Solomon Islands Visa for Indians: Complete 2025 Application Guide

The Solomon Islands Immigration Division, operating under the Immigration Act 2012, maintains specific entry requirements for different nationalities. Indian citizens fall under the category of countries requiring prior approval from the Director of Immigration before entry.

Why Do Indians Need Prior Approval?

According to official Solomon Islands immigration policy, citizens from certain countries including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, China, and several others must obtain advance authorization. This policy is designed to ensure proper documentation and security screening before arrival.

What This Means for Indian Travelers

Unlike visa-exempt countries whose citizens can simply arrive and receive a visitor permit at Henderson International Airport in Honiara, Indian travelers must:

1. Contact the Immigration Division before travel
2. Submit required documentation for approval
3. Receive authorization before booking flights
4. Present approval documentation upon arrival

This advance approval process typically takes 3-5 business days but can vary depending on the completeness of your application and current processing volumes.

The Solomon Islands offers several visa categories depending on your purpose of visit. For Indian citizens, the most common types include:

1. Tourist Visa (Visitor Visa)

Purpose: Tourism, leisure, holidays, social visits
Validity: 30 days (single entry)
Maximum Stay: Up to 180 days with extensions
Work Rights: Not permitted
Cost: USD $150 (Administration Fee $50 + Application Fee $100)

This is the most popular visa type for Indian travelers visiting Solomon Islands for vacation, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family.

2. Business Visa

Purpose: Business meetings, conferences, trade activities
Validity: 30 days initially
Requirements: Letter of invitation from Solomon Islands company
Work Permit: Required if engaging in employment for more than 30 days
Cost: USD $150 (same as tourist visa)

Business travelers must provide additional documentation including business letters and proof of business activities.

3. Long-Term Visas

For extended stays beyond tourism, Solomon Islands offers:

• Work Visa: USD $300 (2 years validity)
• Student Visa: USD $150 (2 years validity)
• Resident Visa: USD $1,500 (5 years validity)
• Family Relationship Visa: USD $300 (2 years validity)

These require additional documentation and ministerial approvals.

Understanding the complete cost structure helps you budget accurately for your Solomon Islands trip.

Official Visa Fees

Payment Methods

• Online Payment: Credit/Debit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
• Bank Transfer: Direct transfer to Immigration Division account
• Cash: At Solomon Islands diplomatic missions (if applying in person)

Additional Costs to Consider

Beyond the official visa fees, budget for:

1. Document Preparation: ₹2,000-5,000
• Passport photos
• Document translations (if required)
• Notarization fees
• Courier charges
2. Travel to Embassy: ₹5,000-20,000
• If applying through Solomon Islands Embassy in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
• Flight tickets to PNG
• Accommodation in Port Moresby
3. Visa Service Agencies: ₹5,000-15,000
• Optional professional assistance
• Faster processing
• Document verification

Total Estimated Cost for Indian Citizens: ₹15,000-30,000 (approximately USD $180-360)

Follow this detailed process to successfully obtain your Solomon Islands visa as an Indian citizen:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before starting your application, collect all necessary documents:

• Valid passport (6+ months validity)
• Passport-size photographs (2 copies, white background)
• Completed visa application form
• Flight booking confirmations
• Hotel reservations or invitation letter
• Bank statements (last 6 months)
• Travel insurance (recommended)
• Employment letter
• Purpose of visit letter

Pro Tip: Make copies of all documents and keep both physical and digital versions.

Step 2: Contact Solomon Islands Immigration Division

Since Indian citizens require prior approval, you must contact the Immigration Division before applying:

Email: immigration@commerce.gov.sb
Phone: +677 22856 or +677 22179
Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Solomon Islands Time)

What to Include in Your Email:

Subject: Visa Application Request - Indian Citizen

Dear Director of Immigration,

I am an Indian citizen planning to visit Solomon Islands from [start date] to [end date] for [purpose - tourism/business]. 

I would like to request prior approval for a visitor's permit. Please find attached:

1. Copy of passport (main page with personal details)
2. Copy of confirmed flight itinerary
3. Hotel booking confirmation / Invitation letter
4. Purpose of visit statement

I kindly request your guidance on the application process and any additional requirements.

Thank you for your assistance.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Passport Number]

[Contact Email]

[Contact Phone Number]

Step 3: Wait for Initial Response

The Immigration Division will review your request and respond within 2-5 business days with:

• Confirmation of eligibility
• Additional document requirements (if any)
• Instructions for formal application submission
• Payment details

Step 4: Complete Online Application (eVisa Portal)

Once you receive approval to proceed, access the Solomon Islands eVisa portal:

1. Create Account: Register with your email address
2. Fill Application Form: Provide accurate personal information
3. Upload Documents: Submit all required documents in PDF/JPEG format
4. Review Information: Double-check all entries for accuracy
5. Submit Application: Click submit after final review

Important Fields to Complete Carefully:

• Full name (exactly as in passport)
• Passport number and expiry date
• Date of birth
• Nationality (Indian)
• Purpose of visit
• Intended dates of travel
• Accommodation details
• Emergency contact information

Step 5: Pay Visa Fees

After submitting your application, proceed to payment:

1. Administration Fee: USD $50
2. Application Fee: USD $100
3. Total: USD $150

Payment can be made via:

• Credit/Debit card (online)
• Bank transfer (details provided by Immigration Division)

Keep Payment Receipt: Save confirmation number and receipt for tracking.

Step 6: Track Application Status

Monitor your application progress:

• Online Portal: Log in to check status updates
• Email Notifications: Receive updates at registered email
• Phone Inquiry: Call +677 22856 for status updates

Application Statuses:

• Submitted
• Under Review
• Additional Documents Required
• Approved
• Rejected (with reasons)

Step 7: Receive Visa Approval

Upon approval, you will receive:

• eVisa Approval Letter (PDF via email)
• Visa Reference Number
• Validity Dates
• Entry Instructions

Action Required:

• Print 2 copies of approval letter
• Carry one copy in hand luggage
• Keep digital copy on phone/tablet

Step 8: Arrival in Solomon Islands

At Henderson International Airport, Honiara:

1. Immigration Counter: Present your passport and eVisa approval
2. Document Verification: Immigration officer will verify your documents
3. Visitor Permit Stamp: Receive 30-day visitor permit stamp in passport
4. Entry Granted: Proceed to baggage claim and customs

Documents to Present:

• Passport with 6+ months validity
• eVisa approval letter
• Return flight ticket
• Accommodation proof
• Sufficient funds proof

Understanding timelines helps you plan your trip effectively.

Processing Time Breakdown

Factors Affecting Processing Time:

1. Completeness of Application: Missing documents cause delays
2. Peak Season: December-February may have longer processing
3. Public Holidays: Solomon Islands and international holidays
4. Additional Verification: Background checks may extend timeline
5. Payment Confirmation: Delays in payment verification

Recommended Timeline:

• Apply at least 4-6 weeks before travel
• For peak season travel: 8-10 weeks in advance
• Emergency processing: Contact embassy directly (additional fees may apply)

Visa Validity Period

Initial Visa:

• Validity: 30 days from date of entry (single entry)
• Stay Duration: Up to 30 days initially
• Entry Window: Must enter within validity period stamped on approval

Maximum Stay:

• With Extensions: Up to 180 days (6 months) total
• Within 12 Months: Cannot exceed 90 days cumulative without special circumstances

Important Notes:

• Visa validity starts from date of entry, not date of issue
• Single entry means you cannot leave and re-enter on same visa
• Overstaying results in penalties and future entry restrictions

Use this comprehensive checklist to ensure you have everything needed:

Mandatory Documents ✓

•  Valid Passport
• Minimum 6 months validity from entry date
• At least 2 blank pages
• Good condition, no damage

•  Passport-Size Photographs
• 2 recent photos (taken within last 6 months)
• White background
• 35mm x 45mm size
• Clear face visibility, no glasses

•  Completed Visa Application Form
• Filled accurately in English
• Signed and dated
• All sections completed

• Flight Booking Confirmation

• Round-trip tickets (confirmed, not just hold)
• Clear entry and exit dates
• Passenger name matching passport

•  Accommodation Proof
• Hotel booking confirmation with dates, OR
• Invitation letter from host (if staying with friends/family)
• Host's address and contact details

•  Bank Statements
• Last 6 months statements
• Showing sufficient funds (minimum USD $3,000-5,000)
• Bank seal and signature

•  Travel Insurance (Highly Recommended)
• Coverage for medical emergencies
• Minimum USD $50,000 coverage
• Valid for entire stay duration

Supporting Documents ✓

•  Employment Letter
• On company letterhead
• Stating position, salary, leave approval
• Contact details of employer

•  Purpose of Visit Letter
• Detailed explanation of travel purpose
• Itinerary of activities
• Signed by applicant

•  Income Tax Returns
• Last 2 years ITR
• Showing financial stability

•  Property Documents (If Applicable)
• Property ownership papers
• Showing ties to India

•  Previous Travel History
• Copies of previous visas
• Passport stamps showing international travel
• Demonstrates travel credibility

Additional Documents (If Applicable) ✓

•  Business Documents (For Business Visa)
• Invitation letter from Solomon Islands company
• Business registration documents
• Meeting schedules

•  Sponsorship Letter (If Sponsored)
• Letter from sponsor in Solomon Islands
• Sponsor's ID proof
• Financial undertaking

•  Marriage Certificate (If Traveling with Spouse)
• Certified copy
• Translation if not in English

•  Birth Certificates (If Traveling with Children)
• For all minors
• Parental consent if traveling with one parent

•  Health Documents
• Measles vaccination certificate (if from affected countries)
• Yellow fever certificate (if from endemic areas)
• COVID-19 vaccination certificate (check current requirements)

Document Preparation Tips

1. Make Multiple Copies: Keep 3 sets - original, photocopy, digital scan
2. Organize in Folder: Use labeled dividers for easy access
3. Translation: Get non-English documents officially translated
4. Notarization: Notarize important documents like invitation letters
5. Digital Backup: Scan all documents and save in cloud storage
6. Quality Check: Ensure all photocopies are clear and readable

Indian citizens have two primary application methods:

Method 1: Online Application (eVisa Portal) - RECOMMENDED

Advantages:

• ✓ Apply from anywhere in India
• ✓ Faster processing (3-5 business days)
• ✓ Track application status online
• ✓ Receive approval via email
• ✓ No need to visit embassy
• ✓ Lower overall costs

Process:

1. Contact Immigration Division for prior approval
2. Receive instructions and portal access
3. Complete online application form
4. Upload required documents
5. Pay fees online
6. Receive eVisa approval via email

Best For: Most Indian travelers, especially those not near PNG

Method 2: Embassy Application (In-Person)

Location: Solomon Islands Embassy in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea

Note: Solomon Islands does not have an embassy in India. The nearest diplomatic mission is in Papua New Guinea.

Advantages:

• ✓ Personal assistance from embassy staff
• ✓ Immediate clarification of doubts
• ✓ Physical visa stamp (if preferred)

Disadvantages:

• ✗ Requires travel to Papua New Guinea
• ✗ Additional costs (flights, accommodation)
• ✗ Time-consuming
• ✗ May still require prior approval from Honiara

Process:

1. Contact Solomon Islands Embassy in Port Moresby
2. Schedule appointment
3. Travel to Papua New Guinea
4. Submit application in person
5. Pay fees
6. Collect visa (or receive via courier)

Embassy Contact:

• Address: Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
• Phone: Contact through Solomon Islands Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Email: simun@foreignaffairs-solomons.org

Best For: Travelers already in Papua New Guinea or requiring special visa types

Method 3: Visa Service Agencies

Advantages:

• ✓ Professional assistance
• ✓ Document verification
• ✓ Higher success rate
• ✓ Time-saving

Disadvantages:

• ✗ Additional service fees (₹5,000-15,000)
• ✗ Still requires prior approval process

Recommended Agencies:

• VisaHQ
• ItsEasy Passport & Visa Services
• Local travel agencies with visa services

Best For: First-time travelers, complex cases, or those preferring professional help

If you wish to stay longer than your initial 30-day visa allows, you can apply for an extension.

Extension Eligibility

• Initial 30-day visa can be extended up to 180 days total
• Extensions granted in increments (typically 30-60 days)
• Must apply before current visa expires
• Special circumstances required for extensions beyond 90 days

Extension Requirements

1. Valid Reason for Extension
• Tourism continuation
• Medical reasons
• Family circumstances
• Business requirements
2. Required Documents
• Passport with current visa
• Extension application form
• Recent passport-size photograph
• Proof of sufficient funds for extended stay
• Accommodation proof for additional period
• Return flight ticket (updated if necessary)
• Letter explaining reason for extension
3. Extension Fee
• Cost: USD $100 per extension
• Payment methods: Cash, bank transfer, credit card

How to Apply for Extension

Step 1: Visit Immigration Office

• Location: Immigration Division, Honiara, Solomon Islands
• Address: Ministry of Commerce, Industries, Labour and Immigration
• Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Step 2: Submit Application

• Collect extension application form
• Fill out completely and accurately
• Attach required documents
• Submit to immigration officer

Step 3: Pay Extension Fee

• Pay USD $100 at cashier
• Obtain payment receipt
• Attach receipt to application

Step 4: Wait for Processing

• Processing time: 2-5 business days
• May be asked for interview
• Additional documents may be requested

Step 5: Collect Extended Visa

• Receive notification when ready
• Collect passport with extension stamp
• Verify new expiry date

Important Extension Notes

• Apply Early: Submit extension request at least 7-10 days before current visa expires
• No Guarantee: Extensions are granted at discretion of Immigration Director
• Work Restrictions: Tourist visa extensions do not permit employment
• Multiple Extensions: Possible but require strong justification
• Maximum Stay: Total stay cannot exceed 180 days without special approval
• Overstay Penalties: Fines and deportation for overstaying without extension

Alternative: Visa Conversion

If your purpose of visit changes, you can convert your tourist visa to another type:

• Work Visa: If you secure employment
• Student Visa: If enrolling in educational institution
• Business Visa: If engaging in business activities

Conversion Process:

• Apply for new visa type
• Pay conversion fee (varies by visa type)
• Meet requirements of new visa category
• Surrender current visa

Understanding visa conditions helps you avoid violations and penalties.

Visitor Permit Conditions

When granted a visitor's permit, you must comply with these conditions:

1. Peaceful Conduct
• Must not behave in manner prejudicial to peace or good order
• Respect local laws and customs
• No involvement in political activities
2. Employment Restrictions
• Cannot engage in any business, profession, or employment without prior approval
• Exception: Business activities arising from normal employment outside Solomon Islands (up to 30 days)
• Work Permit Required: For any employment exceeding 30 days (obtain from Commissioner of Labour)
3. Religious Activities
• Cannot engage in religious vocations without Minister of Immigration approval
• Missionary work requires special permission
4. Research Activities
• Cannot conduct research without Minister of Immigration approval
• Research permit required from Education Minister/Department
5. Additional Conditions
• Director of Immigration may impose other specific conditions
• Must comply with all conditions stated on visa

Stay Duration Limits

• Initial Permit: 30 days from entry
• Maximum Aggregate Stay: 3 months (90 days) in any 12-month period
• Extended Stay: Up to additional 3 months (total 6 months) only with special circumstances
• Re-entry: Cannot leave and re-enter on same single-entry visa

Prohibited Activities

The following activities are strictly prohibited on tourist visa:

• ❌ Employment or paid work
• ❌ Business operations (beyond 30-day exception)
• ❌ Enrollment in educational institutions
• ❌ Religious missionary work
• ❌ Research or scientific studies
• ❌ Journalism or media activities (without permission)
• ❌ Political activities or campaigning

Penalties for Violations

Violating visa conditions can result in:

• Immediate Deportation: Removal from Solomon Islands
• Fines: Monetary penalties (varies by violation)
• Visa Cancellation: Current visa revoked
• Future Entry Ban: Blacklisted from future entry (1-10 years or permanent)
• Legal Action: Criminal charges for serious violations
• Detention: Held in immigration detention pending deportation

Overstay Penalties

Staying beyond visa expiry without extension:

• Fine: USD $50-200 per day of overstay
• Deportation: Forced removal at your expense
• Entry Ban: 1-5 years depending on overstay duration
• Criminal Record: May affect future visa applications worldwide

If You Overstay Accidentally:

• Report immediately to Immigration Division
• Explain circumstances
• Pay applicable fines
• Apply for emergency extension if possible
• Cooperate fully with authorities

Learn from others' experiences and avoid these frequent errors:

1. Assuming Visa on Arrival

Mistake: Many Indian travelers assume they can get visa on arrival like some other nationalities.

Reality: Indian citizens MUST obtain prior approval before travel.

Solution: Always contact Immigration Division before booking flights.

2. Incomplete Documentation

Mistake: Submitting application without all required documents.

Reality: Incomplete applications are rejected or delayed significantly.

Solution: Use the checklist provided in this guide and verify twice before submission.

3. Insufficient Funds Proof

Mistake: Showing minimal bank balance or recent large deposits.

Reality: Immigration officers look for consistent financial stability.

Solution: Maintain healthy bank balance for 3-6 months before application. Minimum USD $3,000-5,000 recommended.

4. One-Way Tickets

Mistake: Booking only arrival flight to save money initially.

Reality: Visa application requires confirmed round-trip tickets.

Solution: Book fully confirmed return tickets before applying. Use flexible tickets if uncertain about return date.

5. Last-Minute Applications

Mistake: Applying just 1-2 weeks before intended travel.

Reality: Processing takes 7-12 business days, plus potential delays.

Solution: Apply at least 4-6 weeks in advance, 8-10 weeks during peak season.

6. Incorrect Information

Mistake: Providing inaccurate dates, passport numbers, or personal details.

Reality: Even minor errors can lead to rejection or entry denial.

Solution: Double-check all information against passport. Have someone else review before submission.

7. Ignoring Prior Approval Requirement

Mistake: Applying directly through eVisa portal without contacting Immigration Division first.

Reality: Indian citizens need prior approval before formal application.

Solution: Always email immigration@commerce.gov.sb first and wait for response.

8. Expired Passport

Mistake: Applying with passport having less than 6 months validity.

Reality: Visa will be rejected if passport doesn't meet validity requirements.

Solution: Renew passport if it expires within 6 months of travel date.

9. Not Keeping Copies

Mistake: Carrying only original documents without copies.

Reality: If documents are lost, you have no backup proof.

Solution: Keep multiple copies (physical and digital) of all documents.

10. Overstaying Without Extension

Mistake: Staying beyond 30 days without applying for extension.

Reality: Overstaying results in heavy fines and deportation.

Solution: Apply for extension at least 7-10 days before visa expires.

11. Working on Tourist Visa

Mistake: Accepting paid work or business opportunities while on tourist visa.

Reality: Employment without work permit is illegal and grounds for deportation.

Solution: If work opportunity arises, apply for proper work visa and permit before starting.

12. Poor Quality Photos

Mistake: Submitting selfies, old photos, or photos with wrong specifications.

Reality: Application rejected for non-compliant photographs.

Solution: Get professional passport photos taken according to specifications (35mm x 45mm, white background, recent).

Contact Information and Resources 

Solomon Islands Immigration Division

Official Contact:

• Email: immigration@commerce.gov.sb
• Phone: +677 22856 / +677 22179
• Fax: +677 25084
• Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Solomon Islands Time, GMT+11)

Postal Address: Immigration Division
Ministry of Commerce, Industries, Labour and Immigration
P.O. Box G26
Honiara
Solomon Islands

Website: https://immigration.gov.sb

Solomon Islands Diplomatic Missions

Solomon Islands Permanent Mission to the United Nations (New York)

• Address: 800 Second Avenue, Suite 400L, New York, NY 10017-4709, USA
• Phone: +1 (212) 599-6192 / 6193
• Email: simun@foreignaffairs-solomons.org
• Website: https://www.un.int/solomonislands

Solomon Islands Embassy in Papua New Guinea

• Location: Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
• Contact: Through Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Email: simun@foreignaffairs-solomons.org

Indian Missions (For Assistance)

High Commission of India in Papua New Guinea

• Address: Section 201, Allotment 1, Waigani Drive, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
• Phone: +675 325 1179 / 325 3381
• Email: hoc.portmoresby@mea.gov.in
• Website: https://www.hciportmoresby.gov.in

Ministry of External Affairs, India

• Consular Services: https://www.mea.gov.in
• Helpline: +91-11-2301-2113 (24x7)
• Email: cpv.mea@gov.in

Emergency Contacts in Solomon Islands

Police Emergency: 999
Fire Emergency: 988
Ambulance: 911

Henderson International Airport:

• Phone: +677 36143
• Email: info@solomonairports.com.sb

Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau (Tourism Information):

• Phone: +677 22442
• Email: info@visitsolomons.com.sb
• Website: https://www.visitsolomons.com.sb

Useful Resources

Official Government Websites:

• Solomon Islands Immigration: https://immigration.gov.sb
• Solomon Islands Government Portal: https://solomons.gov.sb
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs: https://www.mfaet.gov.sb

Travel Information:

• Solomon Islands Tourism: https://www.visitsolomons.com.sb
• U.S. State Department Travel Advisory: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/SolomonIslands.html

Visa Service Providers:

• VisaHQ: https://www.visahq.com/solomon-islands/
• ItsEasy: https://www.itseasy.com/visa-expediting/solomon-islands/

Flight Booking:

• Solomon Airlines: https://www.flysolomons.com
• Virgin Australia: https://www.virginaustralia.com
• Fiji Airways: https://www.fijiairways.com

Time Zone Information

Solomon Islands Time: GMT+11 (no daylight saving)
Time Difference from India: Solomon Islands is 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of India

Example:

• When it's 12:00 PM (noon) in India
• It's 5:30 PM in Solomon Islands

Important for:

• Scheduling phone calls to Immigration Division
• Tracking application processing times
• Planning arrival times

Obtaining a Solomon Islands visa as an Indian citizen requires careful planning and adherence to the prior approval process. While the requirement for advance authorization adds an extra step compared to some other nationalities, following this comprehensive guide will help ensure a smooth application process.

Key Takeaways

1. Prior Approval is Mandatory: Indian citizens must contact the Immigration Division before applying
2. Apply Early: Start the process 4-6 weeks before intended travel
3. Complete Documentation: Ensure all required documents are prepared and accurate
4. Official Fees: USD $150 for initial 30-day tourist visa
5. Processing Time: 7-12 business days under normal circumstances
6. Extensions Available: Can extend up to 180 days total
7. No Work Permitted: Tourist visa does not allow employment
8. Single Entry: Cannot leave and re-enter on same visa

Final Tips for Success

• Be Proactive: Contact Immigration Division early and follow up regularly
• Be Accurate: Double-check all information before submission
• Be Prepared: Have all documents ready before starting application
• Be Patient: Processing takes time; avoid last-minute applications
• Be Compliant: Follow all visa conditions and regulations
• Be Respectful: Maintain professional communication with immigration officials

Why Visit Solomon Islands?

Despite the visa requirements, Solomon Islands offers Indian travelers:

• Pristine Beaches: Untouched tropical paradise
• World-Class Diving: WWII wrecks and coral reefs
• Rich Culture: Melanesian traditions and customs
• Adventure Activities: Hiking, snorkeling, fishing
• Warm Hospitality: Friendly local communities
• Off-the-Beaten-Path: Less crowded than other Pacific destinations

The extra effort to obtain a visa is well worth it for the unique experiences Solomon Islands offers.

Stay Updated

Visa policies and requirements can change. Always verify the latest information:

• Check official Immigration Division website before applying
• Contact Immigration Division directly for current requirements
• Subscribe to travel advisories from Indian Ministry of External Affairs
• Follow Solomon Islands tourism updates

Disclaimer: Visa regulations can change without notice. Always verify current requirements through official Slovakia government sources before applying. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Last Updated: December 2025

Content Accuracy: This comprehensive guide has been compiled based on extensive research of official government sources, verified travel information, and real experiences of Indian travellers who have successfully obtained Slovakia visas.

Expert Contributors: BTW Visas experts team with 15+ years of industry experience, with a 99% visa success rate, and have processed more than 4 lakh+ Visas.