Fiji

Crime that occurs in Fiji includes:

• robbery
• theft
• violent assault, including sexual assault
• home invasions

Most crime is opportunistic and is exacerbated by cost of living pressures in local communities. 

You're most at risk in urban areas and at night, including downtown Suva, Denarau Island and other tourist areas.

Be careful when visiting tourist attractions in Suva, including Colo-i-Suva. Be aware of your surroundings and keep your personal belongings secure.

Credit card fraud and use of skimming devices occurs.

To reduce your risk of becoming a victim:

• keep car windows up and doors locked, even when moving
• keep bags and valuables out of sight in vehicles
• don't carry excess cash and jewellery
• protect your PIN and be alert when using ATMs
• check through your credit card and bank statements for fraud
• where possible, use ATMs where a security guard is present

Drink spiking and methanol poisoning

Be alert to the potential risks around drink spiking and methanol poisoning through consuming alcoholic drinks. See our advice on partying safely while overseas.

Get urgent medical attention if you think you or someone else has been drugged.

Methanol can be used in unregulated alcohol production to lower costs. Methanol is highly toxic. As little as one shot can be fatal. Act quickly if you suspect you, or someone you're travelling with, has been poisoned. Urgent medical attention could save your life or save you from permanent disability. Report suspected cases of methanol poisoning to the police.

• be careful drinking cocktails and drinks made with spirits
• drink only at reputable licensed premises
• avoid home-made alcoholic drinks
• labels on bottles aren't always accurate.

More information:

• Partying safely while overseas

Sexual assault

If you're a victim/survivor of sexual assault, you may need urgent medical care. You may also want to report the crime to local police. You can call the Australian High Commission in Fiji for advice and consular assistance in seeking medical care and contacting police (see 'Local contacts').

If you choose to report the assault, go to the local police station in person to make a statement (you may wish to seek consular assistance before you visit). Statements from you and witnesses can be used as evidence in criminal court proceedings. 

Police will usually start to investigate while you're in Fiji. In most cases, you need to be in Fiji for the trial.

You may want to talk about what happened and get help from an experienced counsellor. If you need to speak to a counsellor:

• call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305
• contact the Australian High Commission in Fiji. 

They can connect you to counselling hotlines and services.

 More information:

• Sexual assaulted overseas

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information:

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Demonstrations and protests

Avoid any protests, demonstrations, rallies, public gatherings and areas with military activity.

Although rare, public protests and events that draw large groups can turn violent. 

Follow the instructions of local authorities and monitor the media for updates.

Local authorities sometimes erect checkpoints and close roads. Follow their advice.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather.

More information:

• Terrorism

Severe weather

Fiji experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including:

• cyclones
• flooding and landslides
• earthquakes and tsunamis

Severe weather may affect regional sea ports.

In the event of severe weather or a natural disaster:

• always carry your passport in a waterproof bag
• keep in touch with family and friends
• check the media and other local sources for information
• follow the advice of local authorities
• know and follow your hotel or cruise ship evacuation plan

For details of weather conditions, including cyclones, check Fiji Meteorological Service.

More information:

• Fiji National Disaster Management Office
• World Meteorological Organisation Severe Weather Information Centre
• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Cyclones

November to April is cyclone season, but cyclones may occur at other times.

A tropical cyclone's direction and strength can change quickly.

During and after a cyclone:

• adequate shelter may not be available
• flights from and to affected areas can be delayed or suspended
• available flights may fill quickly

If a cyclone is approaching, find your local shelter. In some areas, it may be hard to find sturdy cover. Follow the advice of local authorities.

For cyclone updates, check:

• Fiji Meteorological Service
• Fiji National Disaster Management Office Facebook page

Flooding

Flooding is common in Fiji, especially in downtown Nadi and on the Coral Coast.

Flooding and landslides can disrupt infrastructure and essential services.

Floods can cut off road access, including access to the airport.

Monitor road closures on the Fiji Roads Authority Facebook page.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Earthquakes and tsunamis can occur in Fiji.

Be alert to warnings. A tsunami can happen within minutes of a nearby tremor or earthquake.

If authorities issue a tsunami warning (by siren and/or news announcements), check with your accommodation provider about evacuation plans.

Move immediately to high ground if advised by local authorities or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings. Once on high ground, monitor local media and follow local authorities' advice.

More information:

• Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Cruise ship evacuations

In recent years, a number of Australians have had to evacuate from cruise ships to Lautoka and Suva for medical care.

Often, this is due to pre-existing medical conditions.

Declare any pre-existing conditions to your insurer.

Remember to extend your insurance if you extend your trip.

More information:

• Travel insurance
• Going on a cruise 

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of someone you know, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Fiji. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Always carry your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use only

Authorities may arrest you or confiscate restricted medication if you don't have the right documents.

More information:

• Medication

Current health risks

There are cases of typhoid and leptospirosis in Fiji. Stay away from flooded rivers or creeks, and wear footwear when outside. Monitor the Ministry of Health and Medical Services website and Facebook page for information and updates.

Fiji is also prone to mosquito-borne illnesses, including dengue and zika. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you go. Protect yourself against mosquito bites.

Measles

Fiji has experienced an outbreak of measles in the past. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you go.

Meningococcal disease

Meningococcal disease can often be fatal.

Get vaccinated before you travel.

If you notice a high fever, sensitivity to light or nausea, get medical treatment straight away.

More information:

• Meningococcal meningitis fact sheet

Kava

Kava, a traditional Pacific region drink, can be a health risk.

It can be dangerous if it reacts with:

• alcohol
• prescription medication, including antidepressants

More information:

• Kava fact sheet

Insect-borne illnesses

Fiji is prone to dengue and Zika virus outbreaks.

If you're pregnant, discuss your travel plans with your doctor and avoid affected areas.

Monitor local news for health updates.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Get medical help if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases

Rates of HIV/AIDS infection are rising. 

Take precautions if you're doing anything that exposes you to risk of infection.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

• typhoid
• hepatitis
• leptospirosis
• tuberculosis
• measles
• mumps
• COVID-19

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself against illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

More information:

• Health

Eating seafood can be a hazard.

Naturally occurring seafood toxins can make you ill, including:

• ciguatera fish poisoning
• scombroid (histamine fish poisoning)
• toxins in shellfish

Get urgent medical care if you suspect poisoning.

More information:

• Seafood poisoning

Medical facilities

Medical care standards in Fiji aren't as high as in Australia.

Hospitals and medical facilities can lack:

• extra services
• specialist equipment, including neonatal
• diagnostic equipment
• infection prevention control measures
• pharmaceuticals

Many hospitals provide only basic care.

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria outbreaks have occurred in health facilities in Fiji. 

Medical emergencies

Rescue and emergency services aren't as wide-ranging as they are in Australia.

Ambulance services are limited.

In medical emergencies, hotels and resorts use public health facilities.

Before they admit patients, hospitals usually need:

• a payment guarantee
• confirmed medical insurance
• an up-front deposit

If you become seriously ill or have an accident, you may need to be evacuated to Australia. Medical evacuation can be very expensive. Ensure your travel insurance covers this.

More information:

• Health

Diving accidents

Fiji's only hyperbaric (decompression) chamber is at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Suva. 

You should dive well within safety limits.

Make sure your travel and health insurance covers you for diving-related costs.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Understand local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Court proceedings can go on for a long time. The Australian Government can't influence the time this takes.

The police and military have detention, arrest and search powers.

Drugs

You can go to jail for possession of any quantity of illegal drugs. This includes if you are:

• Carrying or using drugs
• Partying safely with drugs

Drunk and disorderly

You can be arrested for being drunk and disorderly, including while you’re at an airport or on a plane. You can be fined and detained if you cause damage to property or assault others, including first responders.

Abortion

Abortion in Fiji is only legal in certain circumstances. Research local laws and consult your doctor before making any decisions about your medical care.

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Fiji recognises dual nationality. Always travel on your Australian passport.

If you're a dual national and authorities arrest or detain you, ask to contact the Australian High Commission.

However, we may only be able to assist you in exceptional circumstances.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Outside of tourist areas, the dress code in Fiji is conservative. Dress respectfully when visiting village areas.

Same-sex relationships are legal, but some locals have conservative attitudes towards them. Open displays of affection could offend locals, particularly in rural areas.

Take care not to offend.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Tourist visas

If you’re travelling from certain countries, including Australia, you don't need a tourist visa for Fiji. If your stay is less than 4 months, authorities will issue a visa when you arrive. 

To get a visa on arrival, you must show proof of booked accommodation and a return ticket.

Before travelling to Fiji, check Tourism Fiji's Frequently asked questions about travelling to Fiji page. If you have a previous criminal record, you may be denied entry into Fiji. 

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Fiji for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Other visas

You may need a visa if you travel for other reasons. Contact the Fiji High Commission for more details.

More information:

• Fiji High Commission Australia 
• Fiji Department of Immigration

Customs

Strict customs rules apply for importing items, such as:

• food
• weapons
• sexually explicit material

More information:

• Fiji Revenue and Customs Service

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, let the Australian Government know as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service

If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

More information:

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The local currency is the Fiji Dollar (FJD). ATMs are common in urban areas and large resorts. Carry cash when you travel to villages or remote areas. Local banks and ATMs will charge fees for cash withdrawals.

Not all retail outlets will accept credit cards. Those that do will charge a fee between 2-5%.

You can easily exchange Australian dollars for FJD.

You must declare:

• amounts of more than FJD5,000 (or equivalent) when you arrive in Fiji
• amounts of more than FJD10,000 (or equivalent) when you leave

This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

Severe weather can affect tourist services, including roads and flights in and out of Fiji.

More information:

• Fiji National Disaster Management Office
• World Meteorological Organisation Severe Weather Information Centre

Local restrictions

Monitor the Fijian Government Facebook page for information and updates about restrictions and curfew hours.

More information:

• Fiji Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport website

Tourism services or products

Transport and tour operators may not follow safety precautions. They may also not maintain their equipment to the standards you'd expect.

This includes operators of:

• adventure activities such as scuba diving, snorkelling, rafting and skydiving
• boats in rivers, coastal waters and between islands

Sometimes boats, rafts and kayaks don't have enough life jackets.

If you plan to do a tour or adventure activity:

• check that your insurance policy covers the activity
• before booking, check the operator's safety history and their safety equipment
• use only well-known and registered operators
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use the safety equipment, even if others don't

If you aren't given safety gear, or it's not in usable condition, use another provider.

Driving permit

Always carry your Australian driver's licence.

You can hire vehicles and drive in Fiji using your Australian driver's licence for the first 6 months after your arrival.  After that, you'll need to apply for a Fijian driver's licence at a local Land Transport Authority office.

If you want to ride a motorbike, check if your licence and insurance covers you for this. Driving without the correct licence can void your insurance.

If you want to drive a boat, check if your licence covers you for this.

More information:

• Fiji Land Transport Authority

Road travel

If you drive in Fiji, take care. Driving is most risky at night due to:

• poor street lighting
• stray animals
• poor road quality

More information:

• Driving or riding

Taxis

Taxi quality varies.

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) licenses taxis.

Only use licensed taxis, which have yellow registration plates. Look out for the LT or LH registrations on the license plate. LT plates are metered taxis. LH taxis have fixed distance rates. 

Before you catch a taxi, make sure you have cash (Fiji dollars) for payments and that their meter is turned on. Be aware some taxis only have a seatbelt in the front passenger seat. You may need to plan ahead to book a taxi with front and rear seatbelts. 

Public transport

The LTA licenses some, but not all, minibuses. Unlicensed minibuses may not have insurance.

Only use those with yellow number plates that have been LTA-approved. 

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Sea travel

Before boarding any boat or ship, check the operator's credentials and safety equipment. 

Make sure your insurance policy covers you for sea travel.

Don't travel on a sea vessel that is over capacity.

More information:

• Travelling by boat

Air travel

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Fiji's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Emergencies

Fire and rescue services

Call 911

Medical emergencies

Call 911

Police

Call 917

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your travel insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australian High Commission, Suva

37 Princes Road
Tamavua
Suva, Fiji

Phone: +679 338 2211
Fax: +679 338 2065
Website: fiji.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: Australia in Fiji
X: @AusHCFJ

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact the Australian High Commission, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia