Solomon Islands Entry Requirements

Children must have their own passport (family passports are not accepted). Minors under 18 traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent(s) authorizing the travel. This letter should include contact information for the parent(s), details of the trip, and be dated. If a child is traveling with only one parent and that parent has sole custody, bring legal documentation proving custody. Adoption papers should be carried if traveling with adopted children. Birth certificates may be requested to prove relationships. Ensure children's passports are valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay.

Importing pets to Solomon Islands is complex and requires extensive advance planning (at least 3-6 months). Requirements include: import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, valid rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before arrival), health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 7 days of departure, microchip identification, and potentially a period of quarantine. Pets must arrive as manifest cargo, not as accompanied baggage. Certain breeds may be restricted. Contact the Biosecurity Division well in advance as requirements are strict and documentation must be precise. Many travelers find it more practical to leave pets at home or in care due to the complexity and cost.

If you wish to stay beyond your initial visitor permit (typically 30-90 days), you must apply for an extension through the Immigration Division in Honiara before your current permit expires. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration officials and typically require: valid reason for extension, proof of sufficient funds, confirmed accommodation, valid passport, completed application form, and payment of extension fees (approximately SBD 400-800 depending on duration). Extensions are usually granted in 30-day increments up to a maximum total stay of 6 months in any 12-month period. For stays longer than 6 months, you may need to apply for a different visa category such as a work permit, business visa, or residence permit, which have separate requirements and must often be sponsored by a local entity or employer. Overstaying without authorization can result in fines, detention, deportation, and future entry bans.

Business visitors can typically enter on a standard visitor permit if conducting short-term business activities such as attending meetings, conferences, or negotiations. However, any work that could be considered employment (paid or unpaid) requires a work permit obtained in advance. Bring supporting documentation including invitation letters from Solomon Islands business contacts, proof of business registration in your home country, and details of your business activities. For extended business stays or employment, your employer or sponsor in Solomon Islands must apply for a work permit on your behalf, which involves Labour Division approval, Immigration Division processing, and can take several months. Investment visas are available for those making significant economic contributions to the country.

Journalists, film crews, and media professionals must obtain media accreditation from the Government Communications Unit or relevant ministry before arrival. This applies to both foreign and local media operating in certain areas. Professional camera equipment may require temporary import permits. Filming in some locations (government buildings, military sites, certain cultural areas) requires specific permissions. Apply well in advance of your trip as processing can take several weeks. Failure to obtain proper accreditation can result in denied entry, confiscation of equipment, or deportation.

Cruise ship passengers are typically granted shore passes for the duration of their ship's port call (usually 8-12 hours). You must carry your passport or ship-issued identification and return to the vessel before departure. Immigration processing is often handled collectively through the cruise line, but you may still need to present your passport to authorities. Shore passes do not allow for overnight stays off the ship. If you wish to stay longer in Solomon Islands after your cruise, you must make prior arrangements and will go through standard immigration procedures.