International travel and COVID-19
Before travelling:
- be sure to get vaccinated, and complete any additional recommended doses, at least 14 days before your departure
- review the travel health notice for COVID-19 and International Travel
If you have not completed a COVID-19 vaccine series, you should continue to avoid non-essential travel to all destinations.
Useful links
Solomon Islands travel advice
Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)
Last updated: ET
On this page
- Risk level
- Safety and security
- Entry and exit requirements
- Health
- Laws and culture
- Natural disasters and climate
- Need help?
Risk level
Solomon Islands - Take normal security precautions
Take normal security precautions in the Solomon Islands.
Safety and security
COVID-19 - Preventative measures and restrictions
COVID-19 preventative measures and restrictions are still in effect in some destinations.
These could include:
- curfews, movement restrictions, or lockdowns
- mandatory mask use
- required proof of vaccination or a COVID-19 test result to access public and private services and spaces
Before travelling, verify if specific restrictions or requirements are still in effect.
Crime
Petty crime
Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and theft, occurs.
- Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
- Carry only what you need
- Don’t bring valuables to the beach
Violent crime
There have been violent crime incidents against foreigners, particularly in Honiara. Crime usually increases in the period leading up to Christmas.
It may include:
- physical and sexual assault
- indecent exposure and harassment
- armed robberies
- car and house break-ins
- carjacking
Police are limited in their ability to respond effectively.
- Avoid travelling alone or after dark
- Ensure that you have adequate security measures in place at your accommodation
- Ensure to lock doors and windows at all times
- Exercise particular caution in bars, nightclubs, beaches and public transportation
Demonstrations and civil unrest
Demonstrations occur regularly, especially in Honiara and Malaita. Civil unrest and political violence may occur.
Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Water activities
Swimming
Beaches are not usually supervised by lifeguards. Tidal changes can cause powerful currents in the coastal lagoons that surround the islands. Riptides are common. Several drownings occur each year.
Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards.
- Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
- Follow the instructions and warnings of local authorities
Diving
Tour operators may not adhere to international standards.
If you undertake adventure sports, such as diving:
- choose a well-established and reputable company that has insurance
- ensure that your travel insurance covers the recreational activities you choose
If in doubt concerning the safety of the facilities or equipment, don’t use them.
Adventure tourism
Tourist facilities are limited, especially outside of Honiara. Telecommunications may be unreliable.
If engaging in adventure tourism:
- never do so alone
- always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
- buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
- ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
- ensure that you’re properly equipped
- ensure that you’re well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
- inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
- obtain detailed information on each activity before setting out
Wildlife
There are saltwater crocodiles and sharks in parts of the Solomon Islands but no warning signs to indicate their presence.
Follow the advice of local communities when considering water activities.
Unexploded ordnance
Unexploded ordnance from World War II may pose a risk in certain areas, particularly in:
- Hell’s Point and the ridges behind Honiara
- the New Georgia group of islands
- Russell Islands
- Tulagi Island
If you hike, dive or boat in the Solomon Islands:
- avoid doing so after daylight hours
- don’t venture off marked trails
- avoid areas where sunken vessels or planes haven been reported
- don’t touch war remnants and unknown items and report these to local authorities
Road safety
Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the islands. The only paved roads, of which have many potholes, are in and around Honiara. Four-wheel drive vehicles are necessary.
Drivers are reckless and don’t respect traffic laws.
Driving conditions may be hazardous during the rainy season.
- Avoid driving after dark
- Be particularly vigilant during the rainy season
- Be mindful of stray and roaming animals
Public transportation
Buses
Minis-bus services are available in certain cities but are generally unreliable and unsafe. Petty theft is common.
Taxis
Taxis are generally safe in Honiara. Some drivers may overcharge their clients.
- Avoid hailing taxis on the street
- Use only officially marked taxis or book it through your hotel or tour operator
- Negotiate fares in advance
Ferries
Inter-island ferry is unsafe. Safety standards are minimal. Accidents may occur due to the overloading and poor maintenance of some vessels.
Do not board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy.
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
General information about foreign domestic airlines
Entry and exit requirements
COVID-19 - Entry, exit and transit restrictions and requirements
Most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions and requirements for their territory due to COVID-19. These measures can be imposed suddenly and may include:
- entry or exit bans
- quarantine
- mandatory proof of vaccination or COVID-19 testing
- suspensions or reductions of international transportation options
Foreign authorities might not recognize or accept proof of vaccination issued by Canadian provinces and territories. You may need to obtain a translation, a notarization, an authentication, or the legalization of the document.
Before travelling:
- verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any restrictions or requirements related to this situation
- consider even your transit points, as there are transit rules in place in many destinations
- monitor the media for the latest information
- reconfirm the requirements with your airline or tour operator
The situation could disrupt your travel plans. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance to change your travel plans.
Useful links
- Travel restrictions and health requirements - United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and International Air Transport Association (IATA)
- Foreign Representatives in Canada
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the authorities of the Solomon Islands. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Solomon Islands.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Passport with “X” gender identifier
While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 90 days in a 12-month period
Business visa: not required for stays of up to 30 days
Student visa: required
Health requirements
A test for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is required to obtain or renew a visa or a residency permit for stays over 90 days. If you test positive for HIV, you may be subject to detention or deportation.
If you enter the Solomon Islands with HIV/AIDS antiretroviral medication for personal use, you may also be subject to scrutiny, detention or deportation.
Other entry requirements
Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Children and travel
Learn about travel with children.
Health
Relevant Travel Health Notices
- Global Measles Notice - 8 September, 2022
- Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 28 June, 2022
- COVID-19 and International Travel - 23 September, 2022
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Pre-travel vaccines and medications
You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines are right for you.
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from a country where yellow fever occurs.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
- Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
- Contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.
Japanese encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain. It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.
Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:
- travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
- making multiple trips to endemic areas
- staying for extended periods in rural areas
- visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
- engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)
Measles - Proof of vaccination
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Proof of vaccination:
Travellers arriving to the Solomon Islands from American Samoa, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Australia, New Zealand and the Philippines are required to provide certified proof of measles vaccination 3 weeks prior to their arrival date. Failure to produce certified proof of vaccination will result in deportation.
These requirements are not applicable to infants less than 6 months of age, pregnant women, and persons carrying documentary evidence of contraindications for vaccine administration, such as immune-deficiency or allergies (certificate from doctor). Contact information: The Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Solomon Islands Government. Tel: (677) 23650.
To obtain proof of vaccination, contact your health care professional or your local public health authority.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.
COVID-19
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.
For destination entry and exit requirements, including for COVID-19 vaccination requirements, please check the Entry/exit requirements section.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Malaria
- There is a risk of malaria throughout the year in the whole country.
- Malaria is a serious and occasionally fatal disease that is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no vaccine against malaria.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. This includes covering up, using insect repellent and staying in enclosed air-conditioned accommodations. You may also consider pre-treating clothing and travel gear with insecticides and sleeping under an insecticide-treated bednet.
- See a health care provider or visit a travel health clinic, preferably six weeks before you travel to discuss the benefits of taking antimalarial medication and to determine which one to take.
Food and Water-borne Diseases
Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.
In some areas in the Oceanic Pacific Islands, food and water can also carry diseases like hepatitis A. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in the Oceanic Pacific Islands. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Travellers' diarrhea
Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Insects and Illness
In some areas in the Oceanic Pacific Islands, certain insects carry and spread diseases like chikungunya, dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, lymphatic filariasis, malaria and Zika virus.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Chikungunya
There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The risk may vary between regions of a country. Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.
Dengue
- In this country, dengue is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
- Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
- The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
- Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.
Zika virus
Zika virus is a risk in this country.
Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.
Pregnant women and women planning a pregnancy should visit a health care professional before travelling to discuss the potential risks of travelling to this country. Pregnant women may choose to avoid or postpone travel to this country.
Travel recommendations:
- Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
- If you are pregnant, always use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact with anyone who has travelled to this country for the duration of your pregnancy.
- Women: Wait 2 months after travel to this country or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer) before trying for a pregnancy. If your male partner travelled with you, wait 3 months after travel or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer).
- Men: Wait 3 months after travel to this country or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer) before trying for a pregnancy.
For more travel recommendations, see the travel health notice: Zika virus: Advice for travellers
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Certain infections found in the Oceanic Pacific Islands, like rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
Person-to-Person Infections
Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.
For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.
Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.
High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.
Medical services and facilities
COVID-19 - Testing
Contact local health authorities, or the nearest Government of Canada office abroad to find out where you can get a COVID-19 test.
Healthcare is limited throughout the Solomon Islands. Up front payment may be required.
Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.
Useful links
Dress and behaviour
To avoid offending local sensitivities:
- dress conservatively
- behave discreetly
- respect religious and social traditions
- don’t photograph locals without asking permission
- don’t swear in public
- avoid displays of affection
LGBTQ2 travellers
The laws of the Solomon Islands criminalize sexual acts and relationships between persons of the same sex.
LGBTQ2 travellers could also be discriminated against or detained based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics. They could be charged with indecent practices.
If you are convicted, you could face up to imprisonment.
LGBTQ2 travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to the Solomon Islands.
Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
Imports
There are strict regulations concerning the importation or exportation of items such as:
- firearms
- medication
- pornographic material
- World War II artifacts
Confirm the complete list of restricted and prohibited items before travelling.
Driving
Traffic drives on the left.
You must obtain a local driver’s licence to drive in the Solomon Islands.
Applying for a local licence - Inland Revenue Division of the Solomon Islands
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in the Solomon Islands.
If local authorities consider you a citizen of the Solomon Islands, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.
General information for travellers with dual citizenship
International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and the Solomon Islands.
If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in the Solomon Islands by an abducting parent:
- act as quickly as you can
- consult a lawyer in Canada and in the Solomon Islands to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
- report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.
If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.
Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.
Useful links
- International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
- Travelling with children
- Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
- Emergency Watch and Response Centre
Money
The currency of the Solomon Islands is the Solomon Islands dollar (SBD).
Major credit cards are accepted at hotels and tourist resorts. ATMs are available in Honiara.
Natural disasters and climate
Monsoons and cyclones
Monsoon rains and cyclones in the South Pacific usually occur from November to May. During this period, even small storms can quickly develop into major cyclones.
These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.
If you decide to travel to the Solomon Islands during the monsoon and cyclone season:
- know that you may expose yourself to serious safety risks
- be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
- stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
- carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
- follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
Useful links
Earthquakes and tsunamis
The Solomon Islands are in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes and tsunamis occur.
A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re in the Solomon Islands, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.
Useful links
- Earthquakes - What to Do?
- Tsunami alerts - U.S. Tsunami Warning System
Need help?
Local services
Emergency services
In case of emergency dial:
- Police: 999
- Medical emergencies: 911
- Fire: 988
- Search and rescue: 977
Consular assistance
There is no resident Canadian government office in the Solomon Islands. You can obtain consular assistance from the Australian High Commission, in Honiara, under the Canada-Australia Consular Services Sharing Agreement.
Sign up to receive email updates from the Australian government on situations and events that could affect your safety while in the Solomon Islands.
Smart Traveller - Australian travel advice
Honiara - High Commission of Australia
Canberra - High Commission of Canada
Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania,
Guam, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, New Caledonia, Northern Marianas, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu
For emergency consular assistance, call the Australian High Commission to the Solomon Islands, in Honiara, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
Disclaimer
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.