By air
Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) on Efate, a few kilometres from Port Vila, is the main international gateway. Regular services connect Port Vila with Brisbane, Sydney, and Auckland. Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar all fly from Australia; Air New Zealand connects from Auckland. From Fiji, Fiji Airways provides connections that open up routes from North America and Asia. Santo-Pekoa Airport on Espiritu Santo receives occasional direct flights from Brisbane via Solomon Airlines.
Air Vanuatu, the national carrier, collapsed in 2023 and suspended all services. Domestic services under the Air Vanuatu name resumed in late 2024 with government backing, but check the current situation before relying on international connections through the airline.
Flight times: roughly 3 hours from Brisbane or Sydney, 3.5 hours from Auckland.
By sea
Vanuatu is a port of call on some South Pacific cruise itineraries, typically stopping at Port Vila and sometimes Luganville or Mystery Island (Aneityum). Cargo ships connect Port Vila with other Pacific islands, though these are slow and schedules are irregular — not a practical option for most visitors.
Entry requirements
Most nationalities receive a free entry stamp on arrival for up to 30 days. You need a valid passport (minimum six months' validity beyond your departure date), a return or onward ticket, and evidence of sufficient funds. Extensions up to 120 days can be applied for at the Immigration Office in Port Vila. Check current visa requirements before travelling as these can change.