Visa on arrival reinstated for tourists

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Papua New Guinea has reinstated visas on arrival for Australia citizens visiting for tourism purposes after a two-year ban.

What does the change mean? Australian passport holders visiting Papua New Guinea for tourism purposes only may apply for a visa upon arrival at designated airports for stays of up to 30 days (non-extendable).

• Implementation time frame: Immediate. The policy change was announced 23 June.
• Visas/permits affected: Visas on arrival.
• Who is affected: Australian tourists visiting Papua New Guinea.
• Impact on processing times: Australian tourists will not need to obtain visas before travelling.
• Business impact: At this time, visas on arrival for business visitors have not been reinstated; Australian business visitors are still required to obtain visas before travelling to Papua New Guinea.

Background: Papua New Guinea imposed the ban on visas on arrival for Australian travellers in March 2014 in response to Australia’s refusal to allow reciprocal visas on arrival to Papua New Guinea citizens, who are still required to obtain visas before travelling to Australia. The ban included business and tourist travellers.

Last month, the Papua New Guinea Immigration and Citizenship Services Authority issued a circular reinstating visas on arrival for tourists, but did not mention business travellers. Australian visitors travelling for tourist purposes may obtain a visa on arrival at Jacksons International, Gurney, Mount Hagen and Tokua Airports upon showing a passport valid for more than six months beyond the date of entry, a return or onward ticket and evidence of sufficient funds. The visa on arrival is valid for 30 days and cannot be extended.

BAL Analysis: Australian business travellers are reminded that they are still required to obtain visas before travelling to Papua New Guinea.

This alert has been provided by BAL Australia. For additional information, please contact australia@bal.com.

MARN: 9683856

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