On 21 March 2018, the Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services declared an outbreak of meningococcal disease. According to the World Health Organization, meningococcal can be highly fatal (see Health). The level of our advice has not changed. Exercise normal safety precautions in Fiji.
Summary
- Exercise normal safety precautions in Fiji. Use common sense and look out for suspicious behaviour, as you would in Australia. Monitor the media and other sources for changes to local travelling conditions.
- On 21 March 2018, the Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services declared an outbreak of meningococcal disease. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), meningococcal can be highly fatal. Symptoms include high fever, sensitivity to light or nausea. Seek urgent medical advice if symptoms persist. See Health.
- Cyclone season is November to April. Check information on cyclones, including links to local meteorological services and advice on what to do in a cyclone. See Additional information.
- There is currently no operational hyperbaric (decompression) chamber in Fiji, as the only chamber available, located at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Suva, is undergoing long-term maintenance. Dive well within safety limits and ensure you have travel and health insurance that includes coverage for diving and evacuation costs. See Health.
- Driving at night can be dangerous because of insufficient street lighting, stray animals and poor quality roads. Exercise caution. See Local travel.
- Expatriates and tourists have been the victim of violent crime, including sexual assault. Be vigilant. See Safety and security.
- Outbreaks of endemic mosquito-borne illnesses (including dengue fever) are common. Protect yourself against mosquito bites. See Health.
- In recent years, a number of Australians have been evacuated from cruise ships to Lautoka and Suva for hospitalisation. Check your travel insurance policy to ensure you understand exactly what your policy covers. See Health.
- See Travel Smart for general advice for all travellers.
Entry and exit
Visas
Australians don’t need a visa to travel to Fiji for tourism. Visitor visas for stays of less than four months are issued on arrival, provided you have a return ticket and confirmation of accommodation.
You may require a visa for other purposes. Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Fiji for up-to-date information.
More information:
- Fiji High Commission in Australia
- Fiji Department of Immigration.
