The idyllic island nation of Fiji, famous for its crystal-clear waters, year-round tropical warmth and world renowned bula spirit has today removed the requirement for international travellers to undergo a Covid-19 RAT within 72 hours of arriving.
This is a significant step in the right direction as the country’s high vaccination rates, increasing uptake of booster doses, and the lessening caseload have allowed the Fiji government and Covid-19 Risk Mitigation Taskforce to continue relaxing public health measures in a safe and controlled way.
The country which has welcomed over 300,000 holidaymakers since December 1, 2021, will no longer require a proof of test bookings when travellers check-in at their departure airport. Those who already has a pre-booked and pre-paid test are still encouraged to complete this upon arrival, however, the Entry Test Fiji portal used to pre-book these tests will be discontinued.
Furthermore, Fiji has reduced the mandatory isolation period for those who test positive from seven days to five days. Although mandated post-arrival testing has been lifted, travellers are urged to self-monitor and test immediately if they develop any Covid-19 symptoms.
“This is another exciting step towards normalcy for tourism in Fiji,” says Brent Hill, CEO of Tourism Fiji.
“We welcomed a record number of 78,638 visitors in July, showing an 82% recovery from pre-pandemic levels. Now, with the removal of the required in-country test, travellers can continue enjoying our islands with even more peace of mind.”
Reducing the isolation period to five days is expected to greatly assist the ongoing recovery of Fiji’s tourism industry. With hotels reporting recent occupancy at pre-pandemic levels, they will now be able to free up inventory saved for isolation and take more bookings from holidaymakers around the globe.
“Our approach to safety is exemplary — we can see that in the growing tourism demand and low positivity amongst tourists, says Permanent Secretary for Tourism, Shaheen Ali. “Removing all testing requirements and reducing the isolation period further fuels our economic recovery and eases travel barriers.”
The requirements of being fully vaccinated and having travel insurance with Covid-19 coverage still remain until further notice. The Covid-19 Risk Mitigation Taskforce will continue to review Fiji’s entry requirements and Covid-19 safe measures, with a focus on fostering social and economic recovery, maintaining border and community surveillance, and supporting the mandate for community-wide protection through vaccinations.
Ideally located in the South Pacific, just a short 3-hour flight and in the same time zone, it’s easy to see why Fiji is such a popular destination among Kiwis. With 34 weekly flights from around Aotearoa, whether you fancy flopping on the beach and working your way down the cocktail list, checking into the resort spa, venturing out to the islands for an adventure, there’s something for everyone. Fiji and its 333 islands are ready to welcome you to the place where happiness finds you.
For more information, please visit www.fiji.travel/faq
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