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6 ways to enter

New Caledonia visas

New Caledonia transit visa

Many passengers can connect through an airport without a visa if they stay in the international transit area. Some passengers still need an airport transit visa.

Ways to get a New Caledonia transit visa

  1. Airport transit without a visa

    Transit without a visa

    Passengers who stay only in the international transit area, except categories required to hold an airport transit visa for European France.

  2. Airport transit visa

    Visa needed

    Passengers in the categories required to have an airport transit visa for European France.

  3. Visa-free crew transit

    Transit without a visa

    Airline and ship crew members can transit without a visa.

  4. Cruise visit with a qualifying visa or residence permit

    Transit without a visa

    Cruise passengers qualify if they hold a visa for any French territory or a residence permit for Andorra, Canada, Japan, Monaco, San Marino or the United States.

    Stay
    Up to 24 hours.

  6. Cruise transit while staying on board

    Transit without a visa

    Cruise passengers who do not leave the ship can transit without a visa.

Who needs it

Passengers in the same categories that need an airport transit visa for European France also need one here. Those categories are not listed.

Who doesn't

Other passengers staying in the international transit area, airline and ship crew members, and qualifying cruise passengers can transit without a visa.

Changing planes

Can you stay airside?
Yes, without a visa if you stay in the transit area
Leaving the airport
The airport transit exemption only covers the international transit area. To leave that area, you need a visa or an entry exemption that covers your visit.
Transit without a visa
Stay in the airport's international transit area and do not fall within a category that requires an airport transit visa for European France. Separate exemptions cover crew members and certain cruise passengers.

Good to know

  • The airport exemption only applies while you remain in the international transit area.
  • The stated 24-hour cruise limits do not set a general airport transit limit.
  • No general airport transit time limit is given.
  • Airport transit visa fees and processing times are not given.

Questions

Do I need a transit visa for New Caledonia?

Passengers in the same categories that need an airport transit visa for European France also need one here. Those categories are not listed. Other passengers staying in the international transit area, airline and ship crew members, and qualifying cruise passengers can transit without a visa.

What are the ways to get a transit visa for New Caledonia?

There are 6 options: Airport transit without a visa (transit without a visa); Airport transit visa (a visa from an embassy); Visa-free crew transit (transit without a visa); Cruise visit with a qualifying visa or residence permit (transit without a visa); Visa-free cruise visit for listed nationalities (no visa at all); Cruise transit while staying on board (transit without a visa).

Who can go to New Caledonia without a transit visa?

Citizens of the listed countries travelling by cruise ship qualify for a short visa-free visit.

Can I stay inside the airport in New Caledonia without a visa?

Yes, staying in the international transit area is allowed for most travellers. To leave the airport: The airport transit exemption only covers the international transit area. To leave that area, you need a visa or an entry exemption that covers your visit.

What rules do I have to follow on a New Caledonia transit visa?

The airport exemption only applies while you remain in the international transit area. The stated 24-hour cruise limits do not set a general airport transit limit.

Does my passport change whether I need a transit visa for New Caledonia?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the New Caledonia visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a transit visa for New Caledonia be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest New Caledonia transit visa rules?

On New Caledonia's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my transit visa once I am in New Caledonia?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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