Visitor permits good for stays of up to 4 months are issued upon arrival to citizens of the United States; all Commonwealth countries; most European, South American, and South Pacific island nations; and Mexico, Japan, Israel, Pakistan, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia, and Turkey. You must have a passport valid for 3 months beyond your visit, onward or return airline tickets, and enough money or proof of finances to support you during your stay.

Citizens of all other countries must apply for visas in advance from the Fiji embassies or consulates. In the United States, contact the Embassy of Fiji, 2233 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 240, NW, Washington, D.C. 20007 (tel. 202/337-8320; fax 202/337-1996; www.fijiembassy.org. Other Fiji embassies or high commissions are in Ottawa, Canada; Canberra, Australia; Wellington, New Zealand; London, England; Brussels, Belgium; Tokyo, Japan; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea; Hong Kong, China; and Tel-Aviv, Israel. Check your local phone book.

Persons wishing to remain longer than 4 months must apply for extensions from the Immigration Department, whose primary offices are at the Nadi International Airport terminal and in the Labour Department building on Victoria Parade in downtown Suva

Vaccinations are not required unless you have been in a yellow fever or cholera area shortly before arriving in Fiji.

Customs allowances are 500 cigarettes; 2 liters of liquor, beer, or wine; and F$400 (US$240) worth of other goods in addition to personal belongings. Pornography is prohibited. Firearms and nonprescription narcotic drugs are strictly prohibited and subject to heavy fines and jail terms. Pets will be quarantined. Any fresh fruits and vegetables must be declared and are subject to inspection and fumigation.

Suva is the capital of Fiji. It is located on the southeast coast of the island of Viti Levu, in the division of Central Fiji, which it is also the capital of. Suva became the capital of Fiji in 1877 when the geography of former main Kaivalagi (European) settlement at Levuka on the island of Ovalau proved too restrictive. At the 1996 census, the last to date, the city of Suva had a population of 77,366 [1]. Including independent suburbs, the population of the Greater Suva urban area was 167,975 at the same census.

Physical characteristics

Suva is the commercial and political centre of Fiji, and the largest city in the South Pacific outside of Australia and New Zealand. It is Fiji’s main port city and was the host of the 2003 South Pacific Games.

Although Suva is on a peninsula, and almost surrounded by sea, the nearest beach is 40 kilometers (25 mi) away at Pacific Harbour, and the nearby coast is lined by mangroves. A significant part of the city centre, including the old Parliament Buildings, is built on reclaimed mangrove swamp. Suva is noted for its considerable rainfall. Although it is not as wet as Pohnpei, the capital of the Federated States of Micronesia, it has a markedly higher rainfall than Nadi and the western side of Viti Levu, which is known to Suva citizens as “the burning west”.

Landmarks

Fiji’s tallest building, Suva Central, has been recently completed and stands 24.6 meters (81 ft) taller than the Reserve Bank of Fiji Building. Suva Central is currently the tallest building in the Pacific Islands region, is located near the old Morris Hedstrom store. Another well-known landmark is the Suva City Library, built in 1909 and financed by the Scottish-American steel tycoon Andrew Carnegie.

The government buildings complex occupies what was once the bed of a swampy creek. This was drained in 1935 and over five kilometers of reinforced concrete pilings were rooted in the creek bed to support the massive buildings that were to be erected. After the foundation stone was laid in 1937, the building was completed in 1939; a new wing was completed in 1967. Parliament, however, was moved to a new complex on Ratu Sukuna Road in 1992.

Government House was formerly the residence of Fiji’s colonial Governors and, following independence in 1970, Governors-General. It is now the official residence of Fiji’s President. Originally erected in 1882, it had to be rebuilt in 1928, following its destruction by lightning in 1921.

The Suva campus of the University of the South Pacific (USP) occupies what was once a New Zealand seaplane base. It is the largest of the many USP campuses dotted throughout the South Pacific.

The Fiji Museum, located in the Thurston Gardens, was founded in 1904 and originally occupied the old town hall, but moved to its present location in 1954. The museum houses the most extensive collection of Fijian artifacts in the world, and is also a research and educational institution, specializing in archeology, the preservation of Fiji’s oral tradition, and the publication of material on Fiji’s language and culture.

Suva has about 78 parks. These include the new Takashi Suzuki Garden and the Thurston Gardens. Opened in 1913, the Thurston Gardens are replete with flora from throughout the South Pacific. Apted Park, at Suva Point, is a well-known spot for viewing sunrise and sunset.

Demographics of Suva

Suva is a multiracial and multicultural city. Indigenous Fijians and Indo-Fijians, the two principal ethnic groups of Fiji, comprise the bulk of Suva’s population, but the city is also home to the majority of Fiji’s ethnic minority populations, which include Caucasians and Chinese, among others. The majority of expatriates working in Fiji are also based in Suva. The most widely spoken language is English, but Fijian, Hindustani, and other Indian languages are also spoken by their respective communities.

Institutions

Suva is host to more international and regional intergovernmental agencies and NGOs than any other Pacific Island capital, to the considerable chagrin of some other capitals (the staff of these agencies have considerable spending power).

The TRAFFIC Oceania South Pacific Programme, funded by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, is located in Suva, in the offices of the WWF South Pacific Programme. The programme assists in the implementation of CITES, but also strengthens collaboration with the World Wildlife Fund.

The Fiji School of Medicine, which is now classed as a regional agency and a member of the Council of Regional Organisations in the Pacific, and the main campus of the University of the South Pacific are in Suva.

Suva also hosts the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC), Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat and the South Pacific Applied Geoscience Commission.

Municipal government

Suva has municipal status and is governed by a Lord Mayor and a 20-member city council, which is controlled by the Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua following elections on 12 November 2005. The current Lord Mayor is Ratu Peni Volavola.

History

In return for a promise to pay off debts owed to the United States by the Bauan chieftain, Seru Epenisa Cakobau, the Australian-based Polynesia Company was granted 5000 km² of land, 575 km² of it near what was then the village of Suva, in 1868. The original intention was to develop a cotton farming industry, but the land and climate proved unsuitable.

Following the annexation of the Fiji Islands by the United Kingdom in 1874, the colonial authorities decided to move the capital to Suva from Levuka in 1877. The transfer was made official in 1882. Colonel F.E. Pratt of the Royal Engineers was appointed Surveyor-General in 1875 and designed the new capital, assisted by W. Stephens and Colonel R.W. Stewart.

Following the promulgation of the Municipal Constitution Ordinance of 1909, Suva acquired municipal status in 1910. The town initially comprised one square mile; these boundaries remained intact until 1952 when the Muanikau and Samabula wards were annexed, expanding its territory to 13 square kilometers.

In October that year, Suva was proclaimed a City - Fiji’s first. Tamavua was subsequently annexed; the most recent extension of the city boundaries has been to incorporate the Cunningham area to the north of the city. Urban sprawl has resulted in a number of suburbs that remain outside of the city limits; together with the city itself, they form a metropolitan area known as the Greater Suva Area.

Entry will be denied to persons Who have been deported or removed from another country.

Passports
Passport valid for at least six months beyond intended period of stay required by all except nationals of Fiji when holding a Certificate of Identity including a photograph of the bearer. Holders of the certificate must obtain approval from the Fiji Immigration Department before arrival.

Visas
Required by all except the following who are issued a visitor’s permit valid for one month (extendable to four months) on arrival:
(a) nationals of countries shown in the chart above, except 1. nationals of Lithuania who do need a visa;
(b) 2. nationals of Commonwealth countries (except nationals of Cameroon, Mozambique, Namibia and Sri Lanka who do need a visa);
(c) nationals of Argentina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Chile, Colombia, Iceland, Indonesia, Israel, Kenya, Korea (Rep), Liechtenstein, Marshall Islands, Mexico, Micronesia (Federated States), Moldova, Monaco, Norway, Paraguay, Peru, The Philippines, Romania, Russian Federation, Switzerland, Taiwan (China), Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, Uruguay, Venezuela, Vatican City and Zimbabwe;
(d) transit passengers continuing their journey to a third country within three hours, provided holding valid onward or return documentation and not leaving the airport.

Note
All visitors must hold onward or return tickets and sufficient funds to cover stay.

Types of visa and cost
Single-entry: US$77 Multiple-entry: US$137

Validity
Visas are valid for stays of up to three months, but can be extended on application to: Immigration Dept, Level 3, Suvavou House, Victoria Parade, Suva (street address); or PO Box 2224, Government Buildings, Suva, Fiji (postal address) (tel: 331 2622).

Application to Consular section of High Commission or Embassy; see Passport/Visa Information.

Application requirements
(a) Valid passport. (b) Completed application form. (c) Three passport-size photos. (d) Onward/return air ticket. (e) Copy of travel ticket/itinerary. (f) Fee payable by banker’s draft, bank cheque or by cash (if application is made in person). (g) Police clearance report (proof of no criminal record) from local police station (must be in English). (h) Sufficient funds for duration of stay.

Note
Applicants must make their own arrangements for collection/return of passport.

Working days required
Seven to 21.

Temporary residence
Enquiries should be directed to the High Commission or Embassy of Fiji.

Passport/Visa Information
Fiji High Commision in the UK
34 Hyde Park Gate, London SW7 5DN, UK
Tel: (020) 7584 3661.
Website: www.fijihighcommission.org.uk
Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 0930-1300, 1400-1700, Fri 0930-1300, 1400-1600; Mon-Fri 0930-1230 (consular section).

Embassy of the Republic of Fiji in the USA
Suite 240, 2233 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA
Tel: (202) 337 8320.
Website: www.fijiembassy.org

Travel Advice
Penalties for possession of any amount of marijuana carry a mandatory prison sentence.
There has been an increase in robbery, theft and assault. Travelers should take appropriate precautions.
The threat from terrorism in Fiji is low, but you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.
This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organizations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: (0845) 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel

1
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travelers over one year of age arriving within 10 days of leaving infected areas.

2
Following WHO guidelines issued in 1973, a cholera vaccination certificate is not a condition of entry to Fiji. However, cholera is a serious risk in this country and precautions are essential. Up-to-date advice should be sought before deciding whether these precautions should include vaccination, as medical opinion is divided over its effectiveness.

3
Vaccination against typhoid and polio is advised.

Food and drink
Mains water is normally heavily chlorinated and, whilst relatively safe, may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled water is available and is advised for the first few weeks of the stay. Milk is pasteurized and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat.

Other risks
Diarrhoeal diseases are common. Hepatitis A occurs. Hepatitis B is endemic. Dengue fever may occur. Mosquitoes may transmit dengue fever and pandemic outbreaks occur. Personal protective measures are important. Marine hazards include corals jellyfish, sharks, sea urchins and sea snakes. Only bathe in marked and patrolled beaches.

Health care
The main hospitals are located in Ba, Labasa, Lautoka, Levuka, Savusavu, Sigatoka, Suva and Taveuni, with clinics and medical representations elsewhere throughout the islands. Medical insurance is recommended. There is a private hospital in Suva that provides western style medical care and maintains the Fiji Decompression Chamber for the benefit of scuba divers. Medical emergencies may be referred to Australia, New Zealand or the USA. Doctors and hospitals expect immediate cash payment for health services.

International cuisine is available, but the local cooking is Fijian and Indian. Table service is normal, although some establishments offer buffet-style food at lunchtime. Hotels often serve meals to non-residents. Bars and cocktail lounges have table and/or counter service. Only licensed restaurants, clubs and hotel bars can serve alcohol.

National specialties:

- Kakoda (a marinated local fish steamed in coconut cream and lime).

- Rourou (a taro leaf dish).

- Kassaua (tapioca, often boiled, baked or grated and cooked in coconut cream
with sugar and mashed bananas).

- Duruka (an unusual asparagus-like vegetable in season during April and May).

- Breadfruit.

- lovo (feast of meat, fish, vegetables and fruit cooked in covered pits).

National drinks:

- A wide range of drinks is available including the traditional kava. Traditionally, the drink was prepared by virgins, who chewed the root into a soft pulpy mass before adding water. It is made from the root of the pepper plant and the yaqona drinking ceremony is still important in the Fijian tradition, although it has also become a social drink.

- Carlton (a local beer brewed in Suva).

- Fiji Bitter (brewed in Lautoka).

- Meridan Moselle and Suvanna Moselle (local wines).

- Booth’s Gin, Bounty Fiji Golden Rum, Cossack Vodka and Old Club Whisky (produced by South Pacific Distilleries).

Tipping: Give small tips only for special services.

Favorite buys are filigree jewelry, woodcarvings (such as kava bowls), polished coconut shells, seashells, woven work (such as mats, coasters, hats, fans and trays), tapa cloth and pearls. Bargaining is not the norm in shops. Some shopkeepers will give a discount with large purchases. Duty free items are available and include cameras, televisions, watches, binoculars, clocks, lighters, hi-fi equipment, pewter, crystal and porcelain.

Shopping hours
Mon-Fri 0800-1900, Sat 0800-1300 (some shops have half-day closing on Wednesday and are open later on Friday).

Currency Information:

Fijian Dollar (FJD; symbol F$) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of F$50, 20, 10, 5 and 2. Coins are in denominations of F$1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents.

Currency exchange

Exchange facilities are available at the airport, at trading banks and at most hotels. ATMs may not accept foreign credit cards.

Credit and debit cards

American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are accepted at a number of establishments. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services which may be available. American Express, Diners Club, Visa, JCB International and MasterCard have representatives in Suva. American Express and Visa can replace lost and stolen credit cards and traveller’s cheques.

Traveller’s cheques

To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveller’s cheques in Australian Dollars or Pounds Sterling.

Currency restrictions

There are no restrictions on the import of foreign or local currency, provided declared on arrival. Unspent local currency can be re-exchanged on departure up to the amount of foreign currency imported. The export of local currency is limited to F$500. The export of foreign currency as cash is limited to the equivalent of F$500.

Banking hours

Mon-Thurs 0930-1500, Fri 0930-1600. Restricted Foreign Exchange Dealers (authorized to issue foreign currency and traveller’s cheques for travel-related purposes only): Mon-Fri 0830-1700, Sat 0830-1200.

Tropical. Southeast trade winds from March to November bring dry weather. The rainy season is from December to April. On average there are 15 cyclones per decade, affecting some part of Fiji, and two to four actually cause severe damage. They occur from November to April and with greatest frequency in January and February. There is more risk in the outlying north-west island groups.

Required clothing
Lightweight for summer, rainwear for the wet season.

Watersports

Particularly well known for their soft coral reefs, Fiji’s islands offer excellent scuba-diving and snorkeling. On Viti Levu, the best dive sites are found on the Coral Coast and Pacific Harbour (both on the western side), where the well-known Beqa Lagoon, the crater of an extinct volcano that measures 16km (10 miles) across, is often frequented by groups. About 12km (7 miles) off the Viti Levu coast, Vatulele is known for its red prawns, regarded as sacred by local people. Northwest of Viti Levu, divers may head to the Yasawa and Mamanuca island groups to the south lies
Kadavua, where the Astrolabe, Namalata, Solo and Tavuki reefs are located.

Vanua Levua and Taveuni are particularly good for land-based diving, and ecologically-minded operators have buoyed dozens of sites to prevent damage from anchors. The best sites around these islands include the Somosomo Straits (home to the Great White Wall, one of Fiji’s most famous dive sites) and the Rainbow Reef (where over 20 dive sites can be found). Live-aboard dive tours are available to the more remote islands, such as Ngau, which has no resorts and where the local chief has to grant permission to dive in the waters.

Many hotels and resorts also offer opportunities to go sailing, windsurfing, waterskiing, canoeing, kayaking, parasailing and game fishing. Surfing is a popular activity and surfers have a seemingly endless choice of locations to choose from. The famous ‘Cloud Breaker’ (6-meter wave) was found offshore at Tavarua, attracting surfers from around the world. Fiji’s waves typically break on coral reefs. Most of the well-known spots are on or near Viti Levu and can often only be reached by boat. Tavarua Island is another favorite surfing spot. There are several surf camps, notably on Beqa and Yanuca islands. Visitors should note that there are dangerous rip tides along the reefs, and should take appropriate precautions.

Adventure sports

The mangrove-lined tidal corridors can be explored on jet-boating trips, which depart every 15 minutes from Port Denauru, 7km (4 miles) from Nadi Town. Bamboo rafting (referred to locally as a bilibili ride) is available along the streams and rivers.

Hiking

Fiji’s network of marked nature trails can be explored either individually or on organized guided walks. Activities such as birdwatching (as for example in the Colo-i-Suva Forest Park), ecotourism (studying the local fauna and flora) and swimming at the waterfalls are often combined with hiking tours. Visitors are reminded to respect local customs when passing through villages (see Social Conventions in the Travel Tips section).

The Lavena Coastal Walk starts at Lavena and follows the southeastern coastline of Taveuni, ending at the Wainabau Waterfalls; the Vidawa Forest Walk is a guided trip through the Bouma Forest Park. Marked trails (including wooden walkways and bridges) also exist in the Kula Eco Park, an area of coastal rainforest rich in wildlife (including fruit bats, parrots and marine turtles).

There is much of scenic and historic worth in Fiji, including its copra, ginger, sugar cane and cocoa plantations. The capital, Suva, has many old shops and markets selling various artifacts and handicrafts. Places of historic interest include the National Museum, situated in the lush surrounds of Thurston Gardens next to Government House, and the old Parliament Buildings.

Other sites of note include the Cultural Center at Orchid Island, the mysterious earthworks just outside Suva, and the protected Bouma Forest Park and Taveuni Island Reserve. Just 11km (7 miles) from Suva, visitors can enjoy the beauty of the protected Colo-I-Suva Forest Park. Other natural attractions include the acres of orchids and flowering plants in the Garden of the Sleeping Giant at the foot of the Sabeto Mountains and the Sigatoka Sand Dunes off the main Queens Highway on Viti Levu.

Cruises on large schooners or yachts to the different islands can be arranged, and coach tours around the main islands are also available. For the hardy, hiking in the mountains with dramatic views of the islands is another option.

Tavarua is one of Fiji’s main tourist destinations, with over 50 resorts and hotels and excellent facilities for snorkeling and scuba-diving. The Outrigger Reef Resort is located in Korotogo near the scenic town of Sigatoka. It combines the qualities of mainland and island, with over 200 hotels and resorts.