Nauru

Nauru is an unremarkable 16 square mile (21km) Micronesian island, just south of the equator, with a remarkable recent past. Until recently, phosphate mines gave the islanders one of the highest per capita incomes in the world. When the mines were exhausted the island was strip-mined for trace amounts to provide some export revenue. Left with an environmentally ravaged land and little source of income the nation was awarded recompense from Australia.

Nauru then became a shelter for money laundering before international pressure closed this door as well. The latest scheme to generate sustainable income for the island has seen Nauru become an Australian detention centre. Illegal Asian emigrants are kept on the island as an international legal grey area as Nauru received aid from Australia for the service.

For tourists interested in old mines, money laundering, or detention facilities flights arrive twice a week from Australia. Like many of the Micronesian islands Nauru has picturesque palm lined beaches. Deep sea fishing, bird watching and diving are also possible for tourists.

For others, the island's little novelties might be reason to visit. Nauru is the smallest independent republic and is the least populous of United Nation members. Its people are also among the world's most obese. Unless on specific agendas, most tourists wouldn't find Nauru particularly worth visiting.

Passport Visa

All foreign passengers to Nauru must hold (i) confirmed return/onward tickets, (ii) the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, (iii) proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country, and (iv) proof of confirmed accommodation in Nauru. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required (even for transit passengers), if arriving in Nauru within six days of leaving or transiting through an infected area. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry Requirements

• US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. A visa is required.
• British citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. British passport holders, if travelling to Nauru as tourists, can obtain a visa on arrival (free of charge).
• Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. Canadian passport holders, if travelling to Nauru as tourists, can obtain a visa on arrival (free of charge).
• Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. Australian passport holders, if travelling to Nauru as tourists, can obtain a visa on arrival (free of charge).
• South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. South African passport holders, if travelling to Nauru as tourists, can obtain a visa on arrival (free of charge).
• Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. A visa is required.
• New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. Canadian passport holders, if travelling to Nauru as tourists, can obtain a visa on arrival (free of charge).

Embassy Consulates

Foreign Embassies