Fiji has announced that it no longer requires proof of vaccination or travel insurance for international travelers arriving in the country and has begun promoting its ‘zero COVID-19 travel restrictions’. This move comes almost 6 months after Fiji dropped its requirement for a COVID-19 test 72 hours after arriving.
The country has reached a 93 percent fully vaccinated rate and has recorded low hospitalization numbers, prompting the country to remove all of its COVID-19 border health measures. The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) emphasized that the focus will remain on implementing COVID-19 safety measures for those who are vulnerable.
“The industry welcomes the decision to remove all protocols, restrictions, vaccination requirements, and Covid-19 tests – and invites the world to come and experience Fiji: where happiness comes naturally,” said Brent Hill, Chief Executive of Tourism Fiji.
Fiji has been much slower in removing its travel restrictions surrounding COVID-19 when compared to other countries. It has taken a more conservative approach to its tourism, but its emphasis on safety procedures and protocols will be enticing for travelers who are COVID-conscious and who are looking for destinations that meet their preferred health standards.
With over 333 islands to explore, white-sanded beaches, a friendly culture, and a relaxing setting, the country recorded a good recovery in tourist numbers last year but was still off from its pre-pandemic levels. Fiji welcomed over 630,000 travelers, representing 71% of travelers in 2019. The national airline, Fiji Airways, has set its eyes on carrying 2 million passengers in 2023, as the country is trying to position itself away from being an exotic location that is hard to reach.
Fiji Airways is making it easier to connect Americans to these beautiful islands through its regular connections from the West Coast to Nadi and offers affordable pricing that competes with comparable destinations like Hawaii or Tahiti.
What Are The Entry Requirements For Travelers
Tourism Fiji has begun promoting its “Zero Travel Restrictions” across its website and social platforms and highlighting the country as a safe destination to travel to. Travelers no longer need to take a COVID test, have proof of vaccination, or obtain travel insurance to enter the country.
Although travel insurance is not mandatory, Tourism Fiji strongly recommends it for peace of mind when traveling.
What Health & Safety Protocols Has Fiji Introduced For Travelers
The aviation and tourism industries have implemented several COVID-safe protocols to ensure travelers feel safe when visiting. These include:
Care Fiji Commitment – Fiji Tourism Industry
Fiji has introduced a certification that reflects the WHO-approved standard of best health and safety practices. This certification is used for accommodation and tourism operations, and Fiji Tourism claims that most of the operators in the tourism sector have been certified or approved. The tourism board recommends staying at a CFC-certified accommodation.
Travel Ready Program with Fiji Airways: the country’s national airline created a travel-ready program back in 2020 that had its own task force working with health authorities and following guidance from the World Health Organization. This program has continued to remain in effect and provides guidance for travelers.
The airline was awarded a Diamond certification by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) and SimpliFlying for its high standards in travel precautions for COVID-19. This is the highest rating to achieve and represents hospital-grade health safety measures. Fiji Airlines is also one of six airlines that have received the SKYTRAX 5-Star COVID-19 Airline Safety Rating, which evaluated COVID-19 safe travel.
ACI Accreditation – Fiji Airport: Nadi International Airport was the first South Pacific airport to receive the Airports Council International’s (ACI) Airport Health Accreditation for its Travel Safe program. Its Travel Safe program includes practices such as cleaning and sanitization of the airport, staff protection, physical distancing and layout, and communication with passengers.
