vaiaku Lagi Hotel), several simple guesthouses, a handful of restaurants, and government buildings housing the country's administration. The atoll's narrow ribbon of land stretches around a lagoon perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Beyond Funafuti, eight outer islands receive only occasional supply ships and virtually no tourists, preserving traditional village life. English serves as an official language alongside Tuvaluan, simplifying communication. The Australian dollar is the currency. Mobile phone coverage exists on Funafuti but is limited on outer islands. Internet is available but slow and unreliable. Tourist activities consist primarily of lagoon swimming, snorkeling, exploring the atoll by bicycle or foot, visiting outer island villages (if boats are available), and interacting with locals. There are no organized tours, water sports operators, or conventional attractions—travelers create their own experiences through exploration and cultural exchange. The tropical climate remains warm year-round (26-32°C) with higher rainfall November-March. The South Pacific cyclone season (November-April) poses risks. Tuvalu appeals to travelers seeking genuine remoteness, cultural authenticity, and the adventure of visiting one of the world's least-touristy destinations, but emphatically does not suit those expecting comfort, entertainment, or developed tourism infrastructure.

Découvrez Tuvalu

Funafuti serves as Tuvalu's capital, housing roughly half the nation's population (about 6,000 residents) and providing the only practical entry point for visitors. The atoll consists of roughly 30 small islets surrounding a large lagoon, connected by a narrow land strip hosting the main settlement and airport. The airstrip, built during World War II, occupies much of the widest section, with the runway literally meters from turquoise lagoon water on both sides—creating one of the world's most scenic airport approaches. The main village stretches along the atoll's western side, featuring the Government Building housing parliament and administration, several churches (Christianity is nearly universal), small shops selling basic goods, simple restaurants serving local food, and residential areas of modest concrete and timber homes. The Vaiaku Lagi Hotel, run by the government, offers the closest approximation to tourist accommodation—clean but extremely basic rooms with air conditioning, basic restaurant, and waterfront location. Several guesthouses provide alternative budget options. The atoll's lagoon dominates daily life: calm, clear, and perfect for swimming. Simple boat trips can be arranged to explore smaller islets around the lagoon, visit the Conservation Area protecting birdlife and marine ecosystems, or fish for tuna and other species. The Funafuti Lagoon Hotel (actually a guesthouse) on Amatuku islet provides the most idyllic setting—a small island you can walk around in minutes, connected by causeway. The pace is profoundly slow: no traffic lights exist in the entire country, vehicles are few, and time follows natural rhythms of tide, weather, and community activities.

Façons de Découvrir Cette Destination

Adventurous Island Experience

Standard 5-7 day visit staying on Funafuti. Swim in the lagoon, explore the atoll, meet locals, experience authentic remote island life. Requires tolerance for basic conditions and limited entertainment.

Extended Outer Island Expedition

Multi-week journey visiting outer atolls via cargo boat. Stay in villages with families, experience traditional life. For serious adventurers only—requires extreme flexibility and cultural sensitivity.

Pacific Island Nation Completist

Adding Tuvalu to Pacific nation collection. Many travelers visit as part of wider Pacific journey (Fiji-Tuvalu-Kiribati or similar combinations). Tuvalu is often the most difficult Pacific nation to reach.

Présences diplomatiques

Ambassades présentes en Tuvalu

Ambassades et consulats accrédités dans ce pays. Sélectionnez une mission pour consulter la fiche détaillée.

Tous les pays par continent

Tuvalu offers intrepid travelers one of the Pacific's most authentic and remote experiences—where traditional Polynesian culture thrives unaffected by tourism, where crystal lagoons invite swimming in complete peace, and where reaching one of the world's smallest nations creates genuine adventure. Not for comfort-seekers, but unforgettable for those embracing remoteness.

Check Tuvalu Visa Requirements