{"slug":"tuvalu","title":"Tuvalu travel advice","updated_at":"2026-03-19T14:07:18+00:00","reviewed_at":"2026-03-19T14:07:18Z","change_description":"Updated information about global travel impacts due to escalation in the Middle East (‘Warnings and insurance’ page).","web_url":"https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/tuvalu","entry_requirements_html":"

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.

\n\n

The authorities in Tuvalu set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Honorary Consul for Tuvalu in the UK.  

\n\n

Passport validity requirements 

\n\n

To enter Tuvalu, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive. 

\n\n

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.  

\n\n

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. 

\n\n

Dual nationals

\n\n

When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.

\n\n

Visa requirements 

\n\n

You can visit Tuvalu without a visa for up to one month.  

\n\n

To stay longer than one month or to work, study, travel for business or other reasons, you must get an extension from the Department of Immigration in Funafuti.  

\n\n

Vaccine requirements  

\n\n

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Tuvalu guide. 

\n\n

Customs rules 

\n\n

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Tuvalu. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

\n\n","safety_html":"

Terrorism  

\n\n

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.      

\n\n

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

\n\n

Terrorism in Tuvalu 

\n\n

Although there is no recent history of terrorism in Tuvalu, attacks cannot be ruled out. 

\n\n

Laws and cultural differences  

\n\n

Illegal drugs and prison sentences 

\n\n

It is illegal to import, export, cultivate or distribute drugs. Penalties include fines and imprisonment. 

\n\n

LGBT+ travellers 

\n\n

Homosexuality is illegal in Tuvalu. If you’re found guilty of consensual sex between adult males, you could face up to 14 years in prison. 

\n\n

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers. 

\n\n

Internet and phone services 

\n\n

There is one local mobile network in Tuvalu, other international networks will not work. You can buy local SIM cards in Funafuti. 

\n\n

Money 

\n\n

There are no ATMs in Tuvalu, and credit or debit card payments are not accepted. Bring enough Australian dollars in cash with you for the duration of your trip. 

\n\n

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism  

\n\n

Swimming safety 

\n\n

Take care when swimming, diving or snorkelling in the sea as currents can be extremely strong. Coral reefs can easily cause cuts and scrapes. If you decide to scuba dive, make sure you use a reputable, fully licensed company with up-to-date equipment and necessary safety features. Deaths and serious accidents have occurred because basic safety measures were not in place. There are limited medical facilities in Tuvalu. 

\n\n

Swimming in Funafuti lagoon is not recommended as it is highly polluted. 

\n\n

See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society. 

\n\n

Transport risks  

\n\n

Sea travel 

\n\n

Before travelling in any vessel, check: 

\n\n\n\n

Road travel  

\n\n

If you are planning to drive in Tuvalu, see information on driving abroad.  

\n\n

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Tuvalu for up to 2 weeks. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well.  

\n\n

Extreme weather and natural disasters 

\n\n

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards. 

\n\n

Tropical cyclones 

\n\n

The tropical cyclone season normally runs from November to May, but cyclones can happen throughout the year. During cyclone season there is a greater risk of strong winds and heavy rains, flooding, landslides and road closures.  

\n\n

Monitor local and international weather updates from the Tuvalu Meteorological Service, in local newspapers and on Tuvalu Media Department Radio on 621 AM. 

\n\n

Earthquakes and tsunamis 

\n\n

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake and resulting tsunamis. 

\n\n","customs_snippets":["You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.","It is illegal to import, export, cultivate or distribute drugs.","Bring enough Australian dollars in cash with you for the duration of your trip."]}