Guide to Residency in Fiji

Obtaining a residency visa in Fiji is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Fiji gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Understand the Types of Residency Permits
  • Fiji offers different types of residency permits, including Work Permits, Investment Permits, Retirement Permits, and Dependent Permits. Each has its own requirements and conditions.
• Meet the Eligibility Requirements
  • Each type of permit has specific eligibility requirements. For example, to obtain a Work Permit, you must have a job offer from a local company. To obtain an Investment Permit, you must invest a certain amount of money in a business in Fiji.
• Gather Required Documents
  • The required documents will depend on the type of permit you are applying for, but may include:
    • Valid passport
    • Passport-sized photos
    • Police clearance certificate
    • Medical certificate
    • Proof of financial stability
    • Job offer letter or investment documents
• Apply for a Tax Identification Number (TIN)
  • Before you can apply for a residency permit, you must obtain a TIN from the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS).
  • Visit the FRCS website (https://frcs.org.fj/) and download the TIN application form.
  • Complete the form and submit it to the FRCS along with the required documents, such as a copy of your passport.
• Submit Your Residency Permit Application
  • Once you have gathered all the required documents and obtained your TIN, you can submit your residency permit application to the Department of Immigration in Fiji.
  • You can download the application form from the Department of Immigration website (https://immigration.gov.fj/).
  • Complete the form and submit it along with the required documents and the application fee.
• Wait for Approval
  • The processing time for residency permit applications varies depending on the type of permit and the volume of applications received by the Department of Immigration.
  • You can check the status of your application by contacting the Department of Immigration directly.
• Register with the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF)
  • If you are employed in Fiji, you must register with the FNPF within one month of starting work.
  • Visit the FNPF website (https://myfnpf.com.fj/) and download the registration form.
  • Complete the form and submit it to the FNPF along with the required documents, such as a copy of your passport and employment contract.
• Understand the Rights and Responsibilities of Residency Permit Holders
  • As a residency permit holder in Fiji, you have certain rights and responsibilities. For example, you have the right to live and work in Fiji, but you also have the responsibility to obey Fiji's laws and pay taxes.

Renewing Your Residency Permit

Residency permits in Fiji are typically valid for a specific period, such as one or two years. To renew your permit, you must submit a renewal application to the Department of Immigration before your current permit expires. The renewal process is similar to the initial application process and requires you to submit updated documents and pay a renewal fee.

Permanent Residency

If you wish to become a permanent resident of Fiji, you must meet certain criteria, such as having lived in Fiji for a certain number of years and demonstrating a commitment to the country. The application process for permanent residency is separate from the temporary residency permit process and requires you to submit additional documents and pay a separate application fee.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Fiji?

"In order to visit Fiji, travelers must obtain a valid visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, providing a valid passport, and paying the applicable visa fee. Depending on the purpose of the visit, travelers may be required to provide additional documents such as proof of financial means, a letter of invitation, or a return ticket. In order to obtain residency in Fiji, applicants must submit an application form and provide a valid passport, proof of financial means, and a police clearance certificate. Depending on the purpose of the residency, additional documents may be required. The application process may take several months to complete," commented one member living in Fiji.