2. ATTENTION
OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the region(s) specified below. (IDW5)
You are advised against all travel to the Southern Highlands province and Enga province. Law and order remain very poor in other Highlands provinces and in the cities of Port Moresby and Lae. The security situation on Bougainville Island has improved. However, Canadians are advised against all travel to the central mountainous area around the old Panguna mine. The old Panguna mine is a “no go zone”. Passports may be confiscated by the Papua New Guinea government if travellers are found without proper authorization. There are no tourist facilities, and transportation facilities are limited. Canadians should seek advice from the Australian High Commission in Port Moresby prior to travel.
There is a heightened threat of terrorism throughout Southeast Asia. Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times. Exercise caution, particularly in commercial and public establishments (hotels, clubs, restaurants, bars, schools, places of worship, outdoor recreation events) and tourist areas frequented by foreigners.
OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians who choose to travel to the region(s) specified despite this warning should register with the responsible Canadian government office in this country. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form. Canadians visiting other areas of the country for three months or more should also register. Canadians visiting for less than three months are strongly advised to: (a) leave a detailed travel itinerary and contact information with family or friends in Canada; (b) provide family with the emergency number for Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (1 800 267-6788 or 613-944-6788); and (c) keep the phone number of the responsible Canadian government office on hand (see Section 7 below).
BACK TO TOP
3. SAFETY AND SECURITY
Sporadic outbreaks of violence occur. Violent crime is a serious threat, especially in Port Moresby. Car hijackings and armed robberies occur in Port Moresby and in certain locations along the highway between Lae and the Nadzab Airport. Travellers should remain vigilant while travelling this road, especially the two and nine mile settlement areas.
Outbreaks of ethnic and tribal violence, with the use of machetes and firearms, have occurred in Lae, Port Moresby, the Highlands and Enga provinces. Crime occurs in Lae, Mount Hagen and other urban centres.
Armed robbery, vehicle hijackings, and sexual assault, including gang rape, occur and have resulted in death. Foreigners have been targeted. Hiking in rural areas and visiting isolated public areas such as parks, golf courses, or beaches can be dangerous.
Women should dress conservatively in public. Foreign Affairs Canada publishes a booklet,
Her Own Way, specifically targeted at female travellers. Its prime objective is to inform and inspire Canadian women to travel safely.
Demonstrations and public protests, which may turn violent, should be avoided.
The Kokoda Track has reopened. Canadians intending to walk the track should travel with a guide from a reputable tour company and pay the required fee prior to walking the trail. There have been security incidents involving tourists in the past. Facilities along the track are limited. Canadians should register with the Australian High Commission in Port Moresby prior to travel.
BACK TO TOP
4. LOCAL TRAVEL
Traffic drives on the left. Driving conditions can be hazardous, especially outside major towns. Do not leave personal belongings unattended in vehicles. Drive with windows up and car doors locked at all times.
Public transportation, known locally as PMVs (public motor vehicles), is unsafe and dangerous due to poorly maintained vehicles and the risk of petty theft. Taxi fares should be determined before departure.
Do not travel alone, as this increases the risk of robbery and rape. Tolls are sometimes demanded at illegal roadblocks. Assault can occur if payment is not made. Do not travel after dark. Arrange to be met at the airport, particularly when arriving after dark. Drivers involved in an accident should proceed directly to the nearest police station rather than remaining at the scene. Crowds tend to form quickly after an accident and may attack those they perceive to be responsible.
BACK TO TOP
5. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE
Papua New Guinea is located in an active seismic zone. There are active volcanoes in Rabaul, Bougainville, West New Britain, and Manam. Canadians should know the address and telephone number of the Australian High Commission in Port Moresby in the event of an emergency.
The monsoon season extends from December to March in the northwest and May to October in the southeast. Landslides occur, especially on the Highlands Highway between Lae and Mount Hagen. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.
See our Current Issues page for information on typhoons and monsoons.
BACK TO TOP
6. LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.
Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 7 below. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.
The Department publishes A Guide for Canadians Imprisoned Abroad, specifically targeted at incarcerated Canadians. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian detainees, their families, and friends about available assistance and advice.
Homosexuality is illegal. Convicted offenders may face lengthy jail sentences.
BACK TO TOP
7. ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD
There is no resident Canadian government office in Papua New Guinea. Canadians in Papua New Guinea can obtain consular assistance and further information from the Australian High Commission in Port Moresby (under the Canada-Australia Consular Services Sharing Agreement) at the following address:
Papua New Guinea - PORT MORESBY, Australian High Commission
Address: Godwit Road, Waigani, NCD, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
Tel.: 675 325-9333
Fax: 675 325-9239
Internet: http://www.png.embassy.gov.au/
The High Commission of Canada in Canberra, Australia, has consular responsibility for Papua New Guinea. The address is as follows:
Australia - CANBERRA, High Commission of Canada
Address: Commonwealth Avenue, Canberra ACT 2600, Australia
Tel.: 61 (2) 6270-4000
Fax: 61 (2) 6270-4081
E-mail: cnbra@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.international.gc.ca/australia
For emergency assistance after hours, call the Australian High Commission in Port Moresby and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.
BACK TO TOP
8. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS
The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the authorities of Papua New Guinea and, to the best of our knowledge, was valid on March 24, 2006. However, entry and exit requirements are subject to change.
It is the sole prerogative of each country to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the country or countries to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.
Foreign Affairs Canada’s Office of Protocol provides contact details for the Embassy of Papua New Guinea, where you can obtain further information on entry and exit requirements.
A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Papua New Guinea. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from the country. Canadians must also be in possession of a visa, an onward or return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds. Holders of valid Canadian passports may obtain temporary business or tourist visas (valid for stays of up to 60 days) upon arrival at Jackson's International Airport in Port Moresby.
Tourist Visa: Required
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required
__________________________________________
Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify visa requirements for this and other countries, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.
Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.
Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.
Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.
BACK TO TOP
9. MONEY
The currency is the kina. Credit cards are accepted at major hotels and restaurants. American Express is the most commonly used. Traveller's cheques are accepted by most shops and hotels. U.S. dollar traveller's cheques are recommended.
Canadian currency and traveller's cheques are not widely accepted worldwide. Check with your bank for information on ATM services in other countries. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ATMs around the world. Your bank can advise if you need a new personal identification number (PIN) for overseas access to your account. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ATMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.
BACK TO TOP
10. GENERAL INFORMATION
Papua New Guinea (capital: Port Moresby) is a group of islands located in the Coral Sea, east of Indonesia. The official languages are English, Pidgin and Motu. Tourist facilities are available in Port Moresby, Lae, and Madang.
BACK TO TOP
11. TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM
The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Medicine Program Web site.
The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.
Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.
The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.
BACK TO TOP
12. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION
Medical care is limited, especially outside Port Moresby. Shortages of basic medical supplies are common. There are long delays for emergency treatment. Serious injuries may require medical evacuation to Australia.
BACK TO TOP
13. RETURNING TO CANADA
Please consult the Current Issue on returning to Canada.
BACK TO TOP
14. INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS
N/A
BACK TO TOP
15. TRAVEL TIPS
Please consult our Traveller's Checklist.
BACK TO TOP
16. HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE
Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.
Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.
BACK TO TOP
17. FOR MORE INFORMATION
N/A
BACK TO TOP
18. ANNEX
N/A
BACK TO TOP
