23 March 2021
There's a ban on overseas travel from Australia. You can’t leave Australia unless you have an exemption from the Department of Home Affairs, or are travelling to a destination that is exempt from the ban.
Our global travel advice remains at 'Do not travel' due to the health risks from the COVID-19 pandemic and the significant disruptions to global travel. Some destinations were already set at Do Not Travel prior to COVID-19 due to the extreme risk to your safety.
If you’re overseas and wish to return to Australia, be prepared for delays and read our advice on trying to get home.
When you arrive in Australia you must quarantine for 14 days at designated facilities in your port of arrival, unless you have an exemption or are travelling on a quarantine-free flight from a green zone destination. At this time, vaccination against COVID-19 does not change this quarantine requirement. You may be required to pay for the costs of your quarantine. View State and Territory Government COVID-19 information for information about quarantine and domestic borders.
If you're staying overseas, make plans to stay for an extended period. Follow the advice of local authorities and minimise your risk of exposure to COVID-19. Stay in touch with family and friends so they know you're safe.
Our network of embassies and consular posts around the world will provide you with up-to-date local advice and support throughout this difficult period. Be aware consular services may be limited due to local measures.
For the latest information, read and subscribe to our news and travel advice. Also see our COVID-19 information pages.
Call 18.
Call 15 or go to a hospital.
Call 17 or go to the nearest police station or gendarmerie station (outside of Papeete).
Do not travel to French Polynesia.
Full travel advice: Safety
Full travel advice: Health
Full travel advice: Local laws
Full travel advice: Travel
Full travel advice: Local contacts
Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.
Strikes and industrial disputes can lead to social unrest. They may disrupt essential services, including:
Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
If there's a strike:
More information:
The rate of serious crime is low in French Polynesia.
Petty crime happens, including drink spiking.
To protect yourself from petty theft and assaults:
More information:
Very few beaches in French Polynesia are patrolled.
Obey warning signs and follow lifeguards' and local authorities' advice. A red flag means don't swim.
Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities, such as scuba diving.
If you plan to do a tour or adventure activity:
If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.
French Polynesia experiences severe weather, including:
The High Commission of France in French Polynesia has procedures for natural disasters.
Check the High Commission of France in French Polynesia (French) for news and weather updates.
If there's an emergency, the High Commission of France will open a hotline (French). Call (+689) 40 44 42 10 for information.
Check weather reports regularly during your stay. Be prepared to change your plans if you need to.
Monitor:
If there's a natural disaster:
Cyclone season is November to April. However, tropical storms and cyclones may occur at any time of year.
Severe weather can bring:
The direction and strength of tropical cyclones can change with little warning.
If there's a cyclone or severe tropical storm:
French Polynesia has a cyclone alert system with 6 levels:
Learn about the alert system and recommended responses on the website of the High Commission of France website (French) and from their Cyclone Alert brochure (French).
If a cyclone is approaching:
Once the Safeguard Phase is announced:
Earthquakes sometimes happen.
Ask your host or hotel about local procedures and what to do during an earthquake.
If there's an earthquake:
After an earthquake:
Tsunamis may occur, so stay alert for warnings.
A tsunami can arrive within minutes of a tremor or earthquake. Get updates from the U.S. Tsunami Warning System.
French Polynesia has 2 types of evacuation:
If you're near the coast, move immediately to high ground if advised by local authorities or if you:
Don't wait for official warnings such as alarms or sirens.
Once on high ground, monitor local media.
To prepare yourself for earthquakes and tsunamis you can:
subscribe to tsunami alerts from the Global Disaster Alert and Co-ordination system
get earthquake updates from the US Geological Service
get tsunami updates from the U.S. Tsunami Warning System
More information:
Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. A ban on overseas travel from Australia remains in place. You can't leave Australia unless you get an exemption from the Department of Home Affairs.
Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation and adequate coverage for any pre-existing conditions. 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 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.
Confirm:
Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19.
See your doctor or travel clinic to:
Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.
More information:
Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be illegal or controlled substances, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.
If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in French Polynesia. Take enough legal medication for your trip.
Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:
More information:
COVID-19 remains a risk in French Polynesia.
For information on French Polynesia's COVID−19 vaccination program, refer to Health Department of French Polynesia (in French). You should consult your local health professional for advice on vaccine options, including assistance that may be available locally. The Australian Government cannot provide advice on the safety, quality and efficacy of vaccines that have been approved for use outside of Australia's regulatory process.
More information:
A dengue type 2 epidemic was declared on 10 April 2019 on the islands of Tahiti and 12 July 2019 for Bora Bora. Other islands including Moorea, Nuku Hiva, Huahine and Raiatea have also been affected since then. Other islands such as Maupiti, Takaroa and Fakarava are also at risk.
Outbreaks of other insect-borne diseases can also happen, mostly in warmer and wetter months.
These include:
If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health recommends you:
To protect yourself from illness:
Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pains, a rash or a bad headache.
More information:
To protect yourself against leptospirosis:
You're also at risk of waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases, including:
Tap water in Papeete is usually safe to drink.
To protect yourself from illness:
Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, a rash, diarrhoea or a severe headache.
If you travel outside of Papeete:
More information:
The standard of facilities in Papeete is very high. However, facilities in outlying areas and remote islands are basic.
Medical treatment is expensive.
The standard of rescue and emergency services is high. However, the travel time between Papeete and the outer islands may delay emergency responses.
You may need to be evacuated if you become seriously ill or injured. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.
There is a decompression facility at the Central Hospital of French Polynesia in Papeete. It can take hours to reach from popular dive sites on other islands.
Make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation and your planned activities.
You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research 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.
Wearing a face mask is mandatory in all closed public places, including businesses, shops and on public transport, as well as during public gathering and guided tours. Fines apply for non-compliance.
French Polynesia is an overseas territory of France. A mix of French and local laws apply.
More information:
Penalties for drug offences, even small amounts, include fines and imprisonment.
More information:
By law, you must always carry photo ID.
Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.
More information:
Dress and behaviour standards are conservative outside of Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora and other tourist areas.
Take care not to offend, especially outside tourist resorts.
Visits to certain sacred sites (marae) may require prior authorisation. Check with local authorities before visiting any natural or historical site.
Under French law, same-sex marriage is legal. However, outside of the main tourist islands of Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora, you may encounter more conservative attitudes.
More information:
Visa-free travel for short stays.
You likely won't need a visa for a tourist visit of up to 3 months. However, you may need to show proof of:
In other situations, you may need a visa.
French Polynesia is an overseas territory of France.
Entry and exit conditions can change. Contact the Embassy of France in Canberra or the Consulate of France in Sydney for up to date information on visa requirements.
You can only travel to and from French Polynesia under certain circumstances such as personal, family and health emergencies or for professional reasons.
Measures may change at short notice.
Travel by air:
Requests to travel to and from French Polynesia, including supporting documents and forms, must be provided to the French High Commission in French Polynesia (in French) at least six days before your intended flight. The French High Commission will provide clearance for boarding ('validation') as appropriate and up to 48 hours prior to the intended flight.
You'll be required to undertake mandatory quarantine on arrival at either a dedicated quarantine facility on Tahiti, or in limited circumstances, if you're a resident of French Polynesia, at your place of residence (all requests must be made well in advance of your intended date to obtain approval from the French High Commission in French Polynesia).
If you are a resident who was vaccinated in, and is returning to, French Polynesia and can produce a verifiable local vaccination certificate, you may be able to qualify for eased quarantine measures. Quarantine may also be conducted outside of Tahiti and are subject to local authority approval. All arrivals over the age of 11 are required to pay a contribution towards their quarantine costs.
During mandatory quarantine, you’ll be required to undergo further periodic COVID-19 tests at the direction of local health authorities. The duration of the quarantine period is subject to COVID-19 test results. Should you test positive, your quarantine may be extended or you may be transferred to a medical facility as appropriate.
Travel by sea:
Maritime borders remain closed, except for exemptions granted by local authorities in certain circumstances. You'll need to get approval in advance from the Maritime Affairs Directorate of French Polynesia (DPAM) and the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC). You should contact the DPAM and the JRCC for advice on processes applicable to your specific circumstances. Authorities advise no disembarkation at sea or at berth will be authorised until vessels and occupants are cleared to do so.
If you intend to arrive in French Polynesia by sea, the captain of the vessel will need to request permission to enter from DPAM at least 48 hours prior to the intended arrival date and provide a health declaration for all people on board. Local authorities will advise if the vessel is authorised to enter French Polynesia and of any specific measures applicable, including requirements to quarantine either on board, or in a dedicated quarantine facility, and to undertake COVID-19 testing at the direction of local health authorities. Vessels at sea for 42 days prior to arrival will be exempt from quarantine provided nobody on board has been ill during this period. Vessels that spend between 11 and 42 days at sea can apply for a quarantine exemption, provided everyone on board tests negative to COVID-19 on arrival. If you are required to undertake mandatory quarantine, you will be required to contribute towards the costs related to your period of quarantine.
All cruise ship visits from foreign ports remain suspended for the foreseeable future. Domestic cruises that only visit French Polynesian waters and ports may be available. You should check with the cruise operator and local authorities on additional requirements required prior to and after boarding, before booking a ticket.
Local authorities have relaxed a number of COVID-19 related restrictions for the period 8 to 30 April 2021 following which they will be reviewed. A full list of current measures is available on the website of the French High Commission and includes:
Measures may be subject to change at short notice. Fines may apply for non-compliance.
If you're staying in French Polynesia you should:
More information:
Some goods aren't allowed in French Polynesia. Other goods require specific approvals or other formalities.
More information:
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. You may 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.
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, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:
The local currency is the Pacific Franc (XPF — Franc Pacifique).
You can change Australian dollars at:
You may not be able to use credit cards or find ATMs:
Industrial and political disputes as well as strikes can cause disruptions to essential services including transport. Monitor developments and plan as required.
To learn more about strikes and civil disputes. See Safety
You can drive in French Polynesia on a valid Australian driver's licence for up to one year after arrival.
Take care driving, particularly at night. Many roads are narrow and unpaved.
If you plan to drive:
More information:
Make sure your insurance policy covers you before riding a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.
Always wear a helmet.
You can hail a taxi on the street in Papeete.
You can also find a taxi at the Faa'a international airport and in Papeete at the:
Drivers may charge for luggage.
Many outer islands don't have taxis.
Major centres have a limited network of minibuses (Le Truck).
Minibus services:
Ferries (navettes) run between Tahiti and smaller islands.
More information:
Some international cruise liners visit French Polynesia.
Medical facilities on cruise ships may not meet Australian standards.
Treatment may also cost more.
Many insurance companies have refused to pay for medical evacuations to hospitals in French Polynesia. These have been mostly claims by cruise passengers with existing conditions.
If you plan to go on a cruise:
More information:
DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.
Check French Polynesia's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.
More information:
Depending on what you need, contact your:
Call 18.
Call 15 or go to a hospital.
Call 17 or go to the nearest police station or gendarmerie station (outside of Papeete).
Always get a police report when you report a crime.
Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.
Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.
Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.
Please note the Australian Consulate in Tahiti is able to provide limited consular assistance and is under the supervision of the Australian Consulate-General in Noumea.
The consular assistance mailbox of the Australian Consulate-General in Noumea (consular.noumea@dfat.gov.au) is monitored regularly during our business hours (Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm) and similarly during weekends or public holidays.
The public telephone line in Noumea (+687 27 24 14) is staffed during our office hours Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm, except public holidays observed by the Australian Consulate-General in Noumea. Outside of our office hours and if you require urgent consular assistance, please follow the prompts to be connected to the 24/7 Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra.
The Australian Consulate in Tahiti can't issue Australian passports or notarise documents. The Australian Consulate-General in Noumea provides passport and notarial services during official visits to French Polynesia. For notarial services at other times, consider checking with the relevant Australian authority whether there are local options such as a foreign citizen who holds a particular professional title or occupation (e.g. notary public, lawyer, police officers, etc.) who may be accepted as a witness.
Norwich building
Level 2
11 rue Georges Baudoux
Artillerie, Noumea, New Caledonia
Phone: +687 272 414
Website: noumea.consulate.gov.au
Consular Assistance Email: consular.noumea@dfat.gov.au
Facebook: Australia in New Caledonia, French Polynesia and Wallis and Futuna
Twitter: @AusEmbCGNoumea
Check the Consulate-General website for further information, including details about opening hours and any temporary closures.
In a consular emergency, if you can't reach the Australian Consulate-General in Noumea, contact the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:
Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.