Palau Visa
Palau is a beautiful archipelago of approximately 340 islands in the western Pacific Ocean. With a total area of 459 km² and a population of just over 21,500, it’s a hidden gem with stunning blue beaches, lush greenery, and excellent diving spots. Whether you’re planning a relaxing vacation or an adventurous getaway, this guide will help you understand everything you need to know about traveling to Palau.
Visa Requirements for Palau
Whether you need a visa to enter Palau depends on your nationality. Here’s a breakdown:
- Visa-Free for 1 Year: Nationals of the Marshall Islands, Micronesia, and the United States can stay in Palau for up to one year without a visa.
- Visa-Free for 90 Days: Citizens of all EU/Schengen member countries, Israel, and Taiwan can stay for up to 90 days without a visa.
- Visa-Free for 30 Days: Russian nationals can stay in Palau for 30 days without a visa.
For other nationalities, a visa-on-arrival is required, valid for a maximum of 30 days but extendable twice. Nationals of Bangladesh and Myanmar must obtain a visa before arriving.
Visa-On-Arrival Requirements
If you’re eligible for a visa-on-arrival, ensure you meet the following requirements:
- Valid passport with at least one blank page for the visa stamp.
- Proof of sufficient funds (at least USD 200 per week).
- A return or onward ticket.
- An International Certificate of Vaccination for Yellow Fever if arriving from an infected area.
Visa Application Process
Upon arrival in Palau, present your passport and supporting documents to border authorities. The visa processing takes a few minutes, and you’ll receive your passport back with the visa stamped. Nationals of Bangladesh and Myanmar should contact their local Palau diplomatic mission for visa applications.
Visa Fees and Extensions
Palau doesn’t charge a fee for a visa-on-arrival, but all departing travelers must pay:
- A departure tax of USD 20.
- An environmental fee of USD 30.
If you wish to extend your stay, the visa can be extended twice for an additional 30 days each, costing USD 50 for each extension. It’s best to apply for an extension at least seven days before the current visa expires.
Traveling to Palau
You can travel to Palau by plane via Airai (ROR), the country’s only airport, located on Babeldaob. There are flights from Guam, Japan, Manila, Seoul, and Taipei. You can also travel by boat, but it’s not a common method due to limited options.
Is Palau Safe?
Palau is generally a safe destination, but like any travel spot, it’s important to stay cautious. Keep your belongings close, especially when exploring caves or diving, as there are unexploded ordnance remnants from World War II. Palau is also prone to tropical cyclones and floods, especially between June and November.
Top Attractions in Palau
Despite its small size, Palau has a lot to offer to visitors. Here are some must-see attractions and activities:
- Ngardmau Waterfall: Located in Babeldaob, it’s the largest waterfall in Palau, with stunning scenery.
- Stone Monoliths of Ngarchelong: Explore these ancient stone blocks resembling Stonehenge but on a smaller scale.
- Sea Kayaking: Enjoy the calm seas of Palau, with maze-like channels, beautiful beaches, and aquamarine waters.
- Jellyfish Lake: Visit this unique lake on Eil Malk Island, home to millions of golden jellyfish.
- Palau Museums: Discover Palauan and Micronesian culture, and explore WWII relics in Peleliu from the September 1944 battle.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Palau offers a unique experience with its natural beauty and rich culture. Enjoy your trip!