Nauru Entry Requirements

Children require the same visa and entry documentation as adults, including sponsorship. Minors (under 18) traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s) authorizing the travel, including contact information. If traveling with only one parent, bring the child's birth certificate and consent letter from the other parent. In cases of sole custody, bring legal documentation. Children must have their own passport (included on parent's passport is not acceptable). Ensure children's vaccinations are current, particularly routine childhood immunizations.

Importing pets to Nauru is extremely difficult and subject to strict quarantine regulations. An import permit must be obtained from the Nauru Department of Commerce, Industry and Environment well in advance (minimum 3-6 months). Requirements include: current rabies vaccination (at least 30 days old but not more than 12 months), microchip identification, health certificate from a licensed veterinarian issued within 10 days of travel, proof of treatment for internal and external parasites, and potentially lengthy quarantine period upon arrival at owner's expense. Only dogs and cats are generally considered; other animals face additional restrictions. Given the complexity and costs, leaving pets at home or in care is strongly recommended for short visits. Contact authorities at least 6 months before intended travel if pet importation is necessary.

Tourist/visitor visas are typically issued for 30 days. Extensions may be possible but are not guaranteed and must be applied for at the Department of Immigration before your current visa expires. Extension applications require: valid reason for extension, continued sponsorship, proof of sufficient funds, accommodation confirmation, and payment of extension fees. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities. For stays longer than 90 days or for work purposes, different visa categories apply (work permits, business visas, residence permits) which require separate applications and approvals. Work permits require employer sponsorship and approval from the Department of Commerce, Industry and Environment. Long-term residence requires special approval and is rarely granted except for employment, investment, or family reunification purposes. Plan your stay within your approved visa period, as overstaying can result in fines, detention, deportation, and future entry bans.

Business visitors require a business visa with sponsorship from a registered Nauruan business entity. Application must include: letter of invitation from Nauruan business partner detailing purpose and duration of visit, company registration documents from sponsor, proof of business relationship, and detailed itinerary. Business visas may be issued for single or multiple entries depending on need. If conducting business activities, ensure proper work authorization if required. Attending meetings or conferences typically falls under business visitor category, but any work that generates income in Nauru requires a work permit. Processing times for business visas are similar to tourist visas (2-4 weeks), so apply early.

Even transit passengers who do not leave the airport may require transit visas depending on nationality and length of layover. Given Nauru's limited flight connections, most travelers are not in pure transit but are either arriving or departing. If you have a layover and plan to leave the airport, you will need a full entry visa. If remaining airside during a brief connection (rare given flight schedules), confirm with Nauru Airlines and immigration authorities whether a transit visa is required. It is safest to assume you will need proper entry authorization for any stop in Nauru.

Journalists, photographers, and media professionals must obtain special permission and appropriate visas before traveling to Nauru. Media visas require approval from the Nauru Government and sponsorship from relevant authorities. Application must include: detailed explanation of reporting purpose, list of equipment being brought, itinerary, and credentials from media organization. Nauru has been sensitive about media access in the past, particularly regarding the Regional Processing Centre. Applications should be submitted well in advance (2-3 months minimum) and approval is not guaranteed. Arriving as a tourist while intending to conduct journalism activities is prohibited and can result in deportation. Professional camera equipment may be subject to additional scrutiny at customs.