Travel Advisory for Vanuatu
22 December 2024
In view of the declaration of a 7-day state of emergency with imposed curfew by the Government of Vanuatu after the devastation caused by a massive earthquake near Port Vila on 17 December 2024, Singaporeans should defer all non-essential travel to Vanuatu. There have been multiple aftershocks, causing widespread local infrastructure damage, including to roads and buildings. Essential services, including telecommunications, have been disrupted. Transport services, including flights, have been impacted.
Singaporeans who are already in Vanuatu should remain alert to your surrounding environment as aftershocks may continue, and damaged buildings and infrastructure may pose safety hazard. Please be vigilant, monitor the situation closely, heed the advice of the local authorities and leave as soon as possible for safer areas, where necessary.
Singaporeans are also encouraged to eRegister with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg so that we can contact you should the need arise. Singaporeans should also purchase comprehensive travel insurance and familiarise themselves with the policy’s terms and coverage.
Singapore has no diplomatic presence in Vanuatu, which constrains our ability to extend consular assistance in an emergency. Singaporeans in need of consular assistance may contact the 24-hour Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office at:
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office (24-hr)
Address: Tanglin, Singapore 248163
Tel: +65 6379 8800/8855
Email: mfa_duty_officer@mfa.gov.sgSingaporeans are advised to contact their travel agent or refer to the official Vanuatu Department of Immigration website (www.immigration.gov.vu) and the Vanuatu tourism website (https://www.vanuatu.travel/en/planning/planning-travel-information/planning-permits-immigration) for the latest information. You may also contact the Visa Officer of the Vanuatu Immigration Services at rdavid@vanuatu.gov.vu or via their hotline at +678 22354/+678 5389753.
Do not leave your belongings unattended and be aware of your surroundings. Stay vigilant, travel in groups, and avoid going out at night alone. Know your risk appetite and ensure that you purchase comprehensive travel insurance that will cover your chosen activity. Travellers should note that medical facilities on the islands are limited and that medical evacuation can be expensive.
Travellers are advised to dress appropriately and be aware of local sensitivities, especially when outside resort areas.
Overseas Travel – Be Informed & Be Safe [Updated on 5 February 2024]
Singaporeans planning overseas travel are reminded to take the necessary precautions, including being prepared to deal with accidents, natural disasters or terrorist attacks. Singaporeans are also reminded to be familiar with your destination’s local laws, customs, and COVID-19 regulations.
Demonstrations do occur in major cities across the world. Such demonstrations can sometimes escalate into violence. It is important for Singaporeans to keep abreast of local news, avoid any protests or demonstrations and heed the advice of the local authorities.
When participating in outdoor leisure activities overseas, Singaporeans should be mindful that certain sporting activities, especially in open seas, may carry risks. Besides ensuring that one has the physical competencies and appropriate condition to undertake the activity, every effort should be made to ascertain if the trip organiser or guide is reliable and competent, and that appropriate safety and contingency plans are in place. When in doubt, Singaporeans should consult the relevant professional bodies or sporting associations for specific advice.
For those planning to travel, here are some tips:
Before travelling
While travelling
Advisory: Email Scams
There have been reports of individuals receiving scam emails/messages purportedly sent from friends in distress overseas. These emails/messages typically originate from an email address/social media known to the receiver bearing claims of the sender getting into trouble overseas and urgently requesting financial assistance. The sender would also claim to have approached a Singapore Embassy/Consulate and the local Police for help to no avail.
MFA takes the safety of all Singaporeans very seriously. Singaporeans in distress approaching our Overseas Missions for assistance will be rendered with all necessary consular assistance. If you receive such emails/messages from purported friends seeking funds transfers, we strongly advise you to call them first to verify the authenticity of the emails/messages before responding to their request. It is also not advisable to give out any personal information such as NRIC/passport numbers, address, telephone number, etc. Any form of reply, even one of non-interest, could result in more unsolicited emails. Members of the public who suspect that they have fallen prey to such scams should report the matter to the Police immediately. Should Singaporeans abroad require consular assistance, they can contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hr Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a ministry of the Government of Singapore responsible for conducting and managing diplomatic relations between Singapore and other countries and regions.
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