Papua New Guinea introduced its electronic visa system to simplify entry for international travelers. The eVisa Papua New Guinea program allows applicants to submit their visa request online through the Immigration and Citizenship Authority (ICA) portal, removing the need to visit an embassy in person. This guide covers every aspect of the PNG eVisa — from eligibility and application steps to fees, processing times, and what happens after approval.
What Is the Papua New Guinea eVisa?
The PNG eVisa is an electronic travel authorization issued by the Immigration and Citizenship Authority of Papua New Guinea. Instead of a physical visa stamp or label in your passport, the approval is sent digitally. Immigration officers at Port Moresby International Jacksons Airport verify your eVisa using your passport details upon arrival.
The eVisa system covers several visa categories:
- Easy Visitor Permit — single entry, valid for 30 or 60 days depending on nationality
- Tourist Visa (Own Itinerary) — single entry, valid for 6 months, stay up to 60 days
- Tourist Visa (Tour Package) — for group travelers with registered tour operators
- Business Visa — single entry for short-term business activities
- Business Short-term Multiple Entry — valid for 12 months, 60 days per visit
- Journalist Visa — for media professionals
- Aid Worker or Volunteer Visa — for NGO and humanitarian workers
Each category has specific document requirements and fee structures.
Who Can Apply for a PNG eVisa?
Citizens of all countries can apply for an eVisa Papua New Guinea. However, the type of visa you qualify for depends on your nationality.
Easy Visitor Permit (EVP) countries include citizens of Australia, New Zealand, United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, Singapore, and most European Union member states. These travelers get a streamlined process with fewer documentation requirements.
All other nationalities must apply for a standard Tourist Visa or Business Visa through the eVisa portal. The key difference is that standard tourist visas require additional supporting documents such as a detailed itinerary, proof of accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds.
Visa on arrival is still available for citizens of select countries including Canada, Pacific Island nations, and holders of diplomatic or official passports from China. However, the ICA strongly recommends using the eVisa system even if you qualify for visa on arrival.
PNG eVisa Requirements
Before starting your application, gather these documents:
Mandatory Documents
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity from your intended date of entry
- One blank passport page for entry stamps
- Recent passport-style photograph (digital upload)
- Return or onward flight booking confirmation
- Proof of accommodation in Papua New Guinea
Additional Documents by Visa Type
For Tourist Visa:
- Detailed travel itinerary
- Bank statements showing sufficient funds (last 3 months)
- Employment letter or proof of income
For Business Visa:
- Invitation letter from a business associate or company in PNG
- Letter from your employer stating the purpose of the trip
- Business registration documents of the inviting company
For Journalist Visa:
- Letter from your media organization
- Assignment details and planned coverage areas
Passport Photo Specifications
The digital photo must meet these requirements:
- Taken within the last 6 months
- White or light-colored background
- 35mm x 45mm dimensions
- Clear face visibility, no glasses or head coverings (unless for religious reasons)
- JPEG or PNG format, file size under 1MB
How to Apply for PNG eVisa Online
The application process takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes if you have all documents ready.
Step 1: Create an Account
Visit the official ICA eVisa portal at evisa.ica.gov.pg. Click “Register” and provide your email address, create a password, and verify your email through the confirmation link sent to your inbox.
Step 2: Select Your Visa Type
Choose the appropriate visa category from the dropdown menu. Options include Visitor, Business, Journalist, Aid Worker, and others. Select “Visitor” for tourism purposes.
Step 3: Fill in Personal Details
Enter your full name (exactly as shown on your passport), date of birth, nationality, passport number, and contact information. Double-check all entries — discrepancies between your application and passport can cause delays or denial.
Step 4: Upload Documents
Upload clear scans or photos of:
- Passport biodata page
- Passport photograph
- Supporting documents (varies by visa type)
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
Fees are paid online via credit or debit card:
- Easy Visitor Permit: USD 50
- Tourist Visa: USD 50
- Business Visa: USD 50
- Multiple Entry Business Visa: varies (check ICA portal for current rates)
Step 6: Submit and Wait
After submission, you receive a reference number. Use this number to check your PNG visa status on the ICA portal. Processing typically takes 3 to 5 business days, though some applications are approved within 24 to 48 hours.
PNG eVisa Processing Time
Processing times vary based on visa type and application volume:
| Visa Type | Typical Processing | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Easy Visitor Permit | 24–72 hours | Fastest option for eligible nationalities |
| Tourist Visa | 3–5 business days | May take longer during peak travel season |
| Business Visa | 3–7 business days | Invitation letter must be detailed |
| Journalist Visa | 5–10 business days | Requires media organization verification |
| Multiple Entry Business | 5–10 business days | Additional security checks apply |
Peak seasons (November through February, coinciding with PNG’s dry season and major cultural events) may see longer processing times. Apply at least 2 weeks before your intended travel date.
PNG eVisa Status Check
After submitting your application, you can track its progress:
1. Log in to your account at evisa.ica.gov.pg
2. Navigate to “My Applications”
3. View the current status: Submitted, Under Review, Approved, or Denied
4. Download your eVisa approval letter when the status shows “Approved”
Print the approval letter and carry it with your passport. Airlines may request it before allowing you to board your flight to PNG.
PNG eVisa Fees Summary
| Visa Category | Fee (USD) | Validity | Max Stay | Entries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Easy Visitor Permit | $50 | 30 or 60 days | 30 or 60 days | Single |
| Tourist – Own Itinerary | $50 | 6 months | 60 days | Single |
| Tourist – Tour Package | $50 | 6 months | 60 days | Single |
| Business Single Entry | $50 | 6 months | 30 days | Single |
| Business Multiple Entry | Varies | 12 months | 60 days per visit | Multiple |
Fees are non-refundable regardless of the application outcome. The fee is the same whether applied online or at an embassy.
After Your eVisa Is Approved
Once approved, take these steps before departure:
- Print your eVisa approval letter (digital copies on your phone are acceptable as backup)
- Confirm your passport validity (minimum 6 months from entry date)
- Book your flights to Port Moresby or other PNG entry points
- Arrange accommodation for at least the first night
- Prepare proof of onward travel — immigration officers may ask
Upon arrival at Jacksons International Airport, proceed to the immigration counter with your passport and printed eVisa. The officer will verify your details and stamp your passport.
Common Reasons for eVisa Rejection
Understanding why applications get denied helps you avoid mistakes:
- Passport validity less than 6 months — the most common reason for rejection
- Blurry or incorrect document uploads — passport scan and photo must be clear
- Incomplete application — leaving required fields blank
- Name mismatch — application name does not match passport exactly
- Insufficient funds proof — bank statements must show adequate balance
- Criminal history concerns — undisclosed convictions can result in denial
If your application is denied, you can reapply after addressing the issues cited in the rejection notice. There is no appeal process; you must submit a new application with the correct information.
Extending Your PNG eVisa
The Easy Visitor Permit cannot be extended. If you need a longer stay, apply for a Tourist Visa (Own Itinerary) which allows extensions.
To extend your stay:
1. Visit the ICA office in Port Moresby before your current visa expires
2. Submit an extension request with justification
3. Pay the applicable extension fee
4. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities
Overstaying your visa results in fines, detention, and potential deportation. Always track your visa expiry date carefully.
Digital Arrival Card
Papua New Guinea also requires a digital arrival card, which must be submitted online up to 72 hours before arrival. This is separate from the eVisa and applies to all arriving passengers. The digital arrival card collects your personal details, flight information, accommodation address, and health declarations.
Submit the digital arrival card at the ICA website after your eVisa is approved but before your flight departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a PNG eVisa?
Processing time depends on the visa type. Easy Visitor Permits are typically processed within 24 to 72 hours. Tourist and Business Visas take 3 to 5 business days. During peak travel seasons, processing may take up to 7 business days. Apply at least 2 weeks before your trip to allow sufficient time.
Can I get a PNG eVisa on arrival?
No, the eVisa must be obtained online before departure. However, citizens of certain countries (including Canada and Pacific Island nations) are eligible for visa on arrival at Port Moresby airport. The eVisa system is recommended for all travelers to avoid potential delays at immigration.
How much does a Papua New Guinea eVisa cost?
The standard fee for most PNG eVisa types is USD 50. This applies to Easy Visitor Permits, Tourist Visas, and single-entry Business Visas. Multiple-entry Business Visas have different fees — check the ICA portal for current pricing.
What happens if my PNG eVisa is denied?
If denied, the ICA provides a reason for the rejection. You can address the issue and submit a new application. There is no formal appeal process. Common fixes include providing clearer documents, correcting name spelling, or ensuring sufficient passport validity.
Do I need to print my eVisa approval?
Yes, print a physical copy of your eVisa approval letter. While digital copies on your phone are acceptable as backup, airlines at your departure airport may require a printed version before allowing you to board. Having a printed copy also speeds up immigration processing on arrival.
Can I work in Papua New Guinea with an eVisa?
No, all visitor and tourist eVisa categories prohibit paid employment. To work in PNG, you need an Employment Visa or Specialist Visa, which requires a separate application process with employer sponsorship. Attempting to work on a visitor visa is a serious immigration violation.
