No visa is required to enter Tonga by citizens of the US, Canada, the UK and most other European countries, Australia, and New Zealand for a period of up to 30 days for tourism purposes. You can gain a visa on entry provided that you have at least six months’ validity on your passport and an onward ticket. All visitors are required to hold a valid yellow fever certificate to gain entry.
Health and Safety
A valid yellow fever certificate is required to enter Tonga. If you do not have an up-to-date vaccine, you need to seek one six to eight weeks before you travel. There is no prevalence of malaria in Tonga. However, dengue fever is prevalent so every care should be taken to defend against insect bites by covering up exposed skin and applying insect repellent.
Public healthcare in Tonga is basic, and some medical facilities lack certain pharmaceuticals or equipment. You should ensure the following vaccinations are up to date before you travel to Tonga: hepatitis A and B, rabies, tetanus, and typhoid. If these immunizations are not current, you should seek boosters at least six weeks before travel.
The crime rate is extremely low in Tonga, although opportunistic theft does take place. You should take care of your belongings and be especially vigilant when walking around at night, particularly if you are alone.
Tonga is part of the Pacific ‘Ring of Fire’, meaning that volcanic eruptions and earthquakes are common, sometimes causing tsunamis. There is an early warning system in place in Tonga to alert people of any potential danger. You should take note of any safety procedures or evacuation instructions at your accommodation in the event of an emergency. You can check seismic activity for yourself by visiting: www.earthquake.usgs.gov.
Tonga is at risk of tropical cyclones between November and April. At this time, there is a prevalence of strong winds and heavy rains which can cause flooding, landslides, and road closures that may interrupt transportation and logistics. You can seek weather warnings by visiting: www.wmo.ch.